bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insurance Instability for Patients With Opioid Use Disorder in the Year After Diagnosis
Authors: Christine Paul J. , Goldman Anna L. , Morgan Jake R. , Yan Shapei , Chatterjee Avik , Bettano Amy L. , Binswanger Ingrid A. , LaRochelle Marc R.
Published: July 2024

Importance

Transitions in insurance coverage may be associated with worse health care outcomes. Little is known about insurance stability for individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD).

Objective

To examine insurance transitions among adults with newly diagnosed OUD in the 12 months after diagnosis.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Longitudinal cohort study using data from the Massachusetts Public Health Data Warehouse. The cohort includes adults aged 18 to 63 years diagnosed with incident OUD between July 1, 2014, and December 31, 2014, who were enrolled in commercial insurance or Medicaid at diagnosis; individuals diagnosed after 2014 were excluded from the main analyses due to changes in the reporting of insurance claims. Data were analyzed from November 10, 2022, to May 6, 2024.

Exposure

Insurance type at time of diagnosis (commercial and Medicaid).

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was the cumulative incidence of insurance transitions in the 12 months after diagnosis. Logistic regression models were used to generate estimated probabilities of insurance transitions by insurance type and diagnosis for several characteristics including age, race and ethnicity, and whether an individual started medication for OUD (MOUD) within 30 days after diagnosis.

Results

There were 20 768 individuals with newly diagnosed OUD between July 1, 2014, and December 31, 2014. Most individuals with newly diagnosed OUD were covered by Medicaid (75.4%). Those with newly diagnosed OUD were primarily male (67% in commercial insurance, 61.8% in Medicaid). In the 12 months following OUD diagnosis, 30.4% of individuals experienced an insurance transition, with adjusted models demonstrating higher transition rates among those starting with Medicaid (31.3%; 95% CI, 30.5%-32.0%) compared with commercial insurance (27.9%; 95% CI, 26.6%-29.1%). The probability of insurance transitions was generally higher for younger individuals than older individuals irrespective of insurance type, although there were notable differences by race and ethnicity.

Conclusions and Relevance

This study found that nearly 1 in 3 individuals experience insurance transitions in the 12 months after OUD diagnosis. Insurance transitions may represent an important yet underrecognized factor in OUD treatment outcomes.
Study: Only half of patients with serious injection‐related infections got MOUD
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: July 2024

One year after more than 8,700 patients were hospitalized for a serious injection‐related infection, only half of them had received medication for an opioid use disorder (MOUD), according to a study published in JAMA Network Open last week. Such infections have a high morbidity and mortality rate, and MOUD could prevent them from recurring, as well as treat the root cause of the problem: opioid addiction. The researchers concluded that treatment with MOUD before an infection would be helpful, as would initiating MOUD treatment while a patient is in the hospital being treated for the skin infection.
Study demonstrates gap in services post‐overdose in Medicare cohort
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: July 2024

Medicare beneficiaries who receive medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) and/or assessment or crisis services following a nonfatal drug overdose substantially reduce their odds of a subsequent fatal overdose, but disappointingly, few individuals receive any of this care. A new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that only 4.1% of a cohort of Medicare fee‐for‐service patients received any MOUD in the 12 months following a nonfatal overdose.
More on FoRSE: NAATP treatment outcomes tool
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: July 2024

The Foundation for Recovery Science and Education (FoRSE) is a nonprofit organization created by the National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers (NAATP) to examine the impact of addiction treatment. The most recent FoRSE findings show that long‐term residential treatment is beneficial (see ADAW https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/adaw.34135). This is based on outcome data from more than 80 treatment centers across the country.
The Biden‐Harris drug policy agenda — a major success
Authors: Kent Rob
Published: July 2024

I know that history usually judges policy changes years later, however, I am proud of the significant progress the Biden‐Harris administration achieved in drug policy and proud to have been a part of the team that made it happen. It is my opinion that we made 30 years of progress in one presidential term!
Concurrent use of cannabis and tobacco linked to externalizing disorders in youth
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: July 2024

Researchers have found that concurrent use of tobacco and cannabis was associated with higher levels of externalizing problems compared to use of only one of the substances for youths aged 14 to 17 years, but that there was no association with higher levels of internalizing problems. Externalizing problems include hyperactivity, impulsivity, aggression, and conduct disorders, while internalizing problems are characterized by anxiety abnd depression, and social withdrawal. The study results suggested that there should be integrated treatment for mental health, tobacco, and cannabis use for youth. For the study, the researchers analyzed wave 6 data within the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) Study, with data collected from March to November, 2021. The cohort is US youths aged 14–17 years. The researchers divided past 30 day use of any tobacco and cannabis products into four categories: concurrent, tobacco only, cannabis only, and non‐use. Mental health problems (internalizing and externalizing) were measured by self‐report using the Global Appraisal of Individual Needs–Short Screener and separately categorized into 3 levels: low (0–1 symptoms), moderate (2–3 symptoms), and high (4 or more symptoms). A total of 5,585 youths were included, half male and half female. The prevalence of concurrent use was 3.4%, and comparable to tobacco‐only use (3.9%) but greater than cannabis‐only use (2.9%). There were high levels of internalizing and externalizing problems for the concurrent use group (47.4% internalizing, 61.6% externalizing), followed by the cannabis‐only group (44.8% internalizing, 48.5% externalizing), the tobacco‐only group (41.4% internalizing, 46.3% externalizing), and the non‐use group (22.4% internalizing, 30.4% externalizing). After controlling for covariates, only concurrent tobacco and cannabis use was associated with higher levels of externalizing problems than cannabis‐only or tobacco‐only use. There were no associations of internalizing problems with concurrent use compared to use of cannabis or tobacco alone. The study, Concurrent Use of Tobacco and Cannabis and Internalizing and Externalizing Problems in US Youths, is published in the July 1 issue of JAMA Network Open.
Spin‐Locked WS2 Vortex Emission via Photonic Crystal Bound States in the Continuum
Authors: Xia Meng , Chen Yuhua , Zhou Jiaxin , Wang Yuefeng , Huang Di , Zhang Xingwang
Published: July 2024

Owing to their strong exciton effects and valley polarization properties, monolayer transition‐metal dichalcogenides (1L TMDs) have unfolded the prospects of spin‐polarized light‐emitting devices. However, the wavefront control of exciton emission, which is critical to generate structured optical fields, remains elusive. In this work, the experimental demonstration of spin‐locked vortex emission from monolayer Tungsten Disulfide (1L WS2) integrated with Silicon Nitride (SiNx) PhC slabs is presented. The symmetry‐protected bound states in the continuum (BIC) in the SiNx PhC slabs engender azimuthal polarization field distribution in the momentum space with a topological singularity in the center of the Brillouin zone, which imposes the resonantly enhanced WS2 exciton emission with a spin‐correlated spiral phase front by taking advantage of the winding topologies of resonances with the assistance of geometric phase scheme. As a result, exciton emission from 1L WS2 exhibits helical wavefront and doughnut‐shaped intensity beam profile in the momentum space with topological charges locked to the spins of light. This strategy on spin‐dependent excitonic vortex emission may offer the unparalleled capability of valley‐polarized structured light generation for 1L TMDs.
Unveiling Gating Behavior in Piezoionic Effect: toward Neuromimetic Tactile Sensing
Authors: Wang Shuyu , Yang Tianyu , Zhang Dingli , Hua Qilin , Zhao Yuliang
Published: July 2024

The human perception system's information processing is intricately linked to the nonlinear response and gating effect of neurons. While piezoionics holds potential in emulating the pressure sensing capability of biological skin, the incorporation of information processing functions seems neglected. Here, ionic gating behavior in piezoionic hydrogels is uncovered as a notable extension beyond the previously observed linear responses. The hydrogel can generate remarkably high voltages (700 mV) and currents (7 mA) when indentation forces surpass the threshold. Through a comprehensive analysis involving simulations and experimental investigations, it is proposed that the gating behavior emerges due to significant diffusion differences between cations and anions. To showcase the practical implications of this breakthrough, the piezoionic hydrogels are successfully integrated with prostheses and robot hands, demonstrating that the gating effect enables accurate discrimination between gentle and harsh touch. The advancement in neuromimetic tactile sensing has significant potential for emerging applications such as humanoid robotics and biomedical engineering, offering valuable opportunities for further development of embodied neuromorphic intelligence.
The SWELL1 Channel Promotes Ischemic Brain Damage by Mediating Neuronal Swelling and Glutamate Toxicity
Authors: Chen Jianan , Yang Junhua , Chu Jiachen , Chen Kevin Hong , Alt Jesse , Rais Rana , Qiu Zhaozhu
Published: July 2024

Cytotoxic neuronal swelling and glutamate excitotoxicity are two hallmarks of ischemic stroke. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms are not well understood. Here, it is reported that SWELL1, the essential subunit of the volume‐regulated anion channel (VRAC), plays a dual role in ischemic injury by promoting neuronal swelling and glutamate excitotoxicity. SWELL1 expression is upregulated in neurons and astrocytes after experimental stroke in mice. The neuronal SWELL1 channel is activated by intracellular hypertonicity, leading to Cl− influx‐dependent cytotoxic neuronal swelling and subsequent cell death. Additionally, the SWELL1 channel in astrocytes mediates pathological glutamate release, indicated by increases in neuronal slow inward current frequency and tonic NMDAR current. Pharmacologically, targeting VRAC with a new inhibitor, an FDA‐approved drug Dicumarol, attenuated cytotoxic neuronal swelling and cell death, reduced astrocytic glutamate release, and provided significant neuroprotection in mice when administered either before or after ischemia. Therefore, these findings uncover the pleiotropic effects of the SWELL1 channel in neurons and astrocytes in the pathogenesis of ischemic stroke and provide proof of concept for therapeutically targeting it in this disease.
Highly C‐axis Aligned ALD‐InGaO Channel Improving Mobility and Thermal Stability for Next‐Generation 3D Memory Devices
Authors: Ryu Seong‐Hwan , Kim Hye‐Mi , Kim Dong‐Gyu , Park Jin‐Seong
Published: July 2024

A way to obtain highly ordered and thermally stable crystalline In–Ga–O (IGO) thin films is reported by atomic layer deposition with novel bulky dimethyl[N‐(tert‐butyl)−2‐methoxy‐2‐methylpropan‐1‐amine] gallium precursor. The optimal cation composition for IGO (In:Ga = 4:1 at%) shows a pronounced alignment along the high c‐axis with cubic (222) orientation at a relatively low annealing temperature of 400 °C. Moreover, the crystallinity and oxygen‐related defects persist even at elevated annealing temperatures of 700 °C. Owing to its well‐aligned crystallinity, the optimal IGO thin film transistor demonstrates extremely high field‐effect mobility (µFE) and remarkable thermal stability at high temperatures of 700 °C (µFE: 96.0 → 128.2 cm2 V−1s−1). Also, process‐wise, its excellent step coverage (side: 96%, bottom: 100%), compositional uniformity in a 40:1 aspect ratio structure, superior crystal growth in vertical structures, and excellent reproducibility make it a promising candidate for application as a channel in next‐generation 3D memory devices.
Impact of Dimethylformamide, Tetrahydrofuran, and Dimethyl Sulfoxide on Bulk Heterojunction Organic Solar Cells’ Efficiency and Environmental Footprint
Authors: Rodríguez‐Mas Fernando , Valiente David , Corral Pablo , Alonso José Luis , Fernández de Ávila Susana
Published: July 2024

Organic solar cells (OSCs), especially those employing bulk heterojunction architecture, present a promising avenue in renewable energy technology. These devices utilize organic materials and can be doped by solvents such as dimethylformamide (DMF), tetrahydrofuran (THF), and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Solvent doping (DMF, THF, and DMSO) is observed to augment the efficiency of OSCs. However, a trade‐off exists between the volume of solvent used and the device's efficiency. The judicious selection of solvents is crucial as it directly impacts the environmental footprint of the fabrication process and the power conversion efficiency. Notably, the use of solvents in OSC fabrication contributes to reducing the environmental impact across various categories, in particular Abiotic Depletion, Global Warming, and Human Toxicity. Among the solvents studied, THF demonstrates the most signiﬁcant reduction in environmental impact. Therefore, optimizing the choice and volume of solvents in OSC fabrication is paramount for achieving both enhanced device performance and minimal environmental footprint.
Recursive multi‐sensor fusion estimation under the coding‐based relay network
Authors: Zhang Mengyao , Liu Shuai , Deng Junyong
Published: July 2024

This paper studies the recursive fusion estimation issue for a class of linear time‐varying multi‐sensor systems with amplify‐and‐forward (AF) relays. The AF relay is located between the sensor and the estimator to forward measurement signals for facilitating long‐distance transmission. A binary encoding scheme is used to regulate signal transmission via a digital network where the signal is encoded into a bit string and decoded at the endpoint of the receiver. Because of the uncertainty of the network and the existence of channel noises, a set of Bernoulli distributed random variables is introduced to characterize the random bit flip phenomenon. The purpose of the addressed problem is to design a fusion estimator to simultaneously reflect the impact of multiplicative noises, the AF relay, the binary encoding scheme, and the random bit flip on the filtering error covariance. First of all, an upper bound for the filtering error covariance of the local estimator can be acquired, and by minimizing such an upper bound, the parametric form of the gain matrix is obtained. Subsequently, the fusion estimation is given based on the covariance intersection fusion strategy. Finally, a simulation example is presented to verify the effectiveness of the proposed multi‐sensor fusion estimation.
Using ALS to understand profilin 1's diverse roles in cellular physiology
Authors: Lindamood Halli L. , Liu Tatiana M. , Read Tracy‐Ann , Vitriol Eric A.
Published: July 2024

Profilin is an actin monomer‐binding protein whose role in actin polymerization has been studied for nearly 50 years. While its principal biochemical features are now well understood, many questions remain about how profilin controls diverse processes within the cell. Dysregulation of profilin has been implicated in a broad range of human diseases, including neurodegeneration, inflammatory disorders, cardiac disease, and cancer. For example, mutations in the profilin 1 gene (PFN1) can cause amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), although the precise mechanisms that drive neurodegeneration remain unclear. While initial work suggested proteostasis and actin cytoskeleton defects as the main pathological pathways, multiple novel functions for PFN1 have since been discovered that may also contribute to ALS, including the regulation of nucleocytoplasmic transport, stress granules, mitochondria, and microtubules. Here, we will review these newly discovered roles for PFN1, speculate on their contribution to ALS, and discuss how defects in actin can contribute to these processes. By understanding profilin 1's involvement in ALS pathogenesis, we hope to gain insight into this functionally complex protein with significant influence over cellular physiology.
Serological responses and clinical outcomes following a three‐dose primary COVID‐19 vaccine schedule in kidney transplant recipients and people on dialysis
Authors: Tharmaraj Dhakshayini , Boo Irene , O'Hara Jessie , Sun Shir , Polkinghorne Kevan R , Dendle Claire , Turner Stephen J , van Zelm Menno C , Drummer Heidi E , Khoury Gabriela , Mulley William R
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Despite vaccination strategies, people with chronic kidney disease, particularly kidney transplant recipients (KTRs), remained at high risk of poor COVID‐19 outcomes. We assessed serological responses to the three‐dose COVID‐19 vaccine schedule in KTRs and people on dialysis, as well as seroresponse predictors and the relationship between responses and breakthrough infection.

Methods

Plasma from 30 KTRs and 17 people receiving dialysis was tested for anti‐Spike receptor binding domain (RBD) IgG and neutralising antibodies (NAb) to the ancestral and Omicron BA.2 variant after Doses 2 and 3 of vaccination.

Results

After three doses, KTRs achieved lower anti‐Spike RBD IgG levels (P < 0.001) and NAb titres than people receiving dialysis (P = 0.002). Seropositive cross‐reactive Omicron neutralisation levels were achieved in 11/27 (40.7%) KTRs and 11/14 (78.6%) dialysis recipients. ChAdOx1/viral‐vector vaccine type, higher mycophenolate dose (> 1 g per day) and lower absolute B‐cell counts predicted poor serological responses in KTRs. ChAdOx‐1 vaccine type and higher monocyte counts were negative predictors in dialysis recipients. Among ancestral NAb seroresponders, higher NAb levels positively correlated with higher Omicron neutralisation (R = 0.9, P < 0.001). More KTRs contracted SARS‐CoV‐2 infection (14/30; 47%) than dialysis recipients (5/17; 29%) and had more severe disease. Those with breakthrough infections had significantly lower median interdose incremental change in anti‐Spike RBD IgG and ancestral NAb titres.

Conclusion

Serological responses to COVID‐19 vaccines in KTRs lag behind their dialysis counterparts. KTRs remained at high risk of breakthrough infection after their primary vaccination schedule underlining their need for booster doses, strict infection prevention measures and close surveillance.
Comparative Analysis of Charging Protocol for Degradation Reduction and Remaining‐Useful‐Life Enhancement of a Lithium‐Ion Battery
Authors: Adejare Abeeb A. , Okemakinde Femi E. , Tingbari Vincent Masabiar , Lee Jaehyeong , Kim Jonghoon
Published: July 2024

Lithium‐ion batteries are widely used in various mobile applications, particularly in electric vehicles, due to their high energy and power density. However, repeated charge and discharge cycles and inappropriate charging protocols can lead to its early degradation, resulting in reduced capacity and high internal resistance. Even though some research has proposed an optimal charging method of a lithium‐ion battery, an effective method is yet to be identified for both time and degradation reduction. Herein, an effective charging protocol that minimizes battery life degradation thereby enhancing its remaining‐useful‐life is proposed. The proposed protocol is an adaptive multistage constant current (MCC) and pulse charging (PC) protocol, utilizing time‐dependent current charging profiles to prevent battery degradation with state‐of‐charge (SOC) variation and pulse relaxation intervals. An extended Kalman filter algorithm for accuracy SOC estimation is embedded with the charging protocol. The proposed method is evaluated with other charging profiles, including constant current, MCC, and PC protocols, to evaluate its performance. The results show that among the four cases proposed, only the PC protocol outperforms other charging protocols, achieving a balance between fast charging and battery degradation prevention, making it better applicable for use in practical battery charge applications.
Differences in corneal nerve fiber density and fiber length in patients with painful chronic idiopathic axonal polyneuropathy and diabetic polyneuropathy
Authors: Nieuwenhoff Mariska D. , Nguyen Hoang‐Ton , Niehof Sjoerd P. , Huygen Frank J. P. M. , Verma Ajay , Klaassen Erica S. , Bechakra Malik , Geelhoed Wouter J. , Jongen Joost L. M. , Moll Annette C. , Vrancken Alexander F. J. E. , Petzold Axel , Groeneveld Geert Jan
Published: July 2024

Introduction/Aims

Corneal confocal microscopy (CCM) detects small nerve fiber loss and correlates with skin biopsy findings in diabetic neuropathy. In chronic idiopathic axonal polyneuropathy (CIAP) this correlation is unknown. Therefore, we compared CCM and skin biopsy in patients with CIAP to healthy controls, patients with painful diabetic neuropathy (PDN) and diabetics without overt neuropathy (DM).

Methods

Participants with CIAP and suspected small fiber neuropathy (n = 15), PDN (n = 16), DM (n = 15), and healthy controls (n = 16) underwent skin biopsy and CCM testing. Inter‐center intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were calculated for CCM parameters.

Results

Compared with healthy controls, patients with CIAP and PDN had significantly fewer nerve fibers in the skin (IENFD: 5.7 ± 2.3, 3.0 ± 1.8, 3.9 ± 1.5 fibers/mm, all p < .05). Corneal nerve parameters in CIAP (fiber density 23.8 ± 4.9 no./mm2, branch density 16.0 ± 8.8 no./mm2, fiber length 13.1 ± 2.6 mm/mm2) were not different from healthy controls (24.0 ± 6.8 no./mm2, 22.1 ± 9.7 no./mm2, 13.5 ± 3.5 mm/mm2, all p > .05). In patients with PDN, corneal nerve fiber density (17.8 ± 5.7 no./mm2) and fiber length (10.5 ± 2.7 mm/mm2) were reduced compared with healthy controls (p < .05). CCM results did not correlate with IENFD in CIAP patients. Inter‐center ICC was 0.77 for fiber density and 0.87 for fiber length.

Discussion

In contrast to patients with PDN, corneal nerve parameters were not decreased in patients with CIAP and small nerve fiber damage. Therefore, CCM is not a good biomarker for small nerve fiber loss in CIAP patients.
Ultrasonographic abnormalities in clinically unaffected nerves of patients with nonvasculitic motor and sensorimotor mononeuropathies
Authors: Podnar Simon
Published: July 2024

Introduction/Aims

Diagnostic criteria for multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN) and multifocal acquired demyelinating sensorimotor neuropathy (MADSAM) require the involvement of at least two peripheral nerves. However, many patients with very similar features have clinical involvement of only a single peripheral nerve, which may preclude their correct diagnosis and treatment. The present study aimed to present a cohort of such patients and discuss the role of ultrasonography (US) in their diagnosis.

Methods

Patients with nonvasculitic immune‐mediated motor mononeuropathies (MM) and sensorimotor mononeuropathies (SMM) were recruited prospectively or identified from the electronic records. They were invited to comprehensive follow‐up visits consisting of clinical examination, electrodiagnostic (EDx), and US studies.

Results

Twenty‐four patients (13 men) were studied (11 with MM). The characteristics of MM and SMM patients were very similar to MMN and MADSAM, respectively. The US, in addition to a long‐swollen segment (average length, 20 cm) in the clinically affected nerve, revealed nerve swelling in, on average, six additional sites in clinically unaffected nerves.

Discussion

In patients with clinical and EDx involvement of only a single nerve, an US demonstration of multifocal peripheral nerve swelling points to a more widespread, probably dysimmune mechanism. Further studies are needed to evaluate the value of US as a supplementary method for the diagnosis of MADSAM and MMN in patients with clinical involvement of a single nerve.
Advancements in Functional Nanomaterials Inspired by Viral Particles
Authors: Sun Xianxun , Lian Yindong , Tian Tao , Cui Zongqiang
Published: July 2024

Virus‐like particles (VLPs) are nanostructures composed of one or more structural proteins, exhibiting stable and symmetrical structures. Their precise compositions and dimensions provide versatile opportunities for modifications, enhancing their functionality. Consequently, VLP‐based nanomaterials have gained widespread adoption across diverse domains. This review focuses on three key aspects: the mechanisms of viral capsid protein self‐assembly into VLPs, design methods for constructing multifunctional VLPs, and strategies for synthesizing multidimensional nanomaterials using VLPs. It provides a comprehensive overview of the advancements in virus‐inspired functional nanomaterials, encompassing VLP assembly, functionalization, and the synthesis of multidimensional nanomaterials. Additionally, this review explores future directions, opportunities, and challenges in the field of VLP‐based nanomaterials, aiming to shed light on potential advancements and prospects in this exciting area of research.
Time‐Resolved Evaluation of L‐Dopa Metabolism in Bacteria‐Host Symbiotic System and the Effect on Parkinson's Molecular Pathology
Authors: Kim Doyeon , Nguyen Tin Tin Manh , Moon Yechan , Kim Jin‐Mo , Nam Hoonsik , Cha Dong Seok , An Yong Jin , de Guzman Arvie Camille V. , Park Sunghyouk
Published: July 2024

The gut microbiome influences drug metabolism and therapeutic efficacy. Still, the lack of a general label‐free approach for monitoring bacterial or host metabolic contribution hampers deeper insights. Here, a 2D nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) approach is introduced that enables real‐time monitoring of the metabolism of Levodopa (L‐dopa), an anti‐Parkinson drug, in both live bacteria and bacteria‐host (Caenorhabditis elegans) symbiotic systems. The quantitative method reveals that discrete Enterococcus faecalis substrains produce different amounts of dopamine in live hosts, even though they are a single species and all have the Tyrosine decarboxylase (TyrDC) gene involved in L‐dopa metabolism. The differential bacterial metabolic activity correlates with differing Parkinson's molecular pathology concerning alpha‐synuclein aggregation as well as behavioral phenotypes. The gene's existence or expression is not an indicator of metabolic activity is also shown, underscoring the significance of quantitative metabolic estimation in vivo. This simple approach is widely adaptable to any chemical drug to elucidate pharmacomicrobiomic relationships and may help rapidly screen bacterial metabolic effects in drug development.
The current landscape of academic statistical and data science collaboration units with examples
Authors: Sharp Julia , Griffith Emily H. , Craig Bruce A. , Hanlon Alexandra , Peskoe Sarah , Van Mullekom Jennifer
Published: July 2024

The delivery of academic statistical collaboration resources can vary among types of institutions and across time. In particular, this variation might occur in the management of infrastructure and the business model, the staffing model and opportunities for staff development. In this manuscript, we present examples of these three themes in modern academic statistical collaboration units and describe key advantages and challenges.
Comparative Study of Powdered Activated Carbon and Granular Activated Carbon in Metaldehyde Adsorption: Unraveling Isotherm and Kinetic Insights
Authors: Kamarudin Nur Salsabila , Dahalan Farrah Aini , Zubir Arina Azmina Ahmad , Hasan Masitah , Ibrahim Naimah , Lutpi Nabilah Aminah , Nazri Raja Nazrul Hakim Raja , Parmin Nor Azizah
Published: July 2024

Slug pellets contain metaldehyde, a potent substance that kills molluscs, which also harms the environment and human health by polluting water systems. Metaldehyde removal from wastewater has emerged as a possible treatment strategy utilizing activated carbon materials such as powdered activated carbon (PAC) and granular activated carbon (GAC). This study aims to compare and analyze the adsorption mechanisms and kinetics of these materials. SEM studies of PAC and GAC revealed unique morphological characteristics, with PAC having a finely textured surface and a well‐defined porosity structure, and GAC having a granular structure with irregularly shaped particles. According to the BET analysis, PAC had a larger surface area and pore volume than GAC, which had a lower surface area and pore volume. The FTIR spectra of PAC and GAC samples reveal different types of bonds such as ―OH, O―H, C―H, C═O, C═C, and C―O which potentially affect their reactivity and interaction with metaldehyde. PAC performed better than GAC in removing metaldehyde from water, as it had a higher surface area and a wider range of pore sizes. The Langmuir isotherm and the pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model fit the experimental data well for this adsorption study.
Plasmainduzierte Schichtnachbearbeitung
Authors: Brückner S. , Tasche D. , Bellmann M. , Josten S. , Wittland F. , Zeiß B. , Gerhard C.
Published: July 2024

Einbrennsilikonschichten (EBS) stellen ein hervorragendes Medium zur Generierung chemisch weitestgehend inerter und biologisch unschädlicher reibungsarmer Oberflächen dar. Die unter Umständen vorhandene Not‐wendigkeit von der EBS‐Beschichtung nachgeschalteten Fügeprozessen erfordert für das Erreichen stabiler Klebeverbindungen jedoch entweder die nachträgliche, meist ortsselektive Entfernung oder eine funktionale Modifikation der EBS‐Schicht. In der vorliegenden Studie konnte gezeigt werden, dass sich EBS‐Schichten durch die Anwendung eines Niedertemperaturplasmas bei Atmosphärendruck in glasähnliche, nahezu kohlenstofffreie Schichten umwandeln lassen. Diese Umwandlung wird dabei von einer Schichtdickenreduktion von ca. 50 % begleitet. Als Folge davon tritt eine deutlich gesteigerte Adhäsion von Klebstoffen auf der plasmabehandelten EBS‐Schicht auf.
Association of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 towards COVID-19 susceptibility
Authors: Alam Naveed , Lodhi Ghulam Mustafa , Khan Umar Ali , Zia Amn , Azam Maleeha , Khan Jadoon , Shah Tawaf Ali , Okla Mohammad K. , younous Youssouf Ali , Bourhia Mohammed
Published: July 2024

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Corona Virus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is pneumonia like viral disease which was originated from Wuhan China in 2019. Besides its high morbidity and mortality, a lot of physiological, enzymatic, hormonal and genetic imbalances had also been observed among Corona Virus Disease-19 (COVID-19) patients. The purpose of the present study was the assessment of comorbidities and association of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and transmembrane protease serine (TMPRSS) gene among COVID-19 patients. A total of 300 (healthy control n = 150 COVID-19 n = 150) individuals were sampled and genotyped for ACE2 rs2285666 and TMPRSS rs2070788 SNPs respectively. A total of 92/150 (61.3%) were male infected population, among the various age groups (age group 1: 1–15 yrs; age group 2: 16–30 yrs; age group 3: 31–45; age group 4: 46 and above) where most of the patients were from age group 4 (46 and above) 79/150 (52.7%) followed by age group 3 (31–45) 44/150 (29.3%). Logistic regression analysis showed that among clinical features cough (90%) was observed to be highest followed by fever (80%), sore throat (76%) and shortness of breath (75%). Hypertension (51%), type II diabetes (48.4%), ischemic heart disease (43.3%) history was found to prevalent highly associated with infected individuals. For ACE2 rs2285666, we found disease risk association for both allele and genotype while TMPRSS did not reveal genotype association. It is concluded from the current study that COVID-19 infects majority of male population. ACE2 rs2285666 allele and genotype association was observed with COVID-19 infection and protective association of TMPRSS2 rs2070788 allele towards COVID-19 infection.
Characterization of problematic subsurface soils in Eha-Amufu using integrated investigation approach: implications for earth works
Authors: Ayogu Nnadozie Onyekachi , Igwe Ogbonnaya , Onuoha Mosto Kalu
Published: July 2024

Mapping of the subsurface is a vital procedure during construction. It enhances hazard zonation, planning and protection of engineering structures. The present study centres on an area susceptible to foundation instability and building collapse in Enugu State, southeastern Nigeria. The study followed an integrated research method by employing a geotechnical approach and geophysical surveys such as electrical resistivity and remote sensing performed using Landsat, Aeromagnetic and shuttle radar topography mission (SRTM) images. Geotechnical data revealed that the subsurface comprised soils with higher fines (69%) than coarse (31%) grain sizes, high liquid limit (27–76%), plasticity index (9–46%), natural moisture content (6.0–14.8%) as well as low specific gravity (2.49–2.67) and coefficient of permeability (2.27 × 10–8–1.81 × 10–4 cm/s). Shear strength parameters- cohesion (13–35 kPa) and internal friction angle (9–21°) were low to moderate as well as the coefficient of consolidation (0.04–3.84 m2/mN) and coefficient of volume compressibility (0.05–0.29 m2/year). These properties are reminiscent of silty-clay soil of high plasticity and compressibility. The low soil resistivity with values ranging between 10 and 170 Ωm and aeromagnetic signal strength of 8.74 × 10–5 nT/km confirmed the silty-clay classification. The moderate to high lineament density determined from the remote sensing methods indicates the influx of moisture from higher surrounding grounds into the area to initiate high groundwater regime and flooding as observed in the fieldwork, which consequently triggers the activity of clay minerals present in the clay.
Rise of the beta-lactams: a retrospective, comparative cohort of oral beta-lactam antibiotics as step-down therapy for hospitalized adults with acute pyelonephritis
Authors: Hobbs Athena L.V. , Hemmige Vagish S. , Reel Katie L. , Jaso Theresa C. , Rose Dusten T. , Shea Katherine M.
Published: July 2024

Objective:

The aim of this study was to determine if oral beta-lactam therapy is non-inferior to alternative therapy at discharge following inpatient treatment with an IV cephalosporin for acute pyelonephritis.

Design:

Institutional Review Board (IRB)-approved, multicenter, retrospective, non-inferiority cohort (15% non-inferiority margin).

Setting:

Six hospitals within two healthcare systems.

Patients:

Hospitalized patients admitted to the medical floor with acute pyelonephritis without urologic abnormalities who received cefazolin or ceftriaxone followed by step-down therapy.

Methods:

Patients were discharged with either an oral beta-lactam or an oral alternative agent (ie, fluoroquinolone or trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole) to complete therapy. The primary objective was treatment failure defined as a composite of hospital readmission or an ED visit for a urinary cause within 30 days of discharge of the index hospitalization. Data were extracted manually from the electronic medical record.

Results:

A total of 211 patients were included; 122 received an oral beta-lactam and 89 received an oral alternative agent at discharge. There was no difference in 30-day treatment failure between the two groups (4.9% vs 5.6% for oral beta-lactams vs oral alternatives, respectively. Absolute difference = 0.7%; 95% CI -5.4% to 6.8%; P = .82). The median length of hospital stay, number of patients treated with intravenous ceftriaxone, duration of IV therapy, and median duration of oral therapy were no different between groups.

Conclusions:

In non-ICU patients admitted for pyelonephritis without urologic abnormalities, oral beta-lactams were non-inferior to oral alternatives for step-down therapy. In finding non-inferiority between the regimens, we show the feasibility of administering oral beta-lactams to complete therapy for acute pyelonephritis.
Healthcare staff perceptions of an electronic hand hygiene monitoring system within a large university system
Authors: Elliott Rachel , Fetibegovic Emina , Briggs Julie , Shaw Jana , Suits Paul , Wong Roger , Stewart Telisa
Published: July 2024

Objective:

The acceptability of an electronic HH monitoring system (EHHMS) was evaluated among hospital staff members.

Design:

An electronic HH monitoring system was implemented in June 2020 at a large, academic medical center. An interdisciplinary team developed a cross-sectional survey to gather staff perceptions of the EHHMS.

Setting:

The survey was conducted at a public, tertiary acute care hospital.

Participants:

The survey included current employees and staff. 1,273 participants responded. The mean age was 44.9 years (SD = 13.5). Most of the samples were female (71%) and non-Hispanic white (83%).

Methods:

A survey was conducted between June and July 2021. Responses were analyzed using Stata statistical software. Multiple logistic regression models were constructed to examine factors associated with negative perceptions of the EHHMS and its radiofrequency identification (RFID) badge. Supporting qualitative analyses were performed using Atlas.ti version 9.

Results:

Three-quarters (75%) of respondents reported neutral to negative perceptions of the EHHMS and its associated badge. Respondents reported limited influence on HH practices. Age, campus location, length of employment, job role, and opinion on data sharing were associated with negative perceptions of the EHHMS and RFID badge. Position in a direct patient care role was associated with negative perceptions of the RFID badge.

Conclusions:

Perceptions of the EHHMS aligned with previous research. Identified associations provide opportunities for targeted education, outreach, and intervention to increase acceptability and uptake. Lack of acceptance is explained by poorly perceived ease of use and usefulness, as well as challenges in implementation.
First record of the brachiopod Argyrotheca cuneata from a nearshore habitat at the southern coast of Türkiye
Authors: Örstan Aydin
Published: July 2024

The brachiopod Argyrotheca cuneata (Brachiopoda: Megathyrididae) is reported for the first time from the southern coast of Türkiye. Twenty-three complete specimens were found in samples of shell grit taken from depths less than 5 m. The findings suggest that A. cuneata may be a common brachiopod species in shallow nearshore habitats along the southern coasts of the country. Widths of the largest and the smallest specimens were 3.7 mm and 0.71 mm, respectively. A comparison of shell dimensions of all specimens indicate an allometric change in the shape of A. cuneata during growth from being longer than wide to wider than long. The protegula preserved on the smallest specimens are described and illustrated possibly for the first time for this species.
The first record of the parasite Peltogaster lineata (Rhizocephala: Peltogastridae) on the hermit crab Pagurus middendorffii (Anomura: Paguridae)
Authors: Golubinskaya Darya D. , Sharina Svetlana N. , Korn Olga M. , Arbuzova Natalia A.
Published: July 2024

In Peter the Great Bay (Russian waters of the Sea of Japan), rhizocephalan barnacle Peltogaster lineata Shiino, 1943, a common parasite of the hermit crab Pagurus brachiomastus (Thallwitz, 1891), was founded for the first time on the hermit crab Pagurus middendorffii Brandt, 1851 (Anomura: Paguridae). Taxonomical identification of the parasite was made using morphological and molecular methods. Pagurus middendorffii is the sixth host of P. lineata.
Validation of the German Intimacy Scale
Authors: Weilenmann Sonja , von Luckner Alexander , Huber Charlotte , Birnie-Porter Carolyn , Pfaltz Monique C. , Jansson Billy
Published: July 2024

Abstract: The intimacy questionnaire by Birnie (2009 ; Birnie-Porter & Lydon, 2013 ) is a promising measure of relationship intimacy due to its strong theoretical background, the inclusion of lay conceptions and the differentiation of emotional and sexual intimacy. This study aimed to validate our German translation of Birnie’s questionnaire, which we labeled Intimacy Scale (IS). In two independent samples (379 and 203 individuals), confirmatory factor analyses showed best support for a bifactor S-1 model, with a strong general intimacy factor and a small specific factor, capturing unique portions of the variance related to sexual intimacy. The general intimacy factor correlated very highly and to the point of redundancy with relationship quality. Taken together, the IS may be useful as measure of relationship quality with a general (intimacy) factor. Future research is needed to improve the factorial structure of the scale.
Cate Larsen: Teaching About Rocks
Authors: Cutts Elise
Published: July 2024

A geocommunicator uses the connective power of social media to bring geology to the masses.
Thanh Huong “Helen” Nguyen: Chasing Down Pathogens
Authors: Kornei Katherine
Published: July 2024

An environmental engineer addresses some of public health’s biggest problems.
Devon Parfait: Using Earth Science to Support Coastal Residents
Authors: van Deelen Grace
Published: July 2024

At every step of his career, a coastal resilience expert has worked to protect his community.
Britney Schmidt: Following the Ice
Authors: Kornei Katherine
Published: July 2024

An Earth and planetary scientist is most at home in cold places that mimic the worlds of the outer solar system.
Pedro Val: River Science Runs in the Family
Authors: Rodrigues Meghie
Published: July 2024

A researcher mixes geology and biology to make sense of river biodiversity.
Assessing external exposome by implementing an Environmental Data Management System using Open Data
Authors: Tagliaferro Sofia , Maio Sara , Pirona Federico , Stanisci Ilaria , Sarno Giuseppe , Silvi Patrizia , Kermenidou Marianthi , Papaioannou Nafsika , Perchard Reena , Prpic Igor , Polanska Kinga , Jerzynska Joanna , Ramos Elisabete , Rovira Joaquim , Belmonte Jordina , Snoj Tratnik Janja Snoj , Horvat Milena , Kocman David , Spiric Zdravko , Zickella Jacqueline , Fasola Salvatore , La Grutta Stefania , Malizia Velia , Montalbano Laura , Keijser Bart , Kieboom Jasper , Larsen Martin , Schumacher Marta , van den Broek Tim , Villette Rémy , Baiz Nour , Barros Henrique , Bartzis John , Ahmad Norhidayah Binti , Bocca Beatrice , Brescianini Sonia , Calamandrei Gemma , Chatzimpaloglou Anthoula , Dogliotti Eugenia , Falnoga Ingrid , Fonseca Maria João , Gabriel Catherine , Gamil Amir , Gotti Alberto , Hanke Wojciech , Johnstone Edward , Jurewicz Joanna , Kabesch Michael , Kalska-Sochacka Katarzyna , Karakitsios Spyros , Kocman David , Kumar Vikas , Mazej Darja , Mazzei Filomena , Meccia Ettore , Minghetti Luisa , Nisticò Lorenza , de Oliveira Fernandes Eduardo , Perchard Reena , Pino Anna , Sarigiannis Dimosthenis , Schumacher Marta , Stazi Maria Antonietta , Szcześniak Kamila , Tancredi Patrizia , Silva Gabriela Ventura , Viegi Giovanni , Baldacci Sandra , Annesi-Maesano Isabella ,   EarlyFOOD,   HEALS EXHES
Published: July 2024

Due to the increasing importance of exposome in environmental epidemiology, feasibility and usefulness of an Environmental Data Management System (EDMS) using Open Data was evaluated. The EDMS includes data from 10 European cities (Celje (Slovenia), Łódź (Poland), Manchester (UK), Palermo (Italy), Paris (France), Porto (Portugal), Regensburg (Germany), Reus (Spain), Rijeka (Croatia), Thessaloniki (Greece)) about external non-specific and specific exposome factors at the city or country level (2017–2020). Findings showed that the highest values of life expectancy were in Reus females (86 years) and Palermo males (81 years). UK had the highest obesity rate (28%), Croatia the highest prescribed drug consumption (62%), Greece and Portugal the highest smoking rates (37%, 42%) and daily alcohol consumption (21%), respectively. The most polluted cities were Thessaloniki for PM10 (38 µg/m3), Łódź for PM2.5 (25 µg/m3), Porto for NO2 (62 µg/m3) and Rijeka for O3 (92 µg/m3). Thessaloniki had the highest grey space (98%) and Łódź the highest cumulative amount of pollen (39,041 p/m3). The highest daily noise levels ≥ 55 dB was in Reus (81% to traffic) and Regensburg (21% to railway). In drinking water, arsenic had the highest value in Thessaloniki (6.4 µg/L), boron in Celje (24 mg/L) and lead in Paris (46.7 µg/L). Portugal and Greece showed the highest pesticide residues in food (7%). In conclusion, utilizing open-access databases enables the translation of research findings into actionable strategies for public health interventions.
Time to adequate weight gain and predictors among low-birth-weight preterm neonates at Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of hospitals in Bahir-Dar
Authors: Tigabu Dagnew , Gezie Hailemariam , Baye Fekadie Dagnew , Birhanu Shiferaw , Workie Hailemariam Mekonnen
Published: July 2024

Weight gain in low birth-weight babies remains a challenge to the management of the neonatal period in low and middle-income countries like Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the time to adequate weight gain and its predictors among low-birth-weight preterm neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care unit of public hospitals in Bahir Dar City. An institution-based retrospective follow-up study was conducted from March 4 to April 3, 2023, using three years of data. About 344 low-birth-weight preterm babies were recruited and followed up until 28 days of age. Model goodness-of-fit was checked by Cox Snell residuals test. The Cox-Proportional Hazards Model was used to assess predictors of weight gain with a statistically significant level of P-value < 0.05. The median weight gain time was 15 days with an overall incidence density rate of 6.3 per 100 person-day of observation (95% CI 0.055, 0.071). Absence of medical problems of mothers (AHR: 1.63, 95% CI 1.015, 4.614), spontaneous vaginal mode of delivery (AHR: 1.53, 95% CI 1.028, 2.593), and long duration of labor (AHR: 3.18, 95% CI 1.579, 6.413) were significant predictors. The time of adequate weight gain was long. Early detection and management of significant predictors is recommended.
Energy-efficient quad tree-based clustering using edge-assisted UAV-relay to enhance network lifetime in WSN
Authors: Prasad K. H. Vijayendra , Sasikumar P.
Published: July 2024

Wireless sensor networks' most prominent concern is energy optimization. It faces significant problems like high energy consumption, data loss, delay, and low network lifetime. To improve, it uses clustering. However, during clustering, coverage holes are most likely to appear near the network's edge, within the cluster, and between clusters. As a result, there are more energy holes and dead nodes; therefore, the goal of this work is to maximize node network lifetime and minimize energy consumption during data transmission in the wireless sensor network (WSN). The proposed work includes three entities: sensor nodes, an edge-assisted unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), and a base station. It uses an edge-assisted unmanned aerial vehicle to provide additional resources to the UAV, which helps reduce energy consumption during data transmission. This research proposes using communication to enhance the speed and bandwidth of data transmission and reduce transmission latency. This work attempts to improve performance by increasing throughput.