bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Problématique De La Réalisation Des Accords Dans Les Contrats Entre La Mairie Et Les Entreprises Privées Pour L’assainissement De La Ville De Butembo/RD. Congo
Authors: Et ASS Par Prof. Katembo Kamavu Pétillon
Published: January 2025

Le présent travail est circonscrit dans le domaine de l’assainissement et se propose dénicher les causes de
rupture des contrats et/ ou leur non renouvèlement en cas de partenariat public - privé dans ce domaine en ville
de Butembo.
Pour y parvenir, nous avons usé des méthodes fonctionnalistes et analytiques accompagnées des techniques
documentaires, de l'interview et du questionnement.
Les résultats de la présente étude ont montré que 100% des entreprises privées qui ont intervenues dans
l’assainissement en ville de BUTEMBO ont conclus chacune un seul contrat jusqu'à ce mois de mai 2024 ;
après une seule échéance, les intervenants abandonnent le projet.
Quant à ce qui concerne les facteurs qui découragent les initiatives, 100% des intervenants classent la
"Cautionʺ à payer par les contractants. A la première position figure l'insolvabilité des bénéficiaires
(redevables à la taxe dite«ville propre » ), à la deuxième place, se place le non accompagnement de l'autorité urbaine, à la troisième position, l'immensité des immondices à la quatrième position et enfin, le moyen logistique à la cinquième place
International Perspectives on Modifications to the Surgical Safety Checklist
Authors: Turley Nathan , Elam Meagan , Brindle Mary E.
Published: June 2023

Importance

Modification of the World Health Organization’s Surgical Safety Checklist (SSC) is a critical component of its implementation. To facilitate the SSC’s use, it is important to know how surgical teams modify their SSCs, their reasons for making modifications, and the opportunities and challenges teams face in SSC tailoring.

Objective

To study SSC modifications in high-income hospital settings in 5 countries: Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United States, and the United Kingdom.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This qualitative study used semistructured interviews based on the survey used in the quantitative study. Each interviewee was asked a core set of questions and various follow-up questions based on their survey responses. Interviews were conducted from July 2019 to February 2020 in person and online using teleconferencing software. Surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, and hospital administrators from the 5 countries were recruited through a survey and snowball sampling.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Interviewees’ attitudes and perceptions on SSC modifications and their perceived impact on operating rooms.

Results

A total of 51 surgical team members and hospital administrators from the 5 countries were interviewed (37 [75%] with >10 years of service; 28 [55%] women). There were 15 (29%) surgeons, 13 (26%) nurses, 15 (29%) anesthesiologists, and 8 (16%) health administrators. Five themes emerged concerning the awareness and involvement in SSC modifications; reasons for modifications; types of modifications; the outcomes of modifications; and perceived barriers to SSC modifications. Based on the interviews, some SSCs may go many years without being revisited or modified. SSCs are modified to ensure they address local issues and standards of practice and that they are fit for purpose. Modifications are also made following adverse events to reduce the risk of reoccurrence. Interviewees described adding, moving, and removing elements from their SSCs, which increased their sense of ownership in their SSC and participation in its performance. Some barriers to modification included leadership and the SSC’s inclusion in hospitals’ electronic medical record.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this qualitative study of surgical team members and administrators, interviewees described addressing contemporary surgical issues through various SSC modifications. The process of SSC modification may improve team cohesion and buy-in in addition to providing opportunities for teams to improve patient safety.
Automatic Surgical Skill Assessment System Based on Concordance of Standardized Surgical Field Development Using Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Igaki Takahiro , Kitaguchi Daichi , Matsuzaki Hiroki , Nakajima Kei , Kojima Shigehiro , Hasegawa Hiro , Takeshita Nobuyoshi , Kinugasa Yusuke , Ito Masaaki
Published: June 2023

Importance

Automatic surgical skill assessment with artificial intelligence (AI) is more objective than manual video review–based skill assessment and can reduce human burden. Standardization of surgical field development is an important aspect of this skill assessment.

Objective

To develop a deep learning model that can recognize the standardized surgical fields in laparoscopic sigmoid colon resection and to evaluate the feasibility of automatic surgical skill assessment based on the concordance of the standardized surgical field development using the proposed deep learning model.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective diagnostic study used intraoperative videos of laparoscopic colorectal surgery submitted to the Japan Society for Endoscopic Surgery between August 2016 and November 2017. Data were analyzed from April 2020 to September 2022.

Interventions

Videos of surgery performed by expert surgeons with Endoscopic Surgical Skill Qualification System (ESSQS) scores higher than 75 were used to construct a deep learning model able to recognize a standardized surgical field and output its similarity to standardized surgical field development as an AI confidence score (AICS). Other videos were extracted as the validation set.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Videos with scores less than or greater than 2 SDs from the mean were defined as the low- and high-score groups, respectively. The correlation between AICS and ESSQS score and the screening performance using AICS for low- and high-score groups were analyzed.

Results

The sample included 650 intraoperative videos, 60 of which were used for model construction and 60 for validation. The Spearman rank correlation coefficient between the AICS and ESSQS score was 0.81. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves for the screening of the low- and high-score groups were plotted, and the areas under the ROC curve for the low- and high-score group screening were 0.93 and 0.94, respectively.

Conclusions and Relevance

The AICS from the developed model strongly correlated with the ESSQS score, demonstrating the model’s feasibility for use as a method of automatic surgical skill assessment. The findings also suggest the feasibility of the proposed model for creating an automated screening system for surgical skills and its potential application to other types of endoscopic procedures.
Biochemical characterization of Mycobacterium tuberculosis dihydroorotate dehydrogenase and identification of a selective inhibitor
Authors: Alberti Marta , Sainas Stefano , Ronchi Erika , Lolli Marco L. , Boschi Donatella , Rizzi Menico , Ferraris Davide M. , Miggiano Riccardo
Published: June 2023

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) is the etiologic agent of tuberculosis (TB), an ancient disease which causes 1.5 million deaths worldwide. Dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH) is a key enzyme of the MTB de novo pyrimidine biosynthesis pathway, and it is essential for MTB growth in vitro, hence representing a promising drug target. We present: (i) the biochemical characterization of the full‐length MTB DHODH, including the analysis of the kinetic parameters, and (ii) the previously unreleased crystal structure of the protein that allowed us to rationally screen our in‐house chemical library and identify the first selective inhibitor of mycobacterial DHODH. The inhibitor has fluorescence properties, potentially instrumental to in cellulo imaging studies, and exhibits an IC50 value of 43 μm, paving the way to hit‐to‐lead process.
Solvent‐Driven Transformation of Microsized Metal Particles into a Nanoporous Structure and Its Application to Ultrafast‐Charging Batteries
Authors: Kim Young‐Hoon , An Jae‐Hyun , Li Xiangmei , Moon Joo‐Yeon , Yu Hooam , Ahn Hyo‐Jun , Lee Jae‐Chul
Published: June 2023

The coalescence of metal nanoparticles in colloidal solutions is a universal and ubiquitous phenomenon. Using this behavior, a simple yet effective route is developed that enables the spontaneous transformation of microsized metals into nanoporous structures in specific electrolyte solvents. The criteria for selecting solvents and counterpart metals suitable for generating nanoporous structures are derived based on the classical theory of acid–base reactions and quantum chemistry based on density functional theory. When employing the developed method for anodes for Na‐ion batteries, the anodes prepared using microsized Sn, Pb, Bi, and CuS particles store 592, 423, 383, and 546 mAh g−1, respectively, at 10 C with cycling lifetimes of 3000−6000 cycles. This study provides fundamental framework for selecting solvents to realize low‐cost anodes with large capacities, long cycling lifetimes, and excellent rate performances. Moreover, the findings can be extended to other functional materials that can exploit their large specific surface areas.
Heptamethine Cyanine‐Based Nanotheranostics with Catalase‐Like Activity for Synergistic Phototherapy of Cancer
Authors: Liang Mingchen , Mu Xueluer , Li Yue , Tan Yuanhang , Hao Xiaoying , Tang Ying , Wang Zigeng , Feng Wenbi , Lu Yingxi , Zhou Xianfeng
Published: June 2023

Single‐molecule photosensitizers (PSs) for synergistic phototherapy are desirable but highly challenging, due to the competitive relationship between photothermal (PTT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT). Herein, a supramolecular strategy is developed that can tune the stacking pattern of PS molecules in their aggregates to optimize the PTT/PDT efficiency. Specifically, near‐infrared (NIR) heptamethine cyanines (Cy7) are synthesized using tricyanofuran (TCF) as the acceptor and benzothiazole (BTH)/indole (IND) as the donor, where BTH is a less hydrogen‐bonded tecton relative to IND. Both IND‐Cy7‐TCF and BTH‐Cy7‐TCF have similar photophysical properties at the molecular level, but BTH‐Cy7‐TCF in aggregated state exhibits higher singlet oxygen quantum yield (1.3% vs 0.2%) and competitive photothermal conversion efficiency (56.4% vs 62.3%) compared to IND‐Cy7‐TCF, due to the fine‐tuning of hydrogen bonding and intermolecular π–π interactions to form loose molecular stacks. Interestingly, the unique molecular stacking structure provides a binding site and catalytic center for H2O2 that exhibits catalase‐like activity, which can further ameliorate the efficiency of PDT and enhance the synergistic effect of PDT/PTT phototherapy in vitro and in vivo. This study can provide a simple but effective supramolecular strategy to design small molecule PSs with desirable aggregated structure for synergistic dual‐mode phototherapy.
Harnessing Anti‐Parity‐Time Phase Transition in Coupled Topological Photonic Valley Waveguides
Authors: Xie Xinrong , Wei Maoliang , Yang Yumeng , Li Yuanzhen , Lei Kunhao , Zhang Zijian , Wang Chi , Zhong Chuyu , Li Lan , Wang Zuojia , Sha Wei E. I. , Li Erping , Xue Haoran , Yang Zhaoju , Yuan Luqi , Chen Hongsheng , Lin Hongtao , Gao Fei
Published: June 2023

Topological and non‐Hermitian physics provide powerful tools for manipulating light in different ways. Recently, intense studies have converged on the interplay between topology and non‐Hermiticity, and have produced fruitful results in various photonic settings. Currently, the realization of this interplay falls under the paradigm of enabling energy exchange between topological systems and the environment. Beyond this paradigm, it is revealed that a non‐Hermitian phenomenon, i.e., the anti‐parity‐time phase transition, naturally emerges from a Hermitian system realized by coupled topological valley waveguides. Such phase transition gives two exotic topological superstates in the spectral domain. By further combining the two phases with topological robustness, a photonic topological bi‐functional device is realized on a silicon‐on‐insulator platform at telecommunications frequencies. The results provide a new perspective on light manipulation and integrated device applications.
Magnetic Hydrogel Microrobots Delivery System for Deafness Prevention
Authors: Chen Hong , Zhang Hui , Dai Yanhong , Zhu Haofang , Hong Guodong , Zhu Chengwen , Qian Xiaoyun , Chai Renjie , Gao Xia , Zhao Yuanjin
Published: June 2023

Hydrogel microrobots have blazed new avenues for local drug administration, while their values in inner ear drug delivery remain to be explored. Here, novel magnetic alpha‐lipoic acid (ALA)‐conjugated gelatin methacryloyl hydrogel microrobots are presented for inner ear drug delivery and deafness prevention. The magnetic hydrogel microrobots with features of slow drug release, targeted movement, and biosafety are generated from microfluidic devices. After intratympanic injection, the microrobots can be oriented in the middle ear cavity under a specific magnetic field. In addition, the ALA drug released from the magnetic hydrogel microrobots can remain in the inner ear for a long time. Based on these advantages, the practical value of the magnetic hydrogel microrobots in deafness prevention is demonstrated by pre‐injecting them in the middle ear of cisplatin‐deafened mice. These results indicate that the proposed smart magnetic hydrogel microrobots can effectively deliver drugs to the inner ear through the middle ear drug delivery route, thus opening a new chapter for middle ear deafness treatment.
Alternating Magnetic Field‐Enhanced Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Low‐Speed Flow Energy Harvesting
Authors: Zhang Baosen , Gao Qi , Li Wenbo , Zhu Mingkang , Li Hengyu , Cheng Tinghai , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: June 2023

Low‐speed flow energy, such as breezes and rivers, which are abundant in smart agriculture and smart cities, faces significant challenges in efficient harvesting as an untapped sustainable energy source. This study proposes an alternating magnetic field‐enhanced triboelectric nanogenerator (AMF‐TENG) for low‐speed flow energy harvesting, and demonstrates its feasibility through experimental results. AMF‐TENG's minimum cut‐in speed is 1 m s−1, thereby greatly expanding its wind energy harvesting range. When the wind speed is 1–5 m s−1, the open‐circuit voltage (VOC) is 20.9–179.3 V. The peak power is 0.68 mW at 5 m s−1. In a durability test of 100 K cycles, the VOC decreases from 188.4 to 174.2 V but remain at 92.5% of the initial value. furthermore, the AMF‐TENG can harvest low‐speed flow energy from the natural environment to power temperature and humidity sensors and wireless light intensity sensor in smart agriculture. This study provides a promising method for low‐speed flow energy harvesting in distributed applications.
Mechanobiology of Ferroptotic Cancer Cells as a Novel “Eat‐Me” Signal: Regulating Efferocytosis through Layer‐by‐Layer Coating
Authors: Van der Meeren Louis , Efimova Iuliia , Demuynck Robin , Parakhonskiy Bogdan , Krysko Dmitri V. , Skirtach Andre G.
Published: June 2023

The importance of the clearance of dead cells is shown to have a regulatory role for normal tissue homeostasis and for the modulation of immune responses. However, how mechanobiological properties of dead cells affect efferocytosis remains largely unknown. Here, it is reported that the Young's modulus of cancer cells undergoing ferroptosis is reduced. To modulate their Young's modulus a layer‐by‐layer (LbL) nanocoating is developed. Scanning electron and fluorescence microscopy confirm coating efficiency of ferroptotic cells while atomic force microscopy reveals encapsulation of the dead cells increases their Young's modulus dependent on the number of applied LbL layers which increases their efferocytosis by primary macrophages. This work demonstrates the crucial role of mechanobiology of dead cells in regulating their efferocytosis by macrophages which can be exploited for the development of novel therapeutic strategies for diseases where modulation of efferocytosis can be potentially beneficial and for the design of drug delivery systems for cancer therapy.
Video‐Rate Switching of High‐Reflectivity Hybrid Cavities Spanning All Primary Colors
Authors: Xiong Kunli , Olsson Oliver , Rossi Stefano , Wang Gan , Jonsson Magnus P. , Dahlin Andreas , Baumberg Jeremy J.
Published: June 2023

Dynamically tunable reflective structural colors are attractive for reflective displays (electronic paper). However, it is challenging to tune a thin layer of structural color across the full red–green–blue (RGB) basis set of colors at video rates and with long‐term stability. In this work, this is achieved through a hybrid cavity built from metal–insulator–metal (MIM) “nanocaves” and an electrochromic polymer (PProDOTMe2). The reflective colors are modulated by electrochemically doping/dedoping the polymer. Compared with traditional subpixel‐based systems, this hybrid structure provides high reflectivity (>40%) due to its “monopixel” nature and switches at video rates. The polymer bistability helps deliver ultralow power consumption (≈2.5 mW cm−2) for video display applications and negligible consumption (≈3 µW cm−2) for static images, compatible with fully photovoltaic powering. In addition, the color uniformity of the hybrid material is excellent (over cm−2) and the scalable fabrication enables large‐area production.
Ultra‐Uniform and Functionalized Nano‐Ion Divider for Regulating Ion Distribution toward Dendrite‐Free Lithium‐Metal Batteries
Authors: He Qiu , Li Zhaohuai , Wu Mingwei , Xie Ming , Bu Fanxing , Zhang Huazhang , Yu Ruohan , Mai Liqiang , Zhao Yan
Published: June 2023

Ionic dividers with uniform pores and functionalized surfaces display significant potential for solving Li‐dendrite issues in Li‐metal batteries. In this study, single metal and nitrogen co‐doped carbon‐sandwiched MXene (M‐NC@MXene) nanosheets are designed and fabricated, which possess highly ordered nanochannels with a diameter of ≈10 nm. The experiments and computational calculations verified that the M‐NC@MXene nanosheets eliminate Li dendrites in several ways: (1) redistributing the Li‐ion flux via the highly ordered ion channels, (2) selectively conducting Li ions and anchoring anions by heteroatom doping to extend the nucleation time for Li dendrites, and (3) tightly staggering on a routine polypropylene (PP) separator to obstruct the growth path of Li dendrites. With a Zn‐NC@MXene‐coated PP divider, the assembled Li||Li symmetric battery shows an ultralow overpotential of ≈25 mV and a cycle life of 1500 h at a high current density of 3 mA cm−2 and high capacity of 3 mAh cm−2. Remarkably, the life of a Li||Ni83 pouch cell with an energy density of 305 Wh kg−1 is improved by fivefold. Moreover, the remarkable performance of Li||Li, Li||LiFePO4, and Li||sulfur batteries reveal the significant potential of the well‐designed multifunctional ion divider for further practical applications.
Additive Manufacturing of Liquid Crystal Elastomer Actuators Based on Knitting Technology
Authors: Sun Jiahao , Liao Wei , Yang Zhongqiang
Published: June 2023

Liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) exhibits large and reversible deformability originating from the alignment of liquid crystal mesogens. Additive manufacturing provides high controllability in the alignment and shaping process of LCE actuators. However, it still remains a challenge to customize LCE actuators with both diverse 3D deformability and recyclability. In this study, a new strategy is developed to exploit knitting technique to additively manufacture LCE actuators. The obtained LCE actuators are fabric‐structured with designed geometry and deformability. By accurately adjusting the parameters of the knitting patterns as modules, diverse geometry is pixel‐wise designed, and complex 3D deformations including bending, twisting, and folding are quantitatively controlled. In addition, the fabric‐structured LCE actuators can be threaded, stitched, and reknitted to achieve advanced geometry, integrated multi‐functions and efficient recyclability. This approach allows the fabrication of versatile LCE actuators with potential applications in smart textiles and soft robots.
Extremeγ‐Ray Radiation Tolerance of Spectrometer‐Grade CsPbBr3Perovskite Detectors
Authors: De Siena Michael C. , Klepov Vladislav V. , Stepanoff Sergei P. , Bayikadi Khasim Saheb , Pan Lei , Pandey Indra R. , Karki Sujita , Chung Duck Young , Wolfe Douglas E. , Kanatzidis Mercouri G.
Published: June 2023

The perovskite compound CsPbBr3has recently been discovered as a promising room‐temperature semiconductor radiation detector, offering an inexpensive and easy‐to‐manufacture alternative to the current benchmark material Cd1−xZnxTe (CZT). The performance of CsPbBr3sensors is evaluated under harsh conditions, such as high radiation doses often found in industrial settings and extreme radiation in space. Results show minimal degradation in detector performance after exposure to 1 Mrad of Co‐60 gamma radiation, with no significant change to energy resolution or hole mobility and lifetime. Additionally, many of the devices are still functional after being exposed to a 10 Mrad dose over 3 days, and those that do not survive can still be refabricated into working detectors. These results suggest that the failure mode in these devices is likely related to the interface between the electrode and material and their reaction, or the electrode itself and not the material itself. Overall, the study suggests that CsPbBr3has high potential as a reliable and efficient radiation detector in various applications, including those involving extreme fluxes and energies of gamma‐ray radiation.
Effects of pipeline and well‐pad reclamation on topsoil properties: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Birkhimer Nicholas , DeSutter Thomas M. , Jore Kyle , Staricka James , Meehan Miranda
Published: June 2023

The development of horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracking has led to an increase in oil and natural gas extraction. Development of infrastructure to extract and transport these resources is expected to increase over the next few decades, resulting in extensive land disturbance. Although reclamation aims to sufficiently return disturbed lands to their pre‐disturbance use in an ecological sense, reclaimed rights‐of‐ways (ROW) commonly produce reduced crop yields. The objective of this study was to use meta‐analysis to determine soil disturbance trends across studies found in the peer‐reviewed literature. Papers that reported soil property data on disturbed ROWs and adjacent undisturbed sites were retrieved by searching the Web of Science database. Papers were separated by climate regions, resulting in analyses being conducted for studies in semiarid and humid climate regions. Results indicate that soil bulk density, soil organic matter, and pH are significantly increased on reclaimed ROWs. Soil metrics not incorporated in meta‐analysis due to insufficient observations or the possible presence of publication biases like a desire to publish significant results and poor study design (cation exchange capacity, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, total nitrogen, electrical conductivity, sodium, sodium adsorption ratio, and texture) are assessed and discussed. Best management practices gleaned from studies incorporated into meta‐analysis are discussed to provide strategies to limit soil property disturbances.
Field pea/spring triticale mixtures influenced iron and manganese concentrations in soil and forage plant uptake
Authors: Płaza Anna , Górski Rafał , Rudziński Robert , Rosa Robert
Published: June 2023

The use of legumes for cultivation in mixtures with cereals has a positive effect not only on the yield of green mass but also on its chemical composition. This research evaluated the influence of different seeding rate proportions of field pea (Pisum sativum L.) with spring triticale (×Triticosecale Wittm.) at different growth stages on Fe and Mn contents in soil and plants. The two factors examined in the study were as follows: proportional seeding rate of components in the mixture (kg ha−1)—field pea/spring triticale 240:0, 180:55, 120:110, 60:165, and 0:220; and harvest stage—field pea flowering versus field pea flat green pod. The greatest soil contents of Fe at 952 mg kg−1 and Mn at 102.2 mg kg−1 were found in the soil at 0–30 cm depth following harvest of field pea. The greatest dry matter concentrations of Fe at 146 mg kg−1 and Mn at 68.5 mg kg−1 in the mixtures were determined in the forage of field pea/spring triticale at 180:55 harvested at the field pea flat green pod stage. The field experiment demonstrated that a 180:55 mixture of pea and spring triticale should be recommended for cultivation. This mixture provides the greatest Fe and Mn content in soil and forage for cattle.
A Rotationally Symmetric Multifocal Pearcey Beam with a Polygonal Profile
Authors: Huang Qiaobin , Wang Xinyue , Tu Jialong , Xu Danlin , Deng Dongmei
Published: June 2023

The polygonal multifocal propagation properties and particle trapping experiments of a new kind of power‐exponential‐phase vortex chirped circular Pearcey Gaussian beam are investigated. Theoretical and experimental results show that it is possible to adjust the position and transverse spatial distribution of the beam in focal plane, as well as to make the transverse intensity distribution emerge an arbitrary polygonal profile by changing the distribution factor and vortex topological charge. Stable trapping of multiple particles is achieved in the experiment with transverse intensity fields in the polygon plane with different topological charges.
Catalyst‐Free Three‐Component Petasis Reactions Accelerated in Microdroplets: Reaction Optimization and Senstive Detection by Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Jin Xiaoxiao , Wu Yikang , Sun Jiannan , Liu Jinhua , Cheng Heyong
Published: June 2023

Due to their important roles in medicine, the product of the Petasis reaction has attracted extensive interest in pharmaceutical, medical and chemical communities. Traditional three‐component Petasis methods normally use various catalysts under harsh conditions (high temperature, microwave, etc.) for long reaction times. In this study, we developed a green and highly efficient microdroplet method for accelerating the Petasis reaction, which obtain good yields without the need of any catalysts under mild reaction conditions. The Petasis reaction in microdroplets was suitable for a variety of salicylaldehydes, arylboronic acids and amines. The Petasis reaction in microdroplets was accelerated by approximately 4 orders of magnitude by comparing the measured rate constants in bulk. Further, a scaled‐up amount of 0.8 g h−1 was achieved for the Petasis reaction in microdroplets. This study supplies not only a high‐efficiency and environment‐friendly methodology to constructing aryl amines in organic community but also a useful derivatization strategy for highly sensitive mass spectrometric detection of arylboronic acids and aryl aldehydes.
A measurement system for photoelectrochemical processes with high‐quality irradiation, temperature control, and automated gas analysis
Authors: Adner David , Pfordte Lorenz , Selle Milan , Pohl Max , Turek Marko , Hagendorf Christian
Published: June 2023

In this Application Note, a versatile and reliable measurement system for photoelectrochemical investigations is described which aims to assist scientists in obtaining reproducible photoelectrochemical data of high quality, including the solar‐to‐hydrogen (STH) efficiency. Specifically, it addresses the parameters irradiation quality, reaction temperature, and gas measurement. The setup is designed to exclude stray light and uses a solar‐grade mirror to reflect the light of a vertical solar simulator on the electrochemical cell. The light quality in the setup (»AAA«, IEC 60904‐9) is close to the classification of the solar simulator itself. The temperature in the electrochemical cell is controlled with an external Peltier element and can be kept constant in the range of 20–45°C. The influence of reaction temperature on the photocurrent of a WO3 photoanode is demonstrated. The gaseous reaction products are analyzed with a mobile gas chromatograph, using an automated measurement routine with discontinuous sampling from the electrochemical cell. The system is applied to determine the Faraday and STH efficiencies of a copper indium gallium selenide photocathode.
Operando small‐angle x‐ray scattering for battery research
Authors: Lee Jaeik , Park Hyeonji , Kim Hansol , Kim Taeyeob , Jin Minshi , Kim Taewhan , Kim Ji Man
Published: June 2023

With the rapid growth of secondary batteries used in various industries, methods for analyzing battery elements such as electrodes and electrolytes have also improved. In addition, as the utility of nano‐scaled electrode materials have attracted greater attention, it has become increasingly clear that conventional electrochemical analytic methods have limitations. Consequently, electron microscopy and even synchrotron x‐ray radiation techniques have been adopted and are now widely used. Among several advanced analytical techniques, synchrotron radiation‐based operando small‐angle x‐ray scattering (SAXS) enables real‐time analysis of changes in the ordering of nanostructures and in the electron densities of electrodes and solid electrolytes during electrochemical reactions. In this review, the principle and applications of operando SAXS are briefly introduced, to help in understanding the complex nanostructural behaviors of battery components used in secondary batteries, and furthermore, it is hoped to contribute to innovative materials design.
Covalent adaptive polymer networks for switchable adhesives
Authors: Moon Hwi Hyun , Cha Inhwan , Hegazy Hend A. , Kim Kyung‐su , Song Changsik
Published: June 2023

Adhesives that can switch their total adhesion strength on‐demand are a new class of materials and can have a broad utility in biomedicine and microelectronics, among others. Total adhesion strength can be modulated by the physical or chemical changes of materials induced by external stimuli, such as light, heat, or chemical species. A covalent adaptive network is a crosslinked polymer network whose topology or covalent connectivity changes in response to a stimulus (usually heat) and thus can alter its adhesive properties. In this review, we highlight recent developments in covalent adaptive networks utilized in switchable adhesives. Furthermore, we discuss the mechanisms of covalent bond exchange (associative or dissociative), focusing on molecular design to affect the total adhesion strength and reversibility, as well as unique features that can be leveraged for future adhesives.
POLRMT over‐expression is linked to WNT/beta‐catenin signaling, immune infiltration, and unfavorable outcomes in lung adenocarcinoma patients
Authors: Huang Yongkang , Qian Yajuan , Xing Yufei , Pei Yongjian , Zhang Beilei , Li Ting , Pan Xue , Zhong Anyuan , Du Juan , Zhou Tong , Shi Minhua
Published: June 2023

Background

Mitochondrial RNA polymerase (POLRMT) is essential for the expression of mitochondrial genes. In recent studies, POLRMT expression promoted non‐small cell cancer cell proliferation in cell lines and xenografts. The present study investigated the impact of POLRMT expression and function on lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) patients.

Method

Multi‐omics data (genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics) from publicly available databases were used to assess the role of POLRMT expression and function in LUAD. These findings were further verified using cancer tissues from clinical samples.

Results

POLRMT was over‐expressed in LUADs, with mutation frequencies ranging from 1.30% to 5.71%. Over‐expression of POLRMT was associated with an abnormal clinicopathological condition resulting in a decreased lifespan. Furthermore, gene sets enrich analysis revealed that POLRMT expression was linked to WNT/beta‐catenin signaling; the expression of downstream target genes was positively correlated with POLRMT expression. Also, POLRMT expression was positively correlated with immunosuppressive genes, thereby affecting immune infiltration.

Conclusion

POLRMT is over‐expressed in LUAD, thereby impacting patient survival. It is also involved in WNT/beta‐catenin signaling and may affect tumor infiltration.
Synthesis, Characterization, Antimicrobial and Antimalarial Activities of Azines Based Schiff Bases and their Pd(II) Complexes
Authors: Meena Kiran , Kumar Baroliya Prabhat
Published: June 2023

Herein, we report synthesis, characterization, antimicrobial and antimalarial activities of azines Schiff base ligands (L1−L4) and their palladium (II) complexes (C1−C4) of [Pd(L)(OAc)2] type. The azine ligands (L1−L4) were prepared by condensation of carbonyl compounds with hydrazine hydrate and their complexes by the reaction of palladium acetate with L1−L4ligands in 1 : 1 molar ratio. The prepared ligands and their complexes were characterized by spectral characterization using1H &13C‐NMR, FT‐IR and mass spectral studies, which revealed that the ligands coordinatesviaazomethine nitrogen and heteroatom or aryl carbon with palladium. Moreover, Schiff bases and their palladium (II) complexes have been screened for their antibacterial (S. aureus,B. subtillis, andS. typhi,P. aeruginosa), antifungal (C. albicans,A. niger,and A. clavatus) and antimalarial (P. falciparum) activities. The Schiff baseL4showed good results for antibacterial againstS. aureus(MIC, 50 μg/mL) and antimalarial againstP. falciparum(IC50, 0.83 μg/mL). The complexC1showed best antibacterial activity (MIC, 62.5 μg/mL) againstS. typhiand the complexC4exhibited remarkable antimalarial activity (IC50, 0.42 μg/mL) among the tested compounds. Thus, azines based ligands and their Pd complexes can be good antimicrobial and antimalarial agents if explored further.
Separation of Antioxidant‐Rich Alternanthera Sessilis Red Extracts by Sephadex LH‐20 and Identification of Polyphenols Using HPLC‐QToF‐MS/MS
Authors: Hwong Chia Shing , Leong Kok Hoong , Aziz Azlina Abdul , Kong Kin Weng
Published: June 2023

This study aimed to fractionate Alternanthera sessilis Red (ASR) crude extracts and determine their antioxidant activities as well as the related active components in the whole plant. ASR was extracted with water and ethanol, and further separated using a Sephadex LH‐20 column. Following the assessments of the polyphenolic contents and antioxidant activities of crude extracts (H2OASR and EtOHASR) and fractions, a HPLC‐QToF analysis was performed on the crude extracts and selected fractions (H2OASR FII and EtOHASR FII). Three water fractions (H2OASR FI, FII and FIII) and four ethanolic fractions (EtOHASR FI, FII, FIII and FIV) were derived from their crude extracts, respectively. EtOHASR FII exhibited the greatest total phenolic content (120.41 mg GAE/g fraction), total flavonoid content (223.07 mg RE/g fraction), and antioxidant activities (DPPH IC50=159.43 μg/mL; FRAP=1.93 mmol Fe2+/g fraction; TEAC=0.90 mmol TE/g fraction). Correlation analysis showed significant (p<0.01) positive correlations between both TPC (r=0.748–0.970) and TFC (r=0.686–0.949) with antioxidant activities in the crude extracts and fractions. Flavonoids were the major compounds in the four selected samples tentatively identified using HPLC‐QToF‐MS/MS, with the highest number of 30 polyphenol compounds detected in the most active fraction, EtOHASR FII.
Noble Metals in Recent Developments of Heterogeneous Catalysts for CO2Conversion Processes
Authors: Vieira Luiz H. , Rasteiro Letícia F. , Santana Cássia S. , Catuzo Gabriel L. , da Silva Alisson H. M. , Assaf José M. , Assaf Elisabete M.
Published: June 2023

Following the advances in capture technologies, CO2utilization associated with low‐cost renewable H2in catalytic hydrogenation is a promising strategy for reducing the carbon footprint of industrial processes by providing valuable chemicals and fuels. However, the scalability and economic viability of these processes will depend on the development of efficient catalysts. Noble metal‐based catalysts have been extensively reported in the last few years as highly effective in promoting CO2hydrogenation to various products. Although promising, the scarcity, high cost, and environmental impact of mining make it challenging to scale up these materials from bench to plant. Developing advanced synthesis and characterization methods is essential to control and understand active sites’ behavior during the reaction, providing high activity and durability. This review carefully summarizes the recently reported noble metal‐based heterogeneous catalysts for thermocatalytic conversion of CO2into methane, carbon monoxide, methanol, formic acid, higher alcohols, C2+hydrocarbons, and syngas through dry reforming of CH4, to draw the state‐of‐the‐art development in the field. Finally, we critically discuss the impact of these elements on catalyst properties, the challenges related to their implementation, and future research opportunities.
Allosteric Tuning of Caspase‐7: Establishing the Nexus of Structure and Catalytic Power
Authors: Hobbs Kathryn F. , Propp Jonah , Vance Nicholas R. , Kalenkiewicz Andrew , Witkin Katie R. , Spies M. Ashley
Published: June 2023

Invited for the cover of this issue is the group of Michael Ashley Spies at the University of Iowa. The image depicts how mapping allosteric structure–activity relationships reveals the nexus between the active site and the remote allosteric pocket. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.202300872.
Tiefkalt auf Kurs
Authors: Homburg Claudia
Published: June 2023

LNG und LPG gehören zu den Schweröl‐Alternativen in der Schifffahrt. Um den Tank‐Füllstand in LNG‐Container‐, Kreuzfahrtschiffe und Fähren zu messen, sind besonders kälte‐unempfindliche Füllstandsensoren mit 80 GHz‐Radar‐Messtechnik geeignet.
Sichere Prozesse im Prüflabor
Authors: Kamke Alexander , Diel Thomas , Karbowiak Marvin
Published: June 2023

Prüflabore für chemische Sensoren müssen zuverlässige Ergebnisse liefern und die Prüfstände müssen je nach Anforderung des Auftraggebers zügig umgerüstet werden können. Die Unternehmen Reiss aus Weinheim und Jumo aus Fulda haben eine Lösung entwickelt, die hohe Prozesssicherheit bietet. Mit ihr lässt sich die unternehmenseigene Hardware einsetzen und bedienerfreundliche und flexibel neu programmieren.
Early bird gets the network: The relative importance of reactivity ratios, Ψ parameter, and crosslinker level on gel formation in FRP
Authors: Lin Yung‐Chun , Liu Chang , Tripathi Amit K. , Tsavalas John G.
Published: June 2023

Network topology is manipulated in free‐radical copolymerization via proper selection of crosslinker type and its respective properties when paired with specific monomers. Our prior work has focused on the impact of the reduced reactivity parameter Ψ applied to a pendent vinyl, characteristic for each monomer/crosslinker pair, yet here we assess the relative importance of the comonomer reactivity ratios to see whether one factor can counterbalance the other. The traditional reactivity ratio determines when the crosslinker molecule is incorporated into the polymer backbone, while the reduced reactivity Ψ parameter relates to the efficiency of the resulting pendent side chain vinyl being utilized to form a crosslink node at some later point during the polymerization. Both factors are then contrasted with simply the overall loading of crosslinker. Either n‐butyl methacrylate (n‐BMA) or styrene (STY) was chosen as a primary backbone monomer to copolymerize with one of three crosslinkers: 1,4‐butanediol dimethacylate (BDDMA), 1,4‐butanediol diacrylate (BDDA), or divinylbenzene (DVB). Both kinetics and gel can be most dramatically boosted when a crosslinker is applied having a reactivity ratio favouring early insertion. This in turn leads to an earlier onset of gel formation, which ultimately results in greater final gel content. This amplification of both kinetics and gel can overcome an otherwise small Ψ due to crosslinker or main monomer choice. This reactivity ratio effect was further confirmed by Monte Carlo simulations. By whatever mechanism (higher Ψ, lower rA, or higher crosslinker level), earlier onset of gelation produces more gel overall and a tighter network topology.
Using polymer adsorption data and a population balance model to estimate how polymer dosage affects the flocculation of oil sands tailings
Authors: Dixon Daniel V. , Soares João B. P.
Published: June 2023

Population balance models can describe how particles aggregate and fragment during the flocculation of mineral tailings. We used a new method to estimate some of the parameters in a population balance model describing the flocculation of oil sands mature fine tailings with poly(vinyl benzyl trimethylammonium chloride). Differently from previous population balance models, the polymer adsorption data onto the particles suspended in the tailings were used to estimate a fundamental parameter relating polymer dosage to the mean diameter of the aggregates formed during flocculation. The model could predict the flocculation behaviour of three polymer samples with different molecular weights. This model is another step toward a quantitative understanding of how polymer properties affect the flocculation of mineral tailings.
Phenanthroline Derivatives as Efficient Organic Photocatalysts for Visible‐Light‐Mediated PET‐RAFT Polymerization
Authors: Xiao Yang , Hu Wanchao , Xia Zhinan , Shi Bingfeng , Lü Changli
Published: June 2023

Comprehensive Summary

Phenanthroline is an excellent and stable π‐electron acceptor with a large conjugated chromophore. Phenanthroline derivatives are widely used in adsorption, photodegradation, solar cells, biology, and so on. At present, there are still limited organic molecules utilized to efficiently photocatalyze reversible‐deactivation radical polymerization (RDRP). Therefore, the design of organic photocatalysts (OPCs) for RDRP remains a challenge. Herein, according to the strategy of combining the donor groups and weak acceptor groups, donor‐acceptor (D‐A) type OPCs based on phenanthroline were utilized for the first time in photoinduced electron transfer‐reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (PET‐RAFT) polymerization. 1,10‐Phenanthroline‐5‐amine (Aphen) with a donor group‐amino was screened out for efficacious photo‐controlled radical polymerization under blue light for various monomers with conjugated and unconjugated structures with high monomer conversion and well‐defined narrow dispersity polymers (Đ < 1.20). Controllable homo‐polymers and block copolymers were successfully realized by chain extension reaction and block copolymerization of structurally diverse monomers.
Fluctuation exponents of the KPZ equation on a large torus
Authors: Dunlap Alexander , Gu Yu , Komorowski Tomasz
Published: June 2023

We study the one‐dimensional KPZ equation on a large torus, started at equilibrium. The main results are optimal variance bounds in the super‐relaxation regime and part of the relaxation regime.
The effect of therapist characteristics on the use and outcome of systematic client feedback in outpatient mental healthcare
Authors: Bovendeerd Bram , de Jong Kim , de Groot Erik , Moerbeek Mirjam , Hafkenscheid Anton , de Keijser Jos
Published: June 2023

Objective

Therapist characteristics are known to affect treatment outcome in general and could also influence the use of systematic client feedback (SCF). The current study explores the effect of feedback orientation, regulatory focus, self‐efficacy, attitude towards feedback resources and perceived feedback validity on the use and outcome of SCF in outpatient mental healthcare.

Method

The data of therapists (n = 12) and patients (n = 504) of two outpatient centres offering brief psychological treatment were analysed when SCF, based on the Partners for Change Outcome Management System (PCOMS), was added to treatment as usual. The data of therapists were obtained through a therapist questionnaire composed of relevant characteristics from feedback studies in social and organizational psychology. The effect on the use of SCF was analysed using logistic regression; whereas, the effect on outcome was assessed using a two‐level multilevel analysis. Regular use of SCF and the Outcome Questionnaire (OQ‐45) were used as outcome variables. DSM‐classification, sex and age of each patient were included as covariates.

Results

High perceived feedback validity significantly increased the use of SCF. No significant therapist characteristics effects were found on outcome, but high promotion focus was associated with treating more complex patients.

Conclusions

The perceived feedback validity of SCF is likely to have an influence on its use and is probably affected by the changes in the organizational climate.
Achieving sustainable business: The nexus between external sustainability assurance, CSR strategy and emission reduction
Authors: Issa Ayman , Hanaysha Jalal Rajeh
Published: June 2023

This study investigates the relationship between firm's emissions reduction initiative and external assurance of sustainability performance, as well as the moderating effect of corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategy. The study uses a sample of non‐financial firms listed on the STOXX Europe 600 index from 2006 to 2021. The findings suggest that external assurance of sustainability has a positive and significant impact on a firm's emissions reduction initiative. Additionally, the study finds that CSR strategy positively moderates the relationship between firm's emissions reduction initiative and external assurance of sustainability. The study's results have implications for managers, regulators, and stakeholders, indicating that external auditing for sustainability can enhance a firm's legitimacy and reputation and that strong CSR strategies can enhance the effectiveness of environmental initiatives. Our results demonstrate resilience to various econometric methods, sub‐sample analyses, propensity score matching, and generalized method of moments (GMM).
Mechanochemistry toward Organic “Salt” via Integer‐Charge‐Transfer Cocrystal Strategy for Rapid, Efficient, and Scalable Near‐Infrared Photothermal Conversion
Authors: Chen Shun‐Li , Zhang Meng‐Meng , Chen Jiecheng , Wen Xinyi , Chen Wenbin , Li Jiayu , Chen Ye‐Tao , Xiao Yonghong , Liu Huifen , Tan Qianqian , Zhu Tangjun , Ye Bowei , Yan Jiajun , Huang Yihang , Li Jie , Ni Shaofei , Dang Li , Li Ming‐De
Published: June 2023

Inspired by the concept of ionic charge‐transfer complexes for the Mott insulator, integer‐charge‐transfer (integer‐CT) cocrystals are designed for NIR photo‐thermal conversion (PTC). With amino‐styryl‐pyridinium dyes and F4TCNQ (7,7’,8,8’‐Tetracyano‐2,3,5,6‐tetrafluoroquinodimethane) serving as donor/acceptor (D/A) units, integer‐CT cocrystals, including amorphous stacking “salt” and segregated stacking “ionic crystal”, are synthesized by mechanochemistry and solution method, respectively. Surprisingly, the integer‐CT cocrystals are self‐assembled only through multiple D−A hydrogen bonds (C−H⋅⋅⋅X (X=N, F)). Strong charge‐transfer interactions in cocrystals contribute to the strong light‐harvesting ability at 200–1500 nm. Under 808 nm laser illumination, both the “salt” and “ionic crystal” display excellent PTC efficiency beneficial from ultrafast (∼2 ps) nonradiative decay of excited states. Thus integer‐CT cocrystals are potential candidates for rapid, efficient, and scalable PTC platforms. Especially amorphous “salt” with good photo/thermal stability is highly desirable in practical large‐scale solar‐harvesting/conversion applications in water environment. This work verifies the validity of the integer‐CT cocrystal strategy, and charts a promising path to synthesize amorphous PTC materials by mechanochemical method in one‐step.