bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of patterns of drug levels in head and body hair for medico‐legal and workplace testing
Authors: Tsanaclis Lolita , Nutt James , Bevan Siân , Bagley Kim , Wicks John
Published: December 2022

This paper presents concentration ranges and positivity rates for the common drugs, alcohol markers, new psychoactive substances (NPS) and anabolic steroids tested in head hair (n = 138,352) and body hair (n = 9532) on samples of hair from medico‐legal (n = 112,033) and workplace (n = 35,851) sectors tested in our laboratory. Statistically significant higher levels were found more often in the various types of body hair when compared with head hair, but fewer cases exhibited lower levels. For example, statistically significant higher levels were detected in leg hair for cannabinol, THC, methadone and EtG and in beard hair for THC, THC‐COOH and 6‐acetylmorphine. In contrast, significantly lower levels were detected in axilla hair for cannabinol, THC and for EDDP, but median levels of mephedrone and DHEA were higher. Overall, higher medium levels were detected in head hair samples tested in the UK when compared with those previously published for samples tested in Germany, indicating geographical differences in drug consumption. Recommendations are, firstly, that hair testing laboratories use the results of their own compiled previous positive results for guidance when interpreting hair testing results and, secondly, that laboratories periodically share and combine their accumulated data with other testing laboratories. The latter could be used to establish reference ranges associated with specific technical procedures which would improve interlaboratory comparability and improve laboratory testing services when interpreting hair testing results.
Intelligence‐based doping control planning improves testing effectiveness: Perspectives from a national anti‐doping organisation
Authors: Lauritzen Fredrik , Holden Geir
Published: December 2022

Anti‐doping organisations are mandated to provide a comprehensive anti‐doping programme, which aims to detect, deter and prevent doping in sport. Direct detection of prohibited substances and methods by collection of biological samples from athletes makes up about half of the global anti‐doping budgets but has in the last decade been under critical scrutiny for its lack of efficiency. To ensure optimum detection and deterrence of testing and prevention efforts, a better understanding of doping practices and comparison of different doping test strategies are needed. This study evaluates 17 years of doping test statistics and Anti‐Doping Rule Violations (ADRVs) from the perspectives of a national anti‐doping organisation. A total of 48 709 samples (2865 ± 220 annually) were collected by Anti‐Doping Norway in the period 2003–2019, which resulted in total 216 ADRVs (12.7 ± 3.7 annually), providing an average sample‐to‐ADRV rate of 0.44% when including urine, blood and ABP samples. Most athletes who committed ADRVs were men participating in ball and team or strength sports at a national or recreational level. Few ADRVs were recorded among elite athletes and in most high‐risk sports, despite these groups being subjected to the highest number of doping tests. The number of annual ADRVs did not correlate with the corresponding number of collected doping samples. However, systematic use of intelligence in the test planning process was associated with an increase in ADRVs. Anti‐doping organisations would benefit from improving their target testing capability and to take an intelligence‐led approach in planning doping tests.
Eating behavior in atypical anorexia nervosa
Authors: Jablonski Monica , Schebendach Janet , Walsh B. Timothy , Steinglass Joanna E.
Published: December 2022

Objective

Atypical anorexia nervosa (AN) has been increasingly identified in the community and in clinical settings. Initial studies indicate that psychological symptoms are similar or more severe among patients with atypical AN, as compared with AN. This study examined whether eating behavior differed among patients with AN (n = 98), patients with atypical AN (n = 18), and healthy controls (HC, n = 75).

Method

Adults and adolescents chose what to eat from a standardized, laboratory‐based multi‐item meal. Total intake, macronutrient composition, diet variety, and energy density were compared between groups.

Results

Both AN and atypical AN severely restricted caloric intake as compared with HC (431 ± 396 kcal and 340 ± 338 kcal vs. 879 ± 350 kcal, F2,188 = 35.4, p < .001). Individuals with AN and atypical AN did not differ in the mean intake of total calories or percentage of calories from fat (15.2 ± 25.2% vs. 11.5 ± 16.9%).

Discussion

This study demonstrates that individuals with atypical AN are at least as restrictive in their food intake as individuals with AN, and the restriction of dietary fat is particularly notable. Examination of eating behavior in a larger sample would be useful to replicate these findings. The current study highlights the need to understand maladaptive eating behavior in atypical AN in order to develop appropriate treatment recommendations.

Public Significance

Atypical anorexia nervosa is emerging as a prevalent eating disorder in community and clinical populations. The findings that patients with atypical anorexia nervosa limit calorie and fat intake in a pattern similar to that of patients with anorexia nervosa highlights the need for research to identify appropriate treatment strategies for normalization of eating patterns.
Tree symbioses sustain nitrogen fixation despite excess nitrogen supply
Authors: Menge Duncan N. L. , Wolf Amelia A. , Funk Jennifer L. , Perakis Steven S. , Akana Palani R. , Arkebauer Rachel , Bytnerowicz Thomas A. , Carreras Pereira K. A. , Huddell Alexandra M. , Kou‐Giesbrecht Sian , Ortiz Sarah K.
Published: December 2022

Symbiotic nitrogen fixation (SNF) is a key ecological process whose impact depends on the strategy of SNF regulation—the degree to which rates of SNF change in response to limitation by N versus other resources. SNF that is obligate or exhibits incomplete downregulation can result in excess N fixation, whereas a facultative SNF strategy does not. We hypothesized that tree‐based SNF strategies differed by latitude (tropical vs. temperate) and symbiotic type (actinorhizal vs. rhizobial). Specifically, we expected tropical rhizobial symbioses to display strongly facultative SNF as an explanation of their success in low‐latitude forests. In this study we used 15N isotope dilution field experiments in New York, Oregon, and Hawaii to determine SNF strategies in six N‐fixing tree symbioses. Nitrogen fertilization with +10 and +15 g N m−2 year−1 for 4–5 years alleviated N limitation in all taxa, paving the way to determine SNF strategies. Contrary to our hypothesis, all six of the symbioses we studied sustained SNF even at high N. Robinia pseudoacacia (temperate rhizobial) fixed 91% of its N (%Ndfa) in controls, compared to 64% and 59% in the +10 and +15 g N m−2 year−1 treatments. For Alnus rubra (temperate actinorhizal), %Ndfa was 95%, 70%, and 60%. For the tropical species, %Ndfa was 86%, 80%, and 82% for Gliricidia sepium (rhizobial); 79%, 69%, and 67% for Casuarina equisetifolia (actinorhizal); 91%, 42%, and 67% for Acacia koa (rhizobial); and 60%, 51%, and 19% for Morella faya (actinorhizal). Fertilization with phosphorus did not stimulate tree growth or SNF. These results suggest that the latitudinal abundance distribution of N‐fixing trees is not caused by a shift in SNF strategy. They also help explain the excess N in many forests where N fixers are common.
Research on scale inhibition law of high sulfate mine water based on response surface methodology
Authors: Wang Wen , Cui Jianguo
Published: December 2022

The problem of scale inhibition in thermal power plants using mine water as circulating cooling water is a major focus of current engineering attention. Mine water in North China is predominantly high sulfate mine water, with mine water in Shanxi mines generally having a sulfate content of over 1000 mg/L. Currently, most thermal power plants blindly follow the previous scale inhibitor with carbonate scale as the main scale inhibition target, which leads to a large amount of sulfate scale in its circulating cooling system, which is difficult to remove after the formation of sulfate scale. On the basis of the experiments, the corresponding scale inhibition laws were studied using the response surface method for the water quality characteristics of high sulfate mine water. The scaling process on the heat exchange surface of the circulating cooling water system was simulated by the hanging sheet deposition method, and the quantitative analysis was carried out by the weight method. Using EDTMPS as an example, the scale inhibition law of sulfate‐type scale inhibitors for this type of mine water was systematically investigated. The experiments showed that the scale inhibition rate (reduction of deposited scale after scale inhibitor dosing) reached a peak of 95.21% at a time of 6.1 h, a solution temperature of 70°C and an EDTMPS dosing rate of 6 mg/L.
Bridging the gap between agriculture and climate: Mitigation of nitrous oxide emissions from fertilizers
Authors: Kollar Abbey J.
Published: December 2022

The climate crisis has long been a looming threat. While focus has been on carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide is a potent greenhouse gas with 298 times the warming potential of carbon dioxide and deserves attention. Almost three quarters of nitrous oxide is emitted from agricultural soil management, including the use of nitrogenous fertilizers. The inherent connection between agriculture and climate not only reveals the problems but also the solutions. Managing soil health especially nitrogenous compounds can reduce nitrous oxide emissions, fertilizer input, and costs to farmers. Concerns about climate are directly tied to food production, and a growing population will only exacerbate the situation: approximately half of food production currently relies on fertilizers, and the expected doubling of food demand in the forthcoming years will augment this reliance on fertilizers for sustaining and increasing yields. Now, more than ever, understanding and preserving soil nutrient health with relation to fertilizer use is necessary.

While conservation efforts have been made, there is a lack of attention toward fertilizers and nitrous oxide. This article explores the technological advancements of the field including biotechnology, electrochemistry, enhanced fertilizer products, and farming practices that have the potential to limit fertilizer use, reduce nitrous oxide emissions, and create greener fertilizer production processes. Policy and research gaps are unraveled to reveal that the federal government should address these issues through the following policy recommendations:

Improving Current USDA Conservation Programs. Increasing access to current conservation programs and measuring effectiveness of these programs.

Farm Bill Updates for 2023. Reauthorizing the Farm Bill to include appropriations for market creation and adaptation, increasing nutrient management plans, and standardized labeling.

Expansion of State Fertilizer Programs. Using current state legislation, other states should expand their fertilizer oversight, value land grant universities, and recognize AAPFCO guidance.

Increasing Sustainable Domestic Production of Fertilizers. Decreasing reliance on other nations and controlling production processes for sustainable production.

Congressional Approval for Authorizing EPA Greenhouse Gas Regulation. Clarifying EPA authority on how to regulate greenhouse gas emissions, including nitrous oxide.

These recommendations will allow for the necessary education and oversight of fertilizer production and use and related technologies, which directly impact nitrous oxide production from agricultural soils. While solving the climate crisis is multifaceted, attention must be drawn to the agricultural sector and using practices that reduce nitrous oxide emissions while ensuring crop yields to sustain the population.
Study of phase and physical property changes during gas lift injection of high CO2‐content associated gas in the offshore M oil field
Authors: Chen Huan , Xing Xuesong , Fan Baitao , Yu Jifei , Guo Hua , Wu Zhenghua , Wang Ying , Zhang Manlai
Published: December 2022

The gas lift in the offshore M field will be performed with high CO2‐content associated gas, but the change of wellbore temperature and pressure during the injection process will lead to the change of phase and physical parameters of associated gas, which has a great impact on the design of gas lift. To ensure the smooth implementation of gas lift in the offshore M field, this paper conducts a study on the physical parameters of associated gas considering the change of CO2 phase state. We obtained the density, viscosity, compression factor, constant pressure specific heat capacity, thermal conductivity, and Joule Thomson coefficient at each temperature and pressure by Hysys calculation, and regression analysis to obtain the regression model of the physical parameters; finally, the regression model was compared with the flash experiment and Hysys calculation results. The results show that the CO2 phase change has a large influence on the physical parameters; R2 > 0.8, which indicates that the regression model has sufficient reliability; the results of the comparison show that the empirical formulas of all physical properties have sufficient accuracy and superiority except Joule–Thomson coefficients. In addition, the empirical formula of the Joule–Thomson coefficient also has good accuracy and superiority at the pressure not exceeding 22 MPa. The study of phase changes and physical parameters of associated gas with high CO2 content provides a basis for subsequent gas lift design in the offshore M field and multiphase flow calculations in the wellbore during the gas lift. Although this study is only applicable to this sample, it also provides a feasible research method for other samples.
The effects of the CO2 database on a localized AquaCrop model construction based on a field experiment
Authors: Li Fawen , Song Chunya , Li Hua
Published: December 2022

To examine whether the use of the default CO2 database affected the simulation, this paper built AquaCrop models of winter wheat based on the measured CO2 database and the default CO2 database. The results showed that the maximum relative error (RE) of the simulated values of biomass and yield under both databases was below 4%, and the residual coefficient method (CRM) and normalized root mean square error (NRMSE) were within ±2%. Compared with the default database, the accuracy under the measured database was higher. To further verify the model, the simulated values of evapotranspiration and soil water content were analysed. The results showed that the RE of evapotranspiration was between 2% and 6% compared with the measured value in the seedling, overwintering and mature periods. In general, the simulated values of evapotranspiration were consistent with the measured values at different irrigation levels. The simulated values of the soil water content were all higher than the measured values, but the simulated results basically reflected the dynamic changes in the soil water content. The results showed that in the absence of measured CO2 data, the default CO2 database can be used and the accuracy of the model meets the actual demand.
Cartilage biomechanics: From the basic facts to the challenges of tissue engineering
Authors: Petitjean Noémie , Canadas Patrick , Royer Pascale , Noël Danièle , Le Floc'h Simon
Published: December 2022

Articular cartilage (AC) is the thin tissue that covers the long bone ends in the joints and that ensures the transmission of forces between adjacent bones while allowing nearly frictionless movements between them. AC repair is a technologic and scientific challenge that has been addressed with numerous approaches. A major deadlock is the capacity to take in account its complex mechanical properties in repair strategies. In this review, we first describe the major mechanical behaviors of AC for the non‐specialists. Then, we show how researchers have progressively identified specific mechanical parameters using mathematical models. There are still gaps in our understanding of some of the observations concerning AC biomechanical properties, particularly the differences in extracellular matrix stiffness measured at the microscale and at the millimetric scale. Nevertheless, for bioengineering applications, AC repair strategies must take into account what are commonly considered the main mechanical features of cartilage: its ability to withstand high stresses through three main behaviors (elasticity, poroelasticity and swelling). Finally, we emphasize that future studies need to investigate AC mechanical properties at different scales, particularly the gradient of mechanical properties around cells and across the cartilage depth, and the differences in mechanical properties at different scales. This multi‐scale approach could greatly enhance the success of AC restorative approaches.
Unraveling the mechanisms of inhibition of silver‐doped bioactiveglass–ceramicparticles
Authors: Pajares‐Chamorro Natalia , Lensmire Josh M. , Hammer Neal D. , Hardy Jonathan W. , Chatzistavrou Xanthippi
Published: December 2022

Infections are a major concern in orthopedics. Antibacterial agents such as silver ions are of great interest as broad‐spectrum biocides and have been incorporated into bioactive glass–ceramic particles to control the release of ions within a therapeutic concentration and provide tissue regenerative properties. In this work, the antibacterial capabilities of silver‐doped bioactive glass (Ag‐BG) microparticles were explored to reveal the unedited mechanisms of inhibition against methicillin‐resistantStaphylococcus aureus(MRSA). The antibacterial properties were not limited to the delivery of silver ions but rather a combination of antibacterial degradation by‐products. For example, nano‐sized debris punctured holes in bacteria membranes, osmotic effects, and reactive oxygen species causing oxidative stress and almost 40% of the inhibition. Upon successive Ag‐BG treatments, MRSA underwent phenotypic and genomic mutations which were not only insufficient to develop resistance but instead, the clones became more sensitive as the treatment was re‐delivered. Additionally, the unprecedented restorative functionality of Ag‐BG allowed the effective use of antibiotics that MRSA resists. The synergy mechanism was mainly identified for combinations targeting cell‐wall activity and their action was proven in biofilm‐like and virulent conditions. Unraveling these mechanisms may offer new insights into how to tailor healthcare materials to prevent or debilitate infections and join the fight against antibiotic resistance in clinical cases.
In vitro and in vivo effect of novel GA‐CSNPs loaded col‐fibrin nanocomposite scaffold on diabetic wound healing
Authors: Kaparekar Pallavi Shyam , Anandasadagopan Suresh Kumar
Published: December 2022

A non‐healing wound is a common problem associated with diabetes mellitus. Chronic inflammation, challenging re‐epithelization, unusual growth factors, and impaired angiogenesis are the multifactorial events that contribute to impaired wounds. Hence, in the present work, an innovative GA‐CSNPs nanocomposite scaffold has been fabricated by integrating Gallic acid (GA) loaded chitosan nanoparticles (GA‐CSNPs) into a genipin crosslinked collagen‐fibrin (Col‐fibrin) scaffold as wound dressing material. The in vitro RT‐PCR study carried out using NIH/3T3 mouse fibroblast cells showed that treatment with GA‐CSNPs nanocomposite scaffold aids in an upsurge in the expression of Col‐I, III, and VEGF, which further supports the synthesis of extracellular matrix, increases neovascularization and development of the established vascular system. In vivo wound contraction study results revealed that diabetic wounds treated with GA‐CSNPs nanocomposite scaffold show a faster rate of wound closure (p < .001), histopathology results showed accelerated fibroblast cell migration, reduction of the inflammatory cells, enhanced collagen along with hexosamine synthesis. In addition, immunohistochemistry results showed increased vascularization, a significant decrease in macrophage recruitment, and reduced expression of MMP‐9 compared to the Col‐fibrin scaffold and Control groups. Overall data suggest that the fabricated GA‐CSNPs nanocomposite porous 3‐D scaffold can be a hopeful therapeutic choice for diabetic wound management.
Reduction of New Heterotopic Ossification (HO) in the Open‐Label, Phase 3 MOVE Trial of Palovarotene for Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP)
Authors: Pignolo Robert J. , Hsiao Edward C. , Al Mukaddam Mona , Baujat Geneviève , Berglund Staffan K. , Brown Matthew A. , Cheung Angela M. , De Cunto Carmen , Delai Patricia , Haga Nobuhiko , Kannu Peter , Keen Richard , Le Quan Sang Kim‐Hanh , Mancilla Edna E. , Marino Rose , Strahs Andrew , Kaplan Frederick S.
Published: December 2022

Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) is an ultra‐rare, severely disabling genetic disorder of progressive heterotopic ossification (HO). The single‐arm, open‐label, phase 3 MOVE trial (NCT03312634) assessed efficacy and safety of palovarotene, a selective retinoic acid receptor gamma agonist, in patients with FOP. Findings were compared with FOP natural history study (NHS; NCT02322255) participants untreated beyond standard of care. Patients aged ≥4 years received palovarotene once daily (chronic: 5 mg; flare‐up: 20 mg for 4 weeks, then 10 mg for ≥8 weeks; weight‐adjusted if skeletally immature). The primary endpoint was annualized change in new HO volume versus NHS participants (by low‐dose whole‐body computed tomography [WBCT]), analyzed using a Bayesian compound Poisson model (BcPM) with square‐root transformation. Twelve‐month interim analyses met futility criteria; dosing was paused. An independent Data Monitoring Committee recommended trial continuation. Post hoc 18‐month interim analyses utilized BcPM with square‐root transformation and HO data collapsed to equalize MOVE and NHS visit schedules, BcPM without transformation, and weighted linear mixed‐effects (wLME) models, alongside prespecified analysis. Safety was assessed throughout. Eighteen‐month interim analyses included 97 MOVE and 101 NHS individuals with post‐baseline WBCT. BcPM analyses without transformation showed 99.4% probability of any reduction in new HO with palovarotene versus NHS participants (with transformation: 65.4%). Mean annualized new HO volume was 60% lower in MOVE versus the NHS. wLME results were similar (54% reduction fitted; nominal p = 0.039). All palovarotene‐treated patients reported ≥1 adverse event (AE); 97.0% reported ≥1 retinoid‐associated AE; 29.3% reported ≥1 serious AE, including premature physeal closure (PPC)/epiphyseal disorder in 21/57 (36.8%) patients aged <14 years. Post hoc computational analyses using WBCT showed decreased vertebral bone mineral density, content, and strength, and increased vertebral fracture risk in palovarotene‐treated patients. Thus, post hoc analyses showed evidence for efficacy of palovarotene in reducing new HO in FOP, but high risk of PPC in skeletally immature patients. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Micromorphological studies of the leaf and stem of Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze with reference to their taxonomic significance
Authors: Das Priyanka , Chettri Vivek , Ghosh Sandipan , Ghosh Chandra
Published: December 2022

The micro‐morphological examinations of the leaf lamina, petiole and stem for Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze (Theaceae) was carried out using a variety of microscopic techniques widely implemented in the area of medicine. The objective of this study was the micromorphological characterization of stem, petiole, lamina, stomata, leaf trichomes and other internal characters. The anatomical studies included the cross section of stem and leaf of Camellia sinensis thereby exhibiting a typical pattern of arrangement of tissues similar to woody plants. Some idioblastic sclereids like astrosclereids, osteosclereids were found in the medullary parenchyma of tea stem and leaf. Large numbers of sclereids were found mainly in the parenchymatous tissue of leaf petiole. Other micro‐morphological features like trichomes, stomata, and different tissue layer were also recorded. The leaf trichomes were unicellular, long and densely present in the lower surface of immature leaf but a decrease in amount of trichomes was seen in the mature leaf making it a prime taxonomic feature of the tea leaf. The microscopic morphological analysis of the stem, petiole, lamina, stomata, leaf trichomes of Camellia sinensis can be used for its identification. In addition, these techniques can be further implemented for the taxonomic characterization thereby establishing a genetic relationship and solving taxonomic disputes in the field of plant systematics.
Synthesis and analysis of isotopically stable labeled nitrosamines as mass spectrometry standards for drug impurity quality control
Authors: Derdau Volker , Sandvoss Martin
Published: December 2022

We describe a simple and easy pathway to synthesize nitrosamine mass spectrometry standards in good to moderate yields. N‐alkylation of Boc‐protected primary or secondary amines using stable isotope labeled alkyl halides yielded the key intermediates that were deprotected, and then, the nitrosamine was formed with sodium nitrite and sodium hydrogensulfate. Special attention to safety, disposal of waste, and surface cleaning was carried throughout.
Multishot Diffusion‐Weighted MRI of the Breasts in the Supine vs. Prone Position
Authors: Moran Catherine J. , Middione Matthew J. , Mazzoli Valentina , McKay‐Nault Jessica A. , Guidon Arnaud , Waheed Uzma , Rosen Eric L. , Poplack Steven P. , Rosenberg Jarrett , Ennis Daniel B. , Hargreaves Brian A. , Daniel Bruce L.
Published: December 2022

Background

Diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) may allow for breast cancer screening MRI without a contrast injection. Multishot methods improve prone DWI of the breasts but face different challenges in the supine position.

Purpose

To establish a multishot DWI (msDWI) protocol for supine breast MRI and to evaluate the performance of supine vs. prone msDWI.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

Protocol optimization: 10 healthy women (ages 22–56), supine vs. prone: 24 healthy women (ages 22–62) and five women (ages 29–61) with breast tumors.

Field Strength/Sequence

3‐T, protocol optimization msDWI: free‐breathing (FB) 2‐shots, FB 4‐shots, respiratory‐triggered (RT) 2‐shots, RT 4‐shots, supine vs. prone: RT 4‐shot msDWI, T2‐weighted fast‐spin echo.

Assessment

Protocol optimization and supine vs. prone: three observers performed an image quality assessment of sharpness, aliasing, distortion (vs. T2), perceived SNR, and overall image quality (scale of 1–5). Apparent diffusion coefficients (ADCs) in fibroglandular tissue (FGT) and breast tumors were measured.

Statistical Tests

Effect of study variables on dichotomized ratings (4/5 vs. 1/2/3) and FGT ADCs were assessed with mixed‐effects logistic regression. Interobserver agreement utilized Gwet's agreement coefficient (AC). Lesion ADCs were assessed by Bland–Altman analysis and concordance correlation (ρc). P value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Protocol optimization: 4‐shots significantly improved sharpness and distortion; RT significantly improved sharpness, aliasing, perceived SNR, and overall image quality. FGT ADCs were not significantly different between shots (P = 0.812), FB vs. RT (P = 0.591), or side (P = 0.574). Supine vs. prone: supine images were rated significantly higher for sharpness, aliasing, and overall image quality. FGT ADCs were significantly higher supine; lesion ADCs were highly correlated (ρc = 0.92).

Data Conclusion

Based on image quality, supine msDWI outperformed prone msDWI. Lesion ADCs were highly correlated between the two positions, while FGT ADCs were higher in the supine position.

Evidence Level

2.

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1.
Ultrasound‐Based Grading System for Radiation‐Induced Acute Breast Toxicity
Authors: Wang Jing , Zhou Boran , Yang Xiaofeng , Tridandapani Srini , Lin Jolinta , Torres Mylin A. , Liu Tian
Published: December 2022

Objectives

To introduce an ultrasound‐based scoring system for radiation‐induced breast toxicity and test its reliability.

Methods

Breast ultrasound (BUS) was performed on 32 patients receiving breast radiotherapy (RT) to assess the radiation‐induced acute toxicity. For each patient, both the untreated and irradiated breasts were scanned at five locations: 12:00, 3:00, 6:00, 9:00, and tumor bed to evaluate for heterogenous responses to radiation within the entire breast. In total, 314 images were analyzed. Based on ultrasound findings such as skin thickening, dermis boundary irregularity, and subcutaneous edema, a 4‐level, Likert‐like grading scheme is proposed: none (G0), mild (G1), moderate (G2), and severe (G3) toxicity. Two ultrasound experts graded the severity of breast toxicity independently and reported the inter‐ and intra‐observer reliability of the grading system. Imaging findings were compared with standard clinical toxicity assessments using Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE).

Results

The inter‐observer Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC) was 0.87 (95% CI: 0.83–0.90,P < .001). For intra‐observer repeatability, the PCC of the repeated scores was 0.83 (95% CI: 0.78–0.87,P < .001). Imaging findings were compared with standard clinical toxicity assessments using CTCAE scales. The PCC between BUS scores and CTCAE results was 0.62 (95% CI: 0.35–0.80,P < .001). Among all locations, 6:00 and tumor bed showed significantly greater toxicity compared with 12:00 (P = .04).

Conclusions

BUS can investigate the cutaneous and subcutaneous tissue changes after RT. This BUS‐based grading system can complement subjective clinical assessments of radiation‐induced breast toxicity with cutaneous and subcutaneous sonographic information.
Does Ultrasound Guidance Provide Pain Relief During Intrauterine Contraceptive Device Insertion? A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Baradwan Saeed , Alshahrani Majed Saeed , Alnoury Albaraa , Khadawardi Khalid , Khan Mahmoud Anis , Abdelkader Rehab Abdelkhalek Ahmed , Saleh Ola I. , Galal Heba Mohammed , Mohamed Suzan Mohamed Abdelkareem , Abdelhakim Ahmed Mohamed , Elgedawy Asmaa M. , Elbahie Amira M. , Gaber Mostafa A. , Magdy Amr Ahmed , Shaheen Kareem
Published: December 2022

Objective

To evaluate ultrasound guidance effect in pain relief during intrauterine device (IUD) insertion.

Methods

Four different databases were searched from inception till June 2022. We selected randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared transabdominal ultrasound guidance versus traditional non‐guided IUD insertion among women undergoing IUD placement for contraception. We used Revman software during performing our meta‐analysis. Our primary outcome was the pain score during IUD insertion as evaluated by the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Our secondary outcomes were the procedure insertion time, satisfaction, and incidences of complications and misplaced IUDs.

Results

Seven RCTs were retrieved with a total number of 1267 patients. There was a significant reduction in the VAS pain score during IUD insertion among the ultrasound‐guided group (MD = −1.91, 95% CI [−3.08, −0.73], P = .001). The procedure insertion time was significantly shorter within the ultrasound guidance group compared with the control group (MD = −1.35, 95% CI [−1.81, −0.88], P < .001). Moreover, more women were significantly satisfied with the procedure among the ultrasound‐guided group (P < .001). In addition, ultrasound‐guided IUD insertion was linked to significant decline in incidences of complications and misplaced IUDs.

Conclusion

Ultrasound guidance can be used as a modified technique during IUD insertion as it decreases pain, procedure time, and rates of complications and misplaced IUDs with better patient satisfaction.
Endonasal skull base repair with a vascularised pedicled temporo‐parietal myo‐fascial flap
Authors: Land Thomas , Silva Dulanka , Paluzzi Alessandro , Tsermoulas Georgios , Ahmed Shahzada
Published: December 2022

Objective

Expanded endonasal approaches (EEAs) to the skull base have increased the scope and extent of pathologies that can be treated endoscopically. The trade‐off is creation of large skull base bone defects requiring reconstruction to re‐establish barriers between the sino‐nasal mucosa and subarachnoid space to prevent CSF leak and infection. A popular reconstructive technique is the local vascularized pedicled naso‐septal flap, an option that may not always be possible when there is disruption of the vascular pedicle from multiple previous surgeries, adjuvant radiotherapy or extensive tumor infiltration. An alternative is the regional temporo‐parietal fascial flap (TPFF) transposed via the trans‐pterygoid route. We implemented a modification of this technique incorporating contralateral temporalis muscle at the tip of this flap and deeper vascularised pericranial layers within the pedicle to provide a more robust flap in selected cases.

Study design/methods

A retrospective review of two cases is presented with both patients having undergone multiple EEAs to resect skull base tumors with adjuvant radiotherapy, their postoperative courses complicated by recalcitrant CSF leaks resistant to multiple surgeries.

Results

Our patients had their persistent CSF fistulae repaired using infra‐temporal transposition of the TPFF modified to include some of the contralateral temporalis muscle with optimisation of a vascular pedicle: a temporo‐parietal temporalis myo‐fascial flap (TPTMFF). Both CSF leaks resolved without further complication.

Conclusion

In situations where local flap repair to reconstruct skull‐base defects following EEA may not be viable or has failed, a modified regional flap incorporating temporo‐parietal fascia with a preserved vascular pedicle along with attached temporalis muscle plug may provide a robust alternative option.
Fast Response and Visual Transparency Switching Hydrochromic Film Based on the Rational Structure of Cellulose/Poloxamer Copolymers Design for Smart Window
Authors: Guo Yuqian , An Xianhui , Qian Xueren
Published: December 2022

The authors are motivated to develop a series of hydrochromic copolymers with fast response, reversibility, repeatability, and visual transparency transition. The hydrochromic block copolymers are based on the rational ratio of hydrophilic segments of poloxamer block and hydrophobic segments of ethyl cellulose according to the preparation method of polyurethane. By tuning the ratio of hydrophilic segments or adding hygroscopic salts, the hydrochromic polymer is endowed with the ability to visualize the transparency in response to the relative humidity. Especially, the response time of the polymer is extremely shortened, up to 1 s for the optimized sample. Within the moisture stimulation, the hygroscopic swelling increases the film thickness, leading to a reversible transparency switching from a highly transparent state (82%) to an opaque white state (20.5%).
Triangular Heteroporous Covalent Organic Framework via a K‐Shaped “Two‐in‐One” Monomer: Targeted Synthesis and Selective Removal of Organic Pollutants
Authors: Zhang Jingwen , Yan Xiaoli , Chen Pei , Chen Dan , Yang Zongfan , Wang Jianhui , Chen Long
Published: December 2022

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have attracted increasing research interest due to their intriguing topological structures and fascinating properties. Diverse COFs with different shapes and sizes are developed by the design of appropriate building blocks. However, the heteroporous COFs to date are still in their infancy due to the relatively limited configuration of precursors. Herein, it is ingeniously designed and synthesized a new K‐shaped “two‐in‐one” building unit (3',6'‐bis(4‐(5,5‐dimethyl‐1,3‐dixoan‐2‐yl)phenyl)‐[1,1':2',1"‐terphenyl]‐4,4"‐diamine, BPTD), thus realizing the construction of triangular dual microporous COF (BPTD‐COF) via self‐polycondensation of the K‐shaped monomer. The super micropore (0.76 nm) of BPTD‐COF endows the higher density of amine activity sites, while the other aperture size (1.35 nm) meets the need for accommodating cationic dyes (rhodamine B, methylene blue), thus BPTD‐COF displays a distinctive selective adsorption for cationic dyes with good reusability.
Mental Health Weekly revisits key moments for the mental health field in 2022
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: December 2022

As a new year gets underway, Mental Health Weekly looks back at some noteworthy moments in the field. In 2022, one of the most highly anticipated programs for the field was the 988 mental health and suicide prevention crisis hotline, launched July 15, 2022. Congress designated the new 988 dialing code to be operated through the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
Miniaturized tri‐wideband antenna loaded with metamaterial meander lines
Authors: Ghasri Hooshmand , Nourinia Javad , Ghobadi Changiz , Naderali Rahim
Published: December 2022

Here presents a new miniaturized tri‐wideband antenna loaded with metamaterial meander lines. The antenna consists of a rectangular radiation patch loaded with two compact metamaterial components. The three frequency bands are the results of resonances of a rectangular patch at 5.5 GHz, interdigital meander slit at 3.6 GHz, and virtual grounded thin meander stub at 7.5 GHz. More size miniaturization is accomplished by a compact virtual ground structure and cutting the upper and left edges of the substrate. Furthermore, matching at all bands is improved by taking advantage of stepped microstrip feed line and truncated rectangular ground plane. Measured results shows the frequency ranges of 3.32–4.06 GHz (20%), 5.17–6.06 GHz (16%), and 7.17–10.32 (36%). The antenna is analyzed with an equivalent circuit model. In comparison to previous works, this antenna has a simple design, very compact size of 10 mm × 15 mm × 0.8 mm, three wide working bands, and matching levels better than −20 dB at all resonant frequencies.
Prediction of adaptive strategies based on deformation vector field features for MR‐guided adaptive radiotherapy of prostate cancer
Authors: Xia Wen‐Long , Liang Bin , Men Kuo , Zhang Ke , Tian Yuan , Li Ming‐Hui , Lu Ning‐Ning , Li Ye‐Xiong , Dai Jian‐Rong
Published: December 2022

Background

The selection of adaptive strategies in MR‐guided adaptive radiotherapy (MRgART) usually relies on subjective review of anatomical changes. However, this kind of review may lead to improper selection of adaptive strategy for some fractions.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to develop prediction models based on deformation vector field (DVF) features for automatic and accurate strategy selection, using prostate cancer as an example.

Methods

100 fractions of 20 prostate cancer patients were retrospectively selected in this study. Treatment plans using both adapt to position (ATP) strategy and adapt to shape (ATS) strategy were generated. Optimal adaptive strategy was determined according to dosimetric evaluation. DVFs of the deformable image registration (DIR) of daily MRI and CT simulation scans were extracted. The shape, first order statistics, and spatial features were extracted from the DVFs, subjected to further selection using the minimum redundancy maximum relevance (mRMR) method. The number of features (Fn) was hyper‐tuned using bootstrapping method, and then Fn indicating a peak area under the curve (AUC) value was used to construct three prediction models.

Results

According to subjective review, the ATS strategy was adopted for all 100 fractions. However, the evaluation results showed that the ATP strategy could have met the clinical requirements for 23 (23%) fractions. The three prediction models showed high prediction performance, with the best performing model achieving an AUC value of 0.896, corresponding accuracy (ACC), sensitivity (SEN) and specificity (SPC) of 0.9, 0.958, and 0.667, respectively. The features used to construct prediction models included four features extracted from y direction of DVF (DVFy) and mask, one feature from z direction of DVF (DVFz). It indicated that the deformation along the anterior‐posterior direction had a greater impact on determining the adaptive strategy than other directions.

Conclusions

DVF‐feature‐based models could accurately predict the adaptive strategy and avoid unnecessary selection of time‐consuming ATS strategy, which consequently improves the efficiency of the MRgART process.
Studium und Krieg
Authors: Kuschmitz Paul
Published: December 2022

Es kamen weniger ukrainischen Studierende nach Deutschland als vermutet.
A kernel‐based pseudo‐spectral method for multi‐term and distributed order time‐fractional diffusion equations
Authors: Fardi Mojtaba
Published: December 2022

In this paper, we focus on the study of a kernel‐based method in pseudo‐spectral (PS) mode for multi‐term and distributed order time‐fractional diffusion equations. Using the theory of reproducing kernel, reproducing kernel functions will be established in reproducing kernel Hilbert space. In the proposed method, a finite difference scheme is used in temporal space to achieve a semi‐discrete configuration. Then, with the help of the kernel‐based PS method, we will illustrate how to derive the numerical solution. Finally, to support the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method, we provide several numerical examples. In numerical experiments, the quality of the approximation is calculated by absolute error and discrete error norms.
Recovery of the time‐dependent zero‐order coefficient in a fourth‐order parabolic problem
Authors: Cao Kai
Published: December 2022

The determination of an unknown time‐dependent zero‐order coefficient in a fourth‐order parabolic problem is investigated form the integral‐type observation in this paper. Under certain assumptions, the well‐posedness of the weak solution to the inverse problem is obtained. Furthermore, its global solvability can be proved by applying some transformations. For the numerical reconstruction of the unknown coefficient, three methods are established, including the transformations used above, the time‐discrete method with the cubic spline function method, and the optimization method. The convergence and error estimates for the time‐discrete method are derived rigorously. Furthermore, the corresponding predictor–corrector scheme is introduced to determine the unknown quantity numerically. For the optimization method, the minimizer of the objective functional is applied to approximate the unknown coefficient. The convergence rates of the optimization problem is proved under some suitable source condition. In addition, the Fréchet derivative of the objective functional is obtained and utilized to establish the conjugate gradient algorithm. The numerical example shows that all the three methods can be applied to numerically recover the unknown quantity efficiently.
Off‐label and compassionate use of targeted anticancer therapies: The experience of an Italian pediatric cancer center
Authors: Cenna Rosita , Basiricò Marco , Berchialla Paola , Bertorello Nicoletta , Cagnazzo Celeste , Ceolin Valeria , De Luna Elvira , Nolis Chiara , Resente Francesca , Fagioli Franca
Published: December 2022

Introduction

In Europe, despite recent advances in clinical development, most of the drugs currently used to treat childhood cancers are adult medicines, prescribed outside of the authorized indication. In this context, a monocentric retrospective cohort analysis was conducted, evaluating pediatric, adolescent, and young adult patients affected by onco‐hematologic disease, treated with targeted therapies used off‐label or as compassionate use.

Methods

The analysis was conducted on 45 patients aged less than or equal to 30 years with cancer, having received at least one targeted therapy prescribed as off‐label or compassionate use at a large Italian pediatric center between January 1, 2016 and June 30, 2021. Data collected included information on the patient and tumor, data on off‐label/compassionate treatment, and data on safety and efficacy.

Results

Total 25 out of 45 patients treated with off‐label or compassionate targeted therapies were affected by onco‐hematological diseases. Overall, 22 out of the 52 agents (42%) were prescribed in patients with relapsed neoplasm and 39% (20/52) in patients with refractory diseases. Complete response was observed in more than half (27/52) of treatments. At least one adverse reaction occurred in 76% (n = 22) of agents administered to patients with onco‐hematological tumor and in 43% (n = 10) of agents prescribed to patients with solid tumor.

Conclusion

This work aims to provide a snapshot of off‐label and compassionate use prescriptions in a large Italian pediatric cancer center. This study confirms that targeted agents for unauthorized indications are often prescribed in pediatric patients with cancer, especially after disease relapse and that these treatments are mostly tolerable and effective.
Side effects following COVID‐19 vaccination in pediatric patients with sickle cell disease
Authors: Belsky Jennifer A. , Carroll Whitney R. , Feliciano Anna , Jacob Seethal A.
Published: December 2022

Vulnerable patient populations have seen decreased rates of vaccination against SARS‐CoV2‐19 (COVID‐19) due to hesitancies and distrust, magnified by a paucity of data for certain populations. The rate of COVID‐19 vaccination in children with sickle cell disease (SCD) remains low despite the risk for severe complications, resulting in continued infections and hospitalizations from COVID‐19. We sought to describe vaccine reactions, including vaso‐occlusive crises, emergency department visits, and hospitalizations, in children with SCD. Our findings will start to provide the necessary vaccine side effect data to inform patients, caregivers, and clinicians considering the COVID‐19 primary vaccination series.
Information disclosure to cancer patients in Mainland China: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Chen Chuqian , Cheng Guobin , Chen Xiaoying , Yu Lingling
Published: December 2022

Objective

This study aims to systematically examine Chinese cancer patients' and families' preferences for information disclosure to the patient, patient awareness, and predictors of patient awareness.

Methods

The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines were followed. Web of Science, Scopus, Proquest, Taylor & Francis Online, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure were searched in April 2022 and Chinese Biomedical Literature Database in July 2022 for quantitative studies. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool was used for quality assessment.

Results

A total of 22 studies were included, and the average quality score was 0.65/1. Meta‐analyses showed that 89.6% and 81.8% of cancer patients wanted to know their diagnosis and prognosis, respectively. Meanwhile, 50.0% and 32.4% of families prefer diagnosis disclosure and prognosis disclosure to the patient, respectively. Significantly more patients than families favored disclosure to the patient. In reality, only 59.3% of cancer patients know their diagnosis, and 19.9% know their prognosis. For predictors, while patients' gender, cancer type (breast cancer or not), treatment method (operation or other), or complications (yes or no) do not influence diagnosis awareness, being younger, being married, having higher educational attainment, having early‐stage rather than late‐stage cancer, and being in a higher‐grade hospital all predict better chances of knowing a diagnosis. No study explored predictors of patients' prognosis awareness. The findings did not vary according to publication time or sample size.

Conclusions

Chinese cancer patients are eager to know their diagnosis and prognosis, but families are hesitant about disclosure to the patient, and patients' awareness is low. While cultural, legal, and medical backgrounds lay the foundation for information disclosure in Mainland China, case‐by‐case practical factors also make a difference.