bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exogenous Neonatal Erythropoietin Mitigates Brain Damage After a Combination of Prenatal Hypoxic-Ischemia and Lipopolysaccharide Inflammation in Rats
Authors: Robinson Shenandoah , Li Qing
Published: March 2008

Introduction

Many infants born very preterm who suffer brain damage most likely experienced a combined insult from intrauterine infection and placental insufficiency. Damage is thought to be synergistic rather than additive but the mechanisms of combined injury remain elusive. A combination of lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation and hypoxia-ischemia has been used in rats to model the dual insult that occurs in human infants prenatally. Erythropoietin, a pleiotrophic cytokine that is essential for central nervous system development, ameliorates brain injury after isolated hypoxic-ischemic or inflammatory insults through different intracellular signaling pathways. We hypothesized that exogenous neonatal EPO administration would lessen the damage of a combined prenatal insult in rats.

Methods

On embryonic Day 18 fetal rats experienced 60 minutes of transient uterine artery occlusion with or without intracervical LPS administration with sham controls receiving surgery but no occlusion and saline for LPS. Survival was recorded and histological biochemical and functional assays were performed. Means were compared with ANOVA with Tukey HSD post hoc analysis.

Results

After a combined insult of HI and 0.15-mg/kg LPS on E18 the survival of pups by postnatal Day 1 (P1) decreased from 77% with HI alone to 22% for LPS plus HI. When exogenous systemic EPO was administered P1–P3 survival to P9 improved markedly from 40% (2 of 5) for saline-treated insult pups to 100% (6 of 6) for EPO-treated. Initial histological analyses show EPO decreases the number of brain activated caspase 3 and activated microglia by P9. Additional analyses will be presented.

Conclusion

As at least 60% of placentas from infants born pre-term show evidence of chorioamnionitis, assessment of the impact of exogenous EPO on a model of a combination injury is essential prior to proceeding with a clinical trial. Initial results indicate neonatal exogenous EPO mitigates damage from the combined insult.
Ventriculogallbladder shunts in pediatric patients
Authors: Aldana Philipp R. , James Hector E. , Postlethwait Richard A.
Published: March 2008

Object

The authors report a clinical protocol for the application of ventriculogallbladder (VGB) shunts in children who may be unable to maintain or receive ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunts.

Methods

Eighteen patients underwent placement of VGB shunts as an alternative to VP shunt therapy for the following reasons: malfunction of the VP shunt due to suspected failure of the peritoneum to absorb cerebrospinal fluid (17 cases) and multiple intraabdominal general surgical procedures (1 case). The patients ranged in age from 4 months to 17 years (mean 6.5 ± 6.1 years [standard deviation {SD}]). All patients underwent preoperative imaging of the gall-bladder either by ultrasonography or computed tomography scanning. A team consisting of a pediatric neurological surgeon and a pediatric general surgeon performed all operative procedures. The procedures were conducted by open laparotomy to precisely place the appropriate length of distal catheter and to anchor it to the gallbladder wall.

Results

There were 2 early shunt malfunctions, both obstructions due to “sludge” (1 in the biliary duct and 1 in the common bile duct). A late-onset (5-year) malfunction occurred secondary to gallbladder stones. In all 3 cases of malfunction, the devices were successfully converted to VP shunts. In 1 patient a conversion to a VP shunt was chosen following a general surgical intervention. There were 2 shunt infections (Staphylococcus epidermidis and Haemophilus influenzae). These were successfully treated. Two patients underwent conversion to a VGB shunt on 2 occasions. Thirteen patients had functional VGB shunts at the time of their last follow-up assessment. The follow-up for these 13 patients ranged from 1 to 8 years (mean 2.1 ± 2.0 years [SD]).

Conclusions

Ventriculogallbladder shunts may be considered for the treatment of hydrocephalus in children when the peritoneal cavity cannot be used as a distal terminus.
Laminar screw fixation of the axis
Authors: Sciubba Daniel M. , Noggle Joseph C. , Vellimana Ananth K. , Conway James E. , Kretzer Ryan M. , Long Donlin M. , Garonzik Ira M.
Published: March 2008

Object

Laminar fixation of the axis with crossing bilateral screws has been shown to provide rigid fixation with a theoretically decreased risk of vertebral artery damage compared with C1–2 transarticular screw fixation and C-2 pedicle screw fixation. Some studies, however, have shown restricted rigidity of such screws compared with C-2 pedicle screws, and others note that anatomical variability exists within the posterior elements of the axis that may have an impact on successful placement. To elucidate the clinical impact of such screws, the authors report their experience in placing C-2 laminar screws in adult patients over a 2-year period, with emphasis on clinical outcome and technical placement.

Methods

Sixteen adult patients with cervical instability underwent posterior cervical and cervicothoracic fusion procedures at our institution with constructs involving C-2 laminar screws. Eleven patients were men and 5 were women, and they ranged in age from 28 to 84 years (mean 57 years). The reasons for fusion were degenerative disease (9 patients) and treatment of trauma (7 patients). In 14 patients (87.5%) standard translaminar screws were placed, and in 2 (12.5%) an ipsilateral trajectory was used. All patients underwent preoperative radiological evaluation of the cervical spine, including computed tomography scanning with multiplanar reconstruction to assess the posterior anatomy of C-2. Anatomical restrictions for placement of standard translaminar screws included a deeply furrowed spinous process and/or an underdeveloped midline posterior ring of the axis. In these cases, screws were placed into the corresponding lamina from the ipsilateral side, allowing bilateral screws to be oriented in a more parallel, as opposed to perpendicular, plane. All patients were followed for > 2 years to record rates of fusion, instrumentation failure, and other complications.

Results

Thirty-two screws were placed without neurological or vascular complications. The mean follow-up duration was 27.3 months. Complications included 2 revisions, one for pseudarthrosis and the other for screw pullout, and 3 postoperative infections.

Conclusions

Placement of laminar screws into the axis from the standard crossing approach or via an ipsilateral trajectory may allow a safe, effective, and durable means of including the axis in posterior cervical and cervicothoracic fusion procedures.
Histopathological basis for neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome
Authors: Tubbs R. Shane , Louis Robert G. , Wartmann Christopher T. , Lott Robert , Chua Gina D. , Kelly David , Palmer Cheryl Ann , Shoja Mohamadali M. , Loukas Marios , Oakes W. Jerry
Published: March 2008

Object

To the best of the authors' knowledge, no report exists that has demonstrated the histopathological changes of neural elements within the brachial plexus as a result of cervical rib compression.

Methods

Four hundred seventy-five consecutive human cadavers were evaluated for the presence of cervical ribs. From this cohort, 2 male specimens (0.42%) were identified that harbored cervical ribs. One of the cadavers was found to have bilateral cervical ribs and the other a single right cervical rib. Following gross observations of the brachial plexus and, specifically, the lower trunk and its relationship to these anomalous ribs, the lower trunks were submitted for immunohistochemical analysis. Specimens were compared with two age-matched controls that did not have cervical ribs.

Results

The compressed plexus trunks were largely unremarkable proximal to the areas of compression by cervical ribs, where they demonstrated epi- and perineurial fibrosis, vascular hyalinization, mucinous degeneration, and frequent intraneural collagenous nodules. These histological findings were not seen in the nerve specimens in control cadavers. The epineurium was thickened with intersecting fibrous bands, and the perineurium appeared fibrotic. Many of the blood vessels were hyalinized. The nerve fascicles contained frequent intraneural collagenous nodules in this area, and focal mucinous degeneration was identified.

Conclusions

Cervical ribs found incidentally may cause histological changes in the lower trunk of the brachial plexus. The clinician may wish to observe or perform further evaluation in such patients.
Symptomatic high-flow arteriovenous fistula after a C-2 fracture
Authors: Heuer Gregory G. , Gabel Brandon C. , Bhowmick Deb A. , Stiefel Michael F. , Hurst Robert W. , Schuster James M.
Published: March 2008

✓Spinal arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) are relatively uncommon lesions that are often diagnosed in a delayed fashion. The authors present a cause of a symptomatic high-flow AVF that developed in a patient after traumatic injury to the upper cervical spine. The patient presented to the trauma bay after a motor vehicle collision, and was found to have a C-2 fracture involving the transverse foramen. Although the patient was neurologically intact on presentation, 6 hours after admission weakness developed on his left side. Imaging studies demonstrated complete transection of the distal cervical aspect of the right vertebral artery (VA) at the base of C-2, with antegrade and retrograde flow into a direct AVF, resulting in early filling of the right internal jugular vein and other external draining veins. The patient was treated endovascularly with coil occlusion of the VA both proximal and distal to the transection. The patient's weakness improved over the next 7 days. At the 12-week follow-up examination, the patient's fractures had healed and he was neurologically intact.
Acute deterioration in occult Chiari malformation following missile spinal trauma
Authors: Shahlaie Kiarash , Hartman Jonathan , Utter Garth H. , Schrot Rudolph J.
Published: March 2008

✓Patients with Chiari malformation (CM) Type I typically experience chronic, slowly progressive symptoms. Rarely, however, do they suffer acute neurological deterioration following an iatrogenic decrease in caudal cerebrospinal fluid pressure due to, for example, a lumbar puncture. To our knowledge, acute neurological deterioration following missile spinal injury in CM has not been previously described.

The authors report on a 16-year-old girl who was shot in the abdomen and lumbar spine. Although neurologically intact on initial workup, she developed precipitous quadriplegia and apnea in a delayed fashion. Tonsillar herniation with medullary compression and cerebellar infarction was diagnosed on magnetic resonance imaging. Suboccipital decompression resulted in significant neurological improvement. Well-formed tonsillar ectopia diagnosed at surgery suggested a preexisting CM.

The authors conclude that missile spinal trauma can precipitate medullary compression and acute neurological decline, especially in patients with preexisting tonsillar ectopia. Immediate operative decompression to relieve impaction at the cervicomedullary junction can result in significant neurological recovery.
Chronic myelopathy due to a giant spinal arachnoid cyst: a complication of the intrathecal injection of phenol
Authors: Rincon Fred , Mocco J. , Komotar Ricardo J. , Khandji Alexander G. , McCormick Paul C. , Olarte Marcelo
Published: March 2008

✓Acquired intradural arachnoid cystic lesions of the spine have been associated with trauma, hemorrhage, parasitic infections, and other insults that cause inflammation and subarachnoid adhesions. The authors describe the case of a previously healthy 36-year-old woman who presented with a chronic myelopathy due to the progressive development of a giant spinal arachnoid cyst that resulted after the intrathecal injection of phenol for the management of chronic upper extremity pain. Neurological examination, spinal computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging were used for diagnostic and follow-up purposes. Even after the initial excision of the cyst, the patient remained symptomatic with minimal functional recovery.
Sciatica of nondisc origin: hydatid cyst of the sciatic nerve
Authors: Kalacı Aydıner , Sevinç Teoman Toni , Yanat Ahmet Nedim
Published: March 2008

✓The authors report on an 81-year-old woman with a primary hydatid cyst located in the posteromedial aspect of the thigh. She presented with sciatica, and the cyst was also associated with neurological dysfunction because of its intra-neural location. Diagnosis of a cyst in a nerve body is very rare, and the one reported here might be the first such case. So far, in all the previously reported cases in which there were also neurological findings, the cysts in the vertebral column were compressing the spinal cord or there was an intrapelvic mass compressing the sciatic nerve. Hydatid cyst should be considered in the differential diagnosis of sciatica, especially when treating patients who live in or have emigrated from areas of the world whereEchinococcus granulosusis prevalent.
Genetic effects on the biomass partitioning and growth ofPisumandLycopersicon
Authors: Niklas Karl J. , DeMason Darleen A. , Cobb Edward D.
Published: March 2008

We examined a series of eight pea genotypes differing in three naturally occurring allelic mutations, i.e.,af(afila),st(stipules reduced), andtl(tendril‐less) and three species, five cultivars, and one interspecific hybrid of tomato differing inSP(SELF‐PRUNING) allele composition to determine whether different phenotypes ontogenetically express different biomass partitioning patterns compared to the isometric partitioning pattern and an interspecific 3/4 scaling “rule” governing annual growth with respect to body mass. The slopes and “elevations” (i.e., α and log β, respectively) of log‐log linear regression curves of bivariate plots of leaf, stem, and root dry mass and of annual growth vs. total body mass were used to assess pattern homogeneity. The annual growth of all pea and tomato phenotypes complied with the 3/4 growth rule. The biomass partitioning patterns of all tomato phenotypes were statistically indistinguishable from the isometric pattern as were those of the pea wild type and three single‐mutant genotypes. However, significant departures from the isometric (and pea wild type) biomass allocation pattern were observed for three genotypes, all of which were homozygous for theafallele. These results open the door to explore the heritability and genetics underlying the allometry of biomass partitioning patterns and growth.
Influence of nutrient availability on the mechanisms of tolerance to herbivory in an annual grass, Avena barbata (Poaceae)
Authors: Suwa Tomomi , Maherali Hafiz
Published: March 2008

Tolerance, or the capacity of a genotype to survive and reproduce following herbivore damage, varies widely across the plant kingdom. One proximate cause of this variation is resource availability, which can influence tolerance through mechanisms such as growth rate and photosynthesis. We examined the effect of high and low soil nutrient levels on the relationship between tolerance and two of its underlying mechanisms, biomass regrowth and photosynthetic upregulation, among genotypes of the Mediterranean annual grass Avena barbata. Although defoliated plants did not reach the same biomass as controls, biomass regrowth was higher at high nutrients. However, increased seed abortion at high nutrients caused tolerance to be the same in both nutrient treatments. Increased seed abortion also uncoupled biomass regrowth from tolerance at high nutrients. We found no evidence for photosynthetic upregulation in defoliated compared to control plants in either nutrient treatment. However, tolerance was positively correlated with predefoliation photosynthetic efficiency at high nutrients. Thus, constitutive photosynthetic efficiency may be a better predictor of tolerance than photosynthetic responses following herbivory in A. barbata. More generally, our results highlight the possibility that the mechanisms of tolerance can differ across resource environments even if tolerance is the same.
Stage‐dependent border cell and carbon flow from roots to rhizosphere
Authors: Odell Ryan E. , Dumlao Matthew R. , Samar Danial , Silk Wendy K.
Published: March 2008

Rising CO2 levels in the atmosphere have drawn attention to the important role of soil in sequestering carbon. This project goal was to quantify soil carbon deposition associated with border cell release and exudation from root growth zones. Carbon was measured with a Carlo Erba C/N analyzer in soil from the rhizosphere of mature grasses and, in separate experiments, in soil collected around root growth zones. Root border cells in “rhizosphere soil” (silica sand) were counted using a compound microscope after soil sonication and extraction with surfactant. For sand‐grown Bromus carinatus, Zea mays, and Cucumis sativus, young seedlings (with roots shorter than 2 cm) released thousands of border cells, while older root tips released only hundreds. For a variety of native annual and perennial grasses and invasive annual grasses (Nassella pulchra, B. carinatus, B. diandrus, B. hordeaceus, Vulpia microstachys, Aegilops triuncialis, Lolium multiflorum, Zea mays), the rhizosphere of mature root systems contained between 18 and 32 μg C g−1 sand more than that of the unplanted controls. Spatial analysis of the rhizosphere around the cucumber growth zone confirmed C enrichment there. The root tip provided C to the rhizosphere: 4.6 μg C in front of the growing tip, with the largest deposition, 20.4 μg C, to the rhizosphere surrounding the apical 3 mm (root cap/meristem). These numbers from laboratory studies represent the maximum C that might be released during flooding in soils. Scaling up from the organ scale to the field requires a growth analysis to quantify root tip distributions in space and time.
Scent variation and hybridization cause the displacement of a sexually deceptive orchid species
Authors: Stökl Johannes , Schlüter Philipp M. , Stuessy Tod F. , Paulus Hannes F. , Assum Günter , Ayasse Manfred
Published: March 2008

In the sexually deceptive orchid genus Ophrys, reproductive isolation is based on the specific attraction of males of a single pollinator species, mostly bees, by mimicking the female sex pheromone of this species. Changes in the floral odor can lead to hybridization, introgression, and possibly speciation. We investigated hybrid swarms of O. lupercalis and O. iricolor on Sardinia using behavioral, electrophysiological (GC‐EAD), chemical, morphological, and genetic methods (AFLPs). In behavioral experiments, approximately 20% of the flowers from both species and hybrids were attractive to the “wrong” or both pollinator species. Analysis of the EAD‐active hydrocarbons in the floral odor showed an overlap in the two species, whereby hybrid individuals could not be separated from O. iricolor. The genetic analysis confirmed the hybridization of the species. Plants of O. iricolor and hybrids are genetically indistinguishable and form an O. iricolor × lupercalis hybrid population. Remaining plants of O. lupercalis will possibly be displaced by the O. iricolor × lupercalis hybrid population in the future. Our study showed that in deceptive orchids, variation in the pollinator attracting cues, in this case, scent, can be the first step for speciation and at the same time cause the displacement of a species.
Disentangling the causes of intrainflorescence variation in floral traits and fecundity in the hermaphrodite Silene acutifolia
Authors: Buide Mª Luisa
Published: March 2008

Inflorescence architecture directly determines variations in floral traits and fecundity. Disentangling these patterns of variation is crucial to understanding intraplant variation, which sometimes is directly attributed to competition for resources with developing fruits. The dichasial cymes of Silene acutifolia were experimentally manipulated in the field to analyze whether the declines in petal size, ovule number, fruit set, and seed/ovule ratio along the inflorescence are constrained by ontogenetic development or are phenotypically plastic in response to environmental changes. At the same time, the level of pollen deficit was measured on different positions of the dichasia. The results showed clearly that all measured variables were more influenced by architecture than by resource competition with developing fruits; the removal of central (basal) and primary lateral flowers in the dichasia did not increase either the measures of floral characters or fecundity. On the other hand, although most of the decline in fecundity was due to architectural effects, there was also a pollen limitation, dependent to some degree on inflorescence position, which was probably due to lower pollen availability in the population when secondary flowers are in the female phase.
Bayesian reconstruction of ancestral expression of the LEA gene families reveals propagule‐derived desiccation tolerance in resurrection plants
Authors: Fisher Kirsten M.
Published: March 2008

Desiccation tolerance is a complex trait that is broadly but infrequently present throughout the evolutionary tree of life. Desiccation tolerance has played a significant role in land plant evolution, in both the vegetative and reproductive life history stages. In the land plants, the late embryogenesis abundant (LEA) gene families are involved in both abiotic stress tolerance and the development of reproductive propagules. They are also a major component of vegetative desiccation tolerance. Phylogenies were estimated for four families of LEA genes from Arabidopsis, Physcomitrella, and the desiccation tolerant plants Tortula ruralis, Craterostigma plantagineum, and Xerophyta humilis. Microarray expression data from Arabidopsis and a subset of the Physcomitrella LEAs were used to estimate ancestral expression patterns in the LEA families and to evaluate alternative hypotheses for the origins of vegetative desiccation tolerance in the flowering plants. The results contradict the idea that vegetative desiccation tolerance in the resurrection angiosperms Craterostigma and Xerophyta arose through the co‐option of genes exclusively related to stress tolerance, and support the propagule‐derived origin of vegetative desiccation tolerance in the resurrection plants.
Development and Validation of a Measure to Assess Patient Experiences With Video Care Encounters
Authors: Slightam Cindie , SooHoo Sonya , Greene Liberty , Zulman Donna M. , Kimerling Rachel
Published: April 2024

Importance

As video-based care expands in many clinical settings, assessing patient experiences with this care modality will help optimize health care quality, safety, and communication.

Objective

To develop and assess the psychometric properties of the video visit user experience (VVUE) measure, a patient-reported measure of experiences with video-based technology.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this survey study, veterans completed a web-based, mail, or telephone survey about their use of Veterans Healthcare Administration (VHA) virtual care between September 2021 and January 2022. The survey was completed by patients who reported having a VHA video visit on their own device or a VHA-issued device and linked to VHA utilization data for the 6 months following the survey. Data analysis was performed from March 2022 to February 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The survey included 19 items about experiences with video visits that were rated using a 4-point Likert-type scale (strongly disagree to strongly agree). First, an exploratory factor analysis was conducted to determine the factor structure and parsimonious set of items, using the McDonald Omega test to assess internal consistency reliability. Then, a confirmatory factor analysis was conducted to test structural validity, and bivariate correlations between VVUE and VHA health care engagement were calculated to test concurrent validity. Finally, predictive validity was assessed using logistic regression to determine whether VVUE was associated with future VHA video visit use.

Results

Among 1887 respondents included in the analyses, 83.2% (95% CI, 81.5%-84.8%) were male, 41.0% (95% CI, 38.8%-43.1%) were aged 65 years or older, and the majority had multiple chronic medical and mental health conditions. The exploratory factor analysis identified a 10-item single-factor VVUE measure (including questions about satisfaction, user-centeredness, technical quality, usefulness, and appropriateness), explaining 96% of the total variance, with acceptable internal consistency reliability (ω = 0.95). The confirmatory factor analysis results confirmed a single-factor solution (standardized root mean squared residual = 0.04). VVUE was positively associated with VHA health care engagement (ρ = 0.47; P < .001). Predictive validity models demonstrated that higher VVUE measure scores were associated with future use of video visits, where each 1-point increase on VVUE was associated with greater likelihood of having a video visit in subsequent 6 months (adjusted odds ratio, 1.04; 95% CI, 1.02-1.06).

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings of this study of veterans using video visits suggest that a brief measure is valid to capture veterans’ experiences receiving VHA virtual care.
Race and Pulse Oximetry in Infants With Single Ventricles Undergoing Stage 1 Palliation
Authors: Mills Marcos , Gleason Michelle , Lin Michael , Braykov Nikolay , Smith Sherry , Fundora Michael , Aljiffry Alaa
Published: April 2024

This cross-sectional study investigates perioperative oxygen saturation differences in Black and White infants with single ventricles undergoing stage 1 palliation.
Precision Interface Engineering of CuNi Alloys by Powder ALD Toward Better Thermoelectric Performance
Authors: He Shiyang , Bahrami Amin , Jung Chanwon , Zhang Xiang , He Ran , Ren Zhifeng , Zhang Siyuan , Nielsch Kornelius
Published: April 2024

The main bottleneck in obtaining high‐performance thermoelectric (TE) materials is identified as how to decouple the strong interrelationship between electrical and thermal parameters. Herein, a precise interface modification approach based on the powder atomic layer deposition (ALD) technology is presented to enhance the performance of CuNi alloys. ZnO and Al2O3 layers as well as their combinations are deposited on the surface of powders, typically in 10–100 ALD cycles, and their effects on the TE performance of bulks is thoroughly investigated. The enhancement of the Seebeck coefficient, caused by the energy filtering effect, compensates for the electrical conductivity deterioration due to the low electrical conductivity of oxide layers. Furthermore, the oxide layers may significantly increase the phonon scattering. Therefore, to reduce the resistivity of coating layer, a multilayer structure is deposited on the surface of powders by inserting Al2O3 into ZnO. The accurate microstructure characterization shows that the Al atoms diffused into ZnO and realized the doping effect after pressing. Al diffusion has the potential to increase the electrical conductivity and complexity of coating layers. Compared to pure CuNi, zT increases by 128% due to the decrease in resistivity and stronger phonon scattering in phase boundaries.
Ion‐Specific Hydrogel Microcarriers with Biomimetic Niches for Bioartifical Liver System
Authors: Lin Xiang , Li Jinbo , Wang Jinglin , Filppula Anne M. , Zhang Hongbo , Zhao Yuanjin
Published: April 2024

Bioartificial livers have showcased significant value in the treatment of acute liver failure (ALF). Current efforts are directed toward overcoming challenges in the development of microcarriers, with a specific emphasis on integrating higher‐density liver cells to enhance detoxification capabilities. Here, inspired by the radial filtration model in hepatic lobules, ion‐specific silk fibroin microcarriers are proposed with biomimetic niches for cultivating functional liver cells at high density. These biomimetic microcarriers are generated by capillary microfluidic device with controllable adjustments of ion type or concentration within the aqueous phase. When cultivating human induced pluripotent stem cell ‐differentiated mature liver cells on these recrystallized microcarriers, notably enhanced cell proliferation activity, as well as increased metabolic and secretory functionality is observed. Based on these features, the microcarrier‐integrated bioreactor can effectively reduce hepatic transaminase levels and significantly improve urea, albumin production, and survival rate in rabbit ALF models is demonstrated. Thus, it is believed that the biomimetic microcarriers and their derived bioreactor may hold potential for clinical applications in managing ALF and other liver diseases.
Dynamic Interfacial Protection via Molecularly Tailored Copolymer for Durable Artificial Solid Electrolyte Interphase in Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Luo Jing , Huang Qinzhui , Shi Dehuan , Qiu Yanbin , Zheng Xinyu , Yang Sisheng , Li Borong , Weng Jianqiang , Wu Mingmao , Liu Zheyuan , Yu Yan , Yang Chengkai
Published: April 2024

The serious dendrite formation and safety hazards associated with side reactions hinder the practical application of lithium metal batteries. A molecular customization strategy based on both physical and chemical properties is reported. A copolymer of acrylamide and hexafluorobutyl acrylate molecules is used as an artificial solid electrolyte interface(ASEI) for lithium metal to achieve dynamic interface protection during cycling. The amide group serves as the rigid unit, while the hexafluorobutyl group serves as the flexible unit, and imparts excellent mechanical properties to the copolymer. Synergistically abundant C─F bonds exhibit excellent water and oxygen resistance and have good electrolyte affinity. The ester and amide groups serve as amphiphilic sites for Li+ and PF6−, regulating the ion flux at the interface and achieving dendrite‐free lithium deposition. During cycling, the organic–inorganic composite SEI dynamically evolves to safeguard the lithium metal, preventing undue electrolyte consumption. The copolymer achieves stable cycling for 1500 and 950 h at 1 and 2 mA cm−2, respectively. It demonstrates excellent performance with LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 and LiFePO4 cathodes. This study introduces a new approach to designing polymers at the molecular level to optimize the physical properties/chemical activity of lithium metal interfaces.
Cobalt MOF‐Based Porous Carbonaceous Spheres for Multimodal Soft Actuator Exhibiting Intricate Biomimetic Motions
Authors: Taseer Ashhad Kamal , Oh Saewoong , Kim Ji‐Seok , Garai Mousumi , Yoo Hyunjoon , Nguyen Van Hiep , Yang Yang , Khan Mannan , Mahato Manmatha , Oh Il‐kwon
Published: April 2024

The advancement of active electrode materials is essential to meet the demand for multifaceted soft robotic interactions. In this study, a new type of porous carbonaceous sphere (PCS) for a multimodal soft actuator capable of both magnetoactive and electro‐ionic responses is reported. The PCS, derived from the simultaneous oxidative and reductive breakdown of specially designed cobalt‐based metal–organic frameworks (Co‐MOFs) with varying metal‐to‐ligand ratios, exhibits a high specific surface area of 529 m2 g−1 and a saturated magnetization of 142.7 Am2 kg−1. The size of the PCS can be controlled through the Ostwald ripening mechanism, while the porous structure can be regulated by adjusting the metal‐to‐ligand mol ratio. Its exceptional compatibility with poly(3,4‐ethylene‐dioxythiophene)‐poly(styrenesulfonate) enables the creation of uniform electrode, crucial for producing soft actuators that work in both magnetic and electrical fields. Operated at an ultralow voltage of 1 V, the PCS‐based actuator generates a blocking force of 47.5 mN and exhibits significant bending deflection even at an oscillation frequency of 10 Hz. Employing this simultaneous multimodal actuation ensures the dynamic and complex motions of a balancing bird robot and a dynamic eagle robot. This advancement marks a significant step toward the realization of more dynamic and versatile soft robotic systems.
MXene‐Enabled Pneumatic Multiscale Shape Morphing for Adaptive, Programmable and Multimodal Radar‐infrared Compatible Camouflage
Authors: Liang Leilei , Yang Xiuyue , Li Chen , Yu Ruoling , Zhang Baoshan , Yang Yi , Ji Guangbin
Published: April 2024

Achieving radar‐infrared compatible camouflage with dynamic adaptability has been a long‐sought goal, but faces significant challenges owing to the limited dispersion relations of conventional material systems operating in different wavelength ranges. Here, this work proposes the concept of pneumatic multiscale shape morphing and design a periodically arranged pneumatic unit consisting of MXene‐based morphable conductors and intake platforms. During gas actuation, the morphable conductor transforms centimeter‐scale 2D flat sheets into 3D balloon shapes to enhance microwave absorption behavior, and also reconfigures micrometer‐scale MXene wrinkles into smooth planes in combination with cavity‐induced low heat transfer to minimize infrared (IR) signatures. Through theory‐guided reverse engineering, the final pneumatic matrix shows remarkable frequency tunability (2.64–18.0 GHz), moderate IR emissivity regulation (0.14 at 7–16.5 µm), rapid responsiveness (≈30 ms), wide‐angle operation (>45°), and excellent environmental tolerance. Additionally, the multiplexed pneumatic matrix enables over 14 programmable coding sequences that independently alter thermal radiation without compromising radar stealth, and allows multimodal camouflage switching between three distinct compatible states. The approach may facilitate the evolution of camouflage techniques and electromagnetic functional materials toward multispectral, adaptability and intelligence.
Benchmarking the Intrinsic Activity of Transition Metal Oxides for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction with Advanced Nanoelectrodes
Authors: Gao Han , Xu Jianan , Zhang Xueqi , Zhou Min
Published: April 2024

The intrinsic activity assessment of transition metal oxides (TMOs) as key electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) has not been standardized due to uncertainties regarding their structure and composition, difficulties in accurately measuring their electrochemically active surface area (ECSA), and deficiencies in mass‐transfer (MT) rates in conventional measurements. To address these issues, we utilized an electrodeposition‐thermal annealing method to precisely synthesize single‐particle TMOs with well‐defined structure and composition. Concurrently, we engineered low roughness, spherical surfaces for individual particles, enabling precise measurement of their ECSA. Furthermore, by constructing a conductor‐core semiconductor‐shell structure, we evaluated the inherent OER activity of perovskite‐type semiconductor materials, broadening the scope beyond just conductive TMOs. Finally, using single‐particle nanoelectrode technique, we systematically measured individual TMO particles of various sizes for OER, overcoming MT limitations seen in conventional approaches. These improvements have led us to propose a precise and reliable approach to evaluating the intrinsic activity of TMOs, not only validating the accuracy of theoretical calculations but also revealing a strong correlation of OER activity on the melting point of TMOs. This discovery holds significant importance for future high‐throughput material research and applications, offering valuable insights in electrocatalysis.
A Light‐Triggered J‐Aggregation‐Regulated Therapy Conversion: from Photodynamic/Photothermal Therapy to Long‐Lasting Chemodynamic Therapy for Effective Tumor Ablation
Authors: Wei Kai , Wu Yanxin , Zheng Xian , Ouyang Li , Ma Guiping , Ji Chendong , Yin Meizhen
Published: April 2024

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have become an effective tool for tumor treatment. The combination of photodynamic therapy (PDT) and chemodynamic therapy (CDT) takes advantage of various ROS and enhances therapeutic effects. However, the activation of CDT usually occurs before PDT, which hinders the sustained maintenance of hydroxyl radicals (⋅OH) and reduces the treatment efficiency. Herein, we present a light‐triggered nano‐system based on molecular aggregation regulation for converting cancer therapy from PDT/photothermal therapy (PTT) to a long‐lasting CDT. The ordered J‐aggregation enhances the photodynamic properties of the cyanine moiety while simultaneously suppressing the chemodynamic capabilities of the copper‐porphyrin moiety. Upon light irradiation, Cu‐PCy JNPs demonstrate strong photodynamic and photothermal effects. Meanwhile, light triggers a rapid degradation of the cyanine backbone, leading to the destruction of the J‐aggregation. As a result, a long‐lasting CDT is sequentially activated, and the sustained generation of ⋅OH is observed for up to 48 hours, causing potent cellular oxidative stress and apoptosis. Due to their excellent tumor accumulation, Cu‐PCy JNPs exhibit effective in vivo tumor ablation through the converting therapy. This work provides a new approach for effectively prolonging the chemodynamic activity in ROS‐based cancer therapy.
Finding Natural, Dense, and Stable Frustrated Lewis Pairs on Wurtzite Crystal Surfaces for Small‐Molecule Activation
Authors: Yu Xi‐Yang , Huang Zheng‐Qing , Ban Tao , Xu Yun‐Hua , Liu Zhong‐Wen , Chang Chun‐Ran
Published: April 2024

The surface frustrated Lewis pairs (SFLPs) open up new opportunities for substituting noble metals in the activation and conversion of stable molecules. However, the applications of SFLPs on a larger scale are impeded by the complex construction process, low surface density, and sensitivity to the reaction environment. Herein, wurtzite‐structured crystals such as GaN, ZnO, and AlP are found for developing natural, dense, and stable SFLPs. It is revealed that the SFLPs can naturally exist on the (100) and (110) surfaces of wurtzite‐structured crystals. All the surface cations and anions serve as the Lewis acid and Lewis base in SFLPs, respectively, contributing to the surface density of SFLPs as high as 7.26×1014 cm−2. Ab initio molecular dynamics simulations indicate that the SFLPs can keep stable under high temperatures and the reaction atmospheres of CO and H2O. Moreover, outstanding performance for activating the given small molecules is achieved on these natural SFLPs, which originates from the optimal orbital overlap between SFLPs and small molecules. Overall, these findings not only provide a simple method to obtain dense and stable SFLPs but also unfold the nature of SFLPs toward the facile activation of small molecules.
Percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy in acute pulmonary embolism: Outcomes from a safety‐net hospital
Authors: Zhang Robert S. , Alviar Carlos L. , Yuriditsky Eugene , Alam Usman , Zhang Peter S. , Elbaum Lindsay , Grossman Kelsey , Singh Arushi , Maqsood Muhammad H. , Greco Allison A. , Postelnicu Radu , Mukherjee Vikramjit , Horowitz James , Keller Norma , Bangalore Sripal
Published: April 2024

Background

Our study aims to present clinical outcomes of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in a safety‐net hospital.

Methods

This is a retrospective study of intermediate or high‐risk pulmonary embolism (PE) patients who underwent MT between October 2020 and May 2023. The primary outcome was 30‐day mortality.

Results

Among 61 patients (mean age 57.6 years, 47% women, 57% Black) analyzed, 12 (19.7%) were classified as high‐risk PE, and 49 (80.3%) were intermediate‐risk PE. Of these patients, 62.3% had Medicaid or were uninsured, 50.8% lived in a high poverty zip code. The prevalence of normotensive shock in intermediate‐risk PE patients was 62%. Immediate hemodynamic improvements included 7.4 mmHg mean drop in mean pulmonary artery pressure (−21.7%, p < 0.001) and 93% had normalization of their cardiac index postprocedure. Thirty‐day mortality for the entire cohort was 5% (3 patients) and 0% when restricted to the intermediate‐risk group. All 3 patients who died at 30 days presented with cardiac arrest. There were no differences in short‐term mortality based on race, insurance type, citizenship status, or socioeconomic status. All‐cause mortality at most recent follow up was 13.1% (mean follow up time of 13.4 ± 8.5 months).

Conclusion

We extend the findings from prior studies that MT demonstrates a favorable safety profile with immediate improvement in hemodynamics and a low 30‐day mortality in patients with acute PE, holding true even with relatively higher risk and more vulnerable population within a safety‐net hospital.
Folliculotropic mycosis fungoides associated with follicular mucinosis: A case report and mini review
Authors: Aldayhum Majed Saleh , Alshahrani Mohammed Saad , Hussein Mahmoud Rezk A. , Alshahrani Abdulmajeed Saad , Hussein Toka M. R.
Published: April 2024

Key Clinical Message

F‐MF is a rare non‐classic variant of MF. In the case of hair loss, this should be a diagnostic consideration. The essence of the diagnosis of F‐MF is a careful medical history, physical examination, and a combination of immunohistological and molecular analyses (Cureus. 2022; 14:e21231, Ann Saudi Med. 2012; 32:283, Oman Med J. 2012; 27:134, Int J Dermatol. 2016; 55:1396, Saudi Med J. 2018; 39:994 and Case Rep Oncol. 2018; 11:436).

Mycosis fungoides (MF) is a primary cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma with multiple subtypes. Follicular MF (F‐MF) is a non‐classic variant of MF. Histological features entail folliculotropism and damage of the epithelium lining of the hair follicles with or without mucin deposition. A 52‐year‐old male patient complained of recurrent skin lesions on the scalp over 8 months. The lesions appeared suddenly, enlarged over time, and became itchy. A skin punch biopsy was performed. Histological features included mucin deposits in the epithelium of the hair follicles and dense, predominantly perifollicular atypical lymphocytes infiltrating the follicular epithelium. The lymphoid cells were composed of CD3‐positive T cells (CD4/CD8‐positive T cells) with a shift in favor of the former. The case was diagnosed as F‐MF on an immunohistological basis. The diagnosis of F‐MF is often difficult for dermatologists and dermatopathologists alike. Not only clinicopathological correlations but also immunohistochemical and molecular analysis are required.
Bilateral indirect ovarian inguinal hernia in a young female with type 1 Mayer–Rokitansky–Küster–Hauser syndrome: An extremely rare clinical context
Authors: Bhatta Sunil , Ojha Hemant , Ansari Meraj Alam , Shrestha Anuj
Published: April 2024

Key Clinical Message

Incidence of bilateral inguinal hernia encompassing bilateral ovaries in adult female is very thin and concomitant association with Mayer–Rokitansky–Küster–Hauser syndrome is out of ordinary. Along with surgical management of hernia, these females need multidisciplinary slant to manage gynecological, social, and emotional issues.

In mature females, bilateral ovarian inguinal hernias are a rarity. In this situation, ultrasonography is the basic adjunct to confirm the diagnosis. Mayer–Rokitansky–Küster–Hauser syndrome is typically linked to ovarian hernias in grown‐up females. The most important ways to avoid problems are early diagnosis and surgical repair. A 25‐year‐old lady presented to our outpatient clinic with a history of swelling in bilateral inguinal region for 1 month. On the ultrasound examination, the right ovary was visualized in the right high inguinal canal, and the left ovary was seen at the level of deep inguinal ring with no visualization of the uterus in its normal anatomical position. The patient underwent bilateral inguinal exploration under spinal anesthesia, and herniated contents were successfully reduced back to anatomical locations. Clinical care for such a clinical condition must be multifaceted, involving intensive counseling, relocating the uterus, fallopian tube, and ovary to preserve fertility, and preventing consequences like incarceration and strangulation.
Body composition and late‐occurring chronic health conditions after autologous stem cell transplantation for lymphoma
Authors: Giri Smith , Harmon Christian , Landier Wendy , Chen Yanjun , Wu Jessica , Hageman Lindsey , Balas Nora , Francisco Liton , Bosworth Alysia , Weisdorf Daniel J. , Forman Stephen J. , Armenian Saro H. , Williams Grant R. , Bhatia Smita
Published: April 2024

Background

Autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (aPBSCT) is the standard of care for adults with relapsed lymphoma, yet recipients remain at risk of developing chronic health conditions (CHCs). It was hypothesized that body composition measurements of skeletal muscle and fat are associated with late‐onset CHCs and nonrelapse mortality after aPBSCT.

Methods

Leveraging the Blood or Marrow Transplant Survivor Study, we examined association between pre‐aPBSCT body composition and new‐onset grade 3–5 CHCs among 187 adults with lymphoma treated with aPBSCT (2011–2014) surviving ≥2 years after aPBSCT. Using computed tomography scans at the L3 level, skeletal muscle mass (skeletal muscle area and skeletal muscle density [SMD]) and body fat (subcutaneous adipose tissue and visceral adipose tissue) were measured and quantified as sex‐specific z‐scores. Competing risk models were built to study the impact of body composition on incident grade 3 through 5 CHCs and nonrelapse mortality (NRM) adjusting for confounders.

Results

The study cohort had a median age at aPBSCT of 57 years with 63% males, 77% non‐Hispanic Whites and 81% with non‐Hodgkin lymphoma. The 5‐year cumulative incidence of grade 3 through 5 CHCs was 47% (95% Confidence Interval, CI, 38%–56%). Each SD increase in SMD was associated with 30% reduced risk of grade 3 through 5 CHCs (95% CI, 0.50–0.96). The 10‐year cumulative incidence of NRM was 16% (95% CI, 10–22). No body composition measure was associated with NRM.

Conclusions

The association between SMD and grade 3 through 5 CHCs following aPBSCT could inform development of prognostic models to identify adults with lymphoma at greatest risk of morbidity following aPBSCT.
Drug‐induced liver injury as assessed by the updated Roussel Uclaf Causality Assessment Method following mild COVID‐19 in a patient under anastrozole therapy—A case report
Authors: Lischka Wolfgang , Kriegshäuser Gernot
Published: April 2024

Background

Anastrozole is a selective aromatase inhibitor used for the treatment of postmenopausal hormone‐sensitive breast cancer. The major side effects include osteoporosis, hypercholesterolemia, and musculoskeletal events, such as arthralgia and myalgia. Other adverse events are rare, including symptoms of acne, masculinization, and drug‐induced liver injury, with the latter reported in a few cases only.

Case

Here, we report on a patient under anastrozole therapy who developed drug‐induced liver injury as assessed by the updated Roussel Uclaf Causality Assessment Method 5 weeks after a mild SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, which is, to the best of our knowledge, the first report of its kind involving anastrozole. Discontinuation of anastrozole resulted in a marked improvement of the alanine aminotransaminase, and aspartate aminotransaminase as well as normalized lactate dehydrogenase serum levels already seen after 26 days. Surprisingly, however, the cholestatic serum markers gamma‐glutamyl transpeptidase and alkaline phosphatase showed a further rise, and took another 4 weeks to drop significantly.

Conclusion

The presentation of this case is meant to alert physicians to a potential drug‐induced liver injury following mild SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in patients under anastrozole medication.