bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphological and Pathogenic Variability in Alternaria solani Causing Early Blight Disease in Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) in Chhattisgarh, India
Authors: Singh Shyam , Jangre Anjeet
Published: February 2023

The variability is a well-known phenomenon in genus Alternaria solani and may be noticed as changes in etiology, growth and sporulation and pathogenicity. Therefore, present investigation was carried out on ‘morphological and pathogenic variability of Alternaria solani causing early blight in Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) in Chhattisgarh (India)’. Seven isolates of Alternaria solani were collected from different district of Chhattisgarh and studied on morphological and pathogenic variations among the isolates of Alternaria solani. Longest conidia with beak (39.17–74.35µm) were observed in isolate AS-6, while smallest conidia (28.12–58.35µm) were recorded in isolate AS-3. However, width of conidia was maximum (8.82–24.23µm) in isolate AS-3 and thin conidia (8.13 – 19.48µm width) in isolate AS-7. Maximum beak length (7.64–14.78µm) was observed in isolate AS-4 and minimum beak length was recorded in isolate AS-3 (4.18–7.62µm).  Highest vertical septa 2–11 was recorded in isolate AS-7 followed by AS-2. Whereas, maximum horizontal septa were recorded in isolate AS-6 followed by isolate AS-3 and AS-4.  Pathogenic variability test was performed to analyze the virulence of different isolates of Alternaria solani on Pusa Ruby variety of tomato under pot culture. Most virulent isolate was found AS-6 which exhibited maximum PDI (88.89%) and AUDPC (2302.22) followed by AS-5 and AS-7, while AS-1 was found least virulent which showed minimum PDI (40.00%) and AUDPC (995.56).
Impact the Antibiotic Resistance for Staphylococcus aureus in Hospitalized Cancer Patients in Erbil Governate, Iraq
Authors: A. Ali Fattma , Aziz Sabah Hanan , Abdulrahman Khalis Noor , Rzgar Hussien Payraw , Muhanad Ghanim Sara
Published: February 2023

Background: Infection is a continuous problem in cancer patient especially in developing countries. Multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus is among the most frequent complication in immunocompromised cancer patients and poses the greatest risk to immunocompromised cancer patients.

Objectives: Our study aimed to carry out a study on isolated Staphylococcus aureus from various clinical samples among cancer patients in Erbil city and analyze its epidemiology and antibiotics susceptibility pattern tests and multi-drug resistance.

Materials and Methods: A total of 865 from 2016 until 2020 were isolated Staphylococcus aureus from 6 clinical samples (Urine, Sputum, Wound swab, Nasal swab, Bloodand, Stool) from patient attending Nanakaly Hospital and from both males and females. Only 100 cases had been identified as isolates of S. aureus which was identified by using macroscopical, microscopical, biochemical tests and Vitek 2 compact system. Also antibiotic susceptibility test were performed by Vitek 2 compact on 19 antibiotics.

Results: Only 100 S. aureus isolates were isolated from 865 samples distributed according to their source of isolation in the cancer patient, urinary tract infection is the most our specimen followed by wound infection, respiratory tract infection, blood infection and gastrointestinal infection. Breast cancer is the most common in our study followed by Colon cancer and Multiple myeloma, with  the percentage of females infected with S. aureus more than the males, with  females being 74/865(8.5%) and males being 28/865(3.2%), after 2016 infections by S. aureus was increased in young and middle-aged people being 52/100(52%) in total, from 2016-2020 S. aureus infected patients with breast cancer was 47/100(47%), colon was 27/100(27%) and multiple myeloma was 26/100(26%). Although (Aztreoman, Ertapenem, Ticarcillin-clavulanic acid) can be considered effective for MDR strains for empirical antibiotic therapy in cancer patients. S. aureus isolates had resistance to more than six antibiotics.

Conclusions: The study findings showed a significant distribution of MDR S. aureus which may increase the burden of healthcare-associated infections in cancer patients. Moreover, mechanisms of resistance should also be investigated for better characterization of the multi-drug resistance of S. aureus isolates.
Association of Post–COVID-19 Condition Symptoms and Employment Status
Authors: Perlis Roy H. , Lunz Trujillo Kristin , Safarpour Alauna , Santillana Mauricio , Ognyanova Katherine , Druckman James , Lazer David
Published: February 2023

Importance

Little is known about the functional correlates of post–COVID-19 condition (PCC), also known as long COVID, particularly the relevance of neurocognitive symptoms.

Objective

To characterize prevalence of unemployment among individuals who did, or did not, develop PCC after acute infection.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This survey study used data from 8 waves of a 50-state US nonprobability internet population-based survey of respondents aged 18 to 69 years conducted between February 2021 and July 2022.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcomes were self-reported current employment status and the presence of PCC, defined as report of continued symptoms at least 2 months beyond initial month of symptoms confirmed by a positive COVID-19 test.

Results

The cohort included 15 308 survey respondents with test-confirmed COVID-19 at least 2 months prior, of whom 2236 (14.6%) reported PCC symptoms, including 1027 of 2236 (45.9%) reporting either brain fog or impaired memory. The mean (SD) age was 38.8 (13.5) years; 9679 respondents (63.2%) identified as women and 10 720 (70.0%) were White. Overall, 1418 of 15 308 respondents (9.3%) reported being unemployed, including 276 of 2236 (12.3%) of those with PCC and 1142 of 13 071 (8.7%) of those without PCC; 8229 respondents (53.8%) worked full-time, including 1017 (45.5%) of those with PCC and 7212 (55.2%) without PCC. In survey-weighted regression models excluding retired respondents, the presence of PCC was associated with a lower likelihood of working full-time (odds ratio [OR], 0.71 [95% CI, 0.63-0.80]; adjusted OR, 0.84 [95% CI, 0.74-0.96]) and with a higher likelihood of being unemployed (OR, 1.45 [95% CI, 1.22-1.73]; adjusted OR, 1.23 [95% CI, 1.02-1.48]). The presence of any cognitive symptom was associated with lower likelihood of working full time (OR, 0.70 [95% CI, 0.56-0.88]; adjusted OR, 0.75 [95% CI, 0.59-0.84]).

Conclusions and Relevance

PCC was associated with a greater likelihood of unemployment and lesser likelihood of working full time in adjusted models. The presence of cognitive symptoms was associated with diminished likelihood of working full time. These results underscore the importance of developing strategies to treat and manage PCC symptoms.
Transformative learning theory: Where we are after 45 years
Authors: Hoggan Chad , Finnegan Fergal
Published: February 2023

This article provides an overview of the literature on transformative learning over the previous 45 years, describes its current condition as a relatively mature collection of theories, and calls for greater clarity, new iterations of theory, and productive and substantive steps forward. It then provides an overview of the contributions in this issue of New Directions for Adult and Continuing Education.
Understanding transformative learning through metatheory
Authors: Hoggan Chad , Higgins Katherine
Published: February 2023

This chapter describes transformative learning as a catch‐all term to describe many disparate phenomena related to learning processes involved in human transformation. It argues for the distinction between individual theories used to understand these phenomena and the metatheoretical work of analyzing across theories. This article then reviews recent literature that explicitly engages with transformative learning as a metatheory, categorizing this work as either philosophical or phenomenological streams of meteatheory.
Stories of hope, imagination, and transformative learning: A dialogue
Authors: Butterwick Shauna , Lawrence Randee Lipson
Published: February 2023

This article focuses on imagination and the role it can play in bringing about transformation. Through telling stories of feminist activism and teaching, we consider how imagination can extend our understanding of transformative learning. We examine how creative expression and various art forms have enabled imagination and consider the conditions needed to support such processes. We bring attention to the central role of imagination and hope in movements for social justice.
Robust adaptive control design of nonlinear systems with input delay
Authors: Jain Ashish Kumar , Katiyar Atul
Published: February 2023

In this paper a robust adaptive controller for a class of uncertain nonlinear systems is developed with additive disturbance and unknown time‐varying input delay. The control law is composed of a Desired Compensation Adaptation Law (DCAL) based feedforward term for the adaptation of uncertain plant parameters and two robust feedback terms based on the integral of the past control to compensate the input delay. The sufficient conditions on controller gains and limit on delay bound are derived through stability analysis by choosing suitable Lyapunov‐Krasovskii functionals which gives a globally uniformly ultimately bounded (GUUB) tracking. The performance of the controller is evaluated by performing simulation on a two link robot manipulator system for different values of the input delay.
In Situ Embedding Hydrogen‐Bonded Organic Frameworks Nanocrystals in Electrospinning Nanofibers for Ultrastable Broad‐Spectrum Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Wang Yao , Cao Ran , Wang Chen , Song Xiyu , Wang Ruina , Liu Jiacun , Zhang Mengmeng , Huang Junyi , You Tingting , Zhang Yihua , Yan Dapeng , Han Wendong , Yan Lan , Xiao Jisheng , Li Peng
Published: February 2023

In the event of a public health crisis, highly effective and sustainable antimicrobial materials and equipment will be urgently needed. Here, the preparation is reported by electrospinning of broad‐spectrum antibacterial nanofibers embedded in a photoactive hydrogen‐bonded organic framework (HOF) of rod‐like nanocrystals ≈60 nm in length. The resulting HOF@PVDF‐HFP nanofibers maintain excellent tensile and breathability characteristics while shielding HOF nanocrystals against acid and alkali corrosion. A series of nanofibers embedded with different amounts and types of HOF nanocrystals are prepared to optimize their efficiency of singlet oxygen (1O2) generation. The 0.5 wt.% HOF‐101‐F@PVDF‐HFP nanofibers exhibit the most efficient 1O2 generation that is enhanced by a factor of almost 2 when compared with the HOF‐101‐F microcrystalline powder. The HOF@PVDF‐HFP nanofibers are demonstrated to highly effectively kill pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, and fungi in 30 min under ambient light conditions.
In Vivo Stable Allogenic Cartilage Regeneration in a Goat Model Based on Immunoisolation Strategy Using Electrospun Semipermeable Membranes
Authors: Huo Yingying , Bai Baoshuai , Zheng Rui , Sun Yuyan , Yu Yao , Wang Xin , Chen Hong , Hua Yujie , Zhang Yixin , Zhou Guangdong , Wang Xiaoyun
Published: February 2023

Tissue engineering is a promising strategy for cartilage defect repair. However, autologous cartilage regeneration is limited by additional trauma to the donor site and a long in vitro culture period. Alternatively, allogenic cartilage regeneration has attracted attention because of the unique advantages of an abundant donor source and immediate supply, but it will cause immune rejection responses (IRRs), especially in immunocompetent large animals. Therefore, a universal technique needs to be established to overcome IRRs for allogenic cartilage regeneration in large animals. In the current study, a hybrid synthetic‐natural electrospun thermoplastic polyurethane/gelatin (TPU/GT) semipermeable membrane to explore the feasibility of stable allogenic cartilage regeneration by an immunoisolation strategy is developed. In vitro results demonstrated that the rationally designed electrospun TPU/GT membranes has ideal biocompatibility, semipermeability, and an immunoisolation function. In vivo results further showed that the semipermeable membrane (SPM) efficiently blocked immune cell attack, decreased immune factor production, and cell apoptosis of the regenerated allogenic cartilage. Importantly, TPU/GT‐encapsulated cartilage‐sheet constructs achieved stable allogeneic cartilage regeneration in a goat model. The current study provides a novel strategy for allogenic cartilage regeneration and supplies a new cartilage donor source to repair various cartilage defects.
Extracting Polaron Recombination from Electroluminescence in Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes by Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Kim Jae‐Min , Lee Kyung Hyung , Lee Jun Yeob
Published: February 2023

Direct exploring the electroluminescence (EL) of organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) is a challenge due to the complicated processes of polarons, excitons, and their interactions. This study demonstrated the extraction of the polaron dynamics from transient EL by predicting the recombination coefficient via artificial intelligence, overcoming multivariable kinetics problems. The performance of a machine learning (ML) model trained by various EL decay curves is significantly improved using a novel featurization method and input node optimization, achieving an R2 value of 0.947. The optimized ML model successfully predicts the recombination coefficients of actual OLEDs based on an exciplex‐forming cohost, enabling the quantitative understanding of the overall polaron behavior under various electrical excitation conditions.
A New Group of 2D Non‐van der Waals Materials with Ultra Low Exfoliation Energies
Authors: Barnowsky Tom , Krasheninnikov Arkady V. , Friedrich Rico
Published: February 2023

The exfoliation energy—quantifying the energy required to extract a two‐dimensional (2D) sheet from the surface of a bulk material—is a key parameter determining the synthesizability of 2D compounds. Here, using ab initio calculations, a new group of non‐van der Waals 2D materials derived from non‐layered crystals that exhibit ultra low exfoliation energies is presented. In particular for sulfides, surface relaxations are essential to correctly describe the associated energy gain needed to obtain reliable results. Taking into account long‐range dispersive interactions has only a minor effect on the energetics and ultimately proves that the exfoliation energies are close to the ones of traditional van der Waals bound 2D compounds. The candidates with the lowest energies, 2D SbTlO3 and MnNaCl3, exhibit appealing electronic, potential topological, and magnetic features as evident from the calculated band structures making these systems an attractive platform for fundamental and applied nanoscience.
High‐Performance Transparent Silicon Nanowire Thin Film Transistors Integrated on Glass Substrates via a Room Temperature Solution Passivation
Authors: Song Xiaopan , Wu Lei , Liang Yifei , Liu Zongguang , Wang Junzhuan , Xu Jun , Chen Kunji , Yu Linwei
Published: February 2023

Catalytic synthesized ultrathin silicon nanowires (SiNWs) are ideal 1D channel materials to fabricate high‐performance transparent and low‐cost thin film transistors (TFTs) that are widely needed for flexible electronics and displays. In this work, a scalable integration of orderly array of SiNW array, with a uniform diameter of only 52 ± 4 nm, grown directly upon glass/wafer substrates, via a guided in‐plane solid–liquid–solid (IPSLS) process, and passivated by a new solution oxidizing/etching cycling technique is demonstrated. This has enabled an all‐low‐temperature (<350 °C) fabrication of high‐performance SiNW‐TFTs, achieving Ion/Ioff current ratio and subthreshold swing (SS) of >106 and 120 mV dec−1 respectively, with excellent negative and positive bias stabilities. Importantly, the SiNW‐TFTs fabricated on glasses with ITO/or metal electrodes demonstrate a high transparency of 90% or 73% respectively, making them ideal candidates for building the next generation of high aperture displays, transparent electronics, and augmented reality applications.
All‐Inorganic Perovskite‐Based Monolithic Perovskite/Organic Tandem Solar Cells with 23.21% Efficiency by Dual‐Interface Engineering
Authors: Sun Shuang‐Qiao , Xu Xiuwen , Sun Qi , Yao Qin , Cai Yating , Li Xin‐Yi , Xu Yan‐Lin , He Wei , Zhu Min , Lv Xuan , Lin Francis R. , Jen Alex K.‐Y. , Shi Tingting , Yip Hin‐Lap , Fung Man‐Keung , Xie Yue‐Min
Published: February 2023

Monolithic perovskite/organic tandem solar cells (POTSCs) have significant advantages in next‐generation flexible photovoltaics, owing to their capability to overcome the Shockley–Queisser limit and facile device integration. However, the compromised sub‐cells performance challenges the fabrication of high‐efficiency POTSCs. Especially for all‐inorganic wide‐bandgap perovskite front sub‐cells (AIWPSCs) based n‐i‐p structured POTSCs (AIPOTSCs), for which the power conversion efficiency (PCE) is much lower than organic–inorganic mixed‐halide wide‐bandgap perovskite based POTSCs. Herein, an ionic liquid, methylammonium formate (MAFm), based dual‐interface engineering approach is developed to modify the bottom and top interfaces of wide‐bandgap CsPbI2Br films. In particular, the Fm− group of MAFm can effectively passivate the interface defects, and the top interface modification can facilitate the formation of uniform perovskite films with enlarged grain size, thereby mitigating the defects and perovskite grain boundaries induced carrier recombination. As a result, CsPbI2Br‐based AIWPSCs with a high PCE of 17.0% and open‐circuit voltage (VOC) of 1.347 V are achieved. By integrating these dual‐interface engineered CsPbI2Br‐based front sub‐cells with the narrow‐bandgap PM6:CH1007‐based rear sub‐cells, a record PCE of 23.21% is obtained for AIPOTSCs, illustrating the potential of AIPOTSCs for achieving high‐efficiency tandem solar cells.
Revealing the spacing effect of neighboring side‐chains in modulating molecular aggregation and orientation of M‐series acceptors
Authors: Ma Yunlong , Luan Shaoxin , Cai Dongdong , Zhang Shu‐Quan , Wang Jin‐Yun , Tu Qisheng , Zhu Yuhang , Zheng Qingdong
Published: February 2023

Controlling the aggregation of small‐molecule acceptors (SMAs) is essential to obtain an optimal morphology and to improve the photovoltaic performance of polymer solar cells (PSCs). However, reducing intermolecular aggregation of SMAs is usually accompanied by the disruption of compact molecular packing thereby leading to their decreased electron mobilities. Here, two novel M‐series SMAs (MD1T and MD2T) based on ladder‐type heterononacenes with neighboring side‐chains separated by one or two thiophene rings are designed and synthesized. It is found that shortening the spacing of the neighboring side‐chains of the SMAs can greatly alleviate the intermolecular aggregation and alter the molecular orientation from bimodal edge‐on/face‐on to predominant face‐on while maintaining the compact molecular packing. As a result, a more favorable morphology with smaller domain sizes is formed for the MD1T‐based blend films, which greatly improves the charge generation and charge transport for the corresponding PSCs. The best‐performing MD1T‐based device affords an efficiency of 12.43%, over seven times higher than that of the MD2T‐based device. This work reveals the importance of the spacing between the neighboring side‐chains in modulating the molecular aggregation and active layer morphology, and the obtained structure‐performance relationships shall provide important guidance for designing highly efficient SMAs.
Updated imaging and phylogenetic comparative methods reassess relative temporal lobe size in anthropoids and modern humans
Authors: Pearson Alannah , Bruner Emiliano , Polly P. David
Published: February 2023

Objectives

Two decades ago, Rilling and Seligman, hereafter abbreviated to RAS Study, suggested modern humans had relatively larger temporal lobes for brain size compared to other anthropoids. Despite many subsequent studies drawing conclusions about the evolutionary implications for the emergence of unique cerebral specializations in Homo sapiens, no re‐assessment has occurred using updated methodologies.

Methods

We reassessed the association between right temporal lobe volume (TLV) and right hemisphere volume (HV) in the anthropoid brain. In a sample compiled de novo by us, T1‐weighted in vivo Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans of 11 extant anthropoid species were calculated by‐voxel from the MRI and the raw data from RAS Study directly compared to our sample. Phylogenetic Generalized Least‐Squares (PGLS) regression and trait‐mapping using Blomberg's K (kappa) tested the correlation between HV and TLV accounting for anthropoid phylogeny, while bootstrapped PGLS regressions tested difference in slopes and intercepts between monkey and ape subsamples.

Results

PGLS regressions indicated statistically significant correlations (r2 < 0.99; p ≤ 0.0001) between TLV and HV with moderate influence from phylogeny (K ≤ 0.42). Bootstrapped PGLS regression did not show statistically significant differences in slopes between monkeys and apes but did for intercepts. In our sample, human TLV was not larger than expected for anthropoids.

Discussion

Updated imaging, increased sample size and advanced statistical analyses did not find statistically significant results that modern humans possessed a disproportionately large temporal lobe volume compared to the general anthropoid trend. This has important implications for human and non‐human primate brain evolution.
Multiomics profiling of human plasma and cerebrospinal fluid reveals ATN‐derived networks and highlights causal links in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Shi Liu , Xu Jin , Green Rebecca , Wretlind Asger , Homann Jan , Buckley Noel J. , Tijms Betty M. , Vos Stephanie J. B. , Lill Christina M. , Kate Mara ten , Engelborghs Sebastiaan , Sleegers Kristel , Frisoni Giovanni B. , Wallin Anders , Lleó Alberto , Popp Julius , Martinez‐Lage Pablo , Streffer Johannes , Barkhof Frederik , Zetterberg Henrik , Visser Pieter Jelle , Lovestone Simon , Bertram Lars , Nevado‐Holgado Alejo J. , Proitsi Petroula , Legido‐Quigley Cristina
Published: February 2023

Introduction

This study employed an integrative system and causal inference approach to explore molecular signatures in blood and CSF, the amyloid/tau/neurodegeneration [AT(N)] framework, mild cognitive impairment (MCI) conversion to Alzheimer's disease (AD), and genetic risk for AD.

Methods

Using the European Medical Information Framework (EMIF)‐AD cohort, we measured 696 proteins in cerebrospinal fluid (n = 371), 4001 proteins in plasma (n = 972), 611 metabolites in plasma (n = 696), and genotyped whole‐blood (7,778,465 autosomal single nucleotide epolymorphisms, n = 936). We investigated associations: molecular modules to AT(N), module hubs with AD Polygenic Risk scores and APOE4 genotypes, molecular hubs to MCI conversion and probed for causality with AD using Mendelian randomization (MR).

Results

AT(N) framework associated with protein and lipid hubs. In plasma, Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 7 showed evidence for causal associations with AD. AD was causally associated with Reticulocalbin 2 and sphingomyelins, an association driven by the APOE isoform.

Discussion

This study reveals multi‐omics networks associated with AT(N) and causal AD molecular candidates.
Sex differences in dementia risk and risk factors: Individual‐participant data analysis using 21 cohorts across six continents from the COSMIC consortium
Authors: Gong Jessica , Harris Katie , Lipnicki Darren M. , Castro‐Costa Erico , Lima‐Costa Maria Fernanda , Diniz Breno S. , Xiao Shifu , Lipton Richard B. , Katz Mindy J. , Wang Cuiling , Preux Pierre‐Marie , Guerchet Maëlenn , Gbessemehlan Antoine , Ritchie Karen , Ancelin Marie‐Laure , Skoog Ingmar , Najar Jenna , Sterner Therese Rydberg , Scarmeas Nikolaos , Yannakoulia Mary , Kosmidis Mary H. , Guaita Antonio , Rolandi Elena , Davin Annalisa , Gureje Oye , Trompet Stella , Gussekloo Jacobijn , Riedel‐Heller Steffi , Pabst Alexander , Röhr Susanne , Shahar Suzana , Singh Devinder Kaur Ajit , Rivan Nurul Fatin Malek , Boxtel Martin van , Köhler Sebastian , Ganguli Mary , Chang Chung‐Chou , Jacobsen Erin , Haan Mary , Ding Ding , Zhao Qianhua , Xiao Zhenxu , Narazaki Kenji , Chen Tao , Chen Sanmei , Ng Tze Pin , Gwee Xinyi , Numbers Katya , Mather Karen A. , Scazufca Marcia , Lobo Antonio , De‐la‐Cámara Concepción , Lobo Elena , Sachdev Perminder S. , Brodaty Henry , Hackett Maree L. , Peters Sanne A. E. , Woodward Mark ,   for the Cohort Studies of Memory in an International Consortium (COSMIC)
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Sex differences in dementia risk, and risk factor (RF) associations with dementia, remain uncertain across diverse ethno‐regional groups.

Methods

A total of 29,850 participants (58% women) from 21 cohorts across six continents were included in an individual participant data meta‐analysis. Sex‐specific hazard ratios (HRs), and women‐to‐men ratio of hazard ratios (RHRs) for associations between RFs and all‐cause dementia were derived from mixed‐effect Cox models.

Results

Incident dementia occurred in 2089 (66% women) participants over 4.6 years (median). Women had higher dementia risk (HR, 1.12 [1.02, 1.23]) than men, particularly in low‐ and lower‐middle‐income economies. Associations between longer education and former alcohol use with dementia risk (RHR, 1.01 [1.00, 1.03] per year, and 0.55 [0.38, 0.79], respectively) were stronger for men than women; otherwise, there were no discernible sex differences in other RFs.

Discussion

Dementia risk was higher in women than men, with possible variations by country‐level income settings, but most RFs appear to work similarly in women and men.
Endogenous Enzyme‐Operated Spherical Nucleic Acids for Cell‐Selective Protein Capture and Localization Regulation
Authors: Liu Qing , Huang Yuanyu , Li Lele , Li Zhengping , Li Mengyuan
Published: February 2023

Precise regulation of protein activity and localization in cancer cells is crucial to dissect the function of the protein‐involved cellular network in tumorigenesis, but there is a lack of suitable methodology. Here we report the design of enzyme‐operated spherical nucleic acids (E‐SNAs) for manipulation of the nucleocytoplasmic translocation of proteins with cancer‐cell selectivity. The E‐SNAs are constructed by programmable engineering of aptamer‐based modules bearing enzyme‐responsive units in predesigned sites and further combination with SNA nanotechnology. We demonstrate that E‐SNAs are able to regulate cytoplasmic‐to‐nuclear shuttling of RelA protein efficiently and specifically in tumor cells, while they remain inactive in normal cells due to insufficient enzyme expression. We further confirmed the generality of this strategy by investigating the enzyme‐modulated inhibition/activation of thrombin activity by varying the aptamer‐based design.
Cd/Pt Precursor Solution for Solar H2 Production and in situ Photochemical Synthesis of Pt Single‐atom Decorated CdS Nanoparticles
Authors: Sharma Pankaj , Sharma Monika , Dearg Malcolm , Wilding Martin , Slater Thomas J. A. , Catlow C. Richard A.
Published: February 2023

Despite extensive efforts to develop high‐performance H2 evolution catalysts, this remains a major challenge. Here, we demonstrate the use of Cd/Pt precursor solutions for significant photocatalytic H2 production (154.7 mmol g−1 h−1), removing the need for a pre‐synthesized photocatalyst. In addition, we also report simultaneous in situ synthesis of Pt single‐atoms anchored CdS nanoparticles (PtSA‐CdSIS) during photoirradiation. The highly dispersed in situ incorporation of extensive Pt single atoms on CdSIS enables the enhancement of active sites and suppresses charge recombination, which results in exceptionally high solar‐to‐hydrogen conversion efficiency of ≈1 % and an apparent quantum yield of over 91 % (365 nm) for H2 production. Our work not only provides a promising strategy for maximising H2 production efficiency but also provides a green process for H2 production and the synthesis of highly photoactive PtSA‐CdSIS nanoparticles.
Manipulation of the Buried Interface for Robust Formamidinium‐based Sn−Pb Perovskite Solar Cells with NiOxHole‐Transport Layers
Authors: Zhou Yuan , Wang Zhen , Jin Junjun , Zhang Xiang , Zou Junjie , Yao Fang , Zhu Zhenkun , Cui Xiaxia , Zhang Dan , Yu Yanhua , Chen Cong , Zhao Dewei , Cao Qiang , Lin Qianqian , Tai Qidong
Published: February 2023

Low band gap tin‐lead perovskite solar cells (Sn−Pb PSCs) are expected to achieve higher efficiencies than Pb‐PSCs and regarded as key components of tandem PSCs. However, the realization of high efficiency is challenged by the instability of Sn2+and the imperfections at the charge transfer interfaces. Here, we demonstrate an efficient ideal band gap formamidinium (FA)‐based Sn−Pb (FAPb0.5Sn0.5I3) PSC, by manipulating the buried NiOx/perovskite interface with 4‐hydroxyphenethyl ammonium halide (OH‐PEAX, X=Cl−, Br−, or I−) interlayer, which exhibits fascinating functions of reducing the surface defects of the NiOxhole transport layer (HTL), enhancing the perovskite film quality, and improving both the energy level matching and physical contact at the interface. The effects of different halide anions have been elaborated and a 20.53 % efficiency is obtained with OH‐PEABr, which is the highest one for FA‐based Sn−Pb PSCs using NiOxHTLs. Moreover, the device stability is also boosted.
Transesterification of waste cooking oil with a commercial liquid biocatalyst: Key information revised and new insights
Authors: Mateos Paula S. , Casella Mónica L. , Briand Laura E. , Matkovic Silvana R.
Published: February 2023

Abstract

The transesterification of the waste cooking oil (WCO) with various linear alcohols (C1 to C4) using the commercial biocatalyst Eversa® Transform in its liquid form is addressed in this investigation. The influence of the amount of the liquid formulation of lipase Eversa® Transform, nature of alcohol, oil to alcohol molar ratio and water addition in the transesterification of fresh sunflower oil and WCO was investigated. In addition, an innovative combination of that fungal based biocatalyst with a native vegetable lipase, known as Araujia sericifera (ASL), in a liquid formulation fashion was investigated. The assays carried out at 35°C for 24 h, an oil: alcohol molar ratio of 1:6.8, 2% v/w water added and 1% v/w of biocatalyst allowed to obtain up to 90% conversion and yield towards fatty acid methyl, ethyl and propyl esters. In the particular case of 1‐butanol (C4) a 79% conversion and 72% yield to the esters was obtained. The biocatalyst maintains about 60% of its activity in the conversion of glycerides and yield towards the esters. The combination of process using Eversa® Transform and then the ASL lipase in the transesterification of the WCO probed efficient in the conversion of triglycerides using 1‐butanol. A shift from 73 wt % of fatty acid butyl esters (FABE) towards 90 wt % was achieved.
Improved early and late continence following robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy with concurrent bladder neck fascial sling (RoboSling)
Authors: Leslie Scott , Jackson Stuart , Broe Mark , van Diepen Danielle C. , Stanislaus Christina , Steffens Daniel , McClintock George , Kim Sia , Jeffery Nicola , Fallot Jeremy , Ahmadi Nariman , Vasilaras Arthur , Sved Paul , Chan Lewis , Thanigasalam Ruban
Published: February 2023

Objective

To describe a novel RoboSling technique performed at the time of robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) and its utility for enhancing urinary function recovery postoperatively.

Materials and Methods

The surgical technique involves harvesting a vascularised, fascial flap from the peritoneum on the posterior aspect of the bladder. Following completion of prostatectomy, the autologous flap is tunnelled underneath the bladder and incorporated into the rectourethralis and vertical longitudinal detrusor fibres at the posterior bladder neck with a modified Rocco suture. After urethra‐vesical anastomosis is completed, the corners of the flap are hitched up to Cooper's ligament bilaterally with V‐Loc sutures, tensioned and secured creating a bladder neck sling. A prospective, longitudinal cohort study was performed of 193 consecutive patients undergoing RARP between December 2016 and September 2019. The first 163 patients underwent standard RARP, and the last 30 patients had the RoboSling technique performed concurrently. Continence outcomes were the primary outcomes assessed using pad number and Expanded Prostate Cancer Composite (EPIC)‐urinary domain questionnaire. Operative time (OT), estimated blood loss (EBL), complications and oncological outcomes were secondary outcomes.

Results

The two groups were comparable for demographics and clinicopathological variables. At 3 months, zero pad usage (p = 0.005) and continence rates, defined as EPIC score ≥ 85 (p = 0.007), were both higher in the RoboSling group. EBL, complication rate and positive surgical margin rate did not differ between the two groups. Superior zero pad usage was observed at 1 year in the RoboSling group (p = 0.029). The RoboSling technique added on average 16 min to OT.

Conclusions

The RoboSling procedure at the time of RARP was associated with earlier return to continence without negatively impacting other postoperative outcomes. This improvement in continence outcomes was maintained long term.
Stratifying the risk of ovarian cancer incidence by histologic subtypes in the Korean Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Study (Ko‐EVE)
Authors: Sung Soseul , Hong Youjin , Kim Byoung‐Gie , Choi Ji‐Yeob , Kim Jae Weon , Park Sang‐Yoon , Kim Jae‐Hoon , Kim Yong‐man , Lee Jong‐Min , Kim Tae Jin , Park Sue K.
Published: February 2023

Introduction

This study aimed to verify the association between ovarian cancer (OC) and reproductive‐ and lifestyle‐related risk factors stratified by the subtype of OC.

Methods

In this matched case–control study derived from the Korean epithelial ovarian cancer study (Ko‐EVE), we calculated the risk of OC subtypes using odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) in a logistic regression model.

Results

As a result of matching, 531 cases and 2,124 controls were selected. Smoking had positive association with high‐grade serous (HGS) OC (OR = 2.69, 95% CI = 1.15–6.30), whereas alcohol consumption had positive association with mucinous type (MUC) (OR = 3.63, 95% CI = 1.39–9.49). Obesity (≥30 kg/m2) was associated with clear cell type (CLC) (OR = 4.57, 95% CI = 1.06–19.77). Spontaneous abortion was negatively associated with CLC (OR = 0.34, 95% CI = 0.13–0.90), in contrast to HGS (OR = 1.43, 95% CI = 0.96–2.15). Tubal ligation, hysterectomy, and oophorectomy were associated with decreased risk of HGS (OR = 0.14, 95% CI = 0.05–0.39; OR = 0.23, 95% CI = 0.07–0.73; OR = 0.28, 95% CI = 0.08–0.97, respectively). Early menarche was strongly associated with increased risk of CLC, but not MUC (OR = 6.11, 95% CI = 1.53–24.42; OR = 3.23, 95% CI = 0.98–10.86). Further, childbirth (≥2 times) was negatively associated with endometrioid type OC and CLC (OR = 0.11, 95% CI = 0.04–0.35; OR = 0.12, 95% CI = 0.02–0.37, respectively). Oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy were negatively associated with OC (OR = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.40–0.93; OR = 0.51, 95% CI = 0.32–0.80, respectively), and similar negative associations were also observed in HGS (OR = 0.69; OR = 0.60, respectively). Associations between family history of breast cancer and OC, regular exercise (≥5/week), and artificial abortion and OC were similar across all subtypes (OR = 3.92; OR = 0.41; OR = 0.72, respectively).

Conclusion

A heterogeneous association between some risk factors and the incidence of each subtype of epithelial OC was observed, suggesting that the carcinogenic mechanisms of each subtype may be partly different.
Design of Multicationic Copper‐Bearing Layered Double Hydroxides for Catalytic Application in Biorefinery
Authors: Awan Iqra Zubair , Ho Phuoc Hoang , Beltrami Giada , Gimello Olinda , Cacciaguerra Thomas , Gaudin Pierrick , Tanchoux Nathalie , Albonetti Stefania , Martucci Annalisa , Cavani Fabrizio , Tichit Didier , Di Renzo Francesco
Published: February 2023

Ethanol has been used as a renewable hydrogen‐donor in the conversion of a lignin model molecule in subcritical conditions. Noble metal‐free porous mixed oxides, obtained by activation of Cu−Ni−Al and Cu−Ni−Fe layered double hydroxide (LDH) precursors, have been used as heterogeneous catalysts for Meerwein‐Ponndorf‐Verley (MPV) hydrogen transfer and further hydrogenation by ethanol dehydrogenation products. Both the Cu/(Cu+Ni) ratio and the nature of the trivalent cation (Al or Fe) affect the activity of the catalysts, as well as the selectivity towards the different steps of the hydrogenation reactions and the cleavage of lignin‐like phenylether bonds. Accounting for the peculiar behaviour of Cu2+ and M(III) cations in the synthesis of LDHs, the coprecipitation of the precursors has been monitored by titration experiments. Structural and textural properties of the catalysts are closely related to the composition of the LDH precursors.
Heterophenoquinones: Tuning Optoelectronics and Electrochromicity
Authors: Amberg Willi M. , Intorp Sebastian N. , Dmitrieva Evgenia , Popov Alexey A. , Rominger Frank , Freudenberg Jan , Bunz Uwe H. F.
Published: February 2023

We report the synthesis and optoelectronic properties of 16 thiophene‐based heterophenoquinones. These compounds were accessed in a convergent and modular approach, allowing for their efficient synthesis. Tuning of the optical band gap was achieved through π‐extension by annulation of a benzene or tropone moiety to the thiophene, oxidation, change of the heteroatom or by attachment of a donor substituent to the thiophene core. The resulting compounds display intense colors covering the entire visible spectrum. We identified structure‐property relationships and their impact on the HOMO and LUMO levels. Additionally, these materials change color upon reduction and according to in situ ultraviolet‐visible‐near infrared (UV‐vis‐NIR) and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectro‐electrochemistry, they are promising electrochromes with cathodic color changes. Seven different electrochromic devices were constructed which all displayed a change in color upon reduction, demonstrating the potential of these new dyes in for example tintable glass.
New Approach Methodologies for the Endocrine Activity Toolbox: Environmental Assessment for Fish and Amphibians
Authors: Mitchell Constance A. , Burden Natalie , Bonnell Mark , Hecker Markus , Hutchinson Thomas H. , Jagla Magdalena , LaLone Carlie A. , Lagadic Laurent , Lynn Scott G. , Shore Bryon , Song You , Vliet Sara M. , Wheeler James R. , Embry Michelle R.
Published: February 2023

Multiple in vivo test guidelines focusing on the estrogen, androgen, thyroid, and steroidogenesis pathways have been developed and validated for mammals, amphibians, or fish. However, these tests are resource-intensive and often use a large number of laboratory animals. Developing alternatives for in vivo tests is consistent with the replacement, reduction, and refinement principles for animal welfare considerations, which are supported by increasing mandates to move toward an “animal-free” testing paradigm worldwide. New approach methodologies (NAMs) hold great promise to identify molecular, cellular, and tissue changes that can be used to predict effects reliably and more efficiently at the individual level (and potentially on populations) while reducing the number of animals used in (eco)toxicological testing for endocrine disruption. In a collaborative effort, experts from government, academia, and industry met in 2020 to discuss the current challenges of testing for endocrine activity assessment for fish and amphibians. Continuing this cross-sector initiative, our review focuses on the current state of the science regarding the use of NAMs to identify chemical-induced endocrine effects. The present study highlights the challenges of using NAMs for safety assessment and what work is needed to reduce their uncertainties and increase their acceptance in regulatory processes. We have reviewed the current NAMs available for endocrine activity assessment including in silico, in vitro, and eleutheroembryo models. New approach methodologies can be integrated as part of a weight-of-evidence approach for hazard or risk assessment using the adverse outcome pathway framework. The development and utilization of NAMs not only allows for replacement, reduction, and refinement of animal testing but can also provide robust and fit-for-purpose methods to identify chemicals acting via endocrine mechanisms. Environ Toxicol Chem 2023;42:757–777. © 2023 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Changes in urban green spaces in coastal cities and human well‐being: The case of Cape Coast Metropolis, Ghana
Authors: Duku Eric , Mensah Collins Adjei , Amadu Iddrisu , Adzigbli Wonder Kofi
Published: February 2023

Green spaces are fast depleting in many urban areas across the world. This contributes to carbon dioxide emissions and affects the local climate and well‐being of city residents. Yet, there is limited empirical research on the spatio‐temporal patterns of change in urban green spaces and linkages to human well‐being, especially in coastal cities where urban green spaces additionally act as critical flood controls. This paper assesses the changing pattern of green space cover in Cape Coast Metropolis and the factors associated with the perceived well‐being of residents. Using a mixed‐methods design, we obtained open‐source geospatial data and gathered primary data through field observations, and in‐depth and semi‐structured interviews. These data were analysed using geospatial, statistical, and textual techniques. The results show that, from 1991 to 2018, the metropolis lost 26.57 km2 (21.66%) of its green space cover. The major land use change observed is the conversion of green spaces and wetlands into built‐up areas. The well‐being of residents related to green space use in the metropolis is associated with individuals' age and gender; the presence of good quality green space, its accessibility, and perceived importance; frequency of visits; and the time spent in the green space. The findings suggest the need for the integration of nature into urban development planning and policy, and enforcement of development controls to protect green spaces and enhance the well‐being of residents.
Soft sedimentary rocks and their boreability characteristics in mechanised tunnelling projects
Authors: Hassanpour Jafar , Goodarzi Saeed , Yagiz Saffet , Rostami Jamal , Davari Sarem Milad
Published: February 2023

Soft sedimentary rocks are frequently found in many mountainous regions of the world like Zagros Mountains located in the south and west of Iran, where most of Iran's water conveyance projects have been constructed or are under construction. These rocks usually contain considerable amounts of different types of clay minerals. The clay mineral‐rich rocks cause many problems in the deep and long mechanised tunnelling projects. In particular, the boreability of these rocks is very different from other rocks, and due to their plastic behaviour and the lack of complete formation of chips during the cutting process by disc cutters, the prediction of cutterhead penetration in these rocks, with existing models, is often inaccurate. In this paper, a new model for estimating the disc cutter penetration in these rocks is introduced, which is based on data obtained from the main tunnelling projects completed in sedimentary rocks of Zagros Mountains. Then, the validity of the developed model is checked using actual data obtained from a tunnel recently constructed in the area. The new model can offer a more accurate estimate of machine performance in similar rocks.
Environmental sustainability in healthcare: Time to make outpatient care in orthopaedics and rheumatology greener
Authors: Tsagkaris Christos , Nikolakea Melina , Laskaratou Emmanouela Dionysia , Samaras Christos , Huang Helen , Laubscher Lily , Bobirca Anca
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Chronic musculoskeletal conditions affect billions of individuals and constitute the greatest contributor to disability worldwide. Climate change has a negative impact on these conditions, causing a rising number of patients seeking medical attention in outpatient orthopaedic and rheumatology clinics. Due to the COVID‐19 pandemic, the delivery of care by these facilities tends to become more energy‐intensive due to the increased usage of protective equipment and testing for the purpose of maintaining hygienic conditions. Therefore, practitioners and health bodies in the field need to take action to make their practice more environmentally sustainable and protect both the environment and their patients.

Methods

The authors searched peer reviewed and grey literature for relevant sources.

Results

The present review of the literature provides an overview of the environmental pollution associated with outpatient musculoskeletal care and discusses evidence‐based recommendations from previous studies.

Conclusion

Telemedicine, rationalised use of consumables and equipment, physician‐led climate advocacy and patient education have a major potential to turn the tide.
Polarization effects on intermolecular vibrational energy transfer analyzed by 2DIR spectroscopy
Authors: Villaeys Albert A. , Liang Kuo Kan
Published: February 2023

In the present work, we analyze the influence of the polarization effects taking place during the course of a 2DIR spectroscopy experiment performed on a molecular system undergoing an intermolecular vibrational energy transfer process. When both donor and acceptor molecules participating in the vibrational energy transfer are embedded in a host solvent, they face rotational diffusion that strongly distorts the resulting 2DIR spectra. It could be expected that the difference between rotational diffusion constants will be of particular interest. For this purpose, the polarization effects are discussed according to the different orderings of the laser‐molecule interactions. Next, we study the distortions of the spectra as a function of the rotational diffusion constants of the individual molecules. The knowledge of these polarization effects is relevant to the interpretation of the spectra. Finally, the conclusions reached in this work for a vibrational energy transfer are valid for any other type of third‐order optical process performed on the same molecular system.
Investigating the curvilinear relationship between temporal leadership and team creativity: The moderation of knowledge complexity and the mediation of team creative process engagement
Authors: Duan Chenggang , Zhang Melody Jun , Liu Xinmei , Ling Chu‐Ding , Xie Xiao‐Yun
Published: February 2023

Modern organizations increasingly rely on teams to provide creative solutions in a timely manner. Temporal leadership has thus gained substantial interest, based on the assumption that it is conducive to team effectiveness. However, we advance a different view of temporal leadership's influence on team creativity. Building on temporal leadership literature and the paradox model of creativity, we propose that temporal leadership has a curvilinear (i.e., inverted U‐shaped) relationship with team creativity. Moreover, team knowledge complexity moderates this relationship, while team creative process engagement conditionally mediates it. We conducted two field studies to test our hypotheses. In Study 1, our analyses of multisource data from 68 research and development teams found that temporal leadership has an inverted U‐shaped relationship with team creativity, especially for teams with high knowledge complexity. In Study 2, analyses of multiwave, multisource data from 100 work teams further revealed that team creative process engagement conditionally mediates the curvilinear relationship. Specifically, temporal leadership has a stronger indirect curvilinear relationship with team creativity through team creative process engagement in teams with high (vs. low) levels of knowledge complexity. We discuss the theoretical and practical implications of these findings.