The status and future of essential geodiversity variables.

Rapid environmental change, natural resource overconsumption and increasing concerns about ecological sustainability have led to the development of 'Essential Variables' (EVs). EVs are harmonized data products to inform policy and to enable effective management of natural resources by monitoring global changes. Recent years have seen the instigation of new EVs beyond those established for climate, oceans and biodiversity (ECVs, EOVs and EBVs), including Essential Geodiversity Variables (EGVs).

Understanding trait diversity: the role of geodiversity.

Geodiversity - the abiotic heterogeneity of Earth's (sub)surface - is gaining recognition for its ecological links to biodiversity. However, theoretical and conceptual knowledge of geodiversity-trait diversity relationships is currently lacking and can improve understanding of abiotic drivers of community assembly. Here we synthesise the state of knowledge of these relationships.

Complications and predisposing factors from a decade of total laryngectomy.

Background: Total laryngectomy is often utilised to manage squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx or hypopharynx. This study reports on surgical trends and outcomes over a 10-year period.

Method: A retrospective review of patients undergoing total laryngectomy for squamous cell carcinoma was performed (n = 173), dividing patients into primary and salvage total laryngectomy cohorts.

Mumps presenting with unilateral, synchronous parotid and submandibular gland swelling.

A previously healthy 22-year-old woman presented with acute, unilateral facial and neck swelling, associated with fever and malaise. She was initially treated with intravenous antibiotics; however, CT imaging showed unilateral, synchronous swelling and inflammation of the parotid and submandibular glands, and a PCR swab from the parotid duct was positive for mumps. She was fully immunised and had no contact in the preceding period with anyone diagnosed with mumps.