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Abstract Harnessing electronic excitations involving coherent coupling to bosonic modes is essential for the design and control of emergent phenomena in quantum materials. In situations where charge carriers induce a lattice distortion due to the electron-phonon interaction, the conducting states get “dressed", which leads to the formation of polaronic quasiparticles. The exploration of polaronic effects on low-energy excitations is in its infancy in two-dimensional materials. Here, we present the discovery of an interlayer plasmon polaron in heterostructures composed of graphene on top of single-layer WS2. By using micro-focused angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy during in situ doping of the top graphene layer, we observe a strong quasiparticle peak accompanied by several carrier density-dependent shake-off replicas around the single-layer WS2 conduction band minimum. Our results are explained by an effective many-body model in terms of a coupling between single-layer WS2 conduction electrons and an interlayer plasmon mode. It is important to take into account the presence of such interlayer collective modes, as they have profound consequences for the electronic and optical properties of heterostructures that are routinely explored in many device architectures involving 2D transition metal dichalcogenides.

Abstract Graphene oxide (GO) is the one of the most promising family of materials as atomically thin membranes for water-related molecular separation technologies due to its amphipathic nature and layered structure. Here, we show important aspects of GO on water adsorption from molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, in-situ X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements, and ex-situ nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) measurements. Although the MD simulations for GO and the reduced GO models revealed that the flexibility of the interlayer spacing could be attributed to the oxygen-functional groups of GO, the ultra-large GO model cannot well explain the observed swelling of GO from XRD experiments. Our MD simulations propose a realistic GO interlayer structure constructed by staggered stacking of flexible GO sheets, which can explain very well the swelling nature upon water adsorption. The transmission electron microscopic (TEM) observation also supports the non-regular staggered stacking structure of GO. Furthermore, we demonstrate the existence of the two distinct types of adsorbed water molecules in the staggered stacking: water bonded with hydrophilic functional groups and “free” mobile water. Finally, we show that the staggered stacking of GO plays a crucial role in H/D isotopic recognition in water adsorption, as well as the high mobility of water molecules.

Introduction: Older adults racialized as Black experience higher rates of dementia than those racialized as White. Structural racism produces socioeconomic challenges, described by artist Marvin Gaye as ?hang ups, let downs, bad breaks, setbacks? that likely contribute to dementia disparities. Robust dementia literature suggests socioeconomic factors may also be key resiliencies. Methods: We linked state-level data reflecting the racialized landscape of economic opportunity across the 20th Century from the U.S. Census (1930?2010) with individual-level data on cognitive outcomes from the U.S. Health and Retirement Study participants racialized as Black. A purposive sample of participants born after the Brown v. Board ruling (born 1954?59) were selected who completed the modified Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status between 2010 and 2020 (N=1381). We tested associations of exposure to structural racism and resilience before birth, and during childhood, young-adulthood, and midlife with cognitive trajectories in mid-late life using mixed-effects regression models. Results: Older adults born in places with higher state-level structural socioeconomic racism experienced a more rapid cognitive decline in later life compared to those with lower levels of exposure. In addition, participants born in places with higher levels of state-level structural socioeconomic resilience experienced slower cognitive change over time than their counterparts. Discussion: These findings reveal the impact of racist U.S. policies enacted in the past that influence cognitive health over time and dementia risk later in life.

Bacteria are capable of remarkable adaptations to their environment, including undesirable bacterial resistance to antibacterial agents. One of the most serious cases is an infection caused by multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, which has unfortunately also spread outside hospitals. Therefore, the development of new effective antibacterial agents is extremely important to solve the increasing problem of bacterial resistance. The bacteriolytic enzyme autolysin E (AtlE) is a promising new drug target as it plays a key role in the degradation of peptidoglycan in the bacterial cell wall. Consequently, disruption of function can have an immense impact on bacterial growth and survival. An in silico and in vitro evaluation of iminosugar derivatives as potent inhibitors of S. aureus (AtlE) was performed. Three promising hit compounds (1, 3 and 8) were identified as AtlE binders in the micromolar range as measured by surface plasmon resonance. The most potent compound among the SPR response curve hits was 1, with a KD of 19 μM. The KD value for compound 8 was 88 μM, while compound 3 had a KD value of 410 μM.

Abstract Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRDs) and age‐related hearing loss are the intersection of two major public health challenges. With age as the primary risk factor for both disease processes, the burden of ADRDs and age‐related hearing loss is growing, and each field maintains significant barriers to broadscale identification and management that is affordable and accessible. With the disproportionate burden of ADRDs among racial and ethnic minority older adults and existing disparities within hearing care, both areas face challenges in achieving equitable access and outcomes across diverse populations. The publication of the Aging and Cognitive Health Evaluation in Elders (ACHIEVE) trial in July 2023 marked a significant moment in the fields of brain and hearing health. The ACHIEVE trial was the first randomized controlled trial to examine whether providing hearing intervention, specifically provision of hearing aids, compared to an education control, would reduce cognitive changes over 3 years. The participants most at risk for cognitive decline, with lower education, lower income, more likely to identify as Black, and have more cardiovascular risk factors, were the participants who benefited most from the hearing intervention and are also the least likely to be represented in research and the least likely to obtain hearing care. With growing evidence of the interconnection between cognitive and sensory health, we have an opportunity to prioritize equity, from purposeful inclusion of diverse participants in trials to influencing the emerging market of over‐the‐counter hearing aids to supporting expanded models of hearing care that reach those who have traditionally gone unserved. No longer can hearing go unrecognized by clinicians, researchers, and advocates for brain health. At the same time, the fields of brain and hearing health must center equity if we are going to meet the needs of diverse older adults in a world in which hearing health matters.

Background Although racial disparities in lung cancer incidence and mortality have diminished in recent years, lung cancer remains the second most diagnosed cancer among US Black populations. Many factors contributing to disparities in lung cancer are rooted in structural racism. To quantify this relationship, we examined associations between a multidimensional measure of county-level structural racism and county lung cancer incidence and mortality rates among Black populations, while accounting for county levels of environmental quality. Methods We merged 2016-2020 data from the United States Cancer Statistics Data Visualization Tool, a pre-existing county-level structural racism index, the Environmental Protection Agency’s 2006-2010 Environmental Quality Index (EQI), 2023 County Health Rankings, and the 2021 United States Census American Community Survey. We conducted multivariable linear regressions to examine associations between county-level structural racism and county-level lung cancer incidence and mortality rates. Results Among Black males and females, each standard deviation increase in county-level structural racism score was associated with an increase in county-level lung cancer incidence of 6.4 (95% CI: 4.4, 8.5) cases per 100,000 and an increase of 3.3 (95% CI: 2.0, 4.6) lung cancer deaths per 100,000. When examining these associations stratified by sex, larger associations between structural racism and lung cancer rates were observed among Black male populations than among Black females. Conclusion Structural racism contributes to both the number of new lung cancer cases and the number of deaths caused by lung cancer among Black populations. Those aiming to reduce lung cancer cases and deaths should consider addressing racism as a root-cause.

Background Black-White racial disparities in cancer mortality are well-documented in the US. Given the estimated shortage of oncologists over the next decade, understanding how access to oncology care might influence cancer disparities is of considerable importance. We aim to examine the association between oncology provider density in a county and Black-White cancer mortality disparities. Methods An ecological study of 1048 US counties was performed. Oncology provider density was estimated using the 2013 National Plan and Provider Enumeration System data. Black:White cancer mortality ratio was calculated using 2014-2018 age-standardized cancer mortality rates from State Cancer Profiles. Linear regression with covariate adjustment was constructed to assess the association of provider density with (1) Black:White cancer mortality ratio, and (2) cancer mortality rates overall, and separately among Black and White persons. Results The mean Black:White cancer mortality ratio was 1.12, indicating that cancer mortality rate among Black persons was on average 12% higher than that among White persons. Oncology provider density was significantly associated with greater cancer mortality disparities: every 5 additional oncology providers per 100 000 in a county was associated with a .02 increase in the Black:White cancer mortality ratio (95% CI: .007 to .03); however, the unexpected finding may be explained by further analysis showing that the relationship between oncology provider density and cancer mortality was different by race group. Every 5 additional oncologists per 100 000 was associated with a 1.6 decrease per 100 000 in cancer mortality rates among White persons (95% CI: −3.0 to −.2), whereas oncology provider density was not associated with cancer mortality among Black persons. Conclusion Greater oncology provider density was associated with significantly lower cancer mortality among White persons, but not among Black persons. Higher oncology provider density alone may not resolve cancer mortality disparities, thus attention to ensuring equitable care is critical.

Abstract Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) continues to be a leading cause of death in the US. As the US aging population (ages 65 +) expands, the impact will disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, e.g., Hispanic/Latino population, due to their AD-related health disparities. Age-related regression in mitochondrial activity and ethnic-specific differences in metabolic burden could potentially explain in part the racial/ethnic distinctions in etiology that exist for AD. Oxidation of guanine (G) to 8-oxo-guanine (8oxoG) is a prevalent lesion and an indicator of oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. Damaged mtDNA (8oxoG) can serve as an important marker of age-related systemic metabolic dysfunction and upon release into peripheral circulation may exacerbate pathophysiology contributing to AD development and/or progression. Analyzing blood samples from Mexican American (MA) and non-Hispanic White (NHW) participants enrolled in the Texas Alzheimer’s Research & Care Consortium, we used blood-based measurements of 8oxoG from both buffy coat PBMCs and plasma to determine associations with population, sex, type-2 diabetes, and AD risk. Our results show that 8oxoG levels in both buffy coat and plasma were significantly associated with population, sex, years of education, and reveal a potential association with AD. Furthermore, MAs are significantly burdened by mtDNA oxidative damage in both blood fractions, which may contribute to their metabolic vulnerability to developing AD.

Maternal separation with early weaning (MSEW) is a popular early life stress (ELS) model in rodents, which emulates childhood neglect through scheduled mother-offspring separation. Although variations of ELS models, including maternal separation and MSEW, have been published for the mouse species, the reported results are inconsistent. Corticosterone is considered the main stress hormone involved in regulating stress responses in rodents—yet generating a robust and reproducible corticosterone response in mouse models of ELS has been elusive. Considering the current lack of standardization for MSEW protocols, these inconsistent results may be attributed to variations in model methodologies. Here, we compared the effects of select early wean diet sources—which are the non-milk diets used to complete early weaning in MSEW pups—on the immediate stress phenotype of C57BL/6J mice at postnatal day 21. Non-aversive handling was an integral component of our modified MSEW model. The evaluation of body weight and serum corticosterone revealed the early wean diet to be a key variable in the resulting stress phenotype. Interestingly, select non-milk diets facilitated a stress phenotype in which low body weight was accompanied by significant corticosterone elevation. Our data indicate that dietary considerations are critical in MSEW-based studies and provide insight into improving the reproducibility of key stress-associated outcomes as a function of this widely used ELS paradigm.

The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate and compare bioavailability and safety of two Vitamin D3 formulations (softgels) in healthy adults, at single daily doses of 1000 and 2500 IU, over a 60-day period. A total of 69 participants were initially screened for eligibility in a double-blind randomized study with a four-arm parallel design; 35 participants were randomized to treatment groups: (1) standard Vitamin D3 1000 IU (STD1000), (2) micellar Vitamin D3 1000 IU (LMD1000), (3) standard Vitamin D3 2500 IU (STD2500), and (4) micellar Vitamin D3 2500 IU (LMD2500). Serum Vitamin D concentrations were determined through calcifediol [25(OH)D] at baseline (=before treatment), at day 5, 10, and 15 (=during treatment), at day 30 (=end of treatment), and at day 45 and 60 (=during follow-up/post treatment). Safety markers and minerals were evaluated at baseline and at day 30 and day 60. The pharmacokinetic parameters with respect to iAUC were found to be significantly different between LMD1000 vs. STD1000: iAUC(5–60): 992 ± 260 vs. 177 ± 140 nmol day/L; p < 0.05, suggesting up to 6 times higher Vitamin D3 absorption of LMD when measured incrementally. During follow-up, participants in the LMD1000 treatment group showed approx. 7 times higher Vitamin D3 concentrations than the STD1000 group (iAUC(30–60): 680 ± 190 vs. 104 ± 91 nmol day/L; p < 0.05). However, no significant differences were found between the pharmacokinetics of the higher dosing groups STD2500 and LMD2500. No significant changes in serum 1,25(OH)2D concentrations or other biochemical safety markers were detected at day 60; no excess risks of hypercalcemia (i.e., total serum calcium > 2.63 mmol/L) or other adverse events were identified. LMD, a micellar delivery vehicle for microencapsulating Vitamin D3 (LipoMicel®), proved to be safe and only showed superior bioavailability when compared to standard Vitamin D at the lower dose of 1000 IU. This study has clinical trial registration: NCT05209425.

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient with important immunomodulatory properties. As a fat-soluble compound, Vitamin D (and its D3 form) is immiscible with water, which presents challenges to absorption. In an in vitro setting, the current study characterizes novel micellar formulations of Vitamin D3 designed to improve absorption. Techniques used to evaluate and compare the micellar formulations against a non-micellar formula include the following: cryo-SEM to determine morphology; laser diffraction to determine particle size and distribution; zeta potential to determine stability of the particles; solubility assays to determine solubility in water and gastrointestinal media; and Caco-2 cell monolayers to determine intestinal permeability. Results show advantageous features (particle size range in the low micrometres with an average zeta potential of −51.56 ± 2.76 mV), as well as significant improvements in intestinal permeability, in one optimized micellar formula (LipoMicel®). When introduced to Caco-2 cells, LipoMicel’s permeability was significantly better than the control (p < 0.01; ANOVA). Findings of this study suggest that the novel micellar form of Vitamin D3 (LipoMicel) has the potential to promote absorption of Vitamin D3. Thus, it can serve as a promising candidate for follow-up in vivo studies in humans.

BackgroundPhysical inactivity and a poor diet are modifiable behaviors that contribute to obesity. Obesity is a well-recognized risk factor for chronic diseases, including diabetes. Mobile health (mHealth) apps can play an important adjuvant role in preventing and treating chronic diseases and promoting positive health behavior change among people with obesity, and eHealth literacy skills have the potential to impact mHealth app use. ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to explore the associations between the 2 dimensions, access and application, of eHealth literacy skills and mHealth app use among US adults (≥18 years of age) with obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m2). MethodsData were obtained from February to June 2020 using the Health Information National Trends Survey 5. A total of 1079 respondents met the inclusion criteria of adults with obesity and owners of smartphones. Individual associations between mHealth app use and sociodemographic variables were explored using weighted chi-square and 2-tailed t tests. A multivariable weighted logistic regression model was fitted, and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) of using mHealth apps with corresponding 95% CIs were reported across multiple sociodemographic variables. An Ising model-weighted network visualization was produced. A receiver operating characteristic curve was calculated, and the area under the curve was reported with the corresponding Delong 95% CI. ResultsA majority of respondents were female (550/923, 59.6%) or non-Hispanic White (543/923, 58.8%). Individuals in households earning less than US $50,000 comprised 41.4% (382/923) of the sample. All sociodemographic variables were found to be univariately significant at the 5% level, except employment and region. Results from the multivariable weighted logistic regression model showed that the adjusted odds of using an mHealth app are 3.13 (95% CI 1.69-5.80) and 2.99 (95% CI 1.67-5.37) times higher among those with an access eHealth literacy skill of using an electronic device to look for health or medical information for themselves and an application eHealth literacy skill of using electronic communications with a doctor or doctor’s office, respectively. Several sociodemographic variables were found to be significant, such as education, where adjusted ORs comparing subgroups to the lowest educational attainment were substantial (ORs ≥7.77). The network visualization demonstrated that all eHealth literacy skills and the mHealth app use variable were positively associated to varying degrees. ConclusionsThis work provides an initial understanding of mHealth app use and eHealth literacy skills among people with obesity, identifying people with obesity subpopulations who are at risk of a digital health divide. Future studies should identify equitable solutions for people with obesity (as well as other groups) and their use of mHealth apps.

Abstract Objective: The primary objective of this study was to determine whether Healthy Eating Index (HEI) and Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI) scores were associated with incident metabolic syndrome. Design: This study is a secondary analysis of data from the Jackson Heart Study. HEI and AHEI scores were divided into quintiles and Cox proportional hazards regression models were analysed for 1864 African American adults free from metabolic syndrome at Exam 1 to examine the incidence of metabolic syndrome by quintile of dietary quality score. Setting: Hinds, Madison and Rankin counties, Mississippi, USA. Participants: African American adults, ages 21–94 years, 60·9 % female. Results: Over a mean follow-up time of 6·7 years, we observed 932 incident cases of metabolic syndrome. After adjusting for multiple covariates, a higher HEI score at Exam 1 was not associated with the risk of incident metabolic syndrome, except when looking at the trend analysis for the subgroup of adults with two metabolic syndrome components at Exam 1 (P -trend = 0·03). A higher AHEI score at Exam 1 was associated with the risk of incident metabolic syndrome (hazard ratio for those in the highest quintile compared to the lowest: 0·80 (95 % CI: 0·65, 0·99), P-trend = 0·03). Conclusion: These findings suggest that a dietary pattern that scores higher on the AHEI may help reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome, even for adults who already have two of the minimum of three components required for a diagnosis of metabolic syndrome.

BackgroundSuicide rates in the United States have increased recently among Black men. To address this public health crisis, smartphone-based ecological momentary assessment (EMA) platforms are a promising way to collect dynamic, real-time data that can help improve suicide prevention efforts. Despite the promise of this methodology, little is known about its suitability in detecting experiences related to suicidal thoughts and behavior (STB) among Black men. ObjectiveThis study aims to clarify the acceptability and feasibility of using smartphone-based EMA through a pilot study that assesses the user experience among Black men. MethodsWe recruited Black men aged 18 years and older using the MyChart patient portal messaging (the patient-facing side of the Epic electronic medical record system) or outpatient provider referrals. Eligible participants self-identified as Black men with a previous history of STB and ownership of an Android or iOS smartphone. Eligible participants completed a 7-day smartphone-based EMA study. They received a prompt 4 times per day to complete a brief survey detailing their STB, as well as proximal risk factors, such as depression, social isolation, and feeling like a burden to others. At the conclusion of each day, participants also received a daily diary survey detailing their sleep quality and their daily experiences of everyday discrimination. Participants completed a semistructured exit interview of 60-90 minutes at the study’s conclusion. ResultsIn total, 10 participants completed 166 EMA surveys and 39 daily diary entries. A total of 4 of the 10 participants completed 75% (21/28) or more of the EMA surveys, while 9 (90%) out of 10 completed 25% (7/28) or more. The average completion rate of all surveys was 58% (20.3/35), with a minimum of 17% (6/35) and maximum of 100% (35/35). A total of 4 (40%) out of 10 participants completed daily diary entries for the full pilot study. No safety-related incidents were reported. On average, participants took 2.08 minutes to complete EMA prompts and 2.72 minutes for daily diary surveys. Our qualitative results generally affirm the acceptability and feasibility of the study procedures, but the participants noted difficulties with the technology and the redundancy of the survey questions. Emerging themes also addressed issues such as reduced EMA survey compliance and diminished mood related to deficit-framed questions related to suicide. ConclusionsFindings from this study will be used to clarify the suitability of EMA for Black men. Overall, our EMA pilot study demonstrated mixed feasibility and acceptability when delivered through smartphone-based apps to Black men. Specific recommendations are provided for managing safety within these study designs and for refinements in future intervention and implementation science research. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)RR2-10.2196/31241

Abstract Objective: Although typically serving higher income and younger demographic groups, meal-kit subscription services have the potential to improve food availability and dietary quality in communities experiencing low food access due to systemic discrimination. This study describes the development and characteristics of a pilot community-led meal-kit service (SouthEats) and evaluates key implementation outcomes of adoption, acceptability, and feasibility among households experiencing less income. Design: We utilised a mixed methods study design, including data from administrative records, customer surveys and worker interviews. Thematic qualitative analyses and descriptive quantitative analyses were conducted to illuminate the characteristics and extent the pilot meal-kit service was adopted, acceptable, and financially feasible among the target populations. Setting: The study took place in Washington DC, USA. Participants: Study participants included SouthEats consumers (n 35) and workers (n 3). Results: During the pilot period, sixty-seven community members signed up for the meal-kit service, with 52 % making recurring purchases. Our results suggest that the meal-kit service is acceptable among people living in low food access areas. Our feasibility analysis indicates that, although not without challenges, the SouthEats model could be financially feasible. Conclusion: These preliminary insights can inform the scalability and potential replication of this service and provide foundational evidence for an approach that may be used to improve food access.

Background: Vegetable consumption is known to reduce the risk of various chronic health conditions. Yet a small percentage of US adults consume enough vegetables to meet national dietary guidelines. The SouthEats community-led meal–kit service was developed in Washington DC to address known barriers to healthy eating and vegetable consumption among middle- and low-income households. Methods: Using a series of online surveys, we conducted a pilot study to provide preliminary information on the influence of SouthEats on vegetable consumption and factors known to influence vegetable consumption. Wilcoxon matched-pair sign ranked tests were used to examine changes in key outcomes between baseline, midpoint and endpoint surveys. Results: Among SouthEats customers who completed all pilot study surveys (n = 23) there was a significant decrease in the median amount of time spent on meal prep between baseline and midpoint. Between baseline and endpoint, participants also indicated increased feelings that they had enough time to meet their needs including cooking healthfully. Overall vegetable and fruit and vegetable consumption increased between the baseline and midpoint but then decreased between the midpoint and endpoint survey periods. However, there were no statistically significant changes in the outcomes of home eating behaviors, perceptions of neighborhood healthy food access, vegetable self-efficacy, or vegetable consumption. Conclusion: Our results provide some preliminary evidence suggesting that the SouthEats meal-kit service could help reduce the amount of time spent on cooking, reduce feelings of time scarcity, and increase vegetable consumption in the short-term. Further research exploring this topic will require a larger study sample.

Obesity prevalence in the United States has increased drastically in the last two decades. Racial differences in obesity have emerged with the increase in obesity, with temporal trends because of individual, socioeconomic, and environmental factors, eating behaviors, lack of exercise, etc., raising questions about understanding the mechanisms driving these racial differences in the prevalence of obesity among non-Hispanic Black (NHB) and non-Hispanic White (NHW) men. Although many studies have measured obesity using body mass index (BMI), little is known about waist circumference (WC). This study examines variations in obesity among NHW and NHB using BMI and WC. We used National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (1999–2016) with a sample of 9,000 NHW and 3,913 NHB men aged 20 years or older. To estimate the association between the prevalence of obesity (BMI ≥30) and race, we applied modified Poisson regression; to explore and decompose racial differences, we used Oaxaca–Blinder decomposition (OBD). We found that NHW had higher abdominal obesity (WC ≥102) than NHB, but NHB were more likely to be obese (BMI ≥30) during most years, with some fluctuations. Modified Poisson regression showed that NHB had a higher prevalence of obesity (prevalence ratio [PR]: 1.11, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [1.04, 1.18]) but lower abdominal obesity (PR: 0.845; 95% CI = [0.801, 0.892]) than NHW. OBD showed that age, access to health care, smoking, and drinking contributed to the differences in abdominal obesity. The study identifies a significant increase in obesity among men over the last two decades; generalized obesity (based on BMI) was more problematic for NHB men, but abdominal obesity was more problematic for NHW men.

Abstract In the present study, polycrystalline films of layered zinc phosphate hydrate are produced by a facile, low‐temperature single‐step hydrothermal fabrication method on top of Cu metal substrates. Despite containing structural water, the as‐grown films remain crystalline, chemically stable, and electrically conductive. The photoluminescence spectrum obtained at room‐temperature reveals the presence of a spectrally narrow, high‐intensity ultraviolet band that consists of two Gaussian peaks at ≈377 and 383 nm and a UV‐to‐visible peak emission intensity ratio of ≈5.3. The electrical charge‐transport properties remain Ohmic for electric fields of up to ≈2 kV m−1 and temperature (T) range of ≈223–368 K. The electrical conductivity is further found to vary exponentially with the inverse temperature, and the thermal activation energy, Ea is 285 ± 8 meV. A moderate UV‐vis photoconduction effect is registered and assigned to light‐assisted electronic transitions that involve near‐band edge defect states. This study can potentially open a door to the engineering and deployment of water‐based compounds with advanced, semiconducting‐like attributes in short‐wavelength opto‐electronic devices.

Few studies have evaluated environmental factors that predict survival to old age. Our study included 913 African American participants in the Jackson Heart Study (JHS) who resided in the tri-county area of the Jackson, MS metropolitan area and were 65–80 years at baseline. Participants were followed from 2000 through 2019 for the outcome of survival to 85 years old. We evaluated each of the following census tract-level measures of the social/physical environment as exposures: socioeconomic status, cohesion, violence, disorder, healthy food stores, residential land use, and walkability. We assessed mediation by physical activity and chronic conditions. As a complementary ecologic analysis, we used census-tract data to examine factors associated with a greater life expectancy. A total of 501 (55%) JHS participants survived to age 85 years or older. Higher social cohesion and greater residential land use were modestly associated with survival to old age (risk difference = 25%, 95% CI: 0–49%; and 4%, 95% CI: 1–7%, respectively). These neighborhood effects were modestly mediated through leisure time physical activity; additionally, social cohesion was mediated through home and yard activity. In our ecologic analysis, a greater percentage of homeowners and a greater proportion of people living in partnered families were associated with higher census-tract level life expectancy. African American older adults living in residential neighborhoods or neighborhoods with high social cohesion were more likely to survive to old age.

Abstract Introduction Mass incarceration has mental health consequences on those directly affected; some studies have also shown spillover effects on the physical health of the surrounding population. There is a dearth of research on the spillover mental health consequences of mass incarceration. This study aimed to quantify a consequence of mass incarceration which may adversely affect the population’s health and widen health disparities. Methods Using data from the Vera Institute’s Incarceration Trends 2.2 and the Robert Wood Johnson County Health Rankings, the association between county-level (n = 2823) counts of jail incarceration and reported number of poor mental health days within the past 30 days in the United States in 2018 was examined. To conduct the analysis, a negative binomial regression model was fit, adjusting for State and key demographic covariates. Results A change in jail incarceration rate from the first to the second and third tertiles was associated with 10.14% and 14.52% increases, respectively. For every 1% increase in the rate of mass incarceration, there was a statistically significant 15% increase in the average number of reported poor mental health days over the past 30 days. Discussion Mass incarceration is a threat to mental health as well as the well-being of the surrounding population. This can be attributed to the spillover effects that extend beyond those who are directly affected by mass incarceration. Interventions to reduce jail incarceration as well as address the mental health needs of those living in high-incarceration rate areas should be prioritized in order to reduce health inequities and augment health outcomes for all residents of the United States.

Abstract Introduction Black Americans are disproportionately burdened by Alzheimer's disease (AD) relative to other racial groups in the United States and continue to be underrepresented in AD clinical trials. This review explores the primary barriers for participation in clinical trials among Black Americans and provides literature‐based recommendations to improve the inclusion of Black Americans in AD clinical trials. Methods We searched electronic databases and gray literature for articles published in the United States through January 1, 2023, ultimately identifying 26 key articles for inclusion. Results Barriers to participation in clinical trials for Black Americans are rooted in social determinants of health, including access to quality education and information, access to health care, economic stability, built environment, and community context. Best practices to improve the inclusion of Black Americans in clinical trials require pharmaceutical companies to adopt a multifaceted approach, investing in innovative strategies for site selection, development of local partnerships, outreach, and education. Discussion While multisectoral action must occur to effectively address the disproportionate burden of AD on Black Americans, the pharmaceutical industry has an important part to play in this space due to their central role in product development and clinical trials.

Abstract Background Safe and effective weight control strategies are needed to curtail the current obesity epidemic worldwide. Increasing dietary fibre has shown positive results with weight loss as well as in the reduction of metabolic syndrome risk factors. However, fibre can act as an inhibitor to the bioavailability of micronutrients in the gastrointestinal tract. While there is a substantial amount of scientific research into psyllium fibre, PolyGlycopleX (PGX®) is a novel fibre and as yet the effects of PGX® on micronutrient status is not well researched. Aim To determine whether 3-months’ supplementation with 15 g of psyllium or PGX® fibre daily affects micronutrient status of overweight and obese adults. Methods Overweight and obese individuals with a BMI between 25–40 kg/m2 and aged between 18 and 65 years, but otherwise healthy, were instructed to consume a 5 g sachet of psyllium, PGX® fibre or a rice flour placebo three times a day for 52 weeks as part of a larger long-term study. Blood sample data for the first 3 months were analysed for associations between serum micronutrient levels and psyllium fibre and/or PGX® supplements. Results No significant differences between fibre supplement groups and micronutrient status were found after 3 months at p > 0.05. Dietary intake of vitamin C was significantly lower for PGX® at 3 months compared to baseline and compared to control (p

The UK is set to impose a stricter ambient annual mean fine particulate matter (PM2.5) standard than was first adopted fourteen years ago. This necessitates strengthened knowledge of the magnitude and sources that influence urban PM2.5 in UK cities to ensure compliance and improve public health. Here, we use a regional-scale chemical transport model (GEOS-Chem), validated with national ground-based observations, to quantify the influence of specific sources within and transported to the mid-sized UK city Leicester. Of the sources targeted, we find that agricultural emissions of ammonia (NH3) make the largest contribution (3.7 μg m−3 or 38 % of PM2.5) to annual mean PM2.5 in Leicester. Another important contributor is long-range transport of pollution from continental Europe accounting for 1.8 μg m−3 or 19 % of total annual mean PM2.5. City sources are a much smaller portion (0.2 μg m−3; 2 %). We also apply GEOS-Chem to the much larger cities Birmingham and London to find that agricultural emissions of NH3 have a greater influence than city sources for Birmingham (32 % agriculture, 19 % city) and London (25 % agriculture, 13 % city). The portion from continental Europe is 16 % for Birmingham and 28 % for London. Action plans aimed at national agricultural sources of NH3 and strengthened supranational agreements would be most effective at alleviating PM2.5 in most UK cities.

Despite a steady decrease in suicide rates in the United States, the rate among Black males has increased in recent decades. Moreover, suicide is now positioned as the third leading cause of death in this population, signaling a public health crisis. Enhancing the ability for future suicide prevention scholars to fully characterize and intervene on suicide risk factors is an emerging health equity priority, yet there is little empirical evidence to robustly investigate the alarming trends in Black male suicide. We present fundamental areas of expansion in suicide prevention research focused on establishing culturally responsive strategies to achieve mental health equity. Notably, we identify gaps in existing research and offer future recommendation to reduce suicide death among Black males. Our perspective aims to present important and innovative solutions for ensuring the inclusion of Black males in need of suicide prevention and intervention efforts.

IntroductionThere remains a need to better identify patients at highest risk for developing severe Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) as additional waves of the pandemic continue to impact hospital systems. We sought to characterize the association of receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE), SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid viral antigen, and a panel of thromboinflammatory biomarkers with development of severe disease in patients presenting to the emergency department with symptomatic COVID-19.MethodsBlood samples were collected on arrival from 77 patients with symptomatic COVID-19, and plasma levels of thromboinflammatory biomarkers were measured.ResultsDifferences in biomarkers between those who did and did not develop severe disease or death 7 days after presentation were analyzed. After adjustment for multiple comparisons, RAGE, SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid viral antigen, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10 and tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR)-1 were significantly elevated in the group who developed severe disease (all p80% on cut-point analysis.DiscussionElevated RAGE and SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid viral antigen on emergency department presentation are strongly associated with development of severe disease at 7 days. These findings are of clinical relevance for patient prognostication and triage as hospital systems continue to be overwhelmed. Further studies are warranted to determine the feasibility and utility of point-of care measurements of these biomarkers in the emergency department setting to improve patient prognostication and triage.

IntroductionThromboinflammatory complications are well described sequalae of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), and there is evidence of both hyperreactive platelet and inflammatory neutrophil biology that contributes to the thromoinflammatory milieu. It has been demonstrated in other thromboinflammatory diseases that the circulating environment may affect cellular behavior, but what role this environment exerts on platelets and neutrophils in COVID-19 remains unknown. We tested the hypotheses that 1) plasma from COVID-19 patients can induce a prothrombotic platelet functional phenotype, and 2) contents released from platelets (platelet releasate) from COVID-19 patients can induce a proinflammatory neutrophil phenotype. MethodsWe treated platelets with COVID-19 patient and disease control plasma, and measured their aggregation response to collagen and adhesion in a microfluidic parallel plate flow chamber coated with collagen and thromboplastin. We exposed healthy neutrophils to platelet releasate from COVID-19 patients and disease controls and measured neutrophil extracellular trap formation and performed RNA sequencing.ResultsWe found that COVID-19 patient plasma promoted auto-aggregation, thereby reducing response to further stimulation ex-vivo. Neither disease condition increased the number of platelets adhered to a collagen and thromboplastin coated parallel plate flow chamber, but both markedly reduced platelet size. COVID-19 patient platelet releasate increased myeloperoxidasedeoxyribonucleic acid complexes and induced changes to neutrophil gene expression.DiscussionTogether these results suggest aspects of the soluble environment circulating platelets, and that the contents released from those neutrophil behavior independent of direct cellular contact.

Data integration is one of the core responsibilities of EDM (enterprise data management) and interoperability. It is essential for almost every digitalization project, e.g., during the migration from a legacy ERP (enterprise resource planning) software to a new system. One challenge is the incompatibility of data models, i.e., different software systems use specific or proprietary terminology, data structures, data formats, and semantics. Data need to be interchanged between software systems, and often complex data conversions or transformations are necessary. This paper presents an approach that allows software engineers or data experts to use models and patterns in order to specify data integration: it is based on data models such as ER (entity-relationship) diagrams or UML (unified modeling language) class models that are well-accepted and widely used in practice. Predefined data integration patterns are combined (applied) on the model level leading to formal, precise, and concise definitions of data transformations and conversions. Data integration definitions can then be executed (via code generation) so that a manual implementation is not necessary. The advantages are that existing data models can be reused, standardized data integration patterns lead to fast results, and data integration specifications are executable and can be easily maintained and extended. An example transformation of elements of a relational data model to object-oriented data structures shows the approach in practice. Its focus is on data mappings and relationships.

Clostridioides difficile infection is expected to become the most common healthcare-associated infection worldwide. C. difficile-induced pathogenicity is significantly attributed to its enterotoxin, TcdA, which primarily targets Rho-GTPases involved in regulating cytoskeletal and tight junction (TJ) dynamics, thus leading to cytoskeleton breakdown and ultimately increased intestinal permeability. This study investigated whether two non-digestible oligosaccharides (NDOs), alginate (AOS) and chitosan (COS) oligosaccharides, possess antipathogenic and barrier-protective properties against C. difficile bacteria and TcdA toxin, respectively. Both NDOs significantly reduced C. difficile growth, while cell cytotoxicity assays demonstrated that neither COS nor AOS significantly attenuated the TcdA-induced cell death 24 h post-exposure. The challenge of Caco-2 monolayers with increasing TcdA concentrations increased paracellular permeability, as measured by TEER and LY flux assays. In this experimental setup, COS completely abolished, and AOS mitigated, the deleterious effects of TcdA on the monolayer’s integrity. These events were not accompanied by alterations in ZO-1 and occludin protein levels; however, immunofluorescence microscopy revealed that both AOS and COS prevented the TcdA-induced occludin mislocalization. Finally, both NDOs accelerated TJ reassembly upon a calcium-switch assay. Overall, this study established the antipathogenic and barrier-protective capacity of AOS and COS against C. difficile and its toxin, TcdA, while revealing their ability to promote TJ reassembly in Caco-2 cells.

Abstract Electron-hole asymmetry is a fundamental property in solids that can determine the nature of quantum phase transitions and the regime of operation for devices. The observation of electron-hole asymmetry in graphene and recently in twisted graphene and moiré heterostructures has spurred interest into whether it stems from single-particle effects or from correlations, which are core to the emergence of intriguing phases in moiré systems. Here, we report an effective way to access electron-hole asymmetry in 2D materials by directly measuring the quasiparticle self-energy in graphene/Boron Nitride field-effect devices. As the chemical potential moves from the hole to the electron-doped side, we see an increased strength of electronic correlations manifested by an increase in the band velocity and inverse quasiparticle lifetime. These results suggest that electronic correlations intrinsically drive the electron-hole asymmetry in graphene and by leveraging this asymmetry can provide alternative avenues to generate exotic phases in twisted moiré heterostructures.

Abstract Background Community science is increasingly utilized to track important vectors of companion animal disease, providing a scalable, cost‐effective strategy for identifying new foci, changing phenology, and disease prevalence across wide geographies. Objectives We examined photographs of ticks found attached to predominately dogs and cats reported to a photograph‐based tick surveillance program to identify potential areas for improvements in tick prevention education and risk intervention. Methods We compared estimated days of tick attachment using a Kruskal–Wallis one‐way analysis of variance, and a Pearson's chi‐square analysis of variance on the number of submissions by host type submitted for each season. Results The blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis) was the most common species reported (39.8%). Tick photographs submitted were almost entirely adults (89.5%), and ticks found on companion animals exhibited an estimated median engorgement time of 2.5 days. Ixodes scapularis displayed the highest median engorgement of the top tick species found feeding on companion animals (χ2 = 98.96, p

Objective: The PreventionLink of Southern Maryland is a 5-year project to eliminate barriers to participation and retention in the National Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) lifestyle change program to prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes in adults with prediabetes. This is the study to identify the obstacles to participation and retention in the DPP lifestyle change program among high burden populations and learn how CHWs have reduced the identified barriers to participation and retention for high burden populations. Methods: We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) to conduct this literature review. We have used the Scopus and PubMed, including all types of studies and peer-reviewed documents published in English between 2010 and 2020. Results: From 131 identified articles, 18 articles were selected for qualitative synthesis. The reviewed literature documented following as main barriers to participate in a DPP lifestyle change program: time, cost, lack of transportation, cost of transportation, commute distance, technology access, access to facilities and community programs, caregiver responsibilities, lack of health literacy and awareness, and language. CHWs can address these barriers to participation and retention, they were involved in educating and supporting roles; they worked as bridges between healthcare providers and participants and as intervention team members. Conclusions: Diabetes prevention program participants with social determinant risk factors who most need CHW services are unlikely to have financial resources to pay for CHW services out-of-pocket. Hence, the public and private health plans that pay for their prediabetes care should consider paying for these CHW services and there is a need to trust more to CHW and have them as a “community health teams” member.

Abstract Scedosporium apiospermum is an emerging opportunistic fungal pathogen responsible for life-threatening infections in humans. Host–pathogen interactions often implicate lectins that have become therapeutic targets for the development of carbohydrate mimics for antiadhesive therapy. Here, we present the first report on the identification and characterization of a lectin from S. apiospermum named SapL1. SapL1 was found using bioinformatics as a homolog to the conidial surface lectin FleA from Aspergillus fumigatus known to play a role in the adhesion to host glycoconjugates present in human lung epithelium. In our strategy to obtain recombinant SapL1, we discovered the importance of osmolytes to achieve its expression in soluble form in bacteria. Analysis of glycan arrays indicates specificity for fucosylated oligosaccharides as expected. Submicromolar affinity was measured for fucose using isothermal titration calorimetry. We solved SapL1 crystal structure in complex with α-methyl-L-fucoside and analyzed its structural basis for fucose binding. We finally demonstrated that SapL1 binds to bronchial epithelial cells in a fucose-dependent manner. The information gathered here will contribute to the design and development of glycodrugs targeting SapL1.

Obesity is a significant public health problem globally and within the United States. It varies by multiple factors, including but not limited to income. The literature indicates little evidence of the association between income and obesity. We examined the association between income and obesity in U.S. adult men ages 20 years and older and tested racial and ethnic differences. We used data from the 1999 to 2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys for analyses. Obesity was determined using body mass index ≥30 kg/m 2 . We used poverty income ratio (PIR) as a proxy for income and calculated the Gini coefficient (GC) to measure income inequality. We then categorized low-, medium-, and high PIR to examine the relationship between income inequality and obesity. We used Modified Poisson regression in a sample of 17,238 adult men, including 9,511 White Non-Hispanic White (NHW), 4,166 Non-Hispanic Black (NHB), and 3,561 Mexican Americans (MA). We controlled the models for age category, racial and ethnic groups, marital status, education, health behaviors, health insurance coverage, self-reported health, comorbidity, and household structure. Results of our adjusted models suggested a positive and significant association between PIR and obesity among NHWs and NHBs in medium and high PIR; this association was not significant in MAs. Results of our analyses using GC in obese men indicate that compared with NHWs (GC: 0.306, SE: 0.004), MAs (GC: 0.368, SE: 0.005), and NHBs (GC: 0.328, SE: 0.005) had experienced higher-income inequality. In treating obesity, policymakers should consider race/ethnicity strategies to reduce inequality in income.

Summary: N-Acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) is an essential monosaccharide required in almost all organisms. Fluorescent labeling of the peptidoglycan (PG) on N-acetylglucosamine has been poorly explored. Here, we report on the labeling of the PG with a bioorthogonal handle on the GlcNAc. We developed a facile one-step synthesis of uridine diphosphate N-azidoacetylglucosamine (UDP-GlcNAz) using the glycosyltransferase OleD, followed by in vitro incorporation of GlcNAz into the peptidoglycan precursor Lipid II and fluorescent labeling of the azido group via click chemistry. In a PG synthesis assay, fluorescent GlcNAz-labeled Lipid II was incorporated into peptidoglycan by the DD-transpeptidase activity of bifunctional class A penicillin-binding proteins. We further demonstrate the incorporation of GlcNAz into the PG layer of OleD-expressed bacteria by feeding with 2-chloro-4-nitrophenyl GlcNAz (GlcNAz-CNP). Hence, our labeling method using the heterologous expression of OleD is useful to study PG synthesis and possibly other biological processes involving GlcNAc metabolism in vivo.

There is a well-established link between psychosocial risks and psychological health among African American (AA) men. Yet, the psychosocial sources and physical health consequences of resilience (i.e., the ability to maintain good health despite adversity) remain underexplored. Using data from 283 AA men in the Nashville Stress and Health Study, the present study investigated the links between psychosocial resilience and allostatic load (AL), a biological indicator of physiological dysregulation. Latent class analysis (LCA) identified distinct resilience profiles comprising eight psychosocial resources across four categories: coping strategies, sense of control, racial identity, and social support. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) tests determined significant class differences in men’s AL scores. LCA results confirm a four-class model was the best fit: Class 1 (high resources, 32%), Class 2 (high coping but low control, 13%), Class 3 (low resources but high racial identity, 20%), and Class 4 (low resources but high mastery, 34%). Results reveal lower AL (better health) among Classes 1 ( m = 0.35) and 4 ( m = 0.31) and higher AL (worse health) among Classes 2 ( m = 0.44) and 3 ( m = 0.44). Findings indicate that the “quality” rather than the “quantity” of psychosocial resources matters for physical health among AA men, as positive health outcomes were observed among both low- and high-resource classes. Results suggest different resource combinations produce distinct patterns of resilience among AA men and underscore the need to further elucidate complex resilience processes among this population.

Black men experience higher levels of chronic stress, life stressors, and discrimination due to oppressive social and economic conditions. Black men are at greater risk of depression, but most published research on stress and depression has focused on Black people in general, Black women, or older Black men. We sought to determine whether discrimination, perceived stress, major life stress, daily hassles, and social capital were associated with depressive symptoms in young Black men. Survey data were collected from April 2010 to March 2012 in Southern California from a convenience sample of Black men ( N = 201). We used two-sample t tests and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) to examine the association of stress correlates with depressive symptoms. Logistic regression was conducted to estimate the likelihood of reporting depressive symptoms for each significant correlate. Over half of the sample reported depressive symptoms. Health status, perceived discrimination, urban hassles, perceived stress, and neighborhood trust and safety were significantly related to depressive symptoms. Those who reported higher perceived stress had higher odds of reporting depressive symptoms, whereas lower everyday discrimination experiences were associated with lower odds of depressive symptoms. Future studies should consider examining the effectiveness of embedding coping mechanisms for stress, including perceived discrimination, in health interventions for young Black men to prevent or reduce depression.

Introduction: Black men are over-represented in the end stage kidney disease population and are at disproportionate risk of unfavorable outcomes. There is a paucity of investigation to elucidate the mediators of this risk. This study attempts to identify residential community attributes as a possible contributor. Methods: A post-hoc analysis of prospectively collected data from a cohort of Black men enrolled in the US Dialysis Outcomes and Practice Patterns Study (DOPPS), 2010-–2015, linked to the American Community Survey, by dialysis facility zip codes was undertaken. The exposure variable was the dialysis facility community composition as defined by percent Black residents. Negative binomial regression was used to estimate incidence rate ratio (IRR) of hospitalization (first outcome) for Black men in crude and adjusted models. Similarly, Cox proportional hazards modeling was used to estimate mortality (second outcome) for Black men by type of community. Results: A total of 702 Black men receiving chronic hemodialysis were included in the study. Black men receiving hemodialysis in communities with greater proportions of Black residents had lower Charlson scores and fewer comorbidities, but a higher rate of hypertension. They had equivalent adherence to dialysis treatments, but a lower rate of arteriovenous fistula use and fewer dialysis minutes prescribed. Black men receiving dialysis in communities with a greater proportion of Black residents (per 10% increase) had higher adjusted hospitalization rates (IRR 1.09, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.00–1.19) and mortality (hazard ratio [HR] 1.29, 95% CI 1.05–1.59). Conclusions: This study supports the unique role of residential community as a risk factor for Black men with end stage kidney disease, showing higher hospitalization and mortality in those treating in Black versus non-Black communities, despite equivalent adherence and fewer comorbidities.

Abstract Today, COVID-19 is spreading around the world. Information about its mechanism, prognostic factors, and management is minimal. COVID-19, as a human disease, has several identifying phases. Physicians of patients with COVID-19 may be interested in knowing whether opioid use disorder may affect their patients’ course or prognosis. This information may be crucial when considering the opioid epidemic in the US and other parts of the world. Opioid use at high doses and over several months duration can mitigate the immune system’s function, which may complicate the course of COVID-19 disease. Potential suppression of parts of the immune response may be important in prevention, clinical support, and therapeutic use of medications in various phases of the COVID-19. Specifically, opioid use disorders via an inhalation route may enhance the “late hyper-inflammatory phase” or result in end-organ damage. It is well established that opioids decrease ventilation as their effect on the medullary respiratory centers increases the risk of pneumonia. This increased risk has been associated with immune-suppressive opioids. The ultimate role of opioids in COVID-19 is not clear. This paper endorses the need for clinical studies to decipher the role and impact of chronic opioid use on viral diseases such as COVID-19.

Research indicates that income is significantly associated with allostatic load (AL) and that this association may differ between White and Black Americans. Most existing income–AL link work focuses on women and less is known about this association among men. Using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), we examined whether race moderates the association between income and AL among Black and White men in the United States ( n = 5,685). We find that, regardless of income levels, Black men have significantly higher prevalence of being in the high-AL group compared with high-income White men. Our findings suggest that Black men do not receive the same health benefits for increased income relative to their White counterparts.