bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sociodemographic Disparities in Tracheostomy Timing and Outcomes
Authors: Zheng Melissa , Wandell Grace M. , Maxin Anthony J. , Gomez‐Castillo Luis A. , Giliberto John P. , Bhatt Neel K.
Published: August 2023

Objective

Tracheostomies are commonly performed in critically ill patients requiring prolonged mechanical ventilation. Although early tracheostomy has been associated with improved outcomes, the reasons for delayed tracheostomy are complex. We examined the impact of sociodemographic factors on tracheostomy timing and outcomes.

Methods

Medical records were retrospectively reviewed of ventilator‐dependent adult patients who underwent tracheostomy from 2021 to 2022. Tracheostomy timing was defined as routine (<21 days) versus late (21 days or more). Sociodemographic variables were compared between cohorts using univariate and multivariate models. Secondary outcomes included hospital length of stay (LOS), decannulation, tracheostomy‐related complications, and inhospital mortality.

Results

One hundred forty‐two patients underwent tracheostomy after initial intubation: 74.7% routine (n = 106) and 25.4% late (n = 36). In a multivariate model adjusted for age, race, surgical service, tracheostomy technique, and time between consultation and surgery, non‐English speaking patients and women were more likely to receive a late tracheostomy compared with English speaking patients and men, respectively (odds ratio [OR] 3.18, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.03, 9.81, p < 0.05), (OR 3.15, 95% CI 1.18, 8.41, p < 0.05). Late tracheostomy was associated with longer median hospital LOS (62 vs. 52 days, p < 0.05). Tracheostomy timing did not significantly impact mortality, decannulation or tracheostomy‐related complications.

Conclusion

Despite an association between earlier tracheostomy and shorter LOS, non‐English speaking patients and female patients are more likely to receive a late tracheostomy. Standardized protocols for tracheostomy timing may address bias in the referral and execution of tracheostomy and reduce unnecessary hospital days.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 134:582–587, 2024
Cell‐Based Outer Vocal Fold Replacement Both Treats and Prevents Vocal Fold Scarring in Rabbits
Authors: Santuray Rodell , Schlegel Patrick , Zhang Zhaoyan , Reddy Neha , Alhiyari Yazeed , Long Jennifer L.
Published: August 2023

Objective

Numerous pharmacological and cell‐based treatments have shown promise in preventing vocal fold (VF) scarring when applied at the time of injury. A common clinical scenario, however, is the finding of mature scar impeding voicing. Many treatments are less effective in remodeling existing scar tissue. This objective of this study is to determine if a cell‐based outer vocal fold replacement (COVR) effectively restores VF function when applied to existing scar.

Methods

Eighteen rabbits were allocated to three groups: unilateral COVR implant at the time of cordectomy (acute COVR); unilateral cordectomy followed by COVR implant 2 months later (chronic COVR); and unilateral cordectomy followed by sham implant surgery 2 months later (chronic scar). Larynges were harvested 2 months after implant or sham surgery.

Results

All larynges in the COVR groups demonstrated human leukocyte antigen labeling on immunohistochemistry (IHC). COVR groups had increased hyaluronic acid content compared with normal. VF stiffness as measured by elastic moduli in acute COVR and chronic COVR were similar to their contralateral unoperated VF.

Conclusion

COVR implantation in both acutely injured and chronically scarred VF demonstrate persistence of implanted cells, restored tissue biomechanics, and increased hyaluronic acid content.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 134:764–772, 2024
Isolated Fracture of the Malleus: An Overlooked Cause of Conductive Hearing Loss?
Authors: Lovin Benjamin D. , Page Joshua Cody , Appelbaum Eric N. , Gorelik Daniel , Lin Kenny F. , Vrabec Jeffrey T.
Published: August 2023

Objective

To report the largest case series of isolated malleus fractures with systematic review to characterize the disease's presentation and natural history, and provide suggestions for management.

Data Sources

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library.

Review Methods

Retrospective cohort study was performed on 12 patients with isolated malleus fractures. History, physical exam, pre‐ and post‐treatment audiograms, and imaging were obtained. Systematic review of the literature was performed.

Results

Including the cases herein, 58 isolated malleus fractures were identified, the majority of which were published in the 21st century. Mean time to presentation after injury was 34.4 months. Most common etiology was external auditory canal (EAC) manipulation. Physical exam and imaging did not identify any abnormality at presentation in 16% and 21% of cases, respectively. The majority of fractures involved the manubrium. Air‐bone gap (ABG) at initial presentation ranged from 16 to 26 dB, and was greater at higher frequencies. Thirty‐six cases underwent surgery. ABG improvement was greater at all frequencies for those who underwent surgery. Final ABG was significantly less than initial ABG at nearly every frequency for those who underwent surgery (p < 0.05), while not at any frequency for those who were observed.

Conclusions

Isolated malleus fractures may occur more often than historical data suggests, and are perhaps underdiagnosed. Abrupt removal of a finger from the EAC with pain and hearing loss is nearly pathognomonic. Conductive hearing loss with ABG greater at higher frequencies is most often observed. Observation is unlikely to produce spontaneous improvements in hearing, while surgery demonstrates reliable decreases in ABG. Laryngoscope, 134:1032–1041, 2024
Management of Periodic Fever, Aphthous Stomatitis, Pharyngitis, Adenitis with Intracapsular Tonsillectomy
Authors: Ezeh Uche C. , Kahn Philip J. , April Max M.
Published: August 2023

Objective

This study aimed to present 2 children clinically diagnosed with periodic fever, aphthous stomatitis, pharyngitis, and adenitis (PFAPA) syndrome and treated with intracapsular tonsillectomy with adenoidectomy (ITA).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of 2 children who were referred for an otolaryngology consultation between 2019 and 2022 for surgical treatment of PFAPA syndrome. Both patients had symptoms strongly suggestive of PFAPA and were at risk for total tonsillectomy (TT) complications. ITA was performed using a microdebrider. Both patients were followed up postoperatively to assess for symptomatic resolution and complications.

Results

Two children exhibited recurrent febrile episodes prior to ITA. The procedure was efficacious in both patients, with neither experiencing postoperative complications or recurring PFAPA symptoms for over 1 year after surgery.

Conclusion

Our study reported on the use of ITA as a surgical treatment option for PFAPA. We showed that ITA eliminated febrile attacks and was safely performed without postoperative complications in 2 pediatric patients after 1‐year follow‐up. Future studies involving larger cohorts of PFAPA patients and lengthier follow‐ups will need to be conducted to further evaluate ITA as a surgical option. Laryngoscope, 134:1967–1969, 2024
Mapping soil organic matter and identifying potential controls in the farmland of Southern China: Integration of multi‐source data, machine learning and geostatistics
Authors: Hu Bifeng , Ni Hanjie , Xie Modian , Li Hongyi , Wen Yali , Chen Songchao , Zhou Yin , Teng Hongfen , Bourennane Hocine , Shi Zhou
Published: August 2023

Soil organic matter (SOM) plays a critical role in terrestrial ecosystem functioning and is closely related to many global issues like soil fertility, soil health and climate regulation. Therefore, obtaining accurate information on the spatial distribution of SOM and its potential controlling factors is of global interest. However, this remains a great challenge since SOM is affected by numerous natural and anthropogenic factors and usually showed strong heterogeneity. In this study, we collected a total of 16,580 surface soil (0–20 cm) samples from the farmland throughout Jiangxi Province. And the Random Forest (RF), Cubist and gradient‐boosted models were compared and used to define the factor which is most associated with SOM. Then the ordinary kriging (OK) and machine learning‐ordinary co‐kriging (ML‐COK) were used to map SOM. We found that on average, 30.86 g kg−1 SOM was present in farmland soil of Jiangxi Province. Anthropogenic activities strongly affected SOM level, with five of the top 10 most important factors are anthropogenic related. The straw return amount was proved to have the largest importance (31.46%) for modelling SOM and a significant (p < 0.001) positive relationship between SOM content and the amount of straw returned to farmland was detected. Additionally, returning straw improved crop production. Soil derived from the Quaternary Subred Sand has the highest SOM content (37.82 g kg−1). Crop rotation also improved SOM content and the rice‐bean rotation system has the highest SOM content (34.27 g kg−1). With the best performance, the RF algorithm (R2 = 0.49, RMSE = 6.77 g kg−1) was selected to identify the primary control of SOM and integrated with COK, which we termed as ML‐COK, to map the SOM in the farmland of Jiangxi Province. ML‐COK outperformed OK method for mapping the SOM in farmland of Jiangxi Province with R2 of 0.351 and Lin's concordance correlation coefficient of 0.549. Farmland distributed in the central part of the province had high SOM content. In contrast, farmland in the north, south and east parts had relatively low SOM. Our study offers new insight for mapping soil properties, identifying potential factors driving variation in SOM, and also provides valuable information for making more reasonable and environmentally friendly farmland management measures.
Plastics as Non‐Toxic Disruptors of Aquatic Ecosystems
Authors: Tanentzap Andrew J.
Published: August 2023

Plastics are receiving widespread attention as an environmental contaminant, but their role in disrupting the behavior and physiology of organisms remains neglected. Here, I highlight growing evidence that plastics have pervasive, non‐toxic effects in aquatic ecosystems, especially on feeding interactions. These effects ultimately have consequences for the flow of energy through food webs and the productivity of entire ecosystems. New research efforts are now needed to link synthetic polymers and their additive chemistries to food web interactions under field conditions. This knowledge could be used to strengthen regulatory risk assessments, similar to the process for other ecological‐disrupting compounds, such as those that interfere with hormone systems.
Visualizing electrochemical zinc deposition and the role of a polymer additive in the crystal growth mechanism
Authors: Tiétcha Gastelle F. , Klüppel Ingo , Kogler Matthias , Valtiner Markus , Mears Laura L. E.
Published: August 2023

Electrodeposition of metals is relevant to many research fields including catalysis, batteries, antifouling, and anticorrosion coatings. Compared with hot dip galvanizing, there is significant interest in less energy and material‐intense electroplating of zinc. At present, large‐scale electroplating mostly uses acidic zinc solutions, containing potentially toxic additives. Alkaline electroplating of zinc offers a route to using environment‐friendly green additives. Further to the previous elucidation of the mechanism by which the polyquarternium polymer (PQ) aids the deposition of negatively charged zincate, here the nature of the coating is explored. Zinc was deposited from an electrolyte including zincate and PQ, on gold model surfaces. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and low energy ion scattering have been used to characterize the layer and explore the crystal growth mechanism that the PQ changes and, hence, improves the coating quality. We have also used AFM of the PQ on negatively charged mica to provide further evidence for the growth mechanism interpretation. Our data demonstrate that the additive is crucial to steering the growth mechanism, offering routes to optimizing deposition.
Recent Progress in Robust Regenerated Soy Protein Film
Authors: Gu Weidong , Tan Yi , Pang Huiwen , Ye Qianqian , Li Xiaona , Li Jianzhang
Published: August 2023

This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the research progress on soy protein (SP) film. SP film has gained significant attention due to its natural, renewable, and biodegradable characteristics. The review begins by introducing the film formation mechanisms and preparation methods of SP film, including solution casting, dry‐film formation, and other techniques, and discusses the associated preparation conditions and processes. Subsequently, the review explores the structural features, plasticization modifications, mechanical properties, antimicrobial modifications, UV shielding properties, and conductivity of SP film. Lastly, the review summarizes the current challenges and development directions in SP film research. This includes improving the mechanical performance and stability of the film, exploring novel functionalization approaches, and enhancing the sustainability of the film. Through this review of SP film, the study aims to enhance the understanding of their potential in materials science and various applications while providing guidance and insights for future research and applications.
Chowla and Sarnak conjectures for Kloosterman sums
Authors: El Abdalaoui Houcein , Shparlinski Igor E. , Steiner Raphael S.
Published: August 2023

We formulate several analogs of the Chowla and Sarnak conjectures, which are widely known in the setting of the Möbius function, in the setting of Kloosterman sums. We then show that for Kloosterman sums, in some cases, these conjectures can be established unconditionally.
Aphid‐Inspired and Thermally‐Actuated Soft Gripper Using 3D Printing Technology
Authors: Lee Jihun , So Hongyun
Published: August 2023

Herein, a thermo‐actuated aphid‐inspired dry adhesive (TADA) that offers tunable and reversible adhesion is reported. It is easily fabricated through 3D printing using a polylactic acid (PLA) filament and silicone elastomer, avoiding the use of unfavorable methods for micro‐ and nanofabrication and unwanted particles for actuation. The tunable adhesive system mimics aphid biology to achieve adhesion switchability. Switching between adhesion states is enabled by the thermo‐actuated PLA, which has shape memory properties. Additionally, silicone elastomer enables adherence to flat substrates such as glass, silicon wafers, and acrylic plates. The detachment time of the TADA can be controlled by changing the printing layer height, which is a 3D‐printing parameter that results in a short detachment time when the printing layer height is small. The adhesion strength is measured by applying different preloads and varying the size of the adhesive area. The reversibility between the adhesion‐on and adhesion‐off states, revealing good repeatability with similar adhesion strengths is also demonstrated. The TADA has potential applications in transferring silicon wafers. In addition, it can be printed to fit a flat plate of any shape, enabling it to grip the plate stably.
Thermal/Blue Light Induced Cross‐Linking of Acrylic Coatings with Diazo Compounds
Authors: de Zwart Felix J. , Wolzak Lukas A. , Laan Petrus C. M. , Mathew Simon , Flapper Jitte , van den Berg Keimpe J. , Reek Joost N. H. , de Bruin Bas
Published: August 2023

The thermal curing of industrial coatings (e.g., car painting and metal coil coatings) is accompanied by a substantial energy consumption due to the intrinsically high temperatures required during the curing process. Therefore, the development of new photochemical curing processes—preferably using visible light—is in high demand. This work describes new diazo‐based cross‐linkers that can be used to photocure acrylic coatings using blue light. This work demonstrates that the structure of the tethered diazo compounds influences the cross‐linking efficiency, finding that side reactions are suppressed upon engineering greater molecular flexibility. Importantly, this work shows that these diazo compounds can be employed as either thermal or photochemical cross‐linkers, exhibiting identical crosslinking performances. The performance of diazo‐cross‐linked coatings is evaluated to reveal excellent water resistance and demonstrably similar material properties to UV‐cured acrylates. These studies pave the way for further usage of diazo‐functionalized cross‐linkers in the curing of paints and coatings.
Mesoscopic Simulation of Centrifugal Melt Electrospinning of PPESK
Authors: Guo Han , Chen Jia , Lv Xujin , Qu Xin , Zhang Baoyan , Peng Gongqiu , Liu Yong
Published: August 2023

Poly(aryl ether sulfone ketone) (PPESK) is an engineering plastic with high strength, good heat resistance, insulation, and chemical corrosion resistance. The properties of PPESK fiber prepared by centrifugal melt electrospinning can be improved, and the method is efficient and environmentally friendly. This article employs a systematic analysis to investigate the impact of process parameters on the jet formation process, jet motion, fiber diameter, fiber yield, and changes in molecular chain orientation of PPESK. The analysis uses dissipative particle dynamics simulation to reveal that PPESK fibers can attain a certain degree of refinement, and fiber yield can be increased with an appropriate increase in rotational speed, temperature, and electric field force. Moreover, for PPESK with different chain lengths, longer molecular chains impede the untwisting of the molecular chains within the fiber, weakening the fiber orientation, increasing fiber diameter, and resulting in a slower fiber yield increase. These simulation results provide theoretical guidance for preparing PPESK ultrafine fibers with the required performance, shortening the exploration process of actual spinning, and saving time and labor.
Anthropology of Deep Brain Stimulation; the 30th Anniversary of STN DBS in 2023
Authors: Hariz Marwan , Blomstedt Yulia , Blomstedt Patric , Hariz Gun‐Marie
Published: August 2023

Background

The year 2023 marks the 30th anniversary of deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the subthalamic nucleus (STN) for Parkinson’s disease (PD). This procedure prompted a universal interest in DBS for various brain disorders and resulted in a unique expansion of clinical and scientific collaboration between many disciplines, with impact on many aspects of society.

Objective

To study the anthropology of DBS, that is, its ethno‐geographic origins, its evolution, its impact on clinicians and scientists, and its influence on society at large.

Material and Methods

The authors scrutinized the geo‐ethnic origins of the pioneers of modern DBS, and they evaluated, based on the literature and on a long‐term praxis, the development of DBS and its impact on clinicians, on healthcare, and on society.

Results

Scientists and clinicians from various geo‐ethnic origins pioneered modern DBS, leading to worldwide spread of this procedure and to the establishment of large multidisciplinary teams in many centers. Neurologists became actively involved in surgery and took on new laborious tasks of programming ever more complicated DBS systems. Publications sky‐rocketed and the global spread of DBS impacted positively on several aspects of society, including healthcare, awareness of neurological diseases, interdisciplinary relations, conferences, patient organizations, unemployment, industry, etc.

Conclusions

STN DBS has boosted the field of deep brain electrotherapy for many neurological and psychiatric illnesses, and DBS has generated a global benefit on many aspects of society, well beyond its clinical benefits on symptoms of diseases. With the ever‐increasing indications for DBS, more positive global impact is expected.
Corrigendum to “Inverse scattering problem with Levinson formula for eigenparameter‐dependent discrete Sturm‐Liouville equation”
Authors: Koprubasi Turhan , Mohapatra R. N.
Published: August 2023

There are three oversights in the zeros of the Jost function in Lemma 3.3 (page 1469), in the Delta function in Lemma 3.4 (page 1471), and in the continuity of the scattering function at zero in Theorem 4.2 (page 1473). Therefore, we have corrected Lemma 3.3, Lemma 3.4, and Theorem 3.5 with their proofs and Section 4.
Existence of nontrivial solutions for a class of poly‐Laplacian system with mixed nonlinearity on graphs
Authors: Yu Xiaoli , Zhang Xingyong , Xie Junping , Zhang Xuechen
Published: August 2023

We investigate the existence of nontrivial solutions for a class of poly‐Laplacian nonlinear system with mixed nonlinearity term on a locally finite graph or a finite graph. By using the mountain pass theorem, we obtain some sufficient conditions about existence of a nontrivial solution. Our results are different from some known results even for the scalar equation on graph.
An analysis concerning to the existence of mild solution for Hilfer fractional neutral evolution system on infinite interval
Authors: Mohan Raja Marimuthu , Vijayakumar Velusamy , Veluvolu Kalyana Chakravarthy
Published: August 2023

In this article, we focus on the new class of neutral Hilfer fractional differential equations on infinite interval in Banach space. The results are obtained with the help of the theory of fractional calculus, mild solutions, the fixed point theorem, semigroup theory, and infinite interval. First, we introduce a mild solution for neutral Hilfer fractional differential equations. Then, we prove the existence of a mild solution for the neutral Hilfer fractional differential equations. Finally, an example is provided to illustrate the obtained results.
Evaluating bycatch avoidance in the U.S. Atlantic sea scallop Placopecten magellanicus fishery
Authors: Lowman Brooke A. , O'Keefe Catherine E. , Cadrin Steven X.
Published: August 2023

Objective

The effectiveness of bycatch avoidance programs relies on changes in fishing behavior in response to spatiotemporal information on bycatch patterns. A voluntary bycatch avoidance program in the U.S. sea scallop Placopecten magellanicus fishery designed to prevent triggering bycatch allocation of Yellowtail Flounder Limanda ferruginea was implemented and maintained concurrently with other management measures. Detecting bycatch avoidance behavior and relative effectiveness for bycatch mitigation presents an analytical challenge.

Methods

We evaluated effectiveness of the bycatch avoidance program over the course of 4 years based on fishing behavior relative to bycatch advisories. Using loglinear models to compare frequencies, we examined the relationship between bycatch reports from participating vessels and bycatch advisories throughout the year in each of the 4 years. We compared results from self-reported catch to data from a mandatory observer program for participating and nonparticipating vessels in the bycatch avoidance program.

Result

Significant associations between bycatch advisories and fishing locations indicated bycatch avoidance behavior, while accounting for the effect of sea scallop density on fishing location decisions. Evidence of avoidance behavior was stronger in earlier years of the program and varied spatially. Decreasing avoidance behavior coincided with revised bycatch management measures, which appear to have altered the incentives for bycatch avoidance.

Conclusion

We found differences in the fishing behavior of fishing captains who participated in the bycatch avoidance program when Yellowtail Flounder bycatch was perceived to threaten economic yield due to fishery closures. Bycatch mitigation program evaluations should consider the program objectives as well as incentives (and disincentives) in interpreting behavior.
Foray into the topology of poly‐bi‐[8]‐annulenylene
Authors: Muruganandam Varadharajan , Sajjan Manas , Kais Sabre
Published: August 2023

Analyzing phase transitions using the inherent geometrical attributes of a system has garnered enormous interest over the past few decades. The usual candidate often used for investigation is graphene—the most celebrated material among the family of tri‐coordinated graphed lattices. We show in this report that other inhabitants of the family demonstrate equally admirable structural and functional properties that at its core are controlled by their topology. Two interesting members of the family are cyclooctatrene (COT) and COT‐based polymer: poly‐bi‐[8]‐annulenylene, both in one and two dimensions that have been investigated by polymer chemists over a period of 50 years for its possible application in batteries exploiting its conducting properties. A single COT unit is demonstrated herein to exhibit topological solitons at sites of a broken bond similar to an open one‐dimensional Su–Schrieffer–Heeger (SSH) chain. We observe that poly‐bi‐[8]‐annulenylene in one dimension mimics two coupled SSH chains in the weak coupling limit, thereby showing the presence of topological edge modes. In the strong coupling limit, we investigate the different parameter values of our system for which we observe zero‐energy modes. Further, the application of an external magnetic field and its effects on the band flattening of the energy bands has also been studied. In two dimensions, poly‐bi‐[8]‐annulenylene forms a square‐octagon lattice which upon breaking time‐reversal symmetry goes into a topological phase forming noise‐resilient edge modes. We hope our analysis would pave the way for synthesizing such topological materials and exploiting their properties for promising applications in optoelectronics, photovoltaics, and renewable energy sources.

Key Points

We show in this paper tri‐coordinated lattice systems: cylooctatrene (COT) and COT‐based polymer: poly‐bi‐[8]‐annulenylene exhibit exotic topological properties.

Flat bands are generated upon application of tailored magnetic flux for poly‐bi‐[8]‐annulenylene in one dimension.

Insights from this paper open the possibility of using these polymers as an experimental ground to observe many flat‐band and topology‐related phenomena.
Ensuring reliability and cultural validity of the Indonesian version of the Quality Of Life Index for patients with cancer
Authors: Rimayanti Ummi Pratiwi , Mizuno Michiyo , Kadar Kusrini , Madjid Abdul , Sahraeny Sitti , Effendy Christantie , Setiyarini Sri , Mayers Thomas
Published: August 2023

The objective of this study was to translate the Ferrans and Powers Quality of Life Index (QLI) into the Indonesian language, considering its cultural and functional appropriateness, and to evaluate its psychometric properties by testing the reliability and validity. A committee approach was conducted to create the Indonesian version of the QLI (QLI‐Id) and cognitive interviewing with 15 patients with cancer was conducted to identify potential problems or errors in answering the QLI‐Id. A cross‐sectional descriptive study was carried out using 236 responses to the QLI‐Id questionnaire from patients with cancer; 62 of whom completed the same questionnaire twice within a 3‐week interval to verify stability reliability. Confirmatory factor analysis results supported construct validity with model fit statistics for the original single‐factor and four‐factor structure of the QLI (corresponding to the QLI's total score and four subscale scores, respectively) with some rearrangement of the items within each subscale. Reliability for the total QLI‐Id scale was supported by McDonald's Omega of 0.92 and the intraclass/intrasubject correlation coefficient at two time points of 0.86. The strong correlation between the QLI‐Id total and the Satisfaction with Life Scale scores and the overall health/QOL domain of the EORTC QLQ‐C30 (both r = 0.73) supported its construct validity. This study provides evidence for the reliability and validity of the QLI‐Id as an instrument to measure the impact of cancer on the overall QOL of Indonesian patients.
Association of Age and Frailty With 30‐Day Outcomes Among Patients Undergoing Oral Cavity Cancer Surgery
Authors: Boyi Trinithas , Williams Lauren C. , Kafle Samipya , Roche Ansley M. , Judson Benjamin L.
Published: August 2023

Objective

To evaluate the impact of age and frailty on 30‐day outcomes following surgery for oral squamous cavity carcinoma (OSCC).

Study Design

Retrospective cross‐sectional analysis.

Setting

American College of Surgeons' National Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database.

Methods

Patients who underwent OSCC resection were queried via NSQIP (2015‐2020). Cases were stratified by age (18‐65, 65‐75, and older than 75) as well as by modified frailty index scores (mFI 0, mFI 1, and mFI 2+) for comparative analyses. Univariate and multivariable analyses were conducted to examine demographics, perioperative outcomes, and 30‐day postoperative adverse events.

Results

A total of 3238 patients who underwent OSCC surgery were identified and categorized as nongeriatric (“NGA,” age 18‐65), younger geriatric (“YGA,” age 65‐75), and older geriatric (“OGA,” age >75) adults. Compared to NGA, geriatric patients had higher the American Society of Anesthesiologists classification, higher modified frailty index scores, and more comorbidities such as hypertension, congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive disease, and diabetes (p < .001). YGAs and OGAs were also less likely to undergo neck dissection (p < .001), composite resection (p = .006), and free flap reconstruction compared to NGAs (p < .001). When controlling for confounders, age was not independently associated with an increased risk of poor outcomes. On the other hand, frailty was found to be independently associated with a higher risk of adverse events (odds ratio: 1.40 [1.15‐1.70], p < .001 for mFI 1, odds ratio: 1.45 [1.04‐2.02], p = .027 for mFI 2+).

Conclusion

A higher mFI score, not older age, is associated with an increased risk of 30‐day complications following OSCC surgery.
Transoral Laser‐Assisted Infrahyoid Supraglottic Laryngectomy for Selected Patients With Supraglottic Cancer
Authors: Roh Jong‐Lyel
Published: August 2023

Supraglottic laryngectomy has evolved from open to transoral endoscopic approaches with advancements in surgical techniques and instruments such as lasers, endoscopes, ultrasonic devices, and robotics. Transoral laser‐assisted microsurgery has emerged as an effective treatment option, offering faster functional recovery and serving as an alternative to partial laryngectomy or non‐surgical therapies. Traditional endoscopic supraglottic laryngectomy involves resection of both suprahyoid and infrahyoid supraglottic structures. However, in cases where the tumor is limited to the infrahyoid epiglottis, a new technique known as transoral laser‐assisted infrahyoid supraglottic laryngectomy allows for tumor removal while preserving the suprahyoid epiglottis, aryepiglottic folds, and vallecula, ensuring optimal preservation of laryngopharyngeal function. This procedure enables patients to swiftly return to their daily routines with minimal complications. This article discusses the surgical technique, potential indications, and advantages and disadvantages of the new approach for infrahyoid epiglottic cancer.
Nonopioid Versus Opioid Analgesics After Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery: A Systematic Review
Authors: Moon Peter K. , Wei Eric X. , Hamid Marzan S. , Borghi John A. , Megwalu Uchechukwu C.
Published: August 2023

Objective

To determine whether nonopioid analgesic regimens, taken after discharge for thyroid and parathyroid surgery have noninferior pain outcomes in comparison to opioid analgesic regimens. Secondarily, we sought to determine if nonopioid analgesic regimens decrease the number of opioid medications taken after thyroid and parathyroid surgery, and to assess adverse events associated with opioid versus nonopioid regimens.

Data sources

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane.

Review Methods

A comprehensive search of the literature was performed according to the PRISMA guidelines, and identified 1299 nonduplicate articles for initial review of which 2 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were identified as meeting all eligibility criteria. Meta‐analysis was not conducted due to heterogeneity in the data and statistical analyses.

Results

Both RCTs included in this systematic review found no significant differences in postoperative pain scores between individuals discharged with a nonopioid only analgesic regimen compared to analgesic regimen that included oral opioid medications. One study reported significantly increased number of postoperative calls related specifically to pain in the nonopioid arm compared to the opioid arm (15.6% vs. 3.2%, P = .045).

Conclusion

This systematic review of RCTs revealed a limited number of studies examining nonopioid versus opioid postoperative pain medications among adults who undergo thyroid and parathyroid surgery. Among the 2 RCTs on this topic, there is a shared finding that nonopioid analgesic regimens are noninferior to opioid analgesic regimens in managing postoperative pain after thyroid and parathyroid surgery, supporting the use of nonopioid pain regimens given the risk of opioid dependence associated with prescription opioid medications.
Large‐scale human celebrations increase global light pollution
Authors: Ramírez Francisco , Cordón Yago , García Diego , Rodríguez Airam , Coll Marta , Davis Lloyd S. , Chiaradia Andre , Carrasco Josep L.
Published: August 2023

Culturally dependent human social behaviours involving artificial light usage can potentially affect light pollution patterns and thereby impact the night‐time ecology in populated areas, although to date this has not been examined globally.

By analysing continuous (monthly), highly resolved, spatially explicit data on global night lights (Visible and Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite–Day/Night Band‐VIIRS‐DNB; 2014–2019) with circular statistical techniques, we evaluated whether macro‐cultural activities involving social aggregations and the use of artificial lights shape annual lighting patterns globally.

Scheduled routines associated with cultural‐specific festivities appear to be important drivers of observed seasonal patterns in urban night‐time lights. For instance, the display of Christmas lights between Christmas and Epiphany Day celebrations (December–January) coincides with the annual peak in urban night‐time light intensity in Christian countries. Analogously, night celebrations during the Holy Month of Ramadam (from May to July) or the month‐long period of Karthika Masam (from October to November) fits with annual night light peaks in Muslim and Hindu countries. Annual peaks of urban light intensity in China and Vietnam also match with Chinese and Vietnamese (Tê't) New Year celebrations (January–February). In contrast, predominantly Buddhist countries, which do not have such prominent and prolonged celebrations involving artificial lights, show a relatively uniform distribution of night light peaks throughout the annual cycle.

Social behaviour and sociocultural contexts help explain how people modify the global nightscape and contribute to light pollution globally. Understanding the cultural contexts responsible for peaks in artificial light usage is an important first step if humans are to mitigate any deleterious effects associated with global increases in night‐time light pollution.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Impedance matching optimization of hierarchical carbon fiber@MoS2@PANI nanocomposite with core‐sheath structure for achieving excellent microwave absorption
Authors: Hu Wei , Zhou Meng , Fu Heqing
Published: August 2023

Carbon fiber (CF) has been extensively used in the research of microwave absorption owning to its excellent performance, but it also faces a series of problems such as impedance mismatch and low absorption intensity. The core‐sheath microstructure with CF as the inner core is constructed to solve the above issues by the introduction of other sheath layers. In this work, the MoS2 sheath and polyaniline (PANI) sheath are successively introduced into the CF matrix to obtain a hierarchical CF@MoS2@PANI nanocomposite with core‐sheath structure through a straightforward hydrothermal method and in‐situ polymerization. The obtained CF@MoS2@PANI nanocomposite exhibit the minimum reflection loss value of −42.23 dB at 10.11 GHz while the thickness is 2.5 mm, much higher than those of pure CF (below −10 dB) and CF@MoS2 nanocomposite (−25.60 dB). Moreover, the distinctive hierarchical core‐sheath structure contributes to providing more active sites, prolonging the transmission path of electromagnetic waves, and forming heterogeneous interfaces. Consequently, the electromagnetic wave attenuation mechanism of CF@MoS2@PANI nanocomposite is attributed to a synergistic effect of conductive loss, multiple reflection/scattering, dipole polarization, and interface polarization. This work offers an effective and promising strategy to design a three‐dimensional hierarchical core‐sheath microstructure for the development of composite absorbers.
An anti‐abrasion sandwich structured membrane for highly efficient oil/water separation
Authors: Xiao Qian‐Ru , Sun Si
Published: August 2023

Animal oils would not only pollute the water but also block the sewer. Using hydrophilic membrane is an effective approach for oil/water separation. However, abrasion would cause the damage of the membrane and shorten their service life. In this work, we prepared a sandwich structured oil/water separation membrane (SSM) with two layers of cotton fabric and a core layer of PAM modified stainless‐steel mesh via a cost‐effective and facile process. The as‐prepared membrane can selectively separate water from oil/water mixtures with high efficiency, high flux (beyond 6000 L m−2 h−1), and good reusability. Moreover, as compared with hydrogel coated mesh, the SSM exhibited good abrasion resistance, which would effectively improve the usability in real scenarios. More importantly, the SSM has successfully blocked the oil in a simulated sewer and a real sewer in the kitchen, which will help prevent sewer blockage.
Integrated longitudinal circulating tumor DNA profiling predicts immunotherapy response of metastatic urothelial carcinoma in the POLARIS‐03 trial
Authors: Zang Jingyu , Zhang Ruiyun , Jin Di , Xie Feng , Shahatiaili Akezhouli , Wu Guangyu , Zhang Yue , Zhao Zhixin , Du Pan , Jia Shidong , Chen Haige , Zhuang Guanglei
Published: August 2023

Non‐invasive biomarkers for immunotherapy response remain a compelling unmet medical need. POLARIS‐03 is a multicenter phase II trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of toripalimab (anti‐programmed cell death 1) in refractory metastatic urothelial carcinoma (mUC). We assessed the predictive utility of longitudinal circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) analysis from a single‐institution biomarker cohort. Twenty‐seven mUC patients receiving toripalimab (3 mg/kg Q2W) at Ren Ji Hospital were enrolled. Serial plasma specimens were obtained at baseline and then every two cycles during treatment. The 600‐gene panel (PredicineATLAS™) liquid biopsy assay was applied to probe somatic variants and cancer cell fraction (CCF). Low‐pass whole genome sequencing was used to determine the copy number abnormality (CNA) score. Across the entire cohort, we observed different degrees of concordance between somatic aberrations detected by ctDNA and those inferred by matched tumor samples. Although the baseline CCF or CNA had limited predictive value, early ctDNA response at week 8 was associated with toripalimab efficacy and prolonged patient survival. Integrating CCF and CNA decrease achieved a superior accuracy of 90.5% in classifying responders and non‐responders and predicted long‐term benefit from toripalimab. Dynamic changes in the CCF and CNA in blood exquisitely reflected radiographic assessment of malignant lesions, including those with FGFR3–TACC3 gene fusion or microsatellite instability. This study demonstrates the feasibility and effectiveness of integrated longitudinal ctDNA profiling as a potential biomarker in mUC patients undergoing immunotherapy and supports further clinical evaluation of minimally invasive liquid biopsy assays for treatment stratification and therapy monitoring. © 2023 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Improving quality of pediatric onco‐critical care: A 2‐year experience using PROACTIVE at a cancer center in Jordan
Authors: Abutineh Farris , Zebin Zebin Al , Obeidat Sakher , Kafisheh Dina , Sakaan Firas M. , Puerto‐Torres Maria , Agulnik Asya , Arias Anita V.
Published: August 2023

PROACTIVE (PediatRic Oncology cApaCity Assessment Tool for IntensiVe CarE) is a consensus‐derived tool that evaluates pediatric onco‐critical care (POCC) services and identifies gaps amenable to improvement. King Hussein Cancer Center (KHCC), an oncology hospital in Jordan, completed PROACTIVE in 2021 and 2022. We evaluated PROACTIVE's ability to identify gaps and improve POCC services at KHCC by analyzing score changes and interviewing site leaders to understand mechanisms of improvement. Results identified three types of outcomes: direct (e.g., improved multidisciplinary communication), indirect (e.g., guidelines implementation), and other outcomes unrelated to PROACTIVE (e.g., funding mechanisms). PROACTIVE can assist institutions strengthen and monitor POCC services over time.
Enhanced proton conductivity of SPEEK membranes by constructing hydrogen bond network through doping ionic liquid and graphene oxide
Authors: Lv Xueyan , Qu Shuguo , Sun Lijun , Ding Luyang , Duan Jihai , Wang Weiwen
Published: August 2023

So as to improve proton conductivity at medium temperatures while reducing the loss of ionic liquids (ILs), this article fabricated a series of hybrid membranes with sulfonated poly (ether ether ketone) (SPEEK) as their base material, 1‐allyl‐3‐methylimidazolium chloride ([AMIM][Cl]) as their primary proton conductor, and graphene oxide (GO) as their filler. The characterization results showed that the –SO3H groups of SPEEK formed acid–base pairs with the imidazole ring of [AMIM][Cl] at the interface where electrostatic attraction inhibited the main‐chain migration of the SPEEK. At the same time, the large hydrogen bond network formed between [AMIM][Cl], GO and SPEEK provided more jump sites for proton transfer. Proton conduction of the prepared membranes was enhanced by way of low potential energy barriers. At 120°C, SPEEK/IL/GO‐2% exhibited a proton conductivity of 21.35 mS/cm, and the IL loss rate was 20.17%. The characterization results demonstrated that the prepared SPEEK/IL/GO composite membranes had excellent physicochemical properties, dimensional stability, high proton conductivity, and low IL loss, which were expected to be used in practical conditions at medium temperature.

Highlights

Large hydrogen bonding network provides additional proton hopping sites.

Physical cross‐linking limits the leaching of ionic liquid.

SPEEK/IL/GO‐2% membrane achieves a conductivity of 21.35 mS/cm at 120°C.
Phosphorus‐containing hyperbranched polysiloxanes intercalated graphene oxide and their flame retardant effect on epoxy resin
Authors: Zhang Zhongzhou , Yin Qichen , Liu Yuhong
Published: August 2023

Intrinsic flammability significantly impedes practical applications of epoxy (EP), despite many merits. Intercalation‐functionalized graphene oxide (GO) has shown excellent performance in flame retardancy studies of polymers, but research investigating the effect of layer spacing on the flame‐retardant performance of polymers is still lacking so far. Therefore, three GO flame retardants with different layer spacing were prepared to flame retardant EP. When the layer spacing of GO is 1.09 nm, the heat and smoke release from EP composites is effectively suppressed. This is attributed to the barrier effect and maze effect of GO as well as the synergistic effect between the intercalator and GO. Analysis shows that the layer spacing of GO affects the flame retardancy of the composite by influencing the formation of protective char layer.
Autonomic dysfunction in dementia with Lewy bodies: Focusing on cardiovascular and respiratory dysfunction
Authors: Mizukami Katsuyoshi
Published: August 2023

Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) is the second most common cause of dementia after Alzheimer's disease. The disease is characterized by many Lewy bodies appearing in the patient's cerebrum. DLB frequently presents with a variety of autonomic symptoms from the early or prodromal stages of the disease, and these are listed as supportive features in the diagnostic criteria. As several useful assessment methods for evaluating autonomic function in DLB have been reported, this review will focus on cardiovascular and respiratory dysfunction and its assessments. Cardiovascular disorders, such as orthostatic hypotension and abnormal heart rate variability, have been reported in DLB patients. Decreased myocardial uptake by metaiodobenzylguanidine myocardial scintigraphy has been added as an indicative biomarker for DLB in the 2017 revision of the diagnostic criteria. We have reported reduced ventilatory response to hypercapnia, abnormal respiratory rhythm, and high frequency of sleep‐disordered breathing as abnormalities of the respiratory regulatory system associated with DLB. Since autonomic dysfunction is highly prevalent in DLB from the early or prodromal phase of the disease and is associated with reduced activities of daily living and quality of life, the evaluation of autonomic dysfunction is also useful in the differential diagnosis of DLB from Alzheimer's disease. There are fewer studies on the respiratory regulatory system than on the cardiovascular system, thus further research is needed to explore its role in DLB.
Prenatal diagnosis of polycystic kidney caused by biallelic hypomorphic variants in the PKD1 gene
Authors: Zheng Yu , Wong Lo , Kwan Angel Hoi Wan , Dong Zirui , Kwok Ka Yin , Choy Kwong Wai , Dai Hongzheng , Cao Ye
Published: August 2023

Heterozygous loss‐of‐function variants in the PKD1 gene are commonly associated with adult‐onset autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), where the formation of renal cysts depends on the dosage of the PKD1 gene. Biallelic null PKD1 variants are not viable, but biallelic hypomorphic variants could lead to early‐onset PKD. We report a non‐consanguineous Chinese family with recurrent fetal polycystic kidney and negative findings in the coding region of the PKHD1 gene or chromosomal microarray analysis. Trio exome analysis revealed compound heterozygous variants of uncertain significance in the PKD1 gene in the index pregnancy: a novel paternally inherited c.7863 + 5G > C and a maternally inherited c.9739C > T, p.(Arg3247Cys). Segregation analysis through long‐range PCR followed by nested PCR and Sanger sequencing confirmed another affected fetus had both variants, while the other two normal siblings and the parents carried either variant. Thus, these two variants, both of which were hypomorphic as opposed to null variants, co‐segregated with prenatal onset polycystic kidney disease in this family. Functional studies are needed to further determine the impact of these two variants. Our findings highlight the biallelic inheritance of hypomorphic PKD1 variants causing prenatal onset polycystic kidney disease, which provides a better understanding of phenotype‐genotype correlation and valuable information for reproductive counseling.