Symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in next of kin during suspension of ICU visits during the COVID-19 pandemic: a prospective observational study.

Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, suspension of visits by next of kin to patients in intensive care units (ICU), to prevent spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has been a common practice. This could impede established family-centered care and may affect the mental health of the next of kin. The aim of this study was to explore symptoms of post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD) in the next of kin of ICU patients.

Rapid carbon nanotubes suspension in organic solvents using organosilicon polymers.

A strategy for a simple dispersion of commercial multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) using two organosilicones, polycarbosilane SMP10 and polysilazane Ceraset PSZ20, in organic solvents such as cyclohexane, tetrahydrofuran (THF), m-xylene and chloroform is presented. In just a few minutes the combined action of sonication and the presence of Pt(0) catalyst is sufficient to obtain a homogeneous suspension, thanks to the rapid hydrosilylation reaction between SiH groups of the polymer and the CNT sidewall. The as-produced suspensions have a particle size distribution <1μm and remain unchanged after several months.

Harnessing the damping properties of materials for high-speed atomic force microscopy.

The success of high-speed atomic force microscopy in imaging molecular motors, enzymes and microbes in liquid environments suggests that the technique could be of significant value in a variety of areas of nanotechnology. However, the majority of atomic force microscopy experiments are performed in air, and the tapping-mode detection speed of current high-speed cantilevers is an order of magnitude lower in air than in liquids. Traditional approaches to increasing the imaging rate of atomic force microscopy have involved reducing the size of the cantilever, but further reductions in size will require a fundamental change in the detection method of the microscope.

Cytotoxicity evaluation of polymer-derived ceramics for pacemaker electrode applications.

Ceramics are known to be chemically stable, and the possibility to electrically dope polymer-derived ceramics makes it a material of interest for implantable electrode applications. We investigated cytotoxic characteristics of four polymer-derived ceramic candidates with either electrically conductive or insulating properties. Cytotoxicity was assessed by culturing C2C12 myoblast cells under two conditions: by exposing them to material extracts and by putting them directly in contact with material samples.

Peer relationships of bereaved siblings and comparison classmates after a child's death from cancer.

Objectives: To compare peer relationships among bereaved siblings and matched classmates, and to examine gender, grade level, and time since death as moderators.

Methods: Families were recruited from cancer registries at four hospitals 3-12 months after a child's death. Measures of social behavior and peer acceptance were completed by children in the classrooms of 105 bereaved siblings (ages 8-17 years).

Posttraumatic stress symptoms in parents of children with cancer within six months of diagnosis.

Objective: To investigate levels and correlates of posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) in mothers and fathers of children and youth with cancer.

Methods: Mothers (n = 191) and fathers (n = 95), representing 195 families of children and youth with cancer, completed measures of PTSS (Impact of Event Scale-Revised), depression (Beck Depression Inventory-II), and anxiety (Beck Anxiety Inventory) between 2 and 22 weeks after their child's cancer diagnosis or recurrence of initial diagnosis.

Results: Substantial subgroups of mothers (41%) and fathers (30%) reported levels of PTSS that exceeded cut-offs for elevated symptoms, and these subgroups of parents were characterized by heightened symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Implementation of DART and DESI ionization on a fieldable mass spectrometer.

A recently developed prototype mobile laboratory mass spectrometer, incorporating an atmospheric pressure ionization (API) interface, is described. This system takes advantage of the small size, lower voltage requirements, and tandem MS abilities of the cylindrical ion trap mass analyzer. The prototype API MS uses small, low-power pumps to fit into a 0.

Development of an automated cylindrical ion trap mass spectrometer for the determination of atmospheric volatile organic compounds.

Volatile organic compounds released from the biosphere are known to have a large impact on atmospheric chemistry. Field instruments for the detection of these trace gases are often limited by the lack of instrument portability and the inability to distinguish compounds of interest from background or other interfering compounds. We have developed an automated sampling and preconcentration system, coupled to a lightweight, low-power cylindrical ion trap mass spectrometer.

[Longitudinal study of the long-term effects of occupational exposure to benzene].

A follow-up study has been conducted of 60 workers occupationally exposed to benzene for a period of 2 months to 19 years. Duration of the study was 18 years. All subjects were traceable.