bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Piezoelectric Actuation Mechanism Involving Extrinsic Nanodomain Dynamics in Lead‐Free Piezoelectrics
Authors: Kim Sangwook , Miyauchi Ryuki , Sato Yukio , Nam Hyunwook , Fujii Ichiro , Ueno Shintaro , Kuroiwa Yoshihiro , Wada Satoshi
Published: January 2023

Piezoelectric materials play a key role in applications, while there are physically open questions. The physical origin of piezoelectricity is understood as the sum of contributions from intrinsic effects on lattice dynamics and those from extrinsic effects on ferroic‐domain dynamics, but there is an incomplete understanding that all but intrinsic effects are classified as extrinsic effects. Therefore, the accurate classification of extrinsic effects is important for understanding the physical origin of piezoelectricity. In this work, high‐energy synchrotron radiation X‐ray diffraction is utilized to measure the response of BiFeO3−BaTiO3 piezoelectrics and the intrinsic/extrinsic contribution to electric fields. It is found from crystal structure and intrinsic/extrinsic contribution, using the analysis involving structure refinement with various structural model and micromechanics‐based calculations, that Bi3+‐ion disordering is important for realization of piezoelectricity and nanodomains. Here, an extrinsic effect on the rearrangement of nanodomains is suggested. The nanodomains, which are formed by the locally distorted structure around the A‐site by Bi‐ion disordering, can significantly deform the material in the BiFeO3−BaTiO3 system, which contributes to the piezoelectric actuation mechanism apart from the extrinsic effect on ferroic‐domain dynamics. Bi‐ion disordering plays an important role in realizing piezoelectricity and nanodomains and can provide essential material design clues to develop next‐generation Bi‐based lead‐free piezoelectric ceramics.
Membrane Protein Modification Modulates Big and Small Extracellular Vesicle Biodistribution and Tumorigenic Potential in Breast Cancers In Vivo
Authors: Magoling Bryan John Abel , Wu Anthony Yan‐Tang , Chen Yen‐Ju , Wong Wendy Wan‐Ting , Chuo Steven Ting‐Yu , Huang Hsi‐Chien , Sung Yun‐Chieh , Hsieh Hsin Tzu , Huang Poya , Lee Kang‐Zhang , Huang Kuan‐Wei , Chen Ruey‐Hwa , Chen Yunching , Lai Charles Pin‐Kuang
Published: January 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are released by cells to mediate intercellular communication under pathological and physiological conditions. While small EVs (sEVs; <100–200 nm, exosomes) are intensely investigated, the properties and functions of medium and large EVs (big EVs (bEVs); >200 nm, microvesicles) are less well explored. Here, bEVs and sEVs are identified as distinct EV populations, and it is determined that bEVs are released in a greater bEV:sEV ratio in the aggressive human triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) subtype. PalmGRET, bioluminescence‐resonance‐energy‐transfer (BRET)‐based EV reporter, reveals dose‐dependent EV biodistribution at nonlethal and physiological EV dosages, as compared to lipophilic fluorescent dyes. Remarkably, the bEVs and sEVs exhibit unique biodistribution profiles, yet individually promote in vivo tumor growth in a syngeneic immunocompetent TNBC breast tumor murine model. The bEVs and sEVs share mass‐spectrometry‐identified tumor‐progression‐associated EV surface membrane proteins (tpEVSurfMEMs), which include solute carrier family 29 member 1, Cd9, and Cd44. tpEVSurfMEM depletion attenuates EV lung organotropism, alters biodistribution, and reduces protumorigenic potential. This study identifies distinct in vivo property and function of bEVs and sEVs in breast cancer, which suggest the significant role of bEVs in diseases, diagnostic and therapeutic applications.
Thermoresponsive Electrolytes for Safe Lithium‐Metal Batteries
Authors: Jiang Feng‐Ni , Cheng Xin‐Bing , Yang Shi‐Jie , Xie Jin , Yuan Hong , Liu Lei , Huang Jia‐Qi , Zhang Qiang
Published: January 2023

Exploring advanced strategies in alleviating the thermal runaway of lithium‐metal batteries (LMBs) is critically essential. Herein, a novel electrolyte system with thermoresponsive characteristics is designed to largely enhance the thermal safety of 1.0 Ah LMBs. Specifically, vinyl carbonate (VC) with azodiisobutyronitrile is introduced as a thermoresponsive solvent to boost the thermal stability of both the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) and electrolyte. First, abundant poly(VC) is formed in SEI with thermoresponsive electrolyte, which is more thermally stable against lithium hexafluorophosphate compared to the inorganic components widely acquired in routine electrolyte. This increases the critical temperature for thermal safety (the beginning temperature of obvious self‐heating) from 71.5 to 137.4 °C. The remained VC solvents can be polymerized into poly(VC) as the battery temperature abnormally increases. The poly(VC) can not only afford as a barrier to prevent the direct contact between electrodes, but also immobilize the free liquid solvents, thereby reducing the exothermic reactions between electrodes and electrolytes. Consequently, the internal‐short‐circuit temperature and “ignition point” temperature (the starting temperature of thermal runaway) of LMBs are largely increased from 126.3 and 100.3 °C to 176.5 and 203.6 °C. This work provides novel insights for pursuing thermally stable LMBs with the addition of various thermoresponsive solvents in commercial electrolytes.
LaMgGa11O19:Cr3+,Ni2+ as Blue‐Light Excitable Near‐Infrared Luminescent Materials with Ultra‐Wide Emission and High External Quantum Efficiency
Authors: Zhang Qianqian , Liu Dongjie , Wang Zhennan , Dang Peipei , Lian Hongzhou , Li Guogang , Lin Jun
Published: January 2023

Highly efficient luminescence material covering near‐infrared (NIR) I (700–1000 nm) and II (1000–1700 nm) is of great importance for phosphor‐converted NIR light‐emitting diodes (pc‐LEDs) light sources. The lack of ultra‐wide emission NIR luminescent materials that can be excited by cheap blue‐LEDs, suspends the applications of NIR pc‐LEDs. Ni2+‐activated phosphor usually gives an NIR‐II region emission, however, it presents low quantum efficiency due to poor absorption in blue light region. Here, a blue‐LED‐excitable (400–480 nm) LaMgGa11O19(LMG):Cr3+,Ni2+ NIR‐emitting phosphor is reported. Significantly, by constructing energy transfer from Cr3+ to Ni2+, it demonstrates an ultra‐wide NIR emission from 650 to 1600 nm, and greatly improves external quantum efficiency (EQE) from 2% to 53%. Besides, the weakened exchange coupling of Ni2+−Ni2+ pairs leads to an abnormal blue‐shift of Ni2+ emission with increasing temperature. The fabricated NIR pc‐LED gives a high output power of 8 mW at 20 mA with the photoelectric efficiency of 14%, which favors potential applications in night‐vision technology, medical applications, non‐destructive analysis, and spectroscopic analysis. This exploration of Cr3+‐Ni2+ co‐doped strategy for realizing high‐performance NIR‐emitting phosphor provides novel and effective design insights into developing more ultra‐broadband NIR pc‐LEDs based on cheap blue LEDs.
Tunable Metasurface Based on Plasmonic Quasi Bound State in the Continuum Driven by Metallic Quantum Wells
Authors: Ma Hongbin , Niu Junru , Gao Bingtao , Zhang Yiyun , Feng Yiming , Gao Fei , Chen Hongsheng , Qian Haoliang
Published: January 2023

Effectual free‐space optical metasurface is essential for telecommunication and information processing. However, the lack of efficient optical nonlinearity is still an obstacle to empower its full capability and practical applications. Metallic quantum wells (MQWs) with large nonlinear susceptibility may pave a new way. Here, such MQWs are implemented into a resonance configuration of the quasi bound state in the continuum (BIC) and an efficient tunable plasmonic metasurface is proposed. Such metasurface is composed of MQWs‐based nanostructure, which supports the tunable plasmonic quasi‐BIC. The tunability is controlled through substantial change in refractive index of MQWs induced by Kerr‐type nonlinearity, which leads to around 9 dB extinction ratio and extremely high modulation speed up to terahertz level. The quasi‐BIC with narrow linewidth is obtained through symmetry‐breaking of nanoelliptical elements, further enhancing the modulation depth. This work satisfies the ultrafast‐speed and high‐efficiency requirement of free‐space all‐optical metasurfaces, including the spatial light modulators in optical computing field.
Long‐Lived Charge Separation Induced Organic Long‐Persistent Luminescence with Circularly Polarized Characteristic
Authors: Wang Tiantian , Liu Man , Feng Wenhui , Cao Rui , Sun Yajing , Wang Lichang , Liu Dongzhi , Wang Yong , Wang Tianyang , Hu Wenping
Published: January 2023

Research on strategies to enable organic long‐persistent luminescence (LPL) emission with circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) characteristics is still very rare due to the lack of an unambiguous light‐emitting mechanism. Herein, circularly polarized long‐persistent luminescence (CPLPL) of a pair of axial chiral molecules as the guest is induced under ambient conditions by exploiting the long‐lived charge separation of the host–guest doping system, whose LPL performance can be further promoted by introducing a rigid polymer network to enhance the charge separation efficiency between host and guest. Based on these CPLPL materials, an effective combination of CPL and LPL properties that is “difficult to copy” is revealed for information encryption and anticounterfeiting applications. This work is expected to stimulate a research boom of CPLPL materials, and will hopefully promote the development of organic LPL systems.
Interactions between Ecosystem Services and Social Economies in the Yangtze River Economic Belt
Authors: Wang Wei , Wang Haofei , Yang Guishan , Zhou Xiuhui
Published: January 2023

An in‐depth understanding of the relationships between ecosystem services (ESs) and socioeconomic (SE) development is an important prerequisite for the coordination and sustainable development of regional human–environmental management strategies. In this study, the coupling coordination model is employed to explore the synergistic and trade‐off relationships between ESs and SE factors.The results show that the ESs in the Yangtze River Economic Belt are currently in a trade‐off stage. At the urban scale, the synergy between water production and other ecosystem functions is more than 20% higher than that of other systems. The proportion of trade‐offs between sediment retention and other ecosystem functions is also high, more than 40% higher than that of other systems. ESs are greatly affected by SE development; the expansion of cultivated land area has the largest negative effect on ESs, and rainfall has the largest negative effect on SE factors. The population has the largest positive effect on ESs, and carbon storage has the largest positive effect on SE factors. This study provides a research method by exploring the patterns of development, interaction, and impact in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, which can provide a basis for the SE development and ESs management of watershed economic zones.
Organic single‐crystal light‐emitting transistors with external quantum efficiency over 20%
Authors: Deng Jian , Zhang Zejian , Sang Pengpeng , Yin Shujun , Zhang Shitong , Li Yuan , Yang Bing , Gu Cheng , Ma Yuguang
Published: January 2023

Organic light‐emitting transistors (OLETs) have attracted increasing attention because of their potential applications in next‐generation displays and high‐energy operating devices. However, the simultaneous achievement of high luminescent efficiency and carrier mobility in organic semiconductors remains challenging because the localized excitons are advantageous for light emission, whereas the delocalized carriers are beneficial for efficient charge migration. Herein, we report an organic single crystal of a cyano‐substituted styrene derivative with balanced mobility yielding a record‐high external quantum efficiency of 20.5% in OLETs. Temperature‐dependent I–V curves and electronic structure analyses based on first‐principles calculations were performed to disclose the underlying mechanism as a band transport, which provides an efficient way to achieve high quantum efficiency in OLETs.
Examining civic engagement in ethnic minority youth populations: A literature review and concept analysis
Authors: Phan Van , Kloos Bret
Published: January 2023

Racial reckoning is defined as the subjugation of Black, Indigenous, and people of Color (BIPOC) to racial hierarchies and subordinate groups that influence multiple well‐being outcomes throughout the developmental lifespan and across generations. With the two pandemics of racial reckoning and COVID‐19 amidst a growing controversial political landscape, topics around civic engagement have been brought to the forefront of community conversation. Discussions surrounding civic engagement must go beyond addressing issues of public concern and examine the vehicle in which civic engagement may be delivered. This is becoming increasingly important as civic engagement is one of the main avenues of social change through individual and collective action, particularly regarding racial reckoning and healthcare disparities highlighted by COVID‐19. The paper focuses on civic engagement among ethnic minority youth and young adults. An integrated model of civic engagement was created based off what was learned through this review. This proposed model of civic engagement is meant to be the first step to addressing the gap in civic engagement literature for ethnic minority youth. Weaknesses and future considerations regarding the model will also be discussed, as well as any implications for ethnic minority youth and young adults.
Genomic sequencing in a cohort of individuals with fibular aplasia, tibial campomelia, and oligosyndactyly (FATCO) syndrome
Authors: Matalon Dena R. , Bhoj Elizabeth J. , Li Dong , McDougall Carey , Schindewolf Erica , Khalek Nahla , Wilkens Alisha , McManus Morgan , Deardorff Matthew A. , Zackai Elaine H.
Published: January 2023

Fibular aplasia, tibial campomelia, and oligosyndactyly (FATCO) syndrome (MIM 246570) is a rare disorder characterized by specific skeletal findings (fibular aplasia, shortened or bowed tibia, and oligosyndactyly of the foot and/or hand). Typically, no other anomalies, craniofacial dysmorphism, or developmental delays are associated. Here we report three unrelated individuals with limb anomalies consistent with FATCO syndrome who have been followed clinically for 5 years. Genetic testing of previously reported individuals with FATCO syndrome has not revealed a genetic diagnosis. However, no broader sequencing approaches have been reported. We describe the results of the three individuals with FATCO syndrome from exome and genome sequencing, all of which was nondiagnostic. Our study suggests that FATCO syndrome is not the result of a simple monogenic etiology.
Solid‐Electrolyte Interphase Chemistries Towards High‐Performance Aqueous Zinc Metal Batteries
Authors: Zhang Wei , He Guanjie
Published: January 2023

Aqueous zinc metal batteries (AZMBs) are deemed a promising technology for electrochemical energy storage due to their high safety, low cost, and high energy density. However, AZMBs still suffer from severe side reactions, including Zn dendrite formation and intrinsic hydrogen evolution reaction. In contrast to the solid‐electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer that stabilizes Li/Na/K metal anodes in organic electrolytes, it is difficult to form an SEI layer on the Zn surface because of the difficulty in decomposing the salt anions within the narrow electrochemical potential window of water. A team from the University of Adelaide reports a novel pure or hybrid electrolyte with H2O by using dimethyl methylphosphonate (DMMP) as solvent or co‐solvent to construct a uniform and stable phosphate‐based SEI layer (ZnP2O6 and Zn3(PO4)2). As a result, high Coulombic efficiencies and improved capacity retentions are obtained.
Genetic and epigenetic signatures associated with plasma oxytocin levels in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Siecinski Stephen K. , Giamberardino Stephanie N. , Spanos Marina , Hauser Annalise C. , Gibson Jason R. , Chandrasekhar Tara , Trelles Maria del Pilar , Rockhill Carol M. , Palumbo Michelle L. , Cundiff Allyson Witters , Montgomery Alicia , Siper Paige , Minjarez Mendy , Nowinski Lisa A. , Marler Sarah , Kwee Lydia C. , Shuffrey Lauren C. , Alderman Cheryl , Weissman Jordana , Zappone Brooke , Mullett Jennifer E. , Crosson Hope , Hong Natalie , Luo Sheng , She Lilin , Bhapkar Manjushri , Dean Russell , Scheer Abby , Johnson Jacqueline L. , King Bryan H. , McDougle Christopher J. , Sanders Kevin B. , Kim Soo‐Jeong , Kolevzon Alexander , Veenstra‐VanderWeele Jeremy , Hauser Elizabeth R. , Sikich Linmarie , Gregory Simon G.
Published: January 2023

Oxytocin (OT), the brain's most abundant neuropeptide, plays an important role in social salience and motivation. Clinical trials of the efficacy of OT in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have reported mixed results due in part to ASD's complex etiology. We investigated whether genetic and epigenetic variation contribute to variable endogenous OT levels that modulate sensitivity to OT therapy. To carry out this analysis, we integrated genome‐wide profiles of DNA‐methylation, transcriptional activity, and genetic variation with plasma OT levels in 290 participants with ASD enrolled in a randomized controlled trial of OT. Our analysis identified genetic variants with novel association with plasma OT, several of which reside in known ASD risk genes. We also show subtle but statistically significant association of plasma OT levels with peripheral transcriptional activity and DNA‐methylation profiles across several annotated gene sets. These findings broaden our understanding of the effects of the peripheral oxytocin system and provide novel genetic candidates for future studies to decode the complex etiology of ASD and its interaction with OT signaling and OT‐based interventions.

Lay Summary

Oxytocin (OT) is an abundant chemical produced by neurons that plays an important role in social interaction and motivation. We investigated whether genetic and epigenetic factors contribute to variable OT levels in the blood. To this, we integrated genetic, gene expression, and non‐DNA regulated (epigenetic) signatures with blood OT levels in 290 participants with autism enrolled in an OT clinical trial. We identified genetic association with plasma OT, several of which reside in known autism risk genes. We also show statistically significant association of plasma OT levels with gene expression and epigenetic across several gene pathways. These findings broaden our understanding of the factors that influence OT levels in the blood for future studies to decode the complex presentation of autism and its interaction with OT and OT‐based treatment.
QbD‐based stability‐indicating liquid chromatography (RP‐HPLC) method for the determination of flurbiprofen in cataplasm
Authors: Nathi Rathnakar , Kowtharapu Leela Prasad , Muchakayala Siva Krishna , Konduru Naresh
Published: January 2023

A nonsteroidal drug called flurbiprofen (FBN) has analgesic, anti‐inflammatory and antipyretic activity. Currently the determination of FBN in cataplasm does not have any pharmacopeial method. However, the drug substance, tablet and ophthalmic solution formulations do have pharmacopeial methods. The development and validation of an accurate, precise and stability‐indicating analytical method for the determination of FBN in cataplasm formulations is reported. The gradient method was employed for the quantification of FBN in the presence of internal standards such as biphenyl. A nonpolar separation phase (C18, 250 × 4.6 mm, 5 μm Inertsil column; GL Sciences) was used. The optimal flow rate, column oven temperature, injection volume and detector wavelengths were 1.0 ml/min, 40°C, 20 μl and 245 nm, respectively. Mobile phase A was a mixture of water and glacial acetic acid (30:1 v/v) pH adjusted to 2.20 with glacial acetic acid or 1 m NaOH; mobile phase B was methanol (100%). The gradient elution program was [time (min)/% B]: 5/60, 20/70, 25/70, 30/60 and 40/60. The obtained RSDs for the precision and intermediate precision were 0.7 and 0.5%. The percentage recovery ranged from 99.2 to 100.4%. The linear regression coefficient >0.9996 indicates that all peak responses were linear with the concentration. The sample and standard solutions were stable for up to 24 h on the benchtop and in the refrigerator. The critical peaks were well separated from the generated peaks owing to forced degradation, including diluent and placebo peaks. The method validation data and quality by design‐based robustness study results indicate that the developed method is robust and fit for routine use in the quality control laboratory. The proposed method is specific, accurate and precise, and the quality by design utilized the first method for the determination of FBN in cataplasm formulations. Transdermal patches and gels have low extraction capacity and this method is applicable for quantification.
The impact of corruption and public governance quality on family firm business strategy
Authors: Medioli Alice , Marchini Pier Luigi , Mazza Tatiana
Published: January 2023

Corruption is a plague with serious economic and social consequences and has a greater impact than people perceive. The impacts on business are severe but often underestimated. The aim of this paper is to analyze the influence of public governance environment on the strategical opportunistic use of related party transactions in family firms. Considering corruption as a good indicator of conditions that boost unethical behavior, the study investigates whether high standard of public governance quality at a regional level, as well as low corruption, helps to reduce specific types of opportunistic transactions. Based on a regression analysis on European‐listed family firms in Italy, France, and Germany, we find that high public governance quality at the regional level reduces companies' opportunistic transactions. The study addresses a gap in the literature, first, because it empirically shows a link between the quality of the context and some unethical business strategies, confirming that a negative context leaves room for opportunistic behaviors and that high standards in the public governance quality discourage firms' opportunistic behaviors through specific transactions and, second, because it focuses on family firms suggesting that a strong family power that controls strategy and decision‐making process, if operate in a bad public quality context, may be involved in opportunistic behaviors.
Board gender diversity and ESG decoupling: Does religiosity matter?
Authors: Eliwa Yasser , Aboud Ahmed , Saleh Ahmed
Published: January 2023

In this paper, we examine the relationship between board gender diversity and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) decoupling and the moderating effect that religiosity has on this relationship. We utilise an international sample of 26,176 firm‐year observations that cover the period from 2005 to 2019. Consistent with the upper echelon theory and the gender socialisation theory, we provide evidence that firms with a more gender‐diversified board of directors tend to engage less in ESG decoupling, and this relationship is more pronounced among firms domiciled in countries with a low level of religiosity. We also find that the effect of religiosity on the relationship between board gender diversity and ESG decoupling is more pronounced for firms that engage in greenwashing and those operating in controversial industry sectors. Our study contributes to the growing debate on ESG decoupling, offering policy insights to regulators and policymakers into the role of board gender diversity and religiosity in reducing unethical managerial behaviour.
A new model based on the extended COPRAS method for improving performance during the accreditation process of Indian Higher Educational Institutions
Authors: Agarwal Nidhi , Tayal Devendra K.
Published: January 2023

The standard of any country in the global world is dependent highly on the intellect content of the people. This intellect content is in turn dependent exclusively upon the quality of the higher education in the country. The aim of this research work is to perform an empirical evaluation to rank various quality parameters suggested by the National Board of Accreditation. This national board was established in India in 1994 by the All India Council for Technical Education with the main motive of assessing the quality of various Higher Educational Institutions. It provides marks to institutions out of 1000 on the basis of 10 parameters, which are further subdivided into 75 subparameters. This research work helps to guide educational institutions to access their weak points during and before applying for this accreditation to recover from them timely and in the most effective manner. An extended model of fuzzy COPRAS (COmplex PRoportional ASsessment) is proposed as an improved multicriteria decision‐making approach to first identify and then set preferences to help institutions improve their data related to accreditation key indicators. The work is divided into four steps. First, all the critical evaluation factors for the accreditation process are identified in consultation with senior, experienced and qualified academicians. They are then converted into fuzzy triangular numeric values and crisp weights. Lingual values and corresponding fuzzy weights of various preference key indicators are then identified and converted into crisp weights. Further critical factors are divided into price and profit values. Finally, key indicators are ranked using extended fuzzy COPRAS. A comparative ranking analysis is generated as end result through fuzzy COPRAS, TOPSIS (Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution) and WASPAS (Weighted Aggregated Sum Product Assessment) approaches, which shows that the proposed model generates better ranking results. The proposed model is applicable to any accreditation process with a varied set of parameters and their subparameters.
Synthesis and Characterization of Tetrakis(pentafluoroethyl)indate Salts
Authors: Porath Sven , Keßler Mira , Neumann Beate , Stammler Hans‐Georg , Hoge Berthold
Published: January 2023

In the rising field of organoindium chemistry little is known about the perfluoroorganyl‐substituted indium compounds. The increasing use of indium reagents is explained by their high stability and tolerance towards water and functional groups. Here we report on the synthesis of the novel tetrakis(pentafluoroethyl)indate, [In(C2F5)4]−, and its characterization in salts with the cations [Li(thf)3]+, Cs+, [PPh4]+ and [H14O6]2+ (thf=tetrahydrofuran). To the best of our knowledge, these salts constitute the first perfluoroalkylindates and, in general, the first isolated perfluoroalkylindium compounds which are fully characterized by NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, elemental analysis and X‐ray diffraction analysis.
Design of Porous Graphene Materials from Organic Precursors
Authors: Debnath Ranjit , Sutradhar Prasanta , Saha Mitali
Published: January 2023

The preparation of the porous graphene materials with controllable porosity basically depends on the design of porous architectures. The development of three‐dimensional (3D) graphene materials from two‐dimensional (2D) graphene sheets can harness the unique physical and electrical properties of graphene, but the challenges lie on the design and synthesis of nanoporous graphene with controlled engineering. In this work, two organic aromatic molecules viz., 2‐amino‐3‐hydroxypyridine and phloroglucinol were targeted for the development of porous graphene nanostructures. The synthesis process was designed in such a way that both the molecules having ─OH and ─NH2 groups at ortho position and 3 ─OH groups at 1, 3, 5 positions, respectively, can generate pores along with the development of graphenic lattice during heat treatment. The optimization of reaction conditions viz., time and temperature was done and the chemistry of formation of porous natured graphenic lattice was discussed. Interestingly, the results indicate that both the organic molecules have the potential to develop porous graphenic structures within their lattice at relatively low temperatures without using any additional reagents and reaction conditions. It is suggested that the structure of organic precursor is a critical factor which needs to be optimized to produce porous graphenes.
Efficient Fractionation and Catalytic Valorization of Raw Biomass in ϵ‐Caprolactone and Water
Authors: Chen Jiali , Si Xiaoqin , Wang Yubao , Ren Zhiwen , Liu Qian , Lu Fang
Published: January 2023

Efficient fractionation and utilization of the whole biomass is particularly attractive but remains a great challenge, owing to the recalcitrance of biomass. In this study, a simple and efficient approach is developed to obtain high‐purity cellulose with a delignification degree of 97.5 % in ϵ‐caprolactone and water. FTIR spectroscopy reveals that ϵ‐caprolactone and water act in synergy to remove lignin from raw biomass and afford cellulose with clear macrofibrils. A linear positive correlation between the contents of hemicellulose and lignin is observed for the separated cellulose pulp. This mixed solvent exhibits good performance for the removal of lignin from various agricultural and forestry wastes. Moreover, nearly complete transformation of the whole biomass constituents is achieved with Ni−Al catalyst.
Urine concentrations of vilanterol and its metabolites, GSK932009 and GW630200, after inhalation of therapeutic and supratherapeutic doses
Authors: Østergaard Martin , Jessen Søren , Hansen Erik Søren Halvard , Backer Vibeke , Panchal Tina , Baldwin Sandra , Daley‐Yates Peter , Hostrup Morten
Published: January 2023

The 2023 Prohibited List issued by the World Anti‐Doping Agency (WADA) permits athletes to inhale the beta2‐agonist vilanterol at a standard dose of 25 μg daily. However, given limited data on urine pharmacokinetics, vilanterol has no urinary threshold or decision limit to discriminate therapeutic from supratherapeutic use. We investigated urine concentrations of vilanterol and its main metabolites GSK932009 and GW630200 over 0–72 h following inhalation of therapeutic (25 μg) or supratherapeutic (100 μg) doses and repeat‐dose administration for 7 days of 25 or 100 μg·day−1 in 25 trained men and women. Vilanterol administration was followed by 1 h of exercise. GW630200 urine concentrations were low and insufficient for threshold purposes, and while GSK932009 had higher urine concentrations, it could not discriminate between therapeutic and supratherapeutic use. Mean (range) maximum urine concentrations of parent vilanterol were 1.2 (0.2–4.1) and 6.2 (1.4–14.3) ng·ml−1 for single‐dose 25 and 100 μg vilanterol, respectively, and 2.0 (0.3–4.8) and 22.4 (6.4–42.1) ng·ml−1 for repeat‐dose 25 and 100 μg·day−1 vilanterol. In 333 samples collected 6 h post‐administration and considering WADA TD2022DL, a 3.1 ng·ml−1 vilanterol cut‐off showed 30% sensitivity in detecting supratherapeutic use at 100 μg versus therapeutic use at 25 μg. Considering inter‐ and intra‐individual variability and guard bands in doping analysis, a 6 ng·ml−1 decision limit, which could be shifted upwards in samples with specific gravity >1.018, appears sufficiently high to minimize risk of samples exceeding the decision limit after therapeutic use of vilanterol, while demonstrating the ability to detect supratherapeutic use at 100 μg.
A pilot randomized controlled trial of a cognitive‐behavioral therapy guided self‐help mobile app for the post‐acute treatment of anorexia nervosa: A registered report
Authors: Fitzsimmons‐Craft Ellen E. , Laboe Agatha A. , McGinnis Claire , Firebaugh Marie‐Laure , Shah Jillian , Wallendorf Michael , Jacobi Corinna , Bardone‐Cone Anna M. , Pike Kathleen M. , Taylor C. Barr , Wilfley Denise E.
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Relapse following acute treatment for anorexia nervosa (AN) is common. Evidence suggests cognitive‐behavioral therapy (CBT) may be useful in the post‐acute period, but few patients have access to trained providers. mHealth technologies have potential to increase access to high‐quality care for AN, including in the post‐acute period. The aim of this study is to estimate the preliminary feasibility and effectiveness of a CBT‐based mobile intervention plus treatment as usual (TAU), offered with and without an accompanying social networking feature.

Method

In the current pilot randomized controlled trial, women with AN who have been discharged from acute treatment in the past 2 months (N = 90) will be randomly assigned to a CBT‐based mobile intervention plus treatment as usual (TAU), a CBT‐based mobile intervention including social networking plus TAU, or TAU alone. We will examine feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness of the three conditions in terms of reducing eating disorder psychopathology, reducing frequency of eating disorder behaviors, achieving weight maintenance, reducing depression and suicidal ideation, and reducing clinical impairment. We will examine rehospitalization and full recovery rates in an exploratory fashion. We will also examine whether the mobile intervention and social networking feature change the proposed targets and whether changes in targets are associated with benefit, as well as conduct exploratory analyses to identify within‐mobile intervention predictors and moderators of outcome.

Discussion

Ultimately, this research may lead to increased access to evidence‐based treatment for individuals with AN and prevention of the extreme negative consequences that can result from this serious disorder.

Public Significance

Relapse after acute treatment for anorexia nervosa is common, and few patients have access to trained providers to support them following acute care. This study will pilot a coached mobile app, including a social networking component, for this population. If ultimately successful, our approach could greatly increase access to evidence‐based treatment for individuals with anorexia nervosa and ultimately prevent the extreme negative consequences that can result from this serious disorder.
The maternal energetic environment affects both egg and offspring phenotypes in green anole lizards (Anolis carolinensis)
Authors: Marks Jamie R. , Sorlin Mahaut , Lailvaux Simon P.
Published: January 2023

Animals exist in dynamic environments that may affect both their own fitness and that of their offspring. Maternal effects might allow mothers to prepare their offspring for the environment in which they will be born via several mechanisms, not all of which are well understood. Resource scarcity and forced resource allocation are two scenarios that could affect maternal investment by altering the amount and type of resources available for investment in offspring, albeit in potentially different ways. We tested the hypothesis that maternal dietary restriction and sprint training have different consequences for the offspring phenotype in an oviparous lizard (Anolis carolinensis). To do this, we collected and reared eggs from adult diet‐manipulated females (low‐diet [LD] or high‐diet [HD]) and sprint‐trained females (sprint trained [ST] or untrained [UT]) and measured both egg characteristics and hatchling morphology. ST and LD mothers laid both the fewest and heaviest eggs, and ST, UT, and LD eggs also had significantly longer incubation periods than the HD group. Hatchlings from the diet experiment (LD and HD offspring) were the heaviest overall. Furthermore, both body mass of the mother at oviposition and change in maternal body mass over the course of the experiment had significant and sometimes different effects on egg and offspring phenotypes, highlighting the importance of maternal energetic state to the allocation of maternal resources.
Detours in the Development of the Organocatalytic Diels‐Alder Reactions of Vinylboronic Compounds. A Dead End?
Authors: Ramos Marchena Juan M. , Terrestre Gustavo O. , Simonetti Sebastián O. , Pellegrinet Silvina C.
Published: January 2023

Attempts to improve the organocatalytic Diels‐Alder reactions of vinylboronic compounds are described. Further experiments, theoretical calculations and NMR studies were performed to optimize the existing procedure and analyze the reactivity of the reactive intermediate and the ligand‐exchange process. In particular, the relationship between the structure and the performance of the organocatalysts was studied theoretically and experimentally. Although the catalytic activity of the α‐hydroxy acids could not be improved much, a deeper insight has been gained, which might be useful for the development of other organocatalytic reactions of organoboron compounds.
A Bayesian time series model for reconstructing hydroclimate from multiple proxies
Authors: Cahill Niamh , Croke Jacky , Campbell Micheline , Hughes Kate , Vitkovsky John , Kilgallen Jack Eaton , Parnell Andrew
Published: January 2023

We propose a Bayesian model which produces probabilistic reconstructions of hydroclimatic variability in Queensland Australia. The model provides a standardized approach to hydroclimate reconstruction using multiple palaeoclimate proxy records derived from natural archives such as speleothems, ice cores and tree rings. The method combines time‐series modeling with inverse prediction to quantify the relationships between a given hydroclimate index and relevant proxies over an instrumental period and subsequently reconstruct the hydroclimate back through time. We present case studies for Brisbane and Fitzroy catchments focusing on two hydroclimate indices, the Rainfall Index (RFI) and the Standardized Precipitation‐Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI). The probabilistic nature of the reconstructions allows us to estimate the probability that a hydroclimate index in any reconstruction year was lower (higher) than the minimum (maximum) value observed over the instrumental period. In Brisbane, the RFI is unlikely (probabilities < 5%) to have exhibited extremes beyond the minimum/maximum values observed between 1889 and 2019. However, in Fitzroy there are several years during the reconstruction period where the RFI is likely (>50% probability) to have exhibited behavior beyond the minimum/maximum of what has been observed, during the instrumental period. For SPEI, the probability of observing such extremes prior to the beginning of the instrumental period in 1889 doesn't exceed 30% in any reconstruction year in Brisbane, but exceeds 50% in multiple years in Fitzroy.
Deciphering the contribution of PerR to oxidative stress defense system in Clostridium tyrobutyricum
Authors: Yang Lei , Yang Zhihan , Liu Jiayu , Liu Zilong , Liu Yuxin , Zhu Liying , Zhu Zhengming , Jiang Ling
Published: January 2023

As a next‐generation probiotic, Clostridium tyrobutyricum, which is considered obligate anaerobe, has been extensively considered a promising candidate for future use to promote health benefits. The industrial applications were limited by its weak tolerance to oxygen stress during fermentation. Here, we enhanced the oxidative stress tolerance of C. tyrobutyricum L319 by deleting the peroxide response regulator gene perR using an endogenous CRISPR‐Cas system. The mutant strain exhibited greatly improved growth when exposed to oxygen, which also showed a shortened lag phase compared with the control strain. Consistently, a concomitant increase in butyric acid productivity from 0.08 to 0.13 g/L/h in the presence of oxygen was observed. Decreased intracellular ROS level sand NAD+/NADH ratios were also observed in the mutant strain. Furthermore, transcriptome and binding target analysis revealed that genes encoding transcriptional regulators and proteins related to redox balance were upregulated. Changes in carbohydrate, amino acid and purine metabolisms upon oxygen exposure were also observed. Importantly, phylogenomic analysis indicated that PerR may be a universal engineering target in diverse Clostridium species. These findings will contribute to the development of robust C. tyrobutyricum strains for efficient butyric acid production in the food industry.
Is parent personality associated with adolescent outcomes for their child? A response surface analysis approach
Authors: Wright Amanda J. , Jackson Joshua J.
Published: January 2023

A parent has immense control over the experiences of their offspring. Given that personality is associated with important life outcomes—mediated through decision‐making processes—it is likely that parental personality impacts their child's life outcomes. While “compensatory” influences from another person have been identified in romantic partners, the impact of parent's personality on their child's outcomes has not been thoroughly examined. Using a response surface analysis approach, we will look at the associations of adolescent personality with the personality of their parents for the prediction of adolescent outcomes (Ndyads = 9395). Parent personality predicted outcomes for their child above and beyond their child's traits. There were few instances of child–parent personality interactions, suggesting the mechanisms linking child and parent traits to child outcomes are largely independent. Findings suggest parents’ personalities offer a unique influence on the outcomes for children while they develop and navigate through adolescence.

Highlights

This paper investigated if parental Big Five personality traits predicted outcomes for their child in adolescence, above and beyond the child's own traits.

Response surface analyses indicated that parent personality does predict outcomes for their adolescent child, with few interaction or similarity effects emerging.

These findings suggest the Big Five traits of parents are impactful in the child and parent relationship and can uniquely influence outcomes for the child above and beyond their own traits.
Factors influencing functional near‐infrared spectroscopy in postpartum depression: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Song Zicheng , Zhou Yang , Zheng Yuanyi , Huang Wenjun , Meng Zheying , Li Huiying , Jiang Rongzhen , Teng Yincheng , Tao Minfang
Published: January 2023

Objective

To explore whether functional near‐infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) can aid in the early detection and diagnosis of postpartum depression.

Methods

The study was a cross‐sectional survey that invited all women who sought postpartum health examination 42 days after childbirth between August 2020 and January 2021. Personal information, Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), and well as fNIRS results were collected.

Results

In all, 109 individuals agreed to participate and completed the examination in its entirety. The variance in integral and centroid values was not statistically significant across different subgroups of depression (P > 0.05). The difference in diagnosis of postpartum major depression between EPDS and fNIRS was statistically significant (P < 0.001). fNIRS results in postpartum depression diagnosis were substantially associated with gestational diabetes mellitus (P = 0.027), the number of pregnancies (P = 0.001), and postpartum body mass index (P = 0.035).

Conclusion

fNIRS can provide an objective method for early detection and diagnosis of postpartum depression. Certain clinical conditions can have an effect on brain activity, which may result in postpartum depression. Additional high‐quality study is required to establish strong evidence on the subject.
Characterization in respect to degradation of titanium‐coated polypropylene surgical mesh explanted from humans
Authors: Farr Nicholas T. H. , Klosterhalfen Bernd , Noé Günter K.
Published: January 2023

Titanium‐coated polypropylene (Ti‐PP) mesh was introduced in 2002 as a surgical mesh for the treatment of hernias and shortly after for pelvic floor surgery, with the aim of improving biocompatibility when compared to non‐titanised/regular PP mesh implants. The application of a titanium coating could also be beneficial to address concerns regarding the exposure of PP in an in vivo environment. Many studies have shown that PP, although it is widely accepted as a stable polymer, is subject to oxidation and degradation, such degradation affects the mechanical behavior, that is, the stiffness and tensile strength of PP mesh. Despite the wide clinical use of Ti‐PP surgical meshes, no study has yet investigated the residual material properties post clinical deployment and subsequent explantation. In this study, two explanted Ti‐PP mesh samples each having different incorporation durations from two patients were examined. Material analysis conducted within this study includes the following techniques: attenuated total reflectance‐Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR‐FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, low voltage – scanning electron microscopy (LV‐SEM), backscattered electron (BSE) imaging, energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS) and secondary election hyperspectral imaging (SEHI). The hypothesis of this study is that the Ti coating successfully shields the PP mesh from oxidative stress in vivo and thus protects it from degradation. The results of this analysis show for the first time evidence of bulk oxidation, surface degradation, and environmental stress cracking on explanted Ti‐PP meshes.
Bank lending behaviour and systemic banking crisis in Africa: The role of regulatory framework
Authors: Ofori‐Sasu Daniel , Agbloyor Elikplimi Komla , Kuttu Saint , Abor Joshua Yindenaba
Published: January 2023

We examine how regulatory framework shapes the impact of bank lending behaviour on the probability of systemic banking crisis by using data from 52 African countries over the period 2006–2018. The study found that banks that lend beyond a certain level of threshold have the greater probability of causing a systemic banking crisis. The study provides empirical evidence in support of the argument that above average lending behaviour reduces the predicted probability of a systemic banking crisis in the presence of audit independence, at stringent–capital regulatory requirement, central bank independence and monetary policy framework.
Educational expansion and shifting private returns to education: Evidence from Mozambique
Authors: Jones Sam , Sohnesen Thomas Pave , Trifkovic Neda
Published: January 2023

We examine how returns to education have evolved in the context of post‐conflict reconstruction and economic growth in Mozambique over the period 1996–2015. We show that private rates of return to education have declined at lower levels of schooling, but remained stable and possibly even increased at the highest levels. Returns are increasingly convex in non‐agricultural jobs but almost flat in agriculture. Using consumption expenditure data, as opposed to income data, allows estimation of returns for the entire labour market, not just the minority in formal sector jobs. Results are robust to a wide range of specifications, including use of a pseudo‐panel.