bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Old Age and Samuel Beckett’s Late Works
Authors: Gilleard Chris
Published: April 2022

Old age featured in Samuel Beckett’s plays and novels throughout his literary career. This paper explores the question of how—or indeed if—Beckett’s own experience of aging and old age affected the representation of age in his late works. Focusing upon his last two trilogies, the plays Not I, Footfalls, and Rockaby and the novellas Company, Ill Seen Ill Said, and Worstward Ho, I argue that Beckett’s late-life literary preoccupations were little affected by the corporeality of his own aging. Even in the last year of his life, he still sought to put down through dramatic images and words the ontological issues that had always concerned him. Hopes that his own old age might lead him closer to the edge—closer to what has been termed “the event horizon of the fourth age,” where subjectivity implodes—were not fulfilled, although arguably he did feel, at times, that he was getting closer to it, stylistically perhaps, if not in substance. To what extent Beckett’s later works serve as examples of a “late style” and to what extent they represent the continuing elaboration of a cultural imaginary of “old age” that he first deployed in his original trilogy, Molloy,Malone Dies, and The Unnameable, are difficult to ascertain. What is clear is that Beckett’s literary old age remained a symbolic imaginary, realized differ- ently than in his earlier work but scarcely more connected with his own later life.
Simone de Beauvoir’s The Coming of Age
Authors: Katz Stephen
Published: April 2022

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Time, Age, Change
Authors: Pickard Susan
Published: April 2022

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Review of 'Fade to Gray: Aging in American Cinema' by Timothy Shary and Nancy McVittie
Authors: Chivers Sally
Published: April 2022

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Review of 'Ageing, Media, and Culture' edited by C. Lee Harrington, Denise D. Bielby, and Anthony R. Bardo
Authors: Dolan Josie
Published: April 2022

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Review of 'The Late Poetry of the Lake Poets: Romanticism Revised' by Tim Fulford
Authors: Shears Jonathon
Published: April 2022

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Review of 'Forgotten' by Marlene Goldman and 'The Poetics and Politics of Alzheimer’s Disease Life Writing' by Martina Zimmermann
Authors: Morrison Alastair
Published: April 2022

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Review of 'Old in Art School: A Memoir of Starting Over' by Nell Irvin Painter
Authors: Edelstein Sari
Published: April 2022

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Review of 'Late Style and Its Discontents: Essays in Art, Literature and Music' edited by Gordon McMullan and Sam Smiles
Authors: Gilleard Chris
Published: April 2022

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Review of 'Age in America: The Colonial Era to the Present' edited by Corinne T. Field and Nicholas L. Syrett
Authors: Rothera Evan C.
Published: April 2022

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Review of 'Aging and Human Nature' by Mark Schweda, Michael Coors, and Claudia Bozzaro
Authors: Kainradl Anna-Christina
Published: April 2022

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Ulovlig påvirkningsvirksomhet i samarbeid med fremmed etterretningstjeneste
Authors: Hennig Martin
Published: April 2022

AbstractIn 2019, the Danish Parliament amended its Criminal Code, and introduced a ban on the participation in »unlawful influence activities conducted in cooperation with foreign intelligence services«. The ban is far-reaching, and is intended to criminalize participation in influence activities that can affect decision-making or the general public opinion in Denmark. According to Danish authorities, Denmark is facing a sustained threat to national security from hostile states, and the wide-reaching ban on »unlawful influence activities« is deemed necessary to counter such offences aimed at the Danish authorities and the general public. In 2021, Norwegian legislators have proposed a similar ban, which is, to a large extent, based on the Danish criminal provision. This article argues that the ban on »unlawful influence activities « contains vague and imprecise terms, which are contrary to the qualitative requirements of Article 7 of the European Convention on Human Rights, notably those of accessibility and foreseeability. Given the vague wording of the Danish and the proposed Norwegian provisions, it will be very challenging for citizens to regulate their conduct in accordance with the law. The author contends that cooperation with foreign intelligence services should be punishable by law, but that the vague wording of the Danish and the proposed Norwegian ban may limit public debate and cross-border interactions in the area of media and communications. Furthermore, it is argued that national security agencies should aid citizens in identifying what constitutes »unlawful influence activities«, and provide further criteria which can enable citizens to recognize »foreign intelligence services« with whom cooperation is prohibited.
Distance irregularity strength of graphs with pendant vertices
Authors: Susanto Faisal , Wijaya Kristiana , Slamin  , Semani�ov�-Fe�ov��kov� Andrea
Published: April 2022

A vertex \(k\)-labeling \(\phi:V(G)\rightarrow\{1,2,\dots,k\}\) on a simple graph \(G\) is said to be a distance irregular vertex \(k\)-labeling of \(G\) if the weights of all vertices of \(G\) are pairwise distinct, where the weight of a vertex is the sum of labels of all vertices adjacent to that vertex in \(G\). The least integer \(k\) for which \(G\) has a distance irregular vertex \(k\)-labeling is called the distance irregularity strength of \(G\) and denoted by \(\mathrm{dis}(G)\). In this paper, we introduce a new lower bound of distance irregularity strength of graphs and provide its sharpness for some graphs with pendant vertices. Moreover, some properties on distance irregularity strength for trees are also discussed in this paper.
Phylogeography of Amygdalus mongolica in relation to Quaternary climatic aridification and oscillations in northwestern China
Authors: Zhang Lin , Sun Fangfang , Ma Songmei , Wang Chuncheng , Wei Bo , Zhang Yunling
Published: April 2022

Quaternary period geological events and climatic oscillations significantly affect the geographic structure and genetic diversity of species distribution in arid northwestern China. Amygdalus mongolica is a relict and endangered shrub that occurs primarily in arid areas of northwestern China. Based on variation patterns present at three cpDNA regions (psbK-psbI, trnL-trnF and trnV) and in one nDNA sequence (ITS1-ITS4) in 174 individuals representing 15 populations, the spatial genetic structure and demographic history of A. mongolica was examined across its entire geographic range. The 17 different haplotypes and 10 ribotypes showed two lineages, distributed across the Western (Mazong Mountains, Hexi Corridor, and Alxa Left Banner) and Eastern regions (Urad Houqi, Yinshan Mountains, Urad Zhongqi, and Daqing Mountains) according to the median-joining network and the BI (Bayesian inference) and ML (Maximum likelihood) trees. AMOVA analysis demonstrated that over 65% of the observed genetic variation was related to this lineage split. The expansions of the Ulanbuhe and Tengger deserts and the eastward extension of the Yinshan Mountains since the Quaternary period likely interrupted gene flow and triggered the observed divergence in the two allopatric regions; arid landscape fragmentation accompanied by local environmental heterogeneity further increased local adaptive differentiation between the Western and Eastern groups. Based on the evidence from phylogeographical patterns and the distribution of genetic variation, A. mongolica distributed in the eastern and western regions are speculated to have experienced eastward migration along the southern slopes of the Lang Mountains and westward migration along the margins of the Ulanbuhe and Tengger deserts to the Hexi Corridor, respectively. For setting a conservation management plan, it is recommended that the south slopes of the Lang Mountains and northern Helan Mountains be identified as the two primary conservation areas, as they have high genetic variation and habitats that are more suitable.
Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy. Incidence and Mechanisms Involved in the Reduction of Functional Mitral Regurgitation
Authors: Galizio Néstor O. , Amrein María E. , González José L. , Carnero Guillermo A. , Mysuta Mauricio A. , Guevara Ernesto , Favaloro Liliana , Favaloro Roberto
Published: April 2022

Background: Functional mitral regurgitation (FMR) is common in heart failure, and moderate/severe (M/S) FMR is associated with worse prognosis. Objective: The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence of FMR and the mechanisms involved in its reduction in responders to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) at 6 months compared with 12 and 24 months. Methods: Between 2009 and 2018, 338 patients received CRT. Patients who showed NYHA functional class (FC) reduction ≥1 or left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) absolute increase ≥5% were considered responders. Functional mitral regurgitation was graded using a 4-point scale into none-, mild-, M- and S-FMR, and was related to echocardiographic measurements. Baseline patient characteristics were: age 64±10 years, men 71%, NYHA FC II-III 92%, left bundle branch block (LBBB) 67%, QRS ≥150 ms 75%, LV diastolic diameter (LVDD) 68±9 mm, LV systolic diameter (LVSD) 52±12 mm, and LV EF 24±7%. Results: The prevalence of FMR was 92.6%. At 6 months, 86% were responders, 23% improved from M/S-FMR to mild/none-FMR and there was strong reverse remodeling: LVDD 68±10 vs. 63±11 mm, (p=0.0001), LVSD 55±12 vs. 50±13 mm, (p=0.0006) and LVEF 25±11 vs. 33±10%, (p=0.00001). Comparing 6 with 12 months, 89.4% were responders and 8% improved M/S-FMR to mild/none-FMR. Comparing 6 with 24 months, 88% were responders and 14.6% improved M/S-FMR to mild/none-FMR. Between 6 and 12 and 6 and 24 months, there was no significant reverse remodeling. Conclusions: The prevalence of FMR was high. The highest reverse remodeling and FMR reduction was observed at 6 months, the former being the main mechanism of FMR reduction. This improvement persisted at 12 and 24 months.
Effect of Planting Time on Growth and Yield of Garlic (Allium sativum L.) Genotypes
Authors: Sultana Afroza , Debsharma Sanjoy Kumer , Mondal Satyen , Maniruzzaman Sheikh , Islam M. M. Al Fakhrul , Rahim Md. Abdur , Haque Md. Azizul
Published: April 2022

A field experiment was conducted at the field Laboratory, Horticulture farm, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh during the dry season (October to April) to evaluate the effect of planting time on the growth and yield of two garlic varieties. The experiment was laid-out with two factors, dates of planting (21 October, 6 November, 21 November and 06 December) and variety (BAU garlic-1 and BAU garlic-2) in Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. Planting time had significant influence on growth and yield attributes as well as bulb yield of garlic. Plant height, leaf length, number of leaves, leaf and root dry weight, bulb diameter, number of cloves per bulb and bulb yield decreased with delay planting. The highest plant height (52.38 cm), leaf length (37.66 cm), number of leaves per plant (7.15), leaf dry weight (1.75 g), bulb diameter (3.89 cm), number of cloves per bulb (22.31), bulb yield per plant (16.42 g) and per hectare (8.13 t ha-1) obtained from 21 October planting. BAU garlic-2 was relatively better than BAU garlic-1 in terms of yield and yield attributes. The interaction effect of planting time and variety showed the highest bulb yield of both varieties from 21 October planting. Early planting of both varieties found better to get maximum yield of garlic.
The Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Dental Practice and the Acceptance and Attitude of Indian Dental Professionals towards COVID-19 Vaccine – A Cross- Sectional Observational Survey
Authors: Vashisht Ruchi , Wadhawa Bhavita , Goyal Ashima , Shrivastava Richa , Jolly Satnam Singh , Brar Prabhleen K.
Published: April 2022

Aim: This study aims to evaluate the acceptance, accessibility, experiences, side effects and attitude of dental professionals after administration of the vaccine and their perspective regarding the effect of COVID-19 on dental practice and patient education.

Materials and Methods: This survey is based on the questionnaire that was conducted among Indian dentists. The survey included questions that evaluated dentist’s opinion on COVID-19 vaccination, their acceptance, knowledge, attitude and side effects experienced if any post vaccination and also their perspective regarding the effect of COVID-19 on dental practice and patient education.

Results: Overall 155 dentists contributed to this study (51% general dentists & 49% specialists). 85% of the dentists opted for COVID-19 vaccination, however 56% of them were concerned about the side effects of the vaccine. Fever (21%) and pain at the injection site (20%) were the most prevalent side effects after the vaccine .As far as modifications done in daily practice, only 8% cases were being done considering them as most urgent.

Conclusion: Dental professionals are the reliable source of health information, their acceptance or rejection to COVID-19 vaccine can influence the general population’s uptake of COVID-19 Vaccine.
OPTIMASI BIAYA PONDASI BORED PILE DENGAN METODE METAHEURISTIK
Authors: Chandra Leonard , Prayogo Doddy , Susanto Y Teddy
Published: April 2022

Foundation is part of the building structure to transfer the load from upper structure to soil layer. A deep foundation is used when the hard soil layer is located far below the soil surface. To design an optimal and economical deep foundation that still meet the safety requirements, Ultimate Limit State (ULS), Serviceability Limit State (SLS), and economic are required. Previous studies indicate that metaheuristic method can be used as an alternative to solve existing optimization problems. Therefore, this study uses metaheuristic methods which are Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) and Symbiotic Organism Search (SOS) to solve the optimization of deep foundation. In this study, optimization was carried out for case studies of four and nine story buildings which used bored pile foundation. The result showed that metaheuristic method was able to find the optimal deep foundation dimensions.
Optimasi Resource Constrained Project Scheduling Problem
Authors: Candi Yulius , Andi Andi , Prayogo Doddy
Published: April 2022

Proyek konstruksi membutuhkan resource untuk membangunnya. Ketika resource yang dibutuhkan tidak cukup, proyek dapat terlambat dari jadwal yang sudah direncanakan. Permasalahan ini disebut juga Resource Constrained Project Scheduling Problem (RCPSP) dan penelitian ini menggunakan algoritma metaheuristik untuk menyelesaikannya. Symbiotic Organism Search (SOS) merupakan algoritma metaheuristik yang dibuat oleh Cheng dan Prayogo dapat menyelesaikan permasalahan optimasi yang rumit dalam berbagai bidang. Algoritma ini bersifat kontinu dan terdiri dari tiga fase utama, yaitu mutualisme, komensalisme, dan parasitisme. Percobaan SOS dilakukan menggunakan jadwal proyek yang sedang berjalan di Surabaya dengan membatasi resource sebanyak 75%, 50%, dan kebutuhan paling minimal dari total resource awal. Hasil percobaan algoritma SOS terbukti dapat menyelesaikan RCPSP dengan membandingkan dengan solver dari program lainnya, namun hasil pembatasan minimal lebih terlambat. Algoritma SOS lebih unggul secara waktu dan langsung mendapat hasil optimal, sedangkan solver program pembanding membutuhkan proses yang rumit dan pengulangan berulang kali sampai mendapat hasil yang optimal.
OPTIMASI PEMOTONGAN BESI TULANGAN PADA PROYEK KOMPLEKS PERGUDANG MENGGUNAKAN INTEGER LINEAR PROGRAMMING
Authors: Djuniaidi Samuel Eric , Prayogo Doddy
Published: April 2022

Dalam pembangunan proyek konstruksi, penggunaan material yang tidak optimal dapat menimbulkan waste material konstruksi yang berdampak terhadap tingginya biaya proyek dan menjadi limbah bagi lingkungan. Salah satu material konstruksi yang sangat banyak digunakan dan menimbulkan waste ialah besi beton bertulang, terutama apabila variasi potongan tulangan cukup banyak. Waste tersebut diakibatkan pemotongan tulangan yang tidak optimal. Integer linear programming merupakan metode yang terbukti efektif dalam menyelesaikan banyak permasalahan optimasi yang bersifat linear. Namun, masih sedikit yang mengaplikasikan integer linear programming pada problem optimasi pemotongan besi tulangan dengan banyak variasi potongan tulangan. Oleh karena itu, penelitian ini akan mengevaluasi sejauh mana tingkat keberhasilan optimasi metode integer linear programming dalam upaya untuk memperoleh waste besi beton paling minimum dengan bantuan program MATLAB. Data yang digunakan ialah besi beton berdiameter 13mm pada pembangunan sebuah proyek gudang. Setelah dilakukan proses optimasi, penggunaan besi beton berdiameter 13mm dapat dihemat sebanyak 59 lonjor (setara dengan penghematan 5,97%).
Does Lactobacillus reuteri influence ergothioneine levels in the human body?
Authors: Cheah Irwin K. , Lee Jovan Z. , Tang Richard M. Y. , Koh Pei Wen , Halliwell Barry
Published: April 2022

The dietary thione‐thiol, ergothioneine (ET), accumulates in human and animal tissues and may play important roles in disease prevention. ET biosynthesis has only been described in fungi and certain bacteria, and humans and animals are widely assumed to accumulate ET solely from diet. However, a recent study suggested that Lactobacillus/Limosilactobacillus reuteri, a commensal gut bacterium, may produce ET, thereby protecting the host against social defeat stress and sleep disturbances. Upon our further investigation, no evidence of ET biosynthesis was observed in L. reuteri when a heavy‐labelled histidine precursor was administered. Instead, we discovered that L. reuteri avidly accumulates ET. This observation may indicate a possible mechanism by which the gut microbiota could influence tissue levels of ET in the host.
Testing awareness in focal seizures: Clinical practice and interpretation of current guidelines
Authors: Contreras Ramirez Violeta , Vaddiparti Aparna , Blumenfeld Hal
Published: April 2022

The International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) classification of focal seizures uses recall of experiences post‐ictally to assess for awareness and not ictal responsiveness to external stimuli, stating that responsiveness is often not tested. We investigated how clinicians assess for seizure awareness by administering an online survey. We found that most respondents use both responsiveness and recall to assess for awareness in the clinic (78%) and in the epilepsy monitoring unit (72%). Furthermore, 60% of respondents believe that the ILAE recommends using both measures. Given our results, we believe that using both responsiveness and recall would provide a more practical classification of impaired consciousness in focal seizures.
Imagination and the prosocial personality: Mapping the effect of episodic simulation on helping across prosocial traits
Authors: Campbell Dylan , Tusche Anita , Bo O'Connor Brendan
Published: April 2022

Prior work suggests that imagining helping others increases prosocial intentions and behavior toward those individuals. But is this true for everyone, or only for those who tend toward—or away from—helping more generally? The current study (N = 283) used an imagined helping paradigm and a battery of behavioral and self‐report measures of trait prosociality to determine whether the prosocial benefits of imagination depend upon an individual's general tendency to help others. Replicating prior work, we found links between imagination and prosociality and support for a three‐factor model of prosociality comprising altruistically, norm‐motivated, and self‐reported prosocial behaviors. Centrally, the effects of imagination on prosociality were slightly larger forlessaltruistic individuals but independent of norm‐motivated and self‐reported prosociality. These results suggest leveraging people's abilities for episodic simulation as a promising strategy for increasing prosociality in general, and perhaps particularly for those least likely to help otherwise.
Duo Cadherin‐Functionalized Microparticles Synergistically Induce Chondrogenesis and Cartilage Repair of Stem Cell Aggregates
Authors: Wang Xueping , Xu Xingquan , Zhang Yan , An Xueying , Zhang Xue , Chen Guoqiang , Jiang Qing , Yang Jun
Published: April 2022

Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) aggregates incorporated with microparticles of functional materials have shown promising prospects in the field of cell therapy for cartilage repair. Given the importance of cadherins in modulating the stemness and chondrogenesis of MSCs, the use of transforming growth factorβ1 (TGFβ1)‐loaded poly (lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA)‐based composite microparticles inspired by duo cadherin (human E‐ and N‐cadherin fusion proteins) to construct a bioartificial stem cell niche in engineered human MSC (hMSC) aggregates to promote chondrogenesis and cartilage regeneration is proposed. The hE/N‐cadherin‐functionalized PLGA/chitosan‐heparin‐TGFβ1 (Duo hE/N‐cad@P/C‐h‐TGFβ1) microparticles spatiotemporally upregulates the endogenous E/N‐cadherin expression of hMSC aggregates which further amplifies the chondrogenic differentiation and modulate paracrine and anti‐inflammatory functions of hMSCs toward constructing a favorable microenvironment for chondrogenesis. The Duo hE/N‐cad@P/C‐h‐TGFβ1 microparticles finely regulate the response of hMSCs to biochemical and mechanical signal stimuli in the microenvironment through the cadherin/catenin‐Yes‐associated protein signal transduction, which inhibits the hypertrophy of hMSC‐derived chondrocytes. Furthermore, immunofluorescent and histological examinations show that the Duo hE/N‐cad@P/C‐h‐TGFβ1 microparticles significantly improve regeneration of cartilage and subchondral bone in vivo. Together, the application of duo cadherin‐functionalized microparticles is considered an innovative material‐wise approach to exogenously activate hMSC aggregates for functional applications in regenerative medicine.
Two‐Photon Small‐Molecule Fluorogenic Probes for Visualizing Endogenous Nitroreductase Activities from Tumor Tissues of a Cancer Patient
Authors: Yu Changmin , Wang Shuangxi , Xu Chenchen , Ding Yang , Zhang Gaobin , Yang Naidi , Wu Qiong , Xiao Qicai , Wang Limin , Fang Bin , Pu Chibin , Ge Jingyan , Gao Liqian , Li Lin , Yao Shao Q.
Published: April 2022

Nitroreductase (NTR), a common enzymatic biomarker of hypoxia, is widely used to evaluate tumor microenvironments. To date, numerous optical probes have been reported for NTRs detection. Approaches capable of concisely guiding the probe design of NTRs suitable for deep‐tissue imaging, however, are still lacking. As such, direct optical imaging of endogenous NTR activities from tumors derived from cancer patients is thus far not possible. Herein, aided by computational calculations, the authors have successfully developed a series of two‐photon (TP) small‐molecule fluorogenic probes capable of sensitively detecting general NTR activities from various biological samples; by optimizing the distance between the recognition moiety and the reactive site of NTRs from different sources, the authors have discovered and experimentally proven that X4 displays the best performance in both sensitivity and selectivity. Furthermore, X4 shows excellent TP excited fluorescence properties capable of directly monitoring/imaging endogenous NTR activities from live mammalian cells, growing zebrafish, and tumor‐bearing mice. Finally, with an outstanding TP tissue‐penetrating imaging property, X4 is used, for the first time, to successfully detect endogenous NTR activities from the liver lysates and cardia tissues of a cancer patient. The work may provide a universal strategy to design novel TP small‐molecule enzymatic probes in future clinical applications.
Structural Dynamics and Tunability for Colloidal Tin Halide Perovskite Nanostructures
Authors: Gahlot Kushagra , de Graaf Sytze , Duim Herman , Nedelcu Georgian , Koushki Razieh M. , Ahmadi Majid , Gavhane Dnyaneshwar , Lasorsa Alessia , De Luca Oreste , Rudolf Petra , van der Wel Patrick C. A. , Loi Maria A. , Kooi Bart J. , Portale Giuseppe , Calbo Joaquín , Protesescu Loredana
Published: April 2022

Lead halide perovskite nanocrystals are highly attractive for next‐generation optoelectronics because they are easy to synthesize and offer great compositional and morphological tunability. However, the replacement of lead by tin for sustainability reasons is hampered by the unstable nature of Sn2+ oxidation state and by an insufficient understanding of the chemical processes involved in the synthesis. Here, an optimized synthetic route is demonstrated to obtain stable, tunable, and monodisperse CsSnI3 nanocrystals, exhibiting well‐defined excitonic peaks. Similar to lead halide perovskites, these nanocrystals are prepared by combining a precursor mixture of SnI2, oleylamine, and oleic acid, with a Cs‐oleate precursor. Among the products, nanocrystals with 10 nm lateral size in the γ‐orthorhombic phase prove to be the most stable. To achieve such stability, an excess of precursor SnI2 as well as substoichiometric Sn:ligand ratios are key. Structural, compositional, and optical investigations complemented by first‐principle density functional theory calculations confirm that nanocrystal nucleation and growth follow the formation of (R‐NH3+)2SnI4 nanosheets, with R = C18H35. Under specific synthetic conditions, stable mixtures of 3D nanocrystals CsSnI3 and 2D nanosheets (Ruddlesden–Popper (R‐NH3+)2Csn−1SnnI3n+1 with n > 1) are obtained. These results set a path to exploiting the high potential of Sn halide perovskite nanocrystals for opto‐electronic applications.
Multifunctional and Mechanically Robust Porous Diamond with Large Electroactive Surfaces via Electrically Conductive and Insulating Templates for 3D Electrode Applications
Authors: Ashcheulov Petr , Hák Ondřej , Sedláková Silvia , Taylor Andrew , Baluchová Simona , Schwarzová‐Pecková Karolina , Davydova Marina , Kopeček Jaromír , Klimša Ladislav , Vondráček Martin , Honolka Jan , Mortet Vincent
Published: April 2022

Highly functional 3D biological systems, which are ordinary in this physical world, suggest that traditional planar/flat materials when assembled into 3D variants, can deliver significantly higher levels of functionality and efficiency. Thanks to its set of unique properties, diamond has received significant recognition as the material of choice for a variety of functional platforms, however, implementation of diamond in real‐world applications has lagged behind alternative materials, which offer a greater degree of versatility. In this regard, for applications to benefit from diamond‐specific properties, approaches on fabrication of diamond beyond the common planar form in a practical and scalable manner are required today. Capitalizing on the ability to synthesize diamond over large areas, this study demonstrates fabrication of porous boron‐doped diamond (BDD) in freestanding form and on wafer‐compatible sizes. Porous BDD electrodes deliver robust electrochemical stability and exceptional electrical characteristics. Aiming to utilize the full potential of diamond properties, this study examines the impact of the BDD porous structure on the ability of electrodes to effectively remove organic pollutants from simulated wastewater and to provide enhanced sensitivity/selectivity of biologically active compounds. This study represents an important step in achieving diamond with extended functionality suitable for industrial/commercial scale implementation.
Solution‐Processed h‐BN Film as an Alignment Layer for Liquid Crystal Devices: Realization of a Non‐Polymer Approach for Unidirectional Alignment over Unprecedentedly Large Areas
Authors: Pisharody Gayathri Ramachandra , Sahoo Priyabrata , Rao Doddamane Sreenivasamurthy Shankar , Matte Hema Sundara Siva Ramakrishna , Prasad Subbarao Krishna
Published: April 2022

Fabrication of liquid crystal devices heavily relies on the alignment layer providing the mandatory unidirectional orientation of the nematic molecules. Drawbacks of the traditional mechanically rubbed polymer layer have prompted to find better alternatives. However, cost‐effective methods for large‐area unidirectional alignment are still elusive. The latest attempt has been to use 2D materials deposited through the well‐known chemical vapor deposition process, invariably inviting all the associated complexities including high‐temperature processing, cumbersome transfer onto the required substrate, etc. Most importantly, the achieved domain size over which the nematic molecules exhibit unidirectional planar orientation, has been too small (sub‐mm2) for employable devices. Here, the authors present a room temperature solution process for obtaining h‐BN dispersion and directly depositing it as a film on the device substrate using the electrophoretic technique. The achieved layer far surpasses the size limitation mentioned above, resulting in unidirectional LC orientation over at least 4 cm2 and promising for much larger areas with the electrical and electro‐optic switching performance being comparable to an industry‐standard device. The success of this simpler method establishes 2D materials as strong contenders for achieving non‐contact LC alignment and, in a broader sense, brings the much‐needed impetus to explore new horizons for solution‐processed devices.
Remarkable Stability Improvement with a High‐Performance PEALD‐IZO/IGZO Top‐Gate Thin‐Film Transistor via Modulating Dual‐Channel Effects
Authors: Kim Yoon‐Seo , Lee Won‐Bum , Oh Hye‐Jin , Hong TaeHyun , Park Jin‐Seong
Published: April 2022

Plasma‐enhanced atomic layer deposition (PEALD)‐based bilayer IZO (back channel)/IGZO top‐gate thin‐film transistors (TFTs) with different IZO and IGZO layer thicknesses are fabricated to evaluate the correlation between thickness and electrical characteristics/reliability caused by dual‐channel modulation. The dual‐channel formed by IZO stacked on the backchannel improves both mobility and reliability of devices as the IZO layer thickness increases. In the TCAD simulation, as the thickness of IZO increases, the current flowing through the IZO channel among the dual channels increases and the main channel transition from IGZO to IZO occurs above a certain IZO layer thickness. The main channel transition to IZO, which has high mobility and is located in the backchannel away from the gate insulator (GI), leads to a mobility increase with a lower threshold voltage (Vth) shift and a remarkable improvement of reliability deteriorated by the GI. As a result, PEALD‐based IZO/IGZO TG TFTs exhibit both high mobility (≈40 cm2 V−1 s−1) and high stability (ΔVth = ‐0.07 V) of a positive bias temperature stress up to 10 800 s. This suggests that ALD‐based dual‐channel regulation by nanoscale thickness control of the stacking oxide semiconductor can overcome the trade‐off between mobility and reliability.
Visible‐Light‐Induced Oxidation of Diazenyl‐Protected Tetrahydroisoquinolines and Isoindolines for the Synthesis of Functionalized Lactams
Authors: Zhang Tao , Wang Yanhong , Wang Bin , Jin Weiwei , Xia Yu , Liu Chenjiang , Zhang Yonghong
Published: April 2022

A visible‐light‐induced oxidation of diazenyl‐protected tetrahydroisoquinolines and isoindolines for the synthesis of structurally diverse lactams is developed. The reaction was carried out with Eosin Y‐Na2 as an organic photocatalyst and molecular oxygen as an oxidant, and the desired functionalized N‐aryldiazenyl‐lactams were obtained under mild and transition metal‐free conditions. The utility of this method is showcased by the gram‐scale synthesis and deprotection of the N‐aryldiazenyl‐lactam product.

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Plastic Monolithic Mixed‐Conducting Interlayer for Dendrite‐Free Solid‐State Batteries
Authors: Xiong Bing‐Qing , Chen Shunqiang , Luo Xuan , Nian Qingshun , Zhan Xiaowen , Wang Chengwei , Ren Xiaodi
Published: April 2022

Solid‐state electrolytes (SSEs) hold a critical role in enabling high‐energy‐density and safe rechargeable batteries with Li metal anode. Unfortunately, nonuniform lithium deposition and dendrite penetration due to poor interfacial solid–solid contact are hindering their practical applications. Here, solid‐state lithium naphthalenide (Li‐Naph(s)) is introduced as a plastic monolithic mixed‐conducting interlayer (PMMCI) between the garnet electrolyte and the Li anode via a facile cold process. The thin PMMCI shows a well‐ordered layered crystalline structure with excellent mixed‐conducting capability for both Li+ (4.38 × 10–3 S cm–1) and delocalized electrons (1.01 × 10–3 S cm–1). In contrast to previous composite interlayers, this monolithic material enables an intrinsically homogenous electric field and Li+ transport at the Li/garnet interface, thus significantly reducing the interfacial resistance and achieving uniform and dendrite‐free Li anode plating/stripping. As a result, Li symmetric cells with the PMMCI‐modified garnet electrolyte show highly stable cycling for 1200 h at 0.2 mA cm–2 and 500 h at a high current density of 1 mA cm–2. The findings provide a new interface design strategy for solid‐state batteries using monolithic mixed‐conducting interlayers.
Comparing Proton Conduction in Potassium and Ammonium Borosulfate—Isostructural Inorganic Polyelectrolytes Exhibiting High Proton Mobility
Authors: Chaloux Brian L. , Ridenour J. August , Johannes Michelle D. , Epshteyn Albert
Published: April 2022

A scalable new method for the synthesis of borosulfate compounds in sulfuric acid providing control over product crystallite size is reported as an alternative to traditional methods requiring slow growth from oleum. This new synthetic approach is used to prepare three isostructural, 1D borosulfates: one containing only ammonium cations, another containing only potassium cations, and the third sample with a solid solution of 1:1 ammonium–potassium. Proton conduction in polycrystalline pellets of these borosulfate electrolytes is compared by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) simulations. For a given cation (e.g., NH4
+), conductivity decreases by three orders of magnitude with decreasing particle size while maintaining constant activation energy, indicating that proton conduction is not primarily a grain‐boundary process. AIMD simulations show that excess proton mobility in K[B(SO4)2] is in line with that of NH4[B(SO4)2], being a backbone (not cation) mediated process. Although K[B(SO4)2] exhibits higher activation energy (60.6 ± 2.0 kJ mol−1) than NH4[B(SO4)2] (33.8 ± 1.0 kJ mol−1), at 200 °C it achieves comparable conductivity to NH4[B(SO4)2] samples, which is attributable to hydrolytic B–O–H defects being the common source of mobile protons in these materials.
Progress in In Situ Research on Dynamic Surface Reconstruction of Electrocatalysts for Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Shen Wei , Yin Jie , Jin Jing , Hu Yang , Hou Yichao , Xiao Jintao , Zhao Yong-Qing , Xi Pinxian
Published: April 2022

Renewable energy and sustainable development have attracted considerable attention due to the rapid growth of energy consumption and environmental pollution. The further development of electrocatalytic water splitting can promote the development and application of next‐generation sustainable energy systems. However, the lack of an in‐depth understanding of the dynamic restructuring process occurring on the catalyst surface in the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) has limited the further development and improvement of OER‐related theories. Therefore, real‐time monitoring and analysis of the dynamic surface reconstruction process has a great significance for deeply understanding the intrinsic catalytic mechanism of OER. Herein, the latest progress on the in situ methods for characterizing the surface reconstruction of various transition metal‐based OER electrocatalysts in recent years is summarized. Many commonly methods used in situ characterization techniques have been reviewed to reveal the correlation between structure, surface reconstruction, and intrinsic activity.
Relationship between yield and lodging traits of maize under different planting densities
Authors: Jiang Long , Zhang Jingzhe , Chen Dinayuan
Published: April 2022

Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the main food crops in China but the problems with lodging have seriously affected the quality and production. In this study, lodging resistant and density tolerant varieties of maize were screened. The relationships between rind penetration strength (RPS), stalk breaking strength (SBS), and yield under two different planting densities were studied. Eight hybrid combinations were set up under the planting densities of 75,000 and 90,000 plants ha–2 and their effects on yield were determined with a regression equation method. The results showed that density had a greater effect on yield through its effect on lodging rate. Finally, high‐yielding maize varieties JKY143 and JKY182 with stronger planting density tolerance were selected to provide reference points and technical support for maize‐breeding programs focusing on plant density tolerance and lodging resistance.
Longitudinal changes in cerebral blood flow and their relation with cognitive decline in patients with dementia: Current knowledge and future directions
Authors: Weijs Ralf W.J. , Shkredova Daria A. , Brekelmans Anna C.M. , Thijssen Dick H.J. , Claassen Jurgen A.H.R.
Published: April 2022

The pathophysiology underlying cognitive decline is multifactorial, with increasing literature suggesting a role for cerebrovascular health. Cerebral blood flow (CBF) is an important element of cerebrovascular health, which raises questions regarding the relation between CBF and cognitive decline. Cross‐sectional studies demonstrate lower CBF in patients with cognitive decline compared to healthy age‐matched peers. Remarkably, longitudinal studies do not support a link between CBF reductions and cognitive decline. These studies, however, are often limited by small sample sizes and may therefore be underpowered to detect small effect sizes. Therefore, through a systematic review and meta‐analysis of longitudinal studies, we examined whether longitudinal changes in global CBF are related to cognitive decline in subjects with Alzheimer's disease, and qualitatively described findings on regional CBF. Considering the growing impact of dementia and the lack of treatment options, it is important to understand the role of CBF as a prognostic biomarker and/or treatment target in dementia.
Size‐Dependent Inhibition of Sperm Motility by Copper Particles as a Path toward Male Contraception
Authors: Chattopadhyay Purnesh , Magdanz Veronika , Hernández-Meliá María , Borchert Konstantin B. L. , Schwarz Dana , Simmchen Juliane
Published: April 2022

Effective inhibition of sperm motility using a spermicide can be a promising approach in developing non‐invasive male contraceptive agents. Copper is known to have contraceptive properties and has been used clinically for decades as intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUDs) for contraception in females. Beyond that, the spermicidal use of copper is not explored much further, even though its use can also subdue the harmful effects caused by the hormonal female contraceptive agents on the environment. Herein, the size, concentration, and time‐dependent in vitro inhibition of bovine spermatozoa by copper microparticles are studied. The effectivity in inhibiting sperm motility is correlated with the amount of Cu2+ ions released by the particles during incubation. The copper particles cause direct suppression of sperm motility and viability upon incubation and thereby show potential as sperm‐inhibiting, hormone‐free candidate for male contraception. In addition, biocompatibility tests using a cervical cell line help optimizing the size and concentration of the copper particles for the best spermicidal action while avoiding toxicity to the surrounding tissue.
Manganese‐Catalysed Deuterium Labelling of Anilines and Electron‐Rich (Hetero)Arenes
Authors: Bourriquen Florian , Rockstroh Nils , Bartling Stephan , Junge Kathrin , Beller Matthias
Published: April 2022

There is a constant need for deuterium‐labelled products for multiple applications in life sciences and beyond. Here, a new class of heterogeneous catalysts is reported for practical deuterium incorporation in anilines, phenols, and heterocyclic substrates. The optimal material can be conveniently synthesised and allows for high deuterium incorporation using deuterium oxide as isotope source. This new catalyst has been fully characterised and successfully applied to the labelling of natural products as well as marketed drugs.
Promising Deep‐Ultraviolet Birefringent Materials via Rational Design and Assembly of Planar π‐Conjugated [B(OH)3] and [B3O3(OH)3] Functional Species
Authors: Jiao Jiahao , Cheng Meng , Yang Rong , Yan Yuchen , Zhang Min , Zhang Fangfang , Yang Zhihua , Pan Shilie
Published: April 2022

Birefringent materials play a significant role in modulating polarized light in optical communication and the laser industry. However, the discovery of deep ultraviolet (DUV,λ<200 nm) birefringent materials still faces a serious challenge. Herein, we propose hydroxylated π‐conjugated [B(OH)3] and [B3O3(OH)3] units for designing DUV birefringent materials. Innovatively, four new hydroxyborates have been synthesized under mild synthesis conditions. They present four novel pseudo layers that benefit from the large degree of freedom assembly modes of [B(OH)3] and [B3O3(OH)3] genes and large birefringence (0.057–0.123@532 nm). Moreover, the Cs3[B(OH)3]2Cl3crystal features a short DUV cutoff edge (180 nm), which further indicates that the reported compounds are potential DUV birefringent crystals. Free and flexible assembly modes of π‐conjugated [B(OH)3] and [B3O3(OH)3] groups endow them a particular advantage as significant genes for exploring promising DUV birefringent materials.
Preparation of multifunctional biohydrogel sensors with one freeze–thaw process
Authors: Tian Yi , Zhu Xing , Gan Ting , He Bin , Wang Xuechuan
Published: April 2022

Conductive hydrogels have a significant prospect in the design of bioactuators, healthcare monitoring sensors, and flexible wearable devices. However, their poor temperature tolerance and biotoxicity limit their further applications. In this study, a biosensor based on hydrogels with good biocompatibility, antifreezing, and moisturizing properties was synthesized using a one freeze–thaw process. The sensor could withstand 60°C for 400 min or −20°C without freezing and maintain good conductivity. The excellent antibacterial activity and biocompatibility of the sensor ensure the safety of its biosecurity applications. Thus, the proposed biosensor has potential bio‐applications as a bionic material under extreme conditions.
Catalytic Hydrogenation of Epoxides to Alcohols
Authors: Thiyagarajan Subramanian , Gunanathan Chidambaram
Published: April 2022

Atom‐economical catalytic reactions are a highly enticing strategy because all atoms of the starting materials are incorporated into the products. Catalytic hydrogenation of epoxides to alcohols is an attractive and alternative protocol to other synthetic methodologies for the synthesis of alcohols from alkenes. In the last two decades, catalytic hydrogenation of epoxides to alcohols has made remarkable progress in chemical synthesis. In this review, an overview of the catalytic hydrogenation of both terminal and internal epoxides to the corresponding alcohols is presented. An outline of both homogeneous and heterogeneous hydrogenation of epoxides to the corresponding alcohols is provided. Moreover, the selectivity, efficiency, and the reaction mechanisms of these epoxide hydrogenation reactions are highlighted.
Multimodal Imaging and Synergetic Chemodynamic/Photodynamic Therapy Achieved Using an NaGdF4,Yb,Er@ NaGdF4,Yb,Tm@NaYF4@Fe‐MOFs Nanocomposite
Authors: Ling Bo , Wang Yaguang , Mi Ruo , Wang Di , Chen Hongqi , Li Xiaohu , Zhang Ye , Wang Lun
Published: April 2022

Here, NaGdF4,Yb,Er@NaGdF4,Yb,Tm@NaYF4 core@shell@shell three‐layer structure of upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) coated with Fe−Tetrakis (4‐carboxyphenyl) porphine (TCPP) metal‐organic frameworks (Fe‐MOFs) nanocomposite (UCNPs@MOFs) was designed and constructed for multimodal imaging and synergetic chemodynamic therapy (CDT)/photodynamic therapy (PDT) of tumors. The UCNPs@MOFs were successfully applied for tumor cells imaging in vitro and in vivo in near‐infrared (NIR) region. The doped Gd was used as contrast agent for the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of mouse tumors. The luminescence in the UV‐vis region was absorbed by the Fe‐MOFs to produce singlet oxygen (1O2) for PDT. The Fe3+ doped in the MOFs can catalyze H2O2 to produce oxygen and hydroxyl radical (⋅OH). Hydroxyl radical is used in CDT and cooperates with the 1O2 of PDT. Based on the CDT/PDT synergistic effects, the UCNPs@MOFs nanocomposite had obviously enhanced tumor inhibitory efficiency in vivo. These results described that the asprared UCNPs@MOFs nanocomposite have great potential in the effective multimodal imaging and treatment of tumors.
Recent Advances in Fluorescent Chemosensors for Protein Kinases
Authors: Hu Jun , Li Gao
Published: April 2022

Protein kinases are involved in almost all biological activities. The activities of different kinases reflect the normal or abnormal status of the human body. Therefore, detecting the activities of different kinases is important for disease diagnosis and drug discovery. Fluorescent probes offer opportunities for studying kinase behaviors at different times and spatial locations. In this review, we summarize different kinds of fluorescent chemosensors that have been used to detect the activities of many different kinases.
exo′‐Selective Construction of Spirobipyrrolidines by the Silver‐catalyzed Asymmetric [3+2] Cycloaddition of Imino Esters with 4‐Benzylidene‐2,3‐dioxopyrrolidines
Authors: Furuya Shohei , Kanemoto Kazuya , Fukuzawa Shin‐ichi
Published: April 2022

An unprecedented Ag‐catalyzed exo′‐selective [3+2] cycloaddition of imino esters with 4‐benzylidene‐2,3‐dioxopyrrolidines is described. The reaction was efficiently catalyzed by Ag/(R, Sp)‐ThioClickFerrophos (TCF) leading to the construction of the corresponding spirobipyrrolidine scaffolds in excellent enantio‐ and diastereoselectivities. This reaction is the first example of a silver‐catalyzed exo′‐selective asymmetric [3+2] cycloaddition, as well as the first exo′‐selective spirobipyrrolidine construction via a [3+2] cycloaddition process using imino esters. The wide substrate scope of this reaction enabled the preparation of structurally diverse spirobipyrrolidine derivatives, which are attracting attention as targets for drug discovery. Mechanistic studies suggested that the unusual exo′‐selectivity of this reaction is not due to epimerization following the common exo‐ or endo‐selective cycloaddition, but instead is due to a stepwise Michael addition/Mannich sequence with bond rotation.
The Sulfinylsulfonation of alkynes for β‐Sulfinyl alkenylsulfone
Authors: Zhang Zhansong , Song Qingmin , Feng Chengjie , Wang Zikun , Zhao Wanjun , Ning Yongquan , Wu Yong
Published: April 2022

Here we report the sulfinylsulfonation of alkynes to afford β‐sulfinyl alkenylsulfone products with a broad substrate scope, excellent functional group compatibility, and high yield. Moreover, the sulfinylsulfonation reaction of enyne can also be realized for constructing functionalized carbo‐ and heterocycles through a radical cascade cyclization process.
Brønsted Acid‐Catalysed Epoxide Ring‐Opening Using Amine Nucleophiles: A Facile Access to β‐Amino Alcohols
Authors: Tyagi Aparna , Yadav Naveen , Khan Jabir , Mondal Sankalan , Hazra Chinmoy Kumar
Published: April 2022

A mild, efficient, and metal‐free synthetic protocol for the synthesis of β‐amino alcohols is reported. The reaction proceeds at room temperature with only 0.5 mol % catalyst loading and affords β‐amino alcohol derivatives in excellent yield. This protocol is well‐tolerated by a wide range of styrene oxide and aniline derivatives. A notably efficacious gram‐scale synthesis is also reported with a high TON=842. Further, the Hammett correlation study was also performed to identify the rate‐determining step.