bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Type 1 diabetes mellitus leads to gingivitis and an early compensatory increase in bone remodeling
Authors: Yuan Xue , Amin Vedanshi , Zhu Tianli , Kittaka Mizuho , Ueki Yasuyoshi , Bellido Teresita M. , Turkkahraman Hakan
Published: July 2022

Background

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and periodontitis have long been thought to be biologically connected. Indeed, T1DM is a risk factor for periodontal disease. With the population of diabetic individuals growing, it is more important than ever to understand the negative consequences of diabetes on the periodontium and the mechanisms. The aim of this study was to find out the early effects of T1DM on the periodontium without any experimentally induced periodontitis.

Methods

We established the streptozotocin (STZ)‐induced diabetic mouse model and examined the periodontium 8 weeks later by histology, molecular and cellular assays. Microcomputed tomographic (𝜇CT) imaging and in vivo fluorochrome labeling were also used to quantify bone volume and mineral apposition rates (MAR).

Results

The histologic appearance of epithelium tissue, connective tissue, and periodontal ligament in the diabetic condition was comparable with that of control mice. However, immune cell infiltration in the gingiva was dramatically elevated in the diabetic mice, which was accompanied by unmineralized connective tissue degeneration. Bone resorption activity was significantly increased in the diabetic mice, and quantitative 𝜇CT demonstrated the bone volume, the ratio of bone volume over tissue volume, and cemento‐enamel junction to alveolar bone crest (CEJ‐ABC) in the diabetic condition were equivalent to those in the control group. In vivo fluorochrome labeling revealed increased MAR and bone remodeling in the diabetic mice. Further investigation found the diabetic mice had more osteoprogenitors recruited to the periodontium, allowing more bone formation to balance the enhanced bone resorption.

Conclusions

STZ‐induced T1DM mice, at an early stage, have elevated gingival inflammation and soft tissue degeneration and increased bone resorption; but still the alveolar bone was preserved by recruiting more osteoprogenitor cells and increasing the rate of bone formation. We conclude that inflammation and periodontitis precede alveolar bone deterioration in diabetes.
Nutrient transfer in rangelands under rock powder amendment
Authors: Korchagin Jackson , Escosteguy Pedro Alexandre Varella , Bortoluzzi Edson Campanhola
Published: July 2022

Background

Native pasture yields are soil nutrient limited in subtropical regions. The use of powdered rock as a soil amendment is increasing in these regions as it can supply plant nutrients, increasing the yield of pasture in traditional livestock farming systems. Although powdered rock may also be useful to preserve native rangelands, little is known about the nutrient dynamics in rangeland soil–plant systems amended with powdered rock.

Aims

We evaluated the chemical characteristics of an Acrisol and the grassland production treated with different rates of hydrothermalized basalt powder (HBP) to estimate the nutrient transfer from soil to plants in a rangeland.

Methods

Different HBP doses (0, 1, 2, 4, and 8 t ha−1) were applied twice to the native rangeland topsoil, to which soluble fertilizer was never applied. Soil and plant samples were collected and chemically evaluated seven times over 2 years (674 days).

Results

The soil copper (Cu) and potassium (K) contents increased with the HBP dose, while the available phosphorus (P) and potential acidity (H+Al) decreased. The soil pH temporarily increased. The HBP doses did not affect the exchangeable calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), or aluminum (Al) contents. The nutrient concentrations in plant dry mass tended to increase for P, K, Ca, and Mg due to the transfer from the soil. The shoot dry mass increased with the HBP dose according to the growth season of the pasture.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that application of HBP improves the soil‐native pasture system by the transfer of nutrients from soil to plants and by increasing dry mass yield. Rock powder application in native pastures (low chemical fertility and acid conditions) is a feasible agronomic alternative for increasing pasture yield with low impact on the system.
Microplastics persist in an arable soil but do not affect soil microbial biomass, enzyme activities, and crop yield
Authors: Schöpfer Lion , Möller Julia N. , Steiner Thomas , Schnepf Uwe , Marhan Sven , Resch Julia , Bayha Ansilla , Löder Martin G. J. , Freitag Ruth , Brümmer Franz , Laforsch Christian , Streck Thilo , Forberger Jens , Kranert Martin , Kandeler Ellen , Pagel Holger
Published: July 2022

Background

Microplastics (MP, plastic particles <5 mm) are ubiquitous in arable soils due to significant inputs via organic fertilizers, sewage sludges, and plastic mulches. However, knowledge of typical MP loadings, their fate, and ecological impacts on arable soils is limited.

Aims

We studied (1) MP background concentrations, (2) the fate of added conventional and biodegradable MP, and (3) effects of MP in combination with organic fertilizers on microbial abundance and activity associated with carbon (C) cycling, and crop yields in an arable soil.

Methods

On a conventionally managed soil (Luvisol, silt loam), we arranged plots in a randomized complete block design with the following MP treatments (none, low‐density polyethylene [LDPE], a blend of poly(lactic acid) and poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) [PLA/PBAT]) and organic fertilizers (none, compost, digestate). We added 20 kg MP ha–1 and 10 t organic fertilizers ha–1. We measured concentrations of MP in the soil, microbiological indicators of C cycling (microbial biomass and enzyme activities), and crop yields over 1.5 years.

Results

Background concentration of MP in the top 10 cm was 296 ± 110 (mean ± standard error) particles <0.5 mm per kg soil, with polypropylene, polystyrene, and polyethylene as the main polymers. Added LDPE and PLA/PBAT particles showed no changes in number and particle size over time. MP did not affect the soil microbiological indicators of C cycling or crop yields.

Conclusions

Numerous MP occur in arable soils, suggesting diffuse MP entry into soils. In addition to conventional MP, biodegradable MP may persist under field conditions. However, MP at current concentrations are not expected to affect C turnover and crop yield.
Robust Bayesian meta‐analysis: Model‐averaging across complementary publication bias adjustment methods
Authors: Bartoš František , Maier Maximilian , Wagenmakers Eric‐Jan , Doucouliagos Hristos , Stanley T. D.
Published: July 2022

Publication bias is a ubiquitous threat to the validity of meta‐analysis and the accumulation of scientific evidence. In order to estimate and counteract the impact of publication bias, multiple methods have been developed; however, recent simulation studies have shown the methods' performance to depend on the true data generating process, and no method consistently outperforms the others across a wide range of conditions. Unfortunately, when different methods lead to contradicting conclusions, researchers can choose those methods that lead to a desired outcome. To avoid the condition‐dependent, all‐or‐none choice between competing methods and conflicting results, we extend robust Bayesian meta‐analysis and model‐average across two prominent approaches of adjusting for publication bias: (1) selection models ofp‐values and (2) models adjusting for small‐study effects. The resulting model ensemble weights the estimates and the evidence for the absence/presence of the effect from the competing approaches with the support they receive from the data. Applications, simulations, and comparisons to preregistered, multi‐lab replications demonstrate the benefits of Bayesian model‐averaging of complementary publication bias adjustment methods.
Applications of nanotechnology to combat the problems associated with modern food
Authors: Singh Dravin Pratap , Packirisamy Gopinath
Published: July 2022

Currently, modern lifestyle diseases (LSD) such as cancer, diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular and thyroid disease are commonly seen among people of different age groups. One of the root causes of this LSD is the type of food that we are eating. Staple crops like rice, sugarcane, vegetables and wheat are grown with the application of agrochemicals (e.g., glyphosate), traces of which are found in our food; after that, it gets ultra‐processed in factories; e.g., chips and snacks are fried using saturated fats (trans fat); sugar and wheat (derivatives bread, buns, cookies) are processed using toxic chemicals (bleaching agents). As a result, the nutritional value of food is compromised due to low dietary fiber content and synthetic additives – e.g., sucralose (artificial sweetener) – which promotes inflammation and weakens our immune system, causing our body to become sensitive to microbial infection and many other LSDs. To strengthen the immune system, people start taking synthetically prepared supplements and drugs for a prolonged time, which further deteriorates the body organs and their normal function; e.g., prolonged medication for hypothyroidism poses a risk of heart attack and joint pain. Nanotechnology solves the above problems in the food, nutraceuticals and agriculture sectors. Nanotechnology‐based naturally processed products such as nano‐nutraceuticals, nanofood, nanofertilizers and nanopesticides will benefit our health. They possess desirable properties such as high bioavailability, targeted delivery, least processing and sustained release. With the help of nanotechnology, we can get nutritional and agrochemical‐free food. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Prognostic impact of autoimmune disease in oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Pillai Anjali , Valero Cristina , Zanoni Daniella , Navas Kathleen , Morris Quaid , Ganly Ian , Patel Snehal G.
Published: July 2022

Background and Objectives

Recent literature has highlighted the role of the host in the prognosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). In this study, we retrospectively examined the impact of autoimmune (AI) disorders as an aspect of the host status on survival outcomes in OSCC patients.

Methods

From a departmental database of OSCC patients (n = 1369), 123 patients with an AI disorder were identified. AI and no‐AI groups were compared for survival outcomes.

Results

There were no significant differences in survival between groups for overall survival, disease‐specific survival, local, regional, and distant recurrence‐free probabilities. However, survival and recurrence‐free probabilities were poorer in the AI group versus the no AI group.

Conclusion

Patients with AI disease trended towards worse outcomes. This suggests immune dysregulation in these patients may impact oncologic outcomes.
Subcostal lymph nodes: An unusual sentinel lymph node basin in cutaneous melanoma
Authors: Marsh Katherine M. , Lattimore Courtney M. , Cramer Christopher L. , Slingluff Craig L. , Dengel Lynn T.
Published: July 2022

Background and Objectives

Lymphatic drainage from subcostal nodes, along the costal groove, have not previously been characterized as sites for melanoma drainage and metastasis. This study reports a series of patients with subcostal nodes draining primary melanomas, with characterization of the sites of primary melanomas that drain to these nodes.

Methods

Patients who presented to our institution between 2005 and 2020 with documented cutaneous melanoma and sentinel lymph node biopsy of a subcostal node (sentinel = S), or metastases to subcostal nodes later in clinical management (recurrent = R) were included. Patient demographics, melanoma pathology, nodal features, imaging information, surgical approaches, and outcomes data were collected.

Results

Six patients had subcostal sentinel nodes (SNs). Primary sites included the posterior trunk and lateral chest wall. Subcostal nodes were found under ribs 10−12. Subcostal SNs had at least one dimension measuring 3 mm or less. There were no surgical complications related to removing the subcostal SN.

Conclusions

Melanoma can metastasize to subcostal lymph nodes and be found at the time of SN biopsy or identified at recurrence. These small nodes are fed by lymphatic channels that run in the neurovascular bundle under the ribs. When lymphatic mapping identifies a subcostal SN, it should be excised.
Malnutrition and Postoperative Outcomes Following Transcervical Zenker Diverticulectomy
Authors: Lemdani Mehdi S. , Choudhry Hannaan S. , Patel Aman M. , Ahmad Maham , Patel Rushi , Patel Prayag , Eloy Jean Anderson
Published: July 2022

Objectives

Hypoalbuminemia has been used as a proxy for poor nutrition, and has been associated with poor postoperative outcomes in varying surgical procedures. This study investigates the association between albumin status and complications following transcervical Zenker diverticulectomy.

Study Design

Retrospective database review.

Methods

The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was queried for patients who underwent transcervical Zenker diverticulectomy between 2005 and 2018. Univariate and multivariable analyses were conducted to determine associations between albumin status and postoperative complications.

Results

318 patients undergoing transcervical Zenker diverticulectomy with available albumin values were queried. The mean serum albumin was 3.90 g/dL (SD = 0.56). Univariate analysis showed that hypoalbuminemia was associated with increased age (77.68 vs. 70.03 years) and female gender (54.4% vs. 45.6%), as well as sepsis (p = 0.045), reintubation (p = 0.040), urinary tract infection (p = 0.017), any medical complication (p < 0.001), any life‐threatening complication (p = 0.017), and mortality (p = 0.012). Multivariable analyses found no associations between hypoalbuminemia and mortality (OR 33.136, 95% CI N/A, p = 1.000), any medical complication (OR 1.154, 95% CI 0.326–4.079, p = 0.824), any life‐threatening complication (OR 0.604, 95% CI 0.079–4.586, p = 0.604), and length of stay (p = 0.249).

Conclusions

This study suggests no association between hypoalbuminemia and postoperative complications in transcervical Zenker diverticulectomy. Hypoalbuminemia and malnutrition may not be a contraindication for surgery correcting Zenker diverticulectomy.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 133:1402–1408, 2023
3D imaging of vascular anomalies using raster‐scanning optoacoustic mesoscopy
Authors: Geisler Emily L. , Brannen Andrew , Pressler Mark , Perez Jeyna , Kane Alex A. , Hallac Rami R.
Published: July 2022

Objectives

Vascular anomalies such as capillary malformations (CMs) and infantile hemangiomas (IHs) are common pediatric vascular disorders that are treated with therapeutic laser. The treatment method, however, relies on subjective evaluation of clinical findings and can have unpredictable results. Raster‐scanning optoacoustic mesoscopy (RSOM) is an innovative imaging technology using pulsed‐light laser to excite hemoglobin, generating ultrasound waves that are converted into three‐dimensional images of tissues. RSOM can provide objective information about superficial structures such as the microvasculature of vascular anomalies.

Materials and Methods

In this study, we explore the clinical potential of RSOM to study vascular anomalies before and after laser treatment. We scanned nine patients with CM (n = 6) and IH (n = 3) who underwent laser treatment and calculated the blood vessel volume.

Results

Overall, there was a posttreatment volume increase in CM, and a decrease in IH.

Conclusion

These findings support the possibility that RSOM may have a role in developing an objective method of evaluating these lesions, leading to a tailored treatment approach and avoidance of adverse outcomes.
Agencies can use self‐directed process to assess, correct structural racism
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: July 2022

Open conversations about structural racism within a mental health provider organization will make people feel uneasy, but remain highly necessary, a group of speakers said last week during a webinar promoting a free tool to facilitate these discussions.
Tennessee stakeholders tout success of 988 crisis line following live launch
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: July 2022

Now that the universal mental health crisis hotline, 988, went live around the country on July 16, MHW looks at how one state and a national organization fared with the transition from a 10‐digit number for 24/7 crisis care to an easy‐to‐remember three‐digit number.
ACT nurse talks culturally responsive care for BIPOC community
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: July 2022

A psychiatric nurse practitioner working in assertive community treatment (ACT), continued her discussion with MHW concerning the need for more culturally responsive care for the Black community, citing issues other than the stigma they feel about seeking mental health care.
Radiomics model based on features of axillary lymphatic nodes to predict axillary lymphatic node metastasis in breast cancer
Authors: Tang Yong , Che Xiaoling , Wang Weijia , Su Song , Nie Yue , Yang Chunmei
Published: July 2022

Background

Breast cancer (BC) is among the most common cancers worldwide. Machine learning–based radiomics model could predict axillary lymph node metastasis (ALNM) of BC accurately.

Purpose

The purpose is to develop a machine learning model to predict ALNM of BC by focusing on the radiomics features of axillary lymphatic node (ALN).

Methods

A group of 398 BC patients with 800 ALNs were retrospectively collected. A set of patient characteristics were obtained to form clinical factors. Three hundred and twenty‐six radiomics features were extracted from each region of interest for ALN in contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (CECT) image. A framework composed of four feature selection methods and 14 machine learning classification algorithms was systematically applied. A clinical model, a radiomics model, and a combined model were developed using a cross‐validation approach and compared. Metrics of the area under the curve (AUC), accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity were calculated to evaluate the performance of these models in the prediction of ALNM in BC.

Results

Among the 800 cases of ALNs, there were 388 cases of positive metastasis (48.50%) and 412 cases of negative metastasis (51.50%). The baseline clinical model achieved the performance with an AUC = 0.8998 (95% CI [0.8540, 0.9457]). The radiomics model achieved an AUC = 0.9081 (95% CI [0.8640, 0.9523]). The combined model using the clinical factors and radiomics features achieved the best results with an AUC = 0.9305 (95% CI [0.8928, 0.9682]).

Conclusions

Combinations of feature selection methods and machine learning‐based classification algorithms can develop promising predictive models to predict ALNM in BC using CECT features. The combined model of clinical factors and radiomics features outperforms both the clinical model and the radiomic model.
Generation of synthetic megavoltage CT for MRI‐only radiotherapy treatment planning using a 3D deep convolutional neural network
Authors: Scholey Jessica E. , Rajagopal Abhejit , Vasquez Elena Grace , Sudhyadhom Atchar , Larson Peder Eric Zufall
Published: July 2022

Background

Megavoltage computed tomography (MVCT) has been implemented on many radiotherapy treatment machines for on‐board anatomical visualization, localization, and adaptive dose calculation. Implementing an MR‐only workflow by synthesizing MVCT from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) would offer numerous advantages for treatment planning and online adaptation.

Purpose

In this work, we sought to synthesize MVCT (sMVCT) datasets from MRI using deep learning to demonstrate the feasibility of MRI‐MVCT only treatment planning.

Methods

MVCTs and T1‐weighted MRIs for 120 patients treated for head‐and‐neck cancer were retrospectively acquired and co‐registered. A deep neural network based on a fully‐convolutional 3D U‐Net architecture was implemented to map MRI intensity to MVCT HU. Input to the model were volumetric patches generated from paired MRI and MVCT datasets. The U‐Net was initialized with random parameters and trained on a mean absolute error (MAE) objective function. Model accuracy was evaluated on 18 withheld test exams. sMVCTs were compared to respective MVCTs. Intensity‐modulated volumetric radiotherapy (IMRT) plans were generated on MVCTs of four different disease sites and compared to plans calculated onto corresponding sMVCTs using the gamma metric and dose‐volume‐histograms (DVHs).

Results

MAE values between sMVCT and MVCT datasets were 93.3 ± 27.5, 78.2 ± 27.5, and 138.0 ± 43.4 HU for whole body, soft tissue, and bone volumes, respectively. Overall, there was good agreement between sMVCT and MVCT, with bone and air posing the greatest challenges. The retrospective dataset introduced additional deviations due to sinus filling or tumor growth/shrinkage between scans, differences in external contours due to variability in patient positioning, or when immobilization devices were absent from diagnostic MRIs. Dose distributions of IMRT plans evaluated for four test cases showed close agreement between sMVCT and MVCT images when evaluated using DVHs and gamma dose metrics, which averaged to 98.9 ± 1.0% and 96.8 ± 2.6% analyzed at 3%/3 mm and 2%/2 mm, respectively.

Conclusions

MVCT datasets can be generated from T1‐weighted MRI using a 3D deep convolutional neural network with dose calculation on a sample sMVCT in close agreement with the MVCT. These results demonstrate the feasibility of using MRI‐derived sMVCT in an MR‐only treatment planning workflow.
COVID‐19 Vaccination in Autoimmune Diseases (COVAD) study: Vaccine safety in idiopathic inflammatory myopathies
Authors: Gil‐Vila Albert , Ravichandran Naveen , Selva‐O'Callaghan Albert , Sen Parikshit , Nune Arvind , Gaur Prithvi Sanjeevkumar , Gonzalez Raquel Arànega , Lilleker James B. , Joshi Mrudula , Agarwal Vishwesh , Kardes Sinan , Kim Minchul , Day Jessica , Makol Ashima , Milchert Marcin , Gheita Tamer , Salim Babur , Velikova Tsvetelina , Gracia‐Ramos Abraham Edgar , Parodis Ioannis , Nikiphorou Elena , Tan Ai Lyn , Chatterjee Tulika , Cavagna Lorenzo , Saavedra Miguel A. , Shinjo Samuel Katsuyuki , Ziade Nelly , Knitza Johannes , Kuwana Masataka , Distler Oliver , Chinoy Hector , Agarwal Vikas , Aggarwal Rohit , Gupta Latika ,   COVAD Study Group
Published: July 2022

Introduction/Aims

In this study we investigated COVID‐19 vaccination–related adverse events (ADEs) 7 days postvaccination in patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs) and other systemic autoimmune and inflammatory disorders (SAIDs).

Methods

Seven‐day vaccine ADEs were collected in an international patient self‐reported e‐survey. Descriptive statistics were obtained and multivariable regression was performed.

Results

Ten thousand nine hundred respondents were analyzed (1227 IIM cases, 4640 SAID cases, and 5033 healthy controls [HCs]; median age, 42 [interquartile range, 30‐455] years; 74% female; 45% Caucasian; 69% completely vaccinated). Major ADEs were reported by 76.3% of the IIM patients and 4.6% reported major ADEs. Patients with active IIMs reported more frequent major (odds ratio [OR], 2.7; interquartile range [IQR], 1.04‐7.3) and minor (OR, 1.5; IQR, 1.1‐2.2) ADEs than patients with inactive IIMs. Rashes were more frequent in IIMs (OR, 2.3; IQR, 1.2‐4.2) than HCs. ADEs were not impacted by steroid dose, although hydroxychloroquine and intravenous/subcutaneous immunoglobulins were associated with a higher risk of minor ADEs (OR, 1.9; IQR, 1.1‐3.3; and OR, 2.2; IQR, 1.1‐4.3, respectively). Overall, ADEs were less frequent in inclusion‐body myositis (IBM) and BNT162b2 (Pfizer) vaccine recipients.

Discussion

Seven‐day postvaccination ADEs were comparable in patients with IIMs, SAIDs, and HCs, except for a higher risk of rash in IIMs. Patients with dermatomyositis with active disease may be at higher risk, and IBM patients may be at lower risk of specific ADEs. Overall, the benefit of preventing severe COVID‐19 through vaccination likely outweighs the risk of vaccine‐related ADEs. Our results may inform future guidelines regarding COVID‐19 vaccination in patients with SAIDs, specifically in those with IIMs. Studies to evaluate long‐term outcomes and disease flares are needed to shed more light on developing future COVID‐19 vaccination guidelines.
Measuring moral distress in nurses during a pandemic: Development and validation of the COVID‐MDS
Authors: Cramer Emily , Smith Jessica , Rogowski Jeanette , Lake Eileen
Published: July 2022

The COVID‐19 pandemic created novel patient care circumstances that may have increased nurses' moral distress, including COVID‐19 transmission risk and end‐of‐life care without family present. Well‐established moral distress instruments do not capture these novel aspects of pandemic nursing care. The purpose of this study was to develop and evaluate the psychometric properties of the COVID‐19 Moral Distress Scale (COVID‐MDS), which was designed to provide a short MDS that includes both general and COVID‐19‐specific content. Researcher‐developed COVID‐19 items were evaluated for content validity by six nurse ethicist experts. This study comprised a pilot phase and a validation phase. The pilot sample comprised 329 respondents from inpatient practice settings and the emergency department in two academic medical centers. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was conducted with the pilot data. The EFA results were tested in a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) using the validation data. The validation sample comprised 5042 nurses in 107 hospitals throughout the United States. Construct validity was evaluated through CFA and known groups comparisons. Reliability was assessed by the omega coefficient from the CFA and Cronbach's alpha. A two‐factor CFA model had good model fit and strong loadings, providing evidence of a COVID‐19‐specific dimension of moral distress. Reliability for both the general and COVID‐19‐specific moral distress subscales was satisfactory. Known groups comparisons identified statistically significant correlations as theorized. The COVID‐MDS is a valid and reliable short tool for measuring moral distress in nurses including both broad systemic sources and COVID‐19 specific sources.
L1 finite‐time control of discrete‐time switched positive linear systems with mode‐dependent persistent dwell‐time switching
Authors: Zhang Niankun , Chen Guoyong
Published: July 2022

This article mainly investigates the state‐feedback finite‐time control problem for discrete‐time switched positive linear systems with mode‐dependent persistent dwell‐time (MDPDT) switching. The MDPDT switching is more general than the common dwell‐time and average dwell‐time switching because it can perfectly model a type of switched systems with hybrid slow and fast switching properties. Considering the positivity of the system, we adopt multiple linear copositive Lyapunov functions instead of traditional quadratic Lyapunov functions and derive sufficient criteria of finite‐time stability by utilizing the linear programming approach. Then the relationship between the lower bound of such switching signals and parameters of the constructed controllers is found successfully, and a sufficient condition to ensure that the closed‐loop switched system maintains positive and finite‐time bounded is proposed. Finally, the efficiency of our developed conclusions is validated by two illustrative examples.
Social, emotional, and behavioral functioning in young childhood cancer survivors with chronic health conditions
Authors: Mader Luzius , Sláma Tomáš , Schindera Christina , Rössler Jochen , von der Weid Nicolas X , Belle Fabiën N , Kuehni Claudia E
Published: July 2022

Background

The cancer diagnosis and its intensive treatment may affect the long‐term psycho‐social adjustment of childhood cancer survivors. We aimed to describe social, emotional, and behavioral functioning and their determinants in young childhood cancer survivors.

Procedure

The nationwide Swiss Childhood Cancer Survivor Study sends questionnaires to parents of survivors aged 5–15 years, who have survived at least 5 years after diagnosis. We assessed social, emotional, and behavioral functioning using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). The SDQ includes four difficulties scales (emotional, conduct, hyperactivity, peer problems), a total difficulties indicator, and one strength scale (prosocial). We compared the proportion of survivors with borderline and abnormal scores to reference values and used multivariable logistic regression to identify determinants.

Results

Our study included 756 families (response rate of 72%). Thirteen percent of survivors had abnormal scores for the total difficulties indicator compared to 10% in the general population. The proportion of survivors with abnormal scores was highest for the emotional scale (15% vs. 8% in the general population), followed by the peer problems scale (14% vs. 7%), hyperactivity (8% vs. 10%), and conduct scale (6% vs. 7%). Few survivors (4% vs. 7%) had abnormal scores on the prosocial scale. Children with chronic health conditions had a higher risk of borderline and abnormal scores on all difficulties scales (all p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Most childhood cancer survivors do well in social, emotional, and behavioral life domains, but children with chronic health conditions experience difficulties. Therefore, healthcare professionals should offer specific psycho‐social support to these survivors.
Towards zero percent treatment abandonment of patients with common and curable childhood cancer types in Blantyre, Malawi
Authors: Chakumatha Eunice , Khofi Harriet , Landman Lisa , Weijers Janna , Bailey Simon , Chagaluka George , Molyneux Elizabeth , Israels Trijn
Published: July 2022

Background

Treatment abandonment is a common cause of treatment failure in low‐income countries (LIC). We implemented a comprehensive package of interventions aiming to enable all families to complete the treatment of their child. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of those interventions.

Procedure

In this prospective and historically controlled study, we included all children younger than 16 years with a newly diagnosed common and curable cancer type (acute lymphoblastic leukaemia [ALL], Hodgkin disease, Wilms tumour, retinoblastoma and Burkitt lymphoma) admitted to the Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital in Blantyre, Malawi, between 1 June 1 2019 and 1 June 1 2020. Interventions to enable treatment completion included full funding of costs to the family (treatment, transport, accommodation and food in the hospital) and tracking of patients if they did not attend treatment appointments. The outcomes of patients were compared with those of a similar historical cohort.

Results

The intervention cohort of 150 patients were compared to 264 historical control patients. Treatment abandonment decreased significantly from 19% (49/264) to 7% (10/150) (p < .001). The proportion of patients with Wilms tumour, retinoblastoma or ALL alive without evidence of disease at the end of treatment increased from 38% (57/149) to 53% (44/83) (p = .03).

Conclusion

A simple and relatively low‐cost comprehensive intervention package with no costs for families, significantly decreased treatment abandonment. This strategy may increase survival of children with common and curable cancers in LIC, especially when coupled with improvements in access to treatment and quality of treatment, including supportive care.
Strain monitoring in reduced graphene oxide‐coatedglass fiber/epoxy composite
Authors: Reghat Mojdeh , Fuss Franz Konstantin , Middendorf Peter , Bjekovic Robert , Hyde Lachlan , Hameed Nishar , Fox Bronwyn
Published: July 2022

This study investigates the influence of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) coated glass fabrics on the strain sensing and the mechanical characteristics of fiber‐reinforced composites. Graphene oxide was applied in two thicknesses (threefold and fivefold coatings) onto a fabric using a padder mangle machine followed by thermal reduction and infused with an epoxy to manufacture rGO‐enhanced composite. The tensile modulus and flexural strength of the rGO‐enhanced composites with threefold coating were improved by 27% and 6.2%, respectively, compared with the equivalent composite manufactured without rGO. The normalized resistance (ΔR/R0) of composites increased by 0.89% and 3.48% under a cyclic tensile force of 1000 and 4000 N. The magnitude of ΔR/R0was stable within 30 cycles suggesting a consistent strain sensing performance with a gauge factor of 15.55. The electrical response of the rGO‐enhanced composite was evaluated using a new industrial standard for sensors, by assessing calibration curves. The composite showed low hysteresis and low electrical viscosity which make these materials suitable for industrial piezoresistive strain sensors.
Improved damage sensing with random/aligned carbon nanofiber in bulk epoxy and adhesive joints
Authors: Chanda Amit , Sinha Sujeet K. , Datla Naresh V.
Published: July 2022

In situ health monitoring of polymeric materials and adhesive joints can be done by adding conductive carbon nanofillers that enable inherent piezoresistive sensing capability in nonconductive polymers. In this study, carbon nanofiber (CNF) was added to epoxy in bulk and adhesive form to investigate their potential applications as strain and crack detection sensors, respectively. Tensile specimens of CNF/epoxy nanocomposites with different filler concentrations were tested to study their strain sensing capability. The nanocomposites were further used as adhesive for sensing crack propagation in adhesive joints. CNFs alignment was carried out inside the adhesive by AC electric field to study the alignment effect on crack detection capability and fracture toughness of joints. Tensile specimens showed excellent strain sensing capability at CNF concentrations of 0.4, 0.8, and 1.2 wt%. However, the gauge factor was found to be highest at 0.4 wt% and decreasing further with increasing CNF content. The CNF addition was found to enhance the crack detection capability as well as the fracture toughness in adhesive joints. Further improvements in the crack detection capability and fracture toughness were observed in the case of aligned nanocomposite joints. However, the effect of alignment was observed to be more profound at lower CNF content.
Nonlinear buckling of axially compressed FG‐GRCL stiffened cylindrical panels with a piezoelectric layer by using Reddy's higher‐order shear deformation theory
Authors: Nam Vu Hoai , Dong Dang Thuy , Van Doan Cao , Phuong Nguyen Thi
Published: July 2022

This paper proposed a new analytical approach for the nonlinear buckling behavior of axially compressed functionally graded graphene reinforcement composite laminated (FG‐GRCL) stiffened cylindrical panels with the piezoelectric layers resting on the Pasternak's elastic foundation in the uniformly distributed temperature change. A design for the reinforcement of stiffened cylindrical panels is applied where the polymer matrixes of panels and stiffeners are reinforced by graphene sheets. The effects of FG‐GRCL stiffeners are modeled using the improved smeared stiffener technique, which is developed by applying the anisotropic higher‐order shear deformation beam theories for curved and straight stiffeners. The fundamental formulations are obtained by applying Reddy's higher‐order shear deformation theory (HSDT), and taking into account the von Kármán geometrical nonlinearities. The algebraically nonlinear equilibrium equations are achieved by employing Galerkin's procedure, and then they can be solved by using the ordinary calculation process. Some important remarks on the nonlinear buckling of stiffened FG‐GRCL cylindrical panels are archived from the numerical investigation process.
Fascinating flame resistance of polycaprolactam copolymer containing d‐glucopyranose for melt‐spun flame retardant fibers
Authors: Zhai Gongxun , Li Lili , Xiang Hengxue , Hu Zexu , Zhou Jialiang , Zhu Meifang
Published: July 2022

Improving the flame retardant performance of polycaprolactam (PA6) will greatly expand its applications. At present, the commonly used reactive flame retardants of PA6 mainly come from the petrochemical industry. Therefore, d‐glucopyranose, a green renewable biomass, is selected and bonded to the PA6 molecular chain through in situ polymerization to obtain a series of flame retardant polyamides (PA6/Gl) and their high‐speed melt‐spun fibers. When its added amount was 2 wt%, the LOI and UL‐94 of PA6/Gl reached 29.4 Vol% and V‐0 level, and the char residue was 529.4% higher than that of neat PA6 after thermogravimetric test. d‐glucopyranose contains a polyhydroxy structure that can capture the hydrogen radicals generated by homogeneous cracking during combustion, increasing the content of CO2 and H2O and forming a smooth and dense carbon isolation layer. Thus, the synergistic flame retardant effect of green d‐glucopyranose on the gas and condensed phases of PA6 is achieved.
High prescribing of antibiotics is associated with high prescribing of opioids in medical and dental providers
Authors: Evans Charlesnika T. , Fitzpatrick Margaret A. , Poggensee Linda , Gonzalez Beverly , Gibson Gretchen , Jurasic M. Marianne , Echevarria Kelly , McGregor Jessina C. , Gellad Walid F. , Suda Katie J.
Published: July 2022

Study Objective

High prescribers of antibiotics and opioids are an important target for stewardship interventions. The goal of this study was to assess the association between high antibiotic and high opioid prescribing by provider type.

Design

A national cross‐sectional study.

Setting

2015–2017 Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) electronic health record data.

Population

Prescribers were identified as dentists (2017: n = 1346) and medical providers (physicians n = 23,072; advanced practice providers [APP] n = 7705; and other providers [pharmacists/chiropractors] n = 3674) (2017: n = 34,451).

Measurements

High prescribing was defined as being in the top 25% of visit‐based rates of antibiotic or opioid prescribing (number of prescriptions/number of dental or medical visits). Multivariable random effects logistic regression with clustering by facility was used to assess the adjusted association between high antibiotic and opioid prescribing.

Results

Medical providers prescribed 4,348,670 antibiotic and 10,256,706 opioid prescriptions; dentists prescribed 277,170 antibiotic and 124,103 opioid prescriptions. Among all high prescribers of antibiotics, 40% were also high prescribers of opioids as compared to 18% of those who were not high antibiotic prescribers (p < 0.0001). High prescribing of antibiotics was associated with high prescribing of opioids in medical providers (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.87, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.72–3.04) and dentists (aOR = 8.40, 95% CI 6.00–11.76). Older provider age, specific US geographic regions, and lower VA facility complexity and rurality were also associated with high opioid prescribing by medical providers. In dentists, younger provider age, male gender, specific regions of the United States, and lower number of dentists in a facility were associated with high opioid prescribing. At the facility level, high dental prescribers of antibiotics or opioids were not at the same facilities as high medical prescribers, respectively (p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

High antibiotic prescribing was associated with high opioid prescribing. Thus, stewardship interventions targeting both medication classes may have higher impact to efficiently reduce prescribing of medications with high public health impact. Provider‐targeted interventions are needed to improve antibiotic and opioid prescribing in both dentists and medical providers.
Randomized controlled trial to compare safety and efficacy of mycophenolate vs. cyclosporine after rituximab in children with steroid‐resistant nephrotic syndrome
Authors: Assadi Farahnak , Mazaheri Mojgan , Sadeghi‐Bodj Simin
Published: July 2022

Objective

The comparative safety and efficacy of maintenance mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and cyclosporine (CYC) following rituximab (RTX) in children with steroid‐resistance nephrotic syndrome are uncertain.

Study Design and setting

Multicenter randomized controlled trial.

Patients

Sixty‐six children between 2 and 6 years of age with SRNS.

Interventions

Patients were randomized to receive either MMF 1000 mg/m2/day (n = 32) or CYC 5 mg/kg/day (n = 34) for 12 months following RTX induction therapy (375 mg/m2) given as needed for B‐cell count.

Main outcomes

Complete remission and adverse events (AEs).

Results

Complete remission was observed in 26 patients (83.1%) in the MMF group compared with 21 patients (61.7%) in the CYC group (p = 0.02). The median time to remission was shorter in the MMF group than in the CYC group (2.64 vs. 3.4 months; hazard ratio [HR], 0.61; 95% CI, 0.74–0.90, p = 0.03). The median time to first relapse was longer in the MMF group compared with the CYC group (10.8 vs. 8.0 months; HR, 1.12; 95% CI, 1.31–1.54, p = 0.01), and this was significantly correlated with the median time to B‐cell recovery in the two groups (8.6 vs. 5.2 months in MMF and CYC, respectively, p = 0.02). The overall incidence of adverse drug events was lower in the MMF group compared with the CYC group (59.3% vs. 76.4%, p = 0.03).

Conclusions

MMF‐RTX is superior to CYC‐RTX in maintaining remission with fewer AEs in children with initial SRNS. Additional high‐quality randomized control trials with long‐term follow‐up are needed to identify the long‐term potential complications.
Vancomycin area under the curve versus trough only guided dosing and the risk of acute kidney injury: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Abdelmessih Emily , Patel Nandini , Vekaria Janaki , Crovetto Brynna , SanFilippo Savanna , Adams Christopher , Brunetti Luigi
Published: July 2022

Vancomycin is commonly used to treat methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus infections and is known to cause nephrotoxicity. Previous Vancomycin Consensus Guidelines recommended targeting trough concentrations but the 2020 Guidelines suggest monitoring vancomycin area under the curve (AUC) given the reduced risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) at similar levels of efficacy. This meta‐analysis compares vancomycin‐induced AKI incidence using AUC‐guided dosing strategies versus trough‐based monitoring. Literature was queried from Medline (Ovid), Web of Science, and Google Scholar from database inception through November 5, 2021. Interventional or observational studies reporting the incidence of vancomycin‐induced AKI between AUC‐ and trough‐guided dosing strategies were included. In the primary analysis, the Vancomycin Consensus Guidelines definition for AKI was used if reported; otherwise, the Risk, Injury, and Failure; and Loss, and End‐stage kidney disease (RIFLE) or Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) definitions were used. The incidence of nephrotoxicity was evaluated between the two strategies using a Mantel–Haenszel random‐effects model, and odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Subgroup analyses for adjusted ORs and AKI definitions were performed. Heterogeneity was identified using Cochrane's Q test and I2 statistics. A total of 10 studies with 4231 patients were included. AUC‐guided dosing strategies were associated with significantly less vancomycin‐induced AKI than trough‐guided strategies [OR 0.625, 95% CI (0.469–0.834), p = 0.001; I2 = 25.476]. A subgroup analysis of three studies reporting adjusted ORs yielded similar results [OR 0.475, 95% CI (0.261–0.863), p = 0.015]. Stratification by AKI definition showed a significant reduction in AKI with the Vancomycin Consensus Guidelines definition [OR 0.552, 95% CI (0.341–0.894), p = 0.016] but failed to find significance in the alternative definitions. Area under the curve‐guided dosing strategies are associated with a lower incidence of vancomycin‐induced AKI versus trough‐guided dosing strategies (GRADE, low). Limitations included the variety of AKI definitions and the potential for confounding bias.
Transfer of PREPaRE school crisis training: Moderating effects of trainee characteristics
Authors: Parks Timothy W. , Nickerson Amanda B. , Fredrick Stephanie S. , Sodano Sandro M.
Published: July 2022

The National Association of School Psychologists developed the PREPaRE School Crisis Prevention and Intervention Training Curriculum to help schools plan for and prevent school crises and to help mitigate the effects after a crisis occurs. In this study, 279 participants who attended the PREP
aRE training between 1 and 24 months before the survey date completed measures assessing work environment, trainee characteristic, and training design variables as well as the transfer of PREP
aRE‐specific knowledge and skills. Utilizing structural equation modeling, unique effects of Work Environment and Trainee Characteristic variables on knowledge and skill transfer and the extent to which Trainee Characteristics moderate effects of the Work Environment were assessed. Results indicated a significant moderating effect such that trainees who were less motivated compared to those who were more motivated demonstrated greater transfer when they worked in more supportive, open, and rewarding environments. Overall, results from this study provide evidence to support addressing many individual and contextual variables to improve the transfer of PREP
aRE‐specific knowledge and skills. Implications for practice are discussed.
Early cognitive and home environmental predictors of reading fluency and reading comprehension in Turkish‐speaking children
Authors: Ergül Cevriye , Ökcün‐Akçamuş Meral Çilem , Akoğlu Gözde , Yalçın Seher , Tülü Burcu Kılıç , Kudret Zeynep Bahap
Published: July 2022

In this study, we aimed to determine the early cognitive and home environmental predictors of reading in Turkish‐speaking children. A total of 362 children participated in the study. We monitored the children for 3 years and assessed the home environmental variables and cognitive skills in kindergarten, reading fluency at the end of the first grade, and reading comprehension at the end of the second grade. We found that home literacy environment and socioeconomic status predicted early literacy skills in kindergarten as they also predicted reading fluency and reading comprehension through early literacy in later years. In addition, we found that phonological awareness, letter knowledge, and rapid naming predicted reading fluency, while language and verbal working memory predicted reading comprehension. The results of the study showed us that it is important to consider reading and reading comprehension in Turkish‐speaking children holistically, together with cognitive skills and home environmental variables.
Registration of ‘Trinity’ long‐grain rice cultivar
Authors: Samonte Stanley Omar P. B. , Wilson Lloyd. T. , Tabien Rodante E. , Harper Chersty L. , Zhou Xin‐Gen
Published: July 2022

‘Trinity’ (Reg. no. CV‐156, PI 700309), a conventional long‐grain rice (Oryza sativa L.) with high grain yield and quality, was developed by the Texas A&M AgriLife Research Center at Beaumont, TX, and released in 2021. Trinity was derived from a ‘Saber’/‘Cocodrie’//‘Presidio’ cross made in 2006. It was designated as LCRA060559A2 in the observational nursery, TXEL0540 in the Beaumont and statewide yield trials, and RU1603178 in the Uniform Regional Rice Nursery. Trinity was developed for the Texas rice industry by incorporating traits important to its producers. Its main (8.75 t ha–1) and ratoon (4.60 t ha–1) crop yields are 14 and 20% greater than those of check cultivar Presidio, respectively. At 95 cm, Trinity is taller than Presidio by 6 cm and has not been observed to lodge. It heads in 87 d and is early maturing. Its percentages of chalky grain and whole milled rice are 5.3 and 60%, respectively, which are slightly higher and lower, respectively, than those of Presidio. Trinity rice grain is non‐aromatic and classified as intermediate amylose and intermediate gelatinization temperature rice types, which are typical of a U.S. long‐grain rice cultivar. It exhibits a moderately low blast disease rating even without the Piz blast resistance gene present in Presidio. Overall, Trinity shows disease ratings comparable to Presidio but with significantly better sheath blight resistance than Presidio. Surveys from rice mills indicate that it has a very high potential as an acceptable long‐grain cultivar.