bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regulations in the United States: requirements and guidance for ultraviolet disinfection of drinking water
Authors: Cotton Christine , Passantino Laurel
Published: March 2005

In July 2003, the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) published a proposed regulation, the Long Term 2 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule (LT2ESWTR), which included requirements pertaining to ultraviolet (UV) disinfection. In addition the USEPA released the proposed UV Disinfection Guidance Manual (UVDGM) that provides implementation guidelines for UV disinfection. Since July 2003, USEPA has revised several elements, which are also described. This paper summarizes proposed regulatory requirements in the United States (US) that pertain to disinfection of drinking water using UV light and the recommendations in USEPA's UVDGM. Although this paper does not provide the detailed UVDGM recommendations, it highlights important elements of the proposed regulation and guidance, including required UV doses, UV facility design and operation, and UV reactor validation. The US regulations and guidance do not directly affect the implementation of UV facilities in other countries; however, the information provided in this paper provides a different perspective for worldwide facilities and regulatory agencies to consider. Key words: ultraviolet, disinfection, regulations, guidance, UV facility design, validation, UV dose.
STRUCTURE AND PHYSIOLOGIC FUNCTION OF THE LOW-DENSITY LIPOPROTEIN RECEPTOR
Authors: Jeon Hyesung , Blacklow Stephen C.
Published: March 2005

▪ Abstract  The low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) is responsible for uptake of cholesterol-carrying lipoprotein particles into cells. The receptor binds lipoprotein particles at the cell surface and releases them in the low-pH environment of the endosome. The focus of the current review is on biochemical and structural studies of the LDLR and its ligands, emphasizing how structural features of the receptor dictate the binding of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and beta-migrating forms of very low-density lipoprotein (β-VLDL) particles, how the receptor releases bound ligands at low pH, and how the cytoplasmic tail of the LDLR interfaces with the endocytic machinery.
Sphingosine 1-phosphate prevents platelet-activating factor-induced increase in hydraulic conductivity in rat mesenteric venules: pertussis toxin sensitive
Authors: Minnear Fred L. , Zhu Longkun , He Pingnian
Published: March 2005

Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) is a biologically active lipid. In vitro, S1P tightens the endothelial barrier, as assessed by a rapid increase in electrical resistance and a decrease in solute permeability. We hypothesized that this activity of S1P would also occur in vivo. Hydraulic conductivity ( Lp), an assessment of endothelial barrier function, was measured in individually perfused venules in rat mesenteries. S1P (1 μM) decreased basal Lp by 63% when basal Lp was between 3.6 and 4.1 × 10−7 cm·s−1·cmH2O−1 but showed no effect when basal Lp was below 2 × 10−7 cm·s−1·cmH2O−1. Under either condition, S1P blocked the sixfold increase in Lp induced by platelet-activating factor (PAF, 10 nM). Perfusion of venules with pertussis toxin (0.1 μg/ml), a specific inhibitor of the inhibitory G protein, Gi, for 3 h did not affect basal Lp or the increased Lp induced by PAF. Pertussis toxin, however, significantly attenuated the inhibitory action of S1P on the PAF-induced increase in Lp, indicating the involvement of the Gi protein. Measurement of endothelial cytoplasmic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) in venules loaded with fura-2 AM showed that S1P alone transiently increased basal endothelial [Ca2+]i (from 89 nM to 193 nM) but had no effect on the magnitude and time course of the PAF-induced increase in endothelial [Ca2+]i. These results indicate that S1P functions in vivo to prevent the PAF-induced increase in microvessel permeability. The inhibitory action of S1P involves the pertussis toxin-sensitive Gi protein and is not mediated by prevention of the PAF-induced increase in endothelial [Ca2+]i.
Cardiac-specific attenuation of natriuretic peptide A receptor activity accentuates adverse cardiac remodeling and mortality in response to pressure overload
Authors: Patel Jeetendra B. , Valencik Maria L. , Pritchett Allison M. , Burnett John C. , McDonald John A. , Redfield Margaret M.
Published: March 2005

Atrial (ANP) and brain (BNP) natriuretic peptides are hormones of myocardial cell origin. These hormones bind to the natriuretic peptide A receptor (NPRA) throughout the body, stimulating cGMP production and playing a key role in blood pressure control. Because NPRA receptors are present on cardiomyocytes, we hypothesized that natriuretic peptides may have direct autocrine or paracrine effects on cardiomyocytes or adjacent cardiac cells. Because both natriuretic peptides and NPRA gene expression are upregulated in states of pressure overload, we speculated that the effects of the natriuretic peptides on cardiac structure and function would be most apparent after pressure overload. To attenuate cardiomyocyte NPRA activity, transgenic mice with cardiac specific expression of a dominant-negative (DN-NPRA) mutation (HCAT D 893A) in the NPRA receptor were created. Cardiac structure and function were assessed (avertin anesthesia) in the absence and presence of pressure overload produced by suprarenal aortic banding. In the absence of pressure overload, basal and BNP-stimulated guanylyl cyclase activity assessed in cardiac membrane fractions was reduced. However, systolic blood pressure, myocardial cGMP, log plasma ANP levels, and ventricular structure and function were similar in wild-type (WT-NPRA) and DN-NPRA mice. In the presence of pressure overload, myocardial cGMP levels were reduced, and ventricular hypertrophy, fibrosis, filling pressures, and mortality were increased in DN-NPRA compared with WT-NPRA mice. In addition to their hormonal effects, endogenous natriuretic peptides exert physiologically relevant autocrine and paracrine effects via cardiomyocyte NPRA receptors to modulate cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis in response to pressure overload.
Mycoplasma pneumoniaeinfection increases airway collagen deposition in a murine model of allergic airway inflammation
Authors: Chu Hong Wei , Rino John G. , Wexler Rachel B. , Campbell Krista , Harbeck Ronald J. , Martin Richard J.
Published: March 2005

Mycoplasma pneumoniae (Mp) has been linked to chronic asthma. Airway remodeling (e.g., airway collagen deposition or fibrosis) is one of the pathological features of chronic asthma. However, the effects of respiratory Mp infection on airway fibrosis in asthma remain unclear. In the present study, we hypothesized that respiratory Mp infection may increase the airway collagen deposition in a murine model of allergic airway inflammation in part through upregulation of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1. Double (2 wk apart) inoculations of Mp or saline (control) were given to mice with or without previous allergen (ovalbumin) challenges. On days 14 and 42 after the last Mp or saline, lung tissue and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid were collected for analyses of collagen and TGF-β1 at protein and mRNA levels. In allergen-naïve mice, Mp did not alter airway wall collagen. In allergen-challenged mice, Mp infections did not change airway wall collagen deposition on day 14 but increased the airway collagen on day 42; this increase was accompanied by increased TGF-β1 protein in the airway wall and reduced TGF-β1 protein release from the lung tissue into BAL fluid. Our results suggest that Mp infections could modulate airway collagen deposition in a murine model of allergic airway inflammation with TGF-β1 involved in the collagen deposition process.
Acid and particulate-induced aspiration lung injury in mice: importance of MCP-1
Authors: Raghavendran Krishnan , Davidson Bruce A. , Mullan Barbara A. , Hutson Alan D. , Russo Thomas A. , Manderscheid Patricia A. , Woytash James A. , Holm Bruce A. , Notter Robert H. , Knight Paul R
Published: March 2005

A model of aspiration lung injury was developed in WT C57BL/6 mice to exploit genetically modified animals on this background, i.e., MCP-1(−/−) mice. Mice were given intratracheal hydrochloric acid (ACID, pH 1.25), small nonacidified gastric particles (SNAP), or combined acid plus small gastric particles (CASP). As reported previously in rats, lung injury in WT mice was most severe for “two-hit” aspiration from CASP (40 mg/ml particulates) based on the levels of albumin, leukocytes, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, MCP-1, KC, and MIP-2 in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) at 5, 24, and 48 h. MCP-1(−/−) mice given 40 mg/ml CASP had significantly decreased survival compared with WT mice (32% vs. 80% survival at 24 h and 0% vs. 72% survival at 48 h). MCP-1(−/−) mice also had decreased survival compared with WT mice for CASP aspirates containing reduced particulate doses of 10–20 mg/ml. MCP-1(−/−) mice given 5 mg/ml CASP had survival similar to WT mice given 40 mg/ml CASP. MCP-1(−/−) mice also had differing responses from WT mice for several inflammatory mediators in BAL (KC or IL-6 depending on the particle dose of CASP and time of injury). Histopathology of WT mice with CASP (40 mg particles/ml) showed microscopic areas of compartmentalization with prominent granuloma formation by 24 h, whereas lung tissue from MCP-1(−/−) mice had severe diffuse pneumonia without granulomas. These results indicate that MCP-1 is important for survival in murine aspiration pneumonitis and appears to act partly to protect uninjured lung regions by promoting isolation and compartmentalization of tissue with active inflammation.
Effect of doxycycline on sulfur mustard-induced respiratory lesions in guinea pigs
Authors: Guignabert Christophe , Taysse Laurent , Calvet Jean-Henri , Planus Emmanuelle , Delamanche Séraphin , Galiacy Stéphane , d'Ortho Marie-Pia
Published: March 2005

Respiratory tract lesions induced by the chemical warfare agent sulfur mustard (SM) are characterized by epithelial damages associated with inflammatory cell infiltration. Here we evaluated the imbalance between gelatinase and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), and we tested pretreatment with the protease inhibitor doxycycline. Guinea pigs were intoxicated intratracheally with SM and evaluated 24 h after exposure. Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) gelatinase activity of bronchial lavage (BL) fluid from SM-exposed guinea pigs was high compared with controls, as shown by both zymography and biotinylated substrate degradation, whereas TIMP-1 and -2 levels by immunoblotting were similar. Extensive areas of lysis were evidenced by in situ zymography, indicating imbalance between gelatinases and inhibitors towards net proteolytic activity. Doxycycline pretreatment resulted in 1) decreased gelatinase activity (zymography, free gelatinase activity assay, and in situ zymography); 2) decreased inflammation (BL fluid cellularity and protein level); and 3) dramatic decrease in histological epithelial lesions. Our results suggest inadequate levels of TIMP to counteract increased gelatinase activity and further support a role for MMP gelatinases in SM-induced respiratory lesions. They also suggest that doxycycline may hold promise as a therapeutic tool.
Experiential Listening
Authors: Friedman Neil
Published: March 2005

Experiential listening is listening to the not yet fully articulated felt sense from which a speaker is talking. It comes out of a combination of Eugene Gendlin’s philosophical work and Carl Rogers’s reflection of feeling response. It is a precise specification of what person-centered listeners (and many other therapists) ought to be listening for. This article explores first the historical development of experiential listening and then goes very specifically into how the author listens in an experiential way. The article ends with a paean to experiential listening.
Vicarious Posttraumatic Growth in Psychotherapy
Authors: Arnold Debora , Calhoun Lawrence G. , Tedeschi Richard , Cann Arnie
Published: March 2005

Previous investigations of the impact of trauma-related psychotherapy on clinicians have emphasized the hazardous nature of such work. The present study is the first exploration of clinicians’ perceptions of trauma work to investigate in depth the positive consequences of working with trauma survivors. A sample of 21 psychotherapists participated in a naturalistic interview exploring the impact of trauma work with a particular focus on (a) changes in memory systems and schemas about self and the world (the hallmarks of vicarious traumatization) and (b) perceived psychological growth. In addition to reporting several negative consequences, all of the clinicians in this sample described positive outcomes. These descriptions of positive sequelae are strikingly similar to reports of growth following directly experienced trauma and suggest that the potential benefits of working with trauma survivors may be significantly more powerful and far-reaching than the existing literature’s scant focus on positive sequelae would indicate.
The Application of an Ethical Lens to the Issue of Diagnosis in Marriage and Family Counseling
Authors: Hill Nicole R. , Crews Judith A.
Published: March 2005

The second part of this two-section series presents three case vignettes that promote an ethical dialogue related to diagnosis within the context of marriage and family counseling. Ethical dilemmas are articulated. Important issues to consider are outlined to spark a discourse in the field on the double bind inherent in diagnosing in marriage and family counseling.
Perimenopause and Sexual Functioning: Implications for Therapists
Authors: Cobia Debra C. , Harper Amney J.
Published: March 2005

The authors describe perimenopause and the symptoms associated with this life transition that may affect women’s sexual functioning. Specifically, issues of sexual desire and arousal are discussed in the context of biological changes and the psychosocial responses that often accompany aging. A number of interventions that therapists might use to normalize the client’s experience, change behavior, and change cognitions are described.
ISSR markers show differentiation among Italian populations of Asparagus acutifolius L
Authors: Sica Maria , Gamba Graziella , Montieri Stefania , Gaudio Luciano , Aceto Serena
Published: March 2005

Background

Asparagus acutifolius L. is a dioecious and native plant species, widely distributed in the Mediterranean Basin. It is known for its fine flavour and could represent an important resource for cultivation programs in desert areas. Few molecular studies have been performed on this species. In the present paper, the ISSR technique was employed to study genetic diversity in Italian A. acutifolius.

Results

Twenty-three primers produced a total of 228 polymorphic fragments used to evaluate genetic variation. FST (0.4561) and Theta B (0.4776) values indicate a wide genetic variation among the samples examined. The distance UPGMA tree grouped together the genotypes strictly according to their geographical origin, showing that each sample is genetically structured and can be considered a distinct population. AMOVA analysis further confirmed genetic structuring of the populations. Population-specific fragments were also detected.

Conclusion

The results suggest that ISSR markers are useful in distinguishing the populations of A. acutifolius according to geographical origin, and confirm the importance of genetic studies for designing germplasm conservation strategies.
Chicken genome analysis reveals novel genes encoding biotin-binding proteins related to avidin family
Authors: Niskanen Einari A , Hytönen Vesa P , Grapputo Alessandro , Nordlund Henri R , Kulomaa Markku S , Laitinen Olli H
Published: March 2005

Background

A chicken egg contains several biotin-binding proteins (BBPs), whose complete DNA and amino acid sequences are not known. In order to identify and characterise these genes and proteins we studied chicken cDNAs and genes available in the NCBI database and chicken genome database using the reported N-terminal amino acid sequences of chicken egg-yolk BBPs as search strings.

Results

Two separate hits showing significant homology for these N-terminal sequences were discovered. For one of these hits, the chromosomal location in the immediate proximity of the avidin gene family was found. Both of these hits encode proteins having high sequence similarity with avidin suggesting that chicken BBPs are paralogous to avidin family. In particular, almost all residues corresponding to biotin binding in avidin are conserved in these putative BBP proteins. One of the found DNA sequences, however, seems to encode a carboxy-terminal extension not present in avidin.

Conclusion

We describe here the predicted properties of the putative BBP genes and proteins. Our present observations link BBP genes together with avidin gene family and shed more light on the genetic arrangement and variability of this family. In addition, comparative modelling revealed the potential structural elements important for the functional and structural properties of the putative BBP proteins.
Time trends in the impact factor of Public Health journals
Authors: López-Abente Gonzalo , Muñoz-Tinoco Concha
Published: March 2005

Background

Journal impact factor (IF) is linked to the probability of a paper being cited and is progressively becoming incorporated into researchers' curricula vitae. Furthermore, the decision as to which journal a given study should be submitted, may well be based on the trend in the journal's overall quality. This study sought to assess time trends in journal IF in the field of public, environmental and occupational health.

Methods

We used the IFs of 80 public health journals that were registered by the Science Citation Index from 1992 through 2003 and had been listed for a minimum period of the previous 3 years. Impact factor time trends were assessed using a linear regression model, in which the dependent variable was IF and the independent variable, the year. The slope of the model and its statistical significance were taken as the indicator of annual change.

Results

The IF range for the journals covered went from 0.18 to 5.2 in 2003. Although there was no statistical association between annual change and mean IF, most of the fastest growing journals registered mean IFs in excess of 1.5, and some represented emerging areas of public health research. Graphs displaying IF trends are shown.

Conclusion

In view of the delay between the publication of IFs and that of any given paper, knowing the trend in IF is essential in order to make a correct choice of journal.
Risk factors for treatment delay in pulmonary tuberculosis in Recife, Brazil
Authors: dos Santos Martinho APS , Albuquerque Maria FPM , Ximenes Ricardo AA , Lucena-Silva Norma LCL , Braga Cynthia , Campelo Antônio RL , Dantas Odimariles MS , Montarroyos Ulisses R , Souza Wayner V , Kawasaki Alexandre M , Rodrigues Laura C
Published: March 2005

Background

Tuberculosis is still a great challenge to public health in Brazil and worldwide. Early detection followed by effective therapy is extremely important in controlling the disease. Recent studies have investigated reasons for delays in treatment, but there is no agreed definition of what constitutes an "acceptable" delay. This study investigates factors associated with total delay in treatment of tuberculosis.

Methods

A cohort of adult cases of pulmonary tuberculosis diagnosed over a two-year period was studied. Patients were interviewed on entry, reporting the duration of symptoms before the start of treatment, and sputum and blood samples were collected. It was decided that sixty days was an acceptable total delay. Associations were investigated using univariable and multivariable analysis and the population attributable fraction was estimated.

Results

Of 1105 patients, 62% had a delay of longer than 60 days. Age, sex, alcoholism and difficulty of access were not associated with delays, but associations were found in the case of unemployment, having given up smoking, having lost weight and being treated in two of the six health districts. The proportion attributable to: not being an ex-smoker was 31%; unemployment, 18%; weight loss, 12%, and going to the two worst health districts, 25%.

Conclusion

In this urban area, delays seem to be related to unemployment and general attitudes towards health. Although they reflect the way health services are organized, delays are not associated with access to care.
Association of Interleukin‐1 Polymorphisms With Periodontal Disease
Authors: López Néstor J. , Jara Lilian , Valenzuela Carlos Y.
Published: March 2005

Background: Several studies have investigated genetic polymorphisms for cytokines as potential genetic markers for periodontitis. Some studies have found that interleukin (IL)‐1A and IL‐1B polymorphisms are associated with a higher severity of periodontitis, while others found no association. The aims of this study were to determine the prevalence of the IL‐1A−889 and IL‐1B+3954 (previously described as +3953) polymorphisms in Chileans and their association with periodontitis.

Methods: Subjects aged 20 to 48 were selected from people requesting dental treatment at a public health center in Santiago, Chile. A case‐control study of 330 cases of periodontitis patients and 101 healthy controls was performed. A full‐mouth periodontal examination was performed on each subject and a structured questionnaire was conducted to determine smoking habits. Cases were categorized as having initial, moderate, or severe periodontitis according to the percentage of sites with clinical attachment loss ≥3 mm. Genomic DNA was analyzed for polymorphism in the IL‐1A gene at site −889 and IL‐1B gene at site +3954 by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification followed by restriction enzyme digestion and gel electrophoresis. Data were analyzed by chi square test, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and by calculating odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results: Demographic and socio‐economic characteristics of subjects were similar in cases and in controls. A higher frequency of heterozygous of the IL‐1A−889 was found in cases than in controls, but the difference was not significant. The heterozygous of the IL‐1B+3954 was significantly higher in cases than in controls and was associated with periodontitis (OR 3.12, 95% CI 1.59 to 6.09, P = 0.001). The homozygous for allele 1 of the IL‐1B+3954 was a protective factor for periodontitis (OR 0.35, 95% CI 0.19 to 0.66, P = 0.001). The prevalence of positive genotype (at least one allele 2 present at each locus) was significantly higher in cases (26.06%) than in controls (9.9%) and was significantly associated with periodontitis (OR 3.21, 95% CI 1.60 to 6.44, P = 0.001), irrespective of the smoking status and periodontitis severity. Sensitivity of positive genotype was 26%, the specificity 90%, and the positive predictive value 89%.

Conclusion: Within the limits of this study, the results show that individuals carrying the positive genotype have significantly greater risk for developing periodontitis. J Periodontol 2005;76:234‐243.
Effect of Partial Recording Protocols on Estimates of Prevalence of Periodontal Disease
Authors: Susin Cristiano , Kingman Albert , Albandar Jasim M.
Published: March 2005

Background: The aim of this study was to assess the degree of underreporting in the estimates of prevalence of periodontal attachment loss due to different partial recording protocols (PRP) in epidemiological studies, and to derive a correction factor to adjust for this bias.

Methods: The study sample included 1,460 dentate persons 14 to 103 years old who were examined clinically to assess the clinical attachment loss at six sites per tooth. Seven PRP based on full‐mouth or half‐mouth designs were assessed, and the bias and sensitivity in the assessment of attachment loss prevalence for these protocols were assessed.

Results: All partial protocols underestimated the prevalence of attachment loss. Bias estimates for any full‐mouth PRP were smaller than those for the corresponding site‐combination PRP for the half‐mouth design. The PRP using the mesio‐buccal (MB), mid‐buccal (B), and disto‐lingual (DL) sites of teeth in all four quadrants showed the smallest bias and highest sensitivity of prevalence estimates among the seven PRP evaluated, uniformly across the range of attachment loss severity level. The three site PRP incorporating the DL site produced less bias than the three site PRP including the disto‐buccal (DB) site. There was a 3% to 12% gain in sensitivity for 2 to 5 mm attachment loss thresholds for the three site half‐mouth PRP compared with the two site MB, B half‐mouth PRP.

Conclusions: The bias in the assessment of attachment loss is influenced by the partial recording design and the type and number of sites assessed, and is also influenced by the severity of attachment loss in the study population. These factors should be considered when selecting a partial recording method in large surveys. Furthermore, inflation factors designed to adjust for the bias due to the use of partial systems should be calculated and reported so that comparisons of results with other surveys are more meaningful. J Periodontol 2005;76:262‐267.
Prostaglandins E2 and F2α Enhance Differentiation of Cementoblastic Cells
Authors: Camargo P.M. , Lagos R. , Pirih F.Q.M. , Benitez A. , Nervina J.M. , Tetradis S.
Published: March 2005

Background: The prostaglandins (PG) E2 and PGF2α are important cytokines in periodontal physiology and pathology. PGE2 and PGF2α alter cell function by binding and activating the plasmamembrane G‐protein‐coupled PG receptors. In this study, we examined the PGE2 and PGF2α effects on the immortalized cementoblastic OCCM cells.

Methods: Confluent OCCM cells were treated with PGE2, PGF2α, specific activators/inhibitors of the EP prostanoid receptors, a specific activator of the FP prostanoid receptor, and direct activators/inhibitors of the protein kinase C (PKC) signaling pathway. Mineral nodule formation was assessed by the von Kossa stain.

Results: PGE2 and PGF2α significantly increased mineralization of OCCM cells. The EP1 and EP3 PG receptor activators 16,16‐dimethyl‐prostaglandin E2 and sulprostone, also increased mineralization. In contrast, specific activators of the EP2 or the EP2/EP3/EP4 receptors did not have any effect. Fluprostenol, a specific activator of the FP receptor, significantly increased mineralization of OCCM cells. FP and EP (1 or 3) receptors signal through activation of the protein kinase C (PKC) pathway. Indeed, phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate (PMA), a direct activator of the PKC pathway, significantly increase OCCM mineralization, while pre‐treatment of OCCM cells with the PKC inhibitor GF109203× (bisindolylmaleimide) significantly decreased mineralization.

Conclusion: We conclude that PGE2 and PGF2α exert an anabolic effect on OCCM mineralization through activation of PKC signaling. J Periodontol 2005;76:303‐309.
Deep Vein Thrombosis and Healing Outcomes in Patients With Pyoderma Gangrenosum
Authors: Zhao Hannah , Sengupta Sidharth K. , Sisley Jonathan M. , Haddadin Olivia , Pfeifer Hailey , Ortega-Loayza Alex G.
Published: February 2024

This single-center prospective case-control study assessed the association between deep vein thrombosis and healing outcomes in patients with pyoderma gangrenosum.
Cognitive Symptoms of Post–COVID-19 Condition and Daily Functioning
Authors: Jaywant Abhishek , Gunning Faith M. , Oberlin Lauren E. , Santillana Mauricio , Ognyanova Katherine , Druckman James N. , Baum Matthew A. , Lazer David , Perlis Roy H.
Published: February 2024

Importance

The frequent occurrence of cognitive symptoms in post–COVID-19 condition has been described, but the nature of these symptoms and their demographic and functional factors are not well characterized in generalizable populations.

Objective

To investigate the prevalence of self-reported cognitive symptoms in post–COVID-19 condition, in comparison with individuals with prior acute SARS-CoV-2 infection who did not develop post–COVID-19 condition, and their association with other individual features, including depressive symptoms and functional status.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Two waves of a 50-state nonprobability population-based internet survey conducted between December 22, 2022, and May 5, 2023. Participants included survey respondents aged 18 years and older.

Exposure

Post–COVID-19 condition, defined as self-report of symptoms attributed to COVID-19 beyond 2 months after the initial month of illness.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Seven items from the Neuro-QoL cognition battery assessing the frequency of cognitive symptoms in the past week and patient Health Questionnaire-9.

Results

The 14 767 individuals reporting test-confirmed COVID-19 illness at least 2 months before the survey had a mean (SD) age of 44.6 (16.3) years; 568 (3.8%) were Asian, 1484 (10.0%) were Black, 1408 (9.5%) were Hispanic, and 10 811 (73.2%) were White. A total of 10 037 respondents (68.0%) were women and 4730 (32.0%) were men. Of the 1683 individuals reporting post–COVID-19 condition, 955 (56.7%) reported at least 1 cognitive symptom experienced daily, compared with 3552 of 13 084 (27.1%) of those who did not report post–COVID-19 condition. More daily cognitive symptoms were associated with a greater likelihood of reporting at least moderate interference with functioning (unadjusted odds ratio [OR], 1.31 [95% CI, 1.25-1.36]; adjusted [AOR], 1.30 [95% CI, 1.25-1.36]), lesser likelihood of full-time employment (unadjusted OR, 0.95 [95% CI, 0.91-0.99]; AOR, 0.92 [95% CI, 0.88-0.96]) and greater severity of depressive symptoms (unadjusted coefficient, 1.40 [95% CI, 1.29-1.51]; adjusted coefficient 1.27 [95% CI, 1.17-1.38). After including depressive symptoms in regression models, associations were also found between cognitive symptoms and at least moderate interference with everyday functioning (AOR, 1.27 [95% CI, 1.21-1.33]) and between cognitive symptoms and lower odds of full-time employment (AOR, 0.92 [95% CI, 0.88-0.97]).

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings of this survey study of US adults suggest that cognitive symptoms are common among individuals with post–COVID-19 condition and associated with greater self-reported functional impairment, lesser likelihood of full-time employment, and greater depressive symptom severity. Screening for and addressing cognitive symptoms is an important component of the public health response to post–COVID-19 condition.
A unifying mechanism for seipin‐mediated lipid droplet formation
Authors: Klug Yoel A. , Ferreira Joana V. , Carvalho Pedro
Published: February 2024

Lipid droplets (LDs) are dynamic organelles essential for cellular lipid homeostasis. Assembly of LDs occurs in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), and the conserved ER membrane protein seipin emerged as a key player in this process. Here, we review recent advances provided by structural, biochemical, and in silico analysis that revealed mechanistic insights into the molecular role of the seipin complexes and led to an updated model for LD biogenesis. We further discuss how other ER components cooperate with seipin during LD biogenesis. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying seipin‐mediated LD assembly is important to uncover the fundamental aspects of lipid homeostasis and organelle biogenesis and to provide hints on the pathogenesis of lipid storage disorders.
Supramolecular Polymer‐Based Ionogels Enable Large‐Scale Fabrication of Stable Smart Windows with Room‐Temperature Closed‐Loop Recyclability and Self‐Healing Capability
Authors: Hong Chen , Li Bing , Zhang Junjie , Li Yang , Sun Junqi
Published: February 2024

Current self‐healing ionogels are unable to undergo closed‐loop recycling and are unsuitable for large‐scale fabrication, which increases their manufacturing costs and limits their practical applications. In this study, self‐healing thermochromic ionogels with room‐temperature closed‐loop recyclability and self‐healing capability are large‐scale prepared by the in situ synthesis of imine bond cross‐linked supramolecular polymers in binary ionic liquids. The resulting ionogels show excellent mechanical and environmental stability, high solar modulation capability, and long service life, which can provide spontaneous solar modulation for buildings and vehicles to reduce cooling‐related energy consumption. The temperature‐responsive hydrogen bonding between supramolecular polymers and ionic liquids influences the dissolution state of the supramolecular polymers, allowing the self‐healing thermochromic ionogels to switch between transparent and opaque states through reversible agglomeration of ILs inside the ionogels. Dynamic imine bonds enable the ionogels to spontaneously heal themselves at room temperature and to be depolymerized into monomers in an extremely high yield and purity under hydrochloric acid catalysis at room temperature. The recovered monomers can be used to re‐manufacture self‐healing thermochromic ionogels without losing their original mechanical properties or thermochromic capability. This study provides a new route for developing functional self‐healing ionogels that can be large‐scale fabricated and closed‐loop recycled.
High‐Performance 2.2 V Asymmetric Supercapacitors Achieved by Appropriate Charge Matching between Ultrahigh Mass‐Loading Mn3O4 and Sodium‐Jarosite Derived FeOOH
Authors: Xu Pengfei , Luo Shuang , Liang Jianying , Pan Die , Zou Bingsuo , Li Jien
Published: February 2024

For the advancement of high‐energy asymmetric supercapacitors, the breakthrough point is matching charge storage capacity and balanced electrode kinetics between the positive and negative electrodes. Herein, Mn3O4 nanosheets composed of nanoparticles are anchored on activated carbon cloth (ACC) as the positive electrode by electrodeposition. FeOOH nanoparticles derived from NaFe3(SO4)2(OH)6 truncated cubes serve as the negative electrode. Due to the unique sheet‐like network structure, ultrahigh mass‐loading (73.3 mg cm−2), and enhanced kinetics, the Mn3O4@ACC electrode exhibits an ultrahigh specific capacitance of 12.77 F cm−2. Besides, the FeOOH@ACC electrode with a low‐crystalline structure also exhibits a maximum specific capacitance of 17.84 F cm−2. The Na+ diffusion process, the charge storage mechanism, and the electrochemical reaction kinetics of the Mn3O4@ACC are investigated by ex situ characterization. Theoretical calculations show that Mn3O4 has metallic electronic conductivity and reveal the adsorption and diffusion mechanism of Na ions during the electrode process. The assembled aqueous Mn3O4//FeOOH asymmetric supercapacitor  device successfully extends the operating voltage to 2.2 V and exhibits a high energy density of 3.75 mWh cm−2 and ultra‐long cycle life (81.6% capacity retention after 26,000 cycles). Therefore, this study provides a feasible pathway for the further development of asymmetric supercapacitors with high energy density.
Enhancing the Repair of Substantial Volumetric Muscle Loss by Creating Different Levels of Blood Vessel Networks Using Pre‐Vascularized Nerve Hydrogel Implants
Authors: Wei Shih‐Yen , Chen Po‐Yu , Tsai Min‐Chun , Hsu Ting‐Lun , Hsieh Chia‐Chang , Fan Hsiu‐Wei , Chen Tzu‐Hsuan , Xie Ren‐Hao , Chen Guan‐Yu , Chen Ying‐Chieh
Published: February 2024

Volumetric muscle loss (VML), a severe muscle tissue loss from trauma or surgery, results in scarring, limited regeneration, and significant fibrosis, leading to lasting reductions in muscle mass and function. A promising approach for VML recovery involves restoring vascular and neural networks at the injury site, a process not extensively studied yet. Collagen hydrogels have been investigated as scaffolds for blood vessel formation due to their biocompatibility, but reconstructing blood vessels and guiding innervation at the injury site is still difficult. In this study, collagen hydrogels with varied densities of vessel‐forming cells are implanted subcutaneously in mice, generating pre‐vascularized hydrogels with diverse vessel densities (0–145 numbers/mm2) within a week. These hydrogels, after being transplanted into muscle injury sites, are assessed for muscle repair capabilities. Results showed that hydrogels with high microvessel densities, filling the wound area, effectively reconnected with host vasculature and neural networks, promoting neovascularization and muscle integration, and addressing about 63% of the VML.
Recording Quality Is Systematically Related to Electrode Impedance
Authors: Lewis Christopher M. , Boehler Christian , Liljemalm Rickard , Fries Pascal , Stieglitz Thomas , Asplund Maria
Published: February 2024

Extracellular recordings with planar microelectrodes are the gold standard technique for recording the fast action potentials of neurons in the intact brain. The introduction of microfabrication techniques has revolutionized the in vivo recording of neuronal activity and introduced high‐density, multi‐electrode arrays that increase the spatial resolution of recordings and the number of neurons that can be simultaneously recorded. Despite these innovations, there is still debate about the ideal electrical transfer characteristics of extracellular electrodes. This uncertainty is partly due to the lack of systematic studies comparing electrodes with different characteristics, particularly for chronically implanted arrays over extended time periods. Here a high‐density, flexible, and thin‐film array is fabricated and tested, containing four distinct electrode types differing in surface material and surface topology and, thus, impedance. It is found that recording quality is strongly related to electrode impedance with signal amplitude and unit yield negatively correlated to impedance. Electrode impedances are stable for the duration of the experiment (up to 12 weeks) and recording quality does not deteriorate. The findings support the expectation from the theory that recording quality will increase as impedance decreases.
Symmetry‐Triggered Tunable Phosphorescence Lifetime of Graphene Quantum Dots in a Solid State
Authors: Li Yongqiang , Chen Liangfeng , Yang Siwei , Wei Genwang , Ren Xue , Xu Anli , Wang Hang , He Peng , Dong Hui , Wang Gang , Ye Caichao , Ding Guqiao
Published: February 2024

Studying the phosphorescent mechanisms of carbon nanostructures synthesized by the “bottom‐up” approach is key to understanding the structure modulation and the interfacial properties of carbon nanostructures. In this work, the relationships among symmetry of precursors in the “bottom‐up” synthesis, structures of products, and phosphorescence lifetimes of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) are studied. The symmetry matching of precursors in the formation of a D6h graphene‐like framework is considered the key factor in controlling the separability of sp2 domains in GQDs. As the separability of sp2 domains in GQDs increases, the phosphorescence lifetimes (14.8–125.5 ms) of GQDs in the solid state can be tuned. Machine learning is used to define the degree of disorder (S) of the GQD structure, which quantitatively describes the different space groups of precursors. The negative correlation between S and the oscillator strength of GQDs is uncovered. Therefore, S can be recognized as reflective of oscillator strength in the GQD structure. Finally, based on the correlations found between the structures and phosphorescence lifetimes of GQDs, GQDs with an ultralong phosphorescence lifetime (28.5 s) are obtained. Moreover, GQDs with visible phosphorescence emission (435–618 nm) are synthesized.
Guided Organic Crystalline Nanowires by Directional Friction‐Transferred Poly(Tetrafluoroethylene) Nanogrooves and Their Monolithic Phototransistors
Authors: Li Yajun , Zhou Wei , Cai Xuebao , Chen Xiangtao , Liu Hanyu , Huang Pingyang , Wang Xingyu , Xu Jinyou
Published: February 2024

The monolithic integration of bottom‐up nanowires into devices requires rational growth of aligned nanowires. Of the proposed aligned growth methods, few are sufficiently general to be applicable to diverse materials and substrates. In this work, oriented poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (PTFE) grooves with nanoscale depth and width are transferred onto different substrates through a simple directional mechanical friction. This friction is achieved in a few seconds by a program‐driven handwriting machine. Various organic molecules (e.g., Alq3, NiPc, CoPc, CuPc, F16CuPc) are therefore assembled into oriented crystalline nanowires on the surface of Si, Si/SiO2, and glass. The self‐alignment of these nanowires enables a scalable device fabrication directly on growth substrates, eliminating structural damage and contamination during post‐growth alignment. For example, using the aligned F16CuPc nanowires on PTFE‐coated Si/SiO2 wafers, back‐gate field‐effect phototransistors are fabricated in a scalable manner by directly depositing an array of micro‐sized electrodes. Statistical results show that these phototransistors operate in n‐type enhancement mode with thresholds of a few volts. In addition, they exhibit fast photoresponse on the order of tens of milliseconds and long‐term stability in the vis–NIR spectrum. The generality of this guided nanowire growth and resulting monolithic devices offer new opportunities for the monolithic integration of nanowire‐based devices.
Tb and Eu in MOF‐76: Elucidating the Mechanisms Responsible for the Divergent Excellent and Poor Photoluminescence Quantum Yields
Authors: Meng Dejing , Zhao Tonghan , Busko Dmitry , Cosgun Ergene Arzu , Richards Bryce S. , Howard Ian A.
Published: February 2024

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as promising hosts for lanthanide ions owing to their ability to sensitize the lanthanides and provide a rigid topology while still permitting interactions with guest species. Among these lanthanide MOFs, MOF‐76 is a noteworthy example composed of 1,3,5‐benzenetricarboxylic acid (H3BTC) and lanthanide ions. In this study, a high photoluminescence quantum yield (ΦPL) of 91% for Tb‐based MOF‐76 (Tb‐MOF) is reported, while the efficiency of Eu‐based MOF‐76 (Eu‐MOF) is over five times lower. A potential circumvention of the poor performance of Eu3+ is energy transfer from Tb3+ to Eu3+, but it is found that although energy transfer is efficient the ΦPL of the Eu3+ remains low. The study investigates the cause of the lower quantum yield in Eu‐MOF by ruling out possible factors such as crystal size, guest solvent molecules, and energy transfer from or back to the linker. None of these are significant loss mechanisms, leading to conclude that the MOF‐76 ligand unfortunately leads to fast non‐radiative deactivation of the Eu3+ excited state. The results suggest that MOF‐76 is an excellent host for Tb3+ ions, but exploration is required for MOF linkers to simply access the potentially excellent emission efficiency of Eu3+ ions.
Pressure‐Induced Inversion of Chiroptical Properties in Cholesteric Assembled Cellulose Nanocrystals
Authors: Meng Xiao , Wang Yue , Bukharina Daria , Fei Yunfan , Wang Jingtian , He Yisheng , Miao Qing , Yu Runze , Jin Bowen , Wang Xi , Chen Gang , Li Kuo , Tsukruk Vladimir V. , Wang Kai , Ye Chunhong
Published: February 2024

Dynamic manipulation of the chiroptical effect, particularly the inversion of chiral signal, has attracted broad attention, but still remains challenging, Here, stepwise tuning of the helicoidal assembly and chiroptical properties of the cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) films utilizing high pressure are demonstrated. With in situ monitoring, the changes of Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectra and evaluating the corresponding applied energy, three distinctive stages of chiroptical properties are clearly identified. In these stages, the photonic bandgap of the CNC film exhibits a fast‐slow–fast alteration over different energy imposed. The three stages are associated sequentially with interlayer space reduction, hydrogen bonding reconfiguration, and covalent bands changing. A switch of chiral signal from left‐ to right‐handedness is observed in the third stage, and the handedness of CD spectra can be recovered upon release, which is barely observed. This unique property is suspected to be the change in CNCs assembly induced by molecular‐level conformational change. This work sheds light on the fundamental understanding of how pressure can trigger the change from molecular‐level to hierarchical assembly and corresponding chiroptical performance, facilitating the design of chiral assembly with pre‐programmed triggering chiroptical properties of bio‐photonic materials.
Recent Advances in Radical Coupling Strategies Enabled by 2‐Azaallyl Anions as Super‐Electron‐Donors
Authors: Zou. Dong , Wang Wei , Ying Jie
Published: February 2024

Due to amine derivatives widely existing in numerous clinical medicines and bioactive compounds, their synthesis has received considerable attention over the past few decades. Traditional methods for the synthesis of amine derivatives largely relied on the reduction of nitroarenes, amides, hydrazines, nitriles, and azides. Recently, the discovery of 2‐azaallyl anions as super‐electron‐donors (SEDs) has opened up new possibilities for the construction of diverse carbon‐carbon and carbon‐heteroatom bonds through radical coupling strategies. This breakthrough highlights the potential of generating 2‐azaallyl radicals as versatile intermediates in organic synthesis. Then, hydrolysis of the coupling product can easily separate the corresponding amine derivatives. Thus, tremendous attention has been paid to the C−H functionalization of ketimines as an alternative strategy for the synthesis of amine derivatives. Herein, we comprehensively summarize the recent progress in radical coupling strategies enabled by 2‐azaallyl anions as SEDs. Their proposed mechanistic pathways, advantages, and limitations are also discussed in detail. 1. Introduction 2. C−C Bond Formation 2.1. Vinylation of Ketimines 2.2. Arylation of Ketimines 2.3. Alkylation of Ketimines 2.3.1. Methylation of Ketimines 2.3.2. Other Alkylation of Ketimines 3. C−X Bond Formation 3.1. C−P and C−S Bonds Formation 3.2. C−N and C−O Bonds Formation 4. Conclusions
Exchange Bias Modulated by Antiferromagnetic Spin‐Flop Transition in 2D Van der Waals Heterostructures
Authors: Gu Kai , Zhang Xiaoqian , Liu Xiangjie , Guo Xinlei , Wu Zhenqi , Wang Shuo , Song Qinxin , Wang Wei , Wei Lujun , Liu Ping , Ma Jingrui , Xu Yongbing , Niu Wei , Pu Yong
Published: February 2024

Exchange bias is extensively studied and widely utilized in spintronic devices, such as spin valves and magnetic tunnel junctions. 2D van der Waals (vdW) magnets, with high‐quality interfaces in heterostructures, provide an excellent platform for investigating the exchange bias effect. To date, intrinsic modulation of exchange bias, for instance, via precise manipulation of the magnetic phases of the antiferromagnetic layer, is yet to be fully reached, owing partly to the large exchange fields of traditional bulk antiferromagnets. Herein, motivated by the low‐field spin‐flop transition of a 2D antiferromagnet, CrPS4, exchange bias is explored by modulating the antiferromagnetic spin‐flop phase transition in all‐vdW magnetic heterostructures. The results demonstrate that undergoing the spin‐flop transition during the field cooling process, the A‐type antiferromagnetic ground state of CrPS4 turns into a canted antiferromagnetic one, therefore, it reduces the interfacial magnetic coupling and suppresses the exchange bias. Via conducting different cooling fields, one can select the exchange bias effect switching among the “ON”, “depressed”, and “OFF” states determined by the spin flop of CrPS4. This work provides an approach to intrinsically modulate the exchange bias in all‐vdW heterostructures and paves new avenues to design and manipulate 2D spintronic devices.