bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The efficacy of systematic lymph node dissection in advanced epithelial ovarian cancer during interval debulking surgery performed after neoadjuvant chemotherapy
Authors: Eoh Kyung Jin , Yoon Jung Won , Lee Inok , Lee Jung‐Yun , Kim Sunghoon , Kim Sang Wun , Kim Young Tae , Nam Eun Ji 
Published: May 2017

Background and ObjectiveThe therapeutic role of systematic lymph node dissection (LND) remains unclear in advanced epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC), especially during interval debulking surgery (IDS) performed after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC). We analyzed the therapeutic and prognostic roles of systematic LND in advanced EOC patients.MethodsData from consecutive patients with International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage IIIC‐IV disease, who underwent optimal IDS (<1cm) after NAC, were obtained via a retrospective chart review. Patients were classified into a lymph node sampling (LNS; node count <20) group and an LND (node count ≥20) group.ResultsAmong 133 study patients, 65 and 68 underwent LND and LNS, respectively, during IDS. Overall survival (OS) was significantly better in the LND group than in the LNS group. In subgroup analysis with negative lymphadenopathy on preoperative imaging, progression‐free survival (PFS) and OS were significantly better in the LND group than in the LNS group. Follow‐up of subsequent recurrences showed significantly lower nodal and peritoneal recurrence rates among patients who underwent LND. Multivariate analysis identified LND as an independent prognostic factor for PFS and OS.ConclusionSystematic LND may have therapeutic value in advanced EOC patients treated with NAC and IDS.
Automated smartphone audiometry: Validation of a word recognition test app
Authors: Dewyer Nicholas A. , Jiradejvong Patpong , Henderson Sabes Jennifer , Limb Charles J. 
Published: May 2017

Objectives/HypothesisDevelop and validate an automated smartphone word recognition test.Study DesignCross‐sectional case‐control diagnostic test comparison.MethodsAn automated word recognition test was developed as an app for a smartphone with earphones. English‐speaking adults with recent audiograms and various levels of hearing loss were recruited from an audiology clinic and were administered the smartphone word recognition test. Word recognition scores determined by the smartphone app and the gold standard speech audiometry test performed by an audiologist were compared.ResultsTest scores for 37 ears were analyzed. Word recognition scores determined by the smartphone app and audiologist testing were in agreement, with 86% of the data points within a clinically acceptable margin of error and a linear correlation value between test scores of 0.89.ConclusionsThe WordRec automated smartphone app accurately determines word recognition scores.Level of Evidence3b. Laryngoscope, 128:707–712, 2018
Fine‐needle aspiration with selective use of core needle biopsy of major salivary gland tumors
Authors: Romano Erica B. , Wagner Jason M. , Alleman Anthony M. , Zhao Lichao , Conrad Rachel D. , Krempl Greg A. 
Published: May 2017

ObjectivesPreferential use of fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) versus core needle biopsy (CNB) for distinguishing benign from malignant major salivary gland tumors is highly debated. The main disadvantage of FNA is lower sensitivity, whereas arguments against CNB include use of a larger bore needle and greater risk of complications. The aim of this study is to evaluate our experience performing ultrasound‐guided (UG) FNA with selective use of CNB based on preliminary cytopathology, and to determine whether our preoperative diagnostic approach is more sensitive and specific than FNA alone—and at least as sensitive and specific as CNB alone.Study DesignRetrospective review of UG needle biopsy sampling of lesions arising in or around parotid and submandibular glands.MethodsUltrasounds of 141 needle biopsies were identified. Patient/lesion/needle biopsy characteristics, preliminary cytopathology, final pathology, imaging studies, and subsequent clinical course and treatment were documented.ResultsNeedle biopsies performed according to our protocol provided results that guided clinical decision making in 125 of 135 cases, 92.6% (95% confidence interval [CI], 86.8%–96.4%) of the time. Using 41 cases that had histologic verification, sensitivity was 100% (95% CI, 79.6%–100%), and specificity was 92.3% (95% CI, 75.9%–97.9%) for detecting malignancy. We definitively characterized 120 lesions as benign (84) or malignant (36).ConclusionPreoperative needle biopsy diagnoses allowed clinical management to progress 92.6% of the time. The protocol of FNA with selective use of CNB may potentially reduce patient exposure to risks associated with CNB without the tradeoff of lower sensitivity seen with FNA.Level of Evidence4. Laryngoscope, 127:2522–2527, 2017
Central voice production and pathophysiology of spasmodic dysphonia
Authors: Mor Niv , Simonyan Kristina , Blitzer Andrew 
Published: May 2017

ObjectiveOur ability to speak is complex, and the role of the central nervous system in controlling speech production is often overlooked in the field of otolaryngology. In this brief review, we present an integrated overview of speech production with a focus on the role of central nervous system. The role of central control of voice production is then further discussed in relation to the potential pathophysiology of spasmodic dysphonia (SD).Data SourcesPeer‐review articles on central laryngeal control and SD were identified from PUBMED search. Selected articles were augmented with designated relevant publications.Review MethodsPublications that discussed central and peripheral nervous system control of voice production and the central pathophysiology of laryngeal dystonia were chosen.ResultsOur ability to speak is regulated by specialized complex mechanisms coordinated by high‐level cortical signaling, brainstem reflexes, peripheral nerves, muscles, and mucosal actions. Recent studies suggest that SD results from a primary central disturbance associated with dysfunction at our highest levels of central voice control. The efficacy of botulinum toxin in treating SD may not be limited solely to its local effect on laryngeal muscles and also may modulate the disorder at the level of the central nervous system.ConclusionFuture therapeutic options that target the central nervous system may help modulate the underlying disorder in SD and allow clinicians to better understand the principal pathophysiology.Level of EvidenceNA.Laryngoscope, 128:177–183, 2018
Novel murine xenograft model for the evaluation of stem cell therapy for profound dysphagia
Authors: Kuhn Maggie A. , Black Amanda B. , Siddiqui M. Tausif , Nolta Jan A. , Belafsky Peter C. 
Published: May 2017

Objectives/HypothesisDysphagia is common and costly. Treatments are limited and innovative therapies are required. The tongue is essential for safe, effective swallowing and is a natural target for regenerative therapy. Muscle‐derived stem cells (MDSCs) hold potential to restore dynamic function, and their application in the damaged tongue is appealing. We examined the safety and efficacy of human MDSC implantation into a novel mouse tongue model.Study DesignAnimal study.MethodsAdult immune‐deficient mice were randomized to surgical (hemiglossectomy) and nonsurgical groups. Animals underwent lingual injection of human MDSCs or saline (control). Groups were followed for 12 weeks. The primary outcome was MDSC survival measured by an in vivo imaging system (IVIS). Secondary outcomes included animal survival and weight. Comparisons were made using a Mann‐Whitney U test with an α of .05.ResultsHuman MDSCs survived to the endpoint demonstrating 132% ± 465% and 15% ± 11% bioluminescence by IVIS at 12 weeks in hemiglossectomy and nonsurgical groups, respectively. All but one animal (hemiglossectomy with saline injection) survived to the study endpoint. Mean weight increased from baseline in all groups, with the greatest change observed in hemiglossectomy mice with MDSC injection (baseline 24.5 g ± 3.9 g; delta 5.9 g ± 4.6 g), exceeding the weight gain seen in surgical control mice (baseline 24.9 g ± 4.2 g, delta 2.7 g ± 1.4 g) (P = .04).ConclusionsMDSCs exhibited over 100% survival at 3 months when injected into an immune‐deficient hemiglossectomy mouse model. Tongue‐injured animals injected with MDSCs exhibited superior weight gain after hemiglossectomy than control animals (P < .05). These data support further investigation into the use of autologous MDSCs as a potential treatment for dysphagia secondary to tongue weakness and fibrosisLevel of EvidenceNA Laryngoscope, 127:E359–E363, 2017
Complications and 30‐day hospital readmission rates of patients undergoing tracheostomy: A prospective analysis
Authors: Spataro Emily , Durakovic Nedim , Kallogjeri Dorina , Nussenbaum Brian 
Published: May 2017

ObjectiveTo determine inpatient and outpatient tracheostomy complication rates and 30‐day hospital readmission rates, and to assess patient and procedural risk factors associated with complications and readmissions.Study DesignProspective cohort study.MethodsAdult patients undergoing tracheostomy at a single academic hospital performed by any service, for any indication, were enrolled in this study over the course of 1 year. All patients had complete 30‐day follow‐up after discharge to determine complication and hospital readmission rates. Logistic regression was used to assess patient and procedural risk factors associated with these events.ResultsOne hundred patients were enrolled in this study from June 1, 2015, to June 1, 2016. The overall inpatient tracheostomy complication rate was 47% (95% confidence interval [CI], 37%–57%). Inpatient complications were associated with location in the medical intensive care unit and increased length of hospitalization. The outpatient tracheostomy complication rate was 15% (95% CI, 8%–22%). Outpatient complications were associated with having a previous tracheostomy or an awake tracheostomy under local anesthesia. The all‐cause 30‐day hospital readmission rate was 33% (95% CI, 24%–42%), and the tracheostomy‐specific readmission rate was 13% (95% CI, 6%–20%). All‐cause readmissions were associated with diabetes, length of hospitalization after tracheostomy, and outpatient complications. The overall mortality rate during the study period was 11% (95% CI, 5%–17%), with one tracheostomy‐related death.ConclusionPatients undergoing tracheostomies are at high risk for both inpatient and outpatient complications, as well for 30‐day hospital readmission. Understanding patient and procedural risk factors associated with these events will help guide interventions for quality improvement.Level of Evidence2b. Laryngoscope, 127:2746–2753, 2017
Nitrone Mediated Coupling of Hyperbranched Polymer Radicals
Authors: Du Min , Deng Chang , Wu Xiaoran , Liu Huarong , Liu Hewen 
Published: May 2017

The coupling of hyperbranched polychloromethylstyrene (PCMS) radicals with nitrone is studied in this work. Hyperbranched PCMS radicals are generated by a redox reaction of terminal chloride groups with Cu(I)Cl. The molecular weight data show that nitrone mediated radical coupling of PCMS is a kind of step polymerization. The molecular weights of the coupled products in a fixed coupling reaction time increase as the contents of nitrone increase in a wide concentration range, whereas are less affected by the content of CuCl. FTIR and NMR spectra prove the formation of alkoxyamine in the mid‐chains arising from nitrone‐mediated coupling. The nitrone‐coupled hyperbranched polymers show the birefringent property if being watched in a crossed polarizing microscope. The intrinsic viscosity data imply that the nitrone‐coupled hyperbranched polymers in solution behave like rod‐like structures. These nitrone‐coupled hyperbranched polymers are thermodegradable. This kind of cylindrical polymers with highly branched substructures may find important application as anisotropic monomolecular gels or molecular reinforcement, catalyst hosts, etc.
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The F···H Hydrogen Bonding Effect on the Dynamic Mechanical and Shape‐Memory Properties of a Fluorine‐Containing Polybenzoxazine
Authors: Liu Yanfang , Wang Rongrong , An Qin , Su Xuehui , Li Cuiyun , Shen Shanshan , Huo Guoyan 
Published: May 2017

A fluorine‐containing difunctional benzoxazine is synthesized by hydrosilylation of a monofunctional benzoxazine based ono‐allylphenol andp‐fluoroaniline. Besides the intramolecular and intermolecular hydrogen bonding associated with the nitrogen and oxygen atoms in the oxazine ring, specific self‐complementary intermolecular ArF···HO hydrogen bonding is formed in the polymerization of the benzoxazine, which leads to the resultant polybenzoxazine possessing a broad glass transition temperature range and showing two not well‐separated transitions. Based on the two glass transition temperatures, the polybenzoxazine exhibits triple‐shape‐memory behaviors by manipulating temperature and strain in the shape fixing process under tensile and bending modes. The dynamic mechanical and shape‐memory properties of the polybenzoxazine are influenced by the combined effect of the cross‐linking density and the ArF···HO hydrogen bonding.image
Computational modeling of 915 MHz microwave ablation: Comparative assessment of temperature‐dependent tissue dielectric models
Authors: Deshazer Garron , Hagmann Mark , Merck Derek , Sebek Jan , Moore Kent B. , Prakash Punit 
Published: May 2017

PurposeThe objective of this study is to develop a computational model for simulating 915 MHz microwave ablation (MWA), and verify the simulation predictions of transient temperature profiles against experimental measurements. Due to the limited experimental data characterizing temperature‐dependent changes of tissue dielectric properties at 915 MHz, we comparatively assess two temperature‐dependent approaches of modeling of dielectric properties: model A‐ piecewise linear temperature dependencies based on existing, but limited, experimental data, and model B‐ similar to model A, but augmented with linear decrease in electrical conductivity above 95 °C, as guided by our experimental measurements.MethodsThe finite element method was used to simulate MWA procedures in liver with a clinical 915 MHz ablation applicator. A coupled electromagnetic‐thermal solver incorporating temperature‐dependent tissue biophysical properties of liver was implemented. Predictions of the transient temperature profiles and ablation zone dimensions for both model A and model B were compared against experimental measurements in ex vivo bovine liver tissue. Broadband dielectric properties of tissue within different regions of the ablation zone were measured and reported at 915 MHz and 2.45 GHz.ResultsModel B yielded peak tissue temperatures in closer agreement with experimental measurements, attributed to the inclusion of decrease in electrical conductivity at elevated temperature. The simulated transverse diameters of the ablation zone predicted by both models were greater than experimental measurements, which may be in part due to the lack of a tissue shrinkage model. At both considered power levels, predictions of transverse ablation zone diameters were in closer agreement with measurements for model B (max. discrepancy of 5 mm at 60 W, and 3 mm at 30 W), compared to model A (max. discrepancy of 9 mm at 60 W, and 6 mm at 30 W). Ablation zone lengths with both models were within 2 mm at 30 W, but overestimated by up to 10 mm at 60 W.ConclusionsThe inclusion of decreased electrical conductivity above 95 °C, implemented with model B as guided by our experimental measurements, may be a good approach for approximating the dynamic changes that occur during MWA at 915 MHz. Although a step toward more effectively modeling MWA at 915 MHz, further investigation of the transition in dielectric properties with temperature and tissue shrinkage, especially at high temperatures is needed for more accurate simulations.
Technical Note: Diffusion‐weighted MRI with minimal distortion in head‐and‐neck radiotherapy using a turbo spin echo acquisition method
Authors: Schakel Tim , Hoogduin Johannes M. , Terhaard Chris H.J. , Philippens Marielle E.P. 
Published: May 2017

PurposeDiffusion‐weighted (DW) MRI, showing high contrast between tumor and background tissue, is a promising technique in radiotherapy for tumor delineation. However, its use for head‐and‐neck patients is hampered by poor geometric accuracy in conventional echo planar imaging (EPI) DW‐MRI. An alternative turbo spin echo sequence, DW‐SPLICE, is implemented and demonstrated in patients.MethodsThe DW‐SPLICE sequence was implemented on a 3.0 T system and evaluated in 10 patients. The patients were scanned in treatment position, using a customized head support and immobilization mask. Image distortions were quantified at the gross tumor volume (GTV) using field map analysis. The apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) was evaluated using an ice water phantom.ResultsThe DW images acquired by DW‐SPLICE showed no image distortions. Field map analysis at the gross tumor volumes resulted in a median distortion of 0.2 mm for DW‐SPLICE, whereas for the conventional method this was 7.2 mm. ADC values, measured using an ice water phantom were in accordance with literature values.ConclusionsThe implementation of DW‐SPLICE allows for diffusion‐weighted imaging of patients in treatment position with excellent geometrical accuracy. The images can be used to facilitate target volume delineation in RT treatment planning.
It's time to move on from the bell curve
Authors: Robinson Lawrence R. 
Published: May 2017

ABSTRACTThe bell curve was first described in the 18th century by de Moivre and Gauss to depict the distribution of binomial events, such as coin tossing, or repeated measures of physical objects. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the bell curve was appropriated, or perhaps misappropriated, to apply to biologic and social measures across people. For many years we used it to derive reference values for our electrophysiologic studies. There is, however, no reason to believe that electrophysiologic measures should approximate a bell‐curve distribution, and empiric evidence suggests they do not. The concept of using mean ± 2 standard deviations should be abandoned. Reference values are best derived by using non‐parametric analyses, such as percentile values. This proposal aligns with the recommendation of the recent normative data task force of the American Association of Neuromuscular & Electrodiagnostic Medicine and follows sound statistical principles. Muscle Nerve 56: 859–860, 2017
Cytomegalovirus reactivation posthematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and type of graft: A step toward rationalizing CMV testing and positively impacting the economics of HSCT in developing countries
Authors: Uppuluri Ramya , Subburaj Divya , Jayaraman Dhaarani , Swaminathan Venkateswaran Vellaichamy , Mullanfiroze Khushnuma , Vaidhyanathan Lakshman , Raj Revathi 
Published: May 2017

AbstractWe aimed to determine a correlation between cytomegalovirus reactivation post hematopoeitic stem cell transplantation (post‐HSCT) with the type of graft source, defining children at risk. We analyzed data on children less than 18 years of age undergoing HSCT from 2002 to May 2016 (n = 464). Correlation between reactivation and graft source was analyzed statistically. Reactivation occurred in 3% of children with matched‐related donor (MRD) transplants, 33.3% with unrelated peripheral blood stem cells, 17.4% with unrelated cords, and 36.5% (15/41) with mismatched or haploidentical grafts (P = <0.0001). MRD does not warrant weekly PCR, unlike unrelated or haploidentical donors, thus defining protocols for developing countries with limited resources.
Quantification of specific T and B cells immunological markers in children with chronic and transient ITP
Authors: Levy‐Mendelovich Sarina , Lev Atar , Aviner Shraga , Rosenberg Nurit , Kaplinsky Caim , Sharon Nechama , Miskin Hagit , Dvir Aviya , Kenet Gili , Schushan Irit Eisen , Somech Raz 
Published: May 2017

AbstractBackgroundImmune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is characterized by a transient (nonchronic) or permanent (chronic) decline in the number of platelets. Predicting the course of ITP, at the time of diagnosis, is of importance. Here we studied at diagnosis, clinical and immunological parameters in order to distinguish between different courses. The latter included the measure of new B and T cells using quantification of kappa‐deleting recombination excision circles (KRECs) and T‐cell receptor excision circles (TRECs), respectively.MethodsBlood samples were collected from 44 children with a clinical diagnosis of ITP. Real‐time PCR was performed in order to quantify the number of copies of TREC and KREC followed by collection of clinical data from medical files. The children were retrospectively divided into two groups: chronic and nonchronic.ResultsTwenty‐four patients (54%) were classified as nonchronic ITP and 20 patients (46%) were classified as chronic ITP. We confirmed some clinical parameters (e.g., gender, age) but not others (e.g., preceding infection, level of thrombocytopenia) that distinguish patients with chronic and nonchronic course. While KREC quantification was similar in patients regardless the outcome of their disease, it was significantly higher than the level of controls (P < 0.05). TREC quantification was not different between patients and controls.ConclusionsKREC but not TREC levels are different in patients comparing to controls, pointing to an overreaction of B‐cell development as a role in the pathogenesis of ITP. These results may shed more lights on the immune mechanism of ITP.
Proteomic profiling of the hypothalamus in two mouse models of narcolepsy
Authors: Azzam Sausan , Schlatzer Daniela , Nethery David , Saleh Dania , Li Xiaolin , Akladious Afaf , Chance Mark R. , Strohl Kingman P. 
Published: May 2017

Narcolepsy is a disabling neurological disorder of sleepiness linked to the loss of neurons producing orexin neuropeptides in the hypothalamus. Two well‐characterized phenotypic mouse models of narcolepsy, loss‐of‐function (orexin‐knockout), and progressive loss of orexin (orexin/ataxin‐3) exist. The open question is whether the proteomics signatures of the hypothalamus would be different between the two models. To address this gap, we utilized a label‐free proteomics approach and conducted a hypothalamic proteome analysis by comparing each disease model to that of wild type. Following data processing and statistical analysis, 14 484 peptides mapping to 2282 nonredundant proteins were identified, of which 39 proteins showed significant differences in protein expression across groups. Altered proteins in both models showed commonalties in pathways for mitochondrial dysfunction and neuronal degeneration, as well as altered proteins related to inflammatory demyelination, insulin resistance, metabolic responses, and the dopaminergic and monoaminergic systems. Model‐specific alterations in insulin degraded enzyme (IDE) and synaptosomal‐associated protein‐25 were unique to orexin‐KO and orexin/ataxin‐3, respectively. For both models, proteomics not only identified clinically suspected consequences of orexin loss on energy homeostasis and neurotransmitter systems, but also identified commonalities in inflammation and degeneration despite the entirely different genetic basis of the two mouse models.