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Association of mental health, quality of life, and SARS-CoV-2 infection in individuals in need of care: Results from a multicentre registry study

Objective Investigating the association between mental health, quality of life, and SARS-CoV-2 infection in individuals in need of care compared to independent living individuals. Individuals in need of care include both care home residents and those receiving care either through an outpatient care service or from family members. Methods This cross-sectional study assessed symptoms of depression (PHQ-9 > 9) and anxiety (GAD-7 > 9), quality of life (EQ-5D-5L, EQ-VAS), dementia (SIS), SARS-CoV-2 infection and socio-demographic variables in the total sample (N = 978, 64.4% female, mean age: 77.5 ± 13.8 years) and subgroups (study group, STG, n = 532, individuals in need of care, SARS-CoV-2 positive; control group 1, CG1, n = 213, individuals in need of care, SARS-CoV-2 negative; control group 2, CG2, n = 233, independent living individuals, SARS-CoV-2 positive). Multivariate logistic regressions were performed. Results Depressive symptoms (PHQ-9 > 9) were significantly associated with lower quality of life in the total sample (EQ-VAS: OR 0.96, 95% CI 0.95–0.97, p < 0.001; EQ-5D-5L: OR 0.14, 95% CI 0.07–0.29, p < 0.001) and across all subgroups. Anxiety (GAD-7 > 9) was significantly associated with lower quality of life in the total sample (EQ-VAS: OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.95–0.98, p < 0.001; EQ-5D-5L: OR 0.19, 95% CI 0.08–0.50, p < 0.001) and all subgroups except CG1. In individuals in need of care with COVID-19, depressive symptoms were additionally associated with symptomatic infection (OR 3.47, 95% CI 1.45–8.28, p = 0.005). Conclusion Depression and anxiety were significantly associated with reduced quality of life, irrespective of living environment or SARS-CoV-2 infection status, underscoring the need for targeted mental health interventions in older adults. While our model explained a considerable portion of the variability in depression and anxiety, further research is needed to account for the remaining proportion.

Flexible self-rectifying synapse array for energy-efficient edge multiplication in electrocardiogram diagnosis

Unraveling potential EGFR kinase inhibitors: Computational screening, molecular dynamics insights, and MMPBSA analysis for targeted cancer therapy development

EGFR is critical for tumor angiogenesis and cancer progression, but existing treatments like erlotinib face limitations such as acquired resistance and side effects. To address these issues, this study employs structure-based drug design techniques including virtual screening, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations to identify new small molecule inhibitors targeting the EGFR kinase domain. From an initial selection of 633,000 compounds from diverse databases, top candidates were identified based on their binding affinity and stability. The virtual screening and docking analyses revealed compounds with higher binding scores than erlotinib. Molecular dynamics simulations and Anisotropic Network Model (ANM) analysis uniquely report that EGFR undergoes significant conformational shifts: inward flap movements in the bound state stabilize a closed conformation, while outward movements in the free state result in a more open conformation. Among the identified inhibitors, compounds such as JFD00243, NPA015124, and others exhibited strong binding affinities and stable interactions with both active and inactive forms of EGFR. Notably, JFD00243 was effective in targeting EGFR in both active and inactive conformations. These findings suggest that the identified inhibitors could potentially overcome current treatment limitations and improve targeted cancer therapies by effectively inhibiting EGFR-mediated tumor angiogenesis.

Light-induced quantum tunnelling current in graphene

Abstract In the last decade, advancements in attosecond spectroscopy have allowed researchers to study and manipulate electron dynamics in condensed matter via ultrafast light fields, offering the possibility to realise ultrafast optoelectronic devices. Here, we report the generation of light-induced quantum tunnelling currents in graphene phototransistors by ultrafast laser pulses in an ambient environment. This tunnelling effect provides access to an instantaneous field-driven current, demonstrating a current switching effect (ON and OFF) on a ~630 attosecond scale (~1.6 petahertz speed). We show the tunability of the tunnelling current and enhancement of the graphene phototransistor conductivity by controlling the density of the photoexcited charge carriers at different pump laser powers. We exploited this capability to demonstrate various logic gates. The reported approach under ambient conditions is suitable for the development of petahertz optical transistors, lightwave electronics, and optical quantum computers.

Barriers, facilitators and potential solutions to implementing Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorder and Schizophrenia (KSADS) screening tool at Muhimbili National Hospital in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Background Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects 5% of adolescents globally. ADHD increases the child’s risk for adverse outcomes, including school failure, juvenile delinquency, substance abuse, and increased sexual risk behaviors. ADHD can be diagnosed in children using the Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia (KSADS). Semi-structured or structured diagnostic interviews, such as the KSADS-Present and Lifetime (PL) version by Kaufman and colleagues, are the gold standard in diagnosing psychiatric disorders like ADHD. Nevertheless, KSADS-PL is not used in routine clinical practice in Tanzania. There is no research exploring barriers and facilitators to use of KSADS-PL in resource limited areas including Tanzania. The study aimed to uncover barriers, facilitators and possible solutions related to psychiatric care providers’ routine use KSADS-PL at the Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH) in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania. Methods Between July and October 2019, we conducted semi-structured interviews that focused on providers’ perceptions of facilitators, barriers, and solutions regarding KSADS-PL integration into routine clinical practice, data were analyzed data using a qualitative thematic approach informed by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). Results Limited knowledge and lack of training about KSADS-PL represented the most mentioned perceived barrier for providers. Some providers reported inadequacy of both human and material resources, high workload, and limited physical space at the clinic. Facilitators included readiness for KSADS-PL implementation, and providers’ desires for uniform and standardized ways of detecting ADHD. Suggested solutions included involving hospital leaders, support for provider training, increasing staff, making KSADS-PL tools readily available, utilizing an online version of the tool, creating departmental standards, maximizing space at the clinic, and reorganizing clinic flow. Conclusion Findings suggest a need for innovative implementation science solutions such as multifaceted educational strategies focusing on ongoing trainings and supervisions to increase clinical knowledge, reorganizing clinic flow to increase the quality and duration of patient‑provider interaction, as well as role shifting and other planning strategies that may address barriers like understaffing.

Daily briefing: How skunk cabbages get their stink

Large-scale discovery of potent, compact and erythroid specific enhancers for gene therapy vectors

Job motivation and associated factors among health workers providing maternal and child health services in Wolaita Zone public hospitals, Southern Ethiopia; A mixed-method study

Background The quality of services provided to women, and children is significantly impacted by a lack of motivation and a shortage of competent healthcare staff.Low motivation has a negative impact on the performance of individual healthcare institutions, health workers, patient safety, and the health system as a whole. Objectives To assess job motivation and associated factors among health workers providing maternal and child health services in Wolaita Zone public hospitals, Southern Ethiopia, 2023. Methodology A facility-based cross-sectional mixed-method study was conducted on randomly selected 319 maternal and child health service providers followed by a purposive sampling technique for the qualitative study. A pretested, structured, self-administered questionnaire obtained from previously conducted studies and in-depth interviews were used to collect quantitative and qualitative studies, respectively. EpiDataV4.6 and Statistical Package for Social Science version 26 were used for quantitative data entry and analysis, respectively, and both bivariable and multivariable logistic regression were done. For qualitative data, OpenCode 4.03 software was utilized to conduct thematic content analysis. Result A total of 319 maternal and child health service providers participated in this study, with a 100% response rate. Of them, 142 (44.5%) (95%, CI: 39% - 50%) were motivated. Female gender, payment other than salary not paid on time [AOR (95% CI) 0.159 (0.046–0.549)], work overload[AOR (95% CI) 0.264 (0.083–0.836)], shortage of resources[AOR (95% CI) 0.385 (0.172–0.860)], limited training opportunities[AOR (95% CI) 0.104 (0.030–0.356)], and poor management and leadership of the organizations were statistically significant association between provider’s job motivations. Conclusion In this study, nearly forty-five percent of maternal and child health service providers weremotivated. Female gender,payment other than salary not paid on time, work overload, shortage of resources, limited training opportunities, and poor management and leadership of the organizations were significantly associated with providers’ job motivation.Therefore, timely paid other benefitpayments, accessing training opportunities, implementing work force strategy, and availing of resources are very important actions that should be taken.

Physicists turn lead into gold — for a fraction of a second

Carbamate-bond breaking on bulk oxides realizes highly efficient polyurethane depolymerization

The Sharklogger Network—monitoring Cayman Islands shark populations through an innovative citizen science program

The use of citizen science can be a cost-effective tool in conservation science but mostly relies on the collation of incidental sighting reports. This study describes the design, operation, and findings of a novel, closely-guided citizen science program (the ‘Sharklogger Network’) in the Cayman Islands. Participants from the recreational SCUBA diving community used a standardized, effort-based protocol to monitor local coastal shark populations. Over two years (2017–2018) a total of 69 participants conducted 24,442 dives across 472 dives sites and recorded 4,666 shark sightings from eight shark species, of which Caribbean reef shark, nurse shark, and hammerhead spp. were the most frequently observed and encountered throughout the year. The data from dive logs provided evidence for species-specific distribution and abundance patterns across and within islands, indicating a greater abundance of sharks in areas with less anthropogenic activity and with a greater exposure to strong currents, regardless of whether the area was an MPA or not. While both Caribbean reef sharks and nurse sharks showed species-specific depth and habitat preferences, the recording of recognizable individuals showed that some individuals of both species have relatively small home ranges and high site-fidelity to specific areas. The study also provided the first confirmation of reproductive behaviour in both Caribbean reef and nurse sharks taking place in summer (May–August). Experience showed that along with generating valuable data the program, by engaging local stakeholders, also enhanced public awareness of shark conservation issues. This study demonstrates that this citizen science methodology can be an affordable and non-invasive tool for the reliable long-term monitoring of shark populations.

Google AI better than human doctors at diagnosing rashes from pictures

Integrating genomics and transcriptomics reveals candidate genes affecting loin muscle area in Huaxi cattle

Loin muscle area (LMA) is an indicator of carcass composition and is related to weight gain, animal musculature and meat quality traits. Therefore, integrating multi-omics data to reveal candidate genes affecting LMA has attracted extensive attention. We used the combined analysis method of GWAS and RNA-seq to find the candidate genes that affect the size of LMA. The association of 770K SNPs with the LMA captured four significant SNPs within or near three genes. Additionally, seven overlapping genes regarding LMA were determined via the analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). There is an overlapping gene (CD93) between the results of GWAS and DEGs. Through functional enrichment analysis of the above genes, candidate genes were identified as THBD, CD93, RIMS2, PLP1, SNCA, and NDUFS8, and it was found that they mainly affected the size of LMA by affecting muscle fiber diameter, muscle cell development, differentiation, and function. The findings provide valuable molecular insights into the mechanisms that influence LMA content in beef cattle.

scRNA-seq and scATAC-seq analyses highlight the role of TNF signaling pathway in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease model mice

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a prevalent and progressive form of respiratory disease in which patients exhibit persistent respiratory damage affecting the alveoli and/or airway due to exposure to toxic gases or particulate matter. C57BL/6 mice were exposed to cigarette smoke and lipopolysaccharide to establish a COPD model mice, followed by scATAC (Assay for Transposase Accessible Chromatin) sequencing and scRNA sequencing of lung tissue samples. The resultant data revealed consistent findings between scATAC-seq and scRNA-seq regarding cell types, differentially expressed genes, and signaling pathways in COPD model mice. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) signaling pathway enrichment was evident in the scRNA-seq and scATAC-seq datasets, with similar trends in monocytes/macrophages, dendritic cells, and B cells. In COPD model mice, significant tumor necrosis factor receptor 1 (TNFR1) upregulation and high levels of activity related to cellular communication were observed, and significant increases in Il1b, Csf1, and Bcl3 site accessibility were evident in cells. These findings suggest that the TNF signaling pathway maybe associated with COPD.

Long-term continuous no-till corn-soybean systems: Examining soil carbon sequestration and nitrogen accumulation across various pools

Tillage practices influence the soil’s capacity as either a sink or source of carbon (C) within agroecosystems. The objective of the study was to assess the effects of no-till (NT) management over 0, 6, 20, and 35 years in a rainfed corn (Zea mays)–soybean (Glycine max) system, incorporating cereal rye (Secale cereale L.) as a cover crop, on soil organic C (SOC) sequestration and total N accumulation across different pools. The results showed significant increases under NT compared to conventional tillage (CT), including SOC (14–69%), total N (16–60%), microbial biomass C (SMB; 44–101%), active C (11–33%), passive C (15–72%), particulate organic C (POC; 43–173%), and particulate organic N (PON; 29–135%). While NT exhibited higher basal respiration (BR) rates, it significantly reduced C loss via the metabolic quotient, calculated as specific maintenance respiration (qCO2), by 7.9–29.4% compared to CT. Ratios of passive C to active C increased under long-term NT, indicating a higher accumulation of stable SOC fraction, which consequently reduced soil bulk density (ρb) compared to CT. Using the fixed depth approach, SOC, SMB, active C, and POC were sequestered at rates of 587.4 ± 134.1, 10.1 ± 4.1, 5.3 ± 1.8, and 382.2 ± 55 kg ha ⁻ ¹ yr ⁻ ¹ in the 0–15 cm depth, and at 1.6 ± 0.5, 4.1 ± 1.4, 54 ± 8, and 192 ± 64 kg ha ⁻ ¹ yr ⁻ ¹ in the 15–30 cm depth. Likewise, total N and PON accumulation rates were 72.2 ± 18.4 and 14.1 ± 5.5 kg ha ⁻ ¹ yr ⁻ ¹ at 0–15 cm, and 15 ± 5 and 4.3 ± 1.6 kg ha ⁻ ¹ yr ⁻ ¹ at 15–30 cm. Similar but variable rates of SOC sequestration and total N accumulation were observed at both depths when using the equivalent mass approach compared to the fixed depth method. Adjusting for soil mass equivalence to account for ρb variability in fixed depths provides a more realistic estimation of SOC and total N stocks in different pools, as the fixed depth approach tends to overestimate these stocks. Our findings demonstrate that long-term NT consistently facilitates SOC sequestration and total N accumulation in different pools, with these benefits distributed non-linearly across distinct SOC and total N pools at the 0–15 cm depth and linearly at the 15–30 cm depth in rainfed corn-soybean systems.

‘Orwellian’: planetary scientists outraged over deletion of research records

Enhancing operational efficiency through overall equipment efficiency optimization and Kaizen initiatives

This case study aims to investigate the causes of low efficiency in a carton production line by calculating Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE). A typical carton factory has been chosen for this study, which has two production lines, namely finished goods and corrugated boards. The define, measure, analyze, improve, and control approach is applied while implementing Six Sigma principles such as Kaizen, fishbone diagrams, and 5W+1H as its systematic procedure. The analysis involves estimating four machines’ average OEE across 12 shifts. A cost-effective method is applied to resolve the problems that cause the lines to be less efficient. By applying the proposed method, the OEE becomes more efficient by 29% for finished goods and 9% for corrugated boards. Value stream mapping has been used to track the improvements. It is found that emphasizing higher OEE values enhances operational performance, leading to better efficiency, power usage, cycle time, and equipment repair.

Burnout and risk factors among anesthesia residents and fellows in a conflict-affected context: A national cross-sectional survey

Background Burnout is an occupational hazard caused by chronic exposure to excessive work-related stress, negatively impacting both clinicians’ well-being and patient safety. Anesthesiology is particularly demanding, and this stress is further exacerbated in regions affected by conflict, where residents and fellows are confronted with additional stressors beyond the usual challenges of medical training. This study aims to assess the proportion and predictors of burnout among anesthesia residents and fellows in Lebanon, a conflict-affected context, by identifying specific drivers of burnout in this population, while also evaluating their association with sociodemographic characteristics. Methods A cross-sectional study involving electronic, voluntary, and anonymous survey was sent to all Lebanese anesthesiology residents and fellows at all levels of training, between May and October 2024. The survey utilized the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI) in addition to other questions. Bivariate and multivariable analyses identified predictors of CBI subscales (personal, work-related, and client-related burnout respectively). An alpha of 0.05 was used to determine statistical significance. Results Approximately 71% of participants reported personal burnout, with 32% classified as having a high level. Additionally, 68% reported work-related burnout, with 22% in the high category, and 36% experienced client-related burnout, with 5% classified as high. Moreover, experiencing mental health problems, reporting the need for pharmaceutical or psychological assistance, living with family and covering night shifts were found to be significantly and positively associated with different burnout dimensions. Conclusion Burnout levels among anesthesiology residents in conflict-affected areas appear elevated in reference to international studies, which is concerning given the additional stressors associated with ongoing regional conflict. The continuous escalation of these challenges is likely to exacerbate burnout over time. Targeted interventions to manage burnout are crucial for trainees’ well-being and the effective functioning of medical institutions, particularly in conflict-affected regions where the stressors are compounded.

Parental involvement in school-based mental health interventions for young people in low-resource settings: A qualitative study from Zimbabwe and Ghana

Background Young people in low-resource settings are disproportionately affected by mental health problems, yet access to formal mental healthcare remains limited. However, schools in these regions have increasingly become the primary settings for mental health interventions, offering an accessible and supportive environment for mental health services. Recognising the critical role schools play in providing mental health services for young people, there has been a growing emphasis on involving parents in school-based mental health (SBMH) interventions in low-resource settings. This study explored the mechanisms for effectively involving parents in SBMH interventions for young people in Zimbabwe and Ghana. Methods Cross-sectional qualitative research was conducted in Harare, Zimbabwe and Navrongo, Ghana. This study is a sub-analysis of a larger formative qualitative study which aimed to identify evidence for adapting interventions for depression and anxiety for young people aged 15–24 in Zimbabwe, and 15–18 in Ghana, and test the feasibility of the adapted intervention. We utilised semi-structured in-depth interviews, key informant interviews and focus group discussions with various stakeholders until data saturation was achieved. All interviews were audiotaped and later transcribed verbatim and translated to English for analysis. Data for this study were inductively coded and analysed using thematic analysis. Results Effective mechanisms for engaging parents in SBMH include routine parent-teacher meetings, interface meetings between parents and school-based mental healthcare providers, and direct parental participation in sessions. However, while parental involvement is key for SBMH interventions, it can be problematic. In some cases, parents may unintentionally breach their children’s privacy and confidentiality or may be the source of their children’s mental health problems. Conclusion The study’s findings underscore the importance of parents as vital partners in SBMH interventions. Given the positive impact of parental involvement, it is essential to incorporate parents into the design and implementation of these interventions. By leveraging the insights from this study, interventionists can develop and implement more effective and low-cost SBMH interventions, which can significantly improve mental health outcomes for young people in low-resource settings.

Contributing to evidence-based veterinary medicine: A qualitative study of veterinary professionals’ views and experiences of client-owned companion animal research

Research on the outcomes of veterinary treatments in dogs, cats and horses has important benefits for these animals and their owners. However, this information is not always available, and the evidence base is often lower-quality than in human medicine. To identify ways to improve the generation of evidence, we investigated the views of veterinary professionals about research involving companion animal patients and their owners. This qualitative study used semi-structured interviews with veterinary surgeons and registered veterinary nurses working in UK companion animal clinical practice. Interviews were conducted with 20 veterinary professionals from different clinical settings including both those with and without previous experience of research involving animals. Analyses revealed that veterinary professionals valued evidence-based information to help them make informed decisions about treatment with owners. However, there was often not enough available evidence. Veterinary professionals were willing to help produce this research evidence. However, lack of time and resources were key challenges and in addition, they did not always feel they had the necessary research skills, experience and support. Some participants also found it difficult to discuss participation in research with owners of their veterinary patients. They also had concerns about the amount and type of extra information they would need to give to owners. Veterinary professionals also faced a dilemma as their key role is to protect the welfare of animals that they treat, yet felt that there was the potential for some animals assigned to receive a specific treatment as part of a research study to be disadvantaged. Companion animal research has important benefits for veterinary patients, their owners and for veterinary professionals. Based on our findings, more funding, improved research training, resources, support networks and changes to current regulations are needed. Improved evidence would assist veterinary professionals and owners when making informed decisions around veterinary care.