bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Chronic pain among primary fentanyl users: The concept of self‐medication
Authors: Kim Jane J. , Hayati Dianah , Zamany Milad , Choi Fiona , Jang Kerry , Ignaszewski Martha , Azar Pouya , Krausz Michael 
Published: November 2024

AbstractBackgroundChronic pain is among the leading causes of disability worldwide, of which only a small percentage of patients receive adequate treatment for. Non‐prescribed opioid analgesics are commonly sought out in effort to alleviate unrelieved pain. This study assesses the prevalence and correlates of chronic pain among primary fentanyl users.MethodsA cross‐sectional and structured survey was conducted with 200 adults who reported fentanyl as their drug of choice from a Vancouver acute care hospital. Presence and levels of chronic pain were determined through self‐report.ResultsThe majority of participants (n = 130, 72.6%) reported having chronic pain in the past 6 months, with the mean level of pain on a typical day to be 7.6 out of a scale of 10 (SD = 1.9). Majority (n = 85, 65.4%) reported using street opioids to self‐medicate, while only 9 (6.9%) reported that their chronic pain was unrelated. Regression analysis indicated that increasing age and co‐use of cannabis and opioids were independent associated factors of chronic pain. Higher levels of reported pain on a typical day were further associated with age and self‐medication.ConclusionsThe findings of this study demonstrate a significant association between self‐medication and chronic pain among primary fentanyl users in British Columbia. For these individuals, inadequate pain relief may drive continued opioid use, which in turn may increase risks of treatment discontinuation and overdose. Appropriate pain management strategies are crucial to avoid opioid misuse and decrease the large societal burden caused by chronic pain.SignificanceOur work points to the high prevalence of self‐reported chronic pain among individuals who primarily use fentanyl. Among those with self‐reported fentanyl use and chronic pain, self‐medication with street opioids was found to be common and associated with higher reported pain levels on a typical day. This highlights the need for pain management strategies to be integrated into opioid dependence treatment and more research in the overlap of pain and fentanyl use.
VOC Detection with Zinc Oxide Gas Sensors: A Review of Fabrication, Performance, and Emerging Applications
Authors: Waqas Alam Mir , Sharma Anil , Sharma Anjana , Kumar Sushil , Mohammad Junaid Pir , Awad Mohammed 
Published: November 2024

AbstractEnergy‐efficient, high‐specificity gas sensors provide practical suitability for stability and response factors. The recognition of ignitable gases (methane (CH4), propane (C3H8), and hydrogen (H2) and harmful gases (carbon oxide (CO) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S)) in an enclosed and out‐of‐door space are essential to safeguard the human lives and infrastructural spaces. One of the crucial conductive‐type metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) gas sensors yielding wide applications is zinc oxide (ZnO). This study highlights the various types of ZnO gas sensors, their fabrication techniques, and specific vital characterizations. The devices based on MOS are utilized to sense various target gases through redox reactions. The variation in oxide surface with target gas interactions is transduced to a change of sensor conductance. This review also provides insight into integrating ZnO gas sensors with technologies such as materials engineering, the Internet of things and big data. Moreover, this review addresses ZnO gas sensors’ challenges and future directions.
Experimental investigation of enhanced thermal performance of solar air collectors through optimized selection of manufacturing materials: Energy, exergy, economic, and environmental analysis
Authors: Handawy M. Koraiem M. , Driss Zied , Khelifa Abdelkrim , Attia Mohammed El Hadi , Abdelgaied Mohamed , Harby K. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThe current study aims to experimentally investigate the thermal performance of three identical solar air collectors manufactured from three different metals: aluminum, zinc, and steel. The study conducted environmental and economic analyses of the three proposed solar air collectors over a month. The aluminum solar air collector demonstrated superior performance, achieving a maximum thermal efficiency of 24.46%, while the steel and zinc solar air collectors recorded thermal efficiencies of 21.57% and 18.16%, respectively. The exergy efficiency ranges for aluminum from 0.95% to 13.54%, zinc absorber plate exhibits from 0.63% to 11.89%, and steel from 0.6% to 9.98%. The aluminum solar air collector revealed high monthly cost savings of about $1429.6/month, followed by zinc ($1203.8) and steel ($963.4) solar air collectors. Environmental analysis to showed savings entering the atmosphere per month showed that the aluminum reduced about 19,795 kg CO2/month, Zinc solar air heat 16,668 kg CO2/month, and the steel solar air collector recorded 13,339 kg CO2/month. In this study, the absorber plate made of aluminum was the most efficient material, followed by zinc and steel. That confirms its suitability for designing efficient solar air heating systems in areas with high solar radiation intensity, such as Tunisia, and provides a clear direction for future research and development in manufacturing solar air collectors.
Acute depletion of complement C3 with cobra venom factor attenuates memory deficits induced by status epilepticus
Authors: Schartz Nicole D. , Li Yibo , Sommer Alexandra L. , Brewster Amy L. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractObjectiveStatus epilepticus (SE) significantly increases the risk for the development of unprovoked seizures, memory loss, and temporal lobe epilepsy. Our prior studies showed that SE increases complement C3 signaling in the hippocampus, which parallels memory deficits. Additionally, C3 knockout (KO) mice were protected against SE‐induced memory impairments, suggesting a mechanistic role for C3 in this pathophysiology. In this study, we utilized cobra venom factor (CVF), a structural analog of C3 that results in its depletion, to investigate the protective effects of post‐SE C3 ablation on memory deficits that develop during epileptogenesis.MethodsSE was induced in male rats using the chemoconvulsant pilocarpine. Two weeks later, control (C) and SE rats were treated with either vehicle (V) or CVF. Recognition memory was assessed using the novel object recognition (NOR) test in four groups (C + V, C + CVF, SE + V, and SE + CVF). Immunoblotting was used to measure hippocampal protein levels of C3 along with synaptic, astrocyte, and blood–brain barrier (BBB) stability markers, Psd95, GFAP, and albumin, respectively.ResultsIn the NOR test, rats in the C + V and C + CVF groups spent more time exploring the novel object. SE + V rats explored both objects equally, while SE + CVF rats spent significantly more on the novel object, suggesting a rescue of cognitive performance by CVF. While CVF‐mediated C3 depletion did not restore normal protein levels of Psd95 or GFAP in hippocampi of SE + CVF rats, CVF treatment attenuated SE‐induced extravasation of albumin, suggesting potential rescue of BBB stability.SignificanceOur findings indicate that acute C3 depletion with CVF can attenuate memory deficits that develop during SE‐induced epileptogenesis. This finding further suggests that targeting C3 could hold promise in addressing cognitive comorbidities associated with SE and acquired epilepsy.Plain Language SummaryA long‐lasting seizure, known as status epilepticus (SE), can raise the chance of having more seizures in the future and can lead to memory problems. While the exact reasons for these issues are not completely known, it is believed that brain inflammation might be involved. In this study, we show that the activation of the body's immune response, especially a part called the C3 component, plays a role in the memory problems that occur after an episode of SE.
A Deep Reinforcement Learning‐Based Physical Layer Security Enhancement Design for RIS‐Aided mmWave Communications With Practical Constraints
Authors: Tu Qingqing , Dong Zheng , Xie Chenfei , Zou Xianbing , Wei Ning , Li Ya , Xu Fei 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTReconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS) offer new opportunities for enhancing security in millimeter‐wave (mmWave) communications. However, some significant practical challenges still need to be addressed before their extensive implementation in future wireless networks. This article considers the practical constraints in a secure mmWave system aided by distributed RISs, including imperfect channel state information (CSI) in dynamic channel conditions and high complexity of non‐convex optimization in complex environments. To address these challenges, we propose a robust and efficient physical layer security (PLS) enhancement algorithm based on the deep reinforcement learning (DRL) framework to effectively tackle the issues of limited dynamic adaptation and high computational complexity encountered with conventional optimization methods. This algorithm, utilizing an actor‐critic architecture, can dynamically track channel variations and optimize strategies for improved system secrecy rate. Numerical simulations demonstrate that the proposed DRL‐based PLS enhancement algorithm outperforms non‐convex optimization benchmarks in robustness and efficiency for secure mmWave communication systems aided by distributed RISs and affected by imperfect CSI.
DSDOS Cloud: A Decentralized Secure Data Outsourcing System With Hybrid Encryption, Blockchain Smart Contract‐Based Access Control, and Hash Authentication Codes for Cloud Security
Authors: Neela K. L. 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTWith the increasing trend of outsourcing data to cloud services, ensuring data security and privacy has become crucial. Typically, data are stored on cloud servers in encrypted form to mitigate risks. However, accessing the encrypted data requires an access key distributed by a third party. If this third party is untrustworthy, it poses a significant security threat to the system. To address this challenge, we propose a Decentralized Secure Data Outsourcing System (DSDOS) that uses blockchain technology to ensure data security and privacy. The DSDOS system comprises three modules: data security and privacy, access control and authorization, and data integrity and availability. The data security and privacy module uses a hybrid encryption scheme that combines Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), partially homomorphic encryption (PHE), and Diffie–Hellman (DH) to ensure secure data storage and access. The access control and authorization module uses a blockchain‐based smart contract system to manage access to the encrypted data. The data integrity and availability module uses hash‐based message authentication code (HMAC) to ensure that the data are not tampered with and is always available. We conducted a security and performance analysis of the DSDOS system and found that it outperforms previous schemes in terms of security and performance. The DSDOS system is a secure and privacy‐preserving data outsourcing system that can be used to mitigate the security risks associated with traditional cloud storage systems.
Essentials and Pertinence of Cold Plasma in Essential Oils, Metal–Organic Frameworks and Agriculture
Authors: Khan Mujahid Ameen , Akram Sumia , Naeem Rabia , Kamal Muhammad Umair , Muhammad Gulzar , Mushtaq Muhammad , Anwar Farooq , Hosseini‐Bandegharaei Ahmad 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTCold atmospheric pressure plasma (CAPP) comprises an ensemble of ionized gas, neutral particles, and/or reactive species. Electricity is frequently used to produce CAPP via a variety of techniques, including plasma jets, corona discharges, dielectric barrier discharges, and glow discharges. The type and flow rates of the carrier gas(es), temperature, pressure, and vacuum can all be altered to control the desired properties of the CAPP. Since a few decades ago, CAPP has become a widely used technology with applications in every walk of life. The plasma activated liquid mediums like water, ethanol, and methanol have been merged as novel sterilizers. With recent advancements in material science, particularly work on metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), essential oils, and agricultural technologies, CAPP has become a vital component of these advancements. Likewise, CAPP has been found as a green and benign technology to induce early seed germination and plant development. This review covers the critical components of CAPP, the production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, and mechanisms by which CAPP‐based technologies are applied to agricultural products, MOFs, and essential oils.
Supramammillary Theta Oscillations in Water Maze Learning
Authors: Young Calvin K. , Ruan Ming , McNaughton Neil 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTThe supramammillary nucleus (SuM) in the hypothalamus, in conjunction with the hippocampus (HPC), has been implicated through theta oscillations in various brain functions ranging from locomotion to learning and memory. While the indispensable role of the SuM in HPC theta generation in anesthetized animals is well‐characterized, the SuM is not always necessary for HPC theta in awake animals. This raises questions on the precise behavioral relevance of SuM theta activity and its interaction with HPC theta activity. We used simultaneously recorded SuM and HPC local field potentials (LFPs) in a one‐day water maze (WM) learning paradigm in rats (n = 8), to show that theta activities recorded from the SuM itself were not positively correlated with locomotor (swimming) speed nor acceleration, but the individual relationship between acceleration and SuM theta frequency is correlated with WM learning rates. In contrast, we found that SuM‐HPC theta phase coherence is strongly correlated with swimming speed and acceleration, but these do not relate to WM learning. SuM‐HPC‐directed coherence analysis demonstrated no swimming kinetics nor learning rate associations, but revealed that periods of high SuM‐HPC theta phase coherence are driven by the SuM at relatively low (~6.2 Hz) frequencies. Additionally, we demonstrate that the SuM and the HPC also engage in non‐random, non‐coherent phase coupling modes where either structure preferentially displays a ± 2 Hz difference with the other. Our data indicate SuM theta LFPs do not appear to be related to either speed coding or spatial learning in swimming rats and display non‐random out‐of‐phase theta frequency coupling with the HPC.
Effects of implementing mechanical cardiopulmonary resuscitation devices on out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest patients in Taiwan
Authors: Mi Le Jie‐Ren , Hsieh Chien‐Chieh , Jaw Fu‐Shan 
Published: November 2024

AbstractBackgroundOut‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) is the leading cause of death worldwide. Mechanical cardiopulmonary resuscitation (M‐CPR) devices were successively introduced in Taiwan to enhance the quality and efficiency of OHCA resuscitation. This study investigated the impact of the introduced M‐CPR devices on OHCA resuscitation outcomes and assessed potential disparities between six special municipalities and other counties and cities.MethodsThis study was approved by the Institutional Review Board of the Far Eastern Memorial Hospital (number: 113116‐F). Data from the National Fire Agency of the Ministry of the Interior between 2009 and 2021 were analyzed for return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) rate, discharge rate, and ROSC to hospital discharge. Linear regression evaluated changes before and after 2017 while pooled t‐tests compared the two datasets. Chi‐squared analysis and repeated measure Analysis of Variance assessed potential disparities between the six special municipalities and other counties/cities from 2018 to 2021.ResultsPost‐2017 data displayed significantly improved ROSC and discharge rates with positive trends in linear regression analysis. Pooled t‐tests revealed statistically significant differences in 2017 and 2021 ROSC and discharge rates (p < 0.05) while not between ROSC and hospital discharge (p = 0.117). Additionally, six special municipalities exhibited higher ROSC and discharge rates. While M‐CPR devices enhance resuscitation quality, overall recovery depends on multiple factors that need to be addressed comprehensively to optimize patient outcomes.ConclusionThis study showed that the introduction of mechanical CPRs has been successful in improving the ROSC and discharge rates of OHCA patients in Taiwan, while confounding factors are essential for optimizing patient outcomes and improving ROSC rates following cardiac arrest.
Adverse maternal and fetal outcomes among tribal pregnant women suffering from sickle cell disease: A retrospective cohort study in a community‐based hospital situated in a tribal block of Gujarat, India
Authors: Dave Kapilkumar , Desai Shrey , Desai Tushar , Desai Gayatri 
Published: November 2024

AbstractObjectiveThe study presents the risk of the maternal‐fetal morbidity and mortality among one of the largest cohort of sickle cell disease (SCD) pregnancies in India and reports the epidemiology of the maternal morbidity.MethodsThis was a retrospective cohort study conducted at Kasturba Maternity Hospital, SEWA Rural, in the tribal area of Gujarat, India. All pregnant women admitted to the Hospital between 2016 and 2021 were screened for SCD, and their maternal‐fetal morbidities were recorded throughout the pregnancy. We quantified risk of maternal‐fetal morbidity and mortality among SCD, trait and normal pregnancies after adjusting for potential confounders using Poisson and logistic regression.ResultsA total of 24 256 delivered during the study period, with 354 (1.5%) and 4216 (17.4%) suffering from SCD and trait, respectively. After adjusting for potential confounders, the women with SCD pregnancy had higher risk of maternal death (adjusted‐odds‐ratio [AOR] 13.7, 95% CI: 4.5–42.7), anemia (AOR 6.8, 95% CI: 4.5–10.2), severe anemia (AOR 4.3, 95% CI: 3.3–5.6), preterm delivery (AOR 4.5, 95% CI: 3.6–5.7), cesarean section (AOR 5.5, 95% CI: 4.7–7.0), stillbirth (AOR 3.4, 95% CI: 2.3–5.3), and low birth weight (AOR 3.1, 95% CI: 2.4–39) compared to normal pregnancies. Maternal morbidities occurred throughout the pregnancy; however, the risk was highest during the last month of pregnancy. Pregnant women who had severe manifestation of SCD before the pregnancy were at higher risk of developing maternal morbidities.ConclusionWe concluded that SCD might be an independent risk‐factor for developing maternal‐fetal morbidities. The SCD pregnancies with prior severe manifestations must be carefully managed during the last month of pregnancy when the risk is highest.
Surface functionalizing for high‐temperature ceramic fuel cells using electrochemical deposition technique
Authors: Nam Seongwoo , Kim Jinwook , Kim Hyunseung , Jung WooChul 
Published: November 2024

AbstractElectrochemical deposition technique, a method widely recognized for its precision and versatility in the electronics industry, is gaining attraction in the energy field, particularly in developing solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). Its ability to deposit metal compounds with nanostructures under simple ambient conditions makes it invaluable for modifying conventional electrodes with refined morphologies and compositions. In this mini‐review, we explore the principles of electrochemical deposition and highlight its recent applications in SOFC technology. Our focus lies on its pivotal role in fabricating coating layers or catalysts on electrodes with improved functionalities to build more efficient and durable fuel cells. Furthermore, we discuss emerging strategies for electrode surface modification and the potential of electrochemical deposition in advancing SOFC design and functionality. Our review also outlines future research directions aimed at harnessing and expanding the capabilities of electrochemical deposition in energy conversion applications.
Effectiveness, efficacy, acceptability, and feasibility of trauma‐informed depression, anxiety, and substance use prevention programs for young people aged 12–25 years: A mixed‐methods systematic review
Authors: Bailey Sasha , Newton Nicola , Perry Yael , Grummitt Lucinda , Tiko Raaya , Baams Laura , Barrett Emma 
Published: November 2024

AbstractBackgroundMental ill‐health and substance use bear significant public health burden on young people. Prevention is key. Trauma‐informed approaches to prevention of mental ill‐health and substance use demonstrate significant promise, yet it is unclear how well existing approaches work for young people targeting mental ill‐health and substance use. This review aimed to assess the effectiveness, feasibility, and acceptability of trauma‐informed mental ill‐health and/or substance use prevention programs for young people.MethodsWe searched the PsycINFO, CINAHL, Embase, MEDLINE, and Cochrane Library reference databases for peer‐reviewed studies of trauma‐informed mental ill‐health and/or substance use prevention programs for young people published between 2013 and 2022. Studies in any language were included and reference lists of included articles were scanned for additional studies of relevance.ResultsIn total, 30 studies were included in this review, comprising five randomized controlled trials (RCTs), seven non‐RCTs, 10 quasi‐experimental designs, and eight qualitative studies. Among the 30 studies, 27 unique trauma‐informed prevention interventions were detailed. Eighteen studies reported statistically significant decreases in mental ill‐health, and two studies reported significant decreases in substance use outcomes among participants, up to 6 months following the interventions. Most preventative interventions with statistically significant effects were selective (rather than universal or indicated) in their approach (n = 10, 55%). Broad acceptability and feasibility of trauma‐informed prevention programs was observed among studies reporting this information though most quantitative studies were at high risk of bias and/or did not include a control group, whilst qualitative studies tended to report research conducted without a priori research aims.DiscussionThis review synthesizes for the first‐time evidence on the effectiveness (or efficacy), feasibility, and acceptability of trauma‐informed mental ill‐health and/or substance use programs for young people, especially for those exposed to traumatic or adverse experiences. While there are promising efficacy outcomes, further research conducting rigorous, well‐powered RCTs is required for large‐scale evaluation and scaling of the potential preventative benefits of such programs.