bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent Developments on 2D-Materials for Gas Sensing Application
Authors: Prakash Chandra , Yadav Ankit K. , Sharma Minakshi , Singh Vijay K. , Dixit Ambesh
Published: December 2024

The industrialization has severely impacted the ecosystem because of intensive use of chemicals and gases, causing the undesired outcomes such as hazardous gases, e.g., carbon monoxide (CO), nitrox oxide (NOx), ammonia (NH3), hydrogen (H2), hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and even volatile organic compounds. These hazardous gases are not only impacting the living beings but also the entire ecosystem. Thus, it becomes essential to monitor these gases for their efficient management. There are continuous efforts to realize such sensors, which rely on the functional materials properties. The widely used such sensors use metal oxide nanomaterials. However, these are not very sensitive and operate at higher temperatures. In contrast, two-dimensional (2D) materials such as Graphene, Borophene, MXenes, transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) including doping, functionalization, and heterostructures offer unique physical, chemical, and optoelectronic properties. The chemical properties with high specific surface area of 2D materials make them suitable for gas sensing applications. The present article covers the recent developments on 2D-TMDs layered material, including MoS2, WS2, h-BN, and Graphene, as well as their heterostructures, for gas sensing applications. The article also emphasizes their synthesis and characterization techniques, especially for 2D materials. The electronic properties of these materials are highly sensitive to any chemical changes, resulting in significant changes in their resistance. It led to the development of the highly scalable chemiresistive-based gas sensor. The sensing parameters such as sensitivity, selectivity, gas concentration, limit of detection, temperature, humidity, response, reproducibility, stability, recovery, and response time are discussed in detail to understand the gas sensing characteristics of these 2D materials. The article also includes the past developments, current status, and future scope of these materials as highly efficient gas sensors. Thus, this review article may lead the researchers to design and develop highly sensitive gas sensors based on 2D materials.
AF-EIDD: an anchor-free, end-to-end obstacle image denoising detection network for rail transit
Authors: Zhang Mingchao , He Deqiang , Qin Yuliang , Jin Zhenzhen , Chen Yanjun , Shan Sheng
Published: December 2024

With the growth of urban populations and the increasing demand for transportation, urban rail transit plays a crucial role in modern cities. However, adverse weather conditions pose significant challenges to the robustness of obstacle detection for most traditional networks in rail environments. This paper proposes a highly robust anchor-free, end-to-end obstacle image denoising detection network (AF-EIDD) for rail transit. AF-EIDD enhances obstacle detection by denoising images and extracting critical features for accurate obstacle identification, even under adverse weather conditions. The network is lightweight yet capable of capturing local and global image characteristics, ensuring high efficiency and precision. The proposed method has been validated on datasets collected from real-world rail scenarios, including the Nanning Metro Line 2 test route and tunnel environments. AF-EIDD achieves high average mean average precision while maintaining a lightweight design, demonstrating practical applicability for real-time obstacle detection. A dedicated robustness testing dataset was also developed, covering nighttime, heavy rain, and dense fog conditions. Experimental results indicate that AF-EIDD outperforms state-of-the-art obstacle detection networks in terms of robustness, highlighting its potential for deployment in complex rail transit environments.
Optimized path planning for underground coal mine filling: an greedy adaptive directional bidirectional rapidly-exploring random tree
Authors: Zhang Zihang , Liu Yang , Bo Lei , Yang Shangqing , Wang Yanwen
Published: December 2024

The technology of mining filling is of great significance in improving coal recovery rates, protecting the environment, and conserving land resources. The current efficiency of filling is constrained by single-method approaches. To address this issue, this study develops a path planning model based on underground fill space data, which comprehensively considers fill path length and material volume using a goal programming method, and designs corresponding constraints and adaptive weights. To further optimize search efficiency, an adaptive directional bidirectional rapidly-exploring random tree (AD-BIRRT) algorithm is proposed. This algorithm can intelligently adjust the optimal exploration direction based on current demand and state, significantly enhancing search efficiency and accuracy through the establishment of a dual-tree structure. Additionally, a novel greedy strategy is introduced to resolve path smoothing and redundancy issues. To verify the rationality and effectiveness of the proposed method, comparative tests were conducted in test scenarios, fill scenarios, and on experimental platforms against BIRRT, BIRRT*, Genetic algorithm, and artificial potential field algorithms. The results indicate that the proposed greedy AD-BIRRT algorithm exhibits significant advantages in terms of computation time, path quality, and material accumulation. This algorithm effectively enhances the efficiency and quality of the filling process.
Electromagnetic non-orthognal flow of variable viscosity nanofluid over a rotating riga disk with prescribed thermal slip
Authors: Ali I , Mehmood R , Sarkar S
Published: December 2024

This paper investigates the complex dynamics of a 3D oblique magneto hydrodynamic (MHD) flow of Ag-water Nanofluid across a rotating Riga disk. Temperature dependent viscosity along with prescribed momentum and thermal slip on the surface of rotating Riga disk are taken into account. Permanent magnets are attached to a flat surface of the electrode array on Riga plate, which is oriented span-wise. This configuration produces an exponentially decaying Lorentz force parallel to the array. The interaction of magnetic fields, rotational effects, and boundary slip phenomena in a three-dimensional flow is the main topic of the study. The study uses the Shooting algorithm to investigate the effects of the Riga disk's rotation and the presence of a magnetic field on heat transfer and flow characteristics. Furthermore, the addition of momentum and thermal slip boundary conditions sheds more light on differences between realistic situations and standard no-slip models. With implications for better design and optimization in engineering systems involving rotating disks and magnetic fields, this work advances our understanding of complex fluid dynamics in MHD applications. Velocity profiles

f
′
(
η
)

and g(η) drops down while enhancing values of nano particle volume fraction ϕ whereas g(η) reduces by ehancement of Hartman number Ha and velocity slip parameter ω
1. The temperature θ(η) rises with increasing thermal slip ω
2 velocity slip parameter ω
1 and Hartmann number Ha. Additionally, it increases with the volume fraction of solid nanoparticles ϕ and the width parameter δ. As width parameter δ increases, the local heat flux

−

K

n
f

K

f

.
θ
′
(
0
)

decreases. Skin friction coefficient f″(0) increases with viscosity parameter m and decreases with variations in thermal slip parameter ω
2. 3D flow patterns exhibits the significant influence of momentum slip parameter ω
1 on the location of stagnation point.
Dynamical-decoupling-protected unconventional nonadiabatic geometric quantum computation
Authors: Wu Xuan , Jin Long-Yi , Wang Hong-Fu
Published: December 2024

Unconventional nonadiabatic geometric quantum computation not only possesses the geometric robustness of conventional ones but also avoids the need to remove the dynamical phase. Dynamical decoupling is a promising method to protect unconventional nonadiabatic geometric gates against decoherence. Here, we propose a protocol to implement unconventional nonadiabatic geometric quantum computation protected by dynamical decoupling. By using three physical qubits to encode a logical qubit and choosing a system Hamiltonian that commutes with the decoupling group, a universal set of dynamical-decoupling-protected unconventional nonadiabatic geometric gates can be realized. Our work maintains the robustness of unconventional nonadiabatic geometric gates while protecting quantum gates against both collective and independent decoherence.
New soliton structure and trajectory equation for the asymmetrical Nizhnik- Novikov-Veselov equation with variable coefficients in incompressible fluid
Authors: Ji Yin , Tan Wei
Published: December 2024

This paper focuses on some new soliton structures and dynamic properties of the (2+1)-dimensional asymmetrical Nizhnik-Novikov-Veselov equation with variable coefficients, which can be used to describe the nonlinear wave phenomena in incompressible fluid, such as parameter regulation of soliton structures, hybridization behavior between different solitons and trajectory equations of soliton collisions. Firstly, the N-soliton solutions and parameter regulations are studied based on the bilinear form of equations. Secondly, the M-order lump solutions and trajectory equations are discussed by employing the long wave limit method. Finally, we focused on studying the interaction behavior between different solitons and the trajectory equations before and after collision, and provided a proof of the trajectory between the lump solution and the n-soliton before and after collision (where n is any positive integer).
Collective synchronization of two-layer Kuramoto-oscillator network with different architectures
Authors: Wang Kekai , Wang Xiaofeng , Wu Jie
Published: December 2024

The topic of multi-layer networks has received considerable attention in recent years. However, most existing studies are based on idealized assumptions, such as identical type of intra-layer topologies and one-to-one inter-layer connections, which fail to reflect the heterogeneity and flexibility observed in real-world networks like brain neural activities and power grids. To address these limitations, this study investigates the synchronization dynamics of a two-layer Kuramoto network with distinct topologies, unequal node counts, and flexible random inter-layer connections. Using numerical simulations, we analyze how structural asymmetries and flexible inter-layer connections influence synchronization. Our findings reveal that: (1) for identical type of network topologies, the layer with more nodes is less influenced by the other layer as coupling strength increases; (2) distinct network topologies show different synchronization rates; (3) when the number of nodes in one layer is fixed and in the other increases (with the layer having more nodes randomly connecting to the layer with fewer nodes), the layer with fewer nodes synchronizes more easily, while partial synchronization occurs in the other layer, in the inter-layer connections, and across the entire network; (4) the difference in node counts in two-layer networks can facilitate synchronization.
DBI-essence inflation in loop quantum cosmology: warm intermediate and logamediate scenarios
Authors: Sarkar Subhajit , Sardar Alok , Debnath Ujjal
Published: December 2024

This work examines the DBI-essence dark energy model, focusing on intermediate and logamediate warm inflation within the framework of Loop Quantum Cosmology. The model considers both constant dissipative coefficient (Γ0) and variable dissipative coefficient (Γ1
V(ϕ)) in both the intermediate inflation and logamediate inflation scenarios. Our analysis uses the slow-roll condition to derive the DBI-essence field ϕ(t), e-folds N(t), and the DBI-essence potential V(t), and calculates the first two slow-roll Hubble parameters ε(t) and η(t). Graphic representations have been used to evaluate the model's stability. We also obtain the primordial perturbation spectrums for this scenario using the slow-roll approximation and the longitudinal gauge. We also provide universal formulations for the tensor-scalar ratio, scalar spectral index, and their running.
A Search for Self-lensing Binaries with TESS and Constraints on their Occurrence Rate
Authors: Yamaguchi Natsuko , El-Badry Kareem , Sorabella Nicholas M.
Published: December 2024

Five self-lensing binaries (SLBs) have been discovered with Kepler light curves. They contain white dwarfs (WDs) in AU-scale orbits that gravitationally lens solar-type companions. Forming SLBs likely requires common envelope evolution when the WD progenitor is an AGB star and has a weakly bound envelope. No SLBs have yet been discovered with data from the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS), which observes far more stars than Kepler did. Identifying self-lensing in TESS data is made challenging by the fact that TESS only observes most stars for  ∼25 days at a time, so only a single lensing event will be observed for typical SLBs. TESS’s smaller aperture also makes it sensitive only to SLBs a factor of  ∼100 brighter than those to which Kepler is sensitive. We demonstrate that TESS has nevertheless likely already observed  ∼4 times more detectable SLBs than Kepler. We describe a search for non-repeating self-lensing signals in TESS light curves and present preliminary candidates for which spectroscopic follow-up is ongoing. We calculate the sensitivity of our search with injection and recovery tests on TESS and Kepler light curves. Based on the 5 SLBs discovered with Kepler light curves, we estimate that (1.1 ± 0.6)% of solar-type stars are orbited by WDs with periods of 100–1000 days. This implies a space density of AU-scale WD + main sequence (MS) binaries a factor of 20–100 larger than that of astrometrically identified WD + MS binaries with orbits in Gaia DR3. We conclude that the Gaia sample is still quite incomplete, mainly because WD + MS binaries can only be unambiguously identified as such for high mass ratios.
The simulation of ELM control by the advanced divertor configuration in EAST
Authors: Li Y.L. , Xia T.Y. , Luo Z.P. , Yu Q.Z. , Mao S.F. , Gui B. , He X.X. , Qi H.M. , Xie P.C. , Ye M.Y. ,   the EAST team
Published: December 2024

Edge localized modes (ELMs) are effectively suppressed in the ‘quasi-snowflake’ (QSF) divertor discharges, which has been observed in the Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST). To obtain the physical mechanism of ELM suppression, the numerical simulations are carried out using the BOUT++ turbulence model. The simulations reveal that the large local magnetic shear near the outer mid-plane (OMP) induced by QSF divertor plays a key role in the ELM suppression. Using the EFIT code, a series of plasma equilibria with different 2nd X-points and nearly fixed last closed flux surfaces (LCFSs) are generated to analyze the effects of the different magnetic configurations on ELMs. Here we mainly discuss the standard single-null (SN), snowflake plus (SF+), and snowflake minus (SF-) divertors. The simulation results indicate that: (1) for linear instability, compared to SN, SF+ is more unstable, while SF- is more stable. Essentially, the local magnetic shear formed by different divertor geometries can alter the growth rate of the peeling-ballooning (P-B) mode. Through statistical analysis, there is an inverse correlation between the strength of local magnetic shear and the growth rate of P-B mode; (2) for ELM energy loss, SN is 4.60%, SF+ is 7.50%, and SF- is 0.35%. The SF+ divertor triggers a larger ELM, which is consistent with the TCV experiments; while the SF- divertor reduces the ELM amplitude, which is similar to the QSF experiments in EAST. Further analysis shows that the Reynolds stress determines the ELM size under different divertor configurations. The Reynolds stress can redistribute energy to fluctuations and cause the growth of low-n modes. What’s more, the SF- divertor not only suppresses the radial transport, but also has large magnetic flux expansion and connection length, which can reduce the target heat flux effectively. The conclusion of this paper shows that the advanced divertor configurations are promising for the future fusion.
Development of a control-assist mode multi-DOF bionic arm
Authors: Manasa K. , L S Praveen , Nagananda S N
Published: December 2024

A bionic arm is an artificial device that restores some of the functionality of a physically challenged person’s missing arms. Electromyography (EMG) impulses operate today’s bionic arms. Many people reject these devices because of their weight, expense, and limited Degrees Of Freedom (DOF), because of the intrusive procedures required to get stronger signals. Amputees who no longer have arm function find rehabilitation to be more difficult. It is essential to have a more straightforward method for deciphering signals and operating the bionic arm. This work focuses on creating bionic arm control systems that are both affordable and capable of several degrees of freedom, hence reducing the need for extensive rehabilitation. This system combines mechanical and electrical components and is operated by the user. It is created by utilizing the life cycle and systems engineering concepts. Three non-invasive control systems speech recognition, keypad control, and foot pressure control provide inputs to the transmitter block, which comprises a microprocessor. Five DC motors comprise the reception blocks, and motor drivers drive them in response to input signals received wirelessly from the transmitter. The control system that was designed may provide more than ten degrees of freedom. Depending on what the amputees need, these control methods can be utilized separately or in combination. The method has the advantage of being straightforward and requiring fewer operations and recovery times. By delivering the signals wirelessly, fewer wiring harnesses are needed on the transmitter and receiver blocks.
Phase stabilization of ammonium nitrate-based propellants using ferric oxide and manganese dioxide catalysts
Authors: Phondekar Prabhat Dattakumar , Biswas Shelly
Published: December 2024

Traditional booster rockets typically use solid propellants with Ammonium Perchlorate (AP) as the oxidizer. However, AP releases toxic chlorine gas during combustion, raising concerns about environmental impact and prompting the exploration of greener alternatives, such as Ammonium Nitrate (AN). Despite its potential, AN faces challenges due to phase transitions at room temperature. This study aims to stabilize AN’s phases to improve the performance of AN/AP-based composite solid propellants (CSPs) by adding ferric oxide (Fe2O3) and manganese dioxide (MnO2). The partial substitution of AP with AN is examined to overcome the limitations of pure AN-based propellants. Theoretical analyses are conducted to assess the effects of AN/AP-based propellants on performance parameters such as specific impulse (Isp). Experimental studies involving burning rate, density measurements, and flame characterization reveal that the presence of AP and catalysts Fe2O3 and MnO2, significantly enhances the burning rate and flame temperature, ensuring complete combustion. Additionally, these catalysts stabilize AN’s endothermic phase transitions and accelerate the decomposition of its breakdown products, leading to improved combustion in AN/AP-based propellants.
Research on hydraulic system fault diagnosis method based on machine learning
Authors: Liu Qingtong , Li Mantuo
Published: December 2024

This study proposes a machine learning-based fault diagnosis method for hydraulic systems, focusing on using K-means clustering algorithm for data preprocessing, use Support Vector Machine (SVM) and Convolutional Neural Network Gated Recurrent Unit (CNN-GRU) models respectively for fault classification. By performing cluster analysis on sensor data, the data dimensions can be effectively reduced and the efficiency of fault analysis can be improved. The results show that the accuracy of the SVM algorithm in the cooler status and valve status classification tasks reached 99.77% and 100.00% respectively. After the introduction of the clustering algorithm, its training time was significantly reduced, showing extremely high real-time fault diagnosis capabilities. The CNN-GRU model performs particularly well in handling complex fault classification tasks, especially in the hydraulic accumulator fault classification task, with an accuracy rate as high as 96.60%, which is significantly better than the SVM model. Although the training time of CNN-GRU is longer, its advantages in complex pattern recognition give it obvious advantages in high-accuracy application scenarios. Multi-fault diagnosis was conducted, and the results show that the CNN-GRU model achieves the best performance without employing clustering, emphasizing the importance of preserving the integrity of the original sensor data in complex fault scenarios.
Clinical Inertia in the Diagnosis and Management of Hypertension Following Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring
Authors: Flatow James S , Byfield Rushelle , Singer Jessica , Chang Melinda J , Schwartz Joseph E , Shimbo Daichi , Kronish Ian M
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

Clinical inertia is common after office blood pressure (BP) is high. Little is known about clinical inertia after ambulatory BP monitoring (ABPM).

METHODS

This was an electronic health record-based retrospective cohort study of patients with high office BP (≥140/90 mm Hg) referred for ABPM at a medical center in New York City between 2016 and 2020. Diagnostic inertia was defined as clinicians not newly diagnosing or treating hypertension in patients with high ABPM (i.e., mean awake BP ≥135/85 mm Hg). Therapeutic inertia was defined as clinicians not intensifying treatment for patients with established hypertension after high ABPM. Multilevel modeling was used to assess patient and clinician characteristics associated with inertia.

RESULTS

Among 329 patients without prior hypertension, 144 (44%) had high awake BP. Of these, diagnostic inertia occurred in 45 of 144 (31%). Among 239 patients taking antihypertensive medication, 141 (59%) had high awake BP. Of these, therapeutic inertia occurred in 73 of 141 (52%). In multilevel models, male gender (odds ratio [OR] 2.81, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.11–7.08), lower awake systolic BP (SBP) (OR 0.73 per 5 mm Hg increase, 95% CI 0.53–1.00), and specialist vs. primary care clinician type (OR 4.57, 95% CI 1.78–11.75) were associated with increased diagnostic inertia. Increasing age (OR 1.16 per 5-year increase, 95% CI 1.00–1.28) and lower awake SBP (OR 0.82 per 5 mm Hg increase, 95% CI 0.66–0.95) were associated with increased therapeutic inertia.

CONCLUSIONS

Diagnostic and therapeutic inertia were common after ABPM, particularly when awake SBP was near the threshold.
Intraspecific variation in seed dispersal between annual and perennial populations
Authors: Velichka Jenni , Friedman Jannice
Published: December 2024

Background and Aims

Seed dispersal impacts plant fitness by shaping the habitat and distribution of offspring, influencing population dynamics and spatial genetic diversity. Whether the evolution of dispersal strategies varies across herbaceous life forms (annual, perennial or clonal) is unresolved. In this study, we examine how seed-dispersal strategies vary between annual and perennial populations of Mimulus guttatus (syn. Erythranthe guttata), investigating differences in seedpod orientation and shape and in the probability and distance of seed dispersal.

Methods

We conducted a greenhouse experiment using 190 plants from six populations of annual and perennial M. guttatus, to compare floral orientation, seedpod architecture and its effect on seed dispersal. We used controlled wind trials to measure the probability of seed dispersal and the dispersal distance of individual seeds from plants.

Key Results

We identify the following three key differences in seedpod architecture and seed dispersal in annuals and perennials: seedpods are angled more upward-facing in perennials compared with annuals; a lower proportion of seed is dispersed in perennials; and seeds disperse further in perennials than in annuals. These results are consistent with our predictions that a clonal, perennial life form should be associated with traits that increase the retention of seeds, requiring greater wind speeds to dislodge seed and increasing dispersal distance.

Conclusions

Despite the close genetic relationship between annual and perennial populations of M. guttatus, we find differences in seedpod architecture and seed dispersal. We suggest that perennial plants, characterized by clonal reproduction and multi-year survival, benefit from strategies that facilitate long-distance seed dispersal to mitigate competition and promote colonization of new habitats.
Accelerated enumeration of extreme rays through a positive-definite elementarity test
Authors: Mores Wannes , Bhonsale Satyajeet S , Logist Filip , Van Impe Jan F M
Published: December 2024

Motivation

Analysis of metabolic networks through extreme rays such as extreme pathways and elementary flux modes has been shown to be effective for many applications. However, due to the combinatorial explosion of candidate vectors, their enumeration is currently limited to small- and medium-scale networks (typically <200 reactions). Partial enumeration of the extreme rays is shown to be possible, but either relies on generating them one-by-one or by implementing a sampling step in the enumeration algorithms. Sampling-based enumeration can be achieved through the canonical basis approach (CBA) or the nullspace approach (NSA). Both algorithms are very efficient in medium-scale networks, but struggle with elementarity testing in sampling-based enumeration of larger networks.

Results

In this paper, a novel elementarity test is defined and exploited, resulting in significant speedup of the enumeration. Even though NSA is currently considered more effective, the novel elementarity test allows CBA to significantly outpace NSA. This is shown through two case studies, ranging from a medium-scale network to a genome-scale metabolic network with over 600 reactions. In this study, extreme pathways are chosen as the extreme rays, but the novel elementarity test and CBA are equally applicable to the other types. With the increasing complexity of metabolic networks in recent years, CBA with the novel elementarity test shows even more promise as its advantages grows with increased network complexity. Given this scaling aspect, CBA is now the faster method for enumerating extreme rays in genome-scale metabolic networks.

Availability and implementation

All case studies are implemented in Python. The codebase used to generate extreme pathways using the different approaches is available at https://gitlab.kuleuven.be/biotec-plus/pos-def-ep.
‘Biting the hand that feeds’: Ethnic minoritized as policy actors within organizations
Authors: Nouman Hani
Published: December 2024

In multicultural societies, the involvement of ethnic minoritized in policy arenas is essential for promoting equality and ensuring that the voices of disadvantaged minority groups are heard. This article presents empirical evidence regarding the level, form, and goals of ethnic minoritized involvement in policy arenas. Based on data from social workers of the Arab minority group in Israel employed in the public sector and in non-profit ethnic organizations, the findings reveal that ethnic minoritized work in diverse ways to influence policy, highlighting courses of action characterized by both consensus and conflict. Involvement goals are diverse, with an emphasis on promoting and expanding opportunities for the minority community. This study offers a unique lens for navigating the intersection of race, inequality, and opportunities in organizations within multicultural societies.
Concurrent processing of the prosodic hierarchy is supported by cortical entrainment and phase-amplitude coupling
Authors: Oderbolz Chantal , Stark Elisabeth , Sauppe Sebastian , Meyer Martin
Published: December 2024

Models of phonology posit a hierarchy of prosodic units that is relatively independent from syntactic structure, requiring its own parsing. It remains unexplored how this prosodic hierarchy is represented in the brain. We investigated this foundational question by means of an electroencephalography (EEG) study. Thirty young adults listened to German sentences containing manipulations at different levels of the prosodic hierarchy. Evaluating speech-to-brain cortical entrainment and phase-amplitude coupling revealed that prosody’s hierarchical structure is maintained at the neural level during spoken language comprehension. The faithfulness of this tracking varied as a function of the hierarchy’s degree of intactness as well as systematic interindividual differences in audio-motor synchronization abilities. The results underscore the role of complex oscillatory mechanisms in configuring the continuous and hierarchical nature of the speech signal and situate prosody as a structure indispensable from theoretical perspectives on spoken language comprehension in the brain.
Reinfection and Resistance Associated Substitutions Following a Minimal Monitoring Approach for HCV Treatment in MINMON Trial
Authors: Han Win Min , Solomon Sunil Suhas , Smeaton Laura , Avihingsanon Anchalee , Wagner Cardoso Sandra , Li Jiani , Parvangada Aiyappa , Sulkowski Mark , Naggie Susanna , Martin Ross , Mo Hongmei , Maiorova Evguenia , Wyles David
Published: December 2024

Background

Simplified approaches to hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment delivery are needed to meet elimination goals. However, the impact of low-touch strategies on individuals at higher risk due to treatment failure or reinfection is unknown. We estimated HCV reinfection rates, and the impact of resistance associated substitutions (RASs) on response in the ACTG A5360 (MINMON) trial.

Methods

HCV RNA evaluations were scheduled at weeks 0, 24 (sustained viral response [SVR] visit), 48, and 72. Participants with post-entry HCV RNA ≥ lower limit of quantification (LLoQ) had deep sequencing of NS5A and NS5B genes performed. Phylogenetic analysis distinguished between reinfection and treatment failure. Reinfection rates per 100 person-years (PYS) were calculated with 95% confidence interval (CI) constructed using Poisson distribution.

Results

Of 397 participants with post-entry HCV RNA, 29 had ≥LLoQ and available sequencing data. Of those 29, 5 participants initially designated as non-SVR, and 12 participants initially attaining SVR (evaluated at week 24) were determined to have reinfections (total 17 reinfections) (reinfection rate 3.9/100 PYS [95% CI, 2.4–6.2]). All 17 participants with HCV reinfection were male (13 MSM and 15 with HIV). Of 29 had ≥LLoQ, 12 were identified as treatment failure. SVR (excluding reinfections) in presence and absence of baseline RAS was 93.5% (43/46) and 97% (337/346), respectively, with an overall SVR rate of 97.0% [95% CI, 94.8–98.3] (385/397).

Conclusions

Accounting for reinfections, SVR in MINMON was 97.0% further supporting simplified HCV treatment. No significant difference in SVR was found by baseline velpatasvir RAS. The high reinfection rate, especially among men who have sex with men (MSM) with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), underscores the need to scale-up evidence-based interventions to reduce reinfection.

Clinical Trials Registration

NCT03512210
Ecological patterns of plant–pollinator interactions in the Palouse Prairie
Authors: Hawse Anna , Cook Stephen P
Published: December 2024

Insect pollinators are essential for natural ecosystems. Without pollination, native plants are less likely to be able to persist. As natural ecosystems have become more fragmented and degraded, interest in their restoration and preservation has increased. Understanding the roles that individual plant and pollinator species play in an ecosystem can assist with these tasks. One way to examine the ecological drivers for patterns of pollination is through module analysis. The Palouse Prairie is a fragmented native prairie that supports high plant and insect diversity and has experienced severe habitat loss. Bees were collected on native plants in prairie fragments in 2022 and 2023 to construct a plant–pollinator network. From this network, modules were computed and analyzed. This network contained 10 modules representing multiple different ecological patterns, including modules grouped by morphological, taxonomic, and phenological similarities. These modules also identified plant–pollinator pairs with specialized relationships. The network was then analyzed to identify plant and insect members that play structural roles in the network. Understanding the patterns of interactions represented in the modules and the network structure may allow for better conservation and restoration of this imperiled ecosystem.
Taking Action to Support Nursing Home Resident Well-Being: Perspectives of U.S. Nursing Home Staff During COVID-19
Authors: Quigley Denise D , Chastain Ashley M , Ma Hsin S , Pogorzelska-Maziarz Monika , Stone Patricia W
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) negatively influenced resident well-being in nursing homes (NHs). We examine perceptions and experiences of U.S. NH staff during the COVID-19 pandemic regarding resident well-being.

Research Design and Methods

We sampled 68 NHs (out of 13,423) in strata defined by quality ratings, urban/rural location, and whether they served a resident population of <70% White. We enrolled 10 NHs and interviewed 11 nursing staff (8 certified nursing assistants/aides, 3 registered or licensed practical/vocational nurses), 12 managerial staff (4 administrators, 8 directors of nursing), and 5 infection preventionists. Thematic analysis identified themes related to challenges of quarantine/isolation, attempted solutions, and lessons learned concerning resident well-being.

Results

Nursing home managerial, infection prevention, and nursing staff described how COVID-19 policies contributed to increased resident loneliness and declines in physical and cognitive well-being. Solutions/strategies employed across the United States and in low- and high-quality NHs included proactive mental health support, resident-centered family visitation, increased communication and care planning with families and efforts to maintain resident normalcy.

Discussion and Implications

Strategies to mitigate and alleviate concerns with resident well-being were both structural and made via staff choices. NH leadership needs to proactively plan how to adapt processes and structures that prioritize resident well-being along with resident care in times of crisis. Research is needed to outline the planning, implementation, and recommendations required to operationalize these strategies into practice. Determining the most effective ways to implement these structural changes within NH practices and workflows is critical to ensure that staff have sufficient time to spend with residents.
Pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic analysis of sulbactam against Acinetobacter baumannii pneumonia: establishing in vivo efficacy targets in the epithelial lining fluid
Authors: Abouelhassan Yasmeen , Kuti Joseph L , Nicolau David P , Abdelraouf Kamilia
Published: December 2024

Background

Sulbactam is an effective therapy for Acinetobacter baumannii infections. Previous sulbactam pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (PK/PD) analyses established exposure efficacy targets in plasma against A. baumannii pneumonia. Herein, we established sulbactam efficacy targets in epithelial lining fluid (ELF). The PTA following clinical sulbactam regimens was estimated.

Methods

Sulbactam (dosed as ampicillin-sulbactam) bronchopulmonary PK was assessed in the neutropenic murine pneumonia model. The percentage of the dosing interval during which the free drug concentration remained above the MIC (%fT > MIC) required to achieve different efficacy endpoints was estimated in 21 clinical A. baumannii isolates. PTA was assessed using Monte Carlo Simulations and utilizing previously published healthy volunteers sulbactam ELF pharmacokinetics.

Results

Median (IQR) %fT > MIC required to achieve 1-log kill in isolates resistant to both sulbactam and meropenem was 47.51 (39.7–54.2). This target was much higher than isolates with other phenotypes (i.e. sulbactam-susceptible/intermediate and sulbactam-resistant but meropenem susceptible) that required 16.62 (5.3–22.0). The PTA following sulbactam 1 g q6h 0.5h infusion regimen was >90% up to MIC of 2 mg/L while the PTA for MIC 4 mg/L (susceptibility breakpoint) was 81%. Conversely, previous assessment in plasma demonstrated the same regimen exceeded 90% PTA up to MIC of 4 mg/L. Sulbactam 3 g q8h 4h infusion provided PTA >90% for MIC 8 mg/L (sulbactam-intermediate), similar to previous assessment in plasma.

Conclusion

Based on the ELF assessment, the maximum FDA approved dose of sulbactam (1 g q6h 0.5h infusion) provided >90% PTA for isolates with sulbactam MIC only up to 2 mg/L. Nevertheless, sulbactam 3 g q8h for 4 hours of infusion achieved higher PTA and conferred additional benefit against sulbactam-susceptible/intermediate isolates.
An Ancient Arabian War (ḥarb al-Basūs) as Reflected in Classical Arabic Poetry
Authors: Hussein Ali Ahmad
Published: December 2024

The war of al-Basūs is among the most renowned wars of pre-Islamic Arabia. It was said to have been fought between two sister-tribes, and to have lasted allegedly for forty years. Its story, especially since the eighteenth century ce, became rich material that nurtured epic and non-epic literary works. This article examines the influence of that war on early Arabic poetry, based on every reference in a corpus of some 27,000 poems, dating from the pre-Islamic era to the fifteenth century. The verses are identified using the Rhetorical Element Identifier database (REI), a web-based tool developed by Ali Ahmad Hussein et al. It considers how the theme of the war developed and compares the mark it made on the earlier poetry with its significant imprint on modern and pre-modern Arabic literature. The main conclusion is that the influence and/or importance of the war in the classical period differed from that of later times. It seems that in this early period it was no more than a local incident, its importance restricted to those involved, and its influence on the wider Arabian community minimal. This study emphasizes the hypothesis that a significant portion of this war is embedded in Arab folklore rather than Arab history.
Initial treatment and resource utilization among patients with metastatic-castration sensitive prostate cancer in Japan: a retrospective real-world study
Authors: Kimura Takahiro , Ito Takuma , Taguchi Tomoyuki , Hattori Kana , Matsuyama Rei
Published: December 2024

Objectives

The introduction of novel drugs for metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer has expanded treatment options for patients. Associated changes in healthcare resource utilization may have occurred in tandem, but nationwide information is limited. This study aimed to describe initial treatment patterns and healthcare resource utilization (including costs) for patients with metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer in routine clinical practice in Japan.

Methods

This retrospective, longitudinal cohort study used a large-scale claims database covering acute care hospitals of various sizes. Included were men who received first medical treatment for metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer between January 2015 and July 2021 (identification period). The primary endpoint was the initial treatment pattern for metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer.

Results

Among 7665 men with metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer, the median (Q1, Q3) duration of first-line therapy was 8.2 (3.4, 17.3) months. During the overall period between 2015 and 2021, the most common initial pharmacotherapy (88.1% of treatment regimens) was ‘combined androgen blockade or androgen deprivation therapy only or first-generation anti-androgen only’. Use of androgen receptor signaling inhibitors increased following their introduction in 2018, reaching 26.6% of treatments started in 2021 (abiraterone + androgen deprivation therapy 9.4%, apalutamide + androgen deprivation therapy 9.2%, enzalutamide + androgen deprivation therapy 8.0%). Median total healthcare-related cost per person-year was JPY 244 479, with metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer drugs accounting for approximately one-third of the cost (JPY 396 620).

Conclusions

Since androgen receptor signaling inhibitors were introduced, treatment patterns in patients with metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer in Japan have shifted, with an increased trend toward prescription of these agents. However, the most frequently used regimen for first-line treatment continues to be ‘combined androgen blockade or androgen deprivation therapy only or first-generation anti-androgen only’.
Clinical outcomes of patients with EGFR-mutated NSCLC developing interstitial lung disease during first-line osimertinib therapy: a sub-analysis of the Reiwa study
Authors: Kobayashi Takayuki , Watanabe Kageaki , Hosomi Yukio , Yoh Kiyotaka , Usui Kazuhiro , Kishi Kazuma , Naka Go , Tamano Shu , Uemura Kohei , Kunitoh Hideo
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Osimertinib-induced interstitial lung disease in untreated EGFR-mutated, advanced non-small cell lung cancer is being reported at a higher rate in Japan than elsewhere. However, data on the interstitial lung disease incidence during first-line osimertinib therapy and the course of lung cancer treatments administered after interstitial lung disease onset in the real-world setting are scarce.

Materials and Methods

The present study reviewed the data from the Reiwa study, a multicentric, observational study examining the efficacy and safety of first-line osimertinib therapy in the clinical setting. Patients with EGFR-mutated non-small cell lung cancer who began osimertinib therapy between September 2018 and August 2020 were enrolled and followed until August 2022.

Results

Among 583 patients receiving first-line osimertinib therapy, 75 (12.8%) had interstitial lung disease development, and 18 (3.0%) had at least grade 3 interstitial lung disease. Fifty-nine patients (78%) received some form of treatment following interstitial lung disease onset. An epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitor rechallenge was performed in 31 patients (41%), with 18 (24%) receiving osimertinib again. Interstitial lung disease recurred in five (28%) of these 18 patients, none of 13 patients receiving another type of tyrosine kinase inhibitor, and seven (25%) of 28 patients receiving chemotherapy and/or immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy. The median overall survival after the initial osimertinib therapy was 38.4 months and 12.2 months for patients with interstitial lung disease grade 1–2 and grade 3–4, respectively (hazard ratio: 0.37; 95% confidence interval: 0.20–0.70; P = 0.002).

Conclusion

Patients with interstitial lung disease grade 3–4 had poorer survival during the first-line osimertinib therapy. A substantial risk of interstitial lung disease recurrence was associated with post-osimertinib therapy.

Trial registration code: UMIN000038683.
A Provincial Mathematician and Friend of Isaac Newton: St John Hare and His Books
Authors: Feingold Mordechai
Published: December 2024

This note attempts to shed light on the intellectual landscape of St John Hare, a provincial squire, who practised law while engaging in scientific pursuits, which brought him into the orbit of Isaac Newton. Also included is a catalogue of a portion of Hare’s library, found in a newly identified commonplace book.
Engineer the ocean to absorb more carbon: the ocean negative carbon emissions (ONCE) program
Authors: Zhao Weijie
Published: December 2024

The Global ONCE program aims to alleviate the climate crisis by geoengineering the ocean to absorb and store more carbon.
Association Between the Need to Change Initial Antifungal Therapy and Treatment Costs in Patients With Invasive Aspergillosis
Authors: Alexander Barbara D , Johnson Melissa , Bresnik Mark , Anupindi Vamshi Ruthwik , Pizzicato Lia , DeKoven Mitchell , Lovelace Belinda , Coleman Craig I
Published: December 2024

Background

Early antifungal initiation in invasive aspergillosis (IA) is recommended. Changing antifungals occurs for a myriad of reasons but associated costs are unclear.

Methods

US claims data for adults admitted for IA were identified from 10/1/2015 to 11/30/2022. Patients were stratified by those who did and did not change antifungal therapy. Adjusted all-cause healthcare utilization and costs/patient during index hospitalization and at 1, 6, and 12-months after the index date between the cohorts that did and did not change antifungal therapy were compared.

Results

Among 1,192 IA patients, 707 (59.3%) changed their initial antifungal therapy over follow-up. The index hospital length of stay was longer (Δ = 6 days, P < .001) and costs were higher (Δ = $65,149, P < .001) in the change vs. no change cohort. Median 1, 6, and 12-months all-cause costs were higher in patients changing antifungal therapy vs. not (Δ = $90,938−$192,953).

Conclusions

Changing antifungals was associated with longer hospital stays and costs and higher all-cause costs over 12-months.
CALMODULIN-BINDING RECEPTOR-LIKE CYTOPLASMIC KINASE 3 regulates salt tolerance through CATALASE 2 in Arabidopsis
Authors: Zhuang Yufen , Zhang Yiyi , Shi Haifan , Pang Yanan , Feng Xixian , Fan Wenjuan , Chang Dan , Lin Honghui , Zhou Huapeng
Published: December 2024

Soil salinization threatens global crop production. Here, we report that a receptor-like cytoplasmic kinase, CALMODULIN-BINDING RECEPTOR-LIKE CYTOPLASMIC KINASE 3 (CRCK3), plays an essential role in plant salt tolerance via CATALASE 2 (CAT2), a hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-scavenging enzyme in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). CRCK3 was induced by salt stress, and its knockout mutant displayed a salt-sensitive phenotype compared with wild-type plants. CRCK3 was activated by salt stress in a calcium-dependent manner, and its kinase activity was required for plant salt tolerance. CRCK3 physically interacted with CAT2, and CRCK3-mediated salt tolerance depended on CAT2. Salt treatment significantly induced CAT2 phosphorylation via the action of CRCK3, and this phosphorylation was required for CAT2-mediated H2O2 scavenging to reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS) content and oxidative damage in plants under saline conditions. CRCK3 phosphorylated CAT2 at the Thr209 residue, resulting in elevated catalase activity to reduce ROS accumulation under saline conditions. Therefore, the CRCK3-CAT2 module mediates plant salt tolerance by maintaining redox homeostasis. This study expands our knowledge of how plants respond to salt stress.