bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metabolic evaluation guidelines in patients with nephrolithiasis: Are they being followed? Results of a national, multi-institutional, quality-assessment study
Authors: Harmouch Sabrina S. , Abou-Haidar Hiba , ElHawary Hassan , Grgic Thomas , Lantz Andrea G. , Lee Jason Y. , Chew Ben H. , Andonian Sero , Bhojani Naeem
Published: May 2018

Introduction: The significant cost burden of kidney stones underscores the importance of best clinical practice in kidney stone management. We evaluated adherence to kidney stone metabolic evaluation guidelines in a Canadian population and the interest of patients with regard to prevention.Methods: A questionnaire based on Canadian Urological Association (CUA) best practice guidelines was designed. Patients presenting for extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy treatment (ESWL) were administered this questionnaire to evaluate risk factors of stone disease and assess the use of metabolic evaluations. Patients were asked if they received explanations about their results and if they were interested in kidney stone prevention.Results: We identified 530 patients at five academic institutions; 79.4% had at least one indication to receive a metabolic evaluation (high-risk stone formers), which increased to 96.6% if first-time stone formers whom reported an interest in metabolic evaluation were included. However, only 41.1 % of these patients had a metabolic evaluation. Endourologists ordered metabolic evaluation more often than other referring urologists (63.6% vs. 36.5%; p<0.001). Furthermore, urologists ordered metabolic evaluations more often than other prescribing physicians (68.9% vs. 31.1%; p<0.001). Sixtytwo percent of patients received explanations about their metabolic evaluation results and 77.5% understood them. Regarding prevention, 84.1% and 83.8% were interested in more explanations and in following a diet or taking a medication, respectively.Conclusions: Adherence to CUA metabolic evaluation guidelines is suboptimal and could be improved by urologists referring patients for ESWL. Communication between physician and patient may not be adequate. The majority of stone formers are interested in kidney stone prevention.
Facilitation of Social Support for Expectant Students in South Africa: A Concept Analysis
Authors: Matlala Sogo
Published: May 2018

The objective was to analyse ‘facilitation of social support’ to contribute to its understanding. This followed data analysis of a qualitative study on experiences of expectant students, their close relatives and educators on facilitation of social support to expectant students. Dictionary and subject definitions were used to make it clear. A model case was constructed to illustrate its use. Antecedents and consequences were identified. Its implementation may end in regular antenatal care attendance where professional nurses provide personalized care by communicating with expectant students, their close relatives and educators to enable their retention in school and ultimately giving birth to healthy babies.
Access to Emergency Medical Services: An Urban Planning Methodology for the Generation of Equity
Authors: Holguin Juan , Escobar Diego , Moncada Carlos
Published: May 2018

The access and possibility of rapid response to medical emergencies is an issue that, in last decades, has been studied in many areas of research such as urban planning and transportation, as well as with the issue of equity in the provision of this healthcare service. This is true, in particular for middle- and low-income countries subject to non-equitative access to services such as medical emergency attention. In this study, a medical emergency database review is carried out in order to propose a new methodology to assess the coverage of Ambulance Dispatches and Emergency Service Facilities. This is executed using primary information relating to medical emergencies that occurred in the city of Manizales between 2010 and 2015 and secondary data relating to socio-demographic and economic conditions, analyzing their correlation using a GIS (Geographic Information System) application. This research article proposes a methodology for improving the population coverage of Ambulance Dispatches and Emergency Service Facilities, trying to reduce health inequity in terms of assistance to medical emergencies. Our results show that in order to reduce social and health inequity, the city of Manizales needs to improve its provision of emergency care attention, based on urban planning tools especially in low-income neighborhoods.
Implications of Disagreement Between Self-Reporting and Objective Measures: A Scoping Review
Authors: Al Shamsi Hilal , Almutairi Abdullah Ghthaith , Al Mashrafi Sulaiman Salim
Published: May 2018

INTRODUCTION: Researchers and health specialists generally collect data and information about chronic diseases from self-reports. However, the accuracy of self-reports has been questioned as they depend on the respondents' ability to recall information and their understanding of pathological conditions. Therefore, an objective diagnosis is usually regarded as a more accurate indication of the presence of diseases.OBJECTIVE: A scoping review will examine the extent of the disagreement between self- reports and objective measures, focusing on the implications of this disagreement in terms of indicators of physical and emotional health as well provision and planning of health services.METHOD: There are few publications on the impact of disagreements between self-reporting and objective measures. In this case, a scoping review was chosen as an efficient tool to explore the issue, due to the limited amount of available evidence. This review was conducted in two major research databases: Scopus and Medline databases. The criteria of the study included all genders, age groups, and geographic areas. The source of information for the scoping review included existing literature such as guidelines, letters, meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and primary research studies.RESULT: In the 12 studies, the total participants were 155,939 and each study’s sample size ranged from 77 to 118,553. Four out of twelve studies showed a significant difference between self-reported ailments and objective diagnosis for (kappa=0.17 to 0.3), whereas the agreement was moderate for the utilization of health services and quality of ambulatory care (kappa=0.43 to 0.5), however, the agreement on whether counselling and referrals were needed was low (kappa= 0.3, 95% CI [0.3-0.3]). The disagreements between self-report and objective measures had implications regarding prevalence of diseases (20% less by self-reported) or risk factors (such as physical activity [PA]), costs of treatments (15 EUR high by reports), risk factors such as car accidents for elderly (useful field of view in elderly drivers was a risk over four times larger than obtained from self-reported [OR= 13.7 vs OR=3.4]), and utilization of health services (34.1% higher by reported).CONCLUSION: In most health domains, we found there was low to moderate disagreement between self-reporting and objective measures for diagnosing illnesses and utilization of health services.  The prevalence of disease was lower when self-reported, while the utilization of health services and cost of health services were higher when self-reported than when objectively measured. This disagreement has implications regarding the increasing the cost of health services and provides a misleading basis for health planning.
Empirical Research on Relationship between College Students’ Social Identity and Online learning Performance: A case Study of Guangdong Province
Authors: Zhu Mingfang , Qi Wang
Published: May 2018

From “God’s favored person” to “ordinary worker”, college students become indifferent to life and addicted to web gaming because they face a rapid devaluation of college student identity in China. At the same time, MOOC and other online learning resources are bringing students better personal learning environment and requiring the students to be more self-disciplined and self-educated oriented. Correlation was found among academic performance, life satisfaction and personal identity. The relationship between students’ online learning performance, life satisfaction and social identity has become a key issue for the Chinese educators and academic institutions. This paper investigates college student’s social identity and identify how online learning performance influences their life satisfaction and social identity based on 490 questionnaires using Jonathan M. Cheek relational identity orientation scale for the AIQ. The results suggest that the demographic feature of students has different influence on their social identity, and the effect of online learning performance and life satisfaction on social identity shows a significant difference. Besides, implications for improving college students’ social identity are also discussed.
A new interpretation of the modern two-pronged tests for insanity
Authors: Bijlsma Johannes
Published: May 2018

A new interpretation of the modern two-pronged tests for insanity

Michael Moore has argued that modern two-pronged tests for legal insanity are wrongheaded and that the insanity defense instead should be a ‘status defense’. If Moore is right, than the laws on insanity in most legal systems are wrong. This merits a critical examination of Moore’s critique and his alternative approach. In this paper I argue that Moore’s status approach to insanity is either under- or overinclusive. A new interpretation of the modern tests for insanity is elaborated that hinges on the existence of a legally relevant difference between the mentally disordered defendant and the ‘normal’ defendant. This interpretation avoids Moore’s criticism as well as the pitfalls of the status approach.
The substance of citizenship: is it rights all the way down?
Authors: Raucea Chiara
Published: May 2018

The substance of citizenship: is it rights all the way down?

This paper examines how the distribution of social goods within a political community relates to decisions on membership boundaries. The author challenges two renowned accounts of such a relation: firstly, Walzer’s account according to which decisions on membership boundaries necessarily precede decisions on distribution; secondly, Benhabib’s account, according to which membership boundaries can be called into question on the basis of universalist claims. Departing from both accounts, the author concludes that actual changes in the pool of participants in practices of creation and exchange of social goods pressure a political community to redefine its distributive patterns and, accordingly, the boundaries of its formal political membership. This claim will be supported by the analysis of threshold cases decided by the EU Court of Justice, in which EU citizenship is invoked with the atypical purpose of granting rights to a specific group of non-formal members.
Peptide retention time prediction for immobilized artificial membrane phosphatidylcholine stationary phase: method development and preliminary observations
Authors: Gussakovsky Daniel , Neustaeter Haley , Spicer Victor , Krokhine Oleg
Published: May 2018

Development of the first peptide retention prediction model for immobilized artificial membrane phosphatidylcholine (IAM.PC) stationary phase is reported. 2D LC-MS/MS analysis of a whole cell lysate of S. cerevisiae yielded a retention dataset of ~29,500 tryptic peptides; sufficient for confident assignment of retention coefficients which determine the contribution of individual amino acids in peptide retention. Retention data from the first dimension was used for the modeling: IAM.PC DD2 column, pH 7.4 ammonium bicarbonate, and water/acetonitrile gradient. Peptide separation using IAM.PC was compared to a standard C18 phase (Luna C18(2)). There was a significant reduction in peptide retention (~14% acetonitrile on average), indicating that the phosphatidylcholine stationary phase is significantly more hydrophilic. In comparison to the C18 phase, we found a substantial increase in the relative retention contribution for the positively charged Arg and Lys, and the aromatic Tyr, Trp and His residues. We also observed a decrease in retention contribution for the negatively charged Asp and Glu. This indicates an involvement of electrostatic interactions with the glycerophosphate functional groups, and possibly, delocalization effects from a hydrogen bond between the phosphate group and aromatic side chains in the separation mechanism.
Performance Testing of Hydraulic Cements: Measuring Sulfate Resistance
Authors: Ferraris Chiara F. , Stutzman Paul E. , Peltz Max
Published: May 2018

The sulfate resistance of cements used in the construction industry is
traditionally assessed by measuring the expansion of a prism of 280 mm (11inch) length
and 25 mm (1 inch) square cross section immersed in a sodium sulfate solution for at
least one year. The duration of the experiment limits this test from being used as a
performance-based determination of innovative mixtures of cementitious materials. In
response to the need for a more rapid test protocol, the National Institute of Standards
and Technology (NIST) has developed a new test method that measures the expansion of
smaller bars (10 mm x 10 mm x 60 mm) made with neat cement paste. With these bars,
similar expansion is achieved in less than 3 months, reducing the test duration by a
factor of at least 4. This accelerated test method provides more rapid results
consistent with the traditional test procedure, allowing for a shorter decision time and
the screening of more materials.
Dose dependent anti-obesity effect of three different Lactobacillus sakei strains using a diet induced obese murine model
Authors: Ji Yosep , Chung Young Mee , Park Soyoung , Jeong Dahye , Kim Bongjoon , Holzapfel Wilhelm Heinrich
Published: May 2018

Overweight and obesity are considered as a major cause of various conditions related to metabolic syndrome. Yet, considering the complex interacting factors leading to pathogenicity and underlying mechanisms, it remains a poorly defined area. Some probiotics have a reputation of a relatively long history of safe use, and an increasing number of studies are confirming benefits including anti-obesity effects when administered in adequate amounts. Recent reports demonstrate that probiotic functions may widely differ with reference to either intra-species or inter-species related data. Such differences do not necessarily reflect or explain strain specific functions of a probiotic, and thus require further assessment at the intra-species level. Various anti-obesity clinical trials with probiotics have shown discrepant results and require more consolidated studies in order to clarify the correct dose of application for reliable and constant efficacy over a long period. In this study three different strains of Lactobacillus sakei were administered in a high fat diet induced obese murine model using three different doses, 1x1010 CFU, 1x109 CFU and 1x108 CFU, respectively, per day. Changes in body and organ weight were monitored, and serum chemistry analysis was performed for monitoring obesity associated biomarkers. The results show that only one strain of L. sakei (CJLS03) induced a dose dependent anti-obesity effect, while no correlation with either dose or body and adipose tissue weight loss could be detected for the other two L. sakei strains (L338 and L446). The body weight reduction mainly correlated with adipose tissue and obesity associated serum biomarkers such as triglycerides. This study suggests that anti-obesity effects of probiotics may vary in a strain and dose specific manner.
Modulation of formin processivity by profilin and mechanical tension
Authors: Cao Luyan , Kerleau Mikael , Suzuki Emiko L. , Wioland Hugo , Jouet Sandy , Guichard Berengere , Lenz Martin , Romet-Lemonne Guillaume , Jegou Antoine
Published: May 2018

Formins are major regulators of actin networks. They enhance actin filament dynamics by remaining processively bound to filament barbed ends. How biochemical and mechanical factors affect formin processivity are open questions. Monitoring individual actin filaments in a microfluidic flow, we report that formins mDia1 and mDia2 dissociate faster under higher ionic strength and when actin concentration is increased. Profilin, known to increase the elongation rate of formin-associated filaments, surprisingly decreases the formin dissociation rate, by bringing formin FH1 domains in transient contact with the barbed end. In contrast, piconewton tensile forces applied to actin filaments accelerate formin dissociation by orders of magnitude, largely overcoming profilin-mediated stabilization. We developed a model of formin conformations showing that our data indicates the existence of two different dissociation pathways, with force favoring one over the other. How cells limit formin dissociation under tension is now a key question for future studies.
The influence of temperature and photoperiod on the timing of brood onset in hibernating honey bee colonies
Authors: Nürnberger Fabian , Härtel Stephan , Steffan-Dewenter Ingolf
Published: May 2018

In order to save resources, honey bee (Apis mellifera) colonies in the temperate zones stop brood rearing during winter. Brood rearing is resumed in late winter to build up a sufficient worker force that allows to exploit floral resources in upcoming spring. The timing of brood onset in hibernating colonies is crucial and a premature brood onset could lead to an early depletion of energy reservoirs. However, the mechanisms underlying the timing of brood onset and potential risks of mistiming in the course of ongoing climate change are not well understood. To assess the relative importance of ambient temperature and photoperiod as potential regulating factors for brood rearing activity in hibernating colonies, we overwintered 24 honey bee colonies within environmental chambers. The colonies were assigned to two different temperature treatments and three different photoperiod treatments to disentangle the individual and interacting effects of temperature and photoperiod. Tracking in-hive temperature as indicator for brood rearing activity revealed that increasing ambient temperature triggered brood onset. Under cold conditions, photoperiod alone did not affect brood onset, but the light regime altered the impact of higher ambient temperature on brood rearing activity. Further the number of brood rearing colonies increased with elapsed time which suggests the involvement of an internal clock. We conclude that timing of brood onset in late winter is mainly driven by temperature but modulated by photoperiod. Climate warming might change the interplay of these factors and result in mismatches of brood phenology and environmental conditions.
Feeding behavior and trophic interaction of three shark species in the Galapagos Marine Reserve
Authors: Páez-Rosas Diego , Insuasti-Zarate Paul , Riofrío-Lazo Marjorie , Galván-Magaña Felipe
Published: May 2018

There is great concern about the future of sharks in Ecuador because of the lack of biological knowledge of most species that inhabit the region. This paper analyzes the feeding behavior of the pelagic thresher shark (Alopias pelagicus), the blue shark (Prionace glauca) and the silky shark (Carcharhinus falciformis) through the use of stable isotopes of carbon and nitrogen (δ13C and δ15N), with the aim of determining the degree of interaction between these species in the Galapagos Marine Reserve. No interspecific differences were found in use of oceanic vs. inshore feeding areas (δ13C: Kruskal–Wallis test, p = 0.09). The position in the hierarchy of the food web where A. pelagicus feeds differed from that of the other species (δ15N: Kruskal–Wallis test, p = 0.01). There were no significant differences in δ13C and δ15N values between males and females of the three species (Student’s t-test, p > 0.05), which suggests that both sexes have a similar feeding behavior. A specialist strategy was observed in P. glauca (trophic niche breadth TNB = 0.69), while the other species were found to be generalist (A. pelagicus TNB = 1.50 and C. falciformis TNB = 1.09). The estimated trophic level (TL) varied between the three species. C. falciformis occupied the highest trophic level (TL = 4.4), making it a quaternary predator in the region. The results of this study coincide with the identified behavior in these predators in other areas of the tropical Pacific (Colombia and Mexico), and suggest a pelagic foraging strategy with differential consumption of prey between the three species. These ecological aspects can provide timely information when implementing in conservation measures for these shark species in the Tropical Pacific and Galapagos Marine Reserve.
Shelters can negatively affect growth and welfare in lumpfish if feed is delivered continuously
Authors: Johannesen Asa , Joensen Nakita E. , Magnussen Eyðfinn
Published: May 2018

Due to the socioeconomic importance of salmon farming in the North Atlantic and the economic impact of sea lice in this industry, there is high demand for novel pest control methods. One such method is the use of cleaner fish to remove the lice from the salmon. A cleaner fish that has recently gained in popularity due to its ability to work in cold water, is the lumpfish (Cyclopterus lumpus). This fish varies in efficiency, but when mortality is low and cleaning optimal, the fish are successful in keeping parasite burdens low. However, there is some concern for the welfare of lumpfish in the industry, because mortality is often high. This is sometimes attributed to inadequate feeding and shelter. Here we compare growth, body condition, and fin health of fish reared for four weeks in a crossed treatment design crossing shelter availability (shelter vs none) and feed delivery method (manual meal time feeds and continuous automated feeding). In terms of weight gain, shelter availability interacted with feeding method, with fish that had access to shelters and were fed using automated feeders gaining less weight than other fish. Fin health was not affected, but body condition was lowered both by access to shelter and being fed continuously. The results indicate a need to carefully consider how feeding method and shelter use is combined, both in cages and during rearing on land.
Selective constraint acting on TLR2 and TLR4 genes of JapaneseRanafrogs
Authors: Lau Quintin , Igawa Takeshi , Kosch Tiffany A. , Satta Yoko
Published: May 2018

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are an important component of innate immunity, the first line of pathogen defence. One of the major roles of TLRs includes recognition of pathogen-associated molecular patterns. Amphibians are currently facing population declines and even extinction due to chytridiomycosis caused by theBatrachochytrium dendrobatidis(Bd) fungus. Evidence from other vertebrates shows that TLR2 and TLR4 are involved in innate immunity against various fungi. Such genes therefore may play a functional role in amphibian-chytridiomycosis dynamics. Frogs from East Asia appear to be tolerant to Bd, so we examined the genetic diversity that underlies TLR2 and TLR4 from three Japanese Ranidae frog species,Rana japonica,R. ornativentrisandR. tagoi tagoi(n = 5 per species). We isolated 27 TLR2 and 20 TLR4 alleles and found that these genes are evolutionarily conserved, with overall evidence supporting purifying selection. In contrast, site-by-site analysis of selection identified several specific codon sites under positive selection, some of which were located in the variable leucine rich repeat domains. In addition, preliminary expression levels of TLR2 and TLR4 from transcriptome data showed overall low expression. Although it remains unclear whether infectious pathogens are a selective force acting on TLRs of Japanese frogs, our results support that certain sites in TLRs of these species may have experienced pathogen-mediated selection.
Allocation pattern and accumulation potential of carbon stock in natural spruce forests in northwest China
Authors: Yue Jun-Wei , Guan Jin-Hong , Deng Lei , Zhang Jian-Guo , Li Guoqing , Du Sheng
Published: May 2018

Background

The spruce forests are dominant communities in northwest China, and play a key role in national carbon budgets. However, the patterns of carbon stock distribution and accumulation potential across stand ages are poorly documented.

Methods

We investigated the carbon stocks in biomass and soil in the natural spruce forests in the region by surveys on 39 plots. Biomass of tree components were estimated using allometric equations previously established based on tree height and diameter at breast height, while biomass in understory (shrub and herb) and forest floor were determined by total harvesting method. Fine root biomass was estimated by soil coring technique. Carbon stocks in various biomass components and soil (0–100 cm) were estimated by analyzing the carbon content of each component.

Results

The results showed that carbon stock in these forest ecosystems can be as high as 510.1 t ha−1, with an average of 449.4 t ha−1. Carbon stock ranged from 28.1 to 93.9 t ha−1 and from 0.6 to 8.7 t ha−1 with stand ages in trees and deadwoods, respectively. The proportion of shrubs, herbs, fine roots, litter and deadwoods ranged from 0.1% to 1% of the total ecosystem carbon, and was age-independent. Fine roots and deadwood which contribute to about 2% of the biomass carbon should be attached considerable weight in the investigation of natural forests. Soil carbon stock did not show a changing trend with stand age, ranging from 254.2 to 420.0 t ha−1 with an average of 358.7 t ha−1. The average value of carbon sequestration potential for these forests was estimated as 29.4 t ha−1, with the lower aged ones being the dominant contributor. The maximum carbon sequestration rate was 2.47 t ha−1 year−1 appearing in the growth stage of 37–56 years.

Conclusion

The carbon stock in biomass was the major contributor to the increment of carbon stock in ecosystems. Stand age is not a good predictor of soil carbon stocks and accurate evaluation of the soil carbon dynamics thus requires long-term monitoring in situ. The results not only revealed carbon stock status and dynamics in these natural forests but were helpful to understand the role of Natural Forest Protection project in forest carbon sequestration as well.
SPIRODELA POLYRHIZA NA FITORREMEDIAÇÃO E PÓS-TRATAMENTO DE EFLUENTE DOMÉSTICO
Authors: Schiller Andréia Da Paz , Schwantes Daniel , Gonçalves Jr. Affonso Celso , Manfrin Jéssica , Campagnolo Marcelo Ângelo , Dullius Thaisa , Dullius Thaisa , Aleixo Valdemir , Richart Alfredo , Tejada Eduardo Souza
Published: May 2018

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a eficiência do pós-tratamento de efluente doméstico por meio do cultivo da macrófita aquática Spirodela polyrhiza. O volume de 250 L de efluente previamente tratado foi colocado em um reator de polietileno com 1,05 m de diâmetro no qual as macrófitas permaneceram pelo período de 42 dias. Determinou-se os teores de Ca, Mg, Cu, Zn, Fe, Cd e Pb no efluente e nos tecidos da macrófita a cada 7 dias. Observou-se remoções máximas de 4, 20 e 47% para K, Ca e Mg respectivamente. Micronutrientes não foram detectados no efluente, entretanto observou-se a diluição dos teores iniciais desses elementos nos tecidos da própria planta durante o experimento. As concentrações de Fe, Pb e Cd oscilaram no efluente durante o tempo de detenção hidráulica, possivelmente em função da senescência de algumas plantas que devolvem ao meio aquoso os elementos anteriormente absorvidos. No geral a Spirodela polyrhiza se demonstrou eficiente no pós-tratamento do efluente doméstico utilizado, pois as plantas absorveram altos níveis de nutrientes. No entanto, no Brasil estudos com essa espécie aquática são escassos, por isso, mais estudos com essa macrófita, são necessários.
A importância da pós-graduação na produção do conhecimento científico
Authors: De Araújo Roberto Paulo Correia
Published: May 2018

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Uma Instituição de Ensino Superior deve definir no seu planejamento estratégico a adoção de políticas que valorizem a qualificação acadêmica e pedagógica do seu corpo docente viabilizando de forma consistente a adequada formação de seus futuros egressos, particularmente em se tratando da pós-graduação stricto sesu...
When Dysuria Is More Than Just a Urinary Tract Infection
Authors: Foster Jennifer A. , Freeland Deborah , Mauskar Melissa M.
Published: November 2024

This Teachable Moment describes a 66-year-old woman with mild dysuria, vulvar discomfort, and recurrent urinary tract infections.
Beyond a constant proton relative biological effectiveness: A survey of clinical and research perspectives among proton institutions in Europe and the United States
Authors: Ödén Jakob , Eriksson Kjell , Kaushik Suryakant , Traneus Erik
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Although proton relative biological effectiveness (RBE) depends on factors like linear energy transfer (LET), tissue properties, dose, and biological endpoint, a constant RBE of 1.1 is recommended in clinical practice. This study surveys proton institutions to explore activities using functionalities beyond a constant proton RBE.

Methods

Research versions of RayStation integrate functionalities considering variable proton RBE, LET, proton track‐ends, and dirty dose. A survey of 19 institutions in Europe and the United States, with these functionalities available, investigated clinical adoption and research prospects using a 25‐question online questionnaire.

Results

Of the 16 institutions that responded (84% response rate), 13 were clinically active. These clinical institutions prescribe RBE = 1.1 but also employ planning strategies centered around special beam arrangements to address potentially enhanced RBE effects in serially structured organs at risk (OARs). Clinical plan evaluation encompassed beam angles/spot position (69%), dose‐averaged LET (LETd) (46%), and variable RBE distributions (38%). High ratings (discrete scale: 1–5) were reported for the research functionalities using linear LETd‐RBE models, LETd, track‐end frequency and dirty dose (averages: 4.0–4.8), while LQ‐based phenomenological RBE models dependent on LETd scored lower for optimization (average: 2.2) but congruent for evaluation (average: 4.1). The institutions preferred LET reported as LETd (94%), computed in unit‐density water (56%), for all protons (63%), and lean toward LETd‐based phenomenological RBE models for clinical use (> 50%).

Conclusions

Proton institutions recognize RBE variability but adhere to a constant RBE while actively mitigating potential enhancements, particularly in serially structured OARs. Research efforts focus on planning techniques that utilize functionalities beyond a constant RBE, emphasizing standardized LET and RBE calculations to facilitate their adoption in clinical practice and improve clinical data collection. LETd calculated in unit‐density water for all protons as input to adaptable phenomenological RBE models was the most suggested approach, aligning with predominant clinical LET and variable RBE reporting.
Cody Nagle: From incarcerated drug user to lawyer
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: November 2024

Cody Nagle, once an intravenous drug user, is now a lawyer. Last week, she talked to ADAW about her trajectory from a drug court in Washington state to an internship at the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP), where she worked in public engagement on issues of substance use disorder (SUD) recovery, to her current position at the Legislative Analysis and Public Policy Association (LAPPA) in Washington, D.C., where she focuses on criminal justice reform and stigma reduction. Nagle was one of the first formerly incarcerated individuals to serve in the Executive Office of the President. A recent graduate of Syracuse University College of Law, Nagle is heading back to Washington state to work as a lawyer, where shewas sworn in to the Washington state bar by the same drug court judge who sentenced her 12 years ago.
Study finds increases in fentanyl and stimulants from SUD patients
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: November 2024

A new report published in JAMA Network Open found striking increases in the amounts of illicit fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine detected in urine drug test (UDT) specimens. The study, led by Andrew Huhn, Ph.D., associate professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences and Kelly Dunn, Ph.D., professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences, both at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, and co‐authored by Millennium Health researchers, showed that concentrations of fentanyl and methamphetamine were 8.3 and 5.2 times higher in these specimens, respectively, in 2023 when compared with 2013 levels. Cocaine concentrations also doubled during this time, while levels for heroin fell by more than half. “Fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine concentrations are higher now relative to any time in the past decade, suggesting that the people who are using these drugs are doing so in larger quantities and/or with greater frequency now,” said Huhn. “The findings also demonstrate that aggregated, quantitative UDT data offer a scalable surveillance method that can provide swift and nimble feedback on real‐time changes in drug exposure levels as well as emerging threats, like xylazine, that are not routinely captured by other methods,” he added. The analysis, which included 921,931 unique patient UDT specimens collected in SUD treatment settings across the U.S., also evaluated how these concentrations have changed in different parts of the country. With a few exceptions (eg, greater methamphetamine concentrations in the West and part of the South, largely stable heroin concentrations in the West), changes in drug exposure concentrations have been relatively similar across the U.S. over time. “These findings reveal that the drug use epidemic is evolving not only in terms of what drugs are being used but how much drug is being used,” said Angela Huskey, Pharm.D., chief clinical officer at Millennium Health. “This is the most granular assessment of drug use patterns in the U.S. to date and highlights an important, underappreciated nuance about drug use that may effect overdose risk and other clinically relevant phenomena.”
Reports on gambling focus on harms of online betting
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: November 2024

Last week, a report from the Lancet Public Health Commission on Gambling concluded that gambling industry growth has been fueled by the rise of online betting. Gamblers, including young people who are not allowed into casinos, can now easily gamble. The commission also found, alarmingly, that the spread is notable in low‐income countries.
Nanoconfinement Effect Enhances Stretchability and Mechanical Stability of Organic Photodetectors
Authors: Peng Zhongxiang , Chen Rui , Liu Xinyu , Zhang Yingze , Wang Jiahui , Miao Junhui , Han Yanchun , Liu Jun
Published: November 2024

Organic photodetectors (OPDs) hold immense promise for stretchable and wearable applications, but their photoactive films demonstrate brittleness, stiffness, and mechanical instability, posing challenges for future applications. Herein, the nanoconfinement effect is reported to substantially improve the stretchability and mechanical stability while reducing the stiffness of photoactive films, simultaneously maintaining the high light detection performance. The microstructure, mechanical properties, and photoelectric performance of the quaternary blend films with varying elastomer contents are thoroughly characterized. Additionally, the elastic modulus of quaternary blends can be accurately predicted by the Coran–Patel model. Cyclic tensile tests demonstrate enhanced mechanical stability, resulting in a specific detectivity of the quaternary blend with the nanoconfinement effect being 19 times higher than that of the ternary blend after 200 cycles. Overall, this study provides novel insights into constructing stretchable blend films for wearable electronics.
Polymer Electrolyte Based All‐Solid‐State Rechargeable Fluoride Ion Batteries
Authors: Yu Yifan , Li Guyue , Li Chilin
Published: November 2024

Rechargeable fluoride ion batteries (FIBs) are one of the most promising energy storage candidates in view of high energy density and low cost. The development of highly F‐conductive, safe, and flexible electrolytes is the central task for the construction of high‐performance FIBs. Hereby, this work first proposes a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)‐borax‐glycerol (PBG) polymer electrolyte. The F− transport along one PVA chain is realized by the interaction between F− and ‐OH on the PVA chain and the motion of PVA chain would facilitate the migration of F−. The B(OH)4− dissociated from borax can be used as a cross‐linking agent, and react with the hydroxyl groups on PVA by a dehydration process to form a polymer with a 3D cross‐linked structure. The optimized ionic conductivity (as high as 2.82 × 10−4 S cm−1 at 30 °C and 1.08 × 10−3 S cm−1 at 60 °C) of PBG can be obtained. The flat and soft surface of PBG electrolytes can significantly reduce the activation energy for the interfacial transport process. Benefitting from the high ionic conductivity and easier interfacial transport, the PBG electrolyte makes the all‐solid‐state FIBs enable reversible cycling at a high current density of 125 mA g−1.
Rubidium Halide Additive Engineering for Efficient and Stable Bifacial Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Chen Jieqiong , Sun Xiaoxu , Wang Zishuo , Cui Xiaoxia , Chen Xianggang , Li Zhuoxin , Feng Xuzheng , Tang Jixiang , Yang Miao , Yuan Zhengbo , Zhang Zhao , La Sijia , Li Xing , Dai Songyuan , Cai Molang
Published: November 2024

Bifacial perovskite solar cells (PSCs) possess a dual light‐absorbing structure, which enables higher power output at lower additional costs. However, the replacement of metal electrodes with transparent ones leads to serious light loss, necessitating a thicker perovskite layer to compensate for this drawback. In this study, the impact of different rubidium halide (RbCl, RbBr, and RbI) additives is systematically investigated on precursor solubility and the quality of micron‐sized perovskite thick films prepared using a two‐step method. It is observed that RbCl exhibited the strongest interactions with PbI2, enhancing its solubility and leading to the formation of multihole PbI2 films that promote subsequent crystallization of thick perovskite film. Additionally, the RbCl‐based perovskite film demonstrates a narrowed bandgap attributed to the formation of a‐FAPbI3. Consequently, the short‐circuit current density (Jsc) and open‐circuit voltage (Voc) in the RbCl‐based bifacial PSCs are simultaneously enhanced, and a record efficiency of 20.86% (21.04% certified) is also obtained among n‐i‐p bifacial PSCs, exhibiting an ≈80% bifaciality and a power generation density (PGD) exceeding 24 mW cm−2 with a reflectivity value of 0.2. More importantly, the optimized device does not show any performance degradation after continuous illumination under 1sun for 1000 h.
Development of Ultrathin, Breathable, Waterproof, and Durable Nanonet‐Supported Ionogel Sensors for Electrophysiological Monitoring
Authors: Zhang Jiale , Ma Zhuangzhuang , Li Maojian , Lou Minghao , Wang Hongqiang , Jia Lichao
Published: November 2024

Ionogel has gained attention as a promising material for flexible electronic skin (e‐skin), due to its exceptional conductivity, compositional stability, and biocompatibility. Nevertheless, establishing a seamless interface between ionogel and human skin remains a significant challenge. This study presents the design and fabrication of a nanonet‐supported ionogel with a thickness of ≈16 µm, marking it the thinnest ionogel reported to date. This ultrathin ionogel exhibits remarkable toughness (5.51 MJ m−3), a broad strain range (0–375%), and impressive fatigue resistance, enduring over 3000 cycles. Additionally, it offers excellent water resistance and a high water vapor transmission rate (WVTR), supporting perspiration and enhancing skin breathability. Moreover, the ultrathin ionogel has potential as a carrier in transdermal drug delivery systems (TDDS), highlighting its suitability for biomedical applications. Wearable devices incorporating this ultrathin ionogel facilitate continuous, sensitive, and highly accurate monitoring of physiological signals, positioning it as a promising material for future flexible e‐skin material.
MXene Surface Engineering Enabling High‐Performance Solid‐State Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: He Xiaolong , Xiang Yinyu , Yao Wenjiao , Yan Feng , Zhang Yongsheng , Gerlach Dominic , Pei Yutao , Rudolf Petra , Portale Giuseppe
Published: November 2024

Solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) offer inherent advantages for battery applications, such as high safety and excellent processability, but their practical use is limited by challenges like low ionic conductivity, subpar mechanical properties, and instability of the electrode/electrolyte interface. Here, novel SPEs are developed by embedding 2D MXenes decorated at the surface with methoxypolyethylene glycol chains into poly(vinylidene fluoride)‐hexafluoropropylene matrices, enhanced with succinonitrile as a plasticizer. This innovative design improves the compatibility of the modified MXene in poly(vinylidene fluoride)‐hexafluoropropylene and, together with the synergistic effects of succinonitrile, promotes the dissociation of lithium salt. The SPE achieves ionic conductivity of 1.49 × 10−4 S cm−1 at 30 °C, and a Li‐ion transference number of 0.59. These results are supported by comprehensive experimental characterization, COMSOL simulations, and DFT calculations. This SPE enables stable and reversible Li plating/stripping for over 2100 h in Li/Li symmetric cells, while fabricated Li/LiFePO4 full cells deliver a notable capacity of 135.4 mAh g−1 with an average Coulombic efficiency of 98.9% after 100 cycles at 0.2 C. Furthermore, the Li/LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 full cells also demonstrate a capacity of 140.5 mAh g−1 after over 200 cycles at 0.5 C, showcasing an impressive capacity retention rate of 99.6%.
Sugar‐Derived Carbon‐Based Fiber with Core‐Sheath Structure for Fiber‐Shaped Supercapacitors with High Strength and Superior Capacitive Performance
Authors: Yang Yu , Chen Daming , Han Wenbo , Hou Chenglin , Chen Guiqing , Han Jiecai , Zhang Xinghong
Published: November 2024

Fiber‐shaped supercapacitors are pivotal for wearable device advancement, yet they struggle to achieve both high strength and energy density, hindering their daily practicality in wearable electronic devices. In this study, a sugar‐derived carbon‐based fiber with a core‐sheath structure is designed to enhance the overall performance of fiber supercapacitors. The porous multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) sheath is bonded by sugar‐derived carbon （SDC）, which effectively prevents aggregation between the MWCNTs, providing a large adsorption surface for the fiber, consequently yielding excellent electrochemical performance, with a specific capacity of 236.7 F cm−3. The sugar‐derived core fibers function as the current collector for the fiber electrode, contributing significantly to the mechanical properties (213 MPa). The assembled fiber‐shaped supercapacitors demonstrate outstanding energy density (5.67 mWh cm−3 at power density of 45 mW cm−3) and flexibility, which can provide stable energy for various electronic devices and has great potential for application in wearable devices.
Stabilizing 4.6 V LiCoO2 via Surface‐to‐Bulk Titanium Modification
Authors: Gao Liu , Li Fujie , Zeng Guangrong , Jin Xin , Li Zhenyou , Wang Chao
Published: November 2024

Elevating the charging cut‐off voltage is an effective strategy to increase the energy density of LiCoO2. However, unstable interfacial structures and unfavorable phase transitions in bulk are inevitably triggered during deep de‐lithiation at high voltage. Herein, an integrated surface‐to‐bulk Ti‐modification strategy is applied to LiCoO2, enabling uniform Li2TiO3 coating on the surface and gradient Ti‐doping toward the structural bulk. The resultant Ti‐modified LiCoO2 (T‐LCO) electrode can be stably cycled up to 4.6 V, providing a high‐rate capability of 137 mAh g−1 at 5C and a long‐life stability with 80.5% capacity retention after 400 cycles at 1C, far outperforming the unmodified LiCoO2 electrode with only 50.7% capacity retention. In situ X‐ray diffraction characterization and density functional theory calculation reveal that the synergistic modification of T‐LCO enhances Li+ diffusion, facilitates the construction of high‐quality cathode/electrolyte interphase, reduces the phase transition from O3 to H1‐3 and Co3d/O2p band overlap, and restrains layer‐to‐spinel phase distortion, thus improving structural stability at 4.6 V. This work presents a “two birds one step” strategy to enhance the cycling stability and achievable capacity of high‐voltage LiCoO2 for developing high energy density lithium‐ion batteries.
Fabrication of MnO2‐Modified Decellularized Tendon Membrane for Enhancing Tendon Repair
Authors: Lun Wanqing , Wang Huajun , Li Mengyuan , Ma Jiuzhi , Ding Yilin , Zheng Xiaofei , Cao Xiaodong , Li Qingtao
Published: November 2024

Repairing tendon/ligament injuries is a major challenge in sports medicine. It has been reported that tendon injury healing is hindered by massive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Manganese oxides nanoparticles are generally non‐toxic, can scavenge ROS, promote tissue regeneration, and hold promise for sustainable nanotechnologies. However, the effective and safe integration of MnO2 nanoparticles on decellularized scaffold mediating tissue repair is still a great challenge. To address these issues, an in situ MnO2‐modified decellularized scaffold is developed to enhance tendon regeneration through improving microenvironment. The decellularized fibrous membrane is designed and prepared using the central tendon of the porcine diaphragm. Then MnO2 nanozymes are in situ grown on the collagen fibers using tannic acid (TA) as cross‐linking agent and reducing agent. The results showed that MnO2‐modified scaffold eliminates excessive accumulation of ROS in cells, protects mitochondrial, and maintains the phenotype of tendon cells in an oxidative stress environment. Notably, it is found that the MnO2‐modified scaffold exhibits good biocompatibility and is able to promote the tendon healing in the rat patellar tendon defect model. Altogether, this study confirmed that this nanozyme‐functionalized decellularized extracellular matrix effectively enhanced tendon repair by scavenging ROS, which provides new strategies for enhancing tendon regeneration.