bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two
Dictyostelium
Orthologs of the Prokaryotic Cell Division Protein FtsZ Localize to Mitochondria and Are Required for the Maintenance of Normal Mitochondrial Morphology
Authors: Gilson Paul R. , Yu Xuan-Chuan , Hereld Dale , Barth Christian , Savage Amelia , Kiefel Ben R. , Lay Sui , Fisher Paul R. , Margolin William , Beech Peter L.
Published: December 2003

In bacteria, the protein FtsZ is the principal component of a ring that constricts the cell at division. Though all mitochondria probably arose through a single, ancient bacterial endosymbiosis, the mitochondria of only certain protists appear to have retained FtsZ, and the protein is absent from the mitochondria of fungi, animals, and higher plants. We have investigated the role that FtsZ plays in mitochondrial division in the genetically tractable protist
Dictyostelium discoideum
, which has two nuclearly encoded FtsZs, FszA and FszB, that are targeted to the inside of mitochondria. In most wild-type amoebae, the mitochondria are spherical or rod-shaped, but in
fsz
-null mutants they become elongated into tubules, indicating that a decrease in mitochondrial division has occurred. In support of this role in organelle division, antibodies to FszA and FszA-green fluorescent protein (GFP) show belts and puncta at multiple places along the mitochondria, which may define future or recent sites of division. FszB-GFP, in contrast, locates to an electron-dense, submitochondrial body usually located at one end of the organelle, but how it functions during division is unclear. This is the first demonstration of two differentially localized FtsZs within the one organelle, and it points to a divergence in the roles of these two proteins.
Functional Characterization of
Candida albicans
ABC Transporter Cdr1p
Authors: Shukla Suneet , Saini Preeti , Smriti  , Jha Sudhakar , Ambudkar Suresh V. , Prasad Rajendra
Published: December 2003

In view of the importance of
Candida
drug resistance protein (Cdr1p) in azole resistance, we have characterized it by overexpressing it as a green fluorescent protein (GFP)-tagged fusion protein (Cdr1p-GFP). The overexpressed Cdr1p-GFP in
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
is shown to be specifically labeled with the photoaffinity analogs iodoarylazidoprazosin (IAAP) and azidopine, which have been used to characterize the drug-binding sites on mammalian drug-transporting P-glycoproteins. While nystatin could compete for the binding of IAAP, miconazole specifically competed for azidopine binding, suggesting that IAAP and azidopine bind to separate sites on Cdr1p. Cdr1p was subjected to site-directed mutational analysis. Among many mutant variants of Cdr1p, the phenotypes of F774A and ΔF774 were particularly interesting. The analysis of GFP-tagged mutant variants of Cdr1p revealed that a conserved F774, in predicted transmembrane segment 6, when changed to alanine showed increased binding of both photoaffinity analogues, while its deletion (ΔF774), as revealed by confocal microscopic analyses, led to mislocalization of the protein. The mislocalized ΔF774 mutant Cdr1p could be rescued to the plasma membrane as a functional transporter by growth in the presence of a Cdr1p substrate, cycloheximide. Our data for the first time show that the drug substrate-binding sites of Cdr1p exhibit striking similarities with those of mammalian drug-transporting P-glycoproteins and despite differences in topological organization, the transmembrane segment 6 in Cdr1p is also a major contributor to drug substrate-binding site(s).
A NOVEL MERON-INDUCED PSEUDOSPIN WAVE IN THE BILAYER QUANTUM HALL COHERENT STATE AND THE RESIDUAL ZERO-BIAS PEAK IN TUNNELING CONDUCTANCE
Authors: YU YUE
Published: December 2003

In the bilayer quantum Hall coherent state for νT deviating slightly from unity, we show that, instead of the global order parameter, the periodic domain structure accompanying the charged meron pairs spontaneously breaks the pseudospin U(1) rotational symmetry. The motion of meron pairs induces a novel pseudospin wave. The long-range order of the periodic domains in a low bias voltage range leads to the residual zero-bias peak in the tunneling conductance, which can be distinct from the pseudopsin Goldstone feature in a high bias voltage range.
STUDIES ON THE OXYGEN PICK-UP OF VIBRATORY DISC MILLED CAPACITOR GRADE TANTALUM POWDER
Authors: BALAJI T. , PURUSHOTHAM Y. , GOVINDAIAH R. , SHARMA M. K. , KUMAR ARBIND , PRAKASH T. L.
Published: December 2003

The oxygen concentration of tantalum powder is critical for the fabrication of solid electrolyte tantalum capacitors. In the present paper an attempt has been made to study the influence of milling time, milling speed (rotations per minute (RPM)) of the vibratory disc mill and average particle size of tantalum powder on oxygen concentrations. It was observed that milling time is directly related to the oxygen content of the powder mass. However, the rotational speed of the mill also contributes to the particle size distribution and ambience gas content of the particles.
Communication Strategies for Aligning Organizational Culture and Managing Diversity in a Knowledge-Based Economy
Authors: Lee Waipeng
Published: December 2003

Knowledge-based economy and globalization have led to changes in organizational structure (e.g. decentralization, project and matrix teams, flatter structure) and the rise of a multicultural, diverse workforce. As such, organizations are reevaluating their strategies, and one of the trends is to adopt organizational culture as a knowledge-management tool. The purpose of this paper is to lay down a persuasive communication-based model for cultivating a synergetic, multicultural work environment that allows for knowledge sharing and transfer. This model can be broken down into three components: (1) cultivation of a well-defined organizational culture; (2) development of cross-cultural skills and flexibilities; and (3) establishment of a cross-cultural mediation process. It highlights some issues and areas for consideration during assessment, planning (such as message, spokesperson, measurable objectives), implementation, and evaluation
Predicting Flexibility and Success in Information Systems Planning: A System Dynamics Approach
Authors: Palanisamy Ramaraj , Sushil
Published: December 2003

Organizations intend to achieve a high level of information systems flexibility and success. They plan information systems with multiple approaches and adopt different planning methodologies. A broad range of measurements is available in the literature to assess IS planning effectiveness and success. This study theoretically develops a causal model to assess and predict IS planning success, empirically validate the model, and simulate the empirically tested model to predict the "ends" and "means" of the IS planning. The Systems Dynamics approach is used to model and simulate the "ends" and "means" variables. The model represents the user involvement in IS planning and flexibility variables ("means") and IS success variables ("ends") in a framework. The questionnaire survey method is used to validate the model, and the survey was administered to 296 respondents from 42 organizations selected from eight different sectors. The survey results validate the existence of relationship between user involvement, flexibility, and IS success. The empirically validated model is used to predict flexibility and information systems success in the surveyed organizations.
Spatial learning in the restrained American cockroach Periplaneta americana
Authors: Kwon Hyung-Wook , Lent David D. , Strausfeld Nicholas J.
Published: December 2003

Spatial learning abilities were tested in restrained cockroaches by observing antennal projection responses towards the positions of a learned visual cue perceived monocularly by one eye in the context of a second stimulus provided to the contralateral eye. Memory of the position of the conditioning stimulus relative to the contralateral reference stimulus was tested by altering the relative positions of the two stimuli. Memory of the conditioning stimulus is retained if the angle between the conditioning stimulus and the contralateral reference stimulus is maintained. The results suggest that during learning the insect recognizes spatial relationships between the conditioning stimulus and the contralateral reference stimulus. Possible mechanisms, such as retinotopic matching versus angular matching, are discussed.
Intrinsic autoregulation of cardiac output in rainbow trout(Oncorhynchus mykiss) at different heart rates
Authors: Altimiras Jordi , Axelsson Michael
Published: December 2003

Intrinsic regulation of the heart in teleosts is partly driven by central venous pressure, which exerts a modulatory role on stroke volume according to the well-known Frank-Starling mechanism. Although this mechanism is well understood from heart perfusion studies, less is known about how this mechanism operates in vivo, where heart rate varies markedly. We used zatebradine, a bradycardic agent, to attain resting heart rates in surgically instrumented animals. A dose of zatebradine of 2.79±0.47 mg l-1 decreased heart rate by half, from 44.4±4.19 beats min-1 to 22.1±1.9 beats min-1. Zatebradine had no significant effect on the peripheral vasculature and no inotropic effects, so was a suitable pharmacological agent with which to manipulate heart rate. When heart rate halved, cardiac output dropped to 87.5±4.6% of the control value, due to the concomitant increase in stroke volume to 165±13%. In vivo recordings of venous pressure at varying heart rates indicated that the partial compensation in cardiac output was possible through an increase in pressure in the sinus venosus, from -0.06±0.04 kPa at a control heart rate of 58.3±3.5 beats min-1 (N=10)to 0.07±0.05 kPa after injection of zatebradine (4 mg kg-1). The operation of the so-called time-dependent autoregulatory mechanism was further demonstrated in perfused hearts. The positive pressures recorded in the sinus venosus at low heart rates coincident with non-invasive measurements in trout suggest that atrial filling in trout is more dependent on the build-up of pressure in the venous circulation (vis-à-tergofilling) than a suction mechanism during ventricular contraction(vis-à-fronte filling).
In vivomuscle activity in the hindlimb of the arboreal lizard,Chamaeleo calyptratus: general patterns and the effects of incline
Authors: Higham Timothy E. , Jayne Bruce C.
Published: December 2003

Arboreal animals often move on surfaces with variable and steep inclines,but the changes in hindlimb muscle activity in response to incline are poorly understood. Thus, we studied the hindlimb muscle activity in the arboreal specialist, Chamaeleo calyptratus, moving up and down 45°inclines and on a horizontal surface. We quantified electromyograms (EMGs)from nine hindlimb muscles, and correlated EMGs with three-dimensional hindlimb kinematics. Kinematics changed little with incline, but the EMGs changed substantially. Most of the changes in EMGs were for amplitude rather than timing, and the EMGs of the hip and thigh muscles had more conspicuous changes with incline than those of the lower limb muscles. Unlike most other vertebrates, chameleons flexed the knee substantially during the first half of stance while the foot was anchored to the perch, and the amplitude of two large knee flexors increased when moving uphill compared to level and downhill. Thus, knee flexion in early stance probably contributes significantly to propulsion in C. calyptratus. During stance, the caudofemoralis EMGs of C. calyptratus correlated well with femur retraction, knee flexion and posterior femur rotation, and their amplitudes were higher on uphill and level surfaces than on the downhill surface. During the second half of stance, iliotibialis EMGs correlated well with knee extension, and their amplitude was highest on the uphill surface and lowest on the downhill surface. Many of the muscles in the hindlimb of C. calyptratus changed activity with incline in a manner similar to the propulsive limb muscles in mammals. Although muscle strain often increases when animals need more power to move uphill, the minimal changes in the hindlimb kinematics of C. calyptratus with incline imply little change in muscle strain.
Partitioning of evaporative water loss in white-winged doves: plasticity in response to short-term thermal acclimation
Authors: McKechnie Andrew E. , Wolf Blair O.
Published: December 2003

We investigated changes in the relative contributions of respiratory evaporative water loss (REWL) and cutaneous evaporative water loss (CEWL) to total evaporative water loss (TEWL) in response to short-term thermal acclimation in western white-winged doves Zenaida asiatica mearnsii. We measured REWL, CEWL, oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production in a partitioned chamber using flow-through respirometry. In doves housed for 2-4 weeks in a room heated to ca. 43°C during the day, TEWL increased from 5.5±1.3 mg g-1 h-1 at an air temperature(Ta) of 35°C to 19.3±2.5 mg g-1h-1 at Ta=45°C. In doves housed at room temperature for the same period, TEWL increased from 4.6±1.1 mg g-1 h-1 at Ta=35°C to 16.1±4.6 mg g-1 h-1 at Ta=45°C. The CEWL of heat-acclimated doves increased from 3.6±1.2 mg g-1 h-1 (64% of TEWL) at 35°C to 15.0±2.1 mg g-1 h-1 (78% of TEWL) at Ta=45°C. Cool-acclimated doves exhibited more modest increases in CEWL, from 2.7±0.7 mg g-1 h-1 at Ta=35°C to 7.8±3.4 mg g-1h-1 at Ta=45°C, with the contribution of CEWL to TEWL averaging 53% over this Ta range. Cool-acclimated doves became mildly hyperthermic (body temperature Tb=42.9±0.4°C) and expended 35% more energy relative to heat-acclimated doves(Tb=41.9±0.6°C) at Ta=45°C, even though TEWL in the two groups was similar. In each of the two groups, metabolic rate did not vary with Ta, and averaged 7.1±0.5 mW g-1 in cool-acclimated doves and 6.3±0.8 mW g-1 in heat-acclimated doves. The differences in TEWL partitioning we observed between the two experimental groups resulted from a consistently lower skin water vapour diffusion resistance (rv) in the heat-acclimated doves. At Ta=45°C, rv in the cool-acclimated doves was 120±81 s cm-1, whereas rv in the heat-acclimated doves was 38±8 s cm-1. Our data reveal that in Z. a. mearnsii, TEWL partitioning varies in response to short-term thermal acclimation.
Population-based Study of Repeat Laboratory Testing
Authors: van Walraven Carl , Raymond Michael ,   for the Network of Eastern Ontario Medical Laboratories (NEO-MeL)
Published: December 2003

Background: Test repetition could be a readily modifiable component of laboratory utilization. Laboratory test repetition has not been rigorously studied at a population-based level. Our objective was to determine the prevalence of, and charges associated with, repetition of eight common laboratory tests.

Methods: We performed a cross-sectional study using high-quality, population-based clinical databases that included adults in Eastern Ontario, Canada, between September 1999 and September 2000 for incidence of repeating eight common laboratory tests (hemoglobin, sodium, creatinine, thyrotropin, total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, ferritin, and hemoglobin A1C). Tests were classified as potentially redundant if repeated within the test’s baseline testing interval. For creatinine, sodium, and hemoglobin, only tests repeated in the community were considered. For a sensitivity analysis, we varied the repeat interval by 25%, excluded tests repeated by different physicians, and excluded repeats of normal tests.

Results: Almost 4 million tests were conducted during the study year. Most tests (76%) were conducted on patients in the community. More than one-half of all people in the population had at least one laboratory test, with an overall testing rate of 367 tests per 100 people per year. Repeat testing within 1 month accounted for 30% of all utilization (109 repeat tests per 100 people per year). Repetition was more common in hospitalized patients, varied extensively among tests, and was concentrated in a limited number of people. For the eight tests included in the study, charges of potentially redundant repetition in adults totaled between $13.9 and $35.9 million (Canadian) annually.

Conclusions: Laboratory test repetition is very common, makes up a significant component of overall test utilization, and is costly.
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Isoforms in the Diagnosis of Ectopic Pregnancy
Authors: Borrelli Paola T A , Butler Stephen A , Docherty Suzanne M , Staite Edyta M , Borrelli Antonio L , Iles Ray K
Published: December 2003

Background: Early diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy uses ultrasound with serial measurements of total human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). The objective of this study was to explore the possibility that an isolated measurement of hCG isoforms/subunits rather than total hCG could be used as a single test for ectopic pregnancy.

Methods: Total and intact hCG, free hCG β- and α-subunits (hCGβ and -α), and hCG β-core fragment were measured by RIA and IRMA in the serum and urine of 76 women presenting at outpatient emergency departments with a positive pregnancy test, lower abdominal pain, and/or vaginal bleeding. Final diagnoses were based on outcomes of pregnancies and tissue histology.

Results: Twenty-seven of the 76 women were subsequently diagnosed with viable pregnancies, 37 with spontaneous miscarriage, and 12 with ectopic pregnancy. Concentrations of all forms of hCG were lower in cases of ectopic pregnancy and spontaneous miscarriage than in viable pregnancies. Serum samples gave better results than urine samples. The free hCGβ isoform (P <0.0001) had 100% sensitivity at a specificity of 79% at a 281 pmol/L (6.5 μg/L) cutoff. Total hCG (P = 0.005) had comparable ROC characteristics with a 100% sensitivity and 68% specificity at a cutoff value of 1053 pmol/L (375 IU/L). Neither hCGβ (P = 0.7) nor total hCG (P = 0.4) could distinguish ectopic pregnancies from spontaneous miscarriage.

Conclusion: Measurement of serum free hCGβ at the time of presentation can identify women with a high probability of ectopic pregnancy who may benefit from closer surveillance, reducing the risk of tubal rupture.
Assessment of Immunoreactive Synthetic Peptides from the Structural Proteins of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus
Authors: Wang Jingqiang , Wen Jie , Li Jingxiang , Yin Jianning , Zhu Qingyu , Wang Hao , Yang Yongkui , Qin E’de , You Bo , Li Wei , Li Xiaolei , Huang Shengyong , Yang Ruifu , Zhang Xumin , Yang Ling , Zhang Ting , Yin Ye , Cui Xiaodai , Tang Xiangjun , Wang Luoping , He Bo , Ma Lianhua , Lei Tingting , Zeng Changqing , Fang Jianqiu , Yu Jun , Wang Jian , Yang Huanming , West Matthew B , Bhatnagar Aruni , Lu Youyong , Xu Ningzhi , Liu Siqi
Published: December 2003

Background: The widespread threat of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) to human life has spawned challenges to develop fast and accurate analytical methods for its early diagnosis and to create a safe antiviral vaccine for preventive use. Consequently, we thoroughly investigated the immunoreactivities with patient sera of a series of synthesized peptides from SARS-coronavirus structural proteins.

Methods: We synthesized 41 peptides ranging in size from 16 to 25 amino acid residues of relatively high hydrophilicity. The immunoreactivities of the peptides with SARS patient sera were determined by ELISA.

Results: Four epitopic sites, S599, M137, N66, and N371-404, located in the SARS-coronavirus S, M, and N proteins, respectively, were detected by screening synthesized peptides. Notably, N371 and N385, located at the COOH terminus of the N protein, inhibited binding of antibodies to SARS-coronavirus lysate and bound to antibodies in >94% of samples from SARS study patients. N385 had the highest affinity for forming peptide-antibody complexes with SARS serum.

Conclusions: Five peptides from SARS structural proteins, especially two from the COOH terminus of the N protein, appear to be highly immunogenic and may be useful for serologic assays. The identification of these antigenic peptides contributes to the understanding of the immunogenicity and persistence of SARS coronavirus.
Recognizing and Responding to a Suicide Crisis
Authors: Hendin Herbert , Maltsberger John T. , Lipschitz Alan , Haas Ann Pollinger , Kyle Jennifer
Published: December 2003

Data from therapists who were treating 26 patients when they committed suicide were utilized to identify signs that warned of a suicide crisis. Three factors were identified as markers of the suicide crisis: a precipitating event; one or more intense affective states other than depression; and at least one of three behavioral patterns: speech or actions suggesting suicide, deterioration in social or occupational functioning, and increased substance abuse. Problems in communication between patient and therapist were identified as factors interfering with crisis recognition. Evaluation of the identified affects and behaviors may help therapists recognize a suicide crisis.
Toward an Integrative Model of Suicide Attempt: A Cognitive Psychological Approach
Authors: Dieserud Gudrun , Røysamb Espen , Ekeberg Øivind , Kraft Pål
Published: December 2003

Applying a cognitive approach, the purpose of the present study was to expand previous research on stress‐vulnerability models of depression and problem‐solving deficits, as it relates to suicide attempt. Structural equation modelling, involving latent variables, was used to evaluate (a) whether low self‐esteem, a low sense of self‐efficacy, loneliness, and divorce constituted vulnerability factors for the development of depression; (b) whether hopelessness and suicidal ideation mediated the relationship between depression and suicide attempt; and (c) whether problem‐solving deficits mediated the relationship between the vulnerability factors and suicide attempt, separate from depression/hopelessness. A total of 123 individuals, aged 18–75 years, participated in the study (72 suicide attempters and 51 psychiatric outpatients with no history of suicidal behavior). The results indicated a two path model of suicide attempt. The first path began with low self‐esteem, loneliness, and separation or divorce, which advanced to depression, and was further mediated by hopelessness and suicidal ideation which led to suicide attempt. The second path developed from low self‐esteem and a low sense of self‐efficacy and advanced to suicide attempt, mediated by a negative appraisal of one's own problem‐solving capacity, and poor interpersonal problem‐solving skills. The importance of addressing both depression/hopelessness, and problem‐solving deficits when working with suicide attempters is noted.
Childhood Trauma and Suicidal Behavior in Male Cocaine Dependent Patients
Authors: Roy Alec
Published: December 2003

A consecutive series of 100 male cocaine dependent patients were interviewed about suicidal behavior and completed the 34‐item Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ) to determine whether childhood trauma is associated with suicidal behavior in cocaine dependent men. Patients who had attempted suicide (n = 34) reported significantly higher scores for childhood emotional abuse, physical abuse, sexual abuse, and emotional and physical neglect than patients who had never attempted suicide (n = 66). In this study, various childhood traumas were found to be significantly associated with suicidal behavior among adult male cocaine dependent patients.
Regulate Artificial Intelligence in Health Care by Prioritizing Patient Outcomes
Authors: Ayers John W. , Desai Nimit , Smith Davey M.
Published: January 2024

This Viewpoint argues for a shift in focus by the White House executive order on artificial intelligence from regulatory targets to patient outcomes.
RETRACTED: Efficacy of Electronic Cigarettes vs Varenicline and Nicotine Chewing Gum as an Aid to Stop Smoking
Authors: Lin Hao-Xiang , Liu Zhao , Hajek Peter , Zhang Wan-Tong , Wu Yuan , Zhu Bao-Chen , Liu Hai-Hua , Xiang Qiu , Zhang Yan , Li Shu-Bin , Pesola Francesca , Wang Ying-Ying
Published: January 2024

Importance

Electronic cigarettes (ECs) are often used by smokers as an aid to stopping smoking, but evidence is limited regarding their efficacy compared with nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), and no evidence is available on how their efficacy compares with that of varenicline.

Objective

To evaluate whether ECs are superior to NRT and noninferior to varenicline in helping smokers quit.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This was a randomized clinical trial conducted at 7 sites in China and including participants who were smoking at least 10 cigarettes per day and motivated to quit, not using stop-smoking medications or EC, and willing to use any of the study products. Participants were first recruited in May 2021, and data analysis was conducted in December 2022.

Interventions

A cartridge-based EC (30 mg/mL nicotine salt for 2 weeks and 50 mg/mL after that), varenicline (0.5 mg, once a day for 3 days; 0.5 mg, twice a day for 4 days; and 1 mg, twice a day, after that), and 2 mg (for smokers of ≤20 cigarettes per day) or 4 mg (>20 cigarettes per day) nicotine chewing gum, all provided for 12 weeks and accompanied by minimal behavioral support (an invitation to join a self-help internet forum).

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was sustained abstinence from smoking at 6 months as validated by an expired-air carbon monoxide reading (<8 parts per million). Participants lost to follow-up were included as nonabstainers.

Results

Of 1068 participants, 357 (33.5%) were female, and the mean (SD) age was 33.9 (3.1) years. A total of 409 (38.3%), 409 (38.3%), and 250 (23.4%) participants were randomized to the EC, varenicline, and NRT arms, respectively. The 6-month biochemically validated abstinence rates were 15.7% (n = 64), 14.2% (n = 58), and 8.8% (n = 22) in the EC, varenicline, and NRT study arms, respectively. The quit rate in the EC arm was noninferior to the varenicline arm (absolute risk reduction, 1.47%; 95% CI, −1.41% to 4.34%) and higher than in the NRT arm (odds ratio, 1.92; 95% CI, 1.15-3.21). Treatment adherence was similar in all study arms during the initial 3 months, but 257 participants (62.8%) in the EC arm were still using ECs at 6 months, with no further use in the 2 other study arms. The most common adverse reactions were throat irritation (32 [7.8%]) and mouth irritation (28 [6.9%]) in the EC arm, nausea (36 [8.8%]) in the varenicline arm, and throat irritation (20 [8.0%]) and mouth irritation (22 [8.8%]) in the NRT arm. No serious adverse events were recorded.

Conclusions and Relevance

The results of this randomized clinical trial found that when all treatments were provided with minimal behavior support, the efficacy of EC was noninferior to varenicline and superior to nicotine chewing gum.

Trial Registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR2100048156
Wealth Redistribution to Extend Longevity in the US
Authors: Himmelstein Kathryn E. W. , Tsai Alexander C. , Venkataramani Atheendar S.
Published: January 2024

Importance

The US is unique among wealthy countries in its degree of wealth inequality and its poor health outcomes. Wealth is known to be positively associated with longevity, but little is known about whether wealth redistribution might extend longevity.

Objective

To examine the association between wealth and longevity and estimate the changes in longevity that could occur with simulated wealth distributions that were perfectly equal, similar to that observed in Japan (among the most equitable of Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development [OECD] countries), generated by minimum inheritance proposals, and produced by baby bonds proposals.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This longitudinal cohort study analyzed the association between wealth and survival among participants in the Health and Retirement Study (1992-2018), a nationally representative panel study of middle-aged and older (≥50 years) community-dwelling, noninstitutionalized US adults. The data analysis was performed between November 15, 2022, and September 24, 2023.

Exposure

Household wealth on study entry, calculated as the sum of all assets minus the value of debts and classified into deciles.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Weibull survival models were used to estimate the association between per-person wealth decile and survival, adjusting for age, sex, marital status, household size, and race and ethnicity. Changes in longevity that might occur under alternative wealth distributions were then estimated.

Results

The sample included 35 164 participants (mean [SE] age at study entry, 59.1 [0.1] years; 50.1% female and 49.9% male [weighted]). The hazard of death generally decreased with increasing wealth, wherein participants in the highest wealth decile had a hazard ratio of 0.59 for death (95% CI, 0.53-0.66) compared with those in the lowest decile, corresponding to a 13.5-year difference in survival. A simulated wealth distribution of perfect equality would increase populationwide median longevity by 2.2 years (95% CI, 2.2-2.3 years), fully closing the mortality gap between the US and the OECD average. A simulated minimum inheritance proposal would increase populationwide median longevity by 1.7 years; a simulated wealth distribution similar to Japan’s would increase populationwide median longevity by 1.2 years; and a simulated baby bonds proposal would increase populationwide median longevity by 1.0 year.

Conclusions and Relevance

These findings suggest that wealth inequality in the US is associated with significant inequities in survival. Wealth redistribution policies may substantially reduce those inequities and increase population longevity.
Ketamine Compared With Morphine for Out-of-Hospital Analgesia for Patients With Traumatic Pain
Authors: Le Cornec Clément , Le Pottier Marion , Broch Hélène , Marguinaud Tixier Alexandre , Rousseau Emmanuel , Laribi Said , Janière Charles , Brenckmann Vivien , Guillerm Anne , Deciron Florence , Kabbaj Amine , Jenvrin Joël , Péré Morgane , Montassier Emmanuel
Published: January 2024

Importance

Pain is a common out-of-hospital symptom among patients, and opioids are often prescribed. Research suggests that overprescribing for acute traumatic pain is still prevalent, even when limits restricting opioid prescriptions have been implemented. Ketamine hydrochloride is an alternative to opioids in adults with out-of-hospital traumatic pain.

Objective

To assess the noninferiority of intravenous ketamine compared with intravenous morphine sulfate to provide pain relief in adults with out-of-hospital traumatic pain.

Design, Setting, and Participants

The Intravenous Subdissociative-Dose Ketamine Versus Morphine for Prehospital Analgesia (KETAMORPH) study was a multicenter, single-blind, noninferiority randomized clinical trial comparing ketamine hydrochloride (20 mg, followed by 10 mg every 5 minutes) with morphine sulfate (2 or 3 mg every 5 minutes) in adult patients with out-of-hospital trauma and a verbal pain score equal to or greater than 5. Enrollment occurred from November 23, 2017, to November 26, 2022, in 11 French out-of-hospital emergency medical units.

Interventions

Patients were randomly assigned to ketamine (n = 128) or morphine (n = 123).

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was the between-group difference in mean change in verbal rating scale pain scores measured from the time before administration of the study drug to 30 minutes later. A noninferiority margin of 1.3 was chosen.

Results

A total of 251 patients were randomized (median age, 51 [IQR, 34-69] years; 111 women [44.9%] and 140 men [55.1%] among the 247 with data available) and were included in the intention-to-treat population. The mean pain score change was −3.7 (95% CI, −4.2 to −3.2) in the ketamine group compared with −3.8 (95% CI, −4.2 to −3.4) in the morphine group. The difference in mean pain score change was 0.1 (95% CI, −0.7 to 0.9) points. There were no clinically meaningful differences for vital signs between the 2 groups. The intravenous morphine group had 19 of 113 (16.8% [95% CI, 10.4%-25.0%]) adverse effects reported (most commonly nausea [12 of 113 (10.6%)]) compared with 49 of 120 (40.8% [95% CI, 32.0%-49.6%]) in the ketamine group (most commonly emergence phenomenon [24 of 120 (20.0%)]). No adverse events required intervention.

Conclusions and Relevance

In the KETAMORPH study of patients with out-of-hospital traumatic pain, the use of intravenous ketamine compared with morphine showed noninferiority for pain reduction. In the ongoing opioid crisis, ketamine administered alone is an alternative to opioids in adults with out-of-hospital traumatic pain.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03236805
Modeling of 3D Brick‐and‐Mortar Structures Using Cohesive Zone Finite Elements
Authors: Hunter Georgia , Djumas Lee , Brassart Laurence , Molotnikov Andrey
Published: January 2024

Nacre‐inspired brick‐and‐Mortar composite structures exhibit exceptional combinations of properties as well as a highly tuneable mechanical response, due to their large range of design parameters. Understanding the effect of these parameters on the response is essential to optimally design these structures and can be guided by modeling. Traditional models only consider 2D geometries and limited attempts at modeling 3D geometric designs exist. Herein, 3D brick‐and‐mortar structures using a finite element in conjunction with an experimentally calibrated cohesive zone model to represent the layers are proposed. The model is successfully validated against experimental results for a nonplanar brick assembly using so‐called osteomorphic bricks. The capabilities of the model are further demonstrated through a parametric study, where the effect of brick shape, number of bricks, and soft layer material properties on the structure mechanical properties (elastic modulus, yield strength and toughness) are investigated. Numerical results show that toughness is significantly increased by transitioning from a “two‐peak” failure mechanism to a “peak‐plateau‐peak,” which is controlled by the brick shape. It is also shown that 3D structures may exhibit significant out‐of‐plane deformation involving the cooperative motion of many bricks, which may contribute to their improved toughness compared to 2D structures.
Recent Progress in Hard Carbon Anodes for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Jiarui , Xi Lei , Peng Chenxi , Song Xin , Wan Xuanhong , Sun Luyi , Liu Meinan , Liu Jun
Published: January 2024

With the rapid development of renewable energy and the growth of energy demand, sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) have attracted much attention from researchers as a promising energy storage technology. Hard carbon anodes are considered to be the most promising anodes of SIBs because of their low sodium storage potential, high capacity, wide range of raw materials, and environmental friendliness. However, the rate capability and initial coulombic efficiency of hard carbon hinder the further commercialization of hard carbon. This review provides a concise overview of the three microstructures and four sodium storage mechanisms of hard carbon and comprehensively introduces the latest research progress on strategies to effectively improve the electrochemical performance of hard carbon anodes, which are categorized into structural and morphology design, precursors selection, electrolyte optimization, surface engineering, and pre‐sodiation as modification strategies. In addition, the current research progress on sodium‐ion full batteries is also encapsulated and the developmental prospects of hard carbon anodes in SIBs is looked forward to.
Peptide Amphiphile‐Mediated Assembly and Fusion of Anisotropic Amorphous Particles for Enamel Remineralization
Authors: Tang Zhenhang , Chen Zhuo , Wang Dayu , Shan Songzhe , Jin Wenjing , Sun Kaida , Pan Haihua , Xie Zhijian , Tang Ruikang , Shao Changyu
Published: January 2024

Enamel remineralization, which attempts to generate a mineral layer structurally similar to native enamel and restore its mechanical properties, remains a significant challenge. Here, rationally designed peptide amphiphile (PA) molecules bind to amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) particles via electrostatic interactions, imparting anisotropic properties that drive PA‐modified ACP to form spindle‐shaped aggregates. Furthermore, some residual PA molecules may further regulate crystallization and facilitate the formation of well‐aligned hydroxyapatite bundles. Additionally, the involvement of PA can mediate the ordered deposition and fusion of ACP on the enamel surface, and construct the crystalline‐amorphous mineralization front with a continuous structure. This mineralization front ensures epitaxially oriented growth of enamel crystals and achieves a structurally ordered mineral layer similar to that of native enamel, while the mechanical performance is effectively restored. More significantly, the thickness of the newly formed mineral layer can be augmented through cyclic remineralization, benefitting the design of products intended for practical enamel repair.
Enzyme‐Photodynamic Adaptive Bionic Periosteum for Bone Revitalization
Authors: Chen Yazhou , Jin Xiaoqiang , Lu Jinwei , Li Sihao , Li Congsun , Yu Chao , Jiang Guangyao , Ji Xiaoxiao , Yao Minjun , Xiang Zhihui , Yan Shigui , Yan Ruijian , Yu Xiaohua , Li Fangcai
Published: January 2024

The lack of periosteum in bone allografts is considered a major cause of bone graft failure; however, the currently used artificial periosteum has failed to proactively adapt to its chronological role in the repair process. This study designed an adaptive periosteal system with dual‐response mechanisms to enable interactive angiogenic/osteogenic stimulation customized for inflammatory and anabolic stages of bone healing. Utilizing the enzymatic reactions and photodynamic properties of gold nanorod‐porous silicon, angiogenic peptides (QK) are released in response to matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP‐2), whereas bone‐forming peptides (BFP) are triggered by timed near‐infrared (NIR) irradiation, providing a portfolio of growth factors that match the dynamics of bone healing. The incorporation of such nanocarriers into a poly(N‐isopropyl acrylamide)/methacrylic acid gel (PNIPAM/GelMA) successfully formed a bionic periosteum that actively adapted to the function of the periosteum in different scenarios, resulting in more than doubled its ability to promote angiogenesis, stem cell migration, and osteogenesis compared to the controls. Furthermore, over 80% of the defects are covered with a new scab after the timed near‐infrared irradiation of large bone defects implanted with the system. The bionic periosteum actively mimicked the role of the periosteum in bone healing and offered a novel selection strategy for adaptability.
Mass Transfer System of a Large Number of Small Objects Based on Conjunction of Triboelectric Nanogenerators and Photo‐Responsive Interface
Authors: Dong Xuanyi , Yang Peng , Liu Zhaoqi , Tao Xinglin , Qin Siyao , Hu Jun , Chu Xiangcheng , Wang Zhong Lin , Chen Xiangyu
Published: January 2024

Mass transfer technology for large quantities of tiny substances, such as electronic chips and drug particles, plays a crucial role in many industries. This study proposes a transferring system for large quantities of small objects based on the synergism of triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) and photo‐responsive dielectric materials. TENG device can provide an output voltage of over 8 kV within a rotation time of 40 ms and the titanium oxide phthalocyanine (TiOPc) photoconductive films are fabricated as the photo‐responsive interface, in order to match the output impedance of TENG. The transfer system enables a maximum adsorption load of 98 mg mm−2, which is enough for handling all common electronics chips/wafers. Under the stimulation of laser light, the conductivity of the TiOPc interface can be increased by two orders of magnitude within 1 ms, which leads to the vanish of the surface potential on the laser spot and the release of patterned or pointed object. This photo‐responsive strategy can achieve both large quantity transfer of tiny objects and highly selective release of the element at designed position. This collaborative mechanism of electrostatic force and photoconductivity provides a different approach for realizing efficient and precise Mass transfer system of semiconductor and chip industry.
Energy Density Boosted Vanadium Colloid Flow Batteries Realized by a Reversible Nanoparticle Suspension‐Dissolution Strategy
Authors: Wei Jie , Sun Jingjie , Zhang Pengbo , Liu Yuzhu , Dai Tengfei , Sun Lin , Tie Zuoxiu , Jin Zhong
Published: January 2024

Vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs) hold great promise for large‐scale energy storage, but their performance requires further improvement. Herein, a design is proposed for vanadium colloid flow batteries (VCFBs) that integrates the redox chemistry of polyvalent vanadium‐based colloid suspensions with dispersed conductive agents into traditional vanadium electrolytes. The redox‐active colloids combine the advantages of nanoparticle suspensions and dissolved electrolytes, exhibiting good dispersibility, fluidity, conductivity, redox reversibility, and electrochemical kinetics. By leveraging a reversible dissolution/suspension process of high‐concentration vanadium‐based colloids, the VCFBs achieved an energy density of 48 Wh L−1, nearly double that of conventional VRFBs. This work presents a rational design for homologous active material colloids to enhance the energy density of aqueous redox flow batteries, thereby advancing the potential for grid‐scale and renewable energy storage.
Reversed Yolk–Shell Dielectric Scatterers for Advanced Radiative Cooling
Authors: Li Pengli , Liu Yijie , Liu Xiangyu , Wang Ao , Liu Wenjie , Yi Naiqin , Kang Qi , He Meng , Pei Zhantao , Chen Jie , Jiang Pingkai , Li Wei , Bao Hua , Huang Xingyi
Published: January 2024

Passive daytime radiative cooling dissipates heat from surfaces by reflecting sunlight and emitting infrared radiation to the cold outer space, featuring a zero‐energy consumption. Polymer‐dielectric radiative cooling coatings have received significant attention because of their scalable preparation, low cost, and ease of use. However, current dielectric scatterers reveal limited solar reflectance in the polymer‐dielectric coatings due to the optical crowding, which reduces cooling effect and hinders practical application. Employing a scalable emulsion templated method, reversed yolk–shell dielectric scatterers (RYSS) are developed to alleviate optical crowding effects in polymer‐dielectric coatings. This results in coatings with a solar reflectance of ≈97.4% and an infrared emittance of ≈96.9%, while achieving a substantial reduction in scatterers content. Besides, simulation results show that RYSS outperforms core–shell, hollow, and solid scatterers in enhancing solar reflectance. Using phase change materials as emulsion templates, RYSS with high heat storage effectively enhance daytime cooling and reduce nighttime over‐cooling. Moreover, cooling experiments on concentrating photovoltaics demonstrate a temperature drop of 42 °C (≈26.2 times extension of lifetime) and a notable 22% increase in open‐circuit voltage. This work suggests that RYSS presents a promising solution to overcome the challenges of radiative cooling materials and pave the way for their practical applications.
Atomically Dispersed Gold Nanoclusters and Single Atoms Coexisting Chiral Electrode for High‐Performance Enantioselective Electrosynthesis using H2o as Hydrogen Source
Authors: Chang Wen , Qi Bo , Wang Ruoyu , Liu Huijie , Chen Guangbo , Hu Guicong , Li Zixian , Sun Jie , Peng Yung‐Kang , Li Guangchao , Kong Xianggui , Song Yu‐Fei , Zhao Yufei
Published: January 2024

Developing chiral electrode catalysts for enantioselective electrosynthesis is a great challenge, as it requires catalysts that possess both high activity and enantioselectivity. Precise synthesis of nanoclusters and single atoms coexisting chiral catalysts provide a promising pathway for enhancing asymmetric catalytic performance. Herein, chiral electrode catalysts are fabricated comprising gold clusters (R‐AuC) and single atoms (R‐AuS) on graphene oxide (R‐AuC/S@GO) through an assembly‐irradiation strategy. Thereinto, the R‐Aus is in situ generated from R‐AuC under light irradiation. The monoatomization process can be precisely regulated by changing the wavelength of the light, resulting in four Au‐based chiral electrode (R‐Au@GO) catalysts with different ratios of nanoclusters and single atoms. These chiral electrodes are applied in the electrocatalytic enantioselective hydrogenation of methyl benzoylformate (MB) to chiral methyl mandelate (S‐MM), and the R‐AuC/S‐2@GO with ≈26% R‐AuC and 74% R‐AuS achieve the highest catalytic activity (35 µmol cm−2 h−1 productivity) and enantioselectivity [97% enantiomeric excess (ee)]. Detailed experimental analysis and density functional theory calculations reveal that the R‐AuS on GO promotes the in situ generation of H* species, and R‐AuC mainly drives the enantioselective conversion of MB by transferring the H* species to the carbonyl group of MB, ultimately yielding chiral S‐MM.
Rational Design of Near‐Infrared Polymer Acceptors Using Steric Hindrance Strategy for High‐Performance Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Li Xiaoming , Chen Lingyu , Meng Lingxian , Zhang Chen , Duan Xiaopeng , Man Yuheng , Jee Min Hun , Han Lili , Pan Yiyang , Wei Donghui , Wan Xiangjian , Woo Han Young , Chen Yongsheng , Sun Yanming
Published: January 2024

The unprecedented development of all‐polymer solar cells (all‐PSCs) is hindered by their low short‐circuit current density (Jsc), mainly due to the absence of near‐infrared (NIR) polymer acceptor materials. To tackle this challenge, a molecular design principle is proposed, which involves the regulation of steric hindrance on the fused‐ring backbone to obtain NIR polymer acceptors. Accordingly, three acceptors named PTz‐Ph, PTz‐Me, and PTz‐H are synthesized by substituting the Phenyl, Methyl, and Hydrogen in the beta position of the thiophene unit based on fused‐ring molecules. Different from the necessity of steric hindrance of small molecule acceptors in achieving an outstanding performance, polymer acceptor PTz‐H without steric hindrance‐substitution achieves a record‐high efficiency for the benzotriazole‐based all‐PSCs. Then, introducing PTz‐H into the binary PBDB‐T:PTz‐BO system, the ternary all‐PSC exhibits a splendid efficiency of 18.16%, which has surpassed the efficiencies of most benzo[c][1,2,5]thiadiazole‐based counterparts. In addition, an organic tandem solar cell is successfully fabricated, which exhibits a high efficiency of 17.49%. This work provides an effective and readily accessible design strategy for designing high‐performance NIR polymer acceptors, showing the great potential for future organic photovoltaic applications.
Design of a Dual‐Band Waveform‐Selective Metasurface Absorber Based on the Combination of Two Resonator Structures Loaded with Nonlinear Circuits
Authors: Qian Yingjie , Cheng Yongzhi , Luo Hui , Chen Fu , Fathnan Ashif Aminulloh , Wakatsuchi Hiroki
Published: January 2024

In this paper, a design scheme for a dual‐band waveform‐selective metasurface absorber (MSA) is presented based on the combination of two metal resonator structures loaded with nonlinear circuits. Dual‐band MSAs with four different configurations are constructed by loading capacitor/inductor‐based nonlinear circuits into the gaps of two square‐patch (SP) and two square‐ring (SR) resonators, all of which can achieve selective absorption of short pulses and continuous waves (CWs) at two frequencies independently. As a typical example, the dual‐band MSA with the SP resonator loaded with the inductor‐based nonlinear circuit and the SR resonator loaded with the capacitor‐based nonlinear circuit is systematically studied. First, the selective absorption performance of the dual‐band MSA for CWs and pulses under different input powers is demonstrated. Second, the selective absorption properties of the dual‐band MSA for pulses with different pulse widths are studied. Third, the waveform‐selective absorption characteristics of the dual‐band MSA for oblique TE and TM waves are also illustrated. Finally, the influence of circuit component parameters on the selective absorption properties of pulses and CWs is systematically studied. The proposed dual‐band MSAs have potential application areas such as antenna design, wireless communications, and electromagnetic compatibility.