bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Airborne absolute gravity measurements based on quantum gravimeter
Authors: ZHAI Chenjie  , WANG Jing  , ZHOU Junjie  , WANG Yu  , TANG Xiaoming  , ZHOU Yin  , ZHANG Can  , LI Rui  , SHU Qing  , WANG Kainan  , WANG Shuangquan  , JIN Zixin  , HUA Shan  , SUN Yiren  , WANG Zhenghao  , MA Zhixiang  , CAI Minghao  , WANG Xiaolong  , WU Bin  , LIN Qiang  ,   1 College of Physics, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Quantum Precision Measurement, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310023, China;,   2 China Aero Geophysical Survey and Remote Sensing Center for Land and Resources, Beijing 100083, China;,   3 College of Physics, Institute of Quantum Precision Measurement, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
Published: February 2025

High-precision gravity field mapping plays a critical role in geological surveys, resource exploration, and geoid modeling. While the conventional ground-based static absolute gravity measurements offer high accuracy, they are fundamentally constrained by low operational efficiency and inability to survey complex terrains such as river networks, lakes, and mountainous regions. This study tries to address these limitations through the development of an airborne absolute gravity measurement system based on quantum gravimeters. At a flight altitude of 1022 m and a speed of 240 km/h of the airplane, the measured gravity values exhibit a standard deviation of approximately 8.86 mGal with a process of 3 km filtering. Furthermore, a comparative analysis with the gravity model of EGM2008 reveals residual standard deviations of 8.16 mGal, validating the system's alignment with established geophysical references. The experimental results confirm the operational feasibility of quantum gravimeters in scenarios of airborne dynamic measurement, demonstrating the viability of this technological framework for high-resolution gravity field mapping.
First-principles study on NH3 adsorption on Ag- and Cu-doped graphene oxide
Authors: Wan Yu-Wei  , Wang Rui  , Zhou Wen-Quan  , Wang Yi-Ping  , Cai Ya-Nan  , Wang Chang  ,   College of Science, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
Published: February 2025

Graphene has attracted great attention due to its large specific surface area,high charge carrier mobility,and excellent electrical conductivity.However,the inherent structural integrity and zero bandgap characteristics of graphene limit its gas sensing properties.Consequently,researchers have embarked on exploring avenues such as doping graphene or leveraging graphene oxide as a gas-sensitive material to design gas sensors that respond optimally to ammonia.This study,based on first-principle density functional theory,focuses on the field of ammonia gas sensors,investigating in detail the adsorption characteristics of ammonia molecules on graphene oxide (GO) and graphene oxide doped with Ag and Cu (AgGO, CuGO).By calculating parameters encompassing charge distribution,density of states,band structures,and adsorption energies,the study delves into the influence of diverse oxygen-containing groups and metal doping on the gas sensing properties of graphene oxide.The research results demonstrate a substantial charge density overlap between the density of states of hydroxyl groups in graphene oxide and NH3 molecules,thereby indicating a pronounced chemical adsorption propensity.Particularly noteworthy is the observation that post-NH3 adsorption,the hydroxyl-containing graphene oxide exhibits the highest charge transfer (0.078e) and adsorption energy (0.60 eV),signifying its superior adsorption efficacy towards NH3,followed by carboxyl groups,with epoxy groups displaying comparably weaker adsorption capabilities, wherein the latter two primarily engage in physical adsorption.Furthermore,the study delves into the impact of metal doping on graphene oxide,evidencing that the adsorption capability of doped graphene oxide hinges upon the synergistic influence of oxygen-containing groups and metal atoms,with Ag-doped graphene oxide showing a several-fold increase in adsorption energy.Through density of states analysis,it transpires that Ag atoms resonate with s,p,and d orbitals of the N atom in NH3,proving the formation of a chemical bond between Ag atoms and N atoms. Moreover,a comparative analysis shows that Cu-doped graphene oxide (CuGO) has an increased charge transfer of about 0.020e and slightly higher adsorption energy compared to Ag-doped graphene oxide (AgGO) when adsorbing NH3.Intriguingly, under the same doping concentration,CuGO exhibits superior adsorption performance towards NH3. Significantly,within Graphene Oxide doped with Ag or Cu,the adsorption mechanism of carboxyl and epoxy groups transitions from physical to chemical adsorption,while the hydroxyl groups maintain consistent chemical adsorption properties pre and post-doping.This suggests that doping with Ag or Cu atoms can significantly enhance the adsorption capability of graphene oxide towards NH3.
Crystal nucleation and growth kinetics of acoustically levitated liquid SCN-DC transparent alloys
Authors: ZHU Guangyao  , GENG Delu  , HOU Niansi  , WANG Shiyu  , WEI Bingbo  ,   School of Physical Science and Technology, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an 710072, China
Published: February 2025

As an important and promising experimental method for simulating the containerless state in outer space, acoustic levitation provides excellent contact-free condition to investigate solidification process. Meanwhile, the radiation pressure and acoustic streaming caused by nonlinear effects bring various kinds of novel phenomena to crystallization kinetics. In this work, high-speed CCD, low-speed camera and infrared thermal imager were used simultaneously to observe the crystallization process of acoustically levitated SCN-DC transparent alloys. The undercooling ability and solidification process of alloy droplets with different aspect ratios were explored under acoustic levitation state. For hypoeutectic SCN-10wt%DC, eutectic SCN-23.6wt%DC and hypereutectic SCN-40wt%DC alloys, the experimental maximum undercoolings reached 22.5(0.07TL), 16(0.05TE) and 32.5K(0.1TL) respectively and the corresponding crystal growth velocities were 27.91, 0.21 and 0.45 mm/s. In SCN-10wt%DC hypoeutectic alloy, the nucleation mode of SCN dendrite changed from edge nucleation to random nucleation with the increase of undercooling. For SCN-23.6wt%DC eutectic alloy, when undercooling exceeded 12.6K, DC dendrite preferentially nucleated and grew, and then the (SCN+DC) eutectic grew attached to DC dendrite. Moreover, the growth interface of DC dendrite gradually changed from sharp to smooth within SCN-40wt%DC hypereutectic alloy as the undercooling degree rose. The undercooling distribution curve and nucleation probability variation trend were analyzed versus aspect ratio. It was found that as the aspect ratio increased, undercooling of alloy droplet increased firstly, then decreased, and finally remained almost unchanged. Further analysis showed that with the increase of aspect ratio, the cooling rate would rise and thus enhanced the undercooling. However, the increase in surface nucleation rate and the droplet oscillation inhibited deep undercooling of alloy droplet. Therefore, the coupled effects of cooling rate, surface nucleation rate and droplet oscillation determined the undercooling of the alloy. In the case of SCN-40wt%DC hypereutectic alloy, the acoustic streaming and surface oscillation arising from acoustic field were the principal factors intensifying surface nucleation.
Direktiivvaid oččodeapmi vuollel golmmajahkásaš máná gielas
Authors: Ijäs Johanna Johansen
Published: February 2025

Direktiiva lea cealkkus man ulbmil lea váikkuhit nuppi olbmo daguide. Artihkal guorahallá direktiivvaid oččodeami máná gielas agis 1;8–3;0, ja dutkanmateriála vuođđuduvvá ovtta máná ja su áhči spontána ságastallamiidda mat leat báddejuvvon lagabui 15 diimmu. Ságastallamiid transkripšuvnnat leat kodifiserejuvvon iešguđetlágan direktiivatiippaid mielde. Bohtosat čájehit ahte sihke máná ja váhnema direktiivvaid sáhttá juohkit njealljin váldojoavkun: imperatiivahámit, indikatiivahámit, vearbbahis direktiivvat ja infinitiivahámit. Mánná atná iešguđetlágan direktiivvaid olles materiálačoaggináigge, muhto álggus eanas vearbbahis direktiivvaid ja indikatiivahámiid. Imperatiivahámiid geavaheapmi lassána maŋŋel go son deavdá guokte jagi. Dát golbma direktiivatiippa dahket guhtege sullii goalmmádasa máná direktiivvain. Váhnema materiálas badjelaš bealli leat imperatiivacealkagat, ja vearbbahis direktiivvat leat mihá unnit go máná materiálas.
Grittiness and Stressors of Grade Six in Flora District as Basis for Intervention
Authors: Caligan Sheena Grace B.
Published: February 2025

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the grittiness and coping strategies of Grade Six students in Flora District during the new normal education delivery, particularly in the context of Modular Distance Learning amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The research sought to identify the factors affecting learners’ adaptability and how they managed stressors related to the educational transition.
Methods: The descriptive research design was employed, involving a sample of 60 learners. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and informal interviews. The profiling of learners included demographic factors such as age, sex, parental education, occupation, number of siblings, and availability of learning resources at home. Statistical tools, including frequency counts, percentages, and weighted means, were utilized to analyze and interpret the data.
Major Findings: The findings indicated a predominantly female population among the learners, with parents primarily engaged in farming and having completed formal education. Most students had access to modular resources, including Learning Activity Sheets and textbooks, which facilitated their participation in Modular Distance Learning. The study revealed that learners exhibited substantial levels of grittiness, which correlated with effective coping strategies amid the challenges posed by the pandemic.
Conclusion: The study concluded that fostering a supportive educational environment through adequate learning resources and targeted interventions is essential for enhancing students’ resilience and grit in the face of adversity. It emphasizes the importance of tailored curricula and effective management strategies by school heads and educators to meet the unique needs of learners in the evolving educational landscape.
Effect of Sarcoptic Mange on Haemato-biochemical Parameters
Authors: Bhatt Shruti , Tripathi Arvind Kumar , Tiwari Jitendra , Srivastava Ashish , Chaudhary Alok K. , Verma Sonika , Raikwar Arpana , Dawar Pooja
Published: February 2025

Aims: The present study was conducted to observe the effect of Sarcoptic scabiei infection on various haematological and biochemical parameters in dogs and to investigate the effect of 2% combination of three essential oils, i.e. 1% Lemongrass oil (Cymbopogon citratus), 0.5% Tulsi oil (Ocimum tenuiflorum) and 0.5% Sandalwood oil (Santalum album) in ameliorating these parameters.
Study Design: The clinically affected dogs that were brought to the Veterinary Clinical Complex with symptoms of sarcoptic mange were included in the study. Haemato-biochemical parameters of dogs found positive were analyzed and compared to the healthy ones to identify any significant difference caused by Sarcoptes scabiei. Furthermore, efficacy of topical application of the 2% essential oil combination was compared with Ivermectin.
Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at Department of Veterinary Medicine and Veterinary Clinical Complex, DUVASU, Mathura, India, over a span of 18 months, from February, 2023 to July, 2024.
Methodology: Total 123 dogs were included in the present study, out of which 31 dogs were found positive with S. scabiei on the basis of clinical and microscopic examination of skin scrapings. These positive dogs were subjected to study the changes in various haemato-biochemical parameters. Further, twelve of these positive dogs were divided into two groups, one treated with the 2% essential oil combination topically, and the other with Ivermectin injection, given subcutaneously. Six apparently healthy dogs were treated as control. These haemato-biochemical parameters were estimated at days 0 (pre-therapy), and days 14 and 28 (post-therapy). Student’s t-test and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) in Graphpad Prism software was used for statistical analysis.
Results: Dogs with sarcoptic mange exhibited significantly lower levels of TEC, Hb, HCT, MCH, MCHC, total protein and albumin while significantly higher levels of TLC, neutrophils, ALT, AST and ALP enzymes was noted. Both the treatment groups were successful in amelioration of these haemato-biochemical parameters post-therapy.
Conclusion: The essential oils can be used as an alternative therapy option in managing sarcoptic mange.
Quality of Chinese Agricultural Products Exported to Japan 2001-2017: Econometric Descriptive Nested Logit Analysis
Authors: Dong Yinguo , Li Jingwen , Pu Lijuan
Published: February 2025

Improving the quality of agricultural products is a key issue that needs to be urgently addressed in China's agricultural development. The top market for China's agricultural exports is Japan, so the quality of agricultural products exported to Japan is directly related to the overall trend of China's agricultural exports. Therefore, this study examined the spatial and temporal evolution of the quality level of China's agricultural exports to Japan based on HS 9-digit coded data on Japan's imports of agricultural products from 158 countries around the world from 2001 to 2017, using the Nested Logit Method. The results indicate that the quality of China's agricultural products exported to Japan during the data period generally shows a fluctuating downward trend. And, the overall quality of China's agricultural products is in the middle level of the world, but there is a large gap between the quality levels of different categories. Low-quality varieties of agricultural products account for nearly 50 percent of the total, while high-quality agricultural products account for less. In terms of quality, China’s agricultural products lack competitiveness in Japan. To this end, China should vigorously improve the pesticide regulatory policy, implement standardized production, and establish production advantage zones for special agricultural products.
Produce Prescriptions Sound Good, but Data to Support Them Are Lacking—That Could Soon Change
Authors: McKenna Maryn
Published: April 2024

This Medical News article discusses research initiatives to support produce prescriptions and other “food is medicine” nutrition programs in health care settings.
Non–High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Levels From Childhood to Adulthood and Cardiovascular Disease Events
Authors: Wu Feitong , Jacobs David R. , Daniels Stephen R. , Kähönen Mika , Woo Jessica G. , Sinaiko Alan R. , Viikari Jorma S. A. , Bazzano Lydia A. , Steinberger Julia , Urbina Elaine M. , Venn Alison J. , Raitakari Olli T. , Dwyer Terence , Juonala Markus , Magnussen Costan G.
Published: April 2024

Importance

Elevated non–high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non–HDL-C; a recommended measure of lipid-related cardiovascular risk) is common in children and increases risk of adult cardiovascular disease (CVD). Whether resolution of elevated childhood non–HDL-C levels by adulthood is associated with reduced risk of clinical CVD events is unknown.

Objective

To examine the associations of non–HDL-C status between childhood and adulthood with incident CVD events.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Individual participant data from 6 prospective cohorts of children (mean age at baseline, 10.7 years) in the US and Finland. Recruitment took place between 1970 and 1996, with a final follow-up in 2019.

Exposures

Child (age 3-19 years) and adult (age 20-40 years) non–HDL-C age- and sex-specific z scores and categories according to clinical guideline–recommended cutoffs for dyslipidemia.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Incident fatal and nonfatal CVD events adjudicated by medical records.

Results

Over a mean length of follow-up of 8.9 years after age 40 years, 147 CVD events occurred among 5121 participants (60% women; 15% Black). Both childhood and adult non–HDL-C levels were associated with increased risk of CVD events (hazard ratio [HR], 1.42 [95% CI, 1.18-1.70] and HR, 1.50 [95% CI, 1.26-1.78] for a 1-unit increase in z score, respectively), but the association for childhood non–HDL-C was reduced when adjusted for adult levels (HR, 1.12 [95% CI, 0.89-1.41]). A complementary analysis showed that both childhood non–HDL-C levels and the change between childhood and adulthood were independently associated with the outcome, suggesting that from a preventive perspective, both childhood non–HDL-C levels and the change into adulthood are informative. Compared with those whose non-HDL-C levels remained within the guideline-recommended range in childhood and adulthood, participants who had incident non–HDL-C dyslipidemia from childhood to adulthood and those with persistent dyslipidemia had increased risks of CVD events (HR, 2.17 [95% CI, 1.00-4.69] and HR, 5.17 [95% CI, 2.80-9.56], respectively). Individuals who had dyslipidemic non–HDL-C in childhood but whose non-HDL-C levels were within the guideline-recommended range in adulthood did not have a significantly increased risk (HR, 1.13 [95% CI, 0.50-2.56]).

Conclusions and Relevance

Individuals with persistent non–HDL-C dyslipidemia from childhood to adulthood had an increased risk of CVD events, but those in whom dyslipidemic non–HDL-C levels resolve by adulthood have similar risk to individuals who were never dyslipidemic. These findings suggest that interventions to prevent and reduce elevated childhood non–HDL-C levels may help prevent premature CVD.
Influenza Vaccine Immune Response in Patients With High-Risk Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Peikert Alexander , Claggett Brian L. , Udell Jacob A. , Joseph Jacob , Hegde Sheila M. , Kim KyungMann , Mao Lu , Wang Tuo , Havighurst Thomas C. , Farkouh Michael E. , Bhatt Deepak L. , Tattersall Matthew C. , Cooper Lawton S. , Solomon Scott D. , Vardeny Orly
Published: April 2024

Importance

High-dose trivalent compared with standard-dose quadrivalent influenza vaccine did not significantly reduce all-cause mortality or cardiopulmonary hospitalizations in patients with high-risk cardiovascular disease in the INVESTED trial. Whether humoral immune response to influenza vaccine is associated with clinical outcomes is unknown.

Objective

To examine the antibody response to high-dose trivalent compared with standard-dose quadrivalent inactivated influenza vaccine and its associations with clinical outcomes.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This secondary analysis is a prespecified analysis of the immune response substudy of the randomized, double-blind, active-controlled INVESTED trial, which was conducted at 157 sites in the United States and Canada over 3 influenza seasons between September 2016 and January 2019. Antibody titers were determined by hemagglutination inhibition assays at randomization and 4 weeks during the 2017-2018 and 2018-2019 seasons. Eligibility criteria included recent acute myocardial infarction or heart failure hospitalization and at least 1 additional risk factor. Data were analyzed from February 2023 to June 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Mean antibody titer change, seroprotection (antibody titer level ≥1:40) and seroconversion (≥4-fold increase in titer) at 4 weeks, and the association between seroconversion status and the risk for adverse clinical outcomes.

Interventions

High-dose trivalent or standard-dose quadrivalent inactivated influenza vaccine, with revaccination up to 3 seasons.

Results

Antibody data were available for 658 of 5260 randomized participants (12.5%; mean [SD] age, 66.2 [11.4] years; 507 male [77.1%], 151 female [22.9%]; 348 with heart failure [52.9%]). High-dose vaccine was associated with an increased magnitude in antibody titers for A/H1N1, A/H3N2, and B-type antigens compared with standard dose. More than 92% of all participants achieved seroprotection for each of the contained antigens, while seroconversion rates were higher in participants who received high-dose vaccine. Seroconversion for any antigen was not associated with the risk for cardiopulmonary hospitalizations or all-cause mortality (hazard ratio, 1.09; 95% CI, 0.79-1.53; P = .59), irrespective of randomized treatment (P = .38 for interaction).

Conclusions and Relevance

High-dose vaccine elicited a more robust humoral response in patients with heart failure or prior myocardial infarction enrolled in the INVESTED trial, with no association between seroconversion status and the risk for cardiopulmonary hospitalizations or all-cause mortality. Vaccination to prevent influenza remains critical in high-risk populations.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02787044
High-Acuity Alcohol-Related Complications During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Shuey Bryant , Halbisen Alyssa , Lakoma Matthew , Zhang Fang , Argetsinger Stephanie , Williams Emily C. , Druss Benjamin G. , Wen Hefei , Wharam J. Franklin
Published: April 2024

Importance

Research has demonstrated an association between the COVID-19 pandemic and increased alcohol-related liver disease hospitalizations and deaths. However, trends in alcohol-related complications more broadly are unclear, especially among subgroups disproportionately affected by alcohol use.

Objective

To assess trends in people with high-acuity alcohol-related complications admitted to the emergency department, observation unit, or hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on demographic differences.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This longitudinal interrupted time series cohort study analyzed US national insurance claims data using Optum’s deidentified Clinformatics Data Mart database from March 2017 to September 2021, before and after the March 2020 COVID-19 pandemic onset. A rolling cohort of people 15 years and older who had at least 6 months of continuous commercial or Medicare Advantage coverage were included. Subgroups of interest included males and females stratified by age group. Data were analyzed from April 2023 to January 2024.

Exposure

COVID-19 pandemic environment from March 2020 to September 2021.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Differences between monthly rates vs predicted rates of high-acuity alcohol-related complication episodes, determined using claims-based algorithms and alcohol-specific diagnosis codes. The secondary outcome was the subset of complication episodes due to alcohol-related liver disease.

Results

Rates of high-acuity alcohol-related complications were statistically higher than expected in 4 of 18 pandemic months after March 2020 (range of absolute and relative increases: 0.4-0.8 episodes per 100 000 people and 8.3%-19.4%, respectively). Women aged 40 to 64 years experienced statistically significant increases in 10 of 18 pandemic months (range of absolute and relative increases: 1.3-2.1 episodes per 100 000 people and 33.3%-56.0%, respectively). In this same population, rates of complication episodes due to alcohol-related liver disease increased above expected in 16 of 18 pandemic months (range of absolute and relative increases: 0.8-2.1 episodes per 100 000 people and 34.1%-94.7%, respectively).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of a national, commercially insured population, high-acuity alcohol-related complication episodes increased beyond what was expected in 4 of 18 COVID-19 pandemic months. Women aged 40 to 64 years experienced 33.3% to 56.0% increases in complication episodes in 10 of 18 pandemic months, a pattern associated with large and sustained increases in high-acuity alcohol-related liver disease complications. Findings underscore the need for increased attention to alcohol use disorder risk factors, alcohol use patterns, alcohol-related health effects, and alcohol regulations and policies, especially among women aged 40 to 64 years.
Physician Coaching by Professionally Trained Peers for Burnout and Well-Being
Authors: Kiser Stephanie B. , Sterns J. David , Lai Po Ying , Horick Nora K. , Palamara Kerri
Published: April 2024

Importance

Physician burnout is problematic despite existing interventions. More evidence-based approaches are needed.

Objective

To explore the effect of individualized coaching by professionally trained peers on burnout and well-being in physicians.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This randomized clinical trial involved Mass General Physician Organization physicians who volunteered for coaching from August 5 through December 1, 2021. The data analysis was performed from February through October 2022.

Interventions

Participants were randomized to 6 coaching sessions facilitated by a peer coach over 3 months or a control condition using standard institutional resources for burnout and wellness.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was burnout as measured by the Stanford Professional Fulfillment Index. Secondary outcomes included professional fulfillment, effect of work on personal relationships, quality of life, work engagement, and self-valuation. Analysis was performed on a modified intention-to-treat basis.

Results

Of 138 physicians enrolled, 67 were randomly allocated to the coaching intervention and 71 to the control group. Most participants were aged 31 to 60 years (128 [93.0%]), women (109 [79.0%]), married (108 [78.3%]), and in their early to mid career (mean [SD], 12.0 [9.7] years in practice); 39 (28.3%) were Asian, 3 (<0.1%) were Black, 9 (<0.1%) were Hispanic, 93 were (67.4%) White, and 6 (<0.1%) were of other race or ethnicity. In the intervention group, 52 participants underwent coaching and were included in the analysis. Statistically significant improvements in burnout, interpersonal disengagement, professional fulfillment, and work engagement were observed after 3 months of coaching compared with no intervention. Mean scores for interpersonal disengagement decreased by 30.1% in the intervention group and increased by 4.1% in the control group (absolute difference, −0.94 poimys [95% CI, −1.48 to −0.41 points; P = .001), while mean scores for overall burnout decreased by 21.6% in the intervention group and increased by 2.5% in the control group (absolute difference, −0.79 points; 95% CI, −1.27 to −0.32 points; P = .001). Professional fulfillment increased by 10.7% in the intervention group compared with no change in the control group (absolute difference, 0.59 points; 95% CI, 0.01-1.16 points; P = .046). Work engagement increased by 6.3% in the intervention group and decreased by 2.2% in the control group (absolute difference, 0.33 points; 95% CI, 0.02-0.65 points; P = .04). Self-valuation increased in both groups, but not significantly.

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings of this hospital-sponsored program show that individualized coaching by professionally trained peers is an effective strategy for reducing physician burnout and interpersonal disengagement while improving their professional fulfillment and work engagement.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05036993
Semaglutide vs Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty for Weight Loss
Authors: Haseeb Muhammad , Chhatwal Jagpreet , Xiao Jade , Jirapinyo Pichamol , Thompson Christopher C.
Published: April 2024

Importance

Obesity is a disease with a large socioeconomic burden. Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) is a minimally invasive endoscopic bariatric procedure with wide global adoption. More recently, new weight-loss medications, such as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (eg, semaglutide), have attracted increased attention due to their efficacy. However, their cost-effectiveness over an extended period compared with ESG is a critical gap that needs to be better explored for informed health care decision-making.

Objective

To assess the cost-effectiveness of semaglutide compared with ESG over 5 years for individuals with class II obesity.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This economic evaluation study, conducted from September 1, 2022, to May 31, 2023, used a Markov cohort model to compare ESG and semaglutide, with a no-treatment baseline strategy. The study comprised adult patients in the US health care system with class II obesity (body mass index [BMI] of 35-39.9). The base case was a 45-year-old patient with class II obesity (BMI of 37). Patients undergoing ESG were subjected to risks of perioperative mortality and adverse events with resultant costs and decrement in quality of life.

Interventions

Strategies included treatment with semaglutide and ESG.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Costs (2022 US dollars), quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs), and incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) with a willingness-to-pay threshold of $100 000/QALY. A 5-year time horizon with a cycle length of 1 month with a 3% discount rate was used. Probabilities, costs, and quality-of-life estimates of the model were derived from published literature. One-way, 2-way, and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were also performed.

Results

The model found that ESG was more cost-effective than semaglutide over a 5-year time horizon, with an ICER of –$595 532/QALY. Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty added 0.06 QALYs and reduced total cost by $33 583 relative to semaglutide. The results remained robust on 1-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses. Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty sustained greater weight loss over 5 years vs semaglutide (BMI of 31.7 vs 33.0). To achieve nondominance, the annual price of semaglutide, currently $13 618, would need to be $3591.

Conclusions and Relevance

This study suggests that ESG is cost saving compared with semaglutide in the treatment of class II obesity. On price threshold analyses, a 3-fold decrease in the price of semaglutide is needed to achieve nondominance.
Vaccination Timeliness Among US Children Aged 0-19 Months, National Immunization Survey–Child 2011-2021
Authors: Newcomer Sophia R. , Michels Sarah Y. , Albers Alexandria N. , Freeman Rain E. , Graham Jon M. , Clarke Christina L. , Glanz Jason M. , Daley Matthew F.
Published: April 2024

Importance

Delays in receiving vaccinations lead to greater vaccine-preventable disease risk. Timeliness of receipt of recommended vaccinations is not routinely tracked in the US, either overall or for populations that have known barriers to accessing routine health care, including lower-income families and children.

Objective

To measure vaccination timeliness among US children aged 0 to 19 months, overall and by socioeconomic indicators.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This serial, cross-sectional study analyzed nationally representative data from the 2011 to 2021 National Immunization Survey–Child (NIS-Child), an annual survey of parents, with immunization histories collected from clinicians administering vaccines. The 2020 and 2021 surveys largely reflected vaccinations in the US before the COVID-19 pandemic. Study participants included US children surveyed at ages 19 to 35 months. Data were analyzed from January to August 2023.

Exposure

Survey year.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcomes were average days undervaccinated (ADU) and percentage of children who received all vaccine doses on time (ie, 0 days undervaccinated) for the combined 7-vaccine series up to age 19 months. The mean adjusted annual change in on-time vaccination by socioeconomic indicators was calculated by use of multivariable log-linked binomial regression models.

Results

The surveys included 179 154 children (92 248 boys [51.2%]); 74 479 (31.4%, weighted) lived above the federal poverty level with more than $75 000 in annual family income, 58 961 (32.4%) lived at or above the poverty level with $75 000 or less in annual family income, and 39 564 (30.2%) lived below the poverty level. Overall, the median (IQR) ADU for the combined 7-vaccine series in the US decreased from 22.3 (0.4-71.5) days in the 2011 survey to 11.9 (0.0-55.5) days in the 2021 survey. The prevalence of on-time receipt of the combined 7-vaccine series increased from 22.5% (95% CI, 21.4%-23.6%) to 35.6% (95% CI, 34.2%-37.0%). Although children with more than $75 000 in annual family income had a 4.6% (95% CI, 4.0%-5.2%) mean annual increase in on-time vaccination, the mean annual increase was 2.8% (95% CI, 2.0%-3.6%) for children living at or above the poverty level with $75 000 or less in annual family income and 2.0% (95% CI, 1.0%-3.0%) for children living below the poverty level.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cross-sectional study of NIS-Child data, improvements in vaccination timeliness were observed from the 2011 to the 2021 survey. However, widening disparities by socioeconomic indicators signal that increased efforts to facilitate timely vaccination among children in lower-income families are needed.
Characterization of the endogenous retrovirus‐derived placenta‐specific soluble protein EnvV‐Fca from domestic cats
Authors: Pramono Didik , Sugimoto Kenji , Kimura Tohru , Miyake Ariko , Nishigaki Kazuo
Published: April 2024

Endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) are remnants of ancestral viruses in the host genome. The present study identified the expression of a defective retroviral env gene belonging to the ERV group V member Env (EnvV) in Felis catus (EnvV‐Fca). EnV‐Fca was specifically detected in the placental trophoblast syncytiotrophobic layer and expressed as a secreted protein in cultured cells. Genetic analyses indicated that EnvV2 genes are widely present in vertebrates and are under purifying selection among carnivores, suggesting a potential benefit for the host. This study suggests that birds, bats, and rodents carrying EnvV2 may play significant roles as intermediate vectors in spreading or cross‐transmitting viruses among species. Our findings provide valuable insights into the evolution of ERV in vertebrate hosts.
Manzamine A reduces androgen receptor transcription and synthesis by blocking E2F8‐DNA interactions and effectively inhibits prostate tumor growth in mice
Authors: Karan Dev , Dubey Seema , Gunewardena Sumedha , Iczkowski Kenneth A. , Singh Manohar , Liu Pengyuan , Poletti Angelo , Choo Yeun‐Mun , Chen Hui‐Zi , Hamann Mark T.
Published: April 2024

The androgen receptor (AR) is the main driver in the development of castration‐resistant prostate cancer, where the emergence of AR splice variants leads to treatment‐resistant disease. Through detailed molecular studies of the marine alkaloid manzamine A (MA), we identified transcription factor E2F8 as a previously unknown regulator of AR transcription that prevents AR synthesis in prostate cancer cells. MA significantly inhibited the growth of various prostate cancer cell lines and was highly effective in inhibiting xenograft tumor growth in mice without any pathophysiological perturbations in major organs. MA suppressed the full‐length AR (AR‐FL), its spliced variant AR‐V7, and the AR‐regulated prostate‐specific antigen (PSA; also known as KLK3) and human kallikrein 2 (hK2; also known as KLK2) genes. RNA sequencing (RNA‐seq) analysis and protein modeling studies revealed E2F8 interactions with DNA as a potential novel target of MA, suppressing AR transcription and its synthesis. This novel mechanism of blocking AR biogenesis via E2F8 may provide an opportunity to control therapy‐resistant prostate cancer over the currently used AR antagonists designed to target different parts of the AR gene.
Improving Microstructural Homogeneity of Investment‐Cast Single‐Crystalline Ni‐Base Superalloys by Using Fluidized Carbon Bed Cooling
Authors: Schulze Hannes , Zenk Christopher H. , Körner Carolin
Published: April 2024

One impeding factor for faster solidification in typical investment casting processes is the limited heat removal capability. This study compares the classical Bridgman technique and the fluidized carbon bed cooling (FCBC) casting method. In particular, the influence of the thermal design is investigated in terms of microstructural and compositional homogeneity in single‐crystalline CMSX‐4. These investment casting processes mainly differ in the baffle type used to insulate the hot and cold zones inside of the casting vessel. While the Bridgman process is based on radiation cooling, the FCBC casting process relies on a dynamic baffle made of expanded graphite that is buoyant on fluidized bed of glassy carbon beads. Such a dynamic insulation layer can adapt to the cross‐sectional variation of ceramic shell molds and provide a better thermal insulation, which results in more uniform solidification conditions. This enables a reduction in the primary dendrite arm spacing by up to 26%, an increase in the homogeneity of the microstructure and composition, as well as a reduction in overall porosity and mean pore size of 41%.
Synergizing Structural Stiffness Regulation with Compliance Contact Stiffness: Bioinspired Soft Stimuli‐Responsive Materials Design for Soft Machines
Authors: Ma Ke , Zhang Jie , Sun Ruotong , Chang Binhan , Zhang Siyuan , Wang Xiaojun , Wu Jianing , Zhang Jinxiu
Published: April 2024

Stiffness regulation strategies endow soft machines with stronger functionality to cope with diverse application requirements, for example manipulating heavy items by improving structural stiffness. However, most programmable stiffness strategies usually struggle to preserve the inherent compliant interaction capabilities following an enhancement in structural stiffness. In this study, inspired by the musculocutaneous system, we propose a soft stimuli‐responsive material (SRM) by combining shape memory alloy into compliant materials. By characterizing the mechanical performance, the flexural modulus increases from 6.6 to 142.4 MPa under the action of active stimuli, crossing two orders of magnitude, while Young's modulus stays at 2.2 MPa during programming structural stiffness. This comparative result indicates that our SRMs can keep a lower contact stiffness for compliant interaction although structural stiffness increases. Then, we develop three diverse soft machines to show the application potential of this smart material, such as robotic grippers, wearable devices, and deployable mechanisms. By applying our materials, these machines possess stronger load‐bearing capabilities. Meanwhile, these demonstrations also illustrate the efficacy of this paradigm in regulating the structural stiffness of soft machines while maintaining their compliant interaction capabilities.
Preserving Fresh Eggs via Egg‐Derived Bionanocomposite Coating
Authors: Zinke Aasha , Pottackal Neethu , Zahin Farhan , Nur Mohammed Intishar , Ahmed Faravi , Ji Yue , Mohammed Zaheeruddin , Meyer Matthew D. , Miller Corwin , Bennett Matthew R. , Rangari Vijaya , Meredith J. Carson , Ajayan Pulickel M. , Rahman Muhammad M.
Published: April 2024

Egg waste is a major contributor to global food waste, accounting for 15% of discarded food in the United States. Typically, eggs have a shorter shelf life at room temperature and are preserved in refrigeration from production to consumption. However, maintaining constant refrigeration is energy‐intensive and expensive. Here, a bionanocomposite coating has been developed that incorporates each element of eggs – egg white, yolk, and eggshell – to increase the shelf life of fresh eggs without requiring further refrigeration. The quality of eggs has been successfully preserved for up to three weeks at room temperature. The coated eggs maintain the highest grade (AA) and exhibit improved Haugh Unit (HU), Yolk Index (YI), and pH compared to uncoated eggs. The coating reduces weight loss by ≈37% with an increase in HU (≈12.5%) and YI (≈13.9%). Morphological analysis reveals strong adhesion of the coating to the eggshell surface, showcasing promising barrier properties. The coating demonstrates an optimal combination of oxygen permeability (≈12.2 cm3 µm m−2 d−1 kPa−1) and water vapor transmission (≈31.5 g mm m−2 per day) with excellent antimicrobial properties. Overall, this approach of repurposing eggs into a high‐performance coating shows a promising viable alternative to refrigeration and a solution to combat egg waste.
A Peptide‐Polyphenol Coated Polypyrrole Nanoparticle for Synergetic Attenuation of Aggregation and Cytotoxicity of Amyloid‐β Fibrils
Authors: Zhang Zhuo , Lv Mingchen , Liu Yaping , Qin Jinlong , Fan Zhen , Du Jianzhong
Published: April 2024

Amyloid‐β (Aβ) pathway is positioned as the center for Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathophysiology. Viable drugs targeting Aβ pathway are developed with promising outcomes. Meanwhile, most current approaches are focused on the inhibition of Aβ fibrillization or elimination of Aβ plaques by immunotherapeutic strategies. Here, near‐infrared (NIR) photothermal polypyrrole nanoparticles coated with peptide‐polyphenol are developed to both inhibit the Aβ fibrillization and disaggregate Aβ fibrils synergistically. Aβ fibrillization is obviously inhibited after being treated with the photothermal polypyrrole nanoparticles. Besides inhibition of Aβ fibrillization, the amount of Aβ fibrils is gradually reduced with time by 38.0% when co‐incubated with polypyrrole nanoparticles, indicating desired disaggregation capability against Aβ fibrils. In addition, faster and more disaggregation of Aβ fibrils is observed when irradiation by NIR light. Meanwhile, cellular studies also verified that this nanoparticle is able to effectively reduce the cytotoxicity of Aβ fibrils toward PC12 cells through disaggregating toxic Aβ aggregates and maintaining integral membrane structure. Hence, this peptide‐polyphenol‐coated NIR photothermal polypyrrole nanoparticle provides a new perspective for the inhibition of Aβ fibrillization and disaggregation of Aβ fibrils, which can serve as a promising approach for anti‐amyloidosis.
Hybrid Bioactive Hydrogel Promotes Liver Regeneration through the Activation of Kupffer Cells and ECM Remodeling After Partial Hepatectomy
Authors: Pan Yixiao , Zheng Zhigang , Zhang Xueliang , Liu Shupeng , Zhuansun Shiya , Gong Shiming , Li Shilun , Wang Hongye , Chen Yiwen , Yang Taihua , Wu Huimin , Xue Feng , Xia Qiang , He Kang
Published: April 2024

Partial hepatectomy is an essential surgical technique used to treat advanced liver diseases such as liver tumors, as well as for performing liver transplants from living donors. However, postoperative complications such as bleeding, abdominal adhesions, wound infections, and inadequate liver regeneration pose significant challenges and increase morbidity and mortality rates. A self‐repairing mixed hydrogel (O5H2/Cu2+/SCCK), containing stem cell derived cytokine (SCCK) derived from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (HUMSCs) treated with the traditional Chinese remedy Tanshinone IIA (TSA), is developed. This SCCK, in conjunction with O5H2, demonstrates remarkable effects on Kupffer cell activation and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling. This leads to the secretion of critical growth factors promoting enhanced proliferation of hepatocytes and endothelial cells, thereby facilitating liver regeneration and repair after partial hepatectomy. Furthermore, the hydrogel, featuring macrophage‐regulating properties, effectively mitigates inflammation and oxidative stress damage in the incision area, creating an optimal environment for postoperative liver regeneration. The injectability and strong adhesion of the hydrogel enables rapid hemostasis at the incision site, while its physical barrier function prevents postoperative abdominal adhesions. Furthermore, the hydrogel's incorporation of Cu2+ provides comprehensive antibacterial effects, protecting against a wide range of bacteria types and reducing the chances of infections after surgery.
Nanofiber Peptides for Bacterial Trapping: A Novel Approach to Antibiotic Alternatives in Wound Infections
Authors: Yang Hao , Wang Jiufeng , Wang Xue , Wang Siyu , Xu Jieru , Shan Qiang , Wang Jingyi , Ma Xi , Zhu Yaohong
Published: April 2024

The pervasive employment of antibiotics has engendered the advent of drug‐resistant bacteria, imperiling the well‐being and health of both humans and animals. Infections precipitated by such multi‐resistant bacteria, especially those induced by methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), pervade hospital settings, constituting a grave menace to patient vitality. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have garnered considerable attention as a potent countermeasure against multidrug resistant bacteria. In preceding research endeavors, an insect‐derived antimicrobial peptide is identified that, while possessing antimicrobial attributes, manifested suboptimal efficacy against drug‐resistant Gram‐positive bacteria. To ameliorate this issue, this work enhances the antimicrobial capabilities of the initial β‐hairpin AMPs by substituting the structural sequence of the original AMPs with variant lengths of hydrophobic amino acid‐hydrophilic amino acid repeat units. Throughout this endeavor, this work has identified a number of peptides that possess highly effective antibacterial characteristics against a wide range of bacteria. Additionally, some of these peptides have the ability to self‐assemble into nanofibers, which then build networks in a distinctive manner to capture bacteria. Consequently, they represent prospective antibiotic alternatives for addressing wound infections engendered by drug‐resistant bacteria.
Heterojunction‐Mediated Co‐Adjustment of Band Structure and Valence State for Achieving Selective Regulation of Semiconductor Nanozymes
Authors: Huang Jiahao , Jia Xiaodan , Wang Yue , Qiao Yue , Jiang Xiue
Published: April 2024

Improving reaction selectivity is the next target for nanozymes to mimic natural enzymes. Currently, the majority of strategies in this field are exclusively applicable to metal‐organic‐based or organic‐based nanozymes, while limited in regulating metal oxide‐based semiconductor nanozymes. Herein, taking semiconductor Co3O4 as an example, a heterojunction strategy to precisely regulate nanozyme selectivity by simultaneously regulating three vital factors including band structure, metal valence state, and oxygen vacancy content is proposed. After introducing MnO2 to form Z‐scheme heterojunctions with Co3O4 nanoparticles, the catalase (CAT)‐like and peroxidase (POD)‐like activities of Co3O4 can be precisely regulated since the introduction of MnO2 affects the position of the conduction bands, preserves Co in a higher oxidation state (Co3+), and increases oxygen vacancy content, enabling Co3O4‐MnO2 exhibit improved CAT‐like activity and reduced POD‐like activity. This study proposes a strategy for improving reaction selectivity of Co3O4, which contributes to the development of metal oxide‐based semiconductor nanozymes.
Alternative Concepts for Extruded Power Cable Insulation: from Thermosets to Thermoplastics
Authors: Pourrahimi Amir Masoud , Mauri Massimiliano , D'Auria Silvia , Pinalli Roberta , Müller Christian
Published: April 2024

The most common type of insulation of extruded high‐voltage power cables is composed of low‐density polyethylene (LDPE), which must be crosslinked to adjust its thermomechanical properties. A major drawback is the need for hazardous curing agents and the release of harmful curing byproducts during cable production, while the thermoset nature complicates reprocessing of the insulation material. This perspective explores recent progress in the development of alternative concepts that allow to avoid byproducts through either click chemistry type curing of polyethylene‐based copolymers or the use of polyolefin blends or copolymers, which entirely removes the need for crosslinking. Moreover, polypropylene‐based thermoplastic formulations enable the design of insulation materials that can withstand higher cable operating temperatures and facilitate reprocessing by remelting once the cable reaches the end of its lifetime. Finally, polyethylene‐based covalent and non‐covalent adaptable networks are explored, which may allow to combine the advantages of thermoset and thermoplastic insulation materials in terms of thermomechanical properties and reprocessability.