bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seventy-Five Years of Neonatal Sepsis at Yale: 1928–2003
Authors: Bizzarro Matthew J. , Raskind Craig , Baltimore Robert S. , Gallagher Patrick G.
Published: September 2005

Objective. Yale-New Haven Hospital (Y-NHH) has maintained the longest running, single-center longitudinal database of neonatal sepsis, started in 1928. The objective of this study was to update this database with review of neonatal sepsis cases at Y-NHH to identify longitudinal trends in demographics, pathogens, and outcome.

Methods. Records of infants with positive blood cultures obtained while they were inpatients in the NICU at Y-NHH from 1989 to 2003 were reviewed retrospectively. Records of infants who were ≤30 days of age, had positive blood cultures, and were hospitalized at Y-NHH outside the NICU from the same period were also reviewed, and all findings were compared with 60 years of preexisting data.

Results. A total of 862 organisms were identified in 755 episodes of sepsis from 647 infants. The percentage of cases of early-onset sepsis decreased and late-onset sepsis increased compared with the previous 10-year study period. A marked increase in cases as a result of commensal species was observed, particularly in preterm infants who had indwelling central vascular catheters, were receiving parenteral nutrition, and required prolonged mechanical ventilation. The overall percentage of sepsis caused by group B streptococcus and Escherichia coli decreased. No episodes of sepsis from Streptococcus pneumoniae or S pyogenes, common in the early years of the survey, were observed. The sepsis-related mortality rate steadily decreased, from 87% in 1928 to 3% in 2003.

Conclusions. The demographics, pathogens, and outcome associated with neonatal sepsis continue to change. The increase in late-onset sepsis in preterm infants who required prolonged intensive care indicates that strategies to prevent infection are urgently needed for this population of infants.
Cerebellar Hemorrhage in the Preterm Infant: Ultrasonographic Findings and Risk Factors
Authors: Limperopoulos Catherine , Benson Carol B. , Bassan Haim , Disalvo Donald N. , Kinnamon Daniel D. , Moore Marianne , Ringer Steven A. , Volpe Joseph J. , du Plessis Adré J.
Published: September 2005

Cerebellar hemorrhage (CBH) in premature infants is increasingly diagnosed secondary to improved neuroimaging techniques and survival of very small preterm infants. Information is limited, however, on the incidence, topography, and risk factors for CBH in the preterm infant.

Objectives. To define the incidence of CBH in preterm infants diagnosed by neonatal cranial ultrasound (US), describe the sonographic features of CBH, and identify maternal and perinatal risk factors associated with this lesion.

Methods. A systematic electronic database search identified preterm infants born 1998–2002 with US diagnosis of CBH. For 35 cases of CBH we double-matched (according to gestational age, gender, and year of birth) 70 preterm controls with normal cranial USs and performed detailed medical-record reviews for both patients and controls.

Results. Unilateral CBH was seen in 25 patients (71%), vermian hemorrhage was seen in 7 (20%), and combined bihemispheric and vermian hemorrhage was seen in 3 (9%). Isolated CBH occurred in 8 patients (23%); the remaining infants had associated supratentorial lesions. The incidence of CBH in preterm infants weighing <750 g at birth showed significant increase over the study period. Univariate analyses identified maternal, intrapartum, and early postnatal hemodynamic risk factors; multivariate regressions indicated that emergent caesarian section, patent ductus arteriosus, and lower 5-day minimum pH independently increased the odds of CBH. Neonatal mortality and morbidity were significantly higher among patients with CBH compared with preterm controls.

Conclusions. CBH is an important complication of extreme preterm birth and has been underrecognized in surviving preterm infants. Predictors of CBH seem to be multifactorial and include combined maternal, intrapartum, and early postnatal factors.
Health Supervision for Children With Achondroplasia
Authors: Trotter Tracy L. , Hall Judith G. ,   and the Committee on Genetics
Published: September 2005

Achondroplasia is the most common condition associated with disproportionate short stature. Substantial information is available concerning the natural history and anticipatory health supervision needs in children with this dwarfing disorder. Most children with achondroplasia have delayed motor milestones, problems with persistent or recurrent middle-ear dysfunction, and bowing of the lower legs. Less often, infants and children may have serious health consequences related to hydrocephalus, craniocervical junction compression, upper-airway obstruction, or thoracolumbar kyphosis. Anticipatory care should be directed at identifying children who are at high risk and intervening to prevent serious sequelae. This report is designed to help the pediatrician care for children with achondroplasia and their families.
Infant Methemoglobinemia: The Role of Dietary Nitrate in Food and Water
Authors: Greer Frank R. , Shannon Michael ,   the Committee on Nutrition,   and the Committee on Environmental Health
Published: September 2005

Infants for whom formula may be prepared with well water remain a high-risk group for nitrate poisoning. This clinical report reinforces the need for testing of well water for nitrate content. There seems to be little or no risk of nitrate poisoning from commercially prepared infant foods in the United States. However, reports of nitrate poisoning from home-prepared vegetable foods for infants continue to occur. Breastfeeding infants are not at risk of methemoglobinemia even when mothers ingest water with very high concentrations of nitrate nitrogen (100 ppm).
Psychosocial Implications of Disaster or Terrorism on Children: A Guide for the Pediatrician
Authors: Hagan Joseph F. ,   and the Committee on Psychosocial Aspects of Child and Family Health,   and the Task Force on Terrorism
Published: September 2005

During and after disasters, pediatricians can assist parents and community leaders not only by accommodating the unique needs of children but also by being cognizant of the psychological responses of children to reduce the possibility of long-term psychological morbidity. The effects of disaster on children are mediated by many factors including personal experience, parental reaction, developmental competency, gender, and the stage of disaster response. Pediatricians can be effective advocates for the child and family and at the community level and can affect national policy in support of families. In this report, specific children's responses are delineated, risk factors for adverse reactions are discussed, and advice is given for pediatricians to ameliorate the effects of disaster on children.
Characterizing Population Growth Rate ofConvolvulus arvensisin Wheat–Sunflower No‐Tillage Systems
Authors: Jurado-Expósito Montserrat , López-Granados Francisca , González-Andújar José Luis , García-Torres Luis
Published: August 2005

Convolvulus arvensisL. is an important perennial weed that infests wheat (Triticum aestivumL.) and sunflower (Helianthus annuusL.) in Spain. Many fields of this rotation have been converted to no‐tillage or reduced tillage, so perennial weeds such asC. arvensishave become more troublesome since they cannot be reduced in abundance by repeated tillage or cultivation. The population growth rate (PGR) is important in forecasting future population trends, and it can be used to develop weed control strategies in which applications of herbicides are spatially targeted to minimize possible damage. The objectives of this study were to assess and map PGR ofC. arvensisin a wheat–sunflower no tillage rotation and to determine the temporal stability of the distribution function ofC. arvensisPGR was calculated over the course of four growing seasons (1999–2002) in a wheat–sunflower crop rotation in no‐tillage systems. Spatial variability of PGR was analyzed by geostatistics. Temporal stability of the distribution function ofC. arvensisPGR over time was established by a generalization of the two‐sample Cramér‐von Mises test for a difference between two univariate probability distributions. Year and crop influenced PGR, being larger in the sunflower phase (PGR = 0.52) than in the wheat phase (PGR = 0.16) of a sunflower–wheat rotation system because the density ofC. arvensiswas greater when growing in competition with wheat than with sunflower. The PGR showed a moderate degree of aggregation in patches in both rotations, although the temporal stability of the PGR distribution function was not observed. Overall, PGR became stable over the four growing seasons. Knowledge of growth rate spatial dynamics could improveC. arvensismanagement if it were complemented with spatially herbicide targeted applications.
Genetic Relationships and Diversity Revealed by AFLP Markers in Mexican Common Bean Bred Cultivars
Authors: Rosales-Serna R. , Hernández-Delgado S. , González-Paz M. , Acosta-Gallegos J. A. , Mayek-Pérez N.
Published: August 2005

Landraces and bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) cultivars grown in Mexico are diverse, as are consumer preferences and agroecological production environments. Mexican common bean cultivars were analyzed using amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) fingerprinting to examine the genetic relationships within and among races, based on the genotyping of 112 bred cultivars developed in Mexico. Molecular analysis of dry bean germplasm will be useful to corroborate previous cultivar characterizations and establish the genetic basis of improved germplasm, to facilitate the use of that diversity, and to implement the use of markers in selection. Germplasm included 111 cultivars belonging to Mesoamerica (25), Jalisco (39), Durango (28), and Nueva Granada (19) races, which are commonly cultivated throughout the bean‐producing areas of Mexico. A Mexican P. coccineus species cultivar (Blanco Tlaxcala) was also included for comparison. Broad genetic diversity was found within bean races, and diversity values between races were similar. Most of the Nueva Granada germplasm was clearly different from that of all other races, whereas the P. coccineus cultivar was distinct from all P. vulgaris cultivars. A dendrogram based on the AFLP analysis did not clearly match with that made on the basis of racial classification. This mismatch was probably due to genetic recombination between Andean (Nueva Granada) and Mesoamerican (Jalisco, Durango, and Mesoamerica) gene pools. Utilization of contrasting parents for specific crosses has also contributed to broadening the genetic basis of common bean.
Performance of Forage Soybean in the Southern Great Plains
Authors: Rao S. C. , Mayeux H. S. , Northup B. K.
Published: August 2005

Pasture for livestock in the southern Great Plains is often in short supply during the late summer. This study compared seasonal patterns in forage production, forage quality, and seed yield of three recently developed forage soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] cultivars (Donegal, Derry, and Tyrone) to the seed cultivar Hutcheson. Inoculated seeds were planted at 60 kg ha−1 in rows (20 m long) with 60‐cm spacing, in June 2001, 2002, and 2003, after harvest of no‐till winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Whole plant samples were collected on six sample dates from approximately 52 to 120 d after seeding (DAS). At 120 DAS, forage soybeans Derry, Donegal, and Tyrone leaf and stem accumulations were 15, 46, and 47% and 43, 69, and 126% greater than that of Hutcheson, respectively. Seed soybean initiated flowering 15 d earlier than forage soybeans, resulting in lower leaf and stem yield. Forage quality of whole plants (N concentration and dry matter digestibility) of whole plant was similar across cultivars. Seed yield of Tyrone was lowest (690 kg ha−1), as compared to Donegal (1180 kg ha−1), Hutcheson (985 kg ha−1), or Derry (939 kg ha−1). Nitrogen concentration and digestible dry matter (DDM) of seed for all cultivars were similar. We concluded that forage soybean cultivars could provide greater leaf and stem biomass for livestock in the southern Great Plains during late summer and early fall when perennial warm‐season grasses are less productive.
Inexpensive, High Throughput Microplate Format for Plant Nucleic Acid Extraction: Suitable for Multiplex Southern Analyses of Transgenes
Authors: Flagel L. , Christensen J. R. , Gustus C. D. , Smith K. P. , Olhoft P. M. , Somers D. A. , Matthews P. D.
Published: August 2005

To achieve high throughput analysis of genomic DNA from small amounts of plant tissue, a standard nucleic acid extraction was formatted to microplates by linking a novel series of interlocking plates. The protocol integrates steel pellet tissue homogenization and unique liquid handling and phase separation techniques with minimal special equipment. The method was validated for difficult plant DNAs, such as hop (Humulus lupulus L.), soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.], and tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.), with agarose gel separations of restriction fragments and Southern blot analysis of transgene integrants in soybean. The range of success rates for Southern blots was 73 to 92% per sample per plate (n = 2016 samples). Variation in absolute yield was quantified by PicoGreen microplate flourimetry. The variation in yield among samples per plate was small enough to obviate individual sample concentration adjustment before Southern analysis. Average absolute yield for the barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) mapping population based on flourimetry was 6.8 μg ± 0.85 SE, n = 96; providing enough pure, stable DNA for many individual polymerase chain reaction (PCR) reactions. Intersample cross‐contamination and suitability for PCR analysis were validated by simple sequence repeat (SSR) display of a previously characterized barley mapping population. Cost calculation from a materials detail was U.S. $0.17 per sample extraction. Although the implementation requires some skill and practice, we find it to be a robust, adaptable, and versatile alternative to expensive commercial kits.
Agronomic Performance of Timothy Germplasm from Forage and Turf Sods under Two Harvest Managements
Authors: Casler M. D.
Published: August 2005

Cultivated timothy (Phleum pratense L.) is an important grass for hay production in temperate North America. It is underutilized in management‐intensive rotational grazing systems because of its poor persistence when frequently defoliated. The objective of this study was to compare families selected for forage yield under frequent defoliation, families derived from old turf sods, and cultivars for agronomic performance under frequent and infrequent harvest managements (four vs. two harvests per year). Forage timothy was generally superior to turf timothy for most traits. Forage selections averaged 9.4 and 4.9% higher forage yield compared with cultivars under infrequent and frequent harvest managements, respectively, indicating that selection for higher forage yield under frequent harvest improved forage yield under both harvest frequencies. There were differences among the four types of turf (golf course fairways and roughs, cemeteries, and lawn/roadways), but these differences were not closely related to mowing height or frequency, perhaps because of the small sample size. Some turf collections ranked high for net herbage accumulation under frequent harvesting, but most turf collections were also characterized by a high frequency of regrowth panicles under either or both harvest frequencies. Timothy germplasm from old turf sods may have value in developing new timothy cultivars with improved tolerance to frequent defoliation and efforts should continue to gather and evaluate collections from a range of turf types and locations.
Transgressive Segregation for Oleate Content in Three Soybean Populations
Authors: Alt Jessie L. , Fehr Walter R. , Welke Grace A. , Shannon J. Grover
Published: August 2005

Increased oleate content of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] oil may be useful for food and industrial applications requiring increased oxidative stability. The objective of this study was to determine if transgressive segregates for oleate content could be found in crosses between three mid‐oleate lines: FA22 from Iowa State University, N98‐4445A from the USDA‐ARS/North Carolina State University, and M23 from Saga University, Japan. Single‐cross populations of FA22 × M23, FA22 × N98‐4445A, and N98‐4445A × M23 were developed. Plants with significantly greater oleate than the highest oleate parent were observed in the three populations in the F2 and F3 generations. For the F3:4 lines grown in Puerto Rico, there were four lines with significantly greater oleate than the highest parent in the cross FA22 × M23, one line in FA22 × N98‐4445A, and 27 lines in N98‐4445A × M23. The F3:4 line with the greatest oleate content had 689 g kg−1 in the population FA22 × M23, 672 g kg−1 in FA22 × N98‐4445A, and 730 g kg−1 in N98‐4445A × M23 compared with 542 g kg−1 for FA22, 589 g kg−1 for N98‐4445A, and 583 g kg−1 for M23. Transgressive segregates from the populations should be useful as parents in a breeding program to develop cultivars with elevated oleate content.
Food Insecurity Among Graduate Students and Postdoctoral Trainees
Authors: Hammad Nour M. , Leung Cindy W.
Published: February 2024

Importance

Food insecurity on college campuses has emerged as an urgent public health priority; however, there has been a lack of studies focused on graduate students or postdoctoral trainees, particularly those enrolled at private academic institutions.

Objective

To estimate the prevalence of and factors associated with food insecurity among graduate students and postdoctoral trainees at a private academic university in Boston, Massachusetts.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this cross-sectional survey study, a survey on food insecurity was sent to graduate students and postdoctoral trainees at 3 health-focused graduate schools at Harvard University during the end of the spring 2023 academic term (April to June). Participants were studying medicine, dental medicine, or public health. Data analysis was performed from July to September 2023.

Exposure

Sociodemographic characteristics of graduate students and postdoctoral trainees.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was food insecurity as assessed using the US Household Food Security Survey Module. Food insecurity also encompassed low and very low food security. Bidirectional stepwise logistic regression models were conducted to estimate the factors associated with food insecurity for graduate students and postdoctoral trainees.

Results

The analytic sample included 1745 participants (response rate, 55%): 1287 were graduate students and 458 were postdoctoral trainees. The median age of respondents was 29.0 (IQR, 7.0) years, and more than half (1073 [61.5%]) identified as female. A total of 694 respondents (39.8%) identified as Asian, 625 (35.8%) as White, and 426 (24.4%) as being of other race or ethnicity. The prevalence of food insecurity was 17.4% (224 of 1287) among graduate students and 12.7% (58 of 458) among postdoctoral trainees. Among graduate students, factors associated with food insecurity included being Asian (OR, 1.06 [95% CI, 1.01-1.11]) or of other race or ethnicity (OR, 1.07 [95% CI, 1.02-1.13]), receiving financial aid (OR, 1.09 [95% CI, 1.05-1.13]), and having housing instability (OR, 1.53 [95% CI, 1.45-1.61]). Among postdoctoral trainees, factors associated with food insecurity included receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits (OR, 1.59 [95% CI, 1.28-1.97]), having housing instability (OR, 1.33 [95% CI, 1.22-1.45]), and not owning a car (OR, 1.11 [95% CI, 1.04-1.18]).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this study, a substantial proportion of graduate students and postdoctoral trainees at a private academic institution experienced food insecurity during the academic year. These findings underscore the need for national and institutional interventions to address the complex, structural factors related to food insecurity in these distinct populations.
Diagnosis of Perinatal Mental Health Conditions Following Medicaid Expansion to Include Low-Income Immigrants
Authors: Rodriguez Maria I. , Martinez-Acevedo Ann , Kaufman Menolly , Nacev Erin C. , Mackiewicz-Seghete Kristen , McConnell K. John
Published: February 2024

Importance

For some low-income people, access to care during pregnancy is not guaranteed through Medicaid, based on their immigration status. While states have the option to extend Emergency Medicaid coverage for prenatal and postpartum care, many states have not expanded coverage.

Objective

To determine whether receipt of first prenatal care services and subsequently receipt of postpartum care through extensions of Emergency Medicaid coverage were associated with increases in diagnosis and treatment of perinatal mental health conditions.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study used linked Medicaid claims and birth certificate data from 2010 to 2020 with a difference-in-difference design to compare the rollout of first prenatal care coverage in 2013 and then postpartum services in Oregon in 2018 with a comparison state, South Carolina, which did not cover prenatal or postpartum care as part of Emergency Medicaid and only covered emergent conditions and obstetric hospital admissions. Medicaid claims and birth certificate data were linked by Medicaid identification number prior to receipt by the study team. Participants included recipients of Emergency Medicaid who gave birth in Oregon or South Carolina. Data were analyzed from April 1 to October 15, 2023.

Exposure

Medicaid coverage of prenatal care and Medicaid coverage of postpartum care.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The main outcome was the diagnosis of a perinatal mental health condition within 60 days postpartum. Secondary outcomes included treatment of a mood disorder with medication or talk therapy.

Results

The study sample included 43 889 births to Emergency Medicaid recipients who were mainly aged 20 to 34 years (32 895 individuals [75.0%]), multiparous (33 887 individuals [77.2%]), and living in metropolitan areas (32 464 individuals [74.0%]). Following Oregon’s policy change to offer prenatal coverage to pregnant individuals through Emergency Medicaid, there was a significant increase in diagnosis frequency (4.1 [95% CI, 1.7-6.5] percentage points) and a significant difference between states in treatment for perinatal mental health conditions (27.3 [95% CI, 13.2-41.4] percentage points). Postpartum Medicaid coverage (in addition to prenatal Medicaid coverage) was associated with an increase of 2.6 (95% CI, 0.6-4.6) percentage points in any mental health condition being diagnosed, but there was no statistically significant difference in receipt of mental health treatment.

Conclusions and Relevance

These findings suggest that changing Emergency Medicaid policy to include coverage for prenatal and 60 days of postpartum care for immigrants is foundational to improving maternal mental health. Expanded postpartum coverage length, or culturally competent interventions, may be needed to optimize receipt of postpartum treatment.
Adverse Immunological Reactions to Drugs
Authors: Ardern‐Jones Michael R.
Published: February 2024

Cutaneous eruptions caused by drug hypersensitivity reactions have been the subject of great interest to dermatologists for more than half a century. The precise molecular pathways involved in their pathogenesis are becoming clearer but there remain many areas that are poorly understood. Close delineation of the mechanistic pathways has been possible for some reactions including those where a close association with a specific human leukocyte antigen (HLA) type has been demonstrated. This work was led by the discovery that abacavir directly binds the HLA‐B*5701 major histocompatibility complex (MHC) peptide groove thereby altering the repertoire of self‐peptides that can be expressed in the MHC. Such novel self‐peptides are targeted T cells, which results in cytokine inflammation and induces clinical features typical of a drug hypersensitivity syndrome. HLA associations with severe cutaneous adverse reactions have now been shown for many different drugs. Despite the initial enthusiasm of this approach, it has become apparent that some drug–HLA associations have a lower odds ratio than others. This underscores the interpretation that other individual factors are at play as well as HLA sequence. Indeed, drug/HLA/clinical phenotype do not always correlate. For example, carbamazepine hypersensitivity is associated with both HLA‐B*1502 and HLA‐A*3101, yet genetic studies show that the former only predisposes to Stevens–Johnson syndrome (SJS)/toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) although the latter associates with exanthems, systemic hypersensitivity and SJS/TEN. In TEN, multiple molecular mechanisms of keratinocyte death have been postulated but two predominate including: (i) FasL upregulation and induction of Fas‐mediated keratinocyte cell death; and (ii) cytotoxic granulysin production by T, natural killer (NK) and NKT cells. Whether these act independently or synergistically remains to be established.
The TILOS AI Institute: Integrating optimization and AI for chip design, networks, and robotics
Authors: Kahng Andrew B. , Mazumdar Arya , Reeves Jodi , Wang Yusu
Published: February 2024

Optimization is a universal quest, reflecting the basic human need to do better. Improved optimizations of energy‐efficiency, safety, robustness, and other criteria in engineered systems would bring incalculable societal benefits. But, fundamental challenges of scale and complexity keep many such real‐world optimization needs beyond reach. This article describes The Institute for Learning‐enabled Optimization at Scale (TILOS), an NSF AI Research Institute for Advances in Optimization that aims to overcome these challenges in three high‐stakes use domains: chip design, communication networks, and contextual robotics. TILOS integrates foundational research, translation, education, and broader impacts toward a new nexus of optimization, AI, and data‐driven learning. We summarize central challenges, early progress, and futures for the institute.
Improving Electromigration Resistance of Fine‐Pitch Redistributed Layer Using Graphene‐Doped Twinned Copper Composites
Authors: Shi Zixiang , Wang ZeSong , Gao Li‐Yin , Zhong Cheng , Li Peifeng , Liu Zhi‐Quan , Sun Rong
Published: February 2024

The electromigration (EM) behavior of graphene‐doped twinned copper composite (GC–Cu) and nanotwinned copper (NT–Cu) redistributed layers (RDLs) are investigated. Firstly, the GC–Cu has longer lifetimes under various test conditions. For example, the GC–Cu RDL took 291 h to reach a 20% resistance increase, while the NT–Cu RDL took 117 h under the same condition of 120 °C and 106 A cm−2. Secondly, thinner oxidation layer and slighter voiding phenomena are detected on GC–Cu RDLs. When the line width and spacing (L/S) of RDL decreased from 20/20 μm to 10/10 μm, new failure modes, i.e., fracture of oxide layer, separation between the oxide layer and copper matrix are also detected, demonstrating the increasing thermal mismatch. Combined with the finite element analysis (FEA), there is simultaneous current aggregation and stress concentration around the voids, which should further cause the degradation of RDL. Above all, this study gives insights into the material design in the fine‐pitch RDL structure.
Gallium‐Based Liquid Metal Composites and the Continuous Forming Methods
Authors: Wang Xinpeng , Wu Yudong , Wang Hongzhang , Li Liangtao , Liu Xinyu , Wang Wenjie , Hu Liang , Fan Yubo
Published: February 2024

Due to the dual nature of metal and fluid, gallium‐based liquid metals with a low melting point at or around room temperature have gained growing interest recently. Although more properties of gallium are developed, their intrinsic properties are not able to meet the increasing requirement from the scientific and industrial community. To broaden its applications, many kinds of gallium‐based liquid metal composites are prepared and applied in the cutting‐edge fields like biomedical engineering, flexible robots, heat management, and so on. To summarize the latest progress and promote development, this review summarizes the recent progress of liquid metal composites and the continuous forming methods recently, including the physical and chemical properties of gallium‐based liquid metal, composites prepared through physical doping and surface modification, and the continuous forming approaches. Further outlook including expectations and challenges of gallium‐based liquid metal composites is also presented.
Simultaneous High Charge‐Spin Conversion Efficiency and Large Spin Diffusion Length in Altermagnetic RuO2
Authors: Zhang Yichi , Bai Hua , Han Lei , Chen Chong , Zhou Yongjian , Back Christian H. , Pan Feng , Wang Yuyan , Song Cheng
Published: February 2024

Efficient spin sources with large spin Hall angle (θSH) and long spin diffusion length (λSD) are highly desired in the application of spintronic devices. However, due to strong spin‐orbit coupling, the two targets can hardly be achieved simultaneously in conventional relativistic spin sources, like heavy metals. Here, it is proven that collinear antiferromagnetic RuO2 films are able to address this key issue and break the inverse relationship of θSH versus λSD. Based on spin torque‐ferromagnetic resonance and spin pumping measurements, the authors demonstrate that the θSH of RuO2(100) films is 0.183, and the λSD is over 12 nm being an order of magnitude longer than that of Pt, β‐W, and β‐Ta. Meanwhile, sizable λSD is also obtained in spin current with out‐of‐plane spin polarization generated by RuO2(101) films. By conducting a control experiment, the nonrelativistic altermagnetic spin splitting effect (ASSE) is ascertained to be the crucial mechanism accounting for the simultaneous large θSH and long λSD in RuO2. Besides the fundamental significance, these findings will advance the development of spintronics towards higher efficiency and lower power consumption.
Regulating Interparticle Proximity in Plasmonic Nanosphere Aggregates to Enhance Photoacoustic Response and Photothermal Stability
Authors: Kim Myeongsoo , Kubelick Kelsey P. , Yu Anthony M. , VanderLaan Don , Jhunjhunwala Anamik , Nikolai Robert J. , Cadena Melissa , Kim Jinhwan , Emelianov Stanislav Y.
Published: February 2024

Designing plasmonic nanoparticles for biomedical photoacoustic (PA) imaging involves tailoring material properties at the nanometer scale. A key in developing plasmonic PA contrast nanoagents is to engineer their enhanced optical responses in the near‐infrared wavelength range, as well as heat transfer properties and photostability. This study introduces anisotropic plasmonic nanosphere aggregates with close interparticle proximity as photostable and efficient contrast agents for PA imaging. Silver (Ag) is particularly attractive because it has the strongest optical response and highest heat conductivity among plasmonic metals. The results demonstrate that close interparticle proximity in silver nanoaggregates (AgNAs), spatially confined within a polymer shell layer, leads to blackbody‐like optical absorption, resulting in robust PA signals through efficient pulsed heat generation and transfer. Additionally, the AgNAs exhibit a high photodamage threshold highlighting their potential to outperform conventional plasmonic contrast agents for high‐contrast PA imaging over multiple imaging sessions. Furthermore, the capability of the AgNAs are demonstrated for molecular PA cancer imaging in vivo by incorporating a tumor‐targeting peptide moiety.
Antibacterial Defective‐ZIF‐8/PPY/BC‐Based Flexible Electronics as Stress‐Strain and NO2 Gas Sensors
Authors: Men Ying , Qin Ziyu , Yang Zhou , Zhang Pengcheng , Li Mengting , Wang Qingji , Zeng Dawen , Yin Xueqiong , Ji Hongbing
Published: February 2024

Intelligent wearable sensors play a crucial role in the detection of toxic gases and monitoring physiological signals, thereby effectively ensuring environmental and personal health safety. Nonetheless, achieving the requirements for antibacterial properties, comfortable wear, and multifunctional detection remains a major challenge. In this study, a novel Def‐ZIF‐8/PPY/BC‐based flexible sensor is developed by in situ growth of zeolitic imidazolate frameworks‐8 (ZIF‐8) and polypyrrole (PPY) on bacterial cellulose (BC), followed by water immersion. The Def‐ZIF‐8/PPY/BC‐based flexible sensor demonstrates effective dual‐sensitivity responses to nitrogen dioxide (NO2) toxic gas and stress‐strain behaviors at room temperature. The structural characterization and theoretical calculations affirm that the innovative water treatment method successfully introduces defects into ZIF‐8, resulting in a significant 2.57‐fold improvement in response intensity to 80 ppm NO2. Stress‐strain sensing performance analysis reveals that the Def‐ZIF‐8/PPY/BC‐based flexible sensor exhibited high sensitivity (6.44 kPa−1), rapid response and recovery times (0.7/0.4 s), and exceptional cyclic stability (8000 cycles). Further, the inhibitory effect of ZIF‐8 on common bacterial strains contributes to the exceptional antibacterial properties (antibacterial rate exceeding 99%) of the Def‐ZIF‐8/PPY/BC based on the flexible sensor. This study offers a significant advancement in metal‐organic framework defect engineering and provides an effective strategy for developing multifunctional wearable sensors.
Recent Developments of Carbon Dots for Advanced Zinc‐Based Batteries: A Review
Authors: Yi Mingguang , Jing Mingjun , Yang Yingchang , Huang Yujie , Zou Guoqiang , Wu Tianjing , Hou Hongshuai , Ji Xiaobo
Published: February 2024

Rechargeable Zn‐based batteries provide a compelling supplement to subsistent energy storage devices owing to their high energy density, good safety, and low cost. Nevertheless, inherent imperfections such as dendrite growth, side reactions, and andante reaction kinetics, severely impede their commercialization. As new 0D nanomaterials, carbon dots (CDs) with unique characteristics and excellent electrochemical activity, exhibit promising potential exploitation in electrochemistry and electrocatalysis areas. Herein, the adhibition of CDs in resolving the aforementioned drawbacks of Zn‐based batteries is introduced. To begin with, concepts, physicochemical properties, and synthetic methods of CDs are discussed. Next, recent developments and advances exploiting CDs in respectively ameliorating the performance of the Zn anode, the cathode, and electrolytes of Zn ion batteries and bifunctional electrocatalytic activities including oxygen reduction reaction and oxygen evolution reaction for Zn‐air batteries, are roundly reviewed and minutely generalized. Finally, current challenges and prospects are surveyed as well, aiming to offer a reference for the blossom of advanced Zn‐based batteries.
Deterministic Single‐Cell Encapsulation in PEG Norbornene Microgels for Promoting Anti‐Inflammatory Response and Therapeutic Delivery of Mesenchymal Stromal Cells
Authors: Si Hangjun , Chen Yuanzhuo , Jiang Kun , Ma Ke , Ramsey Edward , Oakey John , Sun Mingming , Jiang Zhongliang
Published: February 2024

Tissue engineering at single‐cell resolution has enhanced therapeutic efficacy. Droplet microfluidics offers a powerful platform that allows deterministic single‐cell encapsulation into aqueous droplets, yet the direct encapsulation of cells into microgels remains challenging. Here, the design of a microfluidic device that is capable of single‐cell encapsulation within polyethylene glycol norbornene (PEGNB) hydrogels on‐chip is reported. Cells are first ordered in media within a straight microchannel via inertial focusing, followed by the introduction of PEGNB solution from two separate, converging channels. Droplets are thoroughly mixed by passage through a serpentine channel, and microgels are formed by photo‐photopolymerization. This platform uniquely enables both single‐cell encapsulation and excellent cell viability post‐photo‐polymerization. More than 90% of singly encapsulated mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) remain alive for 7 days. Notably, singly encapsulated MSCs have elevated expression levels in genes that code anti‐inflammatory cytokines, for example, IL‐10 and TGF‐β, thus enhancing the secretion of proteins of interest. Following injection into a mouse model with induced inflammation, singly encapsulated MSCs show a strong retention rate in vivo, reduce overall inflammation, and mitigate liver damage. These translational results indicate that deterministic single‐cell encapsulation could find use in a broad spectrum of tissue engineering applications.
High Performance Stretchable Wire Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Muniraj Vedi Kuyil Azhagan , Delattre Roger , Saadaoui Mohamed , Calmes Cyril , Kurbatov Andrey Petrovitch , Kaupbay Olzhas , Malchik Fyodor , Djenizian Thierry
Published: February 2024

The development of integrated micro‐power sources is mainly driven by innovative investigations in materials chemistry, battery designs, and microfabrication processes. Here, a new technique is described for the development of coaxial wire‐shaped Li‐ion batteries by successfully adopting the unidirectional helical winding method starting from a twisted Cu fabric. Such a coaxial wire battery is examined by scanning electron microscopy and characterized by electrochemical techniques. These investigations reveal that the proposed approach is definitely suitable for achieving wire batteries showing high energy storage capacity while being highly flexible and stretchable without compromising the whole electrochemical performance even under mechanical deformations. The full cell based on the Li4Ti5O12/LiCoO2 system delivers an outstanding linear capacity of 137 µAh cm−1 at a 0.1C rate with nearly 100% coulombic efficiency and is further capable of being operated at various kinetics. It is also shown that such a coaxial wire battery can be used to power different electronic devices, which is of significance for the development of autonomous wearable applications like electronic textiles
Agri‐food trade liberalization, export prices, and quality upgrading: Evidence from the meat and chocolate sectors in OECD countries
Authors: Valea Aristide Bonsdaouêndé , Tamini Lota D. , Rousselière Damien
Published: February 2024

This article examines the impact of trade liberalization on export prices and quality. The article is innovative in two respects. First, unlike previous studies, it considers both input and output tariffs simultaneously in a theoretical model. Second, it empirically tests the effects of a combination of specific and ad‐valorem tariffs on quality improvement. The theoretical analysis suggests that when firms face reduced output and input tariffs, they tend to improve their export quality and increase export prices. Using export data from 33 OECD countries, the empirical analysis demonstrates that output tariff reduction increases export quality but decreases prices. However, the effects of input tariff reduction on price and quality depend on product differentiation. The results also indicate that the presence of specific tariffs increase product quality while amplifying the positive effects of the reduction of ad‐valorem tariffs on quality. This implies that to improve export quality, reducing ad‐valorem tariffs is more efficient than a specific tariff. [EconLit Citations: F12, F14, Q17].
Liquid–liquid mass transfer and pressure drop behavior in micro‐packed beds with different shaped packings
Authors: Zhang Jingwei , Zhang Xiaohui , Xu Jianhong , Chen Zhuo
Published: February 2024

In this work, the liquid–liquid two‐phase pressure drop and mass transfer characteristics in micro‐packed beds with different shaped packing are investigated. The experimental results show that the liquid–liquid mass transfer performance of micro‐packed bed is significantly affected by both apparent flow rates and phase ratio. By changing the characteristic size of the micro‐packed bed, the experimental results show that the average volume mass transfer coefficient has no obvious correlation with the length of the bed, which indicates that the flow and dispersion behavior along the length of the micro‐packed bed is basically stable. By considering dispersion strengthening, vortex strengthening and size effect, a semi‐empirical model for predicting liquid–liquid mass transfer performance in a micro‐packed bed is established for the first time. The model is in good agreement with the experimental results and has strong applicability to various shaped packings. In addition, by considering the contribution of inertia force, viscous force and interfacial tension to energy dissipation, a semi‐empirical model of liquid–liquid two‐phase pressure drop in a micro‐packed bed is established. The pressure drop prediction model can also be applied to different shaped packings.
Genetic relatedness can alter the strength of plant–soil interactions
Authors: Clark Kelly M. , Gallagher Marci J. , Canam Thomas , Meiners Scott J.
Published: February 2024

Premise

Intraspecific variation may play a key role in shaping the relationships between plants and their interactions with soil microbial communities. The soil microbes of individual plants can generate intraspecific variation in the responsiveness of the plant offspring, yet have been much less studied. To address this need, we explored how the relatedness of seedlings from established clones of Solidago altissima altered the plant–soil interactions of the seedlings.

Methods

Seedlings of known parentage were generated from a series of 24 clones grown in a common garden. Seedlings from these crosses were inoculated with soils from maternal, paternal, or unrelated clones and their performance compared to sterilized control inocula.

Results

We found that soil inocula influenced by S. altissima clones had an overall negative effect on seedling biomass. Furthermore, seedlings inoculated with maternal or paternal soils tended to experience larger negative effects than seedlings inoculated with unrelated soils. However, there was much variation among individual crosses, with not all responding to relatedness.

Conclusions

Our data argue that genetic relatedness to the plant from which the soil microbial inoculum was obtained may cause differential impacts on establishing seedlings, encouraging the regeneration of non‐kin adjacent to established clones. Such intraspecific variation represents a potentially important source of heterogeneity in plant–soil microbe interactions with implications for maintaining population genetic diversity.
Six‐week low‐molecular‐weight heparin versus 12‐week warfarin for calf deep vein thrombosis: A randomized, prospective, open‐label study
Authors: Sartori Michelangelo , Iotti Matteo , Camporese Giuseppe , Siragusa Sergio , Imberti Davide , Bucherini Eugenio , Corradini Sara , Ageno Walter , Prandoni Paolo , Ghirarduzzi Angelo
Published: February 2024

Current guidelines suggest a 3‐month anticoagulant treatment course for isolated distal deep vein thrombosis (IDDVT), but shorter durations of treatment are frequently prescribed in clinical practice. We investigated whether a 6‐week treatment with low‐molecular‐weight heparin (LMWH) at intermediate dosage can be an effective and safe alternative to vitamin K antagonists (VKA) in patients with IDDVT (non‐inferiority trial). In a multicenter, open‐label, randomized trial, 260 outpatients with symptomatic IDDVT were randomly assigned to receive either LMWH followed by VKA for 12 weeks or LMWH 1 mg/kg subcutaneously twice a day for 2 weeks followed by 1 mg/kg subcutaneously once a day for 4 weeks. The follow‐up was 6 months and the primary endpoint was the composite measure of recurrent venous thromboembolism (VTE) defined as: recurrence or extension of IDDVT, proximal DVT, and pulmonary embolism (PE). The study was stopped prematurely due to slow recruiting rates. The primary efficacy outcome occurred in 14 patients receiving LMWH (10.8%) and in five patients receiving VKA (3.8%); risk difference was 0.069 (95% CI: 0.006–0.132), hazard ratio 2.8 (95% CI: 1.04–7.55). There was one PE in the VKA group and one proximal DVT in the LMWH group. IDDVT recurrence was 10.0% in the LMWH group versus 3.1% in the VKA group (p = .024). Two patients had clinically relevant bleedings (1.6%) in the LMWH group versus one (0.8%) in VKA group (p = .56). In conclusion, VKA for 12 weeks seems superior to LMWH for 6 weeks in reducing the risk of VTE recurrences in our cohort of outpatients with IDDVT.
Pyrrole‐Thiazolidin‐4‐one Analogues Exhibit Promising Anti‐Tuberculosis Activity
Authors: Ahmed Shujauddin , Mital Alka , Akhir Abdul , Saxena Deepanshi , Jahan Kousar , Dubey Gurudutt , Bharatam P. V. , Dasgupta Arunava , Chopra Sidharth , Jain Rahul
Published: February 2024

A series of pyrrole‐thiazolidin‐4‐one conjugates were synthesized and evaluated for their anti‐mycobacterial and anti‐bacterial activities. Two compounds, 10 a and 10 k, were the most effective conjugates and produced identical MICs (0.5 μg/mL) against M. tuberculosis H37Rv with a high selectivity index. Upon evaluation against the ESKAP bacteria panel, compound 10 g emerged most effective against S. aureus (MIC=8.0 μg/mL) while compound 10 o produced activity against A. baumannii (MIC=4.0 μg/mL). A molecular docking study revealed that the most active compound 10 a has similar binding interactions as those of BM212 and rimonabant, with a comparable docking score against M. tuberculosis mycolic acid transporter MmpL3.
Silencing Apoe with divalent‐siRNAs improves amyloid burden and activates immune response pathways in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Ferguson Chantal M. , Hildebrand Samuel , Godinho Bruno M. D. C. , Buchwald Julianna , Echeverria Dimas , Coles Andrew , Grigorenko Anastasia , Vangjeli Lorenc , Sousa Jacquelyn , McHugh Nicholas , Hassler Matthew , Santarelli Francesco , Heneka Michael T. , Rogaev Evgeny , Khvorova Anastasia
Published: February 2024

INTRODUCTION

The most significant genetic risk factor for late‐onset Alzheimer's disease (AD) is APOE4, with evidence for gain‐ and loss‐of‐function mechanisms. A clinical need remains for therapeutically relevant tools that potently modulate APOE expression.

METHODS

We optimized small interfering RNAs (di‐siRNA, GalNAc) to potently silence brain or liver Apoe and evaluated the impact of each pool of Apoe on pathology.

RESULTS

In adult 5xFAD mice, siRNAs targeting CNS Apoe efficiently silenced Apoe expression and reduced amyloid burden without affecting systemic cholesterol, confirming that potent silencing of brain Apoe is sufficient to slow disease progression. Mechanistically, silencing Apoe reduced APOE‐rich amyloid cores and activated immune system responses.

DISCUSSION

These results establish siRNA‐based modulation of Apoe as a viable therapeutic approach, highlight immune activation as a key pathway affected by Apoe modulation, and provide the technology to further evaluate the impact of APOE silencing on neurodegeneration.
Biocatalytic Steroidal 9α‐Hydroxylation and Fragmentation Enable the Concise Chemoenzymatic Synthesis of 9,10‐Secosteroids
Authors: Song Hanxin , Zhang Zeliang , Cao Chunyang , Tang Zhijun , Gui Jinghan , Liu Wen
Published: February 2024

9,10‐Secosteroids are an important group of marine steroids with diverse biological activities. Herein, we report a chemoenzymatic strategy for the concise, modular, and scalable synthesis of ten naturally occurring 9,10‐secosteroids from readily available steroids in three to eight steps. The key feature lies in utilizing a Rieske oxygenase‐like 3‐ketosteroid 9α‐hydroxylase (KSH) as the biocatalyst to achieve efficient C9−C10 bond cleavage and A‐ring aromatization of tetracyclic steroids through 9α‐hydroxylation and fragmentation. With synthesized 9,10‐secosteroides, structure–activity relationship was evaluated based on bioassays in terms of previously unexplored anti‐infective activity. This study provides experimental evidence to support the hypothesis that the biosynthetic pathway through which 9,10‐secosteroids are formed in nature shares a similar 9α‐hydroxylation and fragmentation cascade. In addition to the development of a biomimetic approach for 9,10‐secosteroid synthesis, this study highlights the great potential of chemoenzymatic strategies in chemical synthesis.