bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sinonasal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Survival Outcomes Following Induction Chemotherapy vs Standard of Care Therapy
Authors: Murr Alexander T. , Lenze Nicholas R. , Weiss Jared M. , Grilley‐Olson Juneko E. , Patel Shetal A. , Shen Colette , Chera Bhishamjit S. , Zanation Adam M. , Thorp Brian D. , Sheth Siddharth H.
Published: March 2022

Objective

To compare oncologic outcomes in sinonasal squamous cell carcinoma (SNSCC) treated with standard of care (SOC) definitive therapy, consisting of surgery or chemoradiotherapy, vs induction therapy followed by definitive therapy.

Study Design

Retrospective review.

Setting

Academic tertiary care hospital.

Methods

The medical records of patients with biopsy‐proven SNSCC treated between 2000 and 2020 were reviewed for demographics, tumor characteristics, staging, treatment details, and oncologic outcomes. Patients were matched 1‐to‐1 by age, sex, and cancer stage according to treatment received. Time‐to‐event analyses were conducted.

Results

The analysis included 26 patients with locally advanced SNSCC who received either induction therapy (n = 13) or SOC (n = 13). Baseline demographics, Charlson Comorbidity Index, and median follow‐up time were well balanced. Weekly cetuximab, carboplatin, and paclitaxel were the most common induction regimen utilized. Tolerance and safety to induction were excellent. Objective responses were observed in 11 of 13 patients receiving induction. No difference in disease‐free survival was found between the induction and SOC groups at 1 or 3 years. However, when compared with SOC, induction therapy resulted in significant improvement in overall survival at 2 years (100% vs 65.3%, P =. 043) and 3 years (100% vs 48.4%, P =. 016) following completion of definitive therapy. Two patients in the SOC group developed metastatic disease, as compared with none in the induction group.

Conclusions

Induction therapy was safe and effective. When compared with SOC, induction therapy improved 3‐year overall survival.
Comparison of Caregiver‐ and Child‐Reported Quality of Life in Children With Sleep‐Disordered Breathing
Authors: Yu Phoebe Kuo , Cook Kaitlyn , Liu Jiayan , Amin Raouf S. , Derkay Craig , Elden Lisa M. , Garetz Susan L. , George Alisha S. , Ibrahim Sally , Ishman Stacey L. , Kirkham Erin M. , Naqvi S. Kamal , Radcliffe Jerilynn , Ross Kristie R. , Shah Gopi B. , Tapia Ignacio E. , Taylor H. Gerry , Zopf David A. , Redline Susan , Baldassari Cristina M.
Published: March 2022

Objective

Caregivers frequently report poor quality of life (QOL) in children with sleep‐disordered breathing (SDB). Our objective is to assess the correlation between caregiver‐ and child‐reported QOL in children with mild SDB and identify factors associated with differences between caregiver and child report.

Study Design

Analysis of baseline data from a multi‐institutional randomized trial

Setting

Pediatric Adenotonsillectomy Trial for Snoring, where children with mild SDB (obstructive apnea‐hypopnea index <3) were randomized to observation or adenotonsillectomy.

Methods

The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) assessed baseline global QOL in participating children 5 to 12 years old and their caregivers. Caregiver and child scores were compared. Multivariable regression assessed whether clinical factors were associated with differences between caregiver and child report.

Results

PedsQL scores were available for 309 families (mean child age, 7.0 years). The mean caregiver‐reported PedsQL score was higher at 75.2 (indicating better QOL) than the mean child‐reported score of 67.9 (P < .001). The agreement between caregiver and child total PedsQL scores was poor, with intraclass correlation coefficients of 0.03 (95% CI, –0.09 to 0.15) for children 5 to 7 years old and 0.21 (95% CI, 0.03‐0.38) for children 8 to 12 years old. Higher child age and health literacy were associated with closer agreement between caregiver and child report.

Conclusion

Caregiver‐ and child‐reported global QOL in children with SDB was weakly correlated, more so for young children. In pediatric SDB, child‐perceived QOL may be poorer than that reported by caregivers. Further research is needed to assess whether similar trends exist for disease‐specific QOL metrics.
Examining Associations Between Neighborhood‐Level Social Vulnerability and Care for Children With Sleep‐Disordered Breathing
Authors: Yan Flora , Pearce John L. , Ford Marvella E. , Nietert Paul J. , Pecha Phayvanh P.
Published: March 2022

Objective

We aim to investigate the impact of neighborhood‐level social vulnerability on otolaryngology care for children with obstructive sleep‐disordered breathing (SDB).

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

A tertiary children’s hospital.

Methods

Children aged 2 to 17 years with SDB were included. Residential addresses were geocoded with geographic information systems, and spatial overlays were used to assign census tract–level social vulnerability index (SVI) scores to each participant. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to estimate associations of neighborhood SVI scores and individual factors with attendance of otolaryngology referral appointment and interventions.

Results

The study included 397 patients (mean ± SD age, 5.9 ± 3.7 years; 51% male, n = 203). After adjustment for age and sex, children with higher overall SVI scores (odds ratio [OR], 0.40; 95% CI, 0.16‐0.92) and higher socioeconomic vulnerability scores (OR, 0.34; 95% CI, 0.14‐0.86) were less likely to attend their referral appointments. The odds of attending referrals were 83% lower (OR, 0.17; 95% CI, 0.09‐0.34) for Black children and 73% lower (OR, 0.27; 95% CI, 0.11‐0.65) for Hispanic children than for non‐Hispanic White children. Medicaid beneficiaries had lower odds of attending their referrals (OR, 0.20; 95% CI, 0.08‐0.48) than privately insured children. Overall SVI score was not associated with receiving recommended polysomnography or tonsillectomy.

Conclusion

In our study, children living in areas of greater social vulnerability were less likely to attend their otolaryngology referral appointments for SDB evaluation, as were children of Black race, Hispanic ethnicity, and Medicaid beneficiaries. These results suggest that neighborhood conditions, as well as patient‐level factors, influence patient access to SDB care.
Treatment of Opioid Use Disorder in Canadian Psychosocial Addiction Programs: A National Survey of Policy, Attitudes, and Practice
Authors: Hodgins David C. , Budd Mathew , Czukar Gail , Dubreucq Simon , Jackson Lois A. , Rush Brian , Quilty Lena C. , Adams Denise , Cameron Wild T.
Published: March 2022

Objective

To describe current approaches in treatment of opioid use disorder (OUD) within Canadian psychosocial outpatient, day, and residential addiction treatment programs, with an emphasis on the use of opioid agonist therapy (OAT).

Method

An online census survey was conducted in English and French of Canadian psychosocial addiction treatment programs ( N = 214).

Results

Programs estimated that 25% of their clients have OUD. A slight majority of programs provide some type of specialized services to clients with OUD (58%), most frequently providing or facilitating access to OAT but also specialized counselling, case management, education, and harm reduction services. Most programs reported that they admitted clients on OAT (88%) and only a minority expected or encouraged clients to taper (14%) or discontinue (6%). Programs focusing on client abstinence as the treatment goal were more likely to expect or encourage tapering or discontinuation than programs that focus on helping clients achieve personal consumption goals. Of programs that did not currently facilitate OAT, 44% indicated that they would provide OAT, but lacked the necessary accreditation, physician support, or other resources. No philosophical objections to OAT were noted. OAT initiation was provided by 30% of programs, 23% referred to another service within their organization, and 29% referred to a service outside their organization. The remaining 18% did not facilitate OAT initiation at all, ranging from 0% in Quebec to 23% in the Prairies. Overdose response kits were provided by 86% of programs. The majority not providing kits indicated willingness if policy support and resources were provided (67%).

Conclusions

Overall, the results demonstrate that psychosocial programs provide some specialized services for OUD but desire further support specifically to provide OAT, including training, knowledge, and the expertise of individuals qualified to prescribe and dispense OAT. Many psychosocial treatment programs expressed a need for staff and resources for this purpose.
Carbon material produced by hydrothermal carbonisation of food waste as an electrode material for supercapacitor application: A circular economy approach
Authors: Venna Saikrishna , Sharma Hari Bhakta , Mandal Debabrata , Reddy Hari Prasad , Chowdhury Shamik , Chandra Amreesh , Dubey Brajesh K
Published: March 2022

This study aims to use landfill leachate (LL) as an aqueous medium during hydrothermal carbonisation (HTC) of food waste to produce hydrochar (FWH-LL-C), which could be used as an electrode material in energy storage devices. The structural properties and electrochemical performance of the hydrochar were compared to that obtained using distilled water as a reaction medium (FWH-DW-C). The results showed that there is a difference in Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area of FWH-LL-C (220 m2 gm−1) and FWH-DW-C (319 m2 gm−1). The electrochemical properties were comparable, with FWH-LL-C having 227 F g−1 specific capacitance at 1 A g−1 current density and FWH-DW-C having 235 F g−1 specific capacitance at 1 A g−1 current density. Furthermore, at a power density of 634 W kg−1, FWH-DW-C achieved the highest energy density of 14.4 Wh kg−1. The energy retention capacity of the electrode was 98% which indicate that the material has an excellent energy storage capacity. The findings suggested that LL could be used as an alternative source of aqueous media during the HTC of food waste to produce hydrochar which could be used as an effective electrode material in supercapacitors.
A Path from Traditional Bullying to Cyberbullying in South Korea: Examining the Roles of Self-Control and Deviant Peer Association in the Different Forms of Bullying
Authors: Kim Jihoon , Lee Yeungjeom , Jennings Wesley G.
Published: March 2022

Despite a recent growth in studies on cyberbullying, extant knowledge on the underlying mechanisms of cyberbullying remain limited. The objective of the present study is to explore the dynamics of cyberbullying via traditional bullying, self-control, and delinquent peer association. Specifically, the following hypotheses guide the present study: (1) traditional bullying, low self-control, and delinquent peer association are predictive of cyberbullying, respectively, (2) the interaction between traditional bullying and low self-control has a significant impact on cyberbullying, and (3) the interaction between traditional bullying and delinquent peer association has a significant impact on cyberbullying. The present study relies on five waves of the Korean Youth Panel Survey (KYPS), a representative sample of South Korean adolescents. Data collection occurred annually and respondents were 14 years old at the first wave in 2003. KYPS is an almost gender-equal and racially/ethnically homogenous sample. Results of cross-lagged dynamic panel models show (1) significant effects of traditional bullying on cyberbullying with and without low self-control and delinquent peer affiliation, (2) the respective roles of self-control and delinquent peer association in the prediction of cyberbullying, and (3) an interaction effect between low self-control and traditional bullying on cyberbullying. These findings demonstrate the theoretical validity of self-control theory and social learning theory in online delinquent behavior as well as confirm their cross-cultural generalizability in a non-Western sample. The findings also highlight the importance of investing in early life-course prevention/intervention programs and policies to prevent and/or reduce the occurrence of bullying, regardless of whether it is being perpetrated face-to-face or online, and these programs and policies should also target components to improve self-control and reduce delinquent peer associations.
Examining the Post-High School Effects of a Primary Prevention Program on Exposure to Bullying and Sexual Violence among Emerging Adults
Authors: Williford Anne , Yoder Jamie , Sharp Julia , Tunstall Ashley , Espelage Dorothy L , Ortega Lilyana , Fulginiti Anthony
Published: March 2022

Emerging adulthood (EA) is a time of self-exploration as new opportunities for independence and autonomy arise. Yet, for some youth, this may also contribute to instability, uncertainty, and anxiety. Consequently, evidence suggests that rates of exposure to various forms of violence increase in EA. This study examined changes in experiences of bullying and sexual violence (SV) victimization among a sample of post-high school emerging adults who were exposed to a primary prevention program, Sources of Strength ( Sources). We also examined whether Sources skills (e.g., healthy coping and help-seeking) buffer against these experiences. Participants were 102 emerging adults (73.5% identifying as female, 36.3% as Latinx, and 22.6% as LGBQ), who completed surveys at three time points: 1 month prior to graduation and at 6- and 12-months post-graduation. Results suggest that as youth transition into emerging adulthood, experiences of bullying victimization were relatively low and slightly decreased whereas experiences of SV were also relatively low, but stable over time. Notably, bullying victimization was lower when female-identifying participants, relative to males, had higher levels of healthy coping. In addition, SV victimization for participants identifying as non-white was higher at lower levels of coping than those identifying as white; however, at higher levels of coping, non-white participants reported lower rates of SV victimization, while rates were relatively stable for white participants at high and low levels of coping. These findings provide some support for the Sources program model where engaging in healthy coping may protect young women from bullying exposure and buffer against SV victimization for racial and ethnic minoritized young adults. Implications for violence prevention are discussed.
Intimate Partner Violence and Depression of Mothers and Their Adolescent Children: The Roles of Housing Insecurity and System Contacts
Authors: Marçal Katherine E. , Showalter Kathryn , Maguire-Jack Kathryn
Published: March 2022

Intimate partner violence (IPV) victimization is a prominent risk factor for depression among mothers. Less is known about the long-term relationship between IPV and maternal depression, impacts of IPV exposure on children, and mechanisms linking IPV with long-term mental health problems. IPV threatens stable housing for survivors, which increases likelihood of surveillance and sanctioning by formal systems – in particular, child welfare and criminal justice. The present study investigates whether housing insecurity and system contacts mediate the relationship between maternal IPV victimization and depression among both mothers and children 10 years later. Data comes from the Fragile Families and Child Well-being Study, a longitudinal survey of at-risk families with children. Structural equation modeling investigates pathways from IPV victimization of mothers to maternal and child depression via housing insecurity and contact with the child welfare and criminal justice systems. Results show IPV victimization is directly associated with housing insecurity, child welfare contact, and adolescent depression. Further, housing insecurity leading to both types of system contact mediates the link from IPV to maternal depression; in contrast, housing insecurity alone mediates the link from IPV to depression among children when they are 15 years old. Findings suggest IPV toward mothers has enduring, multigenerational effects on mental health that unfold over a long period following victimization. Complex pathways suggest housing insecurity and contact with punitive social systems that disproportionately impact low-income families explain in part the link from IPV to depression. Lack of housing options may deter survivors from leaving violent relationships, and housing insecurity in the wake of victimization may contribute to interactions with punitive social systems. Efforts to address housing, stigma, and psychological needs of IPV survivors are crucial to stabilize families.
Local Economic Development Policies and Business Activity: Dynamic Panel Data Analysis of All County Governments in the State of Georgia
Authors: Ivonchyk Mikhail
Published: March 2022

Governments use economic development incentives to attract new investment and retain existing businesses. Empirical evidence for their effectiveness remains inconclusive. This research tests the effect of incentives on the number of firms, employees, and their payroll in a longitudinal study of all county governments in the state of Georgia over 16 years. It incorporates a comprehensive set of incentives offered by counties to attract and retain businesses and accounts for the frequency of their use and financing level. Empirical findings indicate that industrial development bonds are significantly associated with the number of firms in the average county. This association is stronger in rural areas and not significant in urban counties. Subsidies, on the other hand, tend to be negatively associated with the number of firms in urban counties, but not in rural counties. No incentive is significantly correlated with firm employees or payroll.
Effectiveness of a Digital Intervention in Increasing Flu Vaccination–Related Risk Appraisal, Intention to Vaccinate and Vaccination Behaviour Among Pregnant Women
Authors: Parsons Joanne , Grimley Catherine , Newby Katie
Published: March 2022

Background

Pregnant women are at increased risk of complications from flu, but uptake of flu vaccination is below 75% targets. Evidence suggests that changing illness risk appraisals may increase vaccination behaviour. In 2018–2019, researchers, public health specialists, and pregnant women co-designed a short animation targeting (unhelpful) beliefs underlying pregnant women’s flu risk appraisals aiming to promote vaccination uptake.

Aims

This study aimed to examine effectiveness of a digital intervention (animation) in increasing flu vaccination among pregnant women through changing illness risk appraisals.

Method

A prospective study design was used, involving convenience sampling of unvaccinated pregnant women recruited via a Qualtrics Online Panel. Participants received small payments via the panel for survey completion. Risk appraisals and intention to vaccinate were measured at baseline and immediately after intervention presentation (follow-up one). Six months later, a further survey (follow-up two) was administered measuring vaccination behaviour.

Results

Baseline and first follow-up surveys were completed by 411 participants. Watching the animation led to increased appraisals of likelihood of getting flu while pregnant and severity of flu during pregnancy, and increased intentions to accept flu vaccination during pregnancy. Of the 67 respondents who completed follow-up survey two, 38 reported having the vaccination while pregnant.

Conclusions

This study provides evidence supporting the promise of the intervention. Randomized controlled trials are required to produce definitive efficacy evidence. Should such a study prove intervention effectiveness, it could be readily embedded within existing campaigns at national and local levels by public health organizations.
L-Acetylcarnitine causes analgesia in mice modeling Fabry disease by up-regulating type-2 metabotropic glutamate receptors
Authors: Formaggio Francesco , Rimondini Roberto , Delprete Cecilia , Scalia Leonardo , Merlo Pich Emilio , Liguori Rocco , Nicoletti Ferdinando , Caprini Marco
Published: March 2022

Fabry disease (FD) is a X-linked lysosomal storage disorder caused by deficient function of the alpha-galactosidase A (α-GalA) enzyme. α-GalA deficiency leads to multisystemic clinical manifestations caused by the preferential accumulation of globotriaosylceramide (Gb3). A hallmark symptom of FD patients is neuropathic pain that appears in the early stage of the disease as a result of peripheral small fiber damage. Previous studies have shown that Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) has neuroprotective, neurotrophic, and analgesic activity in animal models of neuropathic pain. To study the action of ALC on neuropathic pain associated with FD, we treated α-GalA gene null mice (α-GalA(-/0)) with ALC for 30 days. In α-Gal KO mice, ALC treatment induced acute and long-lasting analgesia, which persisted 1 month after drug withdrawal. This effect was antagonized by single administration of LY341495, an orthosteric antagonist of mGlu2/3 metabotropic glutamate receptors. We also found an up-regulation of mGlu2 receptors in cultured DRG neurons isolated from 30-day ALC-treated α-GalA KO mice. However, the up-regulation of mGlu2 receptors was no longer present in DRG neurons isolated 30 days after the end of treatment. Taken together, these findings suggest that ALC induces analgesia in an animal model of FD by up-regulating mGlu2 receptors, and that analgesia is maintained by additional mechanisms after ALC withdrawal. ALC might represent a valuable pharmacological strategy to reduce pain in FD patients.
Changes in Maternal Depression and Children’s Behavior Problems: Investigating the Role of COVID-19-Related Stressors, Hair Cortisol, and Dehydroepiandrosterone
Authors: Doan Stacey N. , Ding Madeleine , Burniston Anna Beth , Smiley Patricia A. , Chow Chong Man , Liu Cindy H.
Published: March 2022

Few studies have used longitudinal approaches to consider the cumulative impact of COVID-19-related stressors (CRSs) on the psychological adjustment of mothers and children. In the current study, we tracked changes in maternal depressive symptoms and children’s behavioral problems from approximately 2 years before the pandemic (T1) to May through August 2020 (T2). Second, we explored maternal hair cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone as predictors of change in maternal depressive symptoms. Mothers ( N = 120) reported on maternal and child psychological adjustment at both time points. Hair hormone data were collected in the lab at T1. Results suggest increases in children’s internalizing symptoms from T1 to T2 and that higher levels of CRSs were associated with increased maternal depressive symptoms. Maternal and child adjustment were correlated. Maternal hair cortisol, but not dehydroepiandrosterone, was associated with significant increases in depressive symptoms. Findings underscore the importance of considering the family system and cumulative risk exposure on maternal and child mental health.
Culture, Religion and Strategy: The ‘Islamic’ Contours of Iran’s Nuclear Thinking
Authors: Yousuf Shafat , Hussain Syed Jaleel
Published: March 2022

This article proposes a fresh explanation of Iran’s nuclear programme by using the framework of strategic culture. The core argument of this article is that Iran’s strategic restraint in not overtly weaponising its nuclear programme is primarily driven by its strategic culture despite the continuously deteriorating regional security situation and a deeply hostile neighbourhood. This has incentivised a ‘Shia way’ of looking at and practising a strategy that sees nuclear weapons as fundamentally un-Islamic. Instead of weaponisation, Iran has shown remarkable flexibility to accept restrictions on its nuclear programme under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). Security-based realist explanations fail to account for such behaviour and can be better explained using a cultural framework. The strategic culture-based framework also explains the reasons behind Iran’s policy of nuclear hedging and its acceptability by major sections of the political elite in Iran.
TMEM43 promotes pancreatic cancer progression by stabilizing PRPF3 and regulating RAP2B/ERK axis
Authors: Li Junqiang , Song Yang , Zhang Chao , Wang Ronglin , Hua Lei , Guo Yongdong , Gan Dongxue , Zhu Liaoliao , Li Shanshan , Ma Peixiang , Yang Cheng , Li Hong , Yang Jing , Shi Jingjie , Liu Xiaonan , Su Haichuan
Published: March 2022

Background

Transmembrane protein 43 (TMEM43), a member of the transmembrane protein subfamily, plays a critical role in the initiation and development of cancers. However, little is known concerning the biological function and molecular mechanisms of TMEM43 in pancreatic cancer.

Methods

In this study, TMEM43 expression levels were analyzed in pancreatic cancer samples compared with control samples. The relationship of TMEM43 expression and disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) were assessed in pancreatic cancer patients. In vitro and in vivo assays were performed to explore the function and role of TMEM43 in pancreatic cancer. Coimmunoprecipitation (co-IP) followed by protein mass spectrometry was applied to analyze the molecular mechanisms of TMEM43 in pancreatic cancer.

Results

We demonstrated that TMEM43 expression level is elevated in pancreatic cancer samples compared with control group, and is correlated with poor DFS and OS in pancreatic cancer patients. Knockdown of TMEM43 inhibited pancreatic cancer progression in vitro, decreased the percentage of S phase, and inhibited the tumorigenicity of pancreatic cancer in vivo. Moreover, we demonstrated that TMEM43 promoted pancreatic cancer progression by stabilizing PRPF3 and regulating the RAP2B/ERK axis.

Conclusions

The present study suggests that TMEM43 contributes to pancreatic cancer progression through the PRPF3/RAP2B/ERK axis, and might be a novel therapeutic target for pancreatic cancer.
MiR-5195-3p functions as a tumor suppressor in prostate cancer via targeting CCNL1
Authors: Zeng Xing , Hu Zhiquan , Shen Yuanqing , Wei Xian , Gan Jiahua , Liu Zheng
Published: March 2022

Background

Accumulating evidence indicates that miR-5195-3p exerts tumor-suppressive roles in several tumors. However, the clinical significance and biological function of miR-5195-3p in prostate cancer (PCa) have not been reported yet.

Methods

The expression levels of miR-5195-3p and Cyclin L1 (CCNL1) were determined using quantitative real-time PCR in clinical specimens and cell lines. The clinical significance of miR-5195-3p in patients with PCa was evaluated using Kaplan–Meier survival analysis and Cox regression models. Cell proliferation and cell cycle distribution were measured by CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry, respectively. The association between miR-5195-3p and CCNL1 was analyzed by luciferase reporter assay.

Results

MiR-5195-3p expression levels were significantly downregulated in 69 paired PCa tissues compared with matched adjacent normal tissues. The decreased miR-5195-3p expression was associated with Gleason score and TNM stage, as well as worse survival prognosis. The in vitro experiments showed that miR-5195-3p overexpression suppressed the proliferation and cell cycle G1/S transition in PC-3 and DU145 cells. Elevated miR-5195-3p abundance obviously impaired tumor formation in vivo using PC-3 xenografts. Mechanistically, CCNL1 was a direct target of miR-5195-3p in PCa cells, which was inversely correlated with miR-5195-3p in PCa tissues. Importantly, CCNL1 knockdown imitated, while overexpression reversed, the effects of miR-5195-3p overexpression on PCa cell proliferation and cell cycle G1/S transition.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that miR-5195-3p functions as a tumor suppressor by targeting CCNL1 in PCa.
Synthesis of typical sulfonamide antibiotics with [14C]- and [13C]-labeling on the phenyl ring for use in environmental studies
Authors: Wu Xuan , Yao Yao , Wang Lianhong , Zhou Dashun , Sun Feifei , Chen Jianqiu , Corvini Philippe Francois-Xavier , Ji Rong
Published: March 2022

Background

Due to their widespread use, sulfonamide antibiotics (SAs) have become ubiquitous environmental contaminants and thus a cause of public concern. However, a complete understanding of the behavior of these pollutants in complex environmental systems has been hampered by the unavailability and high cost of isotopically labeled SAs.

Results

Using commercially available uniformly [14C]- and [13C]-labeled aniline as starting materials, we synthesized [phenyl-ring-14C]- and [phenyl-ring-13C]-labeled sulfamethoxazole (SMX), sulfamonomethoxine (SMM), and sulfadiazine (SDZ) in four-step (via the condensation of labeled N-acetylsulfanilyl chloride and aminoheterocycles) or five-step (via the condensation of labeled N-acetylsulfonamide and chloroheterocycles) reactions, with good yields (5.0–22.5% and 28.1–54.1% for [14C]- and [13C]-labeled SAs, respectively) and high purities (> 98.0%).

Conclusion

The synthesis of [14C]-labeled SAs in milligram amounts enables the preparation of labeled SAs with high specific radioactivity. The efficient and feasible methods described herein can be applied to the production of a variety of [14C]- or [13C]-labeled SAs for studies on their environmental behavior, including the fate, transformation, and bioaccumulation of these antibiotics in soils and aqueous systems.
Positive signs on physical examination are not always indications for endotracheal tube intubation in patients with facial burn
Authors: Huang Ruo-Yi , Chen Szu-Jen , Hsiao Yen-Chang , Kuo Ling-Wei , Liao Chien-Hung , Hsieh Chi-Hsun , Bajani Francesco , Fu Chih-Yuan
Published: March 2022

Background

After clinical evaluation in the emergency department (ED), facial burn patients are usually intubated to protect their airways. However, the possibility of unnecessary intubation or delayed intubation after admission exists. Objective criteria for the evaluation of inhalation injury and the need for airway protection in facial burn patients are needed.

Methods

Facial burn patients between January 2013 and May 2016 were reviewed. Patients who were and were not intubated in the ED were compared. All the intubated patients received routine bronchoscopy and laboratory tests to evaluate whether they had inhalation injuries. The patients with and without confirmed inhalation injuries were compared. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify the independent risk factors for inhalation injuries in the facial burn patients. The reasons for intubation in the patients without inhalation injuries were also investigated.

Results

During the study period, 121 patients were intubated in the ED among a total of 335 facial burn patients. Only 73 (60.3%) patients were later confirmed to have inhalation injuries on bronchoscopy. The comparison between the patients with and without inhalation injuries showed that shortness of breath (odds ratio = 3.376, p = 0.027) and high total body surface area (TBSA) (odds ratio = 1.038, p = 0.001) were independent risk factors for inhalation injury. Other physical signs (e.g., hoarseness, burned nostril hair, etc.), laboratory examinations and chest X-ray findings were not predictive of inhalation injury in facial burn patients. All the patients with a TBSA over 60% were intubated in the ED even if they did not have inhalation injuries.

Conclusions

In the management of facial burn patients, positive signs on conventional physical examinations may not always be predictive of inhalation injury and the need for endotracheal tube intubation in the ED. More attention should be given to facial burn patients with shortness of breath and a high TBSA. Airway protection is needed in facial burn patients without inhalation injuries because of their associated injuries and treatments.
Consensus care recommendations for alfapump® in cirrhotic patients with refractory or recurrent ascites
Authors: Aagaard Niels Kristian , Malago Massimo , De Gottardi Andrea , Thomas Michael , Sauter Gerd , Engelmann Cornelius , Aranovich David , Cohen Michal , Thévenot Thierry , Ehmann Thomas , Capel Jeroen , Angeli Paolo , Jalan Rajiv , Stirnimann Guido
Published: March 2022

Background

The alfapump® is an implantable class III medical device that pumps ascitic fluid from the peritoneal space to the urinary bladder from where it is excreted. The pump reduces or abrogates the need for repeated paracentesis in patients with recurrent or refractory ascites.

Aims

To improve outcomes for alfapump® implantation and pre- and post-implant patient management in both clinical trial and real-world settings by development of consensus recommendations.

Methods

The alfapump® working group consisting of hepatologists and surgeons with extensive experience in implantation of the alfapump® and patient management met on two occasions: (1) to determine the key areas where recommendations should be made; and (2) to discuss the experiences of the working group within those areas and formulate draft statements. Developed statements were submitted to the group and consensus sought on relevance and wording through a collaborative iterative approach in order to consolidate the recommendations into consensus statements. Only recommendations agreed upon unanimously were included.

Results

Twenty-three consensus recommendations were developed in the areas of pre-implantation procedure, (three statements), surgical implant procedure (11 statements), immediate post-implant care (three statements) and long-term management (six statements).

Conclusions

The consensus statements are a valuable reference resource for physicians managing patients with the alfapump® and for those considering management strategies for patients with refractory ascites.
Characterizing reflux on high resolution esophageal manometry with impedance
Authors: Jehangir Asad , Malik Zubair , Parkman Henry P.
Published: March 2022

Background

In some patients, reflux at esophagogastric junction (EGJ) can be seen on the impedance portion of the high-resolution esophageal manometry with impedance (HREMI) studies. How this correlates with reflux on conventional esophageal reflux monitoring studies is unknown. We aimed to: (1) determine prevalence of reflux seen on HREMI, (2) correlate reflux during HREMI with reflux on esophageal reflux monitoring studies.

Methods

Patients undergoing HREMI and ambulatory reflux monitoring (7/2019 to 2/2020) were studied. Healthy volunteers (HVs) underwent HREMI.

Key results

Sixteen HVs underwent HREMI (no reflux on HREMI = 13, reflux on 1 swallow on HREMI = 3). Of 229 patients (mean age 56.4 ± 1.0, 68.1% females) undergoing HREMI, 47 (20.5%) had pathologic reflux at EGJ on HREMI (reflux on ≥ 2 swallows). The patients with reflux on HREMI had more frequent reflux events on multichannel intraluminal impedance-pH (MII-pH) than patients without reflux on HREMI (63.5 ± 7.1 vs 42.1 ± 2.3,p = 0.01). On ambulatory pH monitoring, 113 (49.3%) had GERD and 42 (18.3%) borderline results. Patients with reflux on HREMI more commonly had GERD (56.3% vs 48.6%) and borderline results (28.1% vs 18.3%) than patients without reflux on HREMI (p = 0.01). Reflux on ≥ 2 swallows on HREMI had a specificity of 83.6% and sensitivity of 24.8% for GERD. Reflux on ≥ 5 swallows on HREMI improved specificity to 91.4%, with sensitivity of 14.2% for GERD.

Conclusions and inferences

Amongst patients undergoing HREMI, 20.5% had pathologic reflux at EGJ on HREMI. Patients with reflux on HREMI more frequently had GERD on ambulatory pH monitoring. Reflux on HREMI had good specificity but low sensitivity for GERD.
Body size in early life and the risk of postmenopausal breast cancer
Authors: Yang TienYu Owen , Cairns Benjamin J. , Pirie Kirstin , Green Jane , Beral Valerie , Floud Sarah , Reeves Gillian K.
Published: March 2022

Background

Greater early life adiposity has been reported to reduce postmenopausal breast cancer risk but it is unclear whether this association varies by tumour characteristics. We aimed to assess associations of early life body size with postmenopausal breast cancer and its subtypes, allowing for body size at other ages.

Methods

A total of 342,079 postmenopausal UK women who reported their body size at age 10, clothes size at age 20, and body mass index (BMI) at baseline (around age 60) were followed by record linkage to national databases for cancers and deaths. Cox regression yielded adjusted relative risks (RRs) of breast cancer, overall and by tumour subtype, in relation to body size at different ages.

Results

During an average follow-up of 14 years, 15,506 breast cancers were diagnosed. After adjustment for 15 potential confounders, greater BMI at age 60 was associated with an increased risk of postmenopausal breast cancer (RR per 5 kg/m2=1.20, 95%CI 1.18-1.22) whereas greater adiposity in childhood and, to a lesser extent, early adulthood, was associated with a reduced risk (0.70, 0.66-0.74, and 0.92, 0.89-0.96, respectively). Additional adjustment for midlife BMI strengthened associations with BMI at both age 10 (0.63, 0.60-0.68) and at age 20 (0.78, 0.75-0.81). The association with midlife adiposity was confined to hormone sensitive subtypes but early life adiposity had a similar impact on the risk of all subtypes.

Conclusion

Early life and midlife adiposity have opposite effects on postmenopausal breast cancer risk and the biological mechanisms underlying these associations are likely to differ.
What helps older people persevere with yoga classes? A realist process evaluation of a COVID-19-affected yoga program for fall prevention
Authors: Haynes Abby , Gilchrist Heidi , Oliveira Juliana S. , Grunseit Anne , Sherrington Catherine , Lord Stephen , Tiedemann Anne
Published: March 2022

Background

Falls among older people are a major global health concern. This process evaluation investigates the experience of participants aged 60+ in a yoga program aimed at preventing falls which transitioned from studio-based classes to online classes in response to COVID-19 restrictions. We sought to understand how the Successful AGEing (SAGE) yoga program functioned in both settings and as a hybrid program, and to explain why it worked well for most participants.

Methods

Realist process evaluation was used to explore the factors that facilitated a successful transition for most participants, and to consider why it did not work for a minority. This approach develops program theories that describe which mechanisms an intervention is (or is not) activating, and how this is mediated by context to generate process outcomes. Data included interviews with participants (n = 21) and yoga instructors (n = 3), self-report feedback forms (n = 46), observation of classes and routine process measures.

Results

Factors that facilitated a successful transition for most participants included the quality of yoga instruction, the program format and inherent characteristics of yoga. Gains in transitioning online included continuity and greater convenience. Losses included perceived reduction in the effectiveness of yoga instruction. There were greater challenges for people struggling with pain and in disadvantageous home environments. We identified six program theories configured around 16 mechanisms: 1. It’s worth the effort and 2. In expert hands (these had the same mechanisms: value expectancy, therapeutic alliance and achievement/mastery), 3. A communal experience (these mechanisms were shared experience, social connection, social comparison and peer checking), 4. Putting yoga within reach (accessibility, convenience, gratitude), 5. Building yoga habits (purposeful structure, momentum, accountability and continuity), and 6. Yoga’s special properties (embodiment and mindfulness).

Conclusions

This study showed that online delivery of a yoga program for people aged 60+ retained much of the value of a face-to-face program for the majority of participants, and increased the value for some. The structured, communal nature of an organised group program delivered by a skilled instructor, together with yoga’s intrinsic focus on mindfulness, facilitated continued engagement and perceived health benefits, despite the change in delivery mode.
Spatiotemporal analysis of dengue fever in Burkina Faso from 2016 to 2019
Authors: Ouattara Cheick Ahmed , Traore Seydou , Sangare Ibrahim , Traore Tiandiogo Isidore , Meda Ziemlé Clément , Savadogo Léon G. Blaise
Published: March 2022

Background

Burkina Faso experienced an epidemic resurgence of dengue in 2016, which led to the implementation of several control strategies. In order to allow a better adaptation of these strategies, we studied the spatio-temporal distribution of dengue.

Methods

Monthly dengue cases from 2016 to 2019, aggregated at the health district level, were used to map the crude incidence, excess risk, and smoothed incidence of dengue in Burkina Faso with GeoDa software. A Kulldoff scan on Satscan software was then used to identify spatio-temporal clustering of cases.

Results

The results show that the distribution of dengue fever across the health districts of Burkina Faso is heterogeneous. Dengue was considered non-endemic in 9 out of the 70 health districts, minimally endemic in 45 districts (< 10 incidences), moderately endemic (10-100 incidences) in 12 districts, and highly endemic (> 100 incidences) in 4 districts. The main cluster covered the health districts of Baskuy, Nongr-massom, Sig-noghin, Boulmiougou, and Bogodogo. The months of October and November corresponded to the peak of cases and a significant temporal cluster in 2017.

Conclusion

This study identified the spatial and temporal clustering of dengue cases in Burkina Faso. These results may help to develop better preventive strategies.
Long-term exposure to fine particle matter and all-cause mortality and cause-specific mortality in Japan: the JPHC Study
Authors: Sawada Norie , Nakaya Tomoki , Kashima Saori , Yorifuji Takashi , Hanibuchi Tomoya , Charvat Hadrien , Yamaji Taiki , Iwasaki Motoki , Inoue Manami , Iso Hiroyasu , Tsugane Shoichiro
Published: March 2022

Background

Many epidemiological studies have reported the association between exposure to particulate matter and mortality, but long-term prospective studies from Asian populations are sparse. Furthermore, associations at low levels of air pollution are not well clarified. Here, we evaluated associations between long-term exposure to particulate matter <2.5 µg/m3 (PM2.5) and mortality in a Japanese cohort with a relatively low exposure level.

Methods

The Japan Public Health Center-based Prospective Study (JPHC Study) is a prospective cohort study of men and women aged 40-69 years in 1990 who were followed up through 2013 for mortality. In this cohort of 87,385 subjects who did not move residence during follow-up, average PM2.5 levels from 1998 to 2013 by linkage with 1-km2 grids of PM2.5 concentration were assigned to the residential addresses of all participants. To avoid exposure misclassification, we additionally evaluated the association between 5-year (1998-2002) cumulative exposure level and mortality during the follow-up period from 2003 to 2013 in 79,078 subjects. Cox proportional hazards models were used to calculate the association of long-term exposure to PM2.5 on mortality, with adjustment for several individual confounding factors.

Results

Average PM2.5 was 11.6 µg/m3. Average PM2.5 exposure was not associated with all-cause mortality or cancer and respiratory disease mortality. However, average PM2.5 was positively associated with mortality from cardiovascular disease (hazard ratio (HR) of 1.23 (95%CI=1.08-1.40) per 1-µg/m3 increase; in particular, HR in mortality from cerebrovascular disease was 1.34 (95%CI=1.11-1.61) per 1-µg/m3 increase. Additionally, these results using cumulative 5-year PM2.5 data were similar to those using average PM2.5 over 15 years.

Conclusions

We found evidence for a positive association between PM2.5 exposure and mortality from cardiovascular disease in a Japanese population, even in an area with relatively low-level air pollution.
The physical and mental health of Australian truck drivers: a national cross-sectional study
Authors: van Vreden Caryn , Xia Ting , Collie Alex , Pritchard Elizabeth , Newnam Sharon , Lubman Dan I. , de Almeida Neto Abilio , Iles Ross
Published: March 2022

Background

The negative health consequences of truck driving are well documented. However, despite the distinct occupational challenges between long- and short-haul driving, limited research has been conducted on how the health profile of these drivers differ. The aims of this study were to characterise the physical and mental health of Australian truck drivers overall, and to identify any differences in factors influencing the health profile of long-haul compared to short-haul drivers.

Design, setting, and participants

In this cross-sectional study, 1390 Australian truck drivers completed an online survey between August 2019 and May 2020. Questions included validated measures of psychological distress, general health, work ability and health-related quality-of-life. Participants driving 500 km or more per day were categorised as long-haul and those driving less than 500 km as short-haul.

Results

The majority of survey respondents were classified as either overweight (25.2%) or obese (54.3%). Three in ten reported three or more chronic health conditions (29.5%) and poor general health (29.9%). The most commonly diagnosed conditions were back problems (34.5%), high blood pressure (25.8%) and mental health problems (19.4%). Chronic pain was reported by 44% of drivers. Half of drivers reported low levels of psychological distress (50.0%), whereas 13.3 and 36.7% experienced severe or moderate level of psychological distress respectively. There were a small number of differences between the health of long- and short-haul drivers. A higher proportion of short-haul drivers reported severe psychological distress compared to long-haul drivers (15.2% vs 10.4%, χ2 = 8.8, 0.012). Long-haul drivers were more likely to be obese (63.0% vs 50.9%, χ2 = 19.8, < 0.001) and report pain lasting over a year (40.0% vs 31.5%, χ2 = 12.3, 0.006). Having more than one diagnosed chronic condition was associated with poor mental and physical health outcomes in both long- and short-haul drivers.

Conclusion

Australian truck drivers report a high prevalence of multiple physical and mental health problems. Strategies focused on improving diet, exercise and preventing chronic conditions and psychological distress, that can also be implemented within the unique occupational environment of trucking are needed to help improve driver health. Further research is needed to explore risk and protective factors that specifically affect health in both short-haul and long-haul drivers.