Near-field-driven thermal phonon lasing.

The extreme electromagnetic near-field environment of nanoplasmonic resonators and metamaterials can give rise to unprecedented electromagnetic heating effects, enabling large and manipulable temperature gradients on the order of 10-10 K/nm. In this Letter, by interfacing traditional semiconductor quantum dots with industry-grade plasmonic transducer technology, we demonstrate that the near-field-induced thermal gradient can facilitate the requisite population inversion for coherent phonon amplification and lasing at the nanoscale. Our detailed analysis uncovers both the characteristics and parameter sensitivity of inversion and relaxation oscillations in the system, thereby unveiling hitherto unexplored opportunities for leveraging plasmonic near-field effects in the context of quantum thermodynamics and phononics.

Using the Behaviour Change Wheel to develop an intervention to improve conversations about recovery on the stroke unit.

Background: Understanding recovery is important for patients with stroke and their families, including how much recovery is expected and how long it might take. These conversations can however be uncomfortable for stroke unit staff, particularly when they involve breaking bad news. This study aimed to begin development of a novel complex intervention to improve conversations about recovery on stroke units.

The Role of Beta-Hydroxybutyrate in Mitigating the Inflammatory and Metabolic Consequences of Uric Acid.

Uric acid (UA), a metabolite of purine and fructose metabolism, is linked to inflammation and metabolic disorders, including gout and cardiovascular disease. Its pro-inflammatory effects are largely driven by the activation of the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, leading to increased cytokine production. Beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), a ketone produced during fasting or carbohydrate restriction, has been shown to reduce inflammation.

Temporal RAGE Over-Expression Disrupts Lung Development by Modulating Apoptotic Signaling.

Receptors for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) are multiligand cell surface receptors found most abundantly in lung tissue. This study sought to evaluate the role of RAGE in lung development by using a transgenic (TG) mouse model that spatially and temporally controlled RAGE overexpression. Histological imaging revealed that RAGE upregulation from embryonic day (E) 15.

Practice variability in uptake and implementation of new US DHHS guidelines for feeding of HIV exposed infants.

New US guidelines support shared decision making regarding breastfeeding for mothers living with HIV and their neonates. We surveyed Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society members about implementation of these guidelines. We found heterogeneity in uptake, variability in clinical practice, and concerns about implementation.