bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adenocarcinoma metastático de glândula hepatoide em cão (Canis lupus)
Authors: Pereira Elisa Rita Oliveira , Nakamura Thais Yuri , Serafim Janayna Maria Parente , Martins Guilherme da Silva , Friolani Milena , Porto Camila Dias
Published: June 2022

umores da glândula hepatoide acometem mais frequentemente cães, sendo sua epidemiologia cães machos, de meia idade a idosos, não castrados. Possui natureza maligna, invasiva e alta capacidade de metastização. O diagnóstico é feito por meio de exames citopatológico e histopatológico e o tratamento consiste na excisão cirúrgica seguida de quimioterapia. Um cão, sem raça definida, 14 anos, macho, 6,6 kg, com diagnóstico prévio de adenocarcinoma de glândula hepatoide, foi atendido no Hospital Veterinário da Universidade de Marília. A queixa principal era de apatia e fraqueza de membros pélvicos, além de um nódulo em região inguinal. O animal foi submetido a tratamento clínico para controle da dor e foram realizados exames citológico e de imagem, constatando-se metástase de carcinoma em região inguinal. O animal veio a óbito, realizando-se o exame necroscópico com conclusão de adenocarcinoma de glândula hepatoide metastático. Metástases únicas em órgãos podem ser encontradas, no entanto, quadros difusos são pouco encontrados na literatura, fazendo com que o estadiamento e acompanhamento tumoral seja necessário frequentemente com o intuito de observar possíveis metástases precocemente.
Inflammation and fibrosis in the coal dust-exposed lung described by confocal Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Wang Wenyang , Mu Min , Zou Yuanjie , Li Bing , Cao Hangbing , Hu Dong , Tao Xinrong
Published: June 2022

Background

Coal workers’ pneumoconiosis (CWP) is an occupational disease that severely damages the life and health of miners. However, little is known about the molecular and cellular mechanisms changes associated with lung inflammation and fibrosis induced by coal dust. As a non-destructive technique for measuring biological tissue, confocal Raman spectroscopy provides accurate molecular fingerprints of label-free tissues and cells. Here, the progression of lung inflammation and fibrosis in a murine model of CWP was evaluated using confocal Raman spectroscopy.

Methods

A mouse model of CWP was constructed and biochemical analysis in lungs exposed to coal dust after 1 month (CWP-1M) and 3 months (CWP-3M) vs control tissues (NS) were used by confocal Raman spectroscopy. H&E, immunohistochemical and collagen staining were used to evaluate the histopathology alterations in the lung tissues.

Results

The CWP murine model was successfully constructed, and the mouse lung tissues showed progression of inflammation and fibrosis, accompanied by changes in NF-κB, p53, Bax, and Ki67. Meanwhile, significant differences in Raman bands were observed among the different groups, particularly changes at 1,248, 1,448, 1,572, and 746 cm−1. These changes were consistent with collagen, Ki67, and Bax levels in the CWP and NS groups.

Conclusion

Confocal Raman spectroscopy represented a novel approach to the identification of the biochemical changes in CWP lungs and provides potential biomarkers of inflammation and fibrosis.
The Law on Presumption in Corruption Cases in Malaysia
Authors: Rahman Rohana Abdul , Yeon Asmah Laili , Ayub Zainal Amin , Shariff Madya Nurretina Ahmad
Published: June 2022

From a legal perspective, bribery and corruption cases can be unduly complicated and difficult to prove because there is no real victim. In many corruption cases, the prosecution faces hostile or uncooperative witnesses who refuse to assist the prosecution in such cases.  To reduce the complexity of proving that any advantage was given corruptly, the law on presumption of corruption has been incorporated in the old Prevention of Corruption Act 1961, and later in Anti-Corruption Act 1997 and currently the Malaysian Anti Corruption Commission Act 2009. There has been mixed reaction from the prosecution and defense lawyers with respect to the law on presumption of corruption in bribery and corruption cases. This paper seeks to highlight the application of the presumption of corruption in certain circumstances as provided in the statute, the right to defend on balance of probability and whether such presumption is contrary to human rights. The paper argues that once statutory presumption of corruption is invoked, it can be challenging to rebut and the burden of proof must remain on the prosecution to prove their case beyond reasonable doubt.  The paper stresses that presumption of corruption is rebuttable if the accused is able to discharge his burden of proving on a balance of probabilities that his receipt of the same was not a gratification.
Preliminary Fraud Risk Assessment of a Pharmaceutical Distributor
Authors: Codaste Harold L. , Lasiste Charlnette Mae T. , Delantar Alexander Franco A.
Published: June 2022

According to the CPA-Journal Fraud Aware report, small businesses (classified as those with less than 100 employees) suffer from fraud more frequently than large organizations and are hit by higher average losses. The purpose of this research was to initially assess the fraud level of a pharmaceutical distributor in Mandaue City. The participating business in this study was a pharmaceutical distributor of medicines. Descriptive design and simple statistics were used in this research. The organization had 11 to 50 employees. The assessment was only a guiding tool to assess the level of fraud, not the existence of fraud in the subject of the study. The fraud risk level was 66.88%. This fraud level meant that the level of fraud of business was moderate. This analysis was based on Williams and Kollar (2013). The controls needed improvement. In the analysis of the second-problem statement, the fraud risk level was moderate. Indeed, moderate risk meant improvement on the internal controls because only the majority of the controls were adhered by the management of the business leaving the rest substantially unattended. Thus, emphasis on certain accounting controls can lower the fraud risk of the business. In general, the recommendations aimed either to correct existing business practices or to enforce the implementation of business controls embodied in the tool used in the study.
The Veracity of Vote Buying: Perspectives of the Philippine Electoral System
Authors: Abocejo Ferdinand T.
Published: June 2022

Vote-buying during election is a phenomenon in Philippine politics clandestinely practiced as underground activities by political candidates who utilize it as a political strategy. This study examined the vote buying phenomenon of the Philippines during periodic elections in the national and local levels. It utilized secondary data from various source agencies and published refereed journals on practices of fraud and vote buying which have crucially shape out election results and the electoral system of the country.  The findings suggest that Filipino traditional voters attribute vote buying to “patron-client relations” during elections where parity and justice are momentarily accomplished when political candidates carry out their obligations and lend supports with vested interests to their constituents. Operationally for many Filipino voters, vote buying is a tangible “gift” from aspiring candidates which influences their choice and produce instrumental compliance. This phenomenon underlying the patron-client ties manifests a two-fold bond of reciprocity and mutual obligation linking individuals of disproportionate social status and authority based on the exchange of money and votes. Those less educated and rural area residents are among the more vulnerable electoral groups to vote buying. The study concludes that vote buying as practiced in the Philippines has penetrated all levels of the bureaucracy. The veracity of vote-buying has become culturally intricate with fraud, intimidation and violent means to win the electoral race.
Value Chain and Policy Studies in Support of Native Pig Production in Eastern Visayas, Philippines
Authors: Quintua Kimberly Michelle R. , Palada Eva P. , Corado Evelyn A. , Casillano Yasmin C.
Published: June 2022

There are ongoing efforts to improve the native pig industry in Asia and the Philippines. This study investigated the flow of native pigs from the raisers to the final consumers and examined public legislation that impacts on the functioning of the chain. This descriptive study utilized a cross-sectional design of data collection obtained from a total of 80 respondents from Eastern Samar and Leyte using a survey questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequency, percent, mean, and range. Results showed that a farmer earns a margin of Php 500 (9.59 USD) per head for 6-7 months raising at a selling price of Php 100 (1.92 USD) per kg live. Slaughtering pigs and selling the meat by kilos give a margin of Php 1,400 (26.86 USD) per head. Processors earn a margin of Php 1,700 (32.61 USD) per head from selling lechon. Traders buy native pigs from raisers at Php 100/kilogram, live weight and earn a profit of Php 94.32 (1.81 USD) per kilogram. There are no known policies of LGUs which are focused solely on native pigs raising and their products. The lack of awareness of LGUs on native pigs' potential seems to be the reason why there are no ordinances that are supportive solely of native pig production and marketing.
Growth Performance, Meat Quality and Visceral Organ Evaluation of Swine Raised In Confinement and Free-Ranged Systems
Authors: Baquiller Mario N. , Amorado Keith Reamor R. , Mapula Jhon Marc C.
Published: June 2022

The study was conducted within ninety days duration from May 7-August 7, 2013. It aimed to determine whether the rearing system (either confinement or free â€“ ranged) can affect the growth performance, meat quality and visceral organ characteristics of swine. Twelve (12) heads of swine used in the study which was randomly distributed into two treatments assigned in confinement and free-range systems, respectively adopting the T-test as the statistical tool. The initial weights of swine were homogenous at the start of the study. However, after obtaining the gain in weights, results revealed that swine raised in the free-range system had a higher average weight and heavier stomach compared to the confinement system. It further revealed that the back fat of the free ranged swine is thinner compared to the swine in confinement system with 1.3 cm and 2 cm, respectively. The total feed consumed by the twelve heads of experimental animals were 2,714 kilograms for 90 days period with 13.73 % return on capital for free - ranged while 5.5 % for confinement. The overall return on capital of the entire experiment was 9.6 %. Therefore, the free-range system had significantly affected the growth performance of swine.
External Sector Macroeconomic Indices and Real Economy of Nigeria: An Empirical Analysis (1981 – 2020)
Authors: Uwakaeme O. S.
Published: June 2022

In recent times, the external sector of Nigeria’s economy has been characterized by instability, while the performance of her Real Economic Growth (RGDP) has remained below average. This study, therefore, investigated the relationship between her (RGDP), and some external sector macroeconomic indices, namely: Foreign Exchange Rate (FXR), Total Export (EXP). Trade Openness (TOR), Total Import (IMP), External Debt (EXTD), External Debt Service Charges, (EXDINT) and Foreign Direct Investment (FDIR), CBN is the source of the study data, spanning for a period of 1981 to 2020. The study applied Co-integration technique, Error Correction Model (ECM) and Granger Causality tests for the econometric analysis. Evidence from empirical results confirmed that, in the long run, only FDIR contributed positively to (RGDP), while the rest, had significant adverse effect on RGDP. The Granger Causality test established that only FDIR had bilateral relationship with RGDP while RGDP preceded EXP, TOR and FXR, implying that RGDP determines those variables without a feedback. EXTD, EXDINT and IMP maintained independent causal relationship. The ECM coeficient (-1.14), is significant and correctly signed (negative). It measures the speed of the adjustment, at which equilibrium is restored to RGDP, after the short-run disequilibrium in the selected indices. The implication is that RGDP growth process in Nigeria, in the long run, adjusts slowly to the changes in the selected indices, indicating a Policy lag effect. Consequently, Monetary authority should maintain efficient debt monitoring and management; effective and sustainable exchange rate management; infrastructural and technological development to beep up exportation. They should lay emphasis on stable political environment and sustainable economic policies to encourage more FDI. The Policy makers should make policies that would match the magnitude of the expected changes.
Correlation and Path Coefficient Analysis of Some Rice Genotypes (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Singh Shraddha , Singh A. K. , Singh Sumant Pratap , Singh Alok Kumar , Yadav R. K.
Published: June 2022

An experiment was carried out to study the correlation and path analysis in twenty-six rice (Oryza sativa L.) varieties, among 26 rice genotypes, 15 rice varieties and 11 landraces collections from hilly region of Mirzapur in eastern Uttar Pradesh. The experiment was performed during kharif 2021-22 in Randomized Block Design with three replications to analyze correlation and path Analysis. At phenotypic and genotypic level, number of grain per panicle (GPP 0.603), chlorophyll content (Chl 0.326), Ear bearing tillers per plant (EBT 0.356) showed highly positive significant correlation with yield per plant (YPP) to emerge as most important associates of grain yield in rice. Path analysis identified the highest positive direct effect on grain yield per plant was exhibited by number of grain per panicle (GPP 0.485), days to 50% flowering (DFF 0.414), plant height (PH at 45DAT 0.255), chlorophyll content (Chl 0.255), Ear bearing tillers per plant (EBT 0.173), plant height (PH at 30DAS 0.042), number of tillers per plant (NOT 0.029), panicle length (PL 0.024) are the most significant direct as well as indirect effect. Yield contributing components which under consideration at time of devising selection strategy aimed at developing varieties having higher yield.
Value Chain Analysis of Safflower: A Way Forward
Authors: Sowmya G. , Sravanthi K. , Sudhakar C. , Lavanya T. , Meena A. , Reddy T. Rajeshwar
Published: June 2022

Safflower is essentially a rabi season oil seed crop that grows well under the residual moisture with very limited requirement of water. This study traced the value chain of safflower in the Vikarabad district, in realization to the increased importance of safflower as a source of edible because of its nutritional status. The value chain analysis is helpful in identifying the product flow from producer to the consumers and defining the roles and responsibilities of all stakeholders along the chain. Value chain of safflower is complex with various stake holders along the chain and also the product flow is also observed   through various channels. There is a lot of untapped potential for value addition in safflower, which if exploited would help all the stakeholders along the value chain by increasing the profits to them.

Findings: The value chain of safflower is complex with the involvement of various stakeholders along the chain and the product flow was also observed to be through various channels. Though value addition to safflower has lot of potential but not exploited to the extent due to lack of knowledge about value added products and the complex nature of the crop.
Variability, Correlation, Path Coefficient and Genetic Diversity Analysis in Indian Mustard
Authors: Akkenapally Jeevan Sai , Chetariya C. P.
Published: June 2022

Phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation (PCV & GCV), heritability, genetic advance (GA), correlation, path and diversity analysis for fourteen characters in twenty-five genotypes of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.) were evaluated for seed yield and thirteen other yield contributing traits. Genetic variability indicated that, the PCV was greater than GCV for all the traits studied was majorly due to the influence of environment. High heritability along with high genetic advance as percent of mean were recorded for plant height, number of primary branches per plant, number of secondary branches per plant, length of main raceme, number of siliqua on main raceme, number of siliqua per plant, 1000 seed weight, biological yield per plant, seed yield per plant and harvest index, Indicating the breeding improvement through direct selection. In correlation analysis, seed yield per plant had significant and positive correlation with number of primary branches per plant, number of secondary branches, number of siliqua on main raceme, number of siliqua per plant, length of siliqua, number of seeds per siliqua, 1000 seed weight, biological yield per plant and harvest index at both genotypic and phenotypic levels. Path coefficient analysis indicated that, the highest positive direct effects was noted for days to 50% flowering, plant height, number of siliqua per plant, number of seeds per siliqua, length of main raceme, number of primary branches per plant, 1000 seed weight, biological yield per plant, harvest index. Therefore, these traits should be given more priority for selection in breeding programme. Genetic divergence assessed using D2 statistics for characters enabled grouping of all the genotypes in six clusters. Diversity among the clusters varied from 9.67 to 24.03 inter-cluster distances, cluster II and V showed maximum inter cluster distance followed by that between cluster V and VI. The genotypes falling in these clusters could be utilized for hybridization programme in Indian mustard.
Effect of Different Growth Regulators on Plant Growth and Yield of Bottle Gourd (Lagenaria siceraria L.) cv. Arka Bahar
Authors: Sabu Anna , Kerketta Anita , Topno Samir E.
Published: June 2022

An experiment was conducted during 2021 to study the effect of different growth regulators on bottle gourd cv. Arka Bahar during kharif season with three growth regulators at different concentrations: Ethrel (100ppm, 200ppm, 300ppm), NAA (150 ppm, 200ppm, 250ppm) and GA3 (50ppm, 100ppm, 150ppm).Water was used as control. The growth regulators were sprayed at two and four leaf stage. All the treatments were replicated three times in a randomized block design keeping the plot size 2m×2m. Plant growth regulators treatments rendered their significant effect on almost all the growth, flowering and yield of bottle gourd. The treatment T9 GA3 150 ppm was found maximum in increasing the vine length (9.01m) whereas T3 Ethrel 200 ppm was found most effective in terms of days to first appearance of male (40.89 days) and female flower (45.44 days), node number to first male (8.11) and female flower (10.11), number of male (16.33) and female flowers (11.33) per vine, fruit diameter (8.67 cm), fruit length (39.84 cm), fruit weight (1064.28 g), number of fruits per plant (10.11), fruit yield per plant (8.72 kg), fruit yield per hectare(29.01 t/ha) The significantly higher gross return (Rs 348120/ha), Net profit (Rs 269898/ha) and B: C ratio (4.45) was also recorded under ethrel 200 ppm (T3). Overall results revealed that application of ethrel 200 ppm proved to be better for different growth and yield traits in bottle gourd.
In silico Analysis of Transcription Factor Binding Sites and Impact of Defense Responsive Phytohormones in OsPR1a
Authors: Kumari Diksha , Prasad Bishun Deo , Dwivedi Padmanabh , Sahni Sangita
Published: June 2022

A variety of biotic and abiotic stress conditions result in the production and accumulation of pathogenesis related (PR) proteins. Transcriptional regulation of PR genes plays a vital role in defense response. In rice, the role of the PR1 gene in defense response has been studied, but critical examination of the OsPR1a gene after treatment with defense responsive phytohormones and regulation via promoter analysis has not been examined in-depth. Several signalling mechanisms are involved in the induction and repression of defense genes, which are mediated by salicylic acid (SA) and jasmonic acid (JA). Expression profiling was carried out to determine the effects of phytohormones, salicylic acid (SA), and jasmonic acid (JA) at 12 h, 24 h, and 48 h after treatment. Expression profiling indicates cumulative upregulation of OsPR1a gene upregulation at 12 h after SA and JA treatments, whereas it downregulates at 24 h and 48 h after JA treatment. We also performed a comprehensive in silico analysis of the OsPR1a gene to study how the transcription factor binding site (TFBS) regulate their gene expression.
Association Between Up-front Surgery and Risk of Stroke in US Veterans With Oropharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Sun Lova , Brody Robert , Candelieri Danielle , Anglin-Foote Tori , Lynch Julie A. , Maxwell Kara N. , Damrauer Scott , Ojerholm Eric , Lukens John N. , Cohen Roger B. , Getz Kelly D. , Hubbard Rebecca A. , Ky Bonnie
Published: June 2022

Importance

Cardiovascular events are an important cause of morbidity in patients with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC). Radiation and chemotherapy have been associated with increased risk of stroke; up-front surgery allows the opportunity for (chemo)radiotherapy de-escalation.

Objective

To evaluate whether up-front surgery was associated with decreased stroke risk compared to nonsurgical treatment for OPSCC.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study was conducted at the US Veterans Health Administration and examined US veterans diagnosed with nonmetastatic OPSCC from 2000 to 2020. Data cutoff was September 17, 2021, and data analysis was performed from October 2021 to February 2022.

Exposures

Up-front surgical treatment or definitive (chemo)radiotherapy as captured in cancer registry.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Cumulative incidence of stroke, accounting for death as a competing risk; and association between up-front surgery and stroke risk. After generating propensity scores for the probability of receiving surgical treatment and using inverse probability weighting (IPW) to construct balanced pseudo-populations, Cox regression was used to estimate a cause-specific hazard ratio (csHR) of stroke associated with surgical vs nonsurgical treatment.

Results

Of 10 436 patients, median (IQR) age was 61 (56-67) years; 10 329 (99%) were male; 1319 (13%) were Black, and 7823 (75%) were White; 2717 received up-front surgery, and 7719 received nonsurgical therapy with definitive (chemo)radiotherapy. The 10-year cumulative incidence of stroke was 12.5% (95% CI, 11.8%-13.3%) and death was 57.3% (95% CI, 56.2%-58.4%). Surgical patients who also received (chemo)radiotherapy had shorter radiation and chemotherapy courses than nonsurgical patients. After propensity score and IPW, the csHR of stroke for surgical treatment was 0.77 (95% CI, 0.66-0.91). This association was consistent across subgroups defined by age and baseline cardiovascular risk factors.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study, up-front surgical treatment was associated with a 23% reduced risk of stroke compared with definitive (chemo)radiotherapy. These findings present an important additional risk-benefit consideration to factor into treatment decisions and patient counseling and should motivate future studies to examine cardiovascular events in this high-risk population.
Neurospora casein kinase 1a recruits the circadian clock protein FRQvia the C‐terminal lobe of its kinase domain
Authors: Marzoll Daniela , Serrano Fidel E. , Diernfellner Axel C. R. , Brunner Michael
Published: June 2022

Timing by the circadian clock of Neurospora is associated with hyperphosphorylation of frequency (FRQ), which depends on anchoring casein kinase 1a (CK1a) to FRQ. It is not known how CK1a is anchored so that approximately 100 sites in FRQ can be targeted. Here, we identified two regions in CK1a, p1 and p2, that are required for anchoring to FRQ. Mutation of p1 or p2 impairs progressive hyperphosphorylation of FRQ. A p1‐mutated strain is viable but its circadian clock is non‐functional, whereas a p2‐mutated strain is non‐viable. Our data suggest that p1 and potentially also p2 in CK1a provide an interface for interaction with FRQ. Anchoring via p1‐p2 leaves the active site of CK1a accessible for phosphorylation of FRQ at multiple sites.
Explainability in music recommender systems
Authors: Afchar Darius , Melchiorre Alessandro B. , Schedl Markus , Hennequin Romain , Epure Elena V. , Moussallam Manuel
Published: June 2022

The most common way to listen to recorded music nowadays is via streaming platforms, which provide access to tens of millions of tracks. To assist users in effectively browsing these large catalogs, the integration of music recommender systems (MRSs) has become essential. Current real‐world MRSs are often quite complex and optimized for recommendation accuracy. They combine several building blocks based on collaborative filtering and content‐based recommendation. This complexity can hinder the ability to explain recommendations to end users, which is particularly important for recommendations perceived as unexpected or inappropriate. While pure recommendation performance often correlates with user satisfaction, explainability has a positive impact on other factors such as trust and forgiveness, which are ultimately essential to maintain user loyalty.

In this article, we discuss how explainability can be addressed in the context of MRSs. We provide perspectives on how explainability could improve music recommendation algorithms and enhance user experience. First, we review common dimensions and goals of recommenders explainability and in general of eXplainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI), and elaborate on the extent to which these apply—or need to be adapted—to the specific characteristics of music consumption and recommendation. Then, we show how explainability components can be integrated within a MRS and in what form explanations can be provided. Since the evaluation of explanation quality is decoupled from pure accuracy‐based evaluation criteria, we also discuss requirements and strategies for evaluating explanations of music recommendations. Finally, we describe the current challenges for introducing explainability within a large‐scale industrial MRS and provide research perspectives.
Van der Waals Template‐Assisted Low‐Temperature Epitaxial Growth of 2D Atomic Crystals
Authors: Niu Lijuan , Li Yuyin , Zhao Mei , Liu Zhenjing , Zhang Mengjia , Ding Changchun , Dou Zhenjun , She Yihong , Zhang Kenan , Luo Zhengtang , Zhang Lijie , Wang Shun
Published: June 2022

To date, the synthesis of high‐quality 2D crystals using vapor deposition methods usually requires high temperature, hindering the integration of 2D materials with Si circuits and exacerbating energy consumption. Exploring low‐temperature growth strategies and understanding synthesis mechanism are critical for the practical application of 2D materials. Herein, a van der Waals (vdW) template‐assisted growth of 2D crystals (including PbI2, CdI2, BiI3, CuI, Sb2Te3,and Bi2Se3) is reported, the growth temperature decreases by maximum 35% compared with traditional vapor deposition. The low‐temperature 2D growth process resulting from the low surface diffusion barrier of precursors on vdW surfaces is proposed, confirmed by the density functional theory and molecular dynamics calculations. Particularly, the grown 2D crystals can be peeled off from vdW templates easily and transferred to arbitrary substrates for functional applications and the exfoliated vdW templates can be reused for another round of growth. Although the growth temperature is reduced greatly, the excellent photoelectric performance of grown 2D crystals is demonstrated, benefitting from high crystalline quality. These findings provide a universal method for the low‐temperature synthesis of high‐crystallinity 2D materials toward applications in flexible electronics.
A Novel Multiple‐Ring Aromatic Spacer Based 2D Ruddlesden–Popper CsPbI3Solar Cell with Record Efficiency Beyond 16%
Authors: Yao Huanhuan , Li Zhizai , Shi Chang , Xu Youkui , Wang Qian , Li ZhenHua , Peng Guoqiang , Lei Yutian , Wang Haoxu , Ci Zhipeng , Jin Zhiwen
Published: June 2022

Two‐dimensional (2D) Ruddlesden–Popper (RP) CsPbI3perovskite possesses superior phase stability by introducing steric hindrance. However, due to the quantum and dielectric confinement effect, 2D structures usually exhibit large exciton binding energy, and the charge tunneling barrier across the organic interlayer is difficult to eliminate, resulting in poor charge transport and performance. Here, a multiple‐ring aromatic ammonium, 1‐naphthylamine (1‐NA) spacer is developed for 2D RP CsPbI3perovskite solar cell (PSC). Theoretical simulations and experimental characterizations demonstrate that the 2D RP CsPbI3perovskite using 1‐NA spacer with extended π‐conjugation lengths reduces the exciton binding energy and facilitates the efficient separation of excitons. In addition, its cations have a significant contribution to the conduction band, which can reduce the bandgap, promote electronic coupling between organic and inorganic layers, and improve interlayer charge transport. Importantly, the strong π–π conjugation of 1‐NA spacer can enhance intermolecular interactions and hydrogen bonding, and prepare high‐quality films with preferred vertical orientation, resulting in lower defect density, and directional charge transport. As a result, the (1‐NA)2(Cs)3Pb4I13PSC exhibits a record 16.62% performance with enhanced stability. This work provides an efficient approach to improve charge transport and device performance by developing multiple‐ring aromatic spacers.
Greenificated Molecularly Imprinted Materials for Advanced Applications
Authors: Ostovan Abbas , Arabi Maryam , Wang Yunqing , Li Jinhua , Li Bowei , Wang Xiaoyan , Chen Lingxin
Published: June 2022

Molecular imprinting technology (MIT) produces artificial binding sites with precise complementarity to substrates and thereby is capable of exquisite molecular recognition. Over five decades of evolution, it is predicted that the resulting host imprinted materials will overtake natural receptors for research and application purposes, but in practice, this has not yet been realized due to the unsustainability of their life cycles (i.e., precursors, creation, use, recycling, and end‐of‐life). To address this issue, greenificated molecularly imprinted polymers (GMIPs) are a new class of plastic antibodies that have approached sustainability by following one or more of the greenification principles, while also demonstrating more far‐reaching applications compared to their natural counterparts. In this review, the most recent developments in the delicate design and advanced application of GMIPs in six fast‐growing and emerging fields are surveyed, namely biomedicine/therapy, catalysis, energy harvesting/storage, nanoparticle detection, gas sensing/adsorption, and environmental remediation. In addition, their distinct features are highlighted, and the optimal means to utilize these features for attaining incredibly far‐reaching applications are discussed. Importantly, the obscure technical challenges of the greenificated MIT are revealed, and conceivable solutions are offered. Lastly, several perspectives on future research directions are proposed.
Advances in Biodegradable Electronic Skin: Material Progress and Recent Applications in Sensing, Robotics, and Human–Machine Interfaces
Authors: Zarei Mohammad , Lee Giwon , Lee Seung Goo , Cho Kilwon
Published: June 2022

The rapid growth of the electronics industry and proliferation of electronic materials and telecommunications technologies has led to the release of a massive amount of untreated electronic waste (e‐waste) into the environment. Consequently, catastrophic environmental damage at the microbiome level and serious human health diseases threaten the natural fate of the planet. Currently, the demand for wearable electronics for applications in personalized medicine, electronic skins (e‐skins), and health monitoring is substantial and growing. Therefore, “green” characteristics such as biodegradability, self‐healing, and biocompatibility ensure the future application of wearable electronics and e‐skins in biomedical engineering and bioanalytical sciences. Leveraging the biodegradability, sustainability, and biocompatibility of natural materials will dramatically influence the fabrication of environmentally friendly e‐skins and wearable electronics. Here, the molecular and structural characteristics of biological skins and artificial e‐skins are discussed. The focus then turns to the biodegradable materials, including natural and synthetic‐polymer‐based materials, and their recent applications in the development of biodegradable e‐skin in wearable sensors, robotics, and human–machine interfaces (HMIs). Finally, the main challenges and outlook regarding the preparation and application of biodegradable e‐skins are critically discussed in a near‐future scenario, which is expected to lead to the next generation of biodegradable e‐skins.
High Thermal Conductivity 2D Materials: From Theory and Engineering to Applications
Authors: Wu Fan , Tian He , Shen Yang , Zhu Zheng‐Qiang , Liu Yanming , Hirtz Thomas , Wu Rui , Gou Guangyang , Qiao Yancong , Yang Yi , Xing Chao‐Yang , Zhang Gang , Ren Tian‐Ling
Published: June 2022

Transistors are getting close to their physical limitation, and complex chip design technologies have made the hotspot problem more serious. Graphene and hBN, as representative 2D semi‐metal and dielectric materials, possess excellent thermal conductivities. Intrinsic 2D materials, 2D film materials, and 2D composite materials have been investigated, showing great potential for next‐generation thermal‐management materials. There are products that have already been commercialized based on graphene and hBN, but many companies seem to be sitting on the fence, and the obstacles toward implementation of these materials need to be specified. Here, high thermal conductivity 2D materials from theory and engineering to applications are reviewed, aiming to provide a comprehensive summary of the current state of the art of this field in order to give an overview and future prospects in application, manufacturing, and commercialization. From the theoretical perspective, the impact factors and development path of 2D materials for thermal dissipation and the engineering aspect of structural design are presented. The prospects and challenges are also tackled, expressing an objective view about future opportunities to build 2D‐based heat‐dissipation systems.
Ferroelectric BaTiO3 Based Multi‐Effects Coupled Materials and Devices
Authors: Qian Weiqi , Wu Heting , Yang Ya
Published: June 2022

Ferroelectric barium titanate (BaTiO3) with an intrinsic spontaneous polarization performs multiple remarkable properties. Recently, ferroelectric BaTiO3 based materials and devices are fabricated in multi‐effects coupled systems, such as self‐powered ultrasensitive sensing, energy harvesting, and electrochemical applications, which have gained growing interest with worldwide increasing researches. This review places a focus on current achievements in ferroelectric BaTiO3 based multi‐effects coupled materials and devices for capacitors, nanogenerators, sensors, electrochemistry, and other applications. First, the structure–activity relationship of BaTiO3 materials including various crystal structures and different morphologies is reported. It is interesting that multi‐effects coupled electronic devices and systems combining multiple properties have attached significant effort to realize enhanced performance contrasted to device applications with single effect. Finally, a brief understanding of opportunities and challenges for ferroelectric BaTiO3 based multi‐effects coupled materials and devices is given. The intention of this review is to encourage more effort in this nontoxic intelligent material, and impel more attention in pushing progress of this field in the future.
X‐ray Detectors With Ultrahigh Sensitivity Employing High Performance Transistors Based on a Fully Organic Small Molecule Semiconductor/Polymer Blend Active Layer
Authors: Tamayo Adrián , Fratelli Ilaria , Ciavatti Andrea , Martínez‐Domingo Carme , Branchini Paolo , Colantoni Elisabetta , De Rosa Stefania , Tortora Luca , Contillo Adriano , Santiago Raul , Bromley Stefan T. , Fraboni Beatrice , Mas‐Torrent Marta , Basiricò Laura
Published: June 2022

The implementation of organic semiconductor (OSC) materials in X‐ray detectors provides exciting new opportunities for developing a new generation of biocompatible devices with high potential for the fabrication of sensitive and low‐cost X‐ray imaging systems. Here, the fabrication of high performance organic field‐effect transistors (OFETs) based on blends of 1,4,8,11‐tetramethyl‐6,13‐triethylsilylethynyl pentacene (TMTES) with polystyrene is reported. The films are printed employing a low cost and high‐throughput deposition technique. The devices exhibit excellent electrical characteristics with a high mobility and low density of hole traps, which is ascribed to the favorable herringbone packing (different from most pentacene derivatives) and the vertical phase separation in the blend films. As a consequence, an exceptional high sensitivity of (4.10 ± 0.05) × 1010 µC Gy–1cm–3 for X‐ray detection is achieved, which is the highest reported so far for a direct X‐ray detector based on a tissue equivalent full organic active layer, and is higher than most perovskite film‐based X‐ray detectors. As a proof of concept to demonstrate the high potential of these devices, an X‐ray image with sub‐millimeter pixel size is recorded employing a 4‐pixel array. This work highlights the potential exploitation of high performance OFETs for future innovative large‐area and highly sensitive X‐ray detectors for medical dosimetry and diagnostic applications.
Beware the “loneliness gap”? Examining emerging inequalities and long‐term risks of loneliness and isolation emerging from COVID‐19
Authors: Patulny Roger , Bower Marlee
Published: June 2022

Emerging evidence suggests COVID lockdowns have not only increased the social problem of loneliness but widened the ‘loneliness gap’ between the most and least lonely people. Qualitative investigation can reveal why this gap might have increased, for whom, and whether the loneliness gap will remain long term. Using multi‐wave qualitative survey data conducted during Australia’s 2020 lockdown period and beyond, we examine personal experiences of interaction transitioning out of lockdown. We find substantial and uneven impacts of COVID lasting well beyond lockdown. Participants reported heightened loneliness attributable to: physical isolation, health anxieties, ceased activities, reduced connection quality, and poor motivation. COVID also created new interactive difficulties for singles, those with physical and mental disabilities, their carers, and those with low social capital. There was also reported ‘pruning’ of social networks (i.e. reduced bridging, increased bonding social capital), and evidence that increased digital interaction did not substitute for lost physical contact. Younger people also experienced isolating COVID‐induced life disruptions (e.g. travel, university attendance etc). Findings suggest COVID has increased potential long‐term inequalities in loneliness, highlight the post COVID risks faced by vulnerable groups, and suggest caution in advocating digital solutions as a panacea for diminished physical interaction in the post‐pandemic world.
Radiotherapy‐Induced Cleavage of Quaternary Ammonium Groups Activates Prodrugs in Tumors
Authors: Guo Zhibin , Hong Hanyu , Zheng Yuedan , Wang Ziyang , Ding Zexuan , Fu Qunfeng , Liu Zhibo
Published: June 2022

Cleavage chemistry offers a new chance to activate chemotherapeutic prodrugs in a tumor‐selective manner, yet developing spatiotemporally controllable cleavage chemistry with deep tissue penetration is still a great challenge. Herein, we present a novel radiotherapy‐triggered cleavage chemistry that enables controlled drug release in tumors. Quaternary ammonium groups are identified as masking groups that can be efficiently removed by hydrated electrons (e−aq) from water radiolysis. The subsequently released tertiary amines can be anti‐cancer toxins or readily release functional molecules via 1,6‐elimination. This radiotherapy‐induced cleavage works successfully in living cells and tumor‐bearing mice, showing remarkable treatment efficacy when the mice are given carfilzomib prodrug and radiotherapy. This strategy provides a new perspective for combinational radiochemotherapy, which is the first‐line treatment for over 50 % of cancer patients.
Metal–Organic Frameworks with Low‐Valent Metal Nodes
Authors: Sikma R. Eric , Balto Krista P. , Figueroa Joshua S. , Cohen Seth M.
Published: June 2022

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are crystalline, 2‐ and 3‐dimensional coordination polymers formed by bonding interactions between metals and multitopic organic ligands. These are typically formed using hard Lewis basic organic ligands with high oxidation state metal ions. The use of low‐valent metals as structural elements in MOFs is far less common, despite the widespread use of such metals for catalysis, luminescence, and other applications. This Minireview focuses on recent advances in the field of low‐valent MOFs and offers a perspective on the future development of these materials.
Asymmetric Living Supramolecular Polymerization: Precise Fabrication of One‐Handed Helical Supramolecular Polymers
Authors: Wang Chao , Xu Lei , Zhou Li , Liu Na , Wu Zong‐Quan
Published: June 2022

Programming the organization of semiconducting polymers to form well‐defined nanoarchitectures is desirable for fabricating functional materials. In this work, semiconducting copolymers, poly(cholesterol allene)‐b‐poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (PCA‐b‐P3HT) containing helical PCA and poly(alkoxy allene)‐b‐poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (PAA‐b‐P3HT) containing achiral PAA segments, were prepared. Crystallization of P3HT and helicity of PCA drove PCA‐b‐P3HT self‐assemble into spherical nanoparticles that gradually transformed into one‐handed helical nanofibers. The chirality of PCA was transferred to the supramolecular architectures, induced high optical activity in P3HT. Interestingly, the chiral seed micelles of PCA‐b‐P3HT induced asymmetric copolymerization of achiral PAA‐b‐P3HT, which led to helical supramolecular block copolymers with defined helicity and controlled length. Remarkably, the supramolecular copolymers showed white‐light emission and circularly polarized luminescence.
A Plurizyme with Transaminase and Hydrolase Activity Catalyzes Cascade Reactions
Authors: Roda Sergi , Fernandez‐Lopez Laura , Benedens Marius , Bollinger Alexander , Thies Stephan , Schumacher Julia , Coscolín Cristina , Kazemi Masoud , Santiago Gerard , Gertzen Christoph G. W. , Gonzalez‐Alfonso Jose L. , Plou Francisco J. , Jaeger Karl‐Erich , Smits Sander H. J. , Ferrer Manuel , Guallar Víctor
Published: June 2022

Engineering dual‐function single polypeptide catalysts with two abiotic or biotic catalytic entities (or combinations of both) supporting cascade reactions is becoming an important area of enzyme engineering and catalysis. Herein we present the development of a PluriZyme, TR2E2, with efficient native transaminase (kcat: 69.49±1.77 min−1) and artificial esterase (kcat: 3908–0.41 min−1) activities integrated into a single scaffold, and evaluate its utility in a cascade reaction. TR2E2 (pHopt: 8.0–9.5; Topt: 60–65 °C) efficiently converts methyl 3‐oxo‐4‐(2,4,5‐trifluorophenyl)butanoate into 3‐(R)‐amino‐4‐(2,4,5‐trifluorophenyl)butanoic acid, a crucial intermediate for the synthesis of antidiabetic drugs. The reaction proceeds through the conversion of the β‐keto ester into the β‐keto acid at the hydrolytic site and subsequently into the β‐amino acid (e.e. >99 %) at the transaminase site. The catalytic power of the TR2E2 PluriZyme was proven with a set of β‐keto esters, demonstrating the potential of such designs to address bioinspired cascade reactions.
Structure elucidation, DNA interaction, potential anticancer, molecular docking activities, and γ‐ray irradiation studies on novel mono‐ and binuclear Fe (II), Ni (II), Co (II), and Hg (II) Schiff base complexes
Authors: El-Boraey Hanaa A. , Abdel‐Qader Aya , Hussien Mostafa A.
Published: June 2022

Bis Schiff base N,N–((1E,2E)‐ethane 1,2diylidene)bis(azanylylidene)di(isonicotinohydrazide) ligand L was reacted with Fe (III), Ni (II), Co (II), and Hg (II) chlorides to yield complexes (1–6). The structure of the synthesized ligand and metal complexes was well established by various spectroscopic techniques (Fourier‐transform infrared [FT‐IR], UV–Vis., and 1H NMR), mass spectrometry, elemental analysis (CHN) and physical studies (thermogravimetric analysis [TGA]/first derivative thermogravimetric analysis [DTG], powder X‐ray diffraction, molar conductance, and magnetic moment). Solid powder samples of the binuclear complexes (3 and 6) were irradiated at two different irradiation doses (150 and 200 kGy) to yield complexes (3F and 3F*) and (6F and 6F*), respectively. For the γ‐irradiated samples, FT‐IR, UV–Vis., and physical studies (TGA/DTG, X‐ray diffraction, molar conductance, and magnetic moment) were performed using the same methods as for the as‐prepared complexes. In addition, calf thymus ct‐DNA binding results monitored by agarose gel electrophoretic method indicated that the as‐prepared binuclear [Hg2LCl4(OH)2] complex (6) and its γ‐irradiated [Hg2LCl4(OH)2] complex (6F) have the ability to cleave ct‐DNA at a concentration of 30 and 70 μg/ml, respectively. Inhibitory activity against hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG‐2) and breast carcinoma cells (MCF‐7) of ligand and as‐prepared complexes (3, 6, and 6F) was evaluated. The results revealed that metal complexes exhibited enhanced activity in comparison to the free ligand, and the as‐prepared complex (6) shows an IC50 value of 5.7 ± 0.2 and 8.72 ± 0.6 μg/ml for the two cell lines, respectively. Docking process for the ligand and complexes (3) and (6) with liver cancer protein (ID: 4FM9) and breast cancer protein (ID: 1H7K) has been evaluated.
Synthesis and characterization of Al (III)‐Zn (II) heterometallic complex and the application in ring‐opening polymerization of cyclohexene oxide
Authors: Mu Debao , Feng Chunping , Li Wenyi , Yuan Dan , Yao Yingming
Published: June 2022

Four aluminum, zinc, and aluminum/zinc heterometallic complexes 1–4 stabilized by o‐phenylenediamine bridged poly (phenolato) ligands were synthesized and characterized. It was found that the reaction sequence has significant influence on the formation of the Al‐Zn heterometallic complex AlZnL1Me (4), which was prepared through successive complexation of poly (phenol) with ZnEt2 and AlMe3. The catalytic behaviors of complexes 1–4 for the ring‐opening polymerization of cyclohexene oxide (CHO) were investigated, and the heterometallic complex 4 showed significantly enhanced activity (TOF up to 410 min−1). Kinetic study was conducted; the activation energy (Ea) for formation of PCHO using 4 was determined to be 58.0 ± 6.5 kJ mol−1.