bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prescribing Activities that Engage Passive Residents: An Innovative Method
Authors: Buettner Linda , Kolanowski Ann
Published: December 2008

Individuals with dementia are often passive, which places them at risk for further cognitive and functional decline. Recreational activities have been used in research to reduce passive behaviors, but systematic reviews of these studies have found modest effect sizes for many activities. In this article, we describe the further theoretical development of an innovative method for prescribing activities that have a high likelihood of engaging nursing home residents who are passive and present examples for research application and clinical practice. This method may increase the effect size of activity interventions and encourage more widespread adoption of nonpharmacological interventions in practice.
Nursing Student Medication Errors: A Retrospective Review
Authors: Harding Lorill , Petrick Teresa
Published: December 2008

This article presents the findings of a retrospective review of medication errors made and reported by nursing students in a 4-year baccalaureate program. Data were examined in relation to the semester of the program, kind of error according to the rights of medication administration, and contributing factors. Three categories of contributing factors were identified: rights violations, system factors, and knowledge and understanding. It became apparent that system factors, or the context in which medication administration takes place, are not fully considered when students are taught about medication administration. Teaching strategies need to account for the dynamic complexity of this process and incorporate experiential knowledge. This review raised several important questions about how this information guides our practice as educators in the clinical and classroom settings and how we can work collaboratively with practice partners to influence change and increase patient safety.
The Virtual Clinical Evaluation Tool
Authors: Sander Rebecca , Trible Karen A.
Published: December 2008

Two years ago, faculty and students at this rural university setting collaborated to implement a virtual clinical evaluation tool. In recognition of the frustrations involved in coordinating instructor and student input to a hard copy tool, a virtual clinical evaluation tool was created in the form of an Excel
®
spreadsheet. Excel documents have the advantage of immediate retrieval and use by instructors or students, ease of narration by word processing, automatic mathematical computation of formative and summative scores, and data storage through computer archives. Using the online Blackboard
®
course, students and instructors are able to collaboratively input a Likert score for each posted evaluation outcome and word process-related comments about students' clinical performance. An overview of the 2-year implementation of this virtual clinical evaluation tool, as well as the evaluation process, is discussed.
Role of Intravenous Fluorescein Angiography in Early Detection and Regression of Retinopathy of Prematurity
Authors: Azad Rajvardhan , Chandra Parijat , Khan Mansoor Ali , Darswal Aparna
Published: December 2008

Purpose:
To study the role of intravenous fluorescein angiography in early detection and regression of retinopathy of prematurity.

Methods:
The Retcam 120 (Massie Research Laboratories, Dublin, CA) was used to perform intravenous fluorescein angiography in 40 eyes of 20 children diagnosed as having treatable retinopathy of prematurity as per Early Treatment for Retinopathy of Prematurity Cooperative Group guidelines and treated with laser photocoagulation.

Results:
Fluorescein angiography enabled easy visualization of the retinal vasculature and helped to identify early flat neovascularization in zone 1/2 retinopathy of prematurity, detect previously missed areas of active retinopathy of prematurity in the peripheral retina, and identify skip areas following laser photocoagulation, which resulted in good management outcomes. There were no side effects related to sodium fluorescein or the procedure.

Conclusions:
Retcam-assisted intravenous fluorescein angiography is safe and helps in the early diagnosis, prompt management, and complete regression of retinopathy of prematurity.
Posterior Synechiae Secondary to Uveitis
Authors: Walton David S. , Mutlukan Erkan , Papaliodis George N. , Chen Teresa C.
Published: December 2008

The Images in Pediatric Ophthalmology column is a 1-page photo essay showing encounters in the field of pediatric ophthalmology.
Long-Term Results of Lensectomy in Children With Ectopia Lentis
Authors: Kim So Young , Choung Ho Kyung , Kim Seong Joon , Yu Young Suk
Published: December 2008

Purpose:
To report the clinical features and long-term visual results in children with ectopia lentis after lensectomy.

Methods:
A retrospective analysis was performed with the records of 78 eyes of 42 patients operated on and observed for at least 3 years.

Results:
Mean age at diagnosis was 4.6 years, mean age at surgery was 5.7 years, and follow-up period was an average of 7.1 years. Of 42 patients exhibiting bilateral ectopia lentis, 6 received monocular surgery. Mean age at diagnosis was significantly higher and mean postoperative best-corrected visual acuity was significantly lower in the monocular surgery group than in the binocular surgery group (P < .05). All eyes exhibited reduced hyperopia for 5 years postoperatively, but the reduction rate of hyperopia in the monocular group was significantly lower than in the binocular group (P < .05). No complications occurred during operations and 1 eye (1.3%) in a patient with Marfan’s syndrome exhibited retinal detachment 9 years after surgery.

Conclusions:
Surgical treatment of ectopia lentis was safe and promising with regard to good visual outcomes after 7.1 years of follow-up. However, the possibility of amblyopia must be considered due to differences in the degree of dislocation between the two eyes.
Estimated Cost of an ROP Locum Tenens Program
Authors: Arnold Robert W. , Runge Paul E.
Published: December 2008

To the Editors:

A serious crisis exists with decreased availability of specialists to provide expert neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) eye care.<a href="EditorPage.aspx?da=core&id=%7b31AAD8CE-362B-4661-912C-071074BD248B%7d&ed=FIELD2578725532&vs&la=en&fld=%7b0B37FA8E-B2A6-4AE9-8E4F-53651D5CB226%7d&so=%2fsitecore%2fsystem%2fsettings%2fhtml+editor+profiles%2frich+text+healio&di=0&hdl=H2578725568&us=sitecore%5cEAnderer&mo&pe=0#x01913913-20080101-14-bibr1">1 Some of this is associated with extremely high medico-legal risk.<a href="EditorPage.aspx?da=core&id=%7b31AAD8CE-362B-4661-912C-071074BD248B%7d&ed=FIELD2578725532&vs&la=en&fld=%7b0B37FA8E-B2A6-4AE9-8E4F-53651D5CB226%7d&so=%2fsitecore%2fsystem%2fsettings%2fhtml+editor+profiles%2frich+text+healio&di=0&hdl=H2578725568&us=sitecore%5cEAnderer&mo&pe=0#x01913913-20080101-14-bibr2">2 Some NICUs have not adopted telemedicine coverage of staging.<a href="EditorPage.aspx?da=core&id=%7b31AAD8CE-362B-4661-912C-071074BD248B%7d&ed=FIELD2578725532&vs&la=en&fld=%7b0B37FA8E-B2A6-4AE9-8E4F-53651D5CB226%7d&so=%2fsitecore%2fsystem%2fsettings%2fhtml+editor+profiles%2frich+text+healio&di=0&hdl=H2578725568&us=sitecore%5cEAnderer&mo&pe=0#x01913913-20080101-14-bibr3">3 If the only covering ophthalmologist in a region is either unavailable or has active adenovirus infection,<a href="EditorPage.aspx?da=core&id=%7b31AAD8CE-362B-4661-912C-071074BD248B%7d&ed=FIELD2578725532&vs&la=en&fld=%7b0B37FA8E-B2A6-4AE9-8E4F-53651D5CB226%7d&so=%2fsitecore%2fsystem%2fsettings%2fhtml+editor+profiles%2frich+text+healio&di=0&hdl=H2578725568&us=sitecore%5cEAnderer&mo&pe=0#x01913913-20080101-14-bibr4">4 then the hospital may be forced to seek ophthalmic consultation from someone with expertise in retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).
Ocular and Oculomotor Findings of Joubert Syndrome
Authors: Keskinbora Kadircan H.
Published: December 2008

To the Editors:

Joubert syndrome is an autosomal recessively inherited developmental defect of the cerebellar vermis and the brainstem with a highly variable phenotype and may include episodic hyperpnea-apnea spells, ataxia, hypotonia, developmental delay, and abnormal eye movements including strabismus and nystagmus.<a href="EditorPage.aspx?da=core&id=%7b31AAD8CE-362B-4661-912C-071074BD248B%7d&ed=FIELD2578725532&vs&la=en&fld=%7b0B37FA8E-B2A6-4AE9-8E4F-53651D5CB226%7d&so=%2fsitecore%2fsystem%2fsettings%2fhtml+editor+profiles%2frich+text+healio&di=0&hdl=H2578725568&us=sitecore%5cEAnderer&mo&pe=0#x01913913-20080101-15-bibr1">1,2 Patients usually have decreased smooth pursuit gain, hypometric volitional saccades, oculomotor apraxia, pendular nystagmus, gaze-holding nystagmus, optic nerve hypoplasia, pigmentary fundus changes, decreased vestibulo-ocular reflexes, and visual loss.<a href="EditorPage.aspx?da=core&id=%7b31AAD8CE-362B-4661-912C-071074BD248B%7d&ed=FIELD2578725532&vs&la=en&fld=%7b0B37FA8E-B2A6-4AE9-8E4F-53651D5CB226%7d&so=%2fsitecore%2fsystem%2fsettings%2fhtml+editor+profiles%2frich+text+healio&di=0&hdl=H2578725568&us=sitecore%5cEAnderer&mo&pe=0#x01913913-20080101-15-bibr3">3 The diagnosis of Joubert syndrome is based on the clinical findings and supported by the pathognomonic “molar tooth sign” on cranial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which results from a combination of midbrain, vermian, and superior cerebellar peduncle abnormalities.<a href="EditorPage.aspx?da=core&id=%7b31AAD8CE-362B-4661-912C-071074BD248B%7d&ed=FIELD2578725532&vs&la=en&fld=%7b0B37FA8E-B2A6-4AE9-8E4F-53651D5CB226%7d&so=%2fsitecore%2fsystem%2fsettings%2fhtml+editor+profiles%2frich+text+healio&di=0&hdl=H2578725568&us=sitecore%5cEAnderer&mo&pe=0#x01913913-20080101-15-bibr4">4 I describe the ocular and oculomotor findings in a patient with Joubert syndrome, which is a rare inherited disorder.
The Effect of Surgical Correction of Epiblepharon on Astigmatism in Children
Authors: Park Sang Woo , Ji Yong Sok , Park Yeoung Geol
Published: December 2008

Purpose:
To evaluate the characteristics of astigmatism in epiblepharon and postoperative astigmatic changes in children.

Methods:
The authors undertook a retrospective chart review of 56 patients who underwent an epiblepharon operation. Preoperative astigmatism was compared with postoperative astigmatism according to age at surgery, the presence of amblyopia, and unilateral epiblepharon.

Results:
Astigmatism decreased from a preoperative mean of 1.34 ± 1.25 D with-the-rule astigmatism to a postoperative mean of 1.10 ± 1.14 D with-the-rule astigmatism in all patients (P = .055), and this reduction was statistically significant in the 5- to 7-year age group (P = .038), amblyopic eyes (P = .021), and affected eyes in cases of unilateral epiblepharon (P = .004).

Conclusions:
Epiblepharon operations were found to change astigmatism. The results obtained suggest that an epiblepharon operation should be considered in patients with amblyopia and epiblepharon prior to the general treatment of amblyopia.
Bilateral Necrotizing Scleritis Following Strabismus Surgery for Thyroid Ophthalmopathy
Authors: Streho Maté , Roussat Béatrice , Bouaziz Thomas , Ounnas Nicole , Nordmann Jean-Philippe
Published: December 2008

A case of a bilateral necrotizing scleritis following strabismus surgery for thyroid ophthalmopathy is described. A 71-year-old man was operated on for esotropia due to prior and equilibrated Grave’s disease. Two weeks after surgery, he had a scleral necrosis that was located on the surgery sites (insertion of the two medial rectus muscles). There was no infectious or autoimmune etiology. The pathogenic mechanism was ischemic and inflammatory, doubtless facilitated by the thyroid ophthalmopathy. The outcome was favorable after 3 weeks of antibiotic and anti-inflammatory treatment. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first bilateral case of this complication.
Validity and Utility of the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure as an Outcome Measure in a Craniofacial Pain Center
Authors: Rochman Deborah L. , Ray Sharon A. , Kulich Ronald J. , Mehta Noshir R. , Driscoll Stephen
Published: December 2008

Temporomandibular disorders and orofacial pain may cause impairment and functional limitations in activities involving the face, especially the mouth. The impact of chronic pain on occupational performance in this population has not been studied. The validity and utility of the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) as an outcome measure in an orofacial pain setting was assessed, including specific occupational performance problems reported by individuals with temporomandibular disorder, orofacial pain, or both. Participants were patients ( N = 29) referred for treatment of chronic orofacial pain at a tertiary, university-based pain center. Assessments occurred prior to standard occlusal splint therapy and 8 weeks after the initial evaluation. Measures included the COPM, the Pain Disability Index, and numerical pain rating scales. The COPM scores showed significant correlations with other measures. Study participants identified a diverse range of occupational performance problems. The COPM may have utility as an outcome measure for use in orofacial pain. It provides the treatment team with data related to occupational performance and patient satisfaction.
Improvised 3-0 Polypropylene Plug for the Glaucoma Drainage Tube During Phacoemulsification
Authors: Fechter LTC Herbert P.
Published: December 2008

Overfiltration through a preexisting glaucoma drainage tube can make subsequent phacoemulsification surgery more challenging due to a dangerously shallow anterior chamber. The author improvised a 3-0 polypropylene plug to occlude the implant tube during phacoemulsification in two patients with uveitic glaucoma and a prior Baerveldt glaucoma drainage device. The improvised plug safely and effectively maintained the anterior chamber during phacoemulsification. A 3-0 polypropylene suture can be tied, trimmed, and inserted into a glaucoma drainage implant tube, in select cases, to maintain the anterior chamber during cataract surgery.
Peripheral Subretinal Pigment Accumulation Following Transpupillary Thermotherapy for Choroidal Melanoma
Authors: Kiratli Hayyam , Bilgiç Sevgül , Söylemezoglu Figen , Alaçal Sibel
Published: December 2008

Transpupillary thermotherapy (TTT) used as either an adjunct to plaque brachytherapy or a primary treatment for choroidal melanoma can cause several intraocular complications, particularly in the retina. A 61-year-old woman had a macular choroidal melanoma measuring 8 × 7.5 × 3.6 mm and received TTT in three sessions, each 6 months apart. After the second treatment, pigmented material began to accumulate on the peripheral retina with an increasing pace. The tumor gradually regressed for 16 months, followed by a sudden regrowth. Enucleation of the eye revealed that the peripheral subretinal pigmented deposits consisted of pigment-laden macrophages and retinal pigment epithelial cells without viable tumor cells. The rare complication of peripheral subretinal pigment dispersion following TTT should not be alarming, but close monitoring is recommended.
Comparing Immersion Ultrasound With Partial Coherence Interferometry for Intraocular Lens Power Calculation
Authors: Narváez Julio , Cherwek D. Hunter , Stulting R. Doyle , Waldron Rhonda , Zimmerman Grenith J. , Wessels Izak F. , Waring George O.
Published: December 2008

Background and Objective:
To compare the utility and accuracy of high-precision immersion ultrasound, partial coherence interferometry, and the IOL Master system (Carl Zeiss Meditec, Dublin, CA) in a tertiary care referral center.

Patients and Methods:
Comparative clinical study in a tertiary care, multispecialty, university practice. Participants were consecutive patients scheduled for cataract surgery at Emory Eye Center. Patients underwent biometry using immersion ultrasound, partial coherence interferometry, and the IOL Master system.

Results:
Twenty-two percent of eyes undergoing surgery could not be measured using interferometry. In those eyes measurable by both methods, there was no difference in measurements nor postoperative refractive outcome. Each method had a high repeatability (intraclass correlation coefficient > 0.99) with a high intraclass correlation between methods (intra-class correlation coefficient = 0.99).

Conclusions:
When it can be used, interferometry is equivalent to immersion ultrasonography regarding biometric accuracy and precision. However, it cannot replace ultrasonography, especially for eyes with dense media opacity.
Optical Coherence Tomography Findings in Autosomal Dominant Macular Dystrophy
Authors: Schadlu Ramin , Shah Gaurav K. , Prasad Anita G.
Published: December 2008

The authors report a case of autosomal dominant cystoid macular dystrophy in which optical coherence tomography outlined the pathology and assisted in determining the etiology of the patient’s macular edema.
Post-Peripheral Iridotomy Inflammation in Patients With Dark Pigmentation
Authors: Siam Ghada A. , Monteiro de Barros Daniela S. , Gheith Moataz E. , Batiste Corey G. , Tittler Ethan H. , Moster Marlene R. , Spaeth George L.
Published: December 2008

A retrospective chart review of four patients who had Nd:YAG peripheral iridotomy performed for narrow anterior chamber angle and subsequently developed marked inflammation after tapering anti-inflammatory steroids. These cases were possibly predisposed to this reaction by the heavy pigmentation of their irides based on race, their use of latanoprost, or the conjunction of these factors.
OCT Findings in Macular Hole Formation in Eyes With Complete Vitreofoveal Separation
Authors: Targino Abelardo , Costa Rogério A. , Calucci Daniela , Cardillo José A. , Jorge Rodrigo , Scott Ingrid U.
Published: December 2008

The current study describes the morphologic macular features in two eyes that developed full-thickness macular holes in the setting of documented vitreofoveal separation. Using third-generation optical coherence tomography, complete vitreofoveal separation associated with the disruption of the inner foveal retina was documented in both cases. Five months after presentation, decreased vision and epiretinal membrane formation associated with development of a full-thickness macular hole were observed in the first patient. In the second patient, a full-thickness macular hole was demonstrated by optical coherence tomography 6 weeks after presentation. These findings suggest that full-thickness macular holes may develop in eyes with vitreofoveal separation. Evidence of the disturbance of the inner foveal architecture on optical coherence tomography indicates the potential role of factors other than anteroposterior or oblique vitreoretinal tractional forces in the genesis of some full-thickness macular holes.
Implementing a Structured Oral Examination into a Residency Program: Getting Started
Authors: Wiggins Michael N. , Harper Richard A.
Published: December 2008

Click here to read Letter to the Editor about this article 

Background and Objective:

To describe the steps involved in implementing a structured oral examination into a residency program

Patients and Methods:

Existing oral examination format was evaluated and deficiencies addressed by creating a structured examination and increasing the frequency of administration to ophthalmology residents at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences.

Results:

A structured oral examination was implemented. It provided both a realistic simulation of the board certification examination and a process that was a useful teaching method and assessment tool. It was valuable in addressing the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) competencies.

Conclusions:

Oral examinations can be a versatile means of teaching and assessing resident physicians. Although the implementation process can be onerous, once in place, it can become an efficient tool for assessing all categories of the ACGME competencies and can provide valuable training in oral examination performance.
Welcome to Research in Gerontological Nursing
Authors: Buckwalter Kathleen C.
Published: December 2008

EXCERPT

I am delighted to welcome you to the inaugural issue of Research in Gerontological Nursing (RGN). This quarterly journal aims to disseminate peer-reviewed, cuttingedge, interdisciplinary gerontological research to educators, clinicians, researchers, policy makers, and interested others who are dedicated to improving the well-being of older adults in all health care and community-based settings through research. We have assembled a superb Editorial Board and panel of reviewers whose research interests span the spectrum of gerontological concerns from aging throughout the life span and health promotion to palliative care and end-of-life issues, as well as broad-based methodological and theoretical expertise. The Editorial Board includes noted gerontological nurse researchers from leading academic institutions throughout the nation, as well as colleagues in social work, pharmacy, and recreational therapy. 
Una historia del pensamiento indianista Ukhamawa Jakawisaxa
Authors: Salmón Josefa
Published: December 2008

El objetivo de este trabajo es mostrar la aportación de la microhistoria, principalmente a través de la autobiografía del líder político aimara Luciano Tapia, a la historia oficial boliviana y exponer su pensamiento indianista. En éste destacan la revaloración cultural, el replanteamiento de nociones andinas en la urbe, los desajustes entre la práctica política y el principio de complementariedad, el pensar como evento, y la etnicidad en tanto proceso y no como identidad. He consultado los Archivos de la Cámara de Diputados en La Paz y textos académicos sobre la cultura e historia andina.
Patterns of juvenile habitat use by the spider crab Maja brachydactyla as revealed by stable isotope analyses
Authors: Freire Juan , Carabel Sirka , Verísimo Patricia , Bernárdez Cristina , Fernández Luis
Published: December 2008

Patterns of habitat use by spider crab juveniles, Maja brachydactyla, from two geographic areas on the NW coast of the Iberian Peninsula were studied through the analysis of carbon and nitrogen stable isotope relations in muscle and hepatopancreas. Main potential preys of spider crab juveniles in rocky and sandy habitats and different organic matter sources in coastal food webs were also analysed. Isotopic ratios showed no difference between rocky and sandy habitats. The use of carapace colour and epibiosis as an indicator of habitat use was not supported by our data. These results suggest that movements between the two habitats are much more frequent than suggested in previous studies. In the coastal food web, two main trophic compartments were identified according to their organic matter source: one based on plankton and seaweeds (rocky habitats), and one based on sedimentary particulate organic matter (sandy bottoms). By means of the model of Phillips and Gregg (2003), it was found that juveniles of Maja brachydactyla from both habitats consumed approximately two thirds of the preys in rocky habitats and one third in sedimentary habitats. The results indicate that in exposed environments large juveniles spend most of the time on sedimentary bottoms, where they find more refuge, moving frequently to nearby rocky substrates to feed.
Effect of copper exposure on growth, condition indices and biomarker response in juvenile sole Solea senegalensis
Authors: Fonseca Vanessa , Serafim Ângela , Company Rui , Bebianno Maria João , Cabral Henrique
Published: December 2008

Juvenile Solea senegalensis were exposed to different concentrations of waterborne copper (Cu) for 15 days in static conditions with continuous aerated artificial salt water at 20°C (± 0.8°C) with a normal photoperiod (10 h/14 h light/dark) and daily feeding. Several measures of exposure and effects were determined: 1) biomarkers - metallothioneins and lipid peroxidation level; 2) mass indices - growth rate and morphometric condition indices; and 3) biochemical condition indices - RNA:DNA ratio and lipid and protein content in fish tissues. Copper exposure triggered the response of the biomarkers and resulted in reduced growth and condition (RNA:DNA and lipid content), but the morphometric indices did not vary. The physiological costs of Cu contamination on condition suggested that lipid reserves were allocated as an energy source to enable exposed fish to respond to Cu toxicity as well as to maintain positive growth rates and protein synthesis throughout the experiment, although with lower growth rates than the control fish. This study showed the importance of selecting suitable biomarkers according to contaminant source, fish species and their life-history stage. In addition, the use of several biomarkers of exposure, growth and specific condition indices can improve fish health determination and should be considered in evaluations of the effects of environmental contaminants on fish.
First implementation of an innovative infra‐red camera system integrated into a mobile CBCT scanner for applicator tracking in brachytherapy—Initial performance characterization
Authors: Karius Andre , Leifeld Lisa Marie , Strnad Vratislav , Fietkau Rainer , Bert Christoph
Published: April 2024

Purpose

To enable a real‐time applicator guidance for brachytherapy, we used for the first time infra‐red tracking cameras (OptiTrack, USA) integrated into a mobile cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) scanner (medPhoton, Austria). We provide the first description of this prototype and its performance evaluation.

Methods

We performed assessments of camera calibration and camera‐CBCT registration using a geometric calibration phantom. For this purpose, we first evaluated the effects of intrinsic parameters such as camera temperature or gantry rotations on the tracked marker positions. Afterward, calibrations with various settings (sample number, field of view coverage, calibration directions, calibration distances, and lighting conditions) were performed to identify the requirements for achieving maximum tracking accuracy based on an in‐house phantom. The corresponding effects on camera‐CBCT registration were determined as well by comparing tracked marker positions to the positions determined via CBCT. Long‐term stability was assessed by comparing tracking and a ground‐truth on a weekly basis for 6 weeks.

Results

Robust tracking with positional drifts of 0.02 ± 0.01 mm was feasible using the system after a warm‐up period of 90 min. However, gantry rotations affected the tracking and led to inaccuracies of up to 0.70 mm. We identified that 4000 samples and full coverage were required to ensure a robust determination of marker positions and camera‐CBCT registration with geometric deviations of 0.18 ± 0.03 mm and 0.42 ± 0.07 mm, respectively. Long‐term stability showed deviations of more than two standard deviations from the initial calibration after 3 weeks.

Conclusion

We implemented for the first time a standalone combined camera‐CBCT system for tracking in brachytherapy. The system showed high potential for establishing corresponding workflows.
Peer‐Led Symptom Management Intervention to Enhance Resilience in People With Systemic Sclerosis: Mediation Analysis From a Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Chen Yen T. , Hassett Afton L. , Huang Suiyuan , Khanna Dinesh , Murphy Susan L.
Published: April 2024

Objective

Facilitated self‐management interventions have the potential to enhance resilience and well‐being. We examined whether resilience is a mediator of improving physical and psychological symptoms for people with systemic sclerosis (SSc) who participated in a 12‐week online peer‐led symptom management intervention.

Methods

We conducted a secondary data analysis from a randomized control trial comparing a peer health‐coached intervention to a waitlist control. Participants completed the Connor‐Davidson Resilience Scale, the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy‐Fatigue scale, and the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System measures of pain interference and depressive symptoms at the baseline and at weeks 6 and 12. Linear mixed effect regression models were used to assess the effect of intervention on changes in resilience. Causal mediation analyses were conducted to examine whether changes in resilience at week 12 mediated intervention effects on changes in fatigue, pain interference, and depressive symptoms at week 12.

Results

One hundred and seventy‐three eligible participants were enrolled. Participants in the intervention group reported improvements in resilience (P < 0.001). These changes in resilience mediated the intervention effects on fatigue with indirect effect of −1.41 (95% confidence interval [CI] −2.41 to −0.41), pain interference of −0.86 (95% CI −1.65 to −0.08), and depressive symptoms of −1.99 (95% CI −3.16 to −0.81).

Conclusion

For participants in the intervention who had positive improvements in their physical and psychological symptoms, increased resilience was a mechanism for these improvements. These findings support the importance of addressing resilience to improve symptoms in similar SSc interventions.
A Smart Nitric Oxide (NO) Generating Immuno‐Trimetallic Nanocatalyst Triggering Chemodynamic Therapy in Breast Cancer Treatment
Authors: Wang Xueqin , Liu Chuan , Chen Xuyang , Zhao Xuanping , Wu Jing , Chen Hong , Wan Mengna , Zhao Shangyi , Li Xiaolong , Li Na , Duan Shaofeng
Published: April 2024

Chemodynamic therapy (CDT) has great potential in cancer treatment, but its efficacy is limited due to non‐specificity, insufficient hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and excessive glutathione (GSH) within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Here, an intelligent nanoplatform (Fe3O4@MnO2@NO@Au NPs, abbreviated as CD44FMNA) is reported for the treatment of breast cancer, which is constructed with Fe3O4 nanoparticles (NPs) as the core coated with manganese dioxide (MnO2) nanoshells encapsulating NO donors and gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) within the pores of MnO2, followed by the conjugation of targeting ligand anti‐CD44 mAb. The fabricated CD44FMNA initially remains inactive in normal cells, but after CD44 receptor ‐mediated MDA‐MB‐231 cell‐specific endocytosis, acidic TME can induce the decomposition of the MnO2 shell to release NO donors, thereby dually depleting the existing GSH in cells and enhancing the Fenton‐like reaction in a cascade manner. The generation of hydroxyl radicals (·OH) and the dual depletion of GSH can significantly weaken the GSH‐related antioxidant defense system (ADS) within MDA‐MB‐231 cells, accelerating apoptosis and cell death via the mitochondrial pathway. In addition, in vivo studies demonstrate that CD44FMNA can effectively inhibit tumor growth with good biosafety. Therefore, this nanoplatform may provide an effective therapy for the treatment of breast cancer.
Regulated Perovskite Crystallization for Efficient Blue Light‐Emitting Diodes via Interfacial Molecular Network
Authors: Wang Lu , Su Zhen‐Huang , Shen Yang , Feng Shi‐Chi , Xie Feng‐Ming , Zhang Kai , Meng Ke‐Fan , Gao Xingyu , Tang Jian‐Xin , Li Yan‐Qing
Published: April 2024

Metal halide perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) are gaining increasing attention as a promising candidate for the new‐generation display technology. Although tremendous progress has been witnessed in this field, the device performance of blue PeLEDs still lags far behind that of the green and red counterparts. In this work, an effective interfacial engineering is employed to boost the radiative recombination of blue perovskite film by introducing a multifunctional tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) network on the grain‐growth substrate. Benefitting from the strong interaction between the TEOS molecule and perovskite nuclei, the perovskite crystallization dynamics are effectively regulated, contributing to significantly improved emitting film with uniformly distributed halogen and concentrated low‐dimensional domain. Additionally, the TEOS network can distinctly passivate the crystal defects at the buried perovskite interface owing to its adequate electron‐donating sites. Consequently, the target blue PeLEDs featuring a stable emission peak at 488 nm exhibit a champion external quantum efficiency of 17.3%, which is among the highest values to date. The results demonstrate the critical role of the surface molecular characteristics of the grain‐growth substrate in regulating the mixed‐halide blue perovskite crystallization.
Internal Encapsulation Strategy Using a Polymer Enables Efficient, Stable, and Lead‐Safe Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Dong Hongye , Shen Guibin , Fang Haohui , Li Yiyi , Gao Xiaowen , Song Qili , Xu Xiangning , Wang Yi , Mu Cheng , Xu Dongsheng
Published: April 2024

Significant progress is made in perovskite solar cells (PSCs) with high power conversion efficiency (PCE). However, the potential issue of lead leakage creates a critical challenge to its commercialization. Therefore, a convenient internal encapsulation strategy is proposed by introducing a polyvinyl butyral (PVB) polymer at the perovskite/electron transport layer interface. This strategy enhances the performance of PSCs and effectively suppresses lead leakage. The introduced PVB layer plays a crucial role in mitigating ion migration, optimizing energy levels, and preventing moisture penetration. Thus, PSCs with PVB modifications generally perform better, with an improved PCE of 22.47% and reduced hysteresis. Furthermore, these modified devices exhibit enhanced stability under light soaking and thermal stress, effectively mitigating lead leakage. This innovative approach not only enhances the efficiency of PSCs but also addresses the challenges associated with lead leakage, paving the way for more sustainable and commercially viable solar cell technologies.
Gain Enhancement and Ground Plane Immunity of Mechanically Driven Thin‐Film Bulk Acoustic Resonator Magnetoelectric Antenna Arrays
Authors: Luo Bin , Liang Xianfeng , Chen Huaihao , Sun Neville , Lin Hwaider , Sun Nian‐Xiang
Published: April 2024

Compact, conformal antennas with ground plane immunity and high gain are crucial to IoT, 5G, and biomedical applications. Conventional electrical antennas suffer large size, detuned impedance, and degraded gain and radiation efficiency on a ground plane as they operate on electromagnetic resonance and use electric dipole for radiation. Utilizing electromechanical resonance, magnetoelectric(ME) coupling, and magnetic dipole radiation in magnetostrictive/piezoelectric heterostructures, ME antennas exhibit ultra‐compact sizes comparable to acoustic wavelength and enhanced radiation performance on a ground plane. This study first utilizes parallel and series antenna array topology to achieve a profound gain and radiation efficiency enhancement without degrading impedance mismatch and quality factor of ME resonators. Notably, by increasing the array element number, 10 dBi gain enhancement is achieved in 3 × 3 thin‐film bulk acoustic resonator (FBAR) ME antenna array, reaching a peak antenna gain of −17.3 dBi. Unlike conventional antenna arrays, ME antenna arrays enhance radiation efficiency without affecting directivity, owing to ultra‐compact dimensions much less than one‐quarter of electromagnetic wavelength. Their ground plane immunity and 3 dB gain enhancement on ground planes with different shapes are also demonstrated. The demonstrated ME antenna arrays are outstanding platform‐independent ultra‐compact high‐gain conformal antenna candidates for wireless communication, wireless power transfer, and portable electronic and biomedical devices.
Rational Design of TaON/Potassium Poly(Heptazine Imide) Heterostructure for Multifunctional Environmental Remediation
Authors: Lian Xinyi , Pelicano Christian Mark , Huang Zongyi , Yi Xiaodong , Savateev Aleksandr , Antonietti Markus
Published: April 2024

Tantalum oxynitride (TaON) has recently attracted much attention due to its excellent performance as a semiconductor. However, its shortage in separation of photogenerated charges hinders the wide application, which, fortunately, can be made up by forming heterojunctions with other photocatalysts. In this study, the rational design of an inorganic‐organic TaON/potassium poly (heptazine imide) (KPHI) heterojunction is reported to separate the photo charges on the two sides of this dyadic structure. The incorporation of 20 wt.% TaON into KPHI resulted not only in H2 generation but also in a wider set of environmental remediation applications under visible light, including Cr(VI) reduction and degradation of otherwise resilient antibiotics. 20TaON/KPHI effectively reduced 17.5 ppm Cr(VI) solution in 35 min under low‐power blue light irradiation with a rate constant which is ≈6 and 30 times higher than that of pristine KPHI and TaON, respectively. Moreover, the composite demonstrated a 2‐ and 40‐fold increase in H2 evolution rate in comparison to pure KPHI and TaON, respectively. This remarkable enhancement in photocatalytic activity is ascribed to the efficient electron‐hole separation and formation of an effective Z‐scheme heterojunction. This work offers a new paradigm for designing efficient photocatalytic systems for environmental applications under low‐power LED and natural sunlight.
From Polyester Plastics to Diverse Monomers via Low‐Energy Upcycling
Authors: Ji Lei , Meng Jiaolong , Li Chengliang , Wang Ming , Jiang Xuefeng
Published: April 2024

Polyester plastics, constituting over 10% of the total plastic production, are widely used in packaging, fiber, single‐use beverage bottles, etc. However, their current depolymerization processes face challenges such as non‐broad spectrum recyclability, lack of diversified high‐value‐added depolymerization products, and crucially high energy consumption. Herein, an efficient strategy is developed for dismantling the compact structure of polyester plastics to achieve diverse monomer recovery. Polyester plastics undergo swelling and decrystallization with a low depolymerization energy barrier via synergistic effects of polyfluorine/hydrogen bonding, which is further demonstrated via density functional theory calculations. The swelling process is elucidated through scanning electron microscopy analysis. Obvious destruction of the crystalline region is demonstrated through X‐ray crystal diffractometry curves. PET undergoes different aminolysis efficiently, yielding nine corresponding high‐value‐added monomers via low‐energy upcycling. Furthermore, four types of polyester plastics and five types of blended polyester plastics are closed‐loop recycled, affording diverse monomers with exceeding 90% yields. Kilogram‐scale depolymerization of real polyethylene terephthalate (PET) waste plastics is successfully achieved with a 96% yield.
Effects of the COVID‐19 pandemic on short‐term postoperative outcomes of emergency surgery for gastroduodenal perforation: A nationwide study in Japan based on the National Clinical Database
Authors: Ogawa Shimpei , Endo Hideki , Yoshida Masahiro , Tsuru Tomomitsu , Itabashi Michio , Yamamoto Hiroyuki , Kakeji Yoshihiro , Ueno Hideki , Kitagawa Yuko , Hibi Taizo , Taketomi Akinobu , Ikeda Norihiko , Mori Masaki
Published: April 2024

Aim

To examine the potential negative effects of the COVID‐19 pandemic on short‐term postoperative outcomes of emergency surgery for gastroduodenal perforation in Japan.

Methods

A total of 7973 cases of gastroduodenal perforation from 2019 to 2021 were retrieved from the National Clinical Database (NCD), which includes >95% of surgical cases in Japan. Data were analyzed nationally and in subgroups for subjects in areas with high infection levels (HILs). Postoperative 30‐d mortality, surgical mortality, and complications (Clavien–Dindo (CD) grade ≥3) were examined. Months were considered to have significantly high or low mortality or complication rates, if the 95% confidence interval (CI) of the standardized mortality (morbidity) ratio (SMR) does not contain 1.

Results

Nationally, data from 2019 vs 2020 and 2021 showed 30‐d mortality of 175 (6.7%) vs 398 (7.4%), surgical mortality of 250 (9.5%) vs 537 (10.1%), and complications (CD ≥3) of 558 (21.2%) vs 1163 (21.8%). Among these data, the only significantly high SMR was found for complications in July 2020 (1.36 [95% CI: 1.001–1.80]). In areas with HILs, data from 2019 vs 2020 and 2021 indicated 30‐d mortality of 91 (6.3%) vs 215 (7.3%), surgical mortality of 135 (9.4%) vs 294 (10.0%), and complications (CD ≥3) of 304 (21.1%) vs (23.1%). In these data, no month had a significantly high SMR.

Conclusion

The COVID‐19 pandemic had few negative effects on outcomes after surgery for gastroduodenal perforation. These findings suggest that the emergency system for gastroduodenal perforation in Japan was generally maintained during the pandemic.
Solid‐state room‐temperature phosphorescence activated by the end‐capping strategy of cyano groups
Authors: Yu Jia‐Lin , Chen Zhaojun , Zhu Yu‐Qi , Jin Yu‐Long , Wang Xin , Wu Ming‐Xue , Wang Xing‐Huo , Yang Ying‐Wei
Published: April 2024

Avoiding the tedious process of crystal cultivation and directly obtaining organic crystals with desirable phosphorescent performance is of great significance for studying their structure and properties. Herein, a set of benzophenone‐cored phosphors with bright green afterglow are obtained on a large scale through in‐situ generation via an end‐capping strategy to suppress non‐radiative triplet excitons and reinforce the intermolecular interactions. The ordered arrangement of phosphors with alkyl‐cyano groups as regulators is crucial for the enhancement of room‐temperature phosphorescence (RTP) emission, which has been further verified by the attenuated lifetimes in isolated states through the formation of inclusion complexes upon binding with pillar[5]arenes. Moreover, the hierarchical interactions of phosphors, including hydrogen bonding, π‐π stacking interactions, and van der Waals forces, are quantified by crystal structures and theoretical calculation to deeply interpret the origins of RTP emission. With this study, we provide a potential strategy for the direct acquisition of crystalline organic phosphors and modulation of RTP.
Health‐related quality of life in transplant‐eligible patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma treated with daratumumab, lenalidomide, bortezomib, and dexamethasone: Patient‐reported outcomes from GRIFFIN
Authors: Silbermann Rebecca , Laubach Jacob , Kaufman Jonathan L. , Sborov Douglas W. , Reeves Brandi , Rodriguez Cesar , Chari Ajai , Costa Luciano J. , Anderson Larry D. , Nathwani Nitya , Shah Nina , Bumma Naresh , Holstein Sarah A. , Costello Caitlin , Jakubowiak Andrzej , Orlowski Robert Z. , Shain Kenneth H. , Cowan Andrew J. , Gries Katharine S. , Pei Huiling , Cortoos Annelore , Patel Sharmila , Lin Thomas S. , Voorhees Peter M. , Usmani Saad Z. , Richardson Paul G.
Published: April 2024

In the phase 2 GRIFFIN trial (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02874742), daratumumab added to lenalidomide, bortezomib, and dexamethasone (D‐RVd) improved depth of response and progression‐free survival (PFS) versus lenalidomide, bortezomib, and dexamethasone (RVd) alone in transplant‐eligible (TE) patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM). Here, we present patient‐reported outcomes (PROs) collected using the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30‐item (QLQ‐C30), EORTC Quality of Life Questionnaire Multiple Myeloma Module 20‐item (QLQ‐MY20), and EuroQol 5‐Dimension 5‐Level (EQ‐5D‐5L) tools on day 1 of cycles 1, 2, and 3; on day 21 of cycle 4 (end of induction therapy); on day 1 of cycle 5; on day 21 of cycle 6 (end of posttransplant consolidation therapy); and at months 6, 12, 18, and 24 of maintenance therapy. Meaningful improvements from baseline were seen in most of the PRO scales with both treatments after consolidation and were sustained for at least 2 years of maintenance treatment. Large reductions from baseline (~20 points) were especially observed in pain symptoms for both treatment groups, although these were numerically higher for patients receiving D‐RVd during the majority of the time points. In addition, improvements in key scales, such as global health status, fatigue symptoms, and physical functioning, were also seen with both D‐RVd and RVd. These improvements in health‐related quality of life contribute to the totality of evidence supporting the improvement in clinical outcomes such as response rates and PFS with D‐RVd in induction, consolidation, and maintenance therapy in TE patients with NDMM.
High‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) as a means of assessing the presence of uric acid in archeological human remains: Challenges and future directions
Authors: Buckberry Jo , Telford Richard , Castells Navarro Laura , Snaith John , Swinson David , Healey Andrew , Brickley Megan B.
Published: April 2024

Objectives

This research aimed to replicate the Swinson, D., Snaith, J., Buckberry, J., & Brickley, M. (2010). High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) in the investigation of gout in paleopathology. International Journal of Osteoarchaeology, 20, 135–143. https://doi.org/10.1002/oa.1009 method for detecting uric acid in archeological human remains to investigate gout in past populations and to improve the original High Performance Liquid Chromatography‐ultraviolet (HPLC‐UV) method by using HPLC‐mass spectrometry (HPLC‐MS), a more sensitive, compound‐specific detection method.

Materials and Methods

We used reference samples of uric acid to create a dilution series to assess the limits of quantification and detection. Samples from individuals with and without gout lesions were taken from foot bones and ribs from the English cemeteries of Tanyard, Hickleton, Gloucester, and Lincoln.

Results

We could not replicate the results of Swinson and colleagues using HPLC‐UV. Tests using a dilution series of uric acid showed HPLC‐MS was approximately 100× more sensitive than HPLC‐UV, with the additional benefit of being compound specific. A newly developed hydrophilic interaction chromatography (HILIC) method improved retention characteristics. Fourteen samples from eight individuals, five with skeletal lesions consistent with gout, were analyzed with the final method. None showed evidence of uric acid despite the newly developed method's improved sensitivity and specificity.

Discussion

The lack of detectable uric acid extracted from these samples suggests that (1) urate crystals were not present in any of the bone samples, regardless of gout status; (2) urate crystals did not survive these specific archeological conditions; or (3) the concentration of uric acid in our bone extracts was low, and thus larger samples would be required.