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This study aimed to estimate the effects of an intensive school-based physical education intervention on the risk of developing overweight or obesity in primary school students when accounting for the moderating role of socioeconomic status. This quasi-experimental trial included data from primary school students participating in an intensive physical education program comprising 4.5 h of weekly physical activity compared to 1.5 h per week in the control group. Socioeconomic status was estimated by maternal education. The study outcome was overweight or obesity status determined by longitudinal measures of body mass index over 4.5 years. Intervention effects and the moderating role of socioeconomic status were estimated using multilevel mixed-effects logistic models. We included data from 588 children in the intensive physical education group and 415 children in the control group (52.9% female; mean [SD] age = 8.5 [1.4] years). There was a significant 3-way interaction between intervention group, socioeconomic status, and time (p = 0.018). Within the control group, children from the low socioeconomic strata had a greater probability of being overweight or obese from 36 months onward compared to children from the high socioeconomic strata. The physical activity intervention reduced the risk of overweight or obesity among children from the low socioeconomic strata; after 4.5 years, the risk reduction (95% CI) was 11.4 (2.4 to 20.4)%. Conclusion: A school-based physical activity intervention, delivered through a physical education program, effectively reduces overweight and obesity risk in disadvantaged primary school students and may address some of the adverse health-related impacts of living with low socioeconomic status. What is Known: • School-based physical activity programs offer promising solutions for improving health-related physical activity in children. However, the impact of socioeconomic context on the effectiveness of these programs is unclear. What is New: • An intensive school-based physical activity intervention effectively reduces overweight and obesity risk in disadvantaged primary school students and may address some of the adverse health-related impacts of living with low socioeconomic status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This ethnographic research was conducted at two intensive Scandinavian music academies with the aim of examining the extent to which there is a Nordic approach to advanced instrumental music teaching. Data collected through observations, interviews, and discussions revealed academy structures, instrumental techniques, and the use of metaphors in teaching. The study found a blend of Nordic pedagogical traditions, instrument-specific approaches, and personal teaching methods. The Scandinavian instructors tended to employ personalized coaching styles, emphasizing independent thought and interpretation. A characteristic form of politeness and directness was identified among the Nordic pedagogues that shares some features with renowned masterclass teachers in other contexts. Further research is needed to fully grasp this Nordic approach, potentially leading to typologies or explanatory models. The study underscores the need for continued exploration and analysis of diverse instructional strategies and cultural influences in music education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is a global priority to better manage the biosphere, but action must be informed by comprehensive data on the abundance and distribution of species. The acquisition of such information is currently constrained by high costs. DNA barcoding can speed the registration of unknown animal species, the most diverse kingdom of eukaryotes, as the BIN system automates their recognition. However, inexpensive sequencing protocols are critical as the census of all animal species is likely to require the analysis of a billion or more specimens. Barcoding involves DNA extraction followed by PCR and sequencing with the last step dominating costs until 2017. By enabling the sequencing of highly multiplexed samples, the Sequel platforms from Pacific BioSciences slashed costs by 90%, but these instruments are only deployed in core facilities because of their expense. Sequencers from Oxford Nanopore Technologies provide an escape from high capital and service costs, but their low sequence fidelity has, until recently, constrained adoption. However, the improved performance of its latest flow cells (R10.4.1) erases this barrier. This study demonstrates that a MinION flow cell can characterise an amplicon pool derived from 100,000 specimens while a Flongle flow cell can process one derived from several thousand. At $0.01 per specimen, DNA sequencing is now the least expensive step in the barcode workflow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractMotivated by the change-making problem, we extend the notion of greediness to sets of positive integers not containing the element 1, and from there to numerical semigroups. We provide an algorithm to determine if a given set (not necessarily containing the number 1) is greedy. We also give specific conditions for sets of cardinality three, and we prove that numerical semigroups generated by three consecutive integers are greedy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThis review delves into the evolving landscape of mediated drug delivery, focusing on the versatility of a variety of drug delivery vehicles such as microspheres, microbots, and nanoparticles (NPs). The review also expounds on the critical components and mechanisms for light-mediated drug delivery, including photosensitizers and light sources such as visible light detectable by the human eye, ultraviolet (UV) light, shorter wavelengths than visible light, and near-infra-red (NIR) light, which has longer wavelength than visible light. This longer wavelength has been implemented in drug delivery for its ability to penetrate deeper tissues and highlighted for its role in precise and controlled drug release. Furthermore, this review discusses the significance of these drug delivery vehicles towards a spectrum of diverse applications spanning gene therapy, cancer treatment, diagnostics, and microsurgery, and the materials used in the fabrication of these vehicles encompassing polymers, ceramics, and lipids. Moreover, the review analyses the challenges and limitations of such drug delivery vehicles as areas of improvement to provide researchers with valuable insights for addressing current obstacles in the progression of drug delivery. Overall, this review underscores the potential of light-mediated drug delivery to revolutionise healthcare and personalised medicine, providing precise, targeted, and effective therapeutic interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Educational policies tend to be shaped by the interaction of sociohistorical contexts with global forces, for which the issues of diversity and inclusion in music education are particularly complex. This study examines how inclusivity is conceptualised in the field of music education in both Luxembourg and Japan. Reviewing the historical construction and distinctive characteristics of national music education systems, we analyse how the notion of inclusive music education is understoood, and identify current opportunities and obstacles towards full inclusion of diverse students. The study applies the analytical frameworks of (i) global influences and isomorphism, (ii) historical institutionalism, and (iii) Göransson and Nilholm’s typology of inclusive education. Based on analyses of curricula and policies, and interviews with (music) teachers in schools and organisations, we determined that unequal access to music education remains, and standardised approaches often hinder participation of diverse students while cross-sector partnerships offer new opportunities for inclusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lebrikizumab, a high-affinity monoclonal antibody targeting IL-13, previously demonstrated clinical efficacy in three randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase 3 trials that included adults and adolescents with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD): ADvocate1, ADvocate2, and ADhere. Aim: This subset analysis evaluated 16-week physician- and patient-reported outcomes of lebrikizumab in the adolescent patients enrolled in these three trials. Methods: Eligible adolescents (≥12 to <18 years weighing ≥40kg) were randomized 2:1 to subcutaneous lebrikizumab (500 mg loading doses at baseline and Week 2 followed by 250 mg every 2 weeks) or placebo as monotherapy in ADvocate1&2, and in combination with topical corticosteroids (TCS) in the ADhere study. Week 16 analyses included clinical efficacy outcomes (IGA (0,1) with ≥2-point improvement, EASI 75, EASI 90), patient-reported Pruritus NRS ≥4-point improvement and Sleep-Loss Scale ≥2-point improvement. Results: Pooled ADvocate1&2 16-week results in lebrikizumab (N = 67) vs placebo (N = 35) were: IGA (0,1) 46.6% vs 14.3% (p < 0.01), EASI 75 62.0% vs 17.3% (p < 0.001), EASI 90 40.7% vs 11.5% (p < 0.01), Pruritus NRS 48.9% vs 13.1% (p < 0.01), and Sleep-Loss Scale 26.9% vs 6.9% (p = 0.137). Corresponding results for ADhere, (lebrikizumab + TCS, N = 32; placebo + TCS, N = 14), were consistent. Conclusions: Lebrikizumab treatment demonstrated efficacy in improving the signs and symptoms of AD in adolescent patients, consistent with the ADvocate and ADhere overall population results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Elderly patients under invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) are more susceptible to muscle weakness. In the out-of-hospital environment, there are benefits to transcutaneous electrical diaphragmatic stimulation (TEDS), which is an easy-to-apply and low-cost technique. Objective: To evaluate the effect of TEDS on respiratory muscle strength, diaphragm thickness (DT), and IMV time in critically ill elderly patients. Methods: This was a randomized controlled trial in which patients were divided into an experimental group (EG) and a control group (CG). TEDS started 24 h after orotracheal intubation and lasted until the end of weaning. Both groups underwent the following assessments during the spontaneous breathing test after weaning from mechanical ventilation (MV): measurement of respiratory muscle strength by pressure gauge, analysis of DT by lung ultrasound, and extubation failure prevention checklist. Results: There were 23 participants in the EG and 21 in the CG. The median age was 66 (60–79) years. The mean values of the diaphragmatic thickening index in the EG and CG participants were 99.13 ± 26.75 and 66.88 ± 31.77, respectively (p =.001, Cohen's d = 1.094). The mean values of maximum inspiratory pressure in the EG and CG were 22.04 ± 3.41 and 19.34 ± 4.23 cmH2O, respectively (p =.005, Cohen's d = 0.698). The Tobin index and the integrative weaning index were similar between groups (p =.584 and p =.102, respectively). The duration of MV in the EG and CG was 6.28 ± 2.68 and 9.21 ± 2.76 days, respectively (p =.001, Cohen's d = -1.075). Conclusion: Critically ill elderly patients receiving TEDS had shorter MV time, greater inspiratory muscle strength, and greater diaphragmatic contraction capacity according to their thickness fraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phosphate fertilization improves banana yields, but due to the physiological effects of phosphorus on plants, it can also be used to improve the physical and chemical characteristics of the fruits, which can contribute to increasing the processing of green bananas and reducing losses in the production chain. Herein, the productivity of bunches and fruit, the biometric analysis of the fruit, dry matter content, and the chemical composition of immature fruit were evaluated when the cultivar BRS SCS Belluna (AAA) was grown under different levels of phosphate fertilization for two harvest cycles. The results showed that phosphate fertilizer levels interfered with bunch yield and fruit mass in both cycles, leading to yield gains of 44.3% (1st cycle) and 84.0% (2nd cycle) in bunches and 51.8% (1st cycle) and 81.9% (2nd cycle) in fruits. Fertilization promoted gains of up to 33.5% in fruit mass and enhanced the resistant starch content in the pulp, leading to an increase of 15.1%. The phosphorus, potassium, and calcium contents in green fruits increased with fertilizer levels in the first cycle, improving nutritional quality. These results have useful applications because they indicate that adequate management of phosphate fertilization can increase the potential of the cultivar for industrial processing of green fruits and the nutritional quality of the derived products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen is a key component for a successful energy transition on a large scale since it boasts remarkable energy efficiency. Currently, H2 is mainly obtained through steam reforming of natural gas or hydrocarbons and low‐carbon alcohols but contains approximately 2 % CO, a contaminant detrimental to H2 fuel cells. Herein, an N‐doped carbon nanotube was prepared via the soft nitriding method to support nickel and cobalt for the PROX‐CO as the main reaction for hydrogen purification. The most efficient condition was achieved when the reaction temperature reached 250 °C and the Ni and Co loading rate was 7.5 %. In this situation, the CO2 selectivity reached almost 33 %, and CO conversion was 61 %. Regarding CO conversion among bimetallic catalysts at 250 °C a minimal variation occurred and the catalyst 10Ni/N‐CNTs slightly outperformed (64.4 %). The effect of N‐doping on the carbon nanotube's structure was also revealed. Nitrogen atoms incorporated into the lattice of carbon nanotubes impart an electron‐donor character. Consequently, Co oxide reduction to the metallic phase occurred at significantly lower temperatures compared to other supports such as SiO2, Al2O3, and graphene. For the bimetallic catalysts, the strong metal‐support interaction facilitated obtaining different oxide and metallic phases at milder temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the importance of writing skill development, we know very little about how writing instruction is provided to students with visual impairments (VI) with and without co-occurring disabilities (e.g., multiple disabilities, deaf-blindness). The purpose of this study was to survey a national sample of U.S. teachers of students with visual impairments (TSVIs) on several important constructs, including their preparation to teach writing; their beliefs, attitudes, and experiences about teaching writing; and the writing practices they use for students with various visual conditions. We received responses from 457 TSVIs. The results showed that TSVIs vary considerably in their preparation to teach writing and disagree as to whether writing instruction (above and beyond braille) is part of their responsibilities. Most TSVIs indicated that they believe writing to be important for their students with VI, and they reported using various writing practices in their instruction within different student groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic has had serious implications on the health and well-being of student-athletes. The present study explored the athletic experiences of NCAA Division II college athletes during the competitive hiatus caused by the pandemic, as well as in their return to sport participation. Twenty male and female student-athletes from a variety of sports (freshman = 2, sophomores = 4, seniors = 9, and graduate = 5) participated in semistructured interviews to explore how the pandemic affected their athletic identity, anxiety, and mental health. Through the use of thematic content analysis, the following major themes were identified: (a) influence of COVID on athletic identity, (b) increased anxiety during COVID, (c) social aspects of sport participation, and (d) factors that influence mental health. Findings indicated a combination of positive and negative effects on the athletic identity, anxiety, and mental health and well-being of student-athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Merriam-Webster and Oxford define a xenobiotic as any substance foreign to living systems. Allura Red AC (a.k.a. E129; FD&C Red No. 40), a synthetic food dye extensively used in manufacturing ultra-processed foods and therefore highly prevalent in our food supply, falls under this category. The surge in synthetic food dye consumption during the 70s and 80s was followed by an epidemic of metabolic diseases and the emergence of early-onset colorectal cancer in the 1990s. This temporal association raises significant concerns, particularly given the widespread inclusion of synthetic food dyes in ultra-processed products, notably those marketed toward children. Given its interactions with key contributors to colorectal carcinogenesis such as inflammatory mediators, the microbiome, and DNA damage, there is growing interest in understanding Allura Red AC's potential impact on colon health as a putative carcinogen. This review discusses the history of Allura Red AC, current research on its effects on the colon and rectum, potential mechanisms underlying its impact on colon health, and provides future considerations. Indeed, although no governing agencies classify Allura Red AC as a carcinogen, its interaction with key guardians of carcinogenesis makes it suspect and worthy of further molecular investigation. The goal of this review is to inspire research into the impact of synthetic food dyes on colon health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To understand the perspectives of key informant experts regarding the relationship between food insecurity and gestational diabetes mellitus risk reduction behaviors among young American Indian and Alaska Native females. Participants were adult key informants with expertise in food/nutrition and health within Tribal communities (N = 58) across the US. Data were collected through 1:1 interviews using a semistructured moderator guide and analyzed using thematic content analysis methods. Three themes included (1) diet and nutrition habits are formed through intergenerational food preferences and are driven by lasting implications of colonization; (2) young people are influenced by what their peers eat and the food environment, including outside of the home; and (3) the methods used to understand household food insecurity and nutrition habits in the parent study were likely limited. Findings provide guidance as to where nutrition education and interventions may best support young Native females. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to explore positive and negative emotional experiences during the performance of daily occupations in Persons with Parkinson Disease (PwPD). This cross-sectional study included 32 PwPD and 14 healthy older adults. Participants completed three questionnaires that measured emotional experiences during daily occupations, subjective cognitive complaints, and quality of life. PwPD experienced higher rates of negative affect during all occupations. Lower rates of positive affect were found only during personal care tasks. Additionally, experiences of daily negative affect were positively associated with subjective cognitive complaints and negatively associated with quality of life. Different rates of positive and negative affect are experienced by PwPD during daily occupations. The experience of daily emotions has implications for understanding emotional processing in neurological populations. Occupational therapy practitioners should consider the role of emotions when providing occupation-based interventions for PwPD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Achondroplasia is the most common skeletal dysplasia and is associated with serious complications such as foramen magnum stenosis (FMS). This case report describes an infant with achondroplasia who presented with a syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH), secondary to significant FMS and myelocompression. A 2-month-old boy with prenatally diagnosed achondroplasia was referred due to disordered breathing and altered consciousness. On admission, apathy, hypotonus, and hypothermia with typical features of achondroplasia were noticed. Laboratory investigations revealed severe hyponatremia and hypochloridaemia with normal glucose and urea levels. The diagnosis of SIADH was made based on low serum osmolality in the presence of high urine osmolality, along with an elevated copeptin level. An emergency computerized tomography showed a high-grade stenosis at the cranio-cervical junction; subsequent magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated myelocompression. The patient underwent decompression surgery the next day; serum osmolality increased after the operation. Spontaneous breathing after extubation was sufficient whereas tetraplegia persisted despite intensive physiotherapy. Clinicians should be aware of SIADH as a presenting sign of FMS in children with achondroplasia. Further discussion is warranted regarding improving parental education and timing of screening recommendations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine the role of near-infrared fluorescence imaging (NIFI) combined with indocyanine green (ICG) to assess ureteral tissue perfusion in a benign genitourinary reconstruction cohort with a high prevalence of prior abdominopelvic radiation and surgery. A prospective, single-surgeon series, between June 2018 and April 2022, of patients who underwent open genitourinary reconstructive surgeries in which NIFI/ICG was utilized to intraoperatively assess ureteral tissue perfusion prior to ureteral anastomosis. Primary outcome was ureteroanastomotic stricture (UAS). Secondary outcomes included impact of NIFI/ICG on surgical decision-making and ureter resection length. Thirty nine patients, median age 66, underwent 40 multimodality reconstructive surgeries during which NIFI/ICG was utilized in the open setting. Radiation-induced etiology was present in 32 of 40 (80%) patients. UAS occurred in 1 of 57 (1.8%) anastomoses with median follow-up of 23.4 months. Use of NIFI/ICG changed intraoperative decision-making in 63% of cases. Change in intraoperative decision-making was more common in patients with prior abdominopelvic radiation (66%) compared to non-radiated patients (13%), P =.007. Discordance between subjective (white-light) and objective (NIFI/ICG) ureteral perfusion (white-light) occurred in 61% of ureters. Mean length of resected ureter was higher following objective assessment with NIFI/ICG (3.6 cm) versus subjective assessment (white light) conditions (1.8 cm), P =.001. Use of NIFI/ICG was associated with low rates of UAS at 2-year follow-up in a cohort with high prevalence of prior radiation. NIFI/ICG was associated with longer lengths of ureter resection and ureteral perfusion assessment discordance compared to subjective surgeon assessment under white-light conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractLimited research on sexual minority women migrants demonstrate that they face elevated rates of mental health problems compared to their heterosexual and male counterparts, and less is known about their healthcare seeking behaviours. This study aimed to identify barriers and facilitators to mental and physical healthcare utilisation among first-generation (foreign-born) Arab sexual minority women migrants in the USA and to assess whether Penchansky and Thomas’ theory of access can be used to understand their healthcare utilisation behaviours. We conducted 20 semi-structured interviews via Zoom. Employing community-engaged research methods, four advisors, Arab sexual minority women migrants and a mental health service provider, assisted in recruitment and thematic data analysis providing a rich and nuanced understanding of study findings. Five main themes demonstrated the pivotal role of cultural humility from providers and access to medical insurance in shaping healthcare-seeking decisions. Difficulties finding therapists and navigating the referral process and wait times encouraged participants to seek care outside of the USA in their Arab countries of origin. Stigma and social support further influenced participants’ decisions to seek mental healthcare. The study findings inform policy and practice to foster the development of inclusive healthcare services grounded in cultural humility and to develop support groups specifically for Arab sexual minority women migrants to the USA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) is one of the cornerstones of modern information technologies. Bringing MTJ's operation beyond the conventional binary regime, enabled by tunneling magnetoresistance (TMR) effect, is highly promising for prospective memory technologies and neuromorphic hardware development. In this paper, we demonstrate multilevel magnetoresistance states in an all-perovskite-oxide La0.7Sr0.3MnO3 (LSMO)/BaTiO3/LSMO heterostructure grown on MgO substrates. Unlike traditional TMR, we observe four distinct regions of increased magnetoresistance, which result in three magnetic field-induced resistance states in total. We show that the observed phenomenon arises from the low-field magnetoresistance effect, which occurs in the two epitaxial LSMO layers, independently and at different values of the magnetic field. The effect is well simulated by a model based on the presence of structural defects and non-uniform deformations in the LSMO layers, induced by the large lattice mismatch of the LSMO with the MgO substrate. We believe that our findings contribute to the understanding of complex magnetoresistance effects in MTJs and can be taken into consideration for the design of multi-bit memory cells or neuromorphic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dengue fever (DF) is a viral disease transmitted by the Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus) mosquito, which has the fastest spreading cases. Drug and vaccines are still unavailable, so the government is focusing on mosquito control. One method of biological control is to use betta fish (Betta splendens) as predators of Ae. aegypti larvae. Betta fish have various varieties, which may have different abilities in preying on Ae. aegypti larvae. The study aimed to analyze the potential for controlling Ae. aegypti larvae using three varieties of B. splendens fish (multi-colored plakat koi, xanthic morph plakat, and halfmoon varieties) during the day and evening. The test was carried out by inserting 25 Ae. aegypti larvaes into an aquarium containing B. splendens fish. Testing starts at 12.00 and 15.00 WIB and replicated five times. Observations started from the fish started preying on larvae until the fish ate all larvae. The predation ability of each variety of B. splendens fish based on predation time was analyzed using the one-way ANOVA test and the unpaired data t-test. The analysis showed that the multi-colored koi plakat variety preyed Ae. aegypti larvae faster than the xanthic morph plaque variety (P < 0.05) and not significantly different from the halfmoon variety (P > 0.05). There was no difference in the ability of B. splendens fish to prey larvae during the day and evening (P > 0.05). B. splendens fish, the multi-colored koi plaque variety, and the halfmoon variety can be biological predators of Ae. aegypti larvae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To address high rates of malnutrition among children from vulnerable households in Rwanda, the government initiated a national food supplementation programme. A before and after evaluation, using repeat cross‐sectional surveys in randomly selected villages was conducted; aimed at assessing the effectiveness of providing fortified blended food (FBF) to children 18–23 months of age, pregnant and lactating women in the lowest tier of Rwanda's social support system. Data were collected in 2017, 2018 and 2021 through interviews with caregivers; anthropometric measurements and a capillary blood sample were obtained from children. The primary statistical analysis compared the nutritional status of children before and after the introduction of FBF. We enroled 724 children during each survey. The prevalence of stunting declined from 47% to 35% between 2017 and 2021; in 2018, the prevalence of stunting was 43%. Children had a 42% reduction in the odds of being stunted (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 0.58, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.47–0.74, p < 0.001) from 2017 to 2021 even after adjusting for inherent, distal, proximal, and intermediate covariates. The reduction in stunting observed within the first year of the programme was not statistically significant (AOR: 0.83, 95% CI: 0.67–1.03, p < 0.091). We observed meaningful reductions in the prevalence of stunting among children which coincided with the introduction of Government‐led initiative to reduce malnutrition. The Rwandan Government has committed to improving the living conditions of vulnerable households and has made strong investments in reducing malnutrition. The impact of these investments can be seen in the overall trend towards improved nutritional status highlighted in this evaluation. Key messages: The national distribution of fortified blended food (FBF) to pregnant and lactating women and 6‐ to 23‐month‐old children living in the most vulnerable households was associated with a meaningful reduction in stunted linear growth, iron deficiency and anaemia among young children after 5 years.This study indicates that stunted linear growth, in early childhood, can be reduced over 5 years when the government is committed to and invests in improving the living conditions of vulnerable households, including the national food supplementation programme.It was attainable to distribute FBF to vulnerable pregnant and lactating women and 6‐ to 23‐month‐old children, in a national programme, over the 5‐year evaluation period, including during the COVID‐19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated undergraduate nursing students' perceptions of integrating virtual reality (VR) technology into a community nursing course, specifically home and environmental patient safety assessments. This study used a mixed-methods approach with an explanatory design. Participants were recruited from a community health course. The students engaged in a VR simulation involving home visits using the vizHome platform. Quantitative and qualitative data were gathered using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the System Usability Scale (SUS). Semi-structured interviews were conducted. Quantitative data were collected through Qualtrics and secure Zoom connections for the interviews. The data were analyzed with SPSS and MAXQDA. The results indicated that participants perceived VR as valuable and easy to use for learning home assessment skills. The System Usability Scale (SUS) score revealed room for improvement. Technical limitations were identified as challenges that must be addressed to enhance the user experience. Participants acknowledged VR's potential to supplement traditional learning methods, providing safe and realistic exposure to diverse home environments. While VR was seen as beneficial, it was not considered a replacement for actual home visits in community nursing education. This study provided clinical teaching evidence on the usability and student perceptions of VR in community courses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We introduce and investigate some examples of C ∗ -algebras which are related to multiplication maps in the ring of p-adic integers. We find ideals within these algebras and use the corresponding short exact sequences to compute the K-theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interlibrary Loan (ILL) service allows users to borrow materials from other libraries, whether physical or electronic. We sought to explore the usage and preferences of ILL service among users of a county-wide public library system in Tennessee. The survey consisted of questions pertaining to the frequency of ILL usage, the types of materials requested, and overall satisfaction with the service. Our findings show which aspects of ILL users find beneficial, as well as any shortcomings that could be addressed. Overall, those who utilized ILL service found it very valuable, would recommend it to others and expressed satisfaction with their experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe present study examined the frequency with which individuals with anxiety experienced positive and negative emotions during the completion of daily occupations. Participants were 89 individuals with a self-reported diagnosis of anxiety who completed the Emotional Experiences in Activities of Daily Living Scale (EEADLs) and State-Trait Inventory for Cognitive and Somatic Anxiety (STICSA). Individuals with high anxiety demonstrated more negative emotions but no differences in positive emotions during completion of personal care and household tasks with high physical and cognitive demands. Assessing emotions experienced during occupations can help inform recommendations to improve occupational balance and engagement in individuals with anxiety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the Infant and Family Centered Developmental Care (IFCDC) standards, which guide professionals in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) to prioritize the well-being of babies and families through evidence-based practices. Topics include the integration of National Association of Social Workers (NASW) standards into NICU social work, emphasizing an integrative approach that enhances care quality and specificity for this vulnerable population.

This article uses the surviving records of the Hanslope disclosure to track the British government's efforts to censor colonial archives in the era of decolonization. As staff withdrew from colonies around the world, they were instructed to either destroy or 'migrate' to Britain large quantities of records that held sensitive, embarrassing, or potentially incriminating details about the history of British colonial administration. Some 25,000 files were eventually shipped to the UK in a program called 'Operation Legacy' where they fell into legal limbo and out of institutional memory. Millions more were burned or ditched at sea. This article pursues these archival policies as they gradually evolved from Malaya to East Africa, the Caribbean, and into the post-colonial era. In giving special attention to Operation Legacy's broader temporal and geographic sweep, this article meditates on two key points. First, while colonial officials actively learned from their colleagues in other colonies, they were forced to adapt Operation Legacy to local circumstances. The uneven application of this policy reflected the late British Empire's status as a patchwork of sovereignties in which people were governed differently. Second, while evidence is limited, officials across disparate colonial administrations were bound together by a common impulse. They sought not only to destroy and 'migrate' records but also to doctor files that could then be transferred to newly independent governments. In the end, the goal was to mask the disconnect in the archives between rhetoric and reality—of the alleged aspirations of Britain's 'civilizing mission' and its history of colonial violence, systemic racism, and other inconvenient truths. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThis review set out to provide empirical literature on mindfulness-based strengths practice (MBSP), a new approach in positive psychology that integrates mindfulness with character strengths, two positive predictors of well-being. First, the conceptualization of integrating character strengths and mindfulness into MBSP is discussed. The literature on the interrelatedness of character strengths and mindfulness is then described, along with ways that the intervention of MBSP encourages positive outcomes at various levels. The literature search returned 7 (10 samples, N = 3,851) studies supporting a positive association between character strengths and mindfulness (r = 0.3–0.4) and the mediating role of character strengths/virtues in mindfulness and mindfulness’s role in enhancing character strengths toward psychological well-being. The nine MBSP intervention studies (9 samples, N = 354) conducted in diverse contexts provide evidence of a significant improvement in well-being, engagement, life satisfaction, mindfulness, positive affect, character strengths, work-related outcomes, heightened birthing parents’ well-being during pregnancy and childbirth, increased academic performance, and enhanced mental health among students. The intervention studies also reported the fostering of mindful positive parenting and contributions to a significant reduction in negative psychological states, such as stress, depression, anxiety, and negative affect. This comprehensive review provides empirical support for the MBSP framework and its positive impact on well-being across various domains, including organizations, education, healthcare, and family. However, it underscores the need for more extensive research, as the current literature on MBSP is limited. The review encourages future studies to explore MBSP applications in diverse domains, thereby paving the way for a deeper understanding of its potential benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bloodstream infection is a major public health concern associated with high mortality and high healthcare costs worldwide. Bacteremia can trigger fatal sepsis whose prevention, diagnosis, and management have been recognized as a global health priority by the World Health Organization. Additionally, infection control is increasingly threatened by antimicrobial resistance, which is the focus of global action plans in the framework of a One Health response. In-depth knowledge of the infection process is needed to develop efficient preventive and therapeutic measures. The pathogenesis of bloodstream infection is a dynamic process resulting from the invasion of the vascular system by bacteria, which finely regulate their metabolic pathways and virulence factors to overcome the blood immune defenses and proliferate. In this review, we highlight our current understanding of determinants of bacterial survival and proliferation in the bloodstream and discuss their interactions with the molecular and cellular components of blood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of surface roughness and polishing orientation on fatigue life is investigated. Fully reversed bending fatigue tests are conducted on ASTM A1008 specimens having surface roughness asperities ranging from mirror finish (Ra = 0.05 μm) to coarse (Ra = 1.5 μm). Two polishing directions (i.e., orientations) are examined. For the range of roughness values tested, the results suggest that polishing orientation has a strong influence on fatigue life. Specifically, within the range of surface roughness values tested, fatigue life was found to be relatively insensitive to surface roughness asperities when the roughness orientation was parallel to the direction of surface stress but sensitive to surface roughness asperities when the orientation crossed the direction of surface stress. Results are generalized using the concept of fracture fatigue entropy (FFE). It is shown that, unlike fatigue life, FFE is independent of polishing orientation, a noteworthy result. To explain the behavior of FFE in relation to surface roughness asperities, a fatigue thermodynamics theory is presented that hypothesizes that all specimens of the same material fail at equivalent entropy levels. Highlights: The influence of surface roughness on fatigue life is investigated.Extensive fully reversed bending fatigue tests are performed.Surface roughness lay has a pronounced influence on fatigue life.Fracture fatigue entropy (FFE) is sensitive to the roughness regardless of its lay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Bible's assertion that the Genesis patriarchs routinely experienced lifespans of hundreds of years is one of the claims in Scripture most ridiculed by skeptics. Hence, Biblical creationists should be interested in possible scientific corroboration of this claim. Whatever factor or factors were allowing extreme human longevity in the pre- and immediate post-Flood worlds were likely also affecting the animal kingdom, as well. Hence, it is reasonable to suspect that animal lifespans were also once much greater than they are today. In this light, we examine fossil shark data for possible evidence of extreme longevity. Paleontologists have used allometric relationships and growth rings within shark vertebrae to construct ontogenetic length-versus-age growth curves for both extinct and extant sharks. Growth curves for fossil sharks are generally too short to provide direct evidence that fossil sharks experienced much greater longevity than extant sharks, but they are sufficiently long to show that fossil sharks took longer to mature than comparable extant sharks. Longevity studies of extant animals have repeatedly shown that greater ages at skeletal and/or sexual maturity are positively correlated with greater longevity, as are larger adult body sizes. Hence, the apparent delayed maturation and large adult body sizes of these giant fossil sharks is indirect evidence that they had much greater lifespans than extant sharks. By extension, it is partial scientific corroboration of the extreme human lifespans recorded in the earliest chapters of Genesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: One enforcement strategy used to address illegal sales of alcohol to intoxicated patrons (i.e., overservice) is Place of Last Drink (POLD). When law enforcement responds to an alcohol-related incident, they ask persons involved in the incident where they had their last drink; POLD data can then be used to track patterns of overservice. Methods: We evaluated potential effects of a POLD initiative in one state (USA) on the attitudes and perceptions of serving staff (i.e., bartenders and servers) about their experiences in refusing sales to intoxicated customers. We conducted interviews with 44 serving staff across 24 communities (14 communities that participated in the POLD initiative and 10 comparison communities). We analyzed the interview transcripts using a qualitative matrix to identify major themes. Results: We found few differences across the two study conditions, with interview participants having no apparent awareness of POLD and many stating that overservice occurs frequently without law enforcement getting involved. One difference we identified was serving staff from communities in the POLD initiative reporting generally positive experiences with their managers when refusing sales to intoxicated patrons, whereas serving staff in comparison communities more commonly saying they were overruled by their managers. It is possible that these differences are the result of the POLD initiative; however, more research is needed. Conclusions: In general, serving staff across communities share many similar perceptions and attitudes around overservice. These findings can inform future implementation of POLD and other strategies to reduce overservice of alcohol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) exhibit unusual immune responses relative to endothermic organisms. For example, most of the highest-expressed liver genes in uninfected mice are related to metabolism. In contrast, the most abundantly expressed hepatic genes expressed in alligators are immune system-oriented. The constraints of endothermy demand a high expression of metabolic genes to maintain temperature and elevated metabolism to support endothermy, while ectothermic alligators reallocate those resources to maintain a highly primed immune system. Injection of alligators with 200× the LD50 of bacterial lipopolysaccharide in mice resulted in no observable biological effects that are observed in endotherms. In addition, treatment with live bacteria caused a decrease in metabolic rate, which again, is the opposite of that exhibited by endotherms. The decrease in oxygen consumption was not accompanied by changes in heart rate or respiration, and thus could not be attributed to bradycardia or bradypnea. Injection of alligators with bacteria caused a complete elimination of digestive tract contents within a few hours. We interpret these activities as temporary minimization of other biological systemic activities to redirect and devote energy to immune function. The reallocation of resources within an organism to fight infection without increases in metabolic rate has not been described in other animals. Uninfected alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) exhibited high constitutive levels of hepatic gene expression related to immune function, whereas the highest-expressed hepatic genes of uninfected mice were related to metabolism. Intraperitoneal challenge of mice with bacterial lipopolysaccharide results in dramatic inflammatory effects including peritoneal ascites, febrile response, dramatic alterations in electrophoretic serum profile, and mortality. In contrast, coelomic injection of alligators with 200× the murine LD50 of intraperitoneal bacterial lipopolysaccharide resulted in no changes in serum protein profiles, behavioral effects, mortality, and no coelomic ascites. However, injection of juvenile alligators with live bacteria resulted in a titer-dependent decrease in metabolic rate, as measured by oxygen consumption. These results are the opposite of those observed for mammalian and avian species. The decreased oxygen consumption was not accompanied by changes in heart or respiration rate, indicating that this phenomenon was not due to bradycardia or bradypnea. Interestingly, challenge of alligators with bacteria resulted in the complete expulsion of digestive tract contents within four hours. We interpret these activities as temporary minimization of other biological systemic activities to redirect and devote energy to immune function. The reallocation of resources within an organism to fight infection without increases in metabolic rate has not been described in other animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this meta-analysis was to assess the overall effects of automaticity training of fundamental literacy component skills (i.e., letter names/sounds, individual words) on reading fluency and comprehension. Another purpose was to assess if the effects of automaticity training varied for reading fluency and comprehension. We identified 11 research studies involving students in Grades 1–6 that met the inclusion criteria for this meta-analysis. A total of 83 effect sizes (Hedges g, corrected for sample size bias) were extracted from these studies. These studies were double-coded for specific features (e.g., student age, student grade, type of automaticity training). We meta-analyzed the effect sizes using a multi-level meta-analytic model and examined whether the outcome measure type (comprehension or fluency) moderated the effects of automaticity training. We also analyzed for publication bias. The overall effect size for automaticity training of fundamental literacy component skills on reading fluency and comprehension was 0.28, although it was not statistically significant. Shifting units of analysis approach indicated there was a statistically significant effect found for reading fluency outcomes [g = 0.48 (CI =.23,.72)] but not for reading comprehension (ES = 0.17 ns). Limitations and recommendations for future research are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the association of low-grade radiation injury (LGRI) and high-grade radiation injury (HGRI) following prostate cancer treatment with mental health diagnoses and therapy. A retrospective study of men diagnosed with prostate cancer who were treated with radiotherapy. Men were followed to assess for LGRI or HGRI using IBM MarketScan. Cohorts included: no injury (no-RI), LGRI, HGRI, and controls. Mental health diagnoses and related treatment (medication/therapy) were identified using ICD-10 codes, CPT codes, and national drug codes. A multivariable Cox proportional hazards model from time of radiation to first instance of mental health diagnosis was modeled against injury group, age, and comorbidities. Between 2011 and 2020 we identified 55,425 men who received radiotherapy for prostate cancer. 22,879 (41.3%) experienced a LGRI while 4128 (7.4%) experienced a HGRI. Prior to radiation therapy, mental health diagnoses were equally distributed across cohorts (P >.05). Every marker of mental health showed a step-wise increase in incidence from no-RI to LGRI to HGRI except for alcohol abuse. Use of mental health medications and therapy visits were slightly more likely in the LGRI and HGRI groups prior to radiation, however, this difference was greatly increased postradiation therapy. LGRI (HR 1.38; P <.001) and HGRI (HR 2.1; P <.001) were independently associated with an increased likelihood of mental health diagnoses. LGRI and HGRI following prostate cancer radiotherapy are associated with increased risk of mental health diagnosis, medication use, and therapy need compared to men who do not develop injuries. The most common mental health diagnoses were depression and anxiety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents evidence that fossil Crassostrea oysters experienced much greater longevity than their modern-day descendants. For extant animals, multiple studies have revealed a positive correlation between longevity and adult body size: the larger the organism's size as an adult, the longer its lifespan. Studies have also demonstrated that organisms that take longer to reach skeletal and/or sexual maturity also tend to have longer lifespans. Fossil Crassostrea oysters are generally larger than their modern-day counterparts, and ontogenetic growth curves suggest longer lifespans and generally longer growth intervals. This evidence should be of great interest to Biblical creationists in light of the Bible's claim that humans in the pre-Flood and immediate post-Flood worlds experienced much greater longevities than modern-day humans. Animals may also have once experienced greater past longevity, since whatever genetic or environmental factors were enabling extreme human longevity were likely also operating across the animal kingdom. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the incidence and associated risk factors of venous thromboembolism (VTE) after gender affirming vaginoplasty. We searched International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) Marketscan, a commercial claims database, for Current Procedural Terminology and International Classification of Diseases (ICD) procedure codes to identify patients who underwent gender affirming vaginoplasty from 2011-2020. We quantified deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism using ICD-9 and ICD-10 codes found within 90 days after surgery. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to establish association between VTE events and age, residency location, and comorbidities. We identified 1588 patients who underwent gender affirming vaginoplasty. Overall, 1.1% of patients experienced a VTE within 90 days following surgery. Patients who experienced postoperative VTE were older, more likely to have had a prior VTE, less likely to be from an urban area, and more likely to have a higher Charlson Comorbidity Index score. Among patients with postoperative VTE, 47.1% had previous VTE. Among patients without a postoperative VTE, 1.3% had previous VTE. In patients undergoing gender affirming vaginoplasty, the incidence of postoperative VTE was 1.1%. Older age, rurality, increased comorbidities, and prior VTE were associated with increased risk of postoperative VTE. Current guidelines do not recommend cessation of gender affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) prior to vaginoplasty. Further research is needed to evaluate if certain high-risk patients would benefit from perioperative adjustment of GAHT or perioperative VTE prophylaxis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among same-age adolescents, those who enter puberty relatively later and those who are relatively younger (e.g., born later in the year) might be at greater risk of physical activity discontinuation. This study aimed to (1) describe gender-specific discontinuation, re-engagement, and uptake rates in various types of physical activities from the age of 11 to 17 years, and (2) assess puberty timing and relative age as predictors of discontinuation from organized, unorganized, individual, and group-based physical activities. Longitudinal data from 781 (56% girls, age 10–13 years at study baseline) Canadian participants who self-reported puberty status, birthdate, and involvement in 36 physical activities every four months from 2011 to 2018 was analyzed. The incidence of discontinuation, re-engagement, and uptake in organized/unorganized and individual/group activities from grade 6 until grade 12 was described and Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate associations of puberty timing and relative age with organized/unorganized and individual/group activity discontinuation. Results demonstrate that individual and unorganized activities are maintained longer than group-based and organized activities. Girls who started puberty earlier were more likely to discontinue organized activities than girls with average-puberty timing [Hazard ratio (HR) (95% confidence interval (CI)) 1.68 (1.05–2.69)]. Compared to boys born in the 4th quarter of the year, boys born in the 2nd quarter of the year were less likely to discontinue organized [HR (95% CI) 0.41 (0.23–0.74)], unorganized [HR (95% CI) 0.33 (0.16–0.70)], group [HR (95% CI) 0.58 (0.34–0.98)], and individual activities[HR (95% CI) 0.46 (0.23–0.91)], and boys born in the 3rd quarter were less likely to discontinue unorganized activities[HR (95% CI) 0.41 (0.19–0.88)]. This study illustrates the patterns of physical activity participation throughout adolescence. However, the generalizability of findings may be limited due to participant representation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Rhabdomyolysis-induced acute kidney injury (RIAKI) can interrupt physical training and increase mortality in injured warfighters. The legal performance-enhancing drugs caffeine and ibuprofen, which can cause renal injury, are widely used by service members. Whether caffeine or ibuprofen affects RIAKI is unknown. Cilastatin treatment was recently identified as an experimental treatment to prevent RIAKI at injury. To determine potential interacting factors in RIAKI treatment, we test the hypothesis that caffeine and ibuprofen worsen RIAKI and interfere with treatment. Materials and Methods In mice, RIAKI was induced by glycerol intramuscular injection. Simultaneously, mice received caffeine (3 mg/kg), ibuprofen (10 mg/kg), or vehicle. A second cohort received volume resuscitation (PlasmaLyte, 20 mL/kg) in addition to caffeine or ibuprofen. In a third cohort, cilastatin (200 mg/kg) was administered concurrently with drug and glycerol administration. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), urine output (UOP), renal pathology, and renal immunofluorescence for kidney injury molecule 1 were quantified after 24 hours. Results Caffeine did not worsen RIAKI; although BUN was modestly increased by caffeine administration, 24-hour GFR, UOP, and renal histopathology were similar between vehicle-treated, caffeine-treated, and caffeine + PlasmaLyte–treated mice. Ibuprofen administration greatly worsened RIAKI (GFR 14.3 ± 19.5 vs. 577.4 ± 454.6 µL/min/100 g in control, UOP 0.5 ± 0.4 in ibuprofen-treated mice vs. 2.7 ± 1.7 mL/24 h in control, and BUN 264 ± 201 in ibuprofen-treated mice vs. 66 ± 21 mg/dL in control, P  < .05 for all); PlasmaLyte treatment did not reverse this effect. Cilastatin with or without PlasmaLyte did not reverse the deleterious effect of ibuprofen in RIAKI. Conclusions Caffeine does not worsen RIAKI. The widely used performance-enhancing drug ibuprofen greatly worsens RIAKI in mice. Standard or experimental treatment of RIAKI including the addition of cilastatin to standard resuscitation is ineffective in mice with RIAKI exacerbated by ibuprofen. These findings may have clinical implications for the current therapy of RIAKI and for translational studies of novel treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Octa-acid 1 is a water-soluble cavitand that has been used to investigate hydrophobic solvation and Hofmeister effects, control photophysical and physicochemical properties, modulate the reactivity of encapsulated guests, and as a tool to engender novel separation protocols. The synthesis of 1 has largely centered around its formation from 2, a host that is itself most readily synthesized on the multi-gram-scale in crude form (>75% purity). In this Methods Article we reveal improvements in the synthesis of 2, as well as a new synthetic strategy that efficiently converts crude 2 into pure 1. This provides access to 1 in only a five-step linear sequence, shortening the total reaction time from previous methods, improving the purity, and increasing the final yield of 1. We therefore anticipate that the described protocols will be of interest to researchers seeking to utilize octa-acid in their studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: This subgroup analysis of the ALLEGRO phase 2b/3 trial (NCT03732807) evaluated the efficacy and safety of ritlecitinib, an oral, selective dual JAK3/TEC family kinase inhibitor, for the treatment of alopecia areata (AA) in patients aged 12–17 years. Methods: In ALLEGRO‐2b/3, patients aged ≥12 years with AA and ≥50% scalp hair loss received once‐daily ritlecitinib 50 or 30 mg (±4‐week 200‐mg loading dose) or 10 mg or placebo for 24 weeks. In a subsequent 24‐week extension period, ritlecitinib groups continued their doses, and patients initially assigned to placebo switched to 200/50 or 50 mg daily. Clinician‐ and patient‐reported hair regrowth outcomes and safety were assessed. Results: In total, 105 adolescents were randomized. At Week 24, 17%–28% of adolescents achieved a Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) score ≤20 (≤20% scalp without hair) in the ritlecitinib 30 mg and higher treatment groups versus 0% for placebo. At Week 48, 25%–50% of patients had a SALT score ≤20 across ritlecitinib treatment groups (30 mg and higher). Adolescents reporting that their AA "moderately" or "greatly" improved were 45%–61% in the ritlecitinib groups (30 mg and higher) (vs. 10%–22% for placebo) at Week 24 and 44%–80% at Week 48. The most common adverse events in adolescents were headache, acne, and nasopharyngitis. No deaths, major adverse cardiovascular events, malignancies, pulmonary embolisms, opportunistic infections, or herpes zoster infections were reported. Conclusion: Ritlecitinib treatment demonstrated clinician‐reported efficacy, patient‐reported improvement, and an acceptable safety profile through Week 48 in adolescents with AA with ≥50% scalp hair loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The thermal diffusivity of powder bed plays a crucial role in laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) additive manufacturing. The mechanical properties of the parts built by LPBF are immensely influenced by the thermal properties of the powder bed. This study aims to measure the thermal diffusivity of metallic powder, nickel-based super alloy Inconel718 (IN718), in LPBF using laser flash three-layered analysis in a DLF1600 instrument, which incorporates a special powder cell to encapsulate the powdered sample. Measurements were performed at different temperatures. The thermal diffusivity of several reference samples was measured for the purpose of validating the test results, and it was compared to published data for identical measures. It was observed that experimental results for powder samples were smaller than the actual thermal diffusivity of the sample. R software analysis was used to analyze test data in order to obtain powder thermal diffusivity values that were close to the actual values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The short- and long-term impacts of nanoparticles (NPs) in consumer products are not fully understood. Current European Union (EU) regulations enforce transparency on products containing NPs in cosmetic formulations; however, those set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration are lacking. This study demonstrates the potential of single-particle inductively coupled plasma tandem mass spectrometry (spICP-MS/MS) as a screening method for NPs present in powder-based facial cosmetics (herein referred to as FCs). A proposed spICP-MS/MS method is presented along with recommended criteria to confirm particle presence and particle detection thresholds in seven FCs. FC products of varying colors, market values, and applications were analyzed for the presence of Bi, Cr, Mg, Mn, Pb, Sn, Ag, Al, and Zn NPs based on their ingredient lists as well as those commonly used in cosmetic formulations. The presence of NPs smaller than 100 nm was observed in all FC samples, and no correlations with their presence and market value were observed. Here, we report qualitative and semi-quantitative results for seven FC samples ranging in color, brand, and shimmer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the healthcare resource impact of radiation injury following prostate cancer treatment. Using IBM MarketScan, we performed a retrospective study of men with prostate cancer who were treated with radiotherapy and subsequently developed low-grade (LGRI) and high-grade radiation injury (HGRI). Radiation injury diagnoses included bladder neck stenosis, hematuria/cystitis, fistula, ureteral stricture, and incontinence. LGRI and HGRI included injury diagnosis without intervention and with intervention, respectively. Health care visits and costs were measured over 5 time periods including 2 years before radiation, 1 year before radiation, radiation to injury diagnosis, injury diagnosis to first intervention (LGRI), and following first intervention (HGRI). Negative binomial regression modeling was used to assess the effect of radiation injury on average cost adjusting for demographics and comorbidities. Between 2008 and 2017, we identified 121,027 men who received radiotherapy following prostate cancer diagnosis of which 10,057 (8.3%) experienced a HGRI. The frequency of urologic visits and average costs were similar in those without injury and LGRI. However, men with HGRI experienced higher visit frequency and monthly costs. Amongst high-grade injuries, urinary fistula had the highest frequency of visit utilization at 378 visits before first intervention and 245 visits after first intervention. Following radiation injury diagnosis, the average monthly cost was twice as high in those with HGRI ($85.78) compared to LGRI ($38.66). HGRI was associated with increased urologic health care use and average monthly cost when compared to those who experienced LGRI or no injury. Urinary fistula was associated with the largest resource burden. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A gap exists between scientific discovery and implementation and adoption of research findings in healthcare and public health practice. This gap is due to the fact that research on treatment efficacy and safety in clinical trials ends prematurely with the publication of results, leaving a lack of knowledge of treatment effectiveness in real-world clinical and community settings. Comparative effectiveness research (CER) can facilitate the translation of research findings, reducing the gap between discovery and adoption into practice. Getting CER findings to patients and healthcare providers requires efforts to disseminate and train providers to successfully implement and sustain change in the healthcare setting. Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) are instrumental in the implementation of evidence-based research in primary care settings and an important group to target for the dissemination of research findings. There are numerous implementation training programs, but none focus specifically on APRNs. Objective: The objective of this article is to describe the infrastructure established to develop a 3-day implementation training program for APRNs and an implementation support system. Method: A description of the processes and strategies is provided, including stakeholder engagement through focus groups and the formation of a multistakeholder program planning advisory team, which includes APRNs, organization leaders, and patients. The program also includes curriculum development and program planning as well as the development of an implementation toolkit. Results: Stakeholders were instrumental in shaping the implementation training program, including the content of the curriculum and the program agenda. In addition, the unique perspective of each stakeholder group contributed to the selection of the CER findings disseminated through the intensive training program. Conclusion: It is important that strategies to address the lack of implementation training opportunities for APRNs be discussed and disseminated within the healthcare community. This article discusses the plan to address implementation training for APRNs through the development of an implementation curriculum and toolkit for APRNs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Universal screening and counseling are recommended for alcohol use during pregnancy, but no prior study has examined differences in prenatal counseling by race or ethnicity. We used Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) data to assess differences in provision of counseling on prenatal alcohol use between American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) and non-Hispanic White (NHW) women during prenatal care. We analyzed data from 2014–2015 from the four PRAMS states with the highest number of births to AI/AN women: Alaska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Washington. We estimated the prevalence of prenatal alcohol use, associated risk factors, and prenatal alcohol prevention counseling for AI/AN (n = 1,805) and NHW (n = 5,641) women. We then conducted multivariable logistic regression modeling stratified by race to estimate factors associated with receipt of prenatal alcohol prevention counseling. All analyses were weighted and accounted for the complex sampling design of PRAMS. Results showed that AI/AN women were counseled on prenatal alcohol use more often than NHW women (77% vs. 67%, p <.05), although the likelihood of any prenatal alcohol use was the same in both groups. The likelihood of prenatal drinking increased with age, education, and income in both groups. Higher education levels were significantly associated with lower risk of prenatal alcohol counseling receipt among AI/AN women. Compared with those with less than a high school diploma, AI/AN women with a college degree or more had 39% reduced risk of receiving counseling (adjusted risk ratio [aRR] = 0.61; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.45–0.83). Among NHW women, living at 100% to 199% of the Federal Poverty Level was associated with lower risk (aRR = 0.88; 95% CI: 0.79–0.98) of counseling receipt compared with women living below the federal poverty line. Higher parity was significantly associated with lower risk of counseling for both groups of women. Although race was not associated with prenatal alcohol use, AI/AN women were more likely than NHW women to be counseled about prenatal alcohol exposure. Factors associated with counseling receipt differed between the two groups. These findings suggest that receipt of counseling is associated with sociodemographic characteristics, and that counseling is not universally provided. More efforts to provide universal counseling are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]