bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synergistic Modulation of the Separation of Photo‐Generated Carriers via Engineering of Dual Atomic Sites for Promoting Photocatalytic Performance
Authors: Wang Gang , Huang Rong , Zhang Jiangwei , Mao Junjie , Wang Dingsheng , Li Yadong
Published: October 2021

The separation efficiency of photo‐generated carriers is still a great challenge that restricts the practical application of photocatalytic technology. The design of spatial separation path for photo‐generated carriers at atomic level provides an innovative approach to address this challenge. Herein, a facile dual atomic sites strategy, consisting of Cu‐N4 and C‐S‐C active moieties decorated on polymeric carbon nitride (Cu SAs/p‐CNS) is reported to simultaneously achieve the highly efficient separation of photo‐generated electrons and holes for boosting photocatalytic performance. As a proof of concept, the Cu SAs/p‐CNS is successfully applied to the photo‐oxidation of 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) to 2,5‐diformylfuran (DFF), which exhibits 77.1% HMF conversion and 85.6% DFF selectivity under visible light irradiation. The activity is considerably higher than that of bulk p‐CN, S doped p‐CN, and p‐CN supported Cu single atom catalysts. Theoretical calculations and experimental results suggest that, during photocatalytic reaction, the isolated Cu‐N4 sites directly capture photo‐generated electrons, while the surrounding S atoms bear photo‐generated holes, which synergistically facilitates the separation of photo‐generated carriers and thus results in enhanced photocatalytic activity. This study provides a new perspective for the rational design of high performance photocatalysts at atomic level.
Manipulating Color Emission in 2D Hybrid Perovskites by Fine Tuning Halide Segregation: A Transparent Green Emitter
Authors: Zanetta Andrea , Andaji‐Garmaroudi Zahra , Pirota Valentina , Pica Giovanni , Kosasih Felix Utama , Gouda Laxman , Frohna Kyle , Ducati Caterina , Doria Filippo , Stranks Samuel D. , Grancini Giulia
Published: October 2021

Halide perovskite materials offer an ideal playground for easily tuning their color and, accordingly, the spectral range of their emitted light. In contrast to common procedures, this work demonstrates that halide substitution in Ruddlesden–Popper perovskites not only progressively modulates the bandgap, but it can also be a powerful tool to control the nanoscale phase segregation—by adjusting the halide ratio and therefore the spatial distribution of recombination centers. As a result, thin films of chloride‐rich perovskite are engineered—which appear transparent to the human eye—with controlled tunable emission in the green. This is due to a rational halide substitution with iodide or bromide leading to a spatial distribution of phases where the minor component is responsible for the tunable emission, as identified by combined hyperspectral photoluminescence imaging and elemental mapping. This work paves the way for the next generation of highly tunable transparent emissive materials, which can be used as light‐emitting pixels in advanced and low‐cost optoelectronics.
A Wide‐Range Linear and Stable Piezoresistive Sensor Based on Methylcellulose‐Reinforced, Lamellar, and Wrinkled Graphene Aerogels
Authors: Li Guochen , Chu Zengyong , Gong Xiaofeng , Xiao Min , Dong Qichao , Zhao Zhenkai , Hu Tianjiao , Zhang Ye , Wang Jing , Tan Yinlong , Jiang Zhenhua
Published: October 2021

Graphene‐based aerogels (GAs) have been extensively studied for pressure sensing applications due to their high compressibility and conductivity. But the usually‐adopted high‐temperature treatment generally damages the flexibility and stability. It is still challenging to prepare piezoresistive sensors with a wide linear range, and reliable cyclic performance. Herein, we demonstrate an excellent wide‐range piezoresistive sensor based on an aerogel of methylcellulose reinforced reduced graphene oxide (MC/GA). A steaming reduction at 120 °C is proposed to properly control the intermolecular forces and the chemical bonding between MC and GA. The finite element analysis indicates that wrinkled lamellae with hierarchical pores are beneficial to minimize the stress concentrations. As a result of the combined architecture of reinforced, oriented, and wrinkled lamellae with hierarchical pores, the MC/GA has a superior linearity in a much wide range (0–17 kPa, R2 > 0.997), a high sensitivity (9.38 kPa−1), a short response time (<40 ms) and a reliable cyclic performance (>99% retention). As demonstrations, the MC/GA sensor can monitor vital signs of the upper lip, throat or wrist, and can sense the large motion of the fingers, elbows, and feet. These advantages make the MC/GA sensor have a great potential in various health monitoring and motion‐detecting fields.
Recent Advances in the Development of Materials for Terahertz Metamaterial Sensing
Authors: Shen Suling , Liu Xudong , Shen Yaochun , Qu Junle , Pickwell‐MacPherson Emma , Wei Xunbin , Sun Yiwen
Published: October 2021

Terahertz metamaterial sensing (TMS) is a new interdisciplinary technology. A TMS system employs terahertz waves as the pumping source, these then interact with the sample and carry the substance information, e.g., refractive index, absorption spectra. These properties are relevant to the molecular rotation and vibration states produced by a surface‐plasmon‐polariton‐like effect. TMS technology is usually characterized by large penetration depth and high sensitivity. Owing to these advantages, TMS may be used for ultratrace detection and consequently has a wide range of practical applications in biomedicine, food safety, environmental monitoring, industry and agriculture, material characterization, and safety inspection. Furthermore, TMS performance is determined not only by the structural topology of metamaterials, but also by their compositions and substrates. This paper reviews the essential fundamentals, relevant applications, and recent advances in TMS technology with a focus on the influence of material selection on TMS performance. This review is envisaged to be used as a key reference for developing TMS‐based functional devices with enhanced characteristics.
Strong Coupling of Exciton and High‐Q Mode in All‐Perovskite Metasurfaces
Authors: Al‐Ani Ibrahim A. M. , As'Ham Khalil , Huang Lujun , Miroshnichenko Andrey E. , Lei Wen , Hattori Haroldo T.
Published: October 2021

Recently developed halide perovskite semiconductors are viewed as an excellent platform to realize exciton‐polariton at room temperature due to their large oscillation strength. Here, the optimized strong coupling between the exciton of perovskite and quasi‐bound state in the continuum (QBIC) with high‐quality factor (Q‐factor), supported by all‐perovskite metagrating, including magnetic dipole (MD)‐QBIC and toroidal dipole (TD)‐QBIC is demonstrated. By taking advantage of extreme electric field confinement enabled by a high‐Q mode, it is found that the maximum Rabi splitting can be enhanced up to a record high value of 400 meV, almost twice the Rabi splitting reported in the same perovskite‐based subwavelength metasurface. The simulation results reveal that both the Q‐factor of QBIC mode and the thickness of the perovskite metasurface play dominant roles in the enhanced strong coupling. It is also demonstrated that adding a protection layer of poly(methyl methacrylate) on the top of the perovskite metagrating has a negligible effect on the maximized Rabi‐splitting. These results suggest a new approach for studying exciton‐polaritons and may pave the way toward flexible, large‐scale, and low‐cost integrated polaritonic devices and the realization of polariton lasing at room temperature.
Broadband and High‐Sensitivity Time‐Resolved THz System Using Grating‐Assisted Tilted‐Pulse‐Front Phase Matching
Authors: Cui Wei , Awan Kashif Masud , Huber Rupert , Dolgaleva Ksenia , Ménard Jean‐Michel
Published: October 2021

A broadband and sensitive time‐resolved terahertz (THz) configuration relying on noncollinear optical interactions is presented. This noncollinear scheme enables a higher THz generation and detection efficiency in nonlinear crystals. The concept relies on a pair of thick (2 mm) GaP crystals with a phase grating etched on their surface to achieve phase matching between a diffracted near‐infrared pulse and a THz wave propagating at normal incidence. This system is compared to a standard collinear scheme based on thin (0.2 mm) crystals and, while both systems provide access to a spectral bandwidth extending up to 6.5 THz, it is found that the noncollinear configuration improves the THz signal by more than a factor of 400 and the dynamic range of the system by 30 dB at a frequency of 3 THz.
Synthesis of Indole‐ and Pyrrole‐Fused Seven‐Membered Nitrogen Heterocycles via Acid‐Base Switchable Cyclization Involving Cleavage of Amide C−N Bonds
Authors: Hao Yanke , Zhou Pan , Niu Kaikai , Song Hongjian , Liu Yuxiu , Zhang Jingjing , Wang Qingmin
Published: October 2021

We report the method for synthesis of indole‐ and pyrrole‐fused seven‐membered nitrogen heterocycles by means of acid‐base switchable cyclization reactions. The reactions involved cleavage of amide C−N bonds, chemoselective N‐1 or C‐3 acylation, and 1,4‐Michael addition. This method could be used to construct two different kinds of seven‐membered rings in one step from the same starting material without the need for a transition‐metal catalyst.

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Fabricating Ag/PW12/Zr‐mTiO2 Composite via Doping and Interface Engineering: An Efficient Catalyst with Bifunctionality in Photo‐ and Electro‐Driven Nitrogen Reduction Reactions
Authors: Feng Caiting , Liu Jiquan , Li Qinlong , Ji Lei , Wu Panfeng , Yuan Xiaoxiao , Hu Huaiming , Jiang Hai‐Ying , Xue Ganglin
Published: October 2021

Driven by solar power and derived electricity, ambient photo‐ and electrochemical nitrogen fixations are considered promising strategies to produce low‐concentration NH3/NH4+. Under the principles of doping and interface engineering, a Ag/PW12/Zr‐mTiO2 composite is fabricated in a one‐pot synthesis, where zirconium‐doped mesoporous TiO2 is co‐decorated with silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs, optimal 1 wt%) and phosphotungstic acid (PW12, optimal 10 wt%). Enhanced nitrogen chemisorption is achieved owing to Zr‐doping, where the mesoporous structure of Zr‐mTiO2 favors nitrogen mass transfer. Ag NPs decoration leads to visible light absorption. At the interface, PW12 and Ag NPs decelerate the recombination of photo‐generated charge carriers. A Z‐scheme mechanism is suggested for the hetero‐junction, and the surface plasmon resonance effect of Ag NPs is considered in the composite. Consequently, a NH3/NH4+ production rate of 324.2 µmol gcat−1 h−1 is achieved in the photo‐driven process, together with the structure‐reactivity relationship between transient photocurrent intensity and catalytic efficiency. Moreover, constructing Ag/PW12/Zr‐mTiO2 heterojunction introduces a plentitude of active sites for the electrochemical process, together with enhanced charge transfer efficiency at the interface. Hence, an excellent NH3/NH4+ production rate of 55.0 µg mgcat−1 h−1 is accomplished at −0.6 V vs RHE. The robustness and superior activity of Ag/PW12/Zr‐mTiO2 in both photo‐ and electro‐driven processes may offer an opportunity for effectively utilizing sunlight.
Targeted Anti‐Tumor Immunotherapy Using Tumor Infiltrating Cells
Authors: Xie Yifan , Xie Feng , Zhang Lei , Zhou Xiaoxue , Huang Jun , Wang Fangwei , Jin Jin , Zhang Long , Zeng Linghui , Zhou Fangfang
Published: October 2021

In the tumor microenvironment, T cells, B cells, and many other cells play important and distinct roles in anti‐tumor immunotherapy. Although the immune checkpoint blockade and adoptive cell transfer can elicit durable clinical responses, only a few patients benefit from these therapies. Increased understanding of tumor‐infiltrating immune cells can provide novel therapies and drugs that induce a highly specific anti‐tumor immune response to certain groups of patients. Herein, the recent research progress on tumor‐infiltrating B cells and T cells, including CD8+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, and exhausted T cells and their role in anti‐tumor immunity, is summarized. Moreover, several anti‐tumor therapy approaches are discussed based on different immune cells and their prospects for future applications in cancer treatment.
Accelerated Electron Transfer in Nanostructured Electrodes Improves the Sensitivity of Electrochemical Biosensors
Authors: Fu Kaiyu , Seo Ji‐Won , Kesler Vladimir , Maganzini Nicolo , Wilson Brandon D. , Eisenstein Michael , Murmann Boris , Soh H. Tom
Published: October 2021

Electrochemical biosensors hold the exciting potential to integrate molecular detection with signal processing and wireless communication in a miniaturized, low‐cost system. However, as electrochemical biosensors are miniaturized to the micrometer scale, their signal‐to‐noise ratio degrades and reduces their utility for molecular diagnostics. Studies have reported that nanostructured electrodes can improve electrochemical biosensor signals, but since the underlying mechanism remains poorly understood, it remains difficult to fully exploit this phenomenon to improve biosensor performance. In this work, electrochemical aptamer biosensors on nanoporous electrode are optimized to achieve improved sensitivity by tuning pore size, probe density, and electrochemical measurement parameters. Further, a novel mechanism in which electron transfer is physically accelerated within nanostructured electrodes due to reduced charge screening, resulting in enhanced sensitivity is proposed and experimentally validated. In concert with the increased surface areas achieved with this platform, this newly identified effect can yield an up to 24‐fold increase in signal level and nearly fourfold lower limit of detection relative to planar electrodes with the same footprint. Importantly, this strategy can be generalized to virtually any electrochemical aptamer sensor, enabling sensitive detection in applications where miniaturization is a necessity, and should likewise prove broadly applicable for improving electrochemical biosensor performance in general.
Trojan Horse‐Like Nano‐AIE Aggregates Based on Homologous Targeting Strategy and Their Photodynamic Therapy in Anticancer Application
Authors: Li Yin , Zhang Rongyuan , Wan Qing , Hu Rong , Ma Yao , Wang Zhiming , Hou Jianquan , Zhang Weijie , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: October 2021

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has become a promising candidate for cancer theranostics; however, traditional photosensitizers (PSs) usually exhibit weak fluorescence and poor reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation efficiency when aggregated. Recently, aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) luminogens have shown great potential in the development of novel PSs owing to their excellent aggregation‐induced ROS generation (AIG‐ROS) activity. However, there are still concerns that must be addressed. In this study, two near‐infrared (NIR) emitters (PI and PTI) are synthesized with AIG‐ROS characteristic. PTI exhibit a valuable redder emission with more effective intersystem crossing (ISC) process than PI. The two AIE‐active PSs show excellent lipid droplet (LD)‐specific targeting ability. The detailed therapeutic mechanism of PDT in LDs specificity is also investigated. The mechanism of oxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in LDs to form toxic lipid peroxides (LPOs) and thereby causing cellular ferroptosis is confirmed first. Homologous targeting is also used to achieve tumor targeting via coating PSs with active cancer cell membranes. Biomimetic aggregates exhibit good targeting ability, and an improved PDT antitumor effect via AIG‐ROS activity. These findings offer a clear route to develop advanced PSs with good targeting specificity. A template has also been provided for studying the therapeutic mechanism of AIE‐active PSs.
Universal‐Descriptors‐Guided Design of Single Atom Catalysts toward Oxidation of Li2S in Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Zeng Zhihao , Nong Wei , Li Yan , Wang Chengxin
Published: October 2021

The sulfur redox kinetics critically matters to superior lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries, for which single atom catalysts (SACs) take effect on promoting Li2S redox process and mitigating the shuttle behavior of lithium polysulfide (LiPs). However, conventional trial‐and‐error strategy significantly slows down the development of SACs in Li–S batteries. Here, the Li2S oxidation processes over MN4@G catalysts are fully explored and energy barrier of Li2S decomposition (Eb) is identified to correlate strongly with three parameters of energy difference between initial and final states of Li2S decomposition, reaction energy of Li2S oxidation and LiS bond strength. These three parameters can serve as efficient descriptors by which two excellent SACs of MoN4@G and WN4@G are screened which give rise to Eb values of 0.58 and 0.55 eV, respectively, outperforming other analogues in adsorbing LiPs and accelerating the redox kinetics of Li2S. This method can be extended to a wider range of SACs by coupling MN4 moiety with heterostructures and heteroatoms beyond N where WN4@G/TiS2 heterointerface is predicted to exhibit enhanced catalytic performance for Li2S decomposition with Eb of 0.40 eV. This work will help accelerate the process of designing a wider range of efficient catalysts in Li–S batteries and even beyond, e.g. alkali‐ion‐Chalcogen batteries.
Orders of Recombination in Complete Perovskite Solar Cells – Linking Time‐Resolved and Steady‐State Measurements
Authors: Wolff Christian M. , Bourelle Sean A. , Phuong Le Quang , Kurpiers Jona , Feldmann Sascha , Caprioglio Pietro , Marquez Jose Antonio , Wolansky Jakob , Unold Thomas , Stolterfoht Martin , Shoaee Safa , Deschler Felix , Neher Dieter
Published: October 2021

Ideally, the charge carrier lifetime in a solar cell is limited by the radiative free carrier recombination in the absorber which is a second‐order process. Yet, real‐life cells suffer from severe nonradiative recombination in the bulk of the absorber, at interfaces, or within other functional layers. Here, the dynamics of photogenerated charge carriers are probed directly in pin‐type mixed halide perovskite solar cells with an efficiency >20%, using time‐resolved optical absorption spectroscopy and optoelectronic techniques. The charge carrier dynamics in complete devices is fully consistent with a superposition of first‐, second‐, and third‐order recombination processes, with no admixture of recombination pathways with non‐integer order. Under solar illumination, recombination in the studied solar cells proceeds predominantly through nonradiative first‐order recombination with a lifetime of 250 ns, which competes with second‐order free charge recombination which is mostly if not entirely radiative. Results from the transient experiments are further employed to successfully explain the steady‐state solar cell properties over a wide range of illumination intensities. It is concluded that improving carrier lifetimes to >3 µs will take perovskite devices into the radiative regime, where their performance will benefit from photon‐recycling.
In Situ Infrared Micro and Nanospectroscopy for Discharge Chemical Composition Investigation of Non‐Aqueous Lithium–Air Cells
Authors: Nepel Thayane C. M. , Anchieta Chayene G. , Cremasco Leticia F. , Sousa Bianca P. , Miranda André N. , Oliveira Lorrane C. C. B. , Francisco Bruno A. B. , Júlio Julia P. de O. , Maia Francisco C. B. , Freitas Raul O. , Rodella Cristiane B. , Filho Rubens M. , Doubek Gustavo
Published: October 2021

Metal–air batteries, such as Li–air, may be the key for large‐scale energy storage as they have the highest energy density among all electrochemical devices. However, these devices suffer from irreversible side reactions leading to battery failure, especially when ambient air is used as the O2 source, so a deep understanding over the surface chemistry evolution is imperative for building better devices. Herein, a multi‐scale (nano‐micro) FTIR analysis is made over the electrode surface during cell discharge employing synchrotron infrared nanospectroscopy (SINS) for the first time, to track the chemical composition changes at the nanoscale which are successfully correlated with in operando micro‐FTIR characterization. The in situ results reveal homogeneous product distribution from the nano to the micro scale, and that the discharge rate does not interfere in chemical composition. In operando micro‐FTIR shows the atmosphere dependency over Li products formation; the presence of HCOO– species occurring due to CO2 electroreduction in water, LiOH and Li2CO3, are also detected and even the lowest concentration of CO2 and H2O affects the O2 reactions. Finally, evidence of the Li2O2 reaction with DMSO forming DMSO2 after just 140 s of cell discharge shows this new technique's relevance in aiding the search for stable electrolytes.
International Retrospective Cohort Study of Conversion Therapy for Stage IV Gastric Cancer 1 (CONVO‐GC‐1)
Authors: Yoshida Kazuhiro , Yasufuku Itaru , Terashima Masanori , Young Rha Sun , Moon Bae Jae , Li Guoxin , Katai Hitoshi , Watanabe Masahiko , Seto Yasuyuki , Hoon Noh Sung , Kwang Yang Han‐ , Ji Jiafu , Baba Hideo , Kitagawa Yuko , Morita Satoshi , Nishiyama Masahiko , Kodera Yasuhiro ,   CONVO‐GC‐1 Study Group, Federation of Asian Clinical Oncology (FACO)
Published: October 2021

Aim

Much attention has been paid to conversion therapy for stage IV gastric cancer, however, its operative comorbidities and survival benefit have not yet been clarified. CONVO‐GC‐1, an international retrospective cohort study, was designed to investigate the role of conversion surgery in Japan, Korea, and China.

Methods

The rate of operative complications was the primary endpoint and the overall survival (OS), according to the four‐category criteria previously published (Gastric Cancer:19; 2016), was analyzed as the secondary endpoint.

Results

A total of 1206 patients underwent surgery after chemotherapy with curative intent. Operative complications were observed in 290 (24.0%) patients in all grades, including pancreatic fistula and surgical site infection. The median survival time (MST) of all resected patients was 36.7 mo (M) and those of R0, R1, and R2 resection were 56.6 M, 25.8 M, and 21.7 M, respectively. Moreover, the MST of R0 patients were 47.8 M, 116.7 M, 44.8 M in categories 1, 2, and 3, respectively, and not reached in category 4. Interestingly, the MST of P1 patients was as favorable as that of P0CY1 patients if R0 resection was achieved. The MST of patients with liver metastasis was also favorable regardless of the number of lesions, and the MST of patients with para‐aortic lymph node (LN) No 16a1/b2 metastasis was not inferior to that of patients with para‐aortic LN No 16a2/b1 metastasis.

Conclusion

Conversion therapy for stage IV gastric cancer is safe and could be a new therapeutic strategy to improve the survival of patients, especially those with R0 resection.
Incongruent phylogenies and their implications for the study of diversification, taxonomy, and genome size evolution of Rhododendron
Authors: Khan Gulzar , Nolzen Jennifer , Schepker Hartwig , Albach Dirk C.
Published: October 2021

Premise

Classification of taxa depends on the quality of inferred phylogenies. Rhododendron, a highly species‐rich genus (>1156 species) of woody plants, has a highly debated infrageneric classification, due to its huge diversity, homoplasy in key characters, and incongruence among data sets. We provide a broad coverage of representative species to resolve Rhododendron infrageneric phylogeny and highlight the areas of incongruence. We further investigate the effect of polyploidy and genome size evolution on diversification of Rhododendron.

Methods

We generated two plastid and two nuclear loci for 260 Rhododendron species. We analyzed the loci separately as well as concatenated, utilizing both likelihood and Bayesian methods. We tested incongruence both among the data sets and with previous studies. We estimated genome sizes for 125 species through flow cytometry.

Results

Our results suggest stronger support for larger subgenera; however, the smaller subgenera pose several problems; for example, R. tomentosum (former genus Ledum) occupies incongruent positions based on different DNA regions. The main shift to higher diversification in the genus occurs in the Himalayan/Southeast Asian clade of R. subg. Hymenanthes. We found that polyploidy occurs in almost all subgenera but most frequently within R. subg. Rhododendron sections Rhododendron and Schistanthe.

Conclusions

We endorse the recognition of five major clades at the subgeneric level, but a number of species cannot be confidently assigned to these clades due to incongruency. With regard to genome size evolution, results support previous reports that genome sizes of tropical plants are lower than those of colder and temperate regions and that genome downsizing promotes diversification.
Phylogenomics and continental biogeographic disjunctions: insight from the Australian starflowers (Calytrix)
Authors: Nge Francis J. , Biffin Ed , Waycott Michelle , Thiele Kevin R.
Published: October 2021

Premise

Continental‐scale disjunctions and associated drivers are core research interests in biogeographic studies. Here, we selected a species‐rich Australian plant genus (Calytrix; Myrtaceae) as a case study to investigate these patterns. Species of this endemic Australian starflower genus have a disjunct distribution across the mesic fringes of the continent and are largely absent from the arid center.

Methods

We used high‐throughput sequencing to generate unprecedented resolution and near complete species‐level nuclear and plastid phylogenies for Calytrix. BioGeoBEARS and biogeographic stochastic mapping were used to infer ancestral areas, the relative contributions of vicariance and dispersal events, and directionality of dispersal.

Results

Present‐day disjunctions in Calytrix are explained by a combination of scenarios: (1) retreat of multiple lineages from the continental center to the more mesic fringes as Australia became progressively more arid, with subsequent extinction in the center as well as (2) origination of ancestral lineages in southwestern Australia (SWA) for species‐rich clades. The SWA biodiversity hotspot is a major diversification center and the most common source area of dispersals, with multiple lineages originating in SWA and subsequently spreading to the adjacent arid Eremaean region.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that major extinction, as a result of cooling and drying of the Australian continent in the Eocene–Miocene, shaped the present‐day biogeography of Calytrix. We hypothesize that this peripheral vicariance pattern, which is similar to the African Rand flora, may explain the disjunctions of many other Australian plant groups. Further studies with densely sampled phylogenies are required to test this hypothesis.
Work‐relatedness of lateral epicondylitis: Systematic review including meta‐analysis and GRADE work‐relatedness of lateral epicondylitis
Authors: Bretschneider S. Fransje , Los Felicia S. , Eygendaal Denise , Kuijer P. Paul F. M. , van der Molen Henk F.
Published: October 2021

Background

Lateral epicondylitis (LE) is a highly prevalent musculoskeletal disorder in workers, often associated with physically demanding work. Knowledge of work‐relatedness of LE is crucial to develop appropriate preventive measures. This study investigates the prospective association between work‐related physical risk factors and LE.

Methods

A systematic literature review was conducted in MedLine using PubMed from January 1, 2010 until February 16, 2021. Published reports were included if: (1) LE was clinically assessed, (2) exposure to work‐related physical risk factors was assessed, and (3) associations between LE and work‐related physical risk factors were reported in prospective studies. Quality of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation.

Results

In total, 318 workers with LE from a population of 5036 workers in five studies were included. Meta‐analyses revealed high‐quality evidence for associations between LE and a Strain Index (SI) score >5.1 (odds ratio [OR]: 1.75, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.11–2.78) and moderate‐quality evidence for forearm rotation >4 h/day or forearm rotation ≥45° for ≥45% time (OR: 1.85, 95% CI: 1.10–3.10). Gripping, flexion and extension of the wrist, and repetitive movements showed no significant associations with LE.

Conclusion

High‐quality evidence was found indicating that a higher SI increased the risk of LE. Moderate‐quality evidence was found for an association between forearm rotation and LE. No associations were found between other physical risk factors and LE. Primary preventive interventions should focus on a reduction of the SI and of high forearm rotation in work.
Self‐reported medication use as an alternate phenotyping method for anxiety and depression in the UK Biobank
Authors: Skelton Megan , Rayner Christopher , Purves Kirstin L. , Coleman Jonathan R. I. , Gaspar Héléna A. , Glanville Kylie P. , Hunjan Avina K. , Hübel Christopher , Breen Gerome , Eley Thalia C.
Published: October 2021

The requirement for large sample sizes for psychiatric genetic analyses necessitates novel approaches to derive cases. Anxiety and depression show substantial genetic overlap and share pharmacological treatments. Data on prescribed medication could be effective for inferring case status when other indicators of mental health are unavailable. We investigated self‐reported current medication use in UK Biobank participants of European ancestry. Medication Status cases reported using antidepressant or anxiolytic medication (n = 22,218), controls did not report psychotropic medication use (n = 168,959). A subset, “Medication Only,” additionally did not meet criteria for any other mental health indicator (case n = 2,643, control n = 107,029). We assessed genetic overlap between these phenotypes and two published genetic association studies of anxiety and depression, and an internalizing disorder trait derived from symptom‐based questionnaires in UK Biobank. Genetic correlations between Medication Status and the three anxiety and depression phenotypes were significant (rg = 0.60–0.73). In the Medication Only subset, the genetic correlation with depression was significant (rg = 0.51). The three polygenic scores explained 0.33% – 0.80% of the variance in Medication Status and 0.07% – 0.19% of the variance in Medication Only. This study provides evidence that self‐reported current medication use offers an alternate or supplementary anxiety or depression phenotype in genetic studies where diagnostic information is sparse or unavailable.
Range‐wide indicators of African great ape density distribution
Authors: Ordaz‐Németh Isabel , Sop Tenekwetche , Amarasekaran Bala , Bachmann Mona , Boesch Christophe , Brncic Terry , Caillaud Damien , Campbell Geneviève , Carvalho Joana , Chancellor Rebecca , Davenport Tim R. B. , Dowd Dervla , Eno‐Nku Manasseh , Ganas‐Swaray Jessica , Granier Nicholas , Greengrass Elizabeth , Heinicke Stefanie , Herbinger Ilka , Inkamba‐Nkulu Clement , Iyenguet Fortuné , Junker Jessica , Bobo Kadiri S. , Lushimba Alain , Maisels Fiona , Malanda Guy Aimé Florent , McCarthy Maureen S. , Motsaba Prosper , Moustgaard Jennifer , Murai Mizuki , Ndokoue Bezangoye , Nixon Stuart , Nseme Rostand Aba'a , Nzooh Zacharie , Pintea Lilian , Plumptre Andrew J. , Roy Justin , Rundus Aaron , Sanderson Jim , Serckx Adeline , Strindberg Samantha , Tweh Clement , Vanleeuwe Hilde , Vosper Ashley , Waltert Matthias , Williamson Elizabeth A. , Wilson Michael , Mundry Roger , Kühl Hjalmar S.
Published: October 2021

Species distributions are influenced by processes occurring at multiple spatial scales. It is therefore insufficient to model species distribution at a single geographic scale, as this does not provide the necessary understanding of determining factors. Instead, multiple approaches are needed, each differing in spatial extent, grain, and research objective. Here, we present the first attempt to model continent‐wide great ape density distribution. We used site‐level estimates of African great ape abundance to (1) identify socioeconomic and environmental factors that drive densities at the continental scale, and (2) predict range‐wide great ape density. We collated great ape abundance estimates from 156 sites and defined 134 pseudo‐absence sites to represent additional absence locations. The latter were based on locations of unsuitable environmental conditions for great apes, and on existing literature. We compiled seven socioeconomic and environmental covariate layers and fitted a generalized linear model to investigate their influence on great ape abundance. We used an Akaike‐weighted average of full and subset models to predict the range‐wide density distribution of African great apes for the year 2015. Great ape densities were lowest where there were high Human Footprint and Gross Domestic Product values; the highest predicted densities were in Central Africa, and the lowest in West Africa. Only 10.7% of the total predicted population was found in the International Union for Conservation of Nature Category I and II protected areas. For 16 out of 20 countries, our estimated abundances were largely in line with those from previous studies. For four countries, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Liberia, and South Sudan, the estimated populations were excessively high. We propose further improvements to the model to overcome survey and predictor data limitations, which would enable a temporally dynamic approach for monitoring great apes across their range based on key indicators.
3D geometric morphometrics analysis of mandibular fragments of Ouranopithecus macedoniensis from the late Miocene deposits of Central Macedonia, Greece
Authors: Ioannidou Melania , Koufos George D. , de Bonis Louis , Harvati Katerina
Published: October 2021

Objectives

To explore mandibular shape differences between Ouranopithecus macedoniensis and a comparative sample of extant great apes using three‐dimensional (3D) geometrics morphometrics. Other objectives are to assess mandibular shape variation and homogeneity within Ouranopithecus, explore the effects of size on mandibular shape, and explore the degree of mandibular sexual size dimorphism in Ouranopithecus.

Materials and methods

The comparative sample comprises digitized mandibles from adult extant great apes. The 3D analysis includes three datasets: one with landmarks registered on the mandibular corpus and symphysis of mandibles preserving both sides, one on hemimandibles only, and one focused on the ramus and gonial area. Multivariate statistical analyses were conducted, such as ordination analyses (PCA), intra‐specific Procrustes distances pairs, pairwise male–female centroid size differences, and correlation analyses.

Results

The male and female specimens of Ouranopithecus have mandibular shapes that are quite similar, although differences exist. The Procrustes distances results suggest more shape variation in Ouranopithecus than in the extant great apes. Ouranopithecus shows some similarities in mandibular shape to the larger great apes, Gorilla and Pongo. Moreover, the degree of sexual dimorphism in the small Ouranopithecus sample is greater than any of the great apes. Based on our correlation analyses of principal components (PC) with size, some PCs are significantly correlated with size, with correlation varying from moderate to substantial.

Discussion

This study attempted to understand better the variation within the mandibles of O. macedoniensis and the expression of sexual dimorphism in this taxon in more detail than has been done previously. The overall mandibular morphology of Ouranopithecus shows some similarities to those of the larger great apes, which likely reflects similarities in size. Compared to Gorilla and Pongo, O. macedoniensis shows an elevated degree of morphological variation, although limitations relating to sample size apply. Sexual dimorphism in the mandibles of O. macedoniensis appears to be relatively high, seemingly greater than in Gorilla and high even in comparison to Pongo, but this again is possibly in part an artifact of a small sample size.
Sidon on the breadth of the wild sea: Movement and diet on the Mediterranean coast in the Middle Bronze Age
Authors: Stantis Chris , Maaranen Nina , Kharobi Arwa , Nowell Geoff M. , Macpherson Colin , Doumet‐Serhal Claude , Schutkowski Holger
Published: October 2021

Objectives

Excavations at Sidon (Lebanon) have revealed dual identities during the Middle Bronze Age (ca. 2000–1600 BCE): a maritime port and center for local distribution, as well as a settlement with a heavy subsistence dependence on the extensive inland hinterlands. We aim to investigate residential mobility at Sidon using isotopic analyses of 112 individuals from 83 burials (20 females, 26 males, and 37 subadults). Veneration and remembrance of the dead is evident from funerary offerings in and near the tombs. With marine fish a major component in funerary offerings, we predict major marine reliance in this coastal population.

Materials and methods

New isotopic evidence of paleomobility (87Sr/86Sr, δ18O) and diet (δ13Ccarbonate) is the focus of this research. Previous bulk bone collagen δ13C and δ15N analysis is strengthened by further sampling, along with δ34S where collagen yield was sufficient.

Results

The five non‐locals identified (8.9% of the 56 analyzed) come from constructed tombs with high‐status grave goods except for one, which was heavily disturbed in antiquity. Dietary investigation of the population confirms reliance on terrestrial resources with no significant marine input. No significant differences in diet between the sexes or burial types are present.

Conclusions

Although Sidon was part of a growing Mediterranean network evidenced through artefactual finds, relatively low immigration is evident. While religious feasts venerating the dead may have involved significant piscine components, no appreciable marine input in diet is observed. Fish may have been reserved for the deceased or only consumed on feast days alongside the dead rather than a regular part of the Bronze Age menu.
Concussion and long‐term cognitive function among rugby players—The BRAIN Study
Authors: Gallo Valentina , McElvenny Damien M. , Seghezzo Giulia , Kemp Simon , Williamson Elizabeth , Lu Kirsty , Mian Saba , James Laura , Hobbs Catherine , Davoren Donna , Arden Nigel , Davies Madeline , Malaspina Andrea , Loosemore Michael , Stokes Keith , Cross Matthew , Crutch Sebastian , Zetterberg Henrik , Pearce Neil
Published: October 2021

Objective

The BRAIN Study was established to assess the associations between self‐reported concussions and cognitive function among retired rugby players.

Methods

Former elite‐level male rugby union players (50+ years) in England were recruited. Exposure to rugby‐related concussion was collected using the BRAIN‐Q tool. The primary outcome measure was the Preclinical Alzheimer Cognitive Composite (PACC). Linear regressions were conducted for the association between concussion and PACC score, adjusting for confounders.

Results

A total of 146 participants were recruited. The mean (standard deviation) length of playing career was 15.8 (5.4) years. A total of 79.5% reported rugby‐related concussion(s). No association was found between concussion and PACC (β –0.03 [95% confidence interval (CI): –1.31, 0.26]). However, participants aged 80+ years reporting 3+ concussions had worse cognitive function than those without concussion (β –1.04 [95% CI: –1.62, –0.47]).

Conclusions

Overall there was no association between concussion and cognitive function; however, a significant interaction with age revealed an association in older participants.
Supramolecular Nanopatterns of Molecular Spoked Wheels with Orthogonal Pillars: The Observation of a Fullerene Haze
Authors: Poluektov Georgiy , Keller Tristan J. , Jochemich Anna , Krönert Anna , Müller Ute , Spicher Sebastian , Grimme Stefan , Jester Stefan‐S. , Höger Sigurd
Published: October 2021

Molecular spoked wheels with intraannular functionalizable pillars are synthesized in a modular approach. The functionalities at their ends are variable, and a propargyl alcohol, a [6,6]‐phenyl‐C61‐butyrate, and a perylene monoimide are investigated. All compounds form two‐dimensional crystals on highly oriented pyrolytic graphite at the solid–liquid interface. As determined by submolecularly resolved scanning tunneling microscopy, the pillars adopt equilibrium distances of 6.0 nm. The fullerene has a residual mobility, limited by the length of the flexible connector unit. The experimental results are supported and rationalized by molecular dynamics simulations. These also show that, in contrast, the more rigidly attached perylene monoimide units remain oriented along the surface normal and maintain a smallest distance of 2 nm above the graphite substrate. The robust packing concept also holds for cocrystals with molecular hexagons that expand the pillar–pillar distances by 15 % and block unspecific intercalation.
Catalytic activity of silver nanocomposite alginate beads for degradation of basic dye: Kinetic and isothermal study
Authors: Albalwi Hanan , Abou El Fadl Faten Ismail , Ibrahim Mohamed M. , Abou Taleb Manal F.
Published: October 2021

As the removal of toxic dyes by catalytic degradation is interestingly growing field, diverse types of nanomaterials are used intensively as a catalyst to enhance the catalytic degradation of toxic dyes in the last decades. The unique property of ionic crosslinking of the biopolymer sodium alginate (Na‐ALG) in presence of CaCl2 solution is exploited to prepare Ca‐alginate (Ca‐ALG) microbeads, which further used as precursor for in situ silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) formation by the effect of gamma radiation to obtain Ca‐ALG/Ag nanocomposite beads. The amount of silver ions adsorbed by the Ca‐ALG beads before reduction was evaluated by using ultraviolet‐visible spectrophotometer (UV–Vis). The physicochemical properties of prepared Ca‐ALG/Ag nanocomposite beads were studied by various techniques as X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) for approving the creation of Ag NPs and assessing its morphology and particle magnitude. The catalytic reduction ability of the resulting Ca‐ALG/Ag nanocomposite beads is studied toward the degradation of basic blue 3 dye as a model anionic dye by the aid of the reducing agent NaBH4 under various factors including time, pH, catalyst's dosage, NaBH4 contents, and dye's initial concentration. Various kinetics and isothermal models were applied for forecasting the mechanism of the degradation process using the prepared catalyst beads. The kinetics and isothermal study revealed that the degradation process using Ca‐LG/Ag nanocomposite beads as a catalyst in presence of NaBH4 as a reducing agent was best fit the pseudo‐second‐order model and Langmuir isotherm model.
Visible light‐driven photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange by Fe2O3‐BiOCl0.5Br0.5 composite photocatalyst
Authors: Barman Sanmitra , Singh Bipin , Bag Arijit , Patel Arun Singh , Chakraborti Anirban , Rana Abhimanyu
Published: October 2021

In this paper, a novel composite photocatalyst, ferric oxide–bismuth oxyhalide (Fe2O3‐BiOCl0.5Br0.5) has been synthesized, characterized, and used for the degradation of methyl orange through advanced oxidation process under ambient conditions (sunlight, pH 7.0, and temperature 25°C). The catalyst has been characterized by using UV‐Vis spectrophotometer, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Raman spectrometer, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X‐ray analysis (EDX), and X‐ray diffractometer (XRD) techniques. The catalyst shows appreciable activities under natural sunlight conditions. From the XRD patterns and SEM images, it is observed that the elongation along the z axis in the crystal lattice of BiOCl0.5Br0.5 in the catalyst can lead to a lattice distortion induced internal electric field which can help in charge carrier separation and transport. The Fe2O3‐BiOCl0.5Br0.5 catalyst shows more than 90% photodegradation efficiency of methyl orange in 90 min of sunlight exposure. The presence of magnetic ferric oxide in the composite photocatalyst helps to isolate the catalyst from the reaction mixture by using an external magnet, and thus, the Fe2O3‐BiOCl0.5Br0.5 catalyst can be reused repeatedly, towards degradation of organic pollutants.
Biocomposites from polyamide 11 reinforced by organic silane modified jute fibers: Fabrication and characterization
Authors: Van Cong Do , Giang Nguyen Vu , Trung Tran Huu , Hoang Thai , Lam Tran Dai , Tham Do Quang , Huong Nguyen Thi
Published: October 2021

Using plant derived polymers for the composite production has been considering as an efficiently attempt to reduce the impacts from the environmental pollution as well as utilizes the benefits they can bring. Fully jute/polyamide 11 (PA11) biocomposites are green materials expected to own many outstanding advantages of both components for example, high‐mechanical performances and especially environmentally friendliness. However, to the best of our knowledge, these materials has not been studied so far. This work focuses on the further modification of alkaline pre‐treated jute fibers by using vinyltrimethoxysilane (VTMS) and evaluates the effect of silanization on the interaction and adhesion between jute fibers and PA11 resin as well as the characteristics of resulting composites. By using Fourier transform infrared, thermogravimetry, mechanical property analysis, color difference measurement, and scanning electron microscopy observations, the contribution of VTMS modification to the enhancement on the interfacial interaction and adhesion between fibers and PA11 resin proved clearly. The results showed that tensile strength, impact strength; and Young's modulus of silanized jute biocomposites increased by 44.1; 26.5 and 55.6%, respectively in comparison to those of untreated fiber biocomposites. Similarly, thermal stability, resistance to water absorption and weathering resistance of obtained biocomposites were improved.
Making and taking information
Authors: Huvila Isto
Published: October 2021

Information behavior theory covers different aspects of the totality of information‐related human behavior rather unevenly. The transitions or trading zones between different types of information activities have remained perhaps especially under‐theorized. This article interrogates and expands a conceptual apparatus of information making and information taking as a pair of substantial concepts for explaining, in part, the mobility of information in terms of doing that unfolds as a process of becoming rather than of being, and in part, what is happening when information comes into being and when something is taken up for use as information. Besides providing an apparatus to describe the nexus of information provision and acquisition, a closer consideration of the parallel doings opens opportunities to enrich the inquiry of the conditions and practice of information seeking, appropriation, discovery, and retrieval as modes taking, and learning and information use as its posterities.