bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Medicaid expansion on pregnancy outcomes among women with gestational diabetes
Authors: Akinyemi Oluwasegun , Ogundare Temitope , Fasokun Mojisola , Nwokolo Vania , Weldeslase Terhas , McDonald Vanesa , Colon‐Santos Lyanne , Luo Guoyang
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) aims to broaden health care access and significantly impacts obstetric practices. Yet, its effect on maternal and neonatal outcomes among women with gestational diabetes across diverse demographics is underexplored.

Objective

This study examines the impact of the implementation of the ACA on maternal and neonatal health in Maryland with ACA implementation and Georgia without ACA implementation.

Methodology

We used data from the Maryland State Inpatient Database and US Vital Statistics System to assess the ACA's influence on maternal and neonatal outcomes in Maryland, with Georgia serving as a nonexpansion control state. Outcomes compared include cesarean section (CS) rates, low Apgar scores, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admissions, and assisted ventilation 7 h postdelivery. We adjusted for factors including women's age, race, insurance type, preexisting conditions, prior CS, prepregnancy obesity, weight gain during pregnancy, birth weight, labor events, and antenatal practices.

Results

The study included 52 479 women: 55.8% from Georgia and 44.2% from Maryland. Post‐ACA, CS rates were 45.1% in Maryland versus 48.2% in Georgia (P = 0.000). Maryland demonstrated better outcomes, including lower rates of low Agar scores (odds ratio [OR], 0.74 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.63–0.86]), assisted ventilation (OR, 0.79 [95% CI, 0.71–0.82]), and NICU admissions (OR, 0.76 [95% CI, 0.71–0.82]), but no significant change in CS rates (OR, 0.96 [95% CI, 0.92–1.01]).

Conclusion

After ACA implementation, Maryland showed improved maternal and neonatal outcomes compared with Georgia, a nonexpansion state.
Pharmacist certification of drug therapy modification: A survey of pharmacist‐reported practices, facilitators, and barriers in Georgia
Authors: Stone Rebecca H. , Johnson Blake R. , Lavender Devin L. , Phillips Beth Bryles , Keedy Chelsea A. , Palmer Russ , Young Henry N. , Osae Sharmon P.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Collaborative drug therapy management (CDTM) allows pharmacists to assess patients, administer medications, manage and adjust medication regimens, and order laboratory tests within a defined protocol. Pharmacist CDTM may aid in preventative care and chronic condition management.

Objectives

The primary objectives were to identify CDTM services provided by pharmacists in the state of Georgia, examine factors associated with the provision of CDTM services, and identify barriers and facilitators to CDTM service provision. The secondary objective was to assess differences in CDTM practice between pharmacists who completed a Registered Pharmacist (R.Ph.)/Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.), postgraduate year one (PGY1), or postgraduate year two (PGY2) residency.

Methods

Using the Dilman method, this cross‐sectional study invited all 134 CDTM‐licensed pharmacists in Georgia to complete a 30‐min electronic survey. Data included demographics, training, services offered, disease states managed, and perceptions regarding CDTM implementation. Descriptive statistics, Welchs analysis of variance (ANOVA), and chi‐square were conducted using SPSS v28.

Results

A total of 36 (26.9%) pharmacists completed the survey. Participants offered a median of three CDTM services. A majority offered medication therapy management (86.1%) and chronic care management (66.7%). A majority offered services for diabetes (58.3%), hyperlipidemia (55.6%), and hypertension (55.6%). There were differences in the mean ranked number of CDTM services offered between R.Ph./Pharm.D. and PGY2 groups (−11.667, p = 0.019), and the mean ranked number of disease states covered between R.Ph./Pharm.D. and PGY1 (−10.990, p = 0.029) and R.Ph./Pharm.D. and PGY2 (−12.640, p = 0.010, adjusted p‐value) groups. Reported CDTM facilitators were job requirements, expanding patient care, job satisfaction/personal advancement, and expanding professional practice. Reported challenges were continuing education, clinical/interprofessional concerns, administration issues with the board of pharmacy or individual practice site, and regulations differing from other states.

Conclusion

Of those with CDTM licensure, a majority offer medication therapy management and chronic care management services covering diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. Postgraduate training may help prepare pharmacists to engage in CDTM services.
HIV pre‐exposure prophylaxis champion preceptorship training for pharmacists and nurses in the United States
Authors: Saberi Parya , Su Hoa , Mendiola Julian , Gruta Cristina , Lutes Erin R. , Dong Betty , Bositis Chris , Chu Carolyn
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Relatively little has been published on human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) training efforts and outcomes among clinicians working at community health centers and safety net clinical settings.

Objectives

This study describes the National Clinician Consultation Center's (NCCC's) PrEP training content development and learning outcomes.

Methods

The training consisted of a multidisciplinary capacity‐building program designed to increase PrEP‐related clinical knowledge and skills among pharmacy and nursing professionals at community health centers in “Ending the HIV Epidemic” priority jurisdictions. Descriptive statistics were used to report on the results of this training.

Results

Two groups of learners completed the hybrid training program in 2022 (total, N = 50). A comparison of pretraining and posttraining evaluations indicated that, collectively, learners' self‐rated knowledge increased across all assessment domains including PrEP eligibility, disparities, laboratory monitoring, medication options and pharmacotherapy decision‐making, and delivery of person‐centered care. Learners rated the experience favorably, particularly for large group case discussion sessions. Among the 15 learners who completed the 6‐month follow‐up survey, many indicated an increase in PrEP services as well as additional training of colleagues and clinic staff.

Conclusion

The NCCC's uniquely developed PrEP capacity‐building program is a highly acceptable and valuable training program that can help increase PrEP‐related clinical knowledge and skills among pharmacy and nursing professionals at community health centers across the United States.
Social problem‐solving in intimate partner violence victims: Exploring the relative contributions of shame and PTSD symptoms
Authors: Beck J. Gayle , Griffith Elizabeth L. , Majeed Rimsha , Beyer Melissa S. , Bowen Mya E. , Free Bre'Anna L.
Published: March 2024

Objective

This study examined the contributions of shame and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms to two dimensions of social problem‐solving.

Method

A sample of 426 women who were seeking mental health assistance following experiences of intimate partner violence completed self‐report and clinician measures. Separate path analyses were conducted for problem orientation and problem‐solving styles.

Results

In the model examining problem orientation, higher levels of shame were significantly associated with lower levels of positive problem orientation (f2 = 0.32) and higher levels of negative problem orientation (f2 = 0.92), with large effects noted. PTSD symptoms were significantly, positively associated with negative problem orientation (f2 = 0.3, large effect). When examining problem‐solving styles, shame showed a significant negative association with rational style (f2 = 0.08, small effect) and significant positive associations with impulsive style (f2 = 0.45, large effect) and avoidant style (f2 = 0.48, large effect). PTSD symptoms did not return significant associations with any of the three problem‐solving styles.

Conclusion

Results indicate that shame holds notable associations with both dimensions of social problem‐solving, relative to PTSD symptoms, and are discussed in light of current models of post‐trauma functioning. Implications for clinical care and early intervention efforts are highlighted.
Anterolateral augmentation procedures during anterior cruciate ligament reconstructions in skeletally immature patients: Scoping review of surgical techniques and outcomes
Authors: Dietvorst Martijn , Verhagen Stéphanie , van der Steen Marieke C. , van Douveren Florens Q. M. P. , Janssen Rob P. A.
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Graft failure rates after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) in children and adolescents are higher compared to adults. Anterolateral augmentation procedures have recently generated increased focus regarding their ability to reduce graft failure rates. Concerns in skeletally immatures are potential growth disturbances and overconstraint after anterolateral augmentation. The aim of this scoping review is to provide an overview of all current anterolateral augmentation procedures in skeletally immature patients and to discuss surgical techniques, clinical and biomechanical outcomes.

Methods

This scoping review was performed following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis) statement extension for scoping reviews. On 22 December 2022, an information specialist performed a systematic literature search in Cochrane, PubMed (Medline) and EMBASE databases. Inclusion criteria were anterolateral augmentation procedures, including lateral extra‐articular tenodesis (LET) and anterolateral ligament reconstruction (ALLR), in combination with ACLR in skeletally immatures.

Results

Twenty studies were included after screening 1.485 abstracts. Seventeen studies describe LET techniques, four studies ALLR techniques and one study both techniques. Biomechanical data is scarce and shows conflicting results. Two studies compared ACLR with LET to ACLR in skeletally immatures with promising results in favour of the combined procedure. There were no differences in outcomes between LET and ALLR.

Conclusions

Several LET and ALLR techniques have been described for skeletally immature patients and the first clinical data on LET and ALLR is available, which showed promising results. Further research is necessary to evaluate the risk of growth disturbances and overconstraint in skeletally immatures.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Integrating density functional theory and chemical ionization mass spectrometry techniques to assess benzophenone derivatives in food packaging: implications for enhancing food quality and safety
Authors: Bhatia Manjeet
Published: March 2024

Benzophenone and related derivatives are widely used as photoinitiators for food packaging to cure inks or lacquers with ultraviolet (UV) light on cardboard and paper. However, there are concerns about the potential health risks of their migration into food. Knowing the physical and chemical properties of benzophenone and its derivatives could play a significant role in their quantification and analysis using chemical ionization mass spectrometry (CI‐MS) methods. These parameters are evaluated using B3LYP/6‐311++** density functional theory (DFT) implemented on Gaussian code. Ion–molecule chemistry through the selection of reagent ions, reaction energetics and kinetics, thermodynamic stability, and reactivity of molecules deemed to foster VOC identification and quantification via CI‐MS techniques. The VOCs under study are expected to undergo exothermic reactions from H3O+, NH4+, NO+, and O2+ ions, except endothermic proton transfer from NH4+ to 2‐hydroxy‐4‐methoxybenzophenone and 2,3,4‐trihydroxy benzophenone. These compounds possess less proton affinities than NH3 and are least stable in their protonated forms. The DFT computed properties provide the basis for developing reliable and accurate methods to detect and measure the presence of benzophenone and its derivatives in packaging materials and food products.
Identification and genetic characterization of a recently identified enterovirus C116 in China
Authors: Han Zhen‐Zhi , Li Ji‐Chen , Xiao Jin‐Bo , Hong Mei , Lu Huan‐Huan , Song Yang , Liu Ying , Wang Rui , Fu Han‐Haoyu , Wang Fang‐Ming , Zhu Shuang‐Li , Yan Dong‐Mei , Ji Tian‐Jiao , Zhao Lin‐Qing , Zhang Yong
Published: March 2024

Enterovirus C116 (EV‐C116) is a new member of the enterovirus C group which is closely associated with several infectious diseases. Although sporadic studies have detected EV‐C116 in clinical samples worldwide, there is currently limited information available. In this study, two EV‐C‐positive fecal specimens were detected in apparently healthy children, which harbored low abundance, through meta‐transcriptome sequencing. Based on the prototypes of several EV‐Cs, two lineages were observed. Lineage 1 included many types that could not cause EV‐like cytopathic effect in cell culture. Three genogroups of EV‐C116 were divided in the maximum likelihood tree, and the two strains in this study (XZ2 and XZ113) formed two different lineages, suggesting that EV‐C116 still diffuses worldwide. Obvious inter‐type recombination events were observed in the XZ2 strain, with CVA22 identified as a minor donor. However, another strain (XZ113) underwent different recombination situations, highlighting the importance of recombination in the formation of EV‐Cs biodiversity. The EV‐C116 strains could propagate in rhabdomyosarcoma cell cultures at low titer; however, EV‐like cytopathic effects were not observed. HEp‐2, L20B, VERO, and 293T cell lines did not provide an appropriate environment for EV‐C116 growth. These results challenge the traditional recognition of the uncultured nature of EV‐C116 strains and explain the difficulty of clinical detection.
Investigating the Upper Holocene palaeoenvironment and human subsistence strategy in the Khor Rori coastal area by studying mollusc remains from the Inqitat plateau (Dhofar, Sultanate of Oman)
Authors: Crippa Gaia , Lischi Silvia , Cremaschi Mauro
Published: March 2024

Archaeological shells have a great potential for reconstructing past environments and human–environment interactions. The Inqitat plateau (Khor Rori Archaeological Park, Oman) shows rich mollusc assemblages, present in the HAS1 settlement and in a shell midden nearby (Iron Age). By analysing the environmental requirements of the species identified in the assemblages, we reconstruct the past coastal environment and investigate its exploitation by the local population and human activities during the settlement occupation. This is the first multidisciplinary investigation of Iron Age molluscs from Dhofar. Our results indicate that the environment surrounding the site was characterised by rocky shores and shallow‐water sandy to sandy‐muddy substrates, where locals collected shells. Mangrove species were recovered in few numbers, indicating that this environment was restricted or not exploited. Furthermore, a different use of shells between circular houses within the settlement and the midden was observed; in the former, species used as ornaments are more abundant, whereas, in the latter, species used for food purposes are found, confirming the primary use of the midden as a dump. The presence of easily accessible settings for mollusc collection in the site's vicinity and the richness in food resources due to a coastal upwelling makes this region very attractive for human populations.
Nonlinear Dynamics of Higher‐Order Quasi‐Phase‐Matched Dispersive Waves Formation in Dispersion‐Oscillating Liquid‐Core Fibers
Authors: Qi Xue , Lühder Tilman A. K. , Scheibinger Ramona , Eschrich Tina , Chemnitz Mario , Schmidt Markus A.
Published: March 2024

Here, the concept of generating higher‐order dispersive waves (DWs) via quasi‐phase‐matching (QPM) in periodically dispersion‐modulated liquid‐core fibers are demonstrated by generating distinct narrowband sidebands generated outside the conventional supercontinuum (SC) spectrum. Through controlled partial core collapse, the commonly used phase‐matching (PM) condition is amended by an additional grating‐related term. This results in the generation of ultrashort higher‐order DWs controlled by the grating parameters, extending the conventional SC spectrum up to 3 . Of particular interest is the excellent overlap of the QPM‐peaks obtained from experiments, simulations, and PM considerations, showing the quality of the implementation approach and allowing for controlled narrowband peaks generation even for femtosecond input pulses. In summary, this multicolor generation concept embodies a versatile photonic platform with unique dispersion control capabilities for the transfer of spectral power into selected narrowband spectral intervals. It stands out with its unique capabilities, making it well‐suited for applications in diverse fields like bioanalytics, life sciences, quantum technology, and metrology.
High Dose Progesterone Loaded PCL‐Polysorbate 80 Transdermal Fibers for Potential Application in Gynecological Oncology
Authors: Shafi Omar , Phadnis Saurabh , Chan Un Hou , Edirisinghe Mohan , Brako Francis
Published: March 2024

Progesterone (P4), commonly administered in high doses for endometrial cancer palliative management, has limitations in current delivery systems. This preliminary in vitro drug release study introduces electrospun patches to offer a new perspective on P4 delivery. The study aimed to assess the influence of the surfactant polysorbate 80 (PS80) on the release of P4 from polycaprolactone (PCL) fibers. The PS80 effects are examined to inform the fine‐tuning of the fibre generation process. Patches developed, PCL wet (with PS80) and PCL dry (without PS80), showed encapsulation efficiencies of 76% and 42%, respectively. The dose levels studied are 6.1 mg for PCL wet and 4.4 mg for PCL dry samples. Molecular studies show that higher surfactant levels improved P4‐polymer mixing, enhancing dissolution and release rates. Patches with PS80 released 66% of the drug in 17 h, while those without released only 51%. Release data best fit the Weibull model, showcasing promise for these patches in transdermal P4 delivery. This study offers a non‐invasive option compared to traditional methods and underscores the need for further research to confirm the patches' clinical effectiveness for potential use in gynecological oncology.
Tailoring Nanostructured Cellulose for Efficient Pickering Emulsions Stabilization
Authors: Pirozzi Annachiara , Bettotti Paolo , Facchinelli Tiziano , D'Amato Elvira , Scarpa Marina , Donsì Francesco
Published: March 2024

Nanostructured celluloses, nanofibrils (CNFs) and nanocrystals (CNCs), are prepared through TEMPO‐mediated oxidation by controlling the intensity of the process modulated by catalyst concentration and processing time. These nanomaterials are evaluated as stabilizers for Pickering emulsions, fabricated using high‐pressure homogenization (HPH). Both CNFs and CNCs exhibit efficient steric and electrostatic stabilization of oil‐in‐water (O/W) emulsions. CNFs display strong inter‐droplet interactions, leading to the formation of a 3D fibrous network emulsion with higher viscosity compared to CNCs‐stabilized emulsions. However, CNFs also show a higher tendency toward flocculation, due to fibrils’ entanglement in the continuous phase. Interestingly, the HPH treatment has a notable impact on the CNFs’ interfacial layer, enhancing the emulsifying ability of CNFs and improving stability against coalescence. Conversely, CNCs‐stabilized emulsions exhibit lower viscosity but demonstrate higher interfacial activity and stabilization capability. Remarkably, no phase separation during 10 months of refrigerated storage, indicating excellent long‐term stability. Importantly, the HPH treatment does not significantly change the emulsifying ability of CNCs. In conclusion, this study highlights the possibility of obtaining nanocelluloses (NCs) with tailored emulsifying properties by regulating the intensity of TEMPO‐mediated oxidation applied to pulp cellulose. These findings open up new opportunities for the development of innovative ingredients for the food and cosmetic industries.
Computational investigation of high Curie temperature in a new N‐type ferromagnetic diluted magnetic semiconductors, especially iron‐doped on GaSb
Authors: Mekuye Bawoke , Atnafu Dagne , Yibeltal Ayenew , Abera Mesfin
Published: March 2024

Diluted magnetic semiconductors have become a research area in the past few years due to the importance of new technology, spintronics devices, and green technology to withstand rising global temperatures. Both n‐type and p‐type diluted magnetic semiconductors are used in pairs for perfect performance, especially for p‐n junction diodes, the p‐d Zener model, GMR, and TMR spintronics devices. The main challenge for some researchers is to find a ferromagnetic diluted magnetic semiconductor with a Curie temperature greater than room temperature for both n‐type and p‐type ferromagnetic diluted semiconductors, but this study has solved this problem. In the present study, the ferromagnetic properties of an n‐type gallium iron antimonide diluted semiconductor have been studied using the Hamiltonian model without applying an external magnetic field, electric field, or chemical potential. We have formulated a Hamiltonian model in the system, considering the application of the green formalism function and the transformation of Holstein–Primakaff. The Curie temperature, dispersion, number of magnons, reduced magnetization, and specific heat capacity of ferromagnetic magnons of the n‐type (Ga, Fe)Sb formula are formulated. The Curie temperature versus concentration graph is plotted, and the specific heat capacity and magnetization versus temperature graphs are plotted. In this study, a surprising situation is that the Curie temperature of n‐type diluted magnetic semiconductor is investigated above room temperature, which is 330.4 K. The ferromagnetic properties of appear up to 330.4 K, which is able to play a major role in spintronic and next‐generation green nanotechnology devices.
Assessment of continuous laser ablation model for lightweight quartz fiber reinforced phenolic composite
Authors: Yan Xiaojie , Jin Xiangyu , Pan Yiwu , Wang Hebing , Fan Zhaolin , Hong Changqing , Zhang Xinghong
Published: March 2024

A comprehensive investigation into the interaction between a continuous wave (CW) laser and lightweight quartz fiber reinforced phenolic (LQFRP) composite would provide valuable insights into the characteristics and performance of ablation. To simulate the CW laser ablation of LQFRP composite, a 2D symmetrical element model was developed, incorporating the heat conduction equation, resin pyrolysis mechanism, and deformed geometry module. This model was the first to examine the internal pyrolysis degree and gas flow field of LQFRP composite under CW laser irradiation, and its predictions were in reasonable agreement with experimental measurements. Additionally, the model was used to simulate CW laser ablation with varying spot sizes and power densities. The results revealed that during the laser ablation process, an internal high‐pressure zone formed on the side of the ablation hole. The volatilization of SiO2 was identified as the dominant dissipation mechanism for material removal. The width of the ablation hole was positively correlated with the laser spot size, while the depth of the ablation hole was positively correlated with the laser power density.

Highlights

The model first studied the internal pyrolysis degree and flow field of LQFRP composite under laser irradiation.

The volatilization of SiO2 was identified as the dominant dissipation mechanism for material removal.

An internal high‐pressure zone formed on the side of the ablation hole during the laser ablation process.

The width of the ablation hole was positively correlated with the laser spot size, while the depth of the ablation hole was positively correlated with the laser power density.
Anti‐LGI1 encephalitis preceded by psychiatric symptoms: A case report
Authors: Numazawa Takuma , Kobayashi Ryota , Shirata Toshinori , Kondo Toshiyuki , Sato Hiroyasu , Tanaka Keiko , Suzuki Akihito
Published: March 2024

Background

To date, only a few reports of anti‐LGI1 encephalitis with isolated psychiatric symptoms in the initial phase have been reported. We present a relatively rare case of antileucine‐rich glioma‐inactivated 1 (LGI1) encephalitis that developed only psychiatric symptoms at the onset.

Case Presentation

The patient was a male in his 40s who developed anxiety and panic symptoms and was started on antidepressants after being diagnosed with panic disorder by a psychiatrist. He visited our hospital 2 months later presenting with hallucinations, delusions, mild cognitive decline, and faciobrachial dystonic seizures in the left upper extremity and face. Fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery magnetic resonance imaging revealed swelling and hyperintensities in the right caudate nucleus and putamen. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis did not show increased protein levels or cell counts and revealed positive oligoclonal bands. Subsequently, positive results for anti‐LGI1 antibodies were observed in the cerebrospinal fluid. Therefore, the patient was diagnosed with anti‐LGI1 encephalitis.

Conclusion

This case highlights the need to consider anti‐LGI1 encephalitis therapy in patients with acute‐onset psychiatric symptoms.
Self‐healing waterborne fluorinated polyurethane‐acrylate based on photoreversible reaction and hydrogen bonds
Authors: Liu Xiuqing , Zhou Jianhua , Li Hong
Published: March 2024

The development of self‐healing materials is an effective strategy to improve the service life of polymer materials. In this study, self‐healing waterborne fluorinated polyurethane‐acrylate (WFPUA) containing UV‐responsive coumarin groups was prepared by Pickering emulsion polymerization using modified cellulose nanocrystal as a stabilizer. The effect of double bond‐terminated waterborne polyurethane content on emulsion polymerization and latex film properties was mainly studied. Due to the dynamic reversibility of the coumarin groups and the synergistic effect of hydrogen bonds, the optimized sample (WFPUA‐30) had excellent mechanical properties and self‐healing properties. The tensile strength was 5.24 MPa and the elongation at break was 267%. The self‐healing efficiency of tensile strength and elongation at break after 6 h of repair was 86.52% and 93.20%, respectively. In addition, due to the presence of fluorine‐containing groups, the water and oil contact angles of the latex film could reach 101.7° and 82.1°, respectively. This work broadens the way for the manufacture of self‐healing and multifunctional waterborne polyurethane‐acrylates. © 2024 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
A novel micropeptide, Slitharin, exerts cardioprotective effects in myocardial infarction
Authors: Ibrahim Ahmed G. E. , Ciullo Alessandra , Yamaguchi Shukuro , Li Chang , Antes Travis , Jones Xaviar , Li Liang , Murali Ramachandran , Maslennikov Innokentiy , Sundararaman Niveda , Soetkamp Daniel , Cingolani Eugenio , Van Eyk Jennifer , Marbán Eduardo
Published: March 2024

Purpose: Micropeptides are an emerging class of proteins that play critical roles in cell signaling. Here, we describe the discovery of a novel micropeptide, dubbed slitharin (Slt), in conditioned media from Cardiosphere‐derived cells (CDCs), a therapeutic cardiac stromal cell type.

Experimental design: We performed mass spectrometry of peptide‐enriched fractions from the conditioned media of CDCs and a therapeutically inert cell type (human dermal fibrobasts). We then evaluated the therapeutic capacity of the candidate peptide using an in vitro model of cardiomyocyte injury and a rat model of myocardial infarction.

Results: We identified a novel 24‐amino acid micropeptide (dubbed Slitharin [Slt]) with a non‐canonical leucine start codon, arising from long intergenic non‐coding (LINC) RNA 2099. Neonatal rat ventricular myocytes (NRVMs) exposed to Slt were protected from hypoxic injury in vitro compared to a vehicle or scrambled control. Transcriptomic analysis of cardiomyocytes exposed to Slt reveals cytoprotective capacity, putatively through regulation of stress‐induced MAPK‐ERK. Slt also exerted cardioprotective effects in rats with myocardial infarction as shown by reduced infarct size 48 h post‐injury.

Conclusions and clinical relavance: Thus, Slt is a non‐coding RNA‐derived micropeptide, identified in the extracellular space, with a potential cardioprotective function.
The myeloperoxidase inhibitor mitiperstat (AZD4831) does not prolong the QT interval at expected therapeutic doses
Authors: Parkinson Joanna , Sundell Jesper , Rekić Dinko , Nelander Karin , Ericsson Hans , Ebrahimi Ahmad , Dota Corina , Sunnåker Mikael
Published: March 2024

Mitiperstat is a myeloperoxidase inhibitor in clinical development for treatment of patients with heart failure and preserved or mildly reduced ejection fraction, non‐alcoholic steatohepatits and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. We aimed to assess the risk of QT‐interval prolongation with mitiperstat using concentration–QT (C‐QT) modeling. Healthy male volunteers were randomized to receive single oral doses of mitiperstat 5, 15, 45, 135, or 405 mg (n = 6 per dose) or matching placebo (n = 10) in a phase 1 study (NCT02712372). Time‐matched pharmacokinetic and digital electrocardiogram data were collected at the baseline (pre‐dose) and at 11 time‐points up to 48 h post‐dose. C‐QT analysis was prespecified as an exploratory objective. The prespecified linear mixed effects model used baseline‐adjusted QT interval corrected for the heart rate by Fridericia's formula (ΔQTcF) as a dependent variable and plasma mitiperstat concentration as an independent variable. Initial exploratory analyses indicated that all model assumptions were met (no effect on heart rate; appropriate use of QTcF; no hysteresis; linear concentration–response relationship). Model‐predicted mean baseline‐corrected and placebo‐adjusted ΔΔQTcF was +0.73 ms (90% confidence interval [CI]: −1.73, +3.19) at the highest anticipated clinical exposure (0.093 μmol/L) during treatment with mitiperstat 5 mg once daily. The upper 90% CI was below the established threshold of regulatory concern. The 16‐fold margin to the highest observed exposure was high enough to mean that a positive control was not needed. Mitiperstat is not associated with risk of QT‐interval prolongation at expected therapeutic concentrations.
Inhibitory effects and mechanisms of cinnamaldehyde against Fusarium oxysporum, a serious pathogen in potatoes
Authors: Zhang Chunlin , Liu Hongling , Wang Xue , Long Xueyan , Huang Airong , Zhang Jiaomei , Geng Jiahui , Yang Liting , Huang Zhenlin , Dong Pan , Shi Lei
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Potatoes, a major economic crop, are significantly impacted by Fusarium dry rot, a prevalent postharvest disease. Despite the broad‐spectrum antimicrobial properties of cinnamaldehyde, a naturally‐derived plant substance, its efficacy against the causal pathogen of potato dry rot (Fusarium oxysporum) and the underlying mechanisms have not been extensively studied.

RESULTS

Our study demonstrates that cinnamaldehyde effectively inhibits the growth of Fusarium oxysporum, the pathogen responsible for potato dry rot, and increases its sensitivity to environmental stress factors such as extreme temperatures and high salt stress. Treatment with cinnamaldehyde results in altered fungal mycelium morphology, compromised cell wall stability, and disrupted cell membrane integrity, thereby reducing spore viability. Specifically, it interferes with the cell membrane and cell wall structures of the fungus, potentially disrupting fungal growth by modulating signaling pathways involved in cell wall maintenance, chitin metabolism, and GPI‐anchored protein function. Notably, we show that cinnamaldehyde induces a form of regulated cell death in F. oxysporum, which is characterized not as typical apoptosis, as evidenced by Annexin V negative staining. However, the specific cell death type and underlying mechanism still needed to be further explored.

CONCLUSION

Cinnamaldehyde, an environmentally friendly plant‐based active compound, exhibits strong inhibitory effects on F. oxysporum, indicating its potential use in the prevention and control strategies for potato dry rot. This research contributes to the understanding of novel antifungal mechanisms and offers promising insights into eco‐friendly alternatives for managing this economically significant postharvest disease. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Mycorrhiza‐induced resistance in citrus against Tetranychus urticae is plant species dependent and inversely correlated to basal immunity
Authors: Manresa‐Grao María , Pastor Victoria , Sánchez‐Bel Paloma , Cruz Ana , Cerezo Miguel , Jaques Josep A , Flors Víctor
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Mycorrhizal plants show enhanced resistance to biotic stresses, but few studies have addressed mycorrhiza‐induced resistance (MIR) against biotic challenges in woody plants, particularly citrus. Here we present a comparative study of two citrus species, Citrus aurantium, which is resistant to Tetranychus urticae, and Citrus reshni, which is highly susceptible to T. urticae. Although both mycorrhizal species are protected in locally infested leaves, they show very distinct responses to MIR.

RESULTS

Previous studies have indicated that C. aurantium is insensitive to MIR in systemic tissues and MIR‐triggered antixenosis. Conversely, C. reshni is highly responsive to MIR which triggers local, systemic and indirect defense, and antixenosis against the pest. Transcriptional, hormonal and inhibition assays in C. reshni indicated the regulation of jasmonic acid (JA)‐ and abscisic acid‐dependent responses in MIR. The phytohormone jasmonic acid isoleucine (JA‐Ile) and the JA biosynthesis gene LOX2 are primed at early timepoints. Evidence indicates a metabolic flux from phenylpropanoids to specific flavones that are primed at 24 h post infestation (hpi). MIR also triggers the priming of naringenin in mycorrhizal C. reshni, which shows a strong correlation with several flavones and JA‐Ile that over‐accumulate in mycorrhizal plants. Treatment with an inhibitor of phenylpropanoid biosynthesis C4H enzyme impaired resistance and reduced the symbiosis, demonstrating that phenylpropanoids and derivatives mediate MIR in C. reshni.

CONCLUSION

MIR's effectiveness is inversely correlated to basal immunity in different citrus species, and provides multifaceted protection against T. urticae in susceptible C. reshni, activating rapid local and systemic defenses that are mainly regulated by the accumulation of specific flavones and priming of JA‐dependent responses. © 2024 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Deep‐Ultraviolet Luminescence Properties of AlN
Authors: Ishii Ryota , Yoshikawa Akira , Funato Mitsuru , Kawakami Yoichi
Published: March 2024

High‐resolution, low‐excitation photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy is performed for unintentionally doped, silicon‐doped, and magnesium‐doped homoepitaxial aluminum nitride (AlN) films, using a wavelength‐tunable high‐repetition‐rate laser. The wavelength‐tunable laser is used to distinguish between the luminescence and scattering signals from AlN. Providing the high‐resolution, low‐excitation PL spectra, the current understanding of the deep‐ultraviolet luminescence properties of AlN is reviewed and potential assignments for the unknown luminescence lines and bands are discussed. Although previous studies have led to a consensus on the origins of some emission peaks and bands such as the neutral silicon donor‐bound exciton transition and free exciton transitions involving longitudinal optical phonons, it is shown that many of the emission peaks are still unidentified. The origins of all the emission peaks should be elucidated to enable control of the electronic and optoelectronic properties of AlN.
Collagen Tubular Airway‐on‐Chip for Extended Epithelial Culture and Investigation of Ventilation Dynamics
Authors: Gao Wuyang , Kanagarajah Kayshani R. , Graham Emma , Soon Kayla , Veres Teodor , Moraes Theo J. , Bear Christine E. , Veldhuizen Ruud A. , Wong Amy P. , Günther Axel
Published: March 2024

The lower respiratory tract is a hierarchical network of compliant tubular structures that are made from extracellular matrix proteins with a wall lined by an epithelium. While microfluidic airway‐on‐a‐chip models incorporate the effects of shear and stretch on the epithelium, week‐long air‐liquid‐interface culture at physiological shear stresses, the circular cross‐section, and compliance of native airway walls have yet to be recapitulated. To overcome these limitations, a collagen tube‐based airway model is presented. The lumen is lined with a confluent epithelium during two‐week continuous perfusion with warm, humid air while presenting culture medium from the outside and compensating for evaporation. The model recapitulates human small airways in extracellular matrix composition and mechanical microenvironment, allowing for the first time dynamic studies of elastocapillary phenomena associated with regular breathing and mechanical ventilation, as well as their impacts on the epithelium. A case study reveales increasing damage to the epithelium during repetitive collapse and reopening cycles as opposed to overdistension, suggesting expiratory flow resistance to reduce atelectasis. The model is expected to promote systematic comparisons between different clinically used ventilation strategies and, more broadly, to enhance human organ‐on‐a‐chip platforms for a variety of tubular tissues.
Fabrication of Single‐Crystal Violet Phosphorus Flakes For Ultrasensitive Photodetection
Authors: Da Yumin , Zhou Yongheng , Zhang Shuai , Li Yang , Jiang Tongtong , Zhu Wenting , Chu Paul K. , Yu Xue‐Feng , Chen Xiaolong , Wang Jiahong
Published: March 2024

Violet phosphorus (VP) has attracted a lot of attention for its unique physicochemical properties and emerging potential in photoelectronic applications. Although VP has a van der Waals (vdW) structure similar to that of other 2D semiconductors, direct synthesis of VP on a substrate is still challenging. Moreover, optoelectronic devices composed of transfer‐free VP flakes have not been demonstrated. Herein, a bismuth‐assisted vapor phase transport technique is designed to grow uniform single‐crystal VP flakes on the SiO2/Si substrate directly. The size of the crystalline VP flakes is an order of magnitude larger than that of previous liquid‐exfoliated samples. The photodetector fabricated with the VP flakes shows a high responsivity of 12.5 A W−1 and response/recovery time of 3.82/3.03 ms upon exposure to 532 nm light. Furthermore, the photodetector shows a small dark current (<1 pA) that is beneficial to high‐sensitivity photodetection. As a result, the detectivity is 1.38 × 1013 Jones that is comparable with that of the vdW p–n heterojunction detector. The results reveal the great potential of VP in optoelectronic devices as well as the CVT technique for the growth of single‐crystal semiconductor thin films.
Ru Regulated Electronic Structure of PdxCuy Nanosheets for Efficient Hydrogen Evolution Reaction in Wide pH Range
Authors: Wang Jigang , Zhang Guangyang , Liu Huan , Wang Likai , Li Zhongfang
Published: March 2024

The development of highly effective catalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in a wide pH range is crucial for the sustainable utilization of green energy utilization, while the slow kinetic reaction rate severely hinders the progress of HER. Herein, the reaction kinetic issue is solved by adjusting the electronic structure of the Ru/PdxCuy catalysts. The champion catalyst displays a remarkable performance for HER with the ultralow overpotential (27, 28, and 97 mV) in 1.0 m KOH, 0.5 m H2SO4, and 1.0 m PBS at 10 mA cm−2 and high the mass activity (3036 A g−1), respectively, superior to those of commercial Pt/C benchmarks and most of reported electrocatalysts, mainly due to its low reaction activation energy. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations indicate that Ru doping contributes an electron‐deficient 3d band, which promotes water adsorption. Additionally, this also leads to an upward shift of the d‐band center of Pd and a downward shift of the d‐band center of Cu, further optimizing the adsorption/dissociation of H2O and H*. Results from this work may provide an insight into the design and synthesis of high‐performance pH‐universal HER electrocatalysts.
NIR‐Triggered Multifunctional NO Nanoplatform for Conquering Thermal Resistance in Biofilms
Authors: Zhou Bingshuai , Dong Biao , Hu Songtao , Liu Wei , Sun Liheng , Xu Lin , Bai Xue , Wang Lin , Qi Manlin , Song Hongwei
Published: March 2024

Photothermal treatment (PTT) has emerged as a promising avenue for biofilm elimination, yet its potential drawbacks, such as local hyperpyrexia and bacterial heat resistance, have posed challenges. To address these concerns, an innovative nanoplatform (Au@mSiO2‐arg/ICG) is devised that integrates phototherapeutic and gas therapeutic functionalities. This multifaceted nanoplatform is composed of mesoporous silica‐coated Au nanorods (Au@mSiO2), supplemented with l‐arginine (l‐arg) and indocyanine green (ICG), and is engineered for mild temperature PTT aimed at biofilm eradication. Au@mSiO2‐arg/ICG nanoparticles (NPs) show excellent antibacterial effects through the generation of nitric oxide (NO) gas, heat, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) under 808 nm light irradiation. The ROS generated by ICG initiates a cascade reaction with l‐arg, ultimately yielding NO gas molecules. This localized release of NO not only effectively curbs the expression of heat shock proteins 70 mitigating bacterial thermoresistance, but also reduces extracellular polymeric substance allowing better penetration of the therapeutic agents. Furthermore, this nanoplatform achieves an outstanding biofilm elimination rate of over 99% in an abscess model under 808 nm light irradiation (0.8 W·cm−2), thereby establishing its potential as a dependable strategy for NO‐enhanced mild PTT and antibacterial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) in clinical settings.
Strain Engineering: Perfecting Freestanding Perovskite Oxide Fabrication
Authors: Yun Shinhee , le Cozannet Thomas Emil , Christoffersen Christina Høgfeldt , Brand Eric , Jespersen Thomas Sand , Pryds Nini
Published: March 2024

Freestanding oxide membranes provide a promising path for integrating devices on silicon and flexible platforms. To ensure optimal device performance, these membranes must be of high crystal quality, stoichiometric, and their morphology free from cracks and wrinkles. Often, layers transferred on substrates show wrinkles and cracks due to a lattice relaxation from an epitaxial mismatch. Doping the sacrificial layer of Sr3Al2O6 (SAO) with Ca or Ba offers a promising solution to overcome these challenges, yet its effects remain critically underexplored. A systematic study of doping Ca into SAO is presented, optimizing the pulsed laser deposition (PLD) conditions, and adjusting the supporting polymer type and thickness, demonstrating that strain engineering can effectively eliminate these imperfections. Using SrTiO3 as a case study, it is found that Ca1.5Sr1.5Al2O6 offers a near‐perfect match and a defect‐free freestanding membrane. This approach, using the water‐soluble Bax/CaxSr3‐xAl2O6 family, paves the way for producing high‐quality, large freestanding membranes for functional oxide devices.
Photocatalytic Optical Hollow Fiber with Enhanced Visible‐light‐driven CO2 Reduction
Authors: Chen Jie , Liu Yang , Xie Quanhua , He Yuanyuan , Zhong Dengjie , Chang Haixing , Ho Shih‐Hsin , Zhong Nianbing
Published: March 2024

A visible‐light‐driven CO2 reduction optical fiber is fabricated using graphene‐like nitrogen‐doped composites and hollow quartz optical fibers to achieve enhanced activity, selectivity, and light utilization for CO2 photoreduction. The composites are synthesized from a lead‐based metal–organic framework (TMOF‐10‐NH2) and g‐C3N4 nanosheet (CNNS) via electrostatic self‐assembly. The TMOF‐10‐NH2/g‐C3N4 (TMOF/CNNS) photocatalyst with an S‐type heterojunction is coated on optical fiber. The TMOF/CNNS coating, which has a bandgap energy of 2.15 eV, has good photoinduced capability at the coating interfaces, high photogenerated electron–hole pair yield, and high charge transfer rate. The conduction band potential of the TMOF/CNNS coating is more negative than that for CO2 reduction. Moreover, TMOF facilitates the CO desorption on its surface, thereby improving the selectivity for CO production. High CO2 photoreduction and selectivity for CO production is demonstrated by the TMOF/CNNS‐coated optical fiber with the cladding/core diameter of 2000/1000 µm, 10 wt% TMOF in CNNS, coating thickness of 25 µm, initial CO2 concentration of 90 vol%, and relative humidity of 88% RH under the excitation wavelength of 380–780 nm. Overall, the photocatalytic hollow optical fiber developed herein provides an effective and efficient approach for the enhancement of light utilization efficiency of photocatalysts and selective CO2 reduction.
Interface and Morphology Engineered Amorphous Si for Ultrafast Electrochemical Lithium Storage
Authors: Sonia Farjana J. , Haider Golam , Ghosh Subrata , Müller Martin , Volochanskyi Oleksandr , Bouša Milan , Plšek Jan , Kamruddin Mohammed , Fejfar Antonín , Kalbáč Martin , Frank Otakar
Published: March 2024

Ultrafast high‐capacity lithium‐ion batteries are extremely desirable for portable electronic devices, where Si is the most promising alternative to the conventional graphite anode due to its very high theoretical capacity. However, the low electronic conductivity and poor Li‐diffusivity limit its rate capability. Moreover, high volume expansion/contraction upon Li‐intake/uptake causes severe pulverization of the electrode, leading to drastic capacity fading. Here, interface and morphology‐engineered amorphous Si matrix is being reported utilizing a few‐layer vertical graphene (VG) buffer layer to retain high capacity at both slow and fast (dis)charging rates. The flexible mechanical support of VG due to the van‐der‐Waals interaction between the graphene layers, the weak adhesion between Si and graphene, and the highly porous geometry mitigated stress, while the three‐dimensional mass loading enhanced specific capacity. Additionally, the high electronic conductivity of VG boosted rate‐capability, resulting in a reversible gravimetric capacity of ≈1270 mAh g−1 (areal capacity of ≈37 µAh cm−2) even after 100 cycles at an ultrafast cycling rate of 20C, which provides a fascinating way for conductivity and stress management to obtain high‐performance storage devices.