Incidence of audiologic or otolaryngologic evaluation in patients with external ear anomalies.

PURPOSE: The relationship between specific external ear anomalies (EEA) and hearing loss has been previously described. However, there is no literature regarding the appropriate evaluation of patients with EEA by audiology or otolaryngology. The objective of this study was to determine the incidence of audiologic or otolaryngologic evaluation of patients with EEA. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective review of charts was conducted following approval from the institutional review board at Boston Medical Center. Charts of patients younger than 18 years old with EEA, identified using International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-9 codes 380-380.99, 744, and 744.4 and ICD-10 codes H61.90-92, Q16.0-16.9, Q17.0-17.9, Q18.0-18.2, from January 2012 to January 2019 were reviewed. Primary variables included incidence of audiologic and otolaryngologic evaluation, newborn hearing screen and audiometry results, and completion of surgical intervention. Binary logistic regressions were conducted for each group for diagnostic, procedural, and demographic characteristics. RESULTS: A total of 723 patients were diagnosed with EEA from January 2012 to January 2019. Of these patients, 327 (45.2 %) were evaluated by audiology and 327 (45.2 %) were evaluated by otolaryngology. Of the 364 patients who obtained audiograms, 63 (17.3 %) demonstrated hearing loss. Surgical procedures were performed on 119 (16.5 %) patients, with the most common procedure being excision of the EEA (n = 79, 66.4 %). A total of 468 patients had a documented newborn hearing screen. Failure of newborn hearing screen and presence of microtia were associated with increased otolaryngologic and audiologic evaluation. CONCLUSIONS: A majority of patients with EEAs do not obtain audiologic or otolaryngologic evaluation.

Novel cryotherapy technique for pulpotomy in mature permanent teeth with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis- a randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the effect of cryotherapy on haemostasis, post-operative pain, and the outcome of full pulpotomy performed in mature permanent teeth with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included sixty mature permanent mandibular molar teeth with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis and no periapical rarefaction. After coronal pulp tissue amputation, teeth were randomly allocated to one of two groups (n = 30 each). In group I (conventional pulpotomy), a sterile cotton pellet moistened with 2.5% NaOCl was used for haemostasis. In group II (cryotherapy), the pulp chamber was continuously lavaged with 2.50C normal saline solution for haemostasis using an indigenous portable cryotherapy irrigation unit. Following haemostasis, the pulp was capped with mineral trioxide aggregate and the tooth was restored with resin composite. The time taken to achieve haemostasis was recorded. Preoperative and 24, 48 and 72 h postoperative pain was measured using the Numerical Rating Scale. The pulpotomy outcome was assessed at the 12-month follow-up. Data were analyzed using Fischer's exact test, two-sample t-test, two-sample Wilcoxon rank-sum test, Friedman Test, and Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test. RESULTS: The cryotherapy group achieved haemostasis in less time (p < 0.05). There was a significant pain reduction at 24 and 48 h in the cryotherapy group when compared with the conventional pulpotomy group (P < 0.005). The overall success rate of pulpotomy after 12 months was 88% (n = 22) in both study groups(p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Cryotherapy application reduces postoperative pain and has no adverse effect on the outcome of pulpotomy in permanent teeth with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The cryotherapy can be incorporated in pulpotomy protocol as an adjunct to minimize post-operative pain.

Bioinspiration and biomimetics in marine robotics: a review on current applications and future trends.

Over the past few years, the research community has witnessed a burgeoning interest in biomimetics, particularly within the marine sector. The study of biomimicry as a revolutionary remedy for numerous commercial and research-based marine businesses has been spurred by the difficulties presented by the harsh maritime environment. Biomimetic marine robots are at the forefront of this innovation by imitating various structures and behaviors of marine life and utilizing the evolutionary advantages and adaptations these marine organisms have developed over millennia to thrive in harsh conditions. This thorough examination explores current developments and research efforts in biomimetic marine robots based on their propulsion mechanisms. By examining these biomimetic designs, the review aims to solve the mysteries buried in the natural world and provide vital information for marine improvements. In addition to illuminating the complexities of these bio-inspired mechanisms, the investigation helps to steer future research directions and possible obstacles, spurring additional advancements in the field of biomimetic marine robotics. Considering the revolutionary potential of using nature's inventiveness to navigate and thrive in one of the most challenging environments on Earth, the current review's conclusion urges a multidisciplinary approach by integrating robotics and biology. The field of biomimetic marine robotics not only represents a paradigm shift in our relationship with the oceans, but it also opens previously unimaginable possibilities for sustainable exploration and use of marine resources by understanding and imitating nature's solutions.