bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Dissolved Organic Matter Concentration and Source on the Chronic Toxicity of Copper and Nickel Mixtures to Chlorella sp.
Authors: Macoustra Gabriella K. , Koppel Darren J. , Jolley Dianne F. , Stauber Jenny L. , Holland Aleicia
Published: March 2021

There have been limited studies on the effects of toxicity-modifying factors, such as dissolved organic matter (DOM), on the toxicity of metal mixtures to aquatic biota. The present study investigated the effects of DOM concentration (low, 2.8 ± 0.1 mg C/L; high, 11 ± 1.0 mg C/L) and DOM source (predominantly terrestrial or microbial) on the chronic toxicity of copper (Cu) and nickel (Ni) binary mixtures to the green freshwater microalga Chlorella sp. This was assessed by using a full factorial design of 72-h growth inhibition bioassays. Measured algal growth rate was compared with growth predicted by the concentration addition and independent action reference models. Model predictions were based on concentrations of dissolved metals, labile metals (measured by diffusive gradients in thin films [DGT]), and calculated free metal ions (determined by the Windermere Humic Aqueous Model). Copper/Ni mixture toxicity was synergistic to Chlorella sp. in the absence of added DOM, with evidence of metal concentration-dependent toxicity at low effect concentrations. As DOM concentration increased, the mixture interaction changed from synergism to noninteraction or antagonism depending on the metal speciation method used. The DOM source had no significant effect on mixture interaction when based on dissolved and free metal ion concentrations but was significantly different when based on DGT-labile metal concentrations. Ratio-dependent mixture interaction was observed in all treatments, with increased deviation from the reference model predictions as the mixture changed from Ni- to Cu-dominated. The present study demonstrated that both DOM concentration and source can significantly change metal mixture toxicity interactions and that these interactions can be interpreted differently depending on the metal speciation method used. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:1906–1916. © 2021 SETAC

Abstract

Relationship between increasing dissolved organic matter (DOM) concentration and the interaction term a for mixture model predictions based on dissolved, diffusive gradients in thin films–labile, or free ion metal concentrations in the presence of 2 distinct DOM isolates. Where a positive interaction term (a > 0) indicates antagonism, a negative interaction term (a < 0) indicates synergism, and a null interaction term (a = 0) indicates noninteraction/additivity. DGT = diffusive gradients in thin films.
Das Fachmodell Baugrund
Authors: Molzahn Michael , Bauer Jörg , Henke Sascha , Tilger Klaus
Published: March 2021

Im Rahmen der ersten Empfehlungen des Arbeitskreises 2.14 der DGGT „Digitalisierung in der Geotechnik“ werden wichtige Begriffe definiert, die die Grundlage aller weiteren Empfehlungen sind. Weiterhin wird das Fachmodell Baugrund hinsichtlich der Einordnung in das Gesamtmodell, hinsichtlich der Sub‐Fachmodelle, aus denen das Fachmodell bestehen kann, sowie bezüglich der für das Fachmodell Baugrund relevanten Daten und Grundlagen betrachtet. Abschließend erfolgt eine kurze Diskussion zur datentechnischen Struktur des Fachmodells Baugrund.
Preoperative prediction of parathyroid carcinoma in an Asian Indian cohort
Authors: Shah Ravikumar , Gosavi Vikrant , Mahajan Abhishek , Sonawane Sushil , Hira Priya , Kurki Vineeth , Bal Munita , Sathe Pragati , Pai Prathamesh , D'Cruz Anil , Uchino Shinya , Garale Mahadeo Namdeo , Patil Virendra , Lila Anurag , Shah Nalini , Bandgar Tushar
Published: March 2021

Background

Parathyroid carcinoma (PC) requires preoperative prediction for appropriate surgical management. Differentiation from symptomatic primary hyperparathyroidism (sPHPT) cohort is difficult.

Methods

Patients with sPHPT from a tertiary‐care center, Western India, including Cohort‐A (n = 19 [10/M; 9/F]) with PC and Cohort‐B (n = 93 [33/M; 60/F] with benign parathyroid lesions) were compared to derive predictors for differential diagnosis.

Results

There were no differences in clinical or biochemical parameters between the two cohorts. Comparison of CECT parameters showed that irregular shape, tumor heterogeneity, infiltration, short/long‐axis ratio >0.76, and long‐diameter >30 mm had high negative‐predictive value and intratumoral calcification had 100% positive‐predictive value to diagnose PC; whereas there were no differences in contrast‐enhancement patterns. Long diameter, short/long‐axis ratio, and heterogeneity were significant predictors on multivariate analysis.

Conclusion

It is difficult to predict diagnosis of PC in an Indian sPHPT cohort based on clinical and biochemical parameters, whereas CECT parathyroid‐based parameters can aid in diagnosis.
A whole of population retrospective observational study on the rates of polypharmacy in New Zealand 2014 to 2018 Polypharmacy in New Zealand: What is the current status?
Authors: Nind James , Smith Alesha , Devananda Manjula , Auvray Benoit
Published: March 2021

Background and Aims

Polypharmacy (≥5 medicines) and hyperpolypharmacy (≥10 medicines) can significantly impact people's health. The literature surrounding polypharmacy focuses on the elderly, particularly rest home populations, with few studies looking into younger age bands. Moreover, there have been no recent studies looking into the rates of polypharmacy in New Zealand. This study aimed to determine whether polypharmacy rates have increased over time in the New Zealand population. Specifically investigating polypharmacy rates across age and ethnicity, and identifying which medicines are most commonly prescribed in people with polypharmacy.

Methods

A nationwide retrospective observational study was carried out between 2014 and 2018 on 4 697 274 New Zealanders (96% of the population) by linking dispensing data from the Pharmaceutical Collection to patient enrolment data using a National Health Identifier (NHI) to identify the rate of long‐term medicine prescribing in New Zealand.

Results

Our study found the rate of polypharmacy to be 9.93% and hyperpolypharmacy to be 1.92% nationwide in 2018, a percentage increase of 4.1% and 7.11% from 2014, respectively. During the same period, we observed the greatest percentage increase (30.37%) in the rate of polypharmacy in the 20 to 29 age band while the rates decreased in older populations. Variation was also noted between ethnicities. Medicines contributing to polypharmacy differed by age group.

Conclusion

Current methods for minimizing polypharmacy and optimizing medicines use are narrowly focused on the elderly. Despite an increase in education and awareness raising campaigns, rates continue to rise in New Zealand's population.
Individual values and well‐being: The moderating role of personality traits
Authors: Bojanowska Agnieszka , Urbańska Beata
Published: March 2021

This study examined the role of values, traits and their interactions for the experience of eudaimonic and hedonic well‐being. First wave studies on value and well‐being relationships yielded inconsistent results suggesting that these relationships are moderated by other factors, possibly by personality traits. We asked a representative sample of adult Poles (N = 1161) to report on their personality traits (according to five‐factor theory), values (conceptualised by Schwartz) and well‐being (hedonic and eudaimonic). Results showed, that higher Extraversion, Emotional stability, Intellect, Agreeableness and Conscientiousness were related to higher well‐being, confirming and expanding claims from personality theory of subjective well‐being: stable predispositions are related not only to subjective, but also to eudaimonic well‐being. Values expressing Openness to change, Self‐transcendence and Conservation were also positively correlated with well‐being, while the role of Self‐enhancement was unclear. This confirmed that growth needs expressed in Openness to change and Self‐transcendence values promote well‐being, but also that values expressing deficiency needs can be positively related to well‐being, possibly in specific circumstances. Finally, the two levels of personality (traits and values) proved to have a joint relationship to well‐being: higher Conscientiousness and Agreeableness enhanced positive relationships of Openness to change and Self‐transcendence with some aspects of well‐being.
Perfect 2‐colorings of Hamming graphs
Authors: Bespalov Evgeny A. , Krotov Denis S. , Matiushev Aleksandr A. , Taranenko Anna A. , Vorob'ev Konstantin V.
Published: March 2021

We consider the problem of existence of perfect 2‐colorings (equitable 2‐partitions) of Hamming graphs with given parameters. We start with conditions on parameters of graphs and colorings that are necessary for their existence. Next we observe known constructions of perfect colorings and propose some new ones giving new parameters. At last, we deduce which parameters of colorings are covered by these constructions and give tables of admissible parameters of 2‐colorings in Hamming graphs for small and . Using the connection with perfect colorings, we construct an orthogonal array OA(2048, 7, 4, 5).
Meta‐analysis of Studies with Multiple Contrasts and Differences in Measurement Scales
Authors: McShane Blakeley B. , Böckenholt Ulf
Published: March 2021

The common approach to meta‐analysis is overwhelmingly dominant in practice but suffers from a major limitation: It is suitable for analyzing only a single effect of interest. However, contemporary psychological research studies—and thus meta‐analyses of them—typically feature multiple dependent effects of interest. In this paper, we introduce novel meta‐analytic methodology that (a) accommodates an arbitrary number of effects—specifically, contrasts of means—and (b) yields results in standard deviation units in order to adjust for differences in the measurement scales used for the dependent measure across studies. Importantly, when all studies follow the same two‐condition study design and interest centers on the simple contrast between the two conditions as measured on the standardized mean difference (or Cohen’s d) scale, our approach is equivalent to the common approach. Consequently, our approach generalizes the common approach to accommodate an arbitrary number of contrasts. As we illustrate and elaborate on across three extensive case studies, our approach has several advantages relative to the common approach. To facilitate the use of our approach, we provide a website that implements it.
Climate vulnerability of South American freshwater fish: Thermal tolerance and acclimation
Authors: Campos Derek F. , Amanajás Renan D. , Almeida‐Val Vera M. F. , Val Adalberto L.
Published: March 2021

Freshwater fish are restricted by their physiology to rivers and lakes, and are generally limited in their capacity to disperse across basins. As a result, there is often a close match between the evolutionary history of river basins and their natural history. Thus, the regional landscape and ecological features, such as temperature, have shaped the evolution and adaptation of local fish assemblages. Climate change is expected to affect fish diversity and increase extinction, especially in low latitudes, and it has been suggested that species that inhabit low latitude species are more susceptible since they live close to their maximum thermal limits and have low capacity for acclimation. To understand the mechanisms of variation in thermal tolerance across a broad‐scale of South American fishes is fundamental to be able to assess the vulnerability of species and habitat to global warming. Herein, we present the first attempt to analyze the vulnerability of South American freshwater fish species, based on the review of upper thermal limits of 106 species from a broad range of latitudinal habitats. Our findings show that upper thermal limits decrease with latitude, while the thermal safety margin (TSM) increase. Furthermore, the latitude has little effects on the acclimation response ratio, and the TSM decreased with rising temperatures. These data suggest that thermal phenotypic acclimation has low potential for mitigating global warming. These results indicate that South American fish species living in tropical areas are more susceptible to global warming since they are already living close to their maximum habitat temperature.
Cryopyrin‐associated periodic syndrome with inflammatory bowel disease: A case study
Authors: Raymond Karen N , Martin Jonathan E D
Published: March 2021

Cryopyrin‐associated Periodic Syndrome (CAPS) is a rare, genetic autoinflammatory condition associated with NLRP3 gene mutations, causing upregulated innate immunity. CAPS manifests as systemic inflammation, causing a constellation of symptoms on a clinical spectrum of phenotypical severity: Familial Cold Autoinflammatory Syndrome being the mildest, Muckle‐Wells Syndrome moderate, and Neonatal Onset Multisystem Inflammatory Disease the most severe, with phenotype spectrum overlap. The treatment in Australia for CAPS is interleukin‐1 blockade with receptor antagonist, anakinra. We describe the case of a 46‐year‐old female with CAPS who presented to the emergency department with severe abdominal pain. Sigmoidoscope revealed severe colitis with deep ulceration, which did not respond to hydrocortisone and azathioprine and was ultimately resolved by infliximab rescue therapy, maintained in combination with anakinra.
Evaluating NA‐CORDEX historical performance and future change of western U.S. precipitation patterns and modes of variability
Authors: Meyer Jonathan David Douglas , Wang S.‐Y. Simon , Gillies Robert R. , Yoon Jin‐Ho
Published: March 2021

The western U.S. precipitation climatology, simulated by the NA‐CORDEX regional climate model ensembles, with spatial resolutions of 0.44° (14 model members) and 0.22° (15 model members), is examined to evaluate the capability of these ensembles to reproduce (1) the annual and semi‐annual precipitation cycle of several hydrologically‐important western U.S. regions and (2) localized seasonality in the amount and timing of precipitation. Similar to previous organized downscaling projects, NA‐CORDEX ensembles continue to over‐simulate wintertime precipitation over mountainous regions. However, both NA‐CORDEX ensembles showed improvements to the Desert Southwest's summertime precipitation associated with the North American Monsoon. Furthermore, the predominant dry bias found throughout the 0.44° ensemble was improved in many of the higher resolution 0.22° ensemble members; associated with enhanced mesoscale processes and improved thermodynamics driving the model's convective parameterizations. When compared against observation‐based gridded precipitation, the ability to capture the annual and semi‐annual modes of variability was starkly improved in the higher resolution 0.22° ensemble. The higher resolution members reproduced more consistent spatial patterns of variance featuring lower errors in magnitude—especially with respect to the winter‐summer and spring‐fall seasonality. A great deal of spread in model performance was found for the semi‐annual cycles, although the higher‐resolution ensemble exhibited better clustering of performance metrics. Ultimately, NA‐CORDEX model performance is still tied to the fidelity of the large‐scale parent model although we found performance is also closely related to which regional climate model was used while the future trend was more related to the parent GCM. Additionally, the value‐added via finer domain grid spacing is clear. Lastly, future projections of precipitation patterns were analysed to examine trends in the seasonality of precipitation intensity and modes of variability.
Optimizing anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: Individualizing the decision‐making process using data from the Kaiser Permanente ACLR Registry: 2018 OREF award paper
Authors: Maletis Gregory B. , Funahashi Tadashi T. , Inacio Maria C. S. , Paxton Liz W.
Published: March 2021

Despite years of study, controversy remains regarding the optimal graft for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), suggesting that a single graft type is not ideal for all patients. A large community based ACLR Registry that collects prospective data is a powerful tool that captures information and can be analyzed to optimize surgery for individual patients. The studies highlighted in this paper were designed to optimize and individualize ACLR surgery and have led to changes in surgeon behavior and improvements in patient outcomes. Kaiser Permanente (KP) is an integrated health care system with 10.6 million members and more than 50 hospitals. Every KP member who undergoes an ACLR is entered into the Registry, and prospectively monitored. The Registry uses a variety of feedback mechanisms to disseminate Registry findings to the ACLRR surgeons and appropriately influence clinical practices and enhance quality of care. Allografts were found to have a 3.0 times higher risk of revision than bone‐patellar tendon‐bone (BPTB) autografts. Allograft irradiation >1.8 Mrad, chemical graft processing, younger patients, BPTB allograft, and male patients were all associated with a higher risk of revision surgery. By providing feedback to surgeons, overall allograft use has decreased by 27% and allograft use in high‐risk patients ≤21 years of age decreased 68%. We have identified factors that influence the outcomes of ACLR. Statement of Clinical Significance: We found that information derived from an ACLR Registry and shared with the participating surgeons directly decreased the use of specific procedures and implants associated with poor outcomes.
Meniscal repair: The current state and recent advances in augmentation
Authors: Bansal Sonia , Floyd Edward R. , A Kowalski Michael , Aikman Elizabeth , Elrod Philip , Burkey Kyley , Chahla Jorge , LaPrade Robert F. , Maher Suzanne A. , Robinson Jennifer L. , Patel Jay M.
Published: March 2021

Meniscal injuries represent one of the most common orthopedic injuries. The most frequent treatment is partial resection of the meniscus, or meniscectomy, which can affect joint mechanics and health. For this reason, the field has shifted gradually towards suture repair, with the intent of preservation of the tissue. “Save the Meniscus” is now a prolific theme in the field; however, meniscal repair can be challenging and ineffective in many scenarios. The objectives of this review are to present the current state of surgical management of meniscal injuries and to explore current approaches being developed to enhance meniscal repair. Through a systematic literature review, we identified meniscal tear classifications and prevalence, approaches being used to improve meniscal repair, and biological‐ and material‐based systems being developed to promote meniscal healing. We found that biologic augmentation typically aims to improve cellular incorporation to the wound site, vascularization in the inner zones, matrix deposition, and inflammatory relief. Furthermore, materials can be used, both with and without contained biologics, to further support matrix deposition and tear integration, and novel tissue adhesives may provide the mechanical integrity that the meniscus requires. Altogether, evaluation of these approaches in relevant in vitro and in vivo models provides new insights into the mechanisms needed to salvage meniscal tissue, and along with regulatory considerations, may justify translation to the clinic. With the need to restore long‐term function to injured menisci, biologists, engineers, and clinicians are developing novel approaches to enhance the future of robust and consistent meniscal reparative techniques.
Subsistence practices in western Mediterranean Europe during the Final Gravettian. Zooarchaeological and taphonomic analysis of faunal remains from level D of Arbreda Cave (Serinyà, NE Iberian Peninsula)
Authors: Rufí Isaac , Lloveras Lluís , Soler Joaquim , Soler Narcís
Published: March 2021

During the Final Gravettian, the Reclau Caves (northeast Iberia) were intensively occupied by hunter‐gatherer communities. The study of residential level D (c. 25.4–19.7 kyr bp) of Arbreda Cave offers a new view of subsistence strategies of communities which inhabited the northeast of the Iberian Peninsula, a transition region between the steppe‐tundra and the Iberian wooded steppe biomes, during Greenland Stadial 3. Presented here are the results of the zooarchaeological and taphonomic analysis of ungulate and carnivore remains recovered from level D. The study confirms that the faunal assemblage of this level was mainly brought there by humans. The zooarchaeological analysis indicates selective hunting based on the exploitation of familial groups of horses and deer, while other ungulate taxa appear to be infrequent. Hunter‐gatherers frequented the site throughout the year, but more intensive use in spring is indicated by subadult sensu lato horses. There was extensive exploitation of ungulate carcasses: various butchery activities, marrow extraction, the use of bone as fuel and ‘less elaborate tools’ are documented. Carnivore canines were exploited to produce ornaments. The great dominance of horses reveals cold conditions and the expansion of open environments related to the chronology span of Greenland Stadial 3.
Soft Tissue Metastases in Head and Neck Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Mooney Craig P. , Gao Kan , Clark Jonathan R. , Gupta Ruta , Shannon Kerwin , Palme Carsten E. , Ebrahimi Ardalan , Ch'ng Sydney , Low Tsu‐Hui (Hubert)
Published: March 2021

Objective

Soft tissue metastases (STM) in head and neck cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (HNcSCC) are non‐nodal based metastases to the parotid and cervical soft tissues of the head and neck. This is a unique subgroup of regional metastases amongst patients with cSCC and have been shown to be associated with poor prognosis. Detailed studies of this subgroup are lacking in the literature. A retrospective cohort analysis was performed to characterize the prognostic significance of STM in HNcSCC based on individual clinicopathological features.

Methods

Patients with HNcSCC with STM were identified from the Sydney Head and Neck Cancer Institute database. Clinicopathological characteristics were extracted from the histopathological reports. Recurrence and follow‐up data were analyzed to determine disease‐free and overall survival using the Kaplan–Meier method and Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

After excluding all patients with lymph node metastasis with no STM, there were 200 patients identified (161 parotid, 32 cervical, and seven with concurrent parotid and cervical STM) with a 5‐year overall survival of 36%. In univariable analysis, age of patients, size of the deposits, location of the deposits, and patients that were not offered adjuvant radiotherapy have worse overall survival. However, on multivariable analysis, age and the number of STM deposits were independent factors that predict for worse survival.

Conclusion

The presence of STM in patients with HNcSCC is associated with poor prognosis. Increasing number of STM deposits, as well as involved margin of the regional excision, negatively impacted on the overall prognosis.

Level of Evidence

Level III – retrospective cohort study. Laryngoscope, 131:E1209–E1213, 2021
CD8+ T Cell Infiltration Predicts Chemoradiosensitivity in Nasopharyngeal or Oropharyngeal Cancer
Authors: Kawaguchi Toshihiko , Ono Takeharu , Sato Fumihiko , Kawahara Akihiko , Kakuma Tatsuyuki , Akiba Jun , Sato Kiminobu , Chitose Shun‐ichi , Umeno Hirohito
Published: March 2021

Objectives

Limited information exists regarding the associations between pre‐existing immune parameters in the tumor immune microenvironment (TIM) and either chemoradiosensitivity or prognosis for patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the nasopharynx or oropharynx involving virus‐related or nonvirus‐related tumors.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 141 patients with EBV+, p16+, or EBV− and p16− statuses who are receiving chemoradiotherapy. We performed immunohistochemistry using pretreatment biopsy specimens to analyze the programed death ligand 1 (PD‐L1) levels in tumor and immune cells and CD8+ tumor‐infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) density. We evaluated chemoradiosensitivity and prognosis with respect to these immune‐related parameters.

Results

Virus‐related tumors showed associations with both PD‐L1 expression and high CD8+ TIL density. Patients with higher CD8+ TIL density or greater numbers of PD‐L1+ tumor and immune cells showed significant rates of favorable local recurrence‐free survival (LRFS), progression‐free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS). Multivariate analyses demonstrated that higher CD8+ TIL density is an independent, significant, and favorable predictive factor for LRFS (P = .005) and OS (P = .003), although it is not a significant predictor of PFS (P = .077).

Conclusions

Higher CD8+ TIL density represents a useful and favorable biomarker of chemoradiosensitivity in patients receiving chemoradiotherapy for nasopharyngeal or oropharyngeal cancer.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 131:E1179–E1189, 2021
Primary Hyperparathyroidism During Pregnancy Treated With Parathyroidectomy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sandler Mykayla L. , Ho Rebecca , Xing Monica H. , Gidumal Sunder , Spitzer Hannah , Levy Juliana C. , Chai Raymond L.
Published: March 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

The primary objective of this study was to assess the safety of parathyroidectomy during pregnancy as treatment for hyperparathyroidism (HPTH) in comparison to nonsurgical management plans. Secondary outcomes involved analyzing the safety of surgery in the third trimester and the benefit of operating on asymptomatic pregnant patients.

Study Design

Systematic review.

Methods

PRISMA‐guided systematic review of all cases of primary hyperparathyroidism during pregnancy published in peer‐reviewed English journals on PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, and SCOPUS from 1980 to 2020.

Results

A total of 75 manuscripts were included in this review describing 382 cases of gestational hyperparathyroidism. The median maternal age was 31 years. Overall, 108 cases (28.3%) underwent parathyroidectomy during pregnancy while 274 cases (71.7%) were treated nonsurgically. The majority of surgeries took place during the second trimester (67.6%). Complications and/or deaths were less likely to occur after surgery in the second trimester (4.48%) as compared to surgery in the third trimester (21.1%). Nine surgically treated cases resulted in infant complications and/or death; however, none of these nine cases had any surgical complications. Despite these complications, the overall infant complication rate for patients who underwent surgical treatment remained lower than that of patients treated with conservative therapy (9.1% vs. 38.9%).

Conclusions

This review suggests that for all pregnant patients with diagnosed HPTH, parathyroidectomy should be considered regardless of symptomatology. Our data suggest that parathyroidectomy is associated with fewer risks than more conservative treatments and results in better fetal outcomes. Surgery during the third trimester is feasible and surgery should be considered in both symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. Laryngoscope, 131:1915–1921, 2021
Increased Stability of Polysaccharide/Silica Hybrid Sub‐Millicarriers for Retarded Release of Hydrophilic Substances
Authors: Elzayat Asmaa , Tolba Emad , Pérez‐Pla Francisco F. , Oraby Ahmed , Muñoz‐Espí Rafael
Published: March 2021

This work reports an in situ strategy for the synthesis of hybrid sub‐millispheres as carriers for encapsulating and controlling the release of hydrophilic pharmaceutical compounds in both neutral and acidic media. An organic–inorganic hydrogel is prepared by ionotropic gelation, and its efficiency for entrapping hydrophilic molecules is investigated. Two biopolymers, namely chitosan or alginate, are used to generate a scaffold network, in which the formation of silica nanoparticles takes place in situ by a sol–gel process. Model hydrophilic molecules (erioglaucine disodium salt and ephedrine hydrochloride) are encapsulated within polymer matrix, and the subsequent release is controlled by tailoring the hybrid network structure. Kinetic studies demonstrate that the release of the active substance is slower in the presence of silica, which increases as well the structural stability of the carrier in both neutral and acidic media. As a result, by incorporating nanostructured silica into the polymer matrix, the presented system overcomes the limitations of the ionotropic method for entrapping hydrophilic substances.
A new fractional SICA model and numerical method for the transmission of HIV/AIDS
Authors: Zaka Ullah Malik , Baleanu Dumitru
Published: March 2021

In this research, a new SICA model is proposed in a fractional framework for the HIV/AIDS transmission dynamics. The new model involves a Caputo‐type fractional derivative with a Mittag‐Leffler function as its nonsingular kernel. In addition, the resultant fractional equations avoid dimensional mismatching by using an auxiliary parameter. Furthermore, the nonnegativity of the solution, the equilibrium points, and their stability are studied. Additionally, we implement the model by a powerful approximation scheme based on the product‐integration rule. Comparative results with the real experimental observations, happened in Cape Verde Islands from 1987 to 2014, verify that the new fractional model is more efficient than the pre‐existent classical model with ordinary time derivatives. More to the point, the fractional order itself provides a degree of flexibility affecting the performance of the model, which is helpful to exhibit the hidden features of the disease transmission in an accurate, appropriate manner.
Utilization of indirect calorimetry to assist in determining undiagnosed hypothyroidism in a patient on mechanical ventilation
Authors: Hahn Michaelann , Brody Rebecca
Published: March 2021

Published predictive equations are required when indirect calorimetry (IC) is unavailable in the clinical setting. Several medical conditions that are not accounted for by published predictive equations can impact a patient's resting energy expenditure, such as adrenal changes or alterations in thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH). TSH levels significantly impact a patient's resting energy expenditure, with hypothyroidism decreasing and hyperthyroidism increasing energy requirements. Clinical hypothyroidism has been correlated with increased ventilator dependency in patients with critical illness and malnutrition. The following case study describes the utilization of IC to trigger a full evaluation for the diagnosis of hypothyroidism in an adult patient with multiple myeloma who was mechanically ventilated. IC results for this patient were 39% lower than estimated by predictive energy equations. TSH, thyroxine, and triiodothyronine serum assays were obtained to rule out hypothyroidism. Based on elevated TSH and low thyroxine, the patient was found to have undiagnosed hypothyroidism. Appropriate pharmaceutical and nutrition interventions were made based upon these results. This case demonstrates the impact hormonal changes can have on resting energy expenditure and how the utilization of IC can provide additional information other than energy requirements.
Developing and testing a Korean patient classification system for general wards based on nursing intensity
Authors: Ko Yukyung , Park Bohyun , Lee Hanju , Kim Donghwan
Published: March 2021

Aim

To develop a new general wards patient classification tool based on the nursing intensity level that reflects patients’ clinical characteristics and indirect nursing activities.

Design

A cross‐sectional design was adopted. This methodological study developed a patient classification system to sort general ward patients based on the intensity of their nursing needs and verified the validity and reliability of this classification system.

Methods

Thirteen experts verified the tools’ content validity. Data collectors and head nurses classified 150 patients from two hospitals with four general wards and various nurse staffing levels. Inter‐rater reliability was analysed. Staff nurses classified 846 patients following the Korean patient classification system on nursing intensity scores that reflected patients’ clinical status. Content validity was verified based on the classification results. Using K‐group cluster analysis, score ranges for four groups were identified.

Results

The developed tool includes 8 domains, (symptom management, infection control, nutrition and medication, personal hygiene and secretion, activity, sleep and rest, guidance in nursing/emotional support, nursing activity planning and coordination, indirect activity), 24 subdomains, 66 nursing activities and 124 criteria. Inter‐rater reliability showed high agreement.
Accelerate equitable change by centering adult learner needs
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: March 2021

Even before the COVID‐19 pandemic hit the world, 44 million adults in the United States were at risk of being left behind by the future of work. “Even before the pandemic, a lot of these adults were struggling, and they certainly weren't equipped to ride out this massive disruption — none of us were,” Melissa Leavitt, Director of Research at the Strada Institute of the Future of Work, said.
Retargeting reminders: How to stay top of mind for prospective students
Authors: Talarico Donna
Published: March 2021

Last month's marketing column highlighted retargeting as one way to engage with stealth applicants. This month, we dive deeper into how it can be used to recruit adult learners at any stage of their journey.
Machine Learning Algorithms for Learning Nonlinear Terms of Reduced Mechanical Models in Explicit Structural Dynamics
Authors: Kneifl Jonas , Fehr Jörg
Published: March 2021

Modeling and simulations are a pillar in the development of complex technical systems. However, for time‐critical applications a conduction of high‐fidelity simulations is not always feasible. To mitigate this computational bottleneck model order reduction (MOR) can be applied. For nonlinear models, linear MOR approaches are only practicable to a limited extend. Nonlinear approaches, on the contrary, often require deep interventions in the used simulation code. If access is not possible, non‐intrusive nonlinear model order reduction can be the key to success. The goal of this work is to implement a non‐intrusive approach using classical model order reduction along with machine learning algorithms. It relies on the idea to learn the dynamics in the reduced space. The approach aims to learn the temporal evolution of the reduced dynamics of a system. By applying the method to a problem arising from the field of structural dynamics, accurate surrogate models are received. They can speed up the simulation time significantly, while still providing high‐quality state approximations.
Cardiac tissue engineering, biomaterial scaffolds, and their fabrication techniques
Authors: Roshandel Marjan , Dorkoosh Farid
Published: March 2021

Cardiovascular diseases are the first cause of mortality around the globe. One of the promising treatment procedures is regenerating or repairing the heart tissues. Regarding this, in tissue engineering, there are variety of methods that researchers could use for scaffolds fabrication. In this review paper, some of the biomaterials and techniques, by means of which biomaterial scaffolds can be generated, are explained. Furthermore, some recent studies, in which scaffolds have been used for the cardiac tissues, have been presented, which can lead researchers to pursue more precise studies.
Multimodality treatment including whole pleura radiation therapy for DICER1‐associated pediatric pleuropulmonary blastoma
Authors: Hui Caressa , Shin Danielle H. , Wakeling Adrienne , Donaldson Sarah S. , Hazard Florette K. , Rangaswami Arun , Hiniker Susan M.
Published: March 2021

Limited data are available regarding radiation therapy in pediatric pleuropulmonary blastoma (PPB). We report the case of a 3‐year‐old girl with type II PPB successfully treated with trimodality therapy including multiagent chemotherapy, resection, and whole pleura radiation therapy. While longer follow‐up is required to confirm ultimate local tumor control and long‐term post‐treatment sequelae, currently 3.5 years following therapy, she is well, without recurrent disease or observable toxicity. The goal of this report is to add our experience to the literature regarding PPB, its management, and treatment, as prospective randomized controlled trials are not feasible due to the rarity of this disease.
Adjustments to pharmacologic therapies for hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis while on extracorporeal support
Authors: Weyand Angela C. , Barbaro Ryan P. , Walkovich Kelly J. , Frame David G.
Published: March 2021

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is an immune dysregulatory syndrome characterized by severe inflammation and end‐organ damage. Due to significant organ dysfunction, patients often require extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). In this report, we describe consideration for adjusting treatment in the context of extracorporeal organ support. We describe agents commonly used and dosing adjustments made in light of extracorporeal organ support. We report six cases that illustrate the feasibility of initiating standard HLH therapies in patients requiring these modalities.
Bonsai as a group art therapy intervention among traumatized youth in KwaZulu‐Natal
Authors: Hermann Caroll
Published: March 2021

Bonsai can be used as an art therapy tool during psychodynamic therapeutic interventions maintenance of good mental health. Bonsai is generally considered to be relaxing and is practiced by many to relieve stress and as an expression of art. The aim was to establish bonsai as an art therapy tool to overcome trauma. Fifteen isiZulu‐speaking traumatized youths in a remote area in KwaZulu‐Natal, South Africa participated in a qualitative study that investigated their narratives around experienced trauma and sense of hopelessness. Materials in the form of bonsai, tools, wire, and pots were supplied, and six sessions were held. Results indicated that the participants experienced an improvement in their mental state, which was attributed by them to the practice of the art of bonsai. Bonsai can be beneficial as a healing medium mental health tool when employed as art therapy and can be promoted in a group setting in potential rehabilitation situations.
Vulcanization kinetics of styrene butadiene rubber reinforced by graphenic particles
Authors: Raef Mohammad , Hosseini Seyed Mostaffa , Nabavian Kalat Mana , Razzaghi‐Kashani Mehdi
Published: March 2021

The present study discusses the effects of graphenic particles on the kinetics of sulfur vulcanization in styrene butadiene rubber composites. Using data obtained from a cure rheometer and fitted by an autocatalytic model, it was verified that graphenic particles follow our recently established catalytic‐networking model for the effect of particles on the sulfur vulcanization of rubber, regardless of the type of particles. The magnitude of the catalytic and networking effects depends on surface chemistry and interfacial interactions of particles with rubber that can be tailored by the chemical reduction of graphene oxide. Accordingly, the reduction process decreased the catalytic effect due to the elimination of surface functional groups and increased the networking effect due to the enhancement of filler–rubber interactions and immobilization of rubber. The latter was verified by differential scanning calorimetry and bound rubber measurements.
Resilience patterns and transitions in the Be Resilient To Breast Cancer trial: an exploratory latent profile transition analysis
Authors: Ye Zeng Jie , Zhang Zhang , Tang Ying , Liang Jian , Sun Zhe , Hu Guang Yun , Liang Mu Zi , Yu Yuan Liang
Published: March 2021

Objective

Be Resilient to Breast Cancer (BRBC), a theoretically‐derived, resilience‐based, culturally‐tailored, supportive‐expressive group therapy (SEGT), has been developed to help promote patients' resilience in breast cancer. Data from patients receiving BRBC intervention was utilized to explore and define characteristics of resilience patterns and their transitions over time.

Methods

Resilience was used as a primary outcome and 391 patients completed Resilience Scale Specific to Cancer at enrollment (T0), 2 months (T1), 6 months(T2), and 12 months (T3) after intervention. latent profile transition analysis was performed to model the change in resilience and predict positive transitioning probabilities between resilience patterns (from one pattern to another pattern with a higher level) over time.

Results

One hundred and forty four resilience patterns were identified after BRBC intervention. 33.1%, 50.3%, and 40.5% of patients experienced positive resilience transitions from T0 to T1, T1 to T2, and T2 to T3, respectively. Patients with middle age, unmarried status, higher education level, and less advanced tumor stage were more likely to experience positive resilience transitions.

Conclusion

Different transitions of resilience patterns are observed after BRBC intervention. Age, marital status, education, and tumor stage may be four factors affecting the efficacy of SEGT intervention in breast cancer.
Beyond Black and White: race and sexual identity as contributors to healthcare system distrust after breast cancer screening among US women
Authors: Dean Lorraine T. , Greene Naomi , Adams Mary Anne , Geffen Sophia R. , Malone Jowanna , Tredway Kristi , Poteat Tonia
Published: March 2021

Objective

Healthcare system distrust (HCSD) has been linked to poor breast cancer outcomes. Previous HSCD analyses have focused on Black‐White disparities; however, focusing only on race ignores the complex set of factors that form identity. We quantified the contributions of race and sexual minority (SM) identity to HCSD among US women who had received breast cancer screening.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study used intersectionality decomposition methods to assess the degree to which racial and SM identity contributed to disparate responses to the validated 9‐item HCSD Scale. The sample included online survey participants identifying as a Black or White woman living in the US, with a self‐reported abnormal breast cancer screening result in the past 24 months and/or breast cancer diagnosis since 2011.

Results

Of 649 participants, 49.4% of Black SM women (n = 85) were in the highest HCSD tertile, followed by 37.4% of White SM women (n = 123), 24.4% of Black heterosexual women (n = 156), and 19% of White heterosexual women. Controlling for age, 72% of the disparity in HCSD between Black SM women and White heterosexual women was due to SM status, 23% was due to racial identity, and 3% was due to both racial and SM identity.

Conclusions

SM identity emerged as the largest driver of HCSD disparities; however, the combined racial and SM disparity persisted. Excluding sexual identity in HCSD studies may miss an important contributor. Interventions designed to increase the HCS's trustworthiness at the provider and system levels should address both racism and homophobia.
Rare and novel GNAS gene mutations in Chinese patients with thyroid cancer
Authors: Wang Zhuo , Jing Changwen , Cao Haixia , Wu Jianzhong , Ma Rong
Published: March 2021

Background

A large number of novel, rare, and uncharacterized mutations in Tumors including thyroid cancer (TC) have been discovered. In this study, we reported two GNAS mutations in Chinese TC patients, and assessed the functional impact.

Methods

Two hundred and twenty five formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) tissue specimens from Chinese TC patients were tested by NGS. The functional impact of GNAS mutations was assessed using sorting intolerant from tolerant tools (SIFT), polymorphism phenotyping v2 (POLYPHEN‐2) and the mutation assessor. The GNAS protein structure was modeled by Iterative Threading ASSEmbly Refinement (I‐TASSER), and modeling of mutations was performed and visualised by PyMOL.

Results

Two somatic missense GNAS gene mutations including a rare c.956A>G(p.D319G) and a novel c.1399G>T(p.A467S) were detected in 225 TC tissues (2/225, 0.89%). The novel GNAS mutation c.1399G>T(p.A467S) was predicted to benign and low impact on the protein. SIFT and Mutation Assessor predicted c.956A>G(p.D319G) will be neutral and have low impact, while Polyphen‐2 indicated the mutation may be probably damaging. c.1399G>T(p.A467S) and c.956A>G(p.D319G) molecular modeling data showed two mutations not changed in Gsα, and showed little predicted effect on protein structure.

Conclusions

A rare somatic GNAS gene mutations c.956A>G(p.D319G) and a novel somatic GNAS mutation c.1399G>T(p.A467S) were found in the present study, which appeared to be associated with low impact on the protein.
CSC coupled Graham Kenney source term for hybrid models of BLEVE events: Formulation, implementation and validation
Authors: Abdel‐Jawad Madhat
Published: March 2021

Boiling liquid expanding vapor BLEVE events are notoriously difficult to model. Recently a new approach has been suggested and implemented within the code exploCFD which employs a hybrid approach for the modeling of multiple types of explosions including BLEVEs. The general approach is that the results from an analytical model are fed as a source term into a CFD calculation to model the wider domain. Here we propose a new analytical model for the modeling of BLEVE events to be used within the framework of a hybrid approach. The base Graham Kenney source term model, which predicts the source maximum pressure, is modified and also coupled with the CSC gas explosion model to incorporate the capability to model the subsequent ignition of the fuel in a complex congested and/or confined environment. We test the model against several experiments and compare the key parameters of BLEVE events which are: the maximum overpressure, and the impulse and the time history of the first peak. The simulated predictions of these key parameters using this method are shown to far outperform previous CFD, analytical and hybrid models.
Cyclodesulfurization: An Enabling Protocol for Synthesis of Various Heterocycles
Authors: Kadagathur Manasa , Shaikh Arbaz Sujat , Jadhav Govinda Shivaji , Sigalapalli Dilep Kumar , Shankaraiah Nagula , Tangellamudi Neelima D.
Published: March 2021

Heterocycles closely intertwine chemistry with biology reflecting the presence of nitrogen‐based heterocyclic ring structure in nearly 75 % of small‐molecule drugs. The number of reported strategies for the synthesis of several “privileged scaffolds” has expanded, amongst which, cyclodesulfurization of thioureas offers a quick access to highly substituted heterocycles, thereby playing a role of an excellent tool in organic syntheses of natural products and pharmaceutically active compounds. This comprehensive review emphasizes the applications of cyclodesulfurization as an integral synthetic step in the synthesis of nitrogen, oxygen and sulfur‐containing heterocycles. Furthermore, a survey of cyclodesulfurizing agents reported since 2000 is comprehensively reviewed and summarized.