bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soy Lecithin in High‐Fat Diets Exerts Dual Effects on Adipose Tissue Versus Ileum
Authors: Buisson Charline , Leuzy Valentin , Loizon Emmanuelle , Meugnier Emmanuelle , Monnoye Magali , Philippe Catherine , Gérard Philippe , Michalski Marie‐Caroline , Laugerette Fabienne
Published: January 2023

Scope

Lipopolysaccharides and their transporters, LBP and sCD14, are involved in systemic inflammation following a high‐fat diet. Natural emulsifiers such as soy lecithin, rich in soybean polar lipids (SPL), are often used by the food industry but little is known about effects of associating SPL with different oils.

Methods and results

Thus, this study investigates the effects of 4 weeks feeding of palm (P) or rapeseed (R) oil‐enriched diets with or without SPL in mice, on white adipose tissue (WAT) inflammation, on ileum permeability, and on microbiota composition. When SPL are associated with rapeseed oil, a greater gene expression of leptin and inflammation in WAT is observed compared to P‐SPL. In ileum, R‐SPL group results in a lower expression of TLR4, IAP that detoxify bacterial LPS and tight junction proteins than R group. In turn, the gene expression of Reg3β and Reg3γ, which have antimicrobial activity, is higher in ileum of R‐SPL group than in R group. SPL in rapeseed oil increases specific bacterial species belonging to Lachnospiraceae, Alistipes, and Bacteroidales.

Conclusion

The incorporation of SPL in a diet with rapeseed oil exerts differential effect on WAT and ileum, with respectively an inflammation of WAT and an antimicrobial activity in ileum, associated with specific microbiota changes.
Luteolin Protects Against Obese Sarcopenia in Mice with High‐Fat Diet‐Induced Obesity by Ameliorating Inflammation and Protein Degradation in Muscles
Authors: Kim Ji‐Won , Shin Su‐Kyung , Kwon Eun‐Young
Published: January 2023

Scope

Although sarcopenia is mainly caused by aging, sarcopenia due to obesity has become an emerging issue given the increase in obesity among people of various ages. There are studies on obesity or sarcopenia, our understanding of obesity‐mediated sarcopenia is insufficient. Luteolin (LU) has exhibited antiobesity effects, but no studies have investigated the LU effects on antisarcopenia. This study therefore investigated the effects of LU on obese sarcopenia in mice with high‐fat diet (HFD)‐induced obesity.

Methods and results

To evaluate its inhibitory efficacy against obese sarcopenia, 5‐week‐old mice are fed an HFD supplemented with LU for 20 weeks. LU exerts suppressive effects on obesity, inflammation, and protein degradation in the HFD‐fed obese mice. It also inhibits lipid infiltration into the muscle and decreases p38 activity and the mRNA expression of inflammatory factors, including TNF‐α, Tlr2, Tlr4, MCP1, and MMP2, in the muscle. The suppression of muscle inflammation by LU leads to the inhibition of myostatin, FoxO, atrogin, and MuRF expression. These effects of LU affect inhibition of protein degradation and improvement of muscle function.

Conclusion

Here, it demonstrates that LU's antiobesity and antiinflammatory functionality affect inhibition of muscle protein degradation, and consequently, these interactions by LU exerts a protective effect against obese sarcopenia.
A stabilized mixed three‐field formulation for stress accurate analysis including the incompressible limit in finite strain solid dynamics
Authors: Castañar Inocencio , Codina Ramon , Baiges Joan
Published: January 2023

In this work a new methodology for finite strain solid dynamics problems for stress accurate analysis including the incompressible limit is presented. In previous works, the authors have presented the stabilized mixed displacement/pressure formulation to deal with the incompressibility constraint in finite strain solid dynamics. To this end, the momentum equation is complemented with a constitutive law for the pressure which emerges from the deviatoric/volumetric decomposition of the strain energy function for any hyperelastic material model. The incompressible limit is attained automatically depending on the material bulk modulus. This work exploits the concept of mixed methods to formulate stable displacement/pressure/deviatoric stress finite elements. The final goal is to design a finite element technology able to tackle simultaneously problems which may involve incompressible behavior together with a high degree of accuracy of the stress field. The variational multi‐scale stabilization technique and, in particular, the orthogonal subgrid scale method allows the use of equal‐order interpolations. These stabilization procedures lead to discrete problems which are fully stable, free of volumetric locking, stress oscillations and pressure fluctuations. Numerical benchmarks show that the results obtained compare very favorably with those obtained with the corresponding stabilized mixed displacement/pressure formulation.
Systematic Review and Meta‐analysis on the Incidence of Level‐Specific Cervical Nodal Metastasis in Primary Parotid Malignancies
Authors: Ho Joyce Pui Kiu , Mair Manish , Noor Anthony , Fuzi Jordan , Giles Mitchell , Ludbrook Isabella , Hoffman Gary , Winters Ryan , Cope Daron , Eisenberg Robert
Published: January 2023

Objective

In primary parotid gland malignancies, the incidence of level‐specific cervical lymph node metastasis in clinically node‐positive necks remains unclear. This study aimed to determine the incidence of level‐specific cervical node metastasis in clinically node‐negative (cN0) and node‐positive (cN+) patients who presented with primary parotid malignancies.

Data Sources

Electronic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed, Cochrane).

Review Methods

Random‐effects meta‐analysis was used to calculate pooled estimate incidence of level‐specific nodal metastasis for parotid malignancies with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Subgroup analyses of cN0 and cN+ were performed.

Results

Thirteen publications consisting of 818 patients were included. The overall incidence of cervical nodal involvement in all neck dissections was 47% (95% CI, 31%‐63%). Among those who were cN+, the incidence of nodal positivity was 89% (95% CI, 75%‐98%). Those who were cN0 had an incidence of 32% (95% CI, 14%‐53%). In cN+ patients, the incidence of nodal metastasis was high at all levels (level I 33%, level II 73%, level III 48%, level IV 39%, and level V 37%). In cN0 patients, the incidence of nodal metastasis was highest at levels II (28%) and III (11%).

Conclusion

For primary parotid malignancies, the incidence of occult metastases was 32% compared to 89% in a clinically positive neck. It is recommended that individuals with a primary parotid malignancy requiring elective treatment of the neck have a selective neck dissection which involves levels II to III, with the inclusion of level IV based on clinical judgment. Those undergoing a therapeutic neck dissection should undergo a comprehensive neck dissection (levels I‐V).
Feasibility and Cost of Telehealth Head and Neck Cancer Survivorship Care: A Systematic Review
Authors: De Ravin Emma , Armache Maria , Campbell Frank , Rising Kristin L. , Worster Brooke , Handley Nathan R. , Fundakowski Christopher E. , Cognetti David M. , Mady Leila J.
Published: January 2023

Objective

Evaluate the feasibility and cost‐effectiveness of telehealth head and neck cancer (HNC) survivorship care.

Data Sources

Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL.

Review Methods

A systematic search for peer‐reviewed feasibility studies on telehealth models for HNC survivorship care published between 2005 and 2021 was conducted using the terms “head and neck cancer” and “telehealth” and their synonyms. Inclusion criteria were studies on telehealth survivorship program interventions for HNC patients with quantitative feasibility outcome measures (eg, enrollment, retention, attrition/dropout rate, adherence/task completion rate, patient satisfaction, cost).

Results

Thirty‐eight studies out of 1557 identified met inclusion criteria and were included for analysis. Feasibility outcomes evaluated were enrollment and attrition rates, adherence/task completion rates, patient satisfaction, and user feedback surveys in different survivorship domains. Patient enrollment ranged from 20.8% to 85.7%, while attrition ranged from 7% to 47.7%. Overall, adherence was 30.2% higher in the intervention group than in the control group (46.8% vs 16.6%). Studies with cost analysis found telehealth models of care to be statistically significantly less expensive and more cost‐efficient than the standard model of care, with a $642.30 saving per patient (n = 3). Telehealth models also substantially reduced work time saving per visit (on average, 7 days per visit).

Conclusion

While telehealth survivorship programs are feasible and cost‐effective and are associated with improved patient outcomes, they might not be ideal for every patient. Further investigations are needed to understand the role of telehealth in survivorship care, given the variability in study design, reporting, measures, and methodological quality.
Individuals Experiencing Homelessness: A Systematic Review of Otolaryngology‐Related Health Needs and Community‐Based Interventions
Authors: Mavedatnia Dorsa , Hathi Kalpesh , Feschuk Aileen M. , Grose Elysia M. , Eskander Antoine
Published: January 2023

Objective

Access to and use of physician services is limited for those experiencing homelessness. Homelessness may predispose patients to several Otolaryngology‐Head and Neck Surgery (OHNS) health conditions and barriers to care may leave these unaddressed. The aim of this review was to synthesize the literature on OHNS health needs and community‐based interventions for patients experiencing homelessness.

Data Sources

English literature was searched in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CINAHL.

Review Methods

Studies were included if they reported on OHNS‐related conditions in patients experiencing homelessness and/or interventions related to providing OHNS care to this patient population.

Results

Twelve hundred and one articles were screened, and 12 articles were included. Most studies reported on otologic conditions (n = 8) and head and neck‐related conditions (n = 6). Nasal trauma, chronic rhinosinusitis, dysphonia, hearing loss, and cancerous/precancerous head and neck lesions were common OHNS conditions reported in this patient population. Identified barriers to care included lack of transportation, financial considerations, and lower health literacy. Three articles on community‐based interventions were included. Most of these interventions were single visits to shelters, and ensuring adequate follow‐up was identified as a challenge.

Conclusion

The current literature brings attention to certain OHNS diseases that are prevalent in this unique patient population and identifies unique barriers these patients experience when accessing care. Future studies should focus on further delineating the impact of OHNS diseases in patients experiencing homelessness and screening interventions that can be employed to mitigate the impact of diseases of the head and neck.
Neurotology Workforce in the United States: Gender Diversity and Geographic Distribution
Authors: Choi Janet S. , Ziltzer Ryan , Gadkaree Shekhar K. , Adams Meredith E. , Huang Tina C.
Published: January 2023

Objective

The workforce of neurotology has changed with increasing numbers of accredited programs and diverse representation among trainees over the past several decades. This study aims to describe the characteristics, density, and geographic variation of the current neurotology workforce in the United States.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Setting

American Board of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery portal and online search.

Methods

The study cohort included physicians certified in Neurotology by the American Board of Otolaryngology as of 2021 (n = 372). Physician characteristics including years of practice, gender, practice setting, and location were collected. Geographic variation analysis was performed by the state, county, and hospital referral region. Associations between the number of neurotologists per population and socioeconomic characteristics were assessed using multivariable regression analysis.

Results

Among 372 neurotologists, 65% practiced in academic settings and 13% were female. The percentage of female neurotologists increased from 0% among neurotologists with ≥30 years of practice to 23% among <10 years of practice. There were no differences in a practice setting by gender. The geographical analysis demonstrated that the average number of neurotologists was 1.1 per 1 million Americans. In a multivariable model, the density of neurotologists was significantly higher within counties with the highest quartiles of college education (β = .6 [95% confidence interval, CI: 0.3‐0.8]) and income (β = .3 [95% CI: 0.1‐0.6]).

Conclusion

The number of board‐certified neurotologists has gradually increased and there have been trends toward greater gender diversity. The geographical distribution of neurotology practice was concentrated in counties with higher socioeconomic status as expected given the referral‐based nature of the subspecialty. There should be efforts to reach out to low socioeconomic communities to ensure equivalent access to neurotological care.
Homocysteine Levels in Severe OSA Patients Before and After TORS‐OSA Surgery
Authors: Chiu Li‐Wen , Lin Chung‐Wei , Lin Pei‐Wen , Chai Han‐Tan , Chang Chun‐Tuan , Friedman Michael , Salapatas Anna M. , Lin Hsin‐Ching
Published: January 2023

Objective

The increased risk of cardiovascular diseases owing to a high level of serum homocysteine has been widely reported. Literature has demonstrated that patients with obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome (OSA) had a higher homocysteine level than control group. This study aimed to investigate the alteration of serum homocysteine levels in severe OSA patients receiving transoral robotic surgery (TORS).

Study Design

Retrospective chart review.

Setting

Tertiary academic medical center.

Methods

Data of polysomnography (PSG) and serum homocysteine levels before and at least 3 months after the surgery were collected and analyzed via paired t tests. A subgroup analysis based on the preoperative homocysteine level (≥15 mcmol/L, as hyperhomocysteinemia group) was conducted to compare the intergroup differences of homocysteine decrease. Pearson's correlation was used to survey the relationships between the changes of major PSG parameters and the levels of homocysteine decrease at baseline and after TORS‐OSA surgery.

Results

Two hundred sixty‐one patients with severe OSA were enrolled. There were significant improvements in major PSG parameters after TORS‐OSA surgery. Homocysteine levels significantly decreased from 12.1 ± 3.9 to 11.4 ± 3.7 mcmol/L (difference = −0.7 ± 2.8 mcmol/L, p = .001) postoperatively, which was shown in the hyperhomocysteinemia group (difference = −2.9 ± 4.7 mcmol/L, p = .007) to a greater extent. Pearson's correlation revealed that ΔODI (oxygen desaturation index/h) was the predominant estimate with a positive association with Δhomocysteine (r = 0.525, p = .012).

Conclusion

TORS‐OSA surgery could decrease homocysteine levels in OSA patients. The effects were more relevant in severe OSA patients with abnormal preoperative homocysteine levels.
Approach to Cochlear Implantation in Patients With Ventriculoperitoneal Shunts
Authors: Macielak Robert J. , Selleck Anne Morgan , Kocharyan Armine , Hunter Jacob B. , Patro Ankita , Perkins Elizabeth L. , Hamilton Christopher A. , Patel Neil S. , Gurgel Richard K. , Sweeney Alex D. , Brown Kevin D. , Link Michael J. , Carlson Matthew L.
Published: January 2023

Objective

To evaluate the safety and outcomes of cochlear implantation (CI) in patients with ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunts to inform clinical practice.

Study Design

Historical cohort study.

Setting

Tertiary referral centers.

Methods

A multi‐institutional historical cohort of patients with VP shunts and CI was identified and analyzed.

Results

A total of 46 patients (median age 8 years [interquratile range, IQR: 2‐46]) with VP shunts and CI were identified. Of these, 41 (89%) patients had a VP shunt prior to CI. Based on institutional preference and individual patient factors, CI was performed contralateral to a pre‐existing VP shunt in 24 of these 41 cases (59%) and ipsilateral in 17 (41%). Furthermore, pre‐CI relocation of the VP shunt was performed in 3 cases (7%), and 2 patients (5%) underwent planned revision of their VP shunt concurrent with CI. In total, 2 of 27 pediatric patients (7%) required unanticipated revision shunt surgery, both contralateral to CI device placement, given VP shunt malfunction. One of 19 adult patients (5%) required shunt revision during CI due to shunt damage noted intraoperatively. Among 43 patients with available follow‐up, 38 (88%) are regular CI users, with a median consonant‐nucleus vowel‐consonant word: score of 58% (IQR: 28‐72).

Conclusion

CI can be performed at low risk, either contralateral or ipsilateral, to a VP shunt, and does not mandate shunt revision in most cases. Additional considerations regarding CI receiver‐stimulator placement are necessary with programmable shunts to mitigate device interaction. Preoperative planning, including coordination of care with neurosurgery, is important to achieving optimal outcomes.
Histopathologic Features of Chronic Rhinosinusitis in Diabetic Patients
Authors: Talati Vidit M. , Brown Hannah J. , Kim Young‐Jae , Allen‐Proctor Mary K. , Gattuso Paolo , Mahdavinia Mahboobeh , Papagiannopoulos Peter , Batra Pete , Tajudeen Bobby A.
Published: January 2023

Objective

To explore how diabetes mellitus impacts chronic rhinosinusitis clinically and on structured histopathology to provide insights on new potential chronic rhinosinusitis endotypes.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Tertiary academic center.

Methods

A retrospective study of chronic rhinosinusitis patients who underwent functional endoscopic sinus surgery from 2015 to 2020 was performed. Structured 13‐variable histopathology reports were generated from intraoperative sinonasal specimens. These variables were compared against demographic factors, comorbidities, culture data, and preoperative Lund‐Mackay and SNOT‐22 scores using logistic regression.

Results

There were 411 patients, including 52 diabetics. Diabetes was associated with higher mean body mass index (34.9 vs 29.2; p < .001), age (57.8 vs 48.0; p < .001), and Gram‐negative (40.2% vs 22.7%; p < .030) and coagulase‐negative Staphylococcus (49.0% vs 28.5%; p = .008) culture rates. Black (23.1% vs 18.7%) and Hispanic (23.1% vs 8.6%) races were more common with diabetes (p = .026). Gender, smoking, polyp status, and Lund‐Mackay and SNOT‐22 scores did not differ between groups. Diabetics had more fungal elements (13.5% vs 3.3%, p = .018); no other histopathological differences were seen. When controlling for demographic variables and comorbidities, diabetes independently predicted the presence of fungal elements (HR 4.38, p = .018).

Conclusion

Diabetic chronic rhinosinusitis patients demonstrated increased fungal elements on structured histopathology. Other histopathological features were unaffected by diabetes. These findings may have important implications on the medical and surgical management of diabetic chronic rhinosinusitis patients in which early fungal disease assessment is paramount.
Cochlear Ossification After Vestibular Schwannoma Surgery: A Temporal Bone Study
Authors: Itamura Kyohei , Geerardyn Alexander , Podury Archana , Lopez Ivan A. , Wong Yu‐Tung , Ishiyama Akira , Quesnel Alicia M. , Miller Mia E.
Published: January 2023

Objective

This study aims to investigate patterns of cochlear ossification (CO) in cadaveric temporal bones of patients who underwent vestibular schwannoma (VS) surgery via the translabyrinthine (TL), middle cranial fossa (MF), or retrosigmoid (RS) approaches.

Study Design

Histopathologic analysis of cadaveric temporal bones.

Setting

Multi‐institutional national temporal bone repository.

Methods

The National Institute of Deafness and Communication Disorders and House Temporal Bone Laboratory at the University of California, Los Angeles and the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Otopathology Laboratory were searched for cadaveric temporal bones with a history of VS for which microsurgery was performed. Exclusion criteria included non‐VS and perioperative death within 30 days of surgery. Temporal bones were analyzed histologically for CO of the basal, middle, and apical turns.

Results

Of 92 temporal bones with a history of schwannoma from both databases, 12 of these cases met the inclusion criteria. The approaches for tumor excision included 2 MF, 4 RS, and 6 TL approaches. CO was observed in all temporal bones that had undergone TL surgery. Among temporal bones that had undergone MF or RS surgeries, 5/6 had no CO, and 1/6 had partial ossification. This single case was noted to have intraoperative vestibular violation after RS surgery upon histopathologic and chart review.

Conclusion

In this temporal bone series, all temporal bones that had undergone TL demonstrated varying degrees of CO on histological analysis. MF and RS cases did not exhibit CO except in the case of vestibular violation. When cochlear implantation is planned or possible after VS surgery, surgeons may consider using a surgical approach that does not violate the labyrinth.
Hospital Admissions in Pediatric Patients With Tracheostomies Based on Rurality and Insurance Status
Authors: Van Horn Adam J. , Good Raquel , Thatcher Aaron L. , Nation Javan J. , Friesen Tzyynong L. , Kirkham Erin M.
Published: January 2023

Objective

Determine whether rurality or public insurance status is associated with greater 30‐day readmission after tracheostomy in pediatric patients.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort.

Setting

Pediatric Health Information System (PHIS) Database.

Methods

Patients within PHIS who underwent tracheostomy from 2013 to 2017 were included. Rural status was defined by rural‐urban commuting area codes. Insurance status was based on the primary payer. All‐cause 30‐day readmissions and tracheostomy‐related readmissions were recorded. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to test for differences in readmissions between cohorts.

Results

Among patients, 1092 were rural, and 4329 were publicly insured, with no significant association between rurality and insurance. Compared to nonrural patients, rural patients were more frequently white, less frequently ventilator dependent, and more likely discharged home rather than to a care facility. Publicly insured patients were more frequently non‐white. Twenty‐eight percent of patients were readmitted within 30 days of discharge. Odds of 30‐day readmission were lower in rural patients (odds ratio [OR]: 0.80, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.68‐0.95, p = .01) but higher in publicly insured (OR: 1.24, 95% CI: 1.09‐1.42, p = .001) controlling for age at tracheostomy, sex, race, and ventilator dependence. The odds of tracheostomy‐related admission did not differ by rurality but were higher in publicly insured children (1.39, 95% CI: 1.03‐1.88, p = .03).

Conclusion

Readmission within 30 days following tracheostomy was more likely in publicly insured patients and less likely in rural patients. These findings help identify at‐risk patients when considering discharge planning and follow‐up. More work is needed to understand long‐term tracheostomy outcomes in these groups.
Assessing the Risk of Adjuvant Radiotherapy Initiation Delays With Social Support Surveys
Authors: Renslo Bryan , Sawaf Tuleen , Virgen Celina G. , Farrokhian Nathan , Yu Katherine M. , Somani Shaan N. , Penn Joseph , Ziegler Andrea , Gan Gregory N. , Kakarala Kiran , Shnayder Yelizaveta , Bur Andrés M. , Sykes Kevin J.
Published: January 2023

Objective

In patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), initiating postoperative radiotherapy (PORT) greater than 42 days after surgery is associated with a higher risk of poor survival outcomes. Social support has been shown to modulate behaviors related to care‐seeking and treatment adherence. In this study, we sought to determine the relationship between social support metrics and PORT delays.

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Single tertiary medical center.

Methods

Patients with HNSCC who underwent primary surgical excision requiring PORT were prospectively enrolled. Patient‐perceived social support metrics were assessed using the Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey (MOS‐SSS) at initial presurgical evaluation. Associations with PORT delays were evaluated via univariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis.

Results

A total of 111 patients met the inclusion criteria for the study. An additional 28 patients were recommended to receive PORT but did not initiate treatment and were included for secondary analysis. All four subscales of the MOS‐SSS (positive social interaction, affectionate support, tangible support, and emotional/informational support) were significantly associated with PORT initiation delays on univariable analysis. On multivariable analysis, the overall MOS‐SSS score (odds ratio [OR] 2.08, 1.15‐4.35, p = .028) was significantly associated with PORT initiation delays. On secondary analysis, lower tangible support was associated with a lack of PORT initiation (OR 1.63, 1.05‐2.54, p = .028).

Conclusion

Social support metrics were significantly associated with PORT delays, which may help promote tighter scheduling and closer monitoring of high‐risk patients.
Parathyroid Autofluorescence in Pediatric Thyroid Surgery: Experience With False Positive and False Negative Results
Authors: Su‐Velez Brooke M. , Hartman Gary E. , Seeley Hilary , Orloff Lisa A. , Noel Julia E. , Meister Kara D.
Published: January 2023

Devices for near‐infrared light stimulation of autofluorescence (NIRAF) allow for intraoperative identification of parathyroid glands with high sensitivity in adults. However, their performance in the pediatric population is unknown. In this case series with chart review at a tertiary academic children's hospital, we investigated pediatric patients undergoing thyroid surgery and concurrent use of a probe‐based NIRAF device. Thirteen patients (ages 6‐18 years) underwent thyroid and/or neck dissection procedures, and 2 patients had revision procedures for a total of 15 cases with the NIRAF device. Eight cases had NIRAF values that matched surgeon opinion of parathyroid tissue or histology when available. Six cases had false positive NIRAF readings (40.0%) and 1 case had false negative readings (6.7%). Compared with surgeon opinion or histology, the NIRAF device confirmed 26 of 34 parathyroid gland candidates (76.5%). These devices need further investigation in pediatric patients, whose tissues may have different autofluorescence characteristics.
Mechanical failure analysis of pultrusion glass fiber pipe based on acoustic emission technology
Authors: Yu Lichao , Liu Guiyu , Wang Wei , Hamada Hiroyuki , Yang Yuqiu
Published: January 2023

In this study, the mechanical properties and damage modes of pultruded glass fiber/unsaturated polyester composite square pipe for automotive parts were investigated. The pipe structure, fiber mass content, dynamic mechanical analysis, tensile, and bending properties and acoustic emission detection damage mechanism of pultruded glass fiber composite pipe were studied. The structure of the cross‐section of the pultrusion pipe is like a sandwich composed of mat layers on both surfaces and a unidirectional fiber layer in middle. Based on the failure analysis of pipe by acoustic emission signal technology, it is found that the tensile damage process was considered into four stages, initial damage, mat layer fracture, intermediate damage, and fiber fracture; while the bending damage process can be divided into two stages as initial and overall damages.
Patient‐reported outcome measures for emotional functioning in cancer patients: Content comparison of the EORTC CAT Core, FACT‐G, HADS, SF‐36, PRO‐CTCAE, and PROMIS instruments
Authors: Rothmund Maria , Pilz Micha J. , Egeter Nathalie , Lidington Emma , Piccinin Claire , Arraras Juan I. , Grønvold Mogens , Holzner Bernhard , van Leeuwen Marieke , Petersen Morten Aa. , Schmidt Heike , Young Teresa , Giesinger Johannes M. ,   EORTC Quality of Life Group
Published: January 2023

Background

Cancer and its treatment can have substantial impact on patients' emotional functioning. Several patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) assessing emotional functioning are available, but differences in content limit the comparability of results. To better understand conceptual (dis)similarities, we conducted a content comparison of commonly used PROMs.

Methods

We included emotional functioning items, scales, and item banks from the EORTC CAT Core, EORTC QLQ‐C30, FACT‐G, Hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS), SF‐36, PRO‐CTCAE, and PROMIS (item banks for anxiety, depression, and anger). Item content was linked to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) and a hierarchical framework established for PROMIS. Single items could be coded with more than one ICF category but were solely assigned to one facet within the PROMIS framework.

Results

The measures comprise 132 unique items covering the ICF components ‘Body functions’ (136/153 codings, 88.9%) and ‘Activities and participation’ (15/153, 9.8%). Most ICF codings (112/153, 73.2%) referred to the third‐level category ‘b1528 Emotional functions, other specified’. According to the PROMIS framework 48.5% of the items assessed depression (64/132 items), followed by anxiety (41/132, 31.1%) and anger (26/132, 19.7%). The EORTC measures covered depression, anxiety, and anger in a single measure, while the PROMIS inventory provides separate item banks for these concepts. The FACT‐G, SF‐36, PRO‐CTCAE and HADS covered depression and anxiety, but not anger.

Conclusion

Our results provide an in‐depth conceptual understanding of selected PROMs and important qualitative information going beyond psychometric evidence. Such information supports the identification of PROMs for which scores can be meaningfully linked with quantitative methods.
Inactivation effects of the mist nebulized with plasma‐activated air on Pseudomonas aeruginosa through the simulated respiratory tract
Authors: Guo Li , Niyazi Gulimire , Huang Lingling , Zhao Pengyu , Wang Zifeng , Lin Jiao , Li Tianhui , Li Gang , Song Liqiang , Liu Dingxin , Wang Xiaohua , Rong Mingzhe
Published: January 2023

Plasma‐based technology has been widely applied in the biomedicine, agriculture, and environmental fields. In this study, a new application mode, namely plasma‐activated nebulized mist (PANM) was proposed. The saline was nebulized by the plasma‐activated air to form a mist, and the inactivation effects on Pseudomonas aeruginosa were analyzed based on the simulated respiratory tract. The PANM through the simulated trachea with different lengths or diameters, and the branched once or twice simulated respiratory tract exhibited effective inactivation effects. The PANM through the combined simulated trachea and pig trachea could also inactivate the bacteria on the inner wall of the pig trachea. This study supplied a potent alternative to antibiotics for the treatment of respiratory tract infections.
Fatty acids negatively regulate platelet function through formation of noncanonical 15‐lipoxygenase‐derived eicosanoids
Authors: Yamaguchi Adriana , van Hoorebeke Christopher , Tourdot Benjamin E. , Perry Steven C. , Lee Grace , Rhoads Nicole , Rickenberg Andrew , Green Abigail R. , Sorrentino James , Yeung Jennifer , Freedman J. Cody , Holman Theodore R. , Holinstat Michael
Published: January 2023

The antiplatelet effect of polyunsaturated fatty acids is primarily attributed to its metabolism to bioactive metabolites by oxygenases, such as lipoxygenases (LOX). Platelets have demonstrated the ability to generate 15‐LOX‐derived metabolites (15‐oxylipins); however, whether 15‐LOX is in the platelet or is required for the formation of 15‐oxylipins remains unclear. This study seeks to elucidate whether 15‐LOX is required for the formation of 15‐oxylipins in the platelet and determine their mechanistic effects on platelet reactivity. In this study, 15‐HETrE, 15‐HETE, and 15‐HEPE attenuated collagen‐induced platelet aggregation, and 15‐HETrE inhibited platelet aggregation induced by different agonists. The observed anti‐aggregatory effect was due to the inhibition of intracellular signaling including αIIbβ3 and protein kinase C activities, calcium mobilization, and granule secretion. While 15‐HETrE inhibited platelets partially through activation of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor β (PPARβ), 15‐HETE also inhibited platelets partially through activation of PPARα. 15‐HETrE, 15‐HETE, or 15‐HEPE inhibited 12‐LOX in vitro, with arachidonic acid as the substrate. Additionally, a 15‐oxylipin‐dependent attenuation of 12‐HETE level was observed in platelets following ex vivo treatment with 15‐HETrE, 15‐HETE, or 15‐HEPE. Platelets treated with DGLA formed 15‐HETrE and collagen‐induced platelet aggregation was attenuated only in the presence of ML355 or aspirin, but not in the presence of 15‐LOX‐1 or 15‐LOX‐2 inhibitors. Expression of 15‐LOX‐1, but not 15‐LOX‐2, was decreased in leukocyte‐depleted platelets compared to non‐depleted platelets. Taken together, these findings suggest that 15‐oxylipins regulate platelet reactivity; however, platelet expression of 15‐LOX‐1 is low, suggesting that 15‐oxylipins may be formed in the platelet through a 15‐LOX‐independent pathway.
Quantitative systems pharmacology of the eye: Tools and data for ocular QSP
Authors: Kuepfer Lars , Fuellen Georg , Stahnke Thomas
Published: January 2023

Good eyesight belongs to the most‐valued attributes of health, and diseases of the eye are a significant healthcare burden. Case numbers are expected to further increase in the next decades due to an aging society. The development of drugs in ophthalmology, however, is difficult due to limited accessibility of the eye, in terms of drug administration and in terms of sampling of tissues for drug pharmacokinetics (PKs) and pharmacodynamics (PDs). Ocular quantitative systems pharmacology models provide the opportunity to describe the distribution of drugs in the eye as well as the resulting drug‐response in specific segments of the eye. In particular, ocular physiologically‐based PK (PBPK) models are necessary to describe drug concentration levels in different regions of the eye. Further, ocular effect models using molecular data from specific cellular systems are needed to develop dose–response correlations. We here describe the current status of PK/PBPK as well as PD models for the eyes and discuss cellular systems, data repositories, as well as animal models in ophthalmology. The application of the various concepts is highlighted for the development of new treatments for postoperative fibrosis after glaucoma surgery.
Microstructural Characterization and Self‐Propagation Properties of Reactive Al/Ni Multilayers Deposited onto Wavelike Surface Morphologies: Influence on the Propagation Front Velocity
Authors: Sauni Camposano Yesenia H. , Bartsch Heike , Matthes Sebastian , Oliva-Ramirez Manuel , Jaekel Konrad , Schaaf Peter
Published: January 2023

Reactive multilayer systems are nanostructures of great interest for various technological applications because of their high energy release rate during the self‐propagating reaction of their components. Therefore, many efforts are aimed at controlling the propagation velocity of these reactions. Herein, reactive multilayer systems of Al/Ni in the shape of free‐standing foils with a wavelike surface morphology prepared by using sacrificial substrates with well‐aligned waves are presented and the propagation of the reaction along different directions of the reproduced waves is analyzed. During the ignition test, the propagation front is recorded with a high‐speed camera, and the maximum temperature is measured using a pyrometer. The propagation of the reaction is favored in the direction of the waves, which points out the influence of the anisotropy generated by this morphology and how it affects the propagation dynamics and the resulting microstructure. Furthermore, compared to their counterparts fabricated on flat substrates, these reactive multilayers with wavelike morphology exhibit a remarkable reduction in the propagation velocity of the reaction of about 50%, without significantly affecting the maximum temperature registered during the reaction.
Correlating Photoconductivity and Optical Properties in Oxygen‐Containing Yttrium Hydride Thin Films
Authors: Kazi Suraya , Moldarev Dmitrii , Moro Marcos V. , Primetzhofer Daniel , Wolff Max
Published: January 2023

Oxygen‐containing yttrium hydride (YHO), primarily known for its photochromic properties, simultaneously shows a photoconductive response. Polycrystalline YHO thin films are deposited by reactive magnetron sputtering onto glass substrates and their optical and electrical properties are correlated under illumination with light. While photoconductivity is found in a broader range of compositions than photochromism, maximum photoconductive response is found for samples exhibiting photochromism. This photoconductive effect can be observed above a certain cutoff energy of light and a stronger response is triggered by shorter wavelengths. After the illumination is stopped, the slow recovery (few minutes) of the optical transmission and electrical transport suggests that the underlying process is not purely electronic. A memory effect is found depending on the previous exposure of samples to light which supports the hypothesis of local hydrogen diffusion during the photochromic reaction. An unprecedentedly fast bleaching speed is reported for samples stored in vacuum immediately after film deposition.
Junctionless Electric‐Double‐Layer Thin‐Film Transistors with Logic Functions
Authors: Yuan Xing , Dou Wei , Gan Xiaomin , Hou Wei , Lei Liuhui , Zhou Weichang , Tang Dongsheng
Published: January 2023

Herein, junctionless thin‐film transistors (TFT) with indium‐oxide (In2O3) as the n‐channel active layer are prepared on transparent substrates by magnetron sputtering at room temperature. Chitosan with an electric‐double‐layer (EDL) effect as a gate dielectric enables the device to achieve low‐voltage operation, thus reducing energy consumption. The device maintains its performance in dark or illuminated conditions and has good performance with a mobility of 0.21 cm2 V−1s−1, a current on/off ratio of 6.5 × 106, and a subthreshold swing of 66 mV decade−1. The device implements “OR” and “AND” logic functions at different voltage levels. The In2O3 TFT is ideally suited for prospective applications in large‐area electronics and flexible electronics due to its exceptional device performance and low fabrication temperature.
Tackling noncommunicable diseases in Africa through football: The case of Malawi
Authors: Kangwerema Allan , Miggo Mictum , Harawa Gracian , Kazanga‐Chiumia Isabel , Haruna Usman Abubakar , Safari Jackson , Lutala Prosper , Kaunda John Thumbiko
Published: January 2023

There is evidence that physical inactivity and dietary factors are more common among modifiable risk factors for noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) which are on the rise in Malawi. Football has been shown to have a wide range of health‐related benefits in health education programs, including the promotion of physical activity as a potential intervention in addressing NCDs. In Malawi, few football‐based health promotion programs have been implemented to address NCDs. Among the programs implemented were the Federation Internationale de Football Association 11 for Health initiative which was a school‐based health education program for the youth and the Malawi Ministry of Health's SPORTS FOR HEALTH initiative targeting civil servants. These programs produced significant improvement in physical activity in the participants and also increased their knowledge of both communicable and NCDs. However, these initiatives were not rolled out to many sites across Malawi. As Malawi is tackling rising cases of NCDs, football can be used as a powerful tool in promoting physical activity and it also provides an important platform for the delivery of NCDs’ health promotion messages to a wider audience. Such football‐based initiatives must be designed to directly address modifiable risk factors of NCDs. For successful implementation, there must be a good collaboration among the Ministries of Health and Sports, local football leagues, and other stakeholders.
Imperfect Quantum Photonic Neural Networks
Authors: Ewaniuk Jacob , Carolan Jacques , Shastri Bhavin J. , Rotenberg Nir
Published: January 2023

Quantum photonic neural networks are variational photonic circuits that can be trained to implement high‐fidelity quantum operations. However, work‐to‐date has assumed idealized components, including a perfect π Kerr nonlinearity. This work investigates the limitations of non‐ideal quantum photonic neural networks that suffer from fabrication imperfections leading to unbalanced photon loss and imperfect routing, and weak nonlinearities, showing that they can learn to overcome most of these errors. Using the example of a Bell‐state analyzer, the results demonstrate that there is an optimal network size, which balances imperfections versus the ability to compensate for lacking nonlinearities. With a sub‐optimal effective Kerr nonlinearity, it is shown that a network fabricated with current state‐of‐the‐art processes can achieve an unconditional fidelity of 0.905 that increases to 0.999999 if it is possible to precondition success on the detection of a photon in each logical photonic qubit. These results provide a guide to the construction of viable, brain‐inspired quantum photonic devices for emerging quantum technologies.
Inflammatory and vascular biomarkers in post‐COVID‐19 syndrome: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of over 20 biomarkers
Authors: Yong Shin Jie , Halim Alice , Halim Michael , Liu Shiliang , Aljeldah Mohammed , Al Shammari Basim R. , Alwarthan Sara , Alhajri Mashael , Alawfi Abdulsalam , Alshengeti Amer , Khamis Faryal , Alsalman Jameela , Alshukairi Abeer N. , Abukhamis Nujoud A. , Almaghrabi Fatimah S. , Almuthree Souad A. , Alsulaiman Abdulrahman M. , Alshehail Bashayer M. , Alfaraj Amal H. , Alhawaj Shorouq A. , Mohapatra Ranjan K. , Rabaan Ali A.
Published: January 2023

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 may inflict a post‐viral condition known as post‐COVID‐19 syndrome (PCS) or long‐COVID. Studies measuring levels of inflammatory and vascular biomarkers in blood, serum, or plasma of COVID‐19 survivors with PCS versus non‐PCS controls have produced mixed findings. Our review sought to meta‐analyse those studies. A systematic literature search was performed across five databases until 25 June 2022, with an updated search on 1 November 2022. Data analyses were performed with Review Manager and R Studio statistical software. Twenty‐four biomarkers from 23 studies were meta‐analysed. Higher levels of C‐reactive protein (Standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.20; 95% CI: 0.02–0.39), D‐dimer (SMD = 0.27; 95% CI: 0.09–0.46), lactate dehydrogenase (SMD = 0.30; 95% CI: 0.05–0.54), and leukocytes (SMD = 0.34; 95% CI: 0.02–0.66) were found in COVID‐19 survivors with PCS than in those without PCS. After sensitivity analyses, lymphocytes (SMD = 0.30; 95% CI: 0.12–0.48) and interleukin‐6 (SMD = 0.30; 95% CI: 0.12–0.49) were also significantly higher in PCS than non‐PCS cases. No significant differences were noted in the remaining biomarkers investigated (e.g., ferritin, platelets, troponin, and fibrinogen). Subgroup analyses suggested the biomarker changes were mainly driven by PCS cases diagnosed via manifestation of organ abnormalities rather than symptomatic persistence, as well as PCS cases with duration of <6 than ≥6 months. In conclusion, our review pinpointed certain inflammatory and vascular biomarkers associated with PCS, which may shed light on potential new approaches to understanding, diagnosing, and treating PCS.
Resilient time‐varying output formation tracking of heterogeneous linear multiagent systems under malicious false data injection attacks and denial‐of‐service attacks over digraphs
Authors: Feng Zhi , Hu Guoqiang
Published: January 2023

A distributed control fashion of cooperative formation tracking may be vulnerable to malicious attacks on sensors and communications that deteriorate the formation tracking performance or even destabilize the entire multiagent system. This article addresses a resilient time‐varying output formation tracking problem of linear heterogeneous multiagent systems, where an attacker can adversely inject false data injection (FDI) attacks on sensors and Denial‐of‐Service (DoS) attacks on communications. Both characteristics will not only enhance the practical relevance of the studied issue, but also bring nontrivial design challenges of distributed control algorithms and convergence analysis. A novel resilient distributed control architecture is developed to guarantee a global exponential time‐varying output formation tracking. In particular, the design includes features: (1) a resilient distributed leader estimator is developed to estimate the leader's state for each follower under DoS attacks over digraphs; (2) a distributed output feedback controller integrated with an observer‐based resilient mechanism is developed to achieve the time‐varying output formation tracking under attacks; (3) unlike existing related works to handle attacks as bounded disturbances or faults, the proposed design is resilient to enable exponential convergence, whereas many related works obtain uniformly ultimately boundedness (UUB) convergence. Simulation results are presented to validate the design's effectiveness.
Soil organic carbon changes in a Carolina Bay wetland 15 years after restoration
Authors: Moritz Christopher M. , Vepraskas Michael J. , Ricker Matthew C.
Published: January 2023

Evaluating wetland restoration success is complicated. In this study, soil organic carbon (SOC) pools in a Carolina Bay wetland (CBW) were determined for pre‐ and post‐restoration periods and compared to values in reference wetlands to determine if SOC could be used to evaluate restoration success. The CBW was Juniper Bay in Robeson County, NC, USA, that had been restored for 15 years following its use for agriculture. Previously, we determined both pre‐restoration SOCs and post‐restoration hydrology. Saturation occurrence and anaerobic conditions (15 years following restoration) were confirmed with Indicator of Reduction in Soils (IRIS) tubes. Soil morphological features, litter thickness, and SOC to 75 cm were also determined. There were significant (p < 0.05) differences in numbers of hydric soil field indicators in the organic soils and no differences in the mineral soils (p > 0.10) between pre‐ and post‐restoration periods. Litter thickness post‐restoration increased linearly with saturation duration. SOC decreased following restoration by 49% in mineral soils and 24% in organic soils as compared to pre‐restoration values. SOC concentrations in the restored wetland were not significantly different than those in reference wetlands indicating that the Juniper Bay restoration was successfully sequestering C. Litter thickness may be a good indicator of restoration success. SOC levels may decrease compared to reference wetland values if pre‐restoration soils were in agriculture.
Study of silicon surface micro‐roughness generated by SF6 remote plasma etching
Authors: Saloum Saker , Zrir Mohammad Ali , Alkhaled Bashar , Shaker Samer Abou , Balloul Yamen , Ghannoum Daliah , Alkafri Mohammad Nidal
Published: January 2023

We investigate micro‐roughness of silicon surface in remote radiofrequency (RF) SF6 plasma, for different etching durations. A linear behavior of etching rate is observed as a function of etching time. PL measurements at different temperatures indicate a visible (green and violet) and ultraviolet (UV) emissions. The evolution of surface roughness of Si substrates can be controlled depending on the etching duration. In response to the increase of the etching duration, the surface undergoes nanoscale roughening, ripple formation, and finally microscale roughening. Atomic force microscopy analysis was carried out to surface morphology.