bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk Factors Associated with Triatomines and Its Infection with Trypanosoma cruzi in Rural Communities from the Southern Region of the State of Mexico, Mexico
Authors: Medina-Torres Imelda , Vázquez-Chagoyán Juan C. , Rodríguez-Vivas Roger I. , de Oca-Jiménez Roberto Montes
Published: January 2010

Trypanosoma cruzi prevalence in triatomines and risk factors associated to the presence of the insect were studied in 990 rural houses in the southern region of the State of Mexico, Mexico. In each house, triatomines were collected, and information related to house construction material was obtained. T. cruzi infection was diagnosed in all triatomines. A primary screening was performed using 2 × 2 contingency tables of exposure variables. All variables with P ≤ 0.20 were analyzed by logistic regression. Triatomines (N = 125) were collected from 822 houses and analyzed for T. cruzi infection. Triatoma pallidipennis (97.4%) and Triatoma dimidiata (2.6%) were identified in 52.1% of the localities and in 6.1% of the houses. Infection was found in 28.0% of triatomines, from which 28.9% were nymphs. Factors associated with triatomine infestation were flooring construction material (dirt floor: odds ratio [OR], 10.05; 95% confidence interval [CI], 5.31–18.04; P = 0.0001), house rooms (at least three rooms: OR, 2.04; 95% CI, 1.07–3.86; P = 0.028), and ceiling construction material (cardboard lamina tile: OR, 6.84; 95% CI, 1.49–31.31; P = 0.013). This study shows T. cruzi circulation in triatomines in the area of study, and because triatomines are adapted for living and reproducing in the domestic environment, there is a potential risk of Chagas disease transmission to humans. Also, we can conclude that the construction materials and house inhabitants are risk factors of triatomines infestation.
Familial Analysis of Seropositivity to Trypanosoma cruzi and of Clinical Forms of Chagas Disease
Authors: Silva-Grecco Roseane L. , Balarin Marly A. S. , Correia Dalmo , Prata Aluízio , Rodrigues Virmondes
Published: January 2010

A cross-sectional study was carried out in Água Comprida, MG, Brazil, a region previously endemic to Chagas disease whose vectorial transmission was interrupted around 20 year ago. A total of 998 individuals were examined for anti-Trypanosoma cruzi antibodies. Seropositivity was observed in 255 subjects (25.5%), and 743 subjects were negative. Forty-one families with 5–80 individuals with similar environmental conditions were selected for familial analysis. In 15 families, seropositivity to T. cruzi was observed in > 50% of individuals. The segregation analysis confirmed family aggregation for the seropositivity to the T. cruzi. Heart commitment was the major clinical form observed, and in six families, > 50% of the individuals display cardiopathy that may be attributed to T. cruzi infection. Our results support the hypothesis that there is a family aggregation for the seropositivity but without the effect of one major gene.
Global Infectious Disease Surveillance at DoD Overseas Laboratories, 1999–2007
Authors: Jeremy Sueker J. , Chretien Jean-Paul , Gaydos Joel C. , Russell Kevin L.
Published: January 2010

The United States Department of Defense Global Emerging Infections Surveillance and Response System (DoD-GEIS) conducted a review in 2008 of projects funded by DoD-GEIS at five partner overseas laboratories from 1999 through 2007. During this period, the annual overseas programming budget grew from US$1.038 million to US$21 million. The review describes the distribution of project priorities and geographic locations over the years, the types of outcomes the projects generated, and the frequency with which they involved collaboration with other public health agencies and organizations, including CDC and WHO. Areas for further program strengthening are identified.
The Effect of Malaria and Intestinal Helminth Coinfection on Birth Outcomes in Kumasi, Ghana
Authors: Yatich Nelly J. , Jolly Pauline E. , Funkhouser Ellen , Agbenyega Tsiri , Rayner Julian C. , Ehiri John E. , Turpin Archer , Stiles Jonathan K. , Ellis William O. , Jiang Yi , Williams Jonathan H.
Published: January 2010

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of Plasmodium falciparum and intestinal helminth coinfection on maternal anemia and birth outcomes. A cross-sectional study of 746 women who delivered in two hospitals in Kumasi was conducted. Data were collected using an investigator-administered questionnaire and from patients' medical records. Blood was collected for determination of P. falciparum and hemoglobin levels. Adverse pregnancy outcomes were high (44.6%). Coinfection (versus no infection) was associated with 3-fold increase in low birth weight. For women with anemia, coinfection was 2.6 times and 3.5 times as likely to result in preterm deliveries and small for gestational age infants. The odds of having anemia was increased almost 3-fold by coinfection. Coinfection (versus helminth only) resulted in increased risks of anemia, low birth weight, and small for gestational age infants. This study demonstrates that women with malaria and intestinal helminth coinfection are at particular risk of adverse birth outcomes.
The Survival of Burkholderia pseudomallei in Liquid Media
Authors: Robertson Jeannie , Levy Avram , Sagripanti Jose-Luis , Inglis Timothy J. J.
Published: January 2010

We studied the effect of environmental parameters on the survival of Burkholderia pseudomallei. There was a small increase in bacterial count for up to 28 days in sterilized distilled water or rain water, in water at 20°C or 40°C, and in buffered solutions of pH 4 or higher. Counts of culturable B. pseudomallei declined at pH 3, in the presence of seawater or water with concentrations of 4% salt or higher, and under refrigeration. The morphological appearances of B. pseudomallei changed under conditions that maintained culturable numbers from bacilli to coccoid cells and spiral forms under pH or salt stress. These observations indicate that B. pseudomallei can endure nutrient-depleted environments as well as a wide range of pH, salt concentrations, and temperatures for periods of up to 28 days. The relative stability of B. pseudomallei under these conditions underlines the tenacity of this species and its potential for natural dispersal in water: in surface water collections, in managed water distribution systems, and through rainfall. These survival properties help explain the recent expansion of the known melioidosis endemic zone in Australia and may have played a part in recent melioidosis outbreaks.
Natural Crossbreeding between Sympatric Species of the Phyllosoma Complex (Insecta: Hemiptera: Reduviidae) Indicate the Existence of Only One Species with Morphologic and Genetic Variations
Authors: Martínez-Hernandez Fernando , Martínez-Ibarra Jose A. , Catalá Silvia , Villalobos Guiehdani , Torre Patricia de la , Laclette Juan P. , Alejandre-Aguilar Ricardo , Espinoza Bertha
Published: January 2010

The nucleotide sequences of the cytochrome B gene and the antennal phenotypes were analyzed for the following triatomine species: Triatoma longipennis, Triatoma pallidipennis, and Triatoma picturata, which belong to the Phyllosoma complex. These species inhabit sympatric areas from Talpa de Allende, Autlan de Navarro, and Teocuitatlan de Corona in Jalisco, Mexico. Molecular marker analysis showed that the sympatric individuals are the natural crossbred descendents of different individuals living in close proximity in these natural areas that resulted in mixed populations. The antennal phenotype results are coincident with these genetic findings, which point to the high similitude between all Phyllosoma complex populations analyzed. These data support the hypothesis that these species are morphotypes with chromatic and genetic varieties, which preserves the possibility of natural breeding with fertile descent. In conclusion, our results strongly support the hypothesis that T. pallidipennis, T. longipennis, and T. picturata are subspecies of the Phyllosoma complex.
Rubella Seroepidemiology and Catch-up Immunization among Pregnant Women in Taiwan: Comparison between Women Born in Taiwan and Immigrants from Six Countries in Asia
Authors: Lin Ching-Chiang , Yang Chun-Yuh , Shih Ching-Tang , Chen Bai-Hsiun , Huang Yeou-Lih
Published: January 2010

Rubella vaccination in Taiwan started in 1986; mass vaccination was introduced into the national immunization program in 1992. In recent years, 17–31% of all marriages in Taiwan have been between Taiwanese men and foreign women. The aim of this study was to analyze rubella seroepidemiology and the rate of catch-up immunization in women. We recruited 10,089 pregnant women, including 1,920 immigrants, who had received prenatal examinations during 1999–2006. The rates of seronegativity among global, Taiwan-born, and non–Taiwan-born pregnant women were 14.0%, 11.9%, and 23.1%, respectively. The seronegativity of rubella antibodies decreased from 28.2% for Taiwan-born women born before September 1971 to 8.0% for those born thereafter. The rates of rubella catch-up immunization among global, Taiwan-born, and non–Taiwan-born pregnant women were 28.6%, 20.5%, and 42.2%, respectively. Our results suggest that substantial numbers of older Taiwan-born women and immigrant women remain susceptible to rubella infection.
Association between Mannose-Binding Lectin Polymorphisms and Wuchereria bancrofti Infection in Two Communities in North-Eastern Tanzania
Authors: Meyrowitsch Dan W. , Simonsen Paul E. , Garred Peter , Dalgaard Michael , Magesa Stephen M. , Alifrangis Michael
Published: January 2010

The association between selected mannose-binding lectin (MBL) genotype polymorphisms and Wuchereria bancrofti infection status was assessed among individuals whose infection status had been monitored for three decades. Blood samples were collected in 2006 and examined for polymorphisms in the mbl-2 gene and for W. bancrofti-specific circulating filarial antigen (CFA) status. Logistic regression analysis showed a significant association between MBL genotype and CFA status, with low-expression MBL genotype individuals being almost three times more likely to be CFA positive than high-expression MBL genotype individuals (odds ratio [OR] = 2.90). When individuals' filarial infection (microfilaria) status in 1975 was included in the analyses, the gain of new infections between the two examination points was almost 10 times higher among individuals with low than among those with high MBL expression genotype (OR = 9.51). The susceptibility to W. bancrofti infection thus appears to be significantly affected by the MBL expression genotype of the host.
Severe Cysticercal Meningitis: Clinical and Imaging Characteristics
Authors: Cárdenas Graciela , Jung Helgi , Ríos Camilo , Fleury Agnes , Soto-Hernández José Luís
Published: January 2010

In disease-endemic areas, severe cysticercal meningitis (SCM) is characterized by intense inflammatory cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and negative bacterial and fungal cultures. There have been no systematic studies of SCM. We characterized patients with SCM and compare them with neurocysticercosis (NC) patients with mild CSF abnormalities by conducting a nine-year retrospective review at a neurological referral center. Two groups of patients were compared: group A, those with severe CSF pleocytosis > 1,000 cells/mm3 (n = 12), and group B, those with CSF pleocytosis ≤ 1,000 cells/mm3 (n = 126). All patients had positive CSF results in an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for cysticercal antigens and negative CSF cultures for bacteria, fungi, and mycobacteria. Intracranial hypertension, meningeal signs, CSF hypoglycorrachia, and a longer clinical course of NC were more frequently seen in group A. It is likely that SCM often goes unrecognized. Its correct identification may reduce morbidity and risks of unnecessary surgery in patients with chronic NC and CSF shunts.
Genotyping of Trypanosoma cruzi Sublineage in Human Samples from a North-East Argentina Area by Hybridization with DNA Probes and Specific Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
Authors: Diez Cristina , Lorenz Virginia , Ortiz Silvia , Gonzalez Verónica , Racca Andrea , Bontempi Iván , Manattini Silvia , Solari Aldo , Marcipar Iván
Published: January 2010

We have evaluated blood samples of chronic and congenital Trypanosoma cruzi-infected patients from the city of Reconquista located in the northeast of Argentina where no information was previously obtained about the genotype of infecting parasites. Fourteen samples of congenital and 19 chronical patients were analyzed by hybridization with DNA probes of minicircle hypervariable regions (mHVR). In congenital patients, 50% had single infections with TcIId, 7% single infections with TcIIe, 29% mixed infections with TcIId/e, and 7% had mixed infections with TcIId/b and 7% TcIId/b, respectively. In Chronical patients, 52% had single infections with TcIId, 11% single infections with TcIIe, 26% had mixed infections with TcIId/e, and 11% had non-identified genotypes. With these samples, we evaluated the minicircle lineage-specific polymerase chain reaction assay (MLS-PCR), which involves a nested PCR to HVR minicircle sequences and we found a correlation with hybridization probes of 96.4% for TcIId and 54.8% for TcIIe.
Evidence for Pleistocene Population Divergence and Expansion of Anopheles albimanus in Southern Central America
Authors: Loaiza Jose R. , Scott Marilyn E. , Bermingham Eldredge , Rovira Jose , Conn Jan E.
Published: January 2010

The micro-geographic structure of Anopheles albimanus was studied in southern Central America using partial sequences of the mtDNA cytochrome oxidase subunit I gene (COI). Analysis of molecular variance supported significant genetic structure between populations from Costa Rica and western Panama versus those from central-eastern Panama (ΦCT = 0.33), whereas the within group divergence was shallow and statistically insignificant (ΦST = 0.08). Furthermore, a statistical parsimony network depicted three divergent groups of haplotypes that were not evenly distributed across the study area. Our findings are in partial agreement with previous studies, yet they do not support physical barriers to gene flow or contemporary isolation by distance in this region. Instead, three co-occurring groups of An. albimanus may be the result of multiple introductions, most likely caused by historical fragmentation and subsequent secondary contact. In addition, the molecular signature of population expansion of An. albimanus was detected in central-eastern Panama approximately 22,000 years ago (95% confidence interval [CI] 10,183–38,169). We hypothesize that the population structure of An. albimanus, as determined by our COI locus analysis, is the result of late Pleistocene climatic changes in northern South America.
Quality Assurance of Rapid Diagnostic Tests for Malaria in Routine Patient Care in Rural Tanzania
Authors: McMorrow Meredith L. , Masanja M. Irene , Kahigwa Elizeus , Abdulla Salim M. K. , Kachur S. Patrick
Published: January 2010

Histidine-rich protein II (HRP2)-based malaria rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) have shown high sensitivity and specificity for detecting Plasmodium falciparum malaria in a variety of study settings. However, RDTs are susceptible to heat and humidity and variation in individual performance, which may affect their use in field settings. We evaluated sensitivity and specificity of RDTs during routine use for malaria case management in peripheral health facilities. From December 2007 to October 2008, HRP2-based ParaHIT-f RDTs were introduced in 12 facilities without available microscopy in Rufiji District, Tanzania. Health workers received a single day of instruction on how to perform an RDT and thick blood smear. Job aids, Integrated Management of Childhood Illness guidelines, and national malaria treatment algorithms were reviewed. For quality assurance (QA), thick blood smears for reference microscopy were collected for 2 to 3 days per week from patients receiving RDTs; microscopy was not routinely performed at the health facilities. Slides were stained and read centrally within 72 hours of collection by a reference microscopist. When RDT and blood smear results were discordant, blood smears were read by additional reference microscopists blinded to earlier results. Facilities were supervised monthly by the district laboratory supervisor or a member of the study team. Ten thousand six hundred fifty (10,650) patients were tested with RDTs, and 51.5% (5,488/10,650) had a positive test result. Blood smear results were available for 3,914 patients, of whom 40.1% (1,577/3,914) were positive for P. falciparum malaria. Overall RDT sensitivity was 90.7% (range by facility 85.7–96.5%) and specificity was 73.5% (range 50.0–84.3%). Sensitivity increased with increasing parasite density. Successful implementation of RDTs was achieved in peripheral health facilities with adequate training and supervision. Quality assurance is essential to the adequate performance of any laboratory test. Centralized staining and reading of blood smears provided useful monitoring of RDT performance. However, this level of QA may not be sustainable nationwide.
Three-Dimensional Reconstruction of Echinococcus multilocularis Larval Growth in Human Hepatic Tissue Reveals Complex Growth Patterns
Authors: Tappe Dennis , Zidowitz Stephan , Demmer Philipp , Kern Peter , Barth Thomas F. E. , Frosch Matthias
Published: January 2010

In this study we present, for the first time, a three-dimensional digital reconstruction of Echinococcus multilocularis larval growth in human tissue. Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded hepatic tissues from patients with alveolar echinococcosis were serially sectioned, stained, and areas of larval growth of the parasite were microphotographed. Parasitic structures were reconstructed from multiple digital planes, revealing a root-like network of interconnected vesicles and tubules extending into the periphery of lesions.
Surface Percolation and Growth. An alternative scheme for breaking the diffraction limit in optical patterning
Authors: Kunik D. , Pietrasanta L. I. , Martínez O. E.
Published: January 2010

A nanopatterning scheme is presented by which the structure height can be controlled in the tens of nanometers range and the lateral resolution is a factor at least three times better than the point spread function of the writing beam. The method relies on the initiation of the polymerization mediated by a very inefficient energy transfer from a fluorescent dye molecule after single photon absorption. The mechanism has the following distinctive steps: the dye adsorbs on the substrate surface with a higher concentration than in the bulk, upon illumination it triggers the polymerization, then isolated islands develop and merge into a uniform structure (percolation), which subsequently grows until the illumination is interrupted. This percolation mechanism has a threshold that introduces the needed nonlinearity for the fabrication of structures beyond the diffraction limit.Received: 9 November 2009, Accepted: 29 December 2009; Edited by: J. J. Niemela; Reviewed by: H. Cabrera Morales, Inst. Venezolano Invest. Científicas, Venezuela; DOI: 10.4279/PIP.010008
County-Level Atrazine Use and Gastroschisis
Authors: Krishnapura Sunaya R. , McNeer Elizabeth , Dupont William D. , Patrick Stephen W.
Published: May 2024

Importance

The incidence of gastroschisis, a birth defect involving the herniation of the small bowel through the abdominal wall, has increased in the US since the 1960s. The pesticide atrazine is a hypothesized cause of gastroschisis; however, examination of the association between atrazine and gastroschisis has been limited.

Objective

To evaluate national trends in gastroschisis incidence, maternal and infant characteristics associated with gastroschisis, and whether county-level atrazine use is associated with gastroschisis.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective, repeated cross-sectional study examined birth certificate data of all live births in the US and data on atrazine use from the US Geological Survey from January 1, 2009, through December 31, 2019. The data analysis was performed between August 5, 2021, and May 26, 2023.

Exposures

County-level atrazine use.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was gastroschisis incidence. Covariates included maternal age, race and ethnicity, body mass index (measured by weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared), parity, insurance type, Chlamydia infection during pregnancy, smoking, and rurality. Mixed-effects logistic regression models (year fixed effects and county random effects) were constructed using different county-level atrazine exposure variables (1-, 5-, and 10-year means).

Results

Between 2009 and 2019, 39 282 566 live births were identified, with 10 527 infant diagnoses of gastroschisis. Infants with gastroschisis were more likely to have mothers who identified as non-Hispanic White (61% vs 54%; P < .001), had a lower body mass index (median [IQR], 23.4 [20.8-27.2] vs 25.4 [22.0-30.8]; P < .001), were more likely to be nulliparous (median [IQR], 0 [0-1] vs 1 [0-2]; P < .001), and were more commonly covered by Medicaid (63% vs 43%; P < .001). During the study period, the rate (per 1000 live births) of gastroschisis decreased from 0.31 (95% CI, 0.29-0.33) to 0.22 (95% CI, 0.21-0.24). The median (IQR) county-level atrazine use estimates were higher among infants with gastroschisis (1 year, 1389 [IQR, 198-10 162] vs 1023 [IQR, 167-6960] kg; 5 years, 1425 [IQR, 273-9895] vs 1057 [IQR, 199-6926] kg; 10 years, 1508 [IQR, 286-10 271] vs 1113 [IQR, 200-6650] kg; P < .001). In adjusted models, higher county levels of atrazine (each 100 000-kg increase) were associated with a higher incidence of gastroschisis (1 year: adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 1.12 [95% CI, 1.01-1.24]; 5 years: AOR, 1.15 [95% CI, 1.02-1.30]; 10 years: AOR, 1.21 [95% CI, 1.07-1.38]).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cross-sectional study, higher county levels of atrazine were associated with infant diagnoses of gastroschisis. While atrazine is the second-most used herbicide in the US, numerous countries around the world have banned it out of concern for adverse effects on human health. These findings suggest that exploring alternatives to atrazine in the US may be warranted.
Antimicrobial Peptide‐Modified Liquid Metal Nanomaterials for Enhanced Antibacterial Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Wang Bo , Chen Sen , Feng Weichen , Shan Xiaohui , Zhu Xiyu , Yuan Ruizhi , Cao Yingjie , Fan Linlin , Yuan Bo , Wang Hongzhang , Zhou Gang , Liu Jing
Published: May 2024

The misuse of antibiotics has led to antibiotic‐resistant “superbugs,” prompting the exploration of alternative antibacterial strategies. This study focuses on the promising avenue of photothermal therapy (PTT). Despite numerous advantages, the clinical applicability of PTT as a sole sterilization strategy is hindered by the necessity for higher temperatures, potentially causing harm to healthy tissues. To overcome this challenge, this study introduces antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) to modify the surface of gallium‐based liquid metal (LM) nano‐antimicrobial agents, thereby enhancing their photothermal antibacterial effects within a lower temperature range. First, a novel LM composite nanomaterial, LM@AMP nanoparticles, is synthesized through a sonication process involving 1,2‐distearoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphoethanolamine‐N‐[carboxy(polyethylene glycol)], AMP, and LM in an aqueous solution. Herein, AMPs not only contribute to the structural stability of LM nanoparticles but also enhance their selective interaction with bacterial cell membranes. Then, a thorough characterization of LM@AMP nanoparticles is performed, encompassing analyses through electron microscopy, determination of particle size, and assessment of zeta potential. Moreover, the exceptional photothermal properties exhibited by these nanoparticles are validated. Finally, this investigation demonstrates that LM@AMP nanoparticles selectively target bacterial cell membranes, showcasing efficient bactericidal effects (near 100%) at relatively low temperatures under near‐infrared irradiation.
Synthesis of Mg2FeH6 by High‐Temperature High‐Pressure Reactive Planetary Ball Milling
Authors: Baran Agata , Jensen Torben Rene , Polański Marek
Published: May 2024

Herein, a new approach for the synthesis of metal hydrides using simultaneous high‐temperature and high‐pressure reactive ball milling is demonstrated by preparing ternary magnesium iron hydride. The novelty and uniqueness of this technique are based on its integration of a specially designed and manufactured milling vial, allowing synthesis at controlled elevated temperatures (room temperature [RT]–400 °C) and pressures up to 100 bar. A Mg and Fe (2:1) mixture is used as a substrate for Mg2FeH6 synthesis. The effects of temperature on the synthesis kinetics and their outcomes are examined. An increase in the temperature accelerates the kinetics of hydrogen absorption for MgH2, while Mg2FeH6 formation is observed only above 250 °C. Increasing the reaction temperature not only causes magnesium particle refinement due to the hydrogenation and formation of magnesium hydrides but also leads to the agglomeration of iron caused by plastification due to a lack of strain hardening. The maximum conversion to Mg2FeH6 is observed for the sample premilled at RT. In this work, it is revealed that additional physical variables, e.g., pressure, temperature, time, and milling speed, during mechanochemical synthesis and material properties, need to be evaluated and considered to improve the reaction kinetics and yield of the synthesis.
Enhanced Hydrogen Evolution in Porous and Hybrid g‐C3N4/Pt‐PVDF Electrospun Membranes via Piezoelectricity from Water Flow Energy
Authors: Chen Mengmeng , Hu Neng , Wang Weijia , Lei Lin , Fan Huiqing , Müller‐Buschbaum Peter , Zhong Qi
Published: May 2024

Inspired from seaweed swayed by waves, the enhanced hydrogen evolution is realized in porous and hybrid g‐C3N4/Pt‐PVDF electrospun membranes via piezoelectricity from water flow energy. The membranes are fabricated by dispersing g‐C3N4/Pt into the mixed solution of PVDF and PEO, followed by electrospinning and selective removal of PEO. By changing the PEO amount, the pore size in nanofibers is adjusted. Due to the hydrogen bonding between g‐C3N4/Pt and PVDF, the β phase of PVDF is increased, beneficial for the piezoelectricity performance. When the electrospun membranes are exposed to water flow, an additional potential field is triggered due to the deformation of PVDF. It not only eases the photogeneration of charge carriers from g‐C3N4/Pt but also hinders their recombination. The prolonged lifetime significantly improves the photocatalytic water splitting of g‐C3N4/Pt under visible light. The hydrogen evolution in the electrospun membranes (PVDF to PEO = 4:1) is profoundly improved to 9 278 µmol h−1 g−1, almost doubled to the pure g‐C3N4/Pt nanosheets (5 220 µmol h−1 g−1). Therefore, the seaweed‐inspired electrospun membrane is a promising strategy for the efficiently photocatalytic water splitting via g‐C3N4 in an aqueous environment, such as a natural sea and lake, by the piezoelectricity gained from the water flow energy.
Mild Thermotherapy‐Assisted GelMA/HA/MPDA@Roxadustat 3D‐Printed Scaffolds with Combined Angiogenesis‐Osteogenesis Functions for Bone Regeneration
Authors: You Jiaqian , Li Yangyang , Wang Chong , Lv Huixin , Zhai Shaobo , Liu Manxuan , Liu Xiuyu , Sezhen Quni , zhang Lu , Zhang Yidi , Zhou Yanmin
Published: May 2024

Early reconstruction of the vascular network is a prerequisite to the effective treatment of substantial bone defects. Traditional 3D printed tissue engineering scaffolds designed to repair large bone defects do not effectively regenerate the vascular network, and rely only on the porous structure within the scaffold for nutrient transfer and metabolic waste removal. This leads to delayed bone restoration and hence functional recovery. Therefore, strategies for generation scaffolds with the capacity to efficiently regenerate vascularization should be developed. This study loads roxarestat (RD), which can stabilize HIF‐1α expression in a normoxic environment, onto the mesopore polydopamine nanoparticles (MPDA@RD) to enhance the reconstruction of vascular network in large bone defects. Subsequently, MPDA@RD is mixed with GelMA/HA hydrogel bioink to fabricate a multifunctional hydrogel scaffold (GHM@RD) through 3D printing. In vitro results show that the GHM@RD scaffolds achieve good angiogenic‐osteogenic coupling by activating the PI3K/AKT/HSP90 pathway in BMSCs and the PI3K/AKT/HIF‐1α pathway in HUVECs under mild thermotherapy. In vivo experiments reveal that RD and mild hyperthermia synergistically induce early vascularization and bone regeneration of critical bone defects. In conclusion, the designed GHM@RD drug delivery scaffold with mild hyperthermia holds great therapeutic value for future treatment of large bone defects.
Regulation of Protein Conformation Enables Cell‐Selective Targeting of Virus‐Mimicking Nanoparticles for siRNA Therapy of Glioblastoma
Authors: Zhu Han , Wang Yi‐Fan , Wang Zhi‐Gang , Pang Dai‐Wen , Liu Shu‐Lin
Published: May 2024

Orthotopic glioblastoma (GBM) has an aggressive growth pattern and complex pathogenesis, becoming one of the most common and deadly tumors of the central nervous system (CNS). The emergence of RNA therapies offers promise for the treatment of GBM. However, the efficient and precise delivery of RNA drugs to specific tumor cells in the brain with high cellular heterogeneity remains ongoing. Here, a strategy is proposed to regulate protein conformation through lipid nanoenvironments to custom‐design virus‐mimicking nanoparticles (VMNs) with excellent selective cell targeting capabilities, leading to efficient and precise delivery of small interfering RNA for effective treatment of GBM. The optimized VMNs not only retain the ability to cross the blood–brain barrier and release the RNA by lysosomal escape like natural viruses but also ensure precise enrichment in the GBM area. This study lays the conceptual foundation for the custom design of VMNs with superior cell‐selective targeting capabilities and opens up the possibility of RNA therapies for the efficient treatment of GBM and CNS tumors.
Multi‐Scale Modeling of Surface Second‐Harmonic Generation in Centrosymmetric Molecular Crystalline Materials: How Thick is the Surface?
Authors: Zerulla Benedikt , Díaz Alejandro Luna , Holzer Christof , Rockstuhl Carsten , Fernandez‐Corbaton Ivan , Krstić Marjan
Published: May 2024

Second–harmonic generation (SHG) is forbidden in centrosymmetric materials. However, a signal is observed from interfaces where the symmetry is broken. Whereas the effect can be phenomenologically accommodated, a qualitative and quantitative description remained elusive, preventing the exploration of questions such as how deep below the surface the second–harmonic is generated. A multi–scale approach to compute the total and layer‐dependent intensity of surface SHG from molecular crystals is thus presented. The microscopic origin of surface SHG is identified in layer‐dependent models with embedding partial charges combined with density functional theory (DFT) showing symmetry‐breaking distortions of the electron cloud as the surface layer is approached. The SHG at the molecular level is determined using time‐dependent DFT and then brought to the macroscopic scale through a rigorous self‐consistent multiple scattering formalism. The intensity of the SHG at the surface layer is two orders of magnitude larger than at the next layer below and three orders of magnitude larger than two layers below. This approach can be used for designing and optimizing optical devices containing nonlinear molecular materials, such as molecular laminates. It is shown that a basic Kretschmann‐like setup can enhance the surface SHG of centrosymmetric molecular material a thousand times.
Advancing Light Scattering Control Through the Exploration of Temperature‐Sensitive Optical Modifiers
Authors: Jang Joseph , Kwon Hyuk Jun , Hwang Ki‐Seob , Lee Jun‐Young
Published: May 2024

Light scattering holds immense significance in various applications, including LED lighting, display enhancement, and solar cell optimization, emphasizing the critical role of understanding scattering mechanisms, especially light–matter interactions, achieving effective optical diffusion. Consequently, the influence of stimuli on material properties, including refractive indices and thermal expansion behavior, has emerged as a pivotal consideration, leading to the development of stimuli‐responsive light scattering modifier. Here, a temperature‐sensitive light scattering modifier composed of poly(methyl methacrylate‐co‐styrene) and poly(ethylene‐co‐vinyl acetate) is presented as scattering particles and matrix, respectively, using a melt‐blending process. Optical properties are evaluated across controlled temperatures 0–70 °C. These findings demonstrate an increasing trend in diffuse transmission and haze as temperatures increased across all light scattering modifiers. Significantly, the optimized light scattering modifier, integrating a dual particle system, showcased uniform reduction gaps in parallel transmission and adjustable haze characteristics across the visible spectrum under temperature control. This optical modifier achieved a total transmission of 92% and adjustable haze levels ranging from 35% to 90% under temperature control. Furthermore, this fabrication of three‐layer films incorporating the light scattering modifier exhibited identical characteristics to the developed light scattering modifier, emphasizing their potential for seamless integration across diverse technological domains.
PAD4 Inhibitor‐Functionalized Layered Double Hydroxide Nanosheets for Synergistic Sonodynamic Therapy/Immunotherapy Of Tumor Metastasis
Authors: Zhu Di , Lu Yu , Yang Shuqing , Hu Tingting , Tan Chaoliang , Liang Ruizheng , Wang Yuji
Published: May 2024

Sonodynamic therapy (SDT) is demonstrated to trigger the systemic immune response of the organism and facilitate the treatment of metastatic tumors. However, SDT‐mediated neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) formation can promote tumor cell spread, thus weakening the therapeutic effectiveness of metastatic tumors. Herein, the amorphous CoW‐layered double hydroxide (a‐CoW‐LDH) nanosheets are functionalized with a peptidyl arginine deiminase 4 (PAD4) inhibitor, i.e., YW3‐56, to construct a multifunctional nanoagent (a‐LDH@356) for synergistic SDT/immunotherapy. Specifically, a‐CoW‐LDH nanosheets can act as a sonosensitizer to generate abundant reactive oxygen species (ROS) under US irradiation. After loading with YW3‐56, a‐LDH@356 plus US irradiation not only effectively induces ROS generation and immunogenic cell death, but also inhibits the elevation of citrullinated histone H3 (H3cit) and the release of NETs, enabling a synergistic enhancement of anti‐tumor metastasis effect. Using 4T1 tumor model, it is demonstrated that combining a‐CoW‐LDH with YW3‐56 stimulates an anti‐tumor response by upregulating the proportion of immune‐activated cells and inducing polarization of M1 macrophages, and inhibits immune escape by downregulating the expression of PD‐1 on immune cells under US irradiation, which not only arrests primary tumor progression with a tumor inhibition rate of 69.5% but also prevents tumor metastasis with the least number of lung metastatic nodules.
Near‐unity broadband emissive hybrid manganese bromides as highly‐efficient radiation scintillators
Authors: Gong Zhongliang , Zhang Jie , Deng Xiangyuan , Ren Meng‐Ping , Wang Wen‐Qi , Wang Yu‐Jiao , Cao Hong , Wang Li , He Yuan‐Chun , Lei Xiao‐Wu
Published: May 2024

Zero‐dimensional (0D) hybrid manganese halides have gained wide attention for the various crystal structures, excellent optical performance and scintillation properties compared with 3D lead halide perovskite nanocrystals. In this work, a new family of 0D hybrid manganese halides of A2MnBr4 (A = BzTPP, Br‐BzTPP, and F‐BzTPP) based on discrete [MnBr4]2− tetrahedral units is reported as highly efficient lead‐free scintillators. Excited by UV or blue light, these hybrids emit bright green light originating from the d–d transition of Mn2+ with near‐unity PLQY (99.5%). Significantly, high PLQY and low self‐absorption render extraordinary radioluminescence properties with the highest light yield of 80,100 photons MeV−1, which reached the climax of present hybrid manganese halides and surpassed most commercial scintillators. The radioluminescence intensity features a linear response to X‐ray doses with a detection limit of 30 nGyair s−1, far lower than the requirement of medical diagnostic (5.5 µGyair s−1). X‐ray imaging demonstrates ultrahigh spatial resolution of 14.06 lp mm−1 and short afterglow of 0.3 ms showcasing promising application prospects in radiography. Overall, we demonstrated new hybrid manganese halides as promising scintillators for advanced applications in X‐ray imaging with multiple superiorities of nontoxicity, facile‐assembly process, high irradiation light yield, excellent resolution, and stability.
Harmful self‐pollination drives gynodioecy in European chestnut, a self‐incompatible tree
Authors: Larue Clément , Petit Rémy J.
Published: May 2024

Premise

Gynodioecy is a rare sexual system in which two genders (sensu Lloyd, 1980), cosexuals and females, coexist. To survive, female plants must compensate for their lack of siring capacity and male attractiveness. In European chestnut (Castanea sativa), an outcrossing tree, self‐pollination reduces fruit set in cosexual individuals because of late‐acting self‐incompatibility and early inbreeding depression. Could this negative sexual interaction explain the presence of females in this species?

Methods

We studied gender variation in wild populations of European chestnut. In addition, we compared fruit set (the proportion of flowers giving fruits) and other key female fitness components as well as reproductive allocation between genders. We then performed emasculation experiments in cosexual trees, by removing nectar‐producing fertile male inflorescences. We also removed sterile but nectar‐producing male inflorescences from female trees, as a control.

Results

We found a highly variable proportion of male‐sterile individuals in the wild in European chestnut. In the experimental plot, trees from each gender had similar size, flower density, and burr set, but different fruit set. Removing nectar‐producing male inflorescences from branches or entire trees increased fruit set in cosexual but not in female trees.

Conclusions

These results show that self‐pollination impairs fruit set in cosexual trees. Female trees avoid these problems as they do not produce pollen but continue to attract pollinators thanks to their rewarding male‐sterile inflorescences, resulting in a much higher fruit set than in cosexuals. This demonstrates that even outcrossed plants can benefit from the cessation of self‐pollination, to the point that unisexuality can evolve.
A systematic review/meta‐analysis of prevalence and incidence rates illustrates systemic underrepresentation of individuals racialized as Asian and/or Asian‐American in ADRD research
Authors: Zhu Yiqi , Park Soobin , Kolady Ramana , Zha Wenqing , Ma Ying , Dias Amanda , McGuire Katherine , Hardi Angela , Lin Sunny , Ismail Zahinoor , Adkins‐Jackson Paris B. , Trani Jean‐Francois , Babulal Ganesh M.
Published: May 2024

We investigate Alzheimer's disease and related dementia (ADRD) prevalence, incidence rate, and risk factors in individuals racialized as Asian and/or Asian‐American and assess sample representation. Prevalence, incidence rate, risk factors, and heterogeneity of samples were assessed. Random‐effects meta‐analysis was conducted, generating pooled estimates. Of 920 records across 14 databases, 45 studies were included. Individuals racialized as Asian and/or Asian‐American were mainly from Eastern and Southern Asia, had higher education, and constituted a smaller sample relative to non‐Hispanic white cohorts. The average prevalence was 10.9%, ranging from 0.4% to 46%. The average incidence rate was 20.03 (12.01‐33.8) per 1000 person‐years with a range of 75.19–13.59 (12.89‐14.33). Risk factors included physiological, genetic, psychological, behavioral, and social factors. This review underscores the systemic underrepresentation of individuals racialized as Asian and/or Asian‐American in ADRD research and the need for inclusive approaches accounting for culture, language, and immigration status.

Highlights

There is considerable heterogeneity in the prevalence of ADRD among studies of Asian‐Americans.

There is limited data on group‐specific risk factors for ADRD among Asian–Americans.

The average prevalence of (ADRD) among Asian–Americans was found to be 7.4%, with a wide range from 0.5% to 46%.
Role of extracted nanosilica from rice husk on the structure, property and biodegradability of low density polyethylene/starch biodegradable film
Authors: Datta Deepshikha , Santra Sampurna , Sarkar Sayantan , Das Bimal
Published: May 2024

Starch blended low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) has been extensively used to produce packaging film, but it has very low mechanical properties. This work emphasises the extraction of nanosilica from rice husk as a property‐enhancing filler for producing high‐quality packaging material. Nanosilica (200 nm) was obtained by chemical treatment followed by further size reduction through cryomill. The obtained nanomaterial was found to have a high surface area (189.64 m2/g) and pore volume (.462 cc/g) with high compatibility with the other materials in the matrix. The SEM and TEM analysis indicates the uniformity in particle size of the nanomaterial with an agglomerating tendency. The X‐ray diffractometer (XRD) and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis reveals that the obtained material is amorphous in nature. The nanomaterial is dispersed in various proportions in LDPE/starch matrix, and it is observed that the highest tensile strength (9.62 MPa) can be obtained at 1.5% nanosilica content in the matrix. A continuous increase in Young's modulus and stiffness from 372.3 to 440.12 MPa and 20 243.2 to 28 559.42 N/m, respectively, when 1.5% of nanosilica is dispersed in the biodegradable matrix. Garden soil was a better degrading medium for the sample containing 20% of starch with weight loss of 10.32% and reduction of tensile strength and tear strength values to 5.987 MPa and 99.165 N/mm respectively, in 1 year.
Positional heterogenization effect in salicylaldimine nickel catalyzed ethylene polymerization
Authors: Yu Fan , Gong Yanfeng , Liu Ning , Xu Guoyong , Li Pei , Liu Binyuan , Li Chao , Wang Fuzhou
Published: May 2024

Heterogenization of nickel‐based olefin polymerization catalysts has received increasing attention in recent years. In this contribution, positional heterogenization effect in salicylaldimine nickel catalyzed ethylene polymerization is studied. The salicylaldimine nickel pre‐catalysts bearing anchor groups are synthesized, characterized, and investigated in heterogeneous catalytic ethylene polymerization. The anchoring groups are installed at different positions, including the 4‐position of the salicylaldehyde moiety and the 4‐position of the aniline moiety. It is shown that the positions of the anchoring groups have significant effects on heterogeneous ethylene polymerization catalyzed by SiO2‐supported salicylaldimine nickel catalysts. This provides a strategy worth considering for the design of high‐performance heterogeneous catalysts in the future.
Fabrication of microcapsules with graphene/organic hybrid shell based on Pickering emulsions for self‐healing anti‐corrosive coatings
Authors: Yan Zhen , Liu Yujie , Cao Yizhao , Quan Guipeng , Li Weiwen , Li DaiMei , Wu Yunhuan , Xiao Linghan , Yu Fei
Published: May 2024

During the utilization of organic coatings, microcracks may arise as a result of external environmental influences and inherent aging, significantly diminishing the coating's lifespan. In this study, we employed the Pickering emulsion template method combined with interfacial polymerization to fabricate graphene oxide/polyurethane/polyaniline (GO/PU/PANI) organic–inorganic hybrid shell microcapsules utilizing isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) as the core material. The capsules exhibited an average particle diameter of 3.11 μm and an encapsulation rate of 78.19%. Subsequently, these prepared capsules were incorporated into a photocurable resin to obtain a self‐healing corrosion‐resistant coating. Scanning electron microscopy analysis demonstrated that even with just 5% addition of microcapsules, nearly complete repair could be achieved. The tensile strength and flexural strength of the self‐healing material containing 5% microcapsules were measured at 84.8 MPa and 193 MPa respectively. These values represented only a marginal decrease in tensile strength by 2.75% and flexural strength by 5.39%, compared to the substrate without capsule addition. Remarkably, after immersing the repaired coating in a NaCl solution with a concentration of 5 wt% for up to 250 hours, the alternating current impedance value remained stable at approximately 6.9 × 105 Ω·cm2. This outstanding corrosion resistance can be attributed to synergistic effects between PANI and IPDI within the coating system, thereby expanding its potential applications under harsh conditions.
Care trajectories and imagining potential: Positioning the need for skills, confidence and communication among key professionals supporting the higher education progression of care‐experienced young people
Authors: Hinton‐Smith Tamsin , Cane Tam
Published: May 2024

This paper sets out to develop understanding around supporting the journeys of care‐experienced young people towards higher education (HE) in South‐East England, through the professionals working with them. Those with care experience remain less likely than others to enter HE. In contrast to individualised approaches that implicitly or explicitly assume a deficit in care‐experienced young people to be ‘filled’ by approaches focusing on increasing their resilience and aspiration, we focus here on the role of professionals who work with them. Findings discussed here come from a set of interviews with seven foster carers and three social workers, carried out as part of a wider project involving an interprofessional team encompassing education, social work and widening participation. We identify that while professionals are often motivated to support care‐experienced young people in progressing to HE, many lack the necessary skills and knowledge. This leads us to identify the need for more targeted support both from and for professionals, for young people and those who work with them, to be able to imagine and create HE futures. This requires wider understanding around the impact of trauma on young people's ability to engage with education opportunities, and the need for recognition of the potential of care‐experienced young people and differential targeting of resources, drawing on insights from Sen's capabilities approach.