bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring mortality patterns across territorial areas in Italy
Authors: Sara Miccoli  , Marco Battaglini  , Francesca Licari  , Marco Marsili  , Cecilia Reynaud
Published: February 2025

Mortality differentials across rural-urban gradients have long been of interest due to their implications for public health policies. Traditionally, rural areas were believed to have lower mortality thanks to healthier lifestyles and environmental factors. Recent trends suggest a narrowing gap, raising questions about the factors driving these disparities. The differences in mortality rates between territories depend on the different geographical characteristics, and this underscores the need of an analysis at a more detailed territorial level.
This study aims to investigate mortality disparities and patterns across central and peripheral gradients and territorial areas in Italy, using the National Strategy for Inner Areas (SNAI) classification. We seek to understand how mortality rates vary between Inner and Central settings, focusing on individuals aged 60 and older. Our analysis includes standardized mortality rates and life expectancy at age 60, examined through spatial analysis techniques, such as Moran's Index and Local Indicators of Spatial Association (LISA). Additionally, we analyse mortality by major causes of death to identify the most significant contributors to the disparities.
The findings reveal considerable heterogeneity in mortality rates, with a notable U-shaped pattern indicating higher survival in Ultra-peripheral areas. While overall improvements in mortality levels are observed in recent years, these are less pronounced in the South. The reduction in mortality from circulatory system diseases and cancers contributes significantly to the improvements in both Poles and Inner Areas. However, higher mortality from respiratory and nervous system diseases is more prevalent in Inner Areas, especially in Ultra-peripheral municipalities.
By outlining mortality differentials and patterns in Italy, this study provides valuable insights for informing targeted health policies aimed at reducing disparities and improving overall public health outcomes for the older population
Exploring natural experiments: gender of offspring and the challenges of the stopping rules
Authors: Salinari Giambattista , Carboni Gianni , Zarulli Virginia
Published: February 2025

The sex of children has frequently been used in the field of social sciences to conduct natural experiments. The key hypothesis behind this methodology is that the sex of the firstborn (or the first k births) is an exogenous variable, meaning it is not influenced by family characteristics observed before the birth of the children. Recent analyses have questioned the supposed exogeneity of the sex of children, proposing that stress experienced during pregnancy results in higher male embryo mortality, thereby leading to a higher probability of female births. This hypothesis casts doubt on the results reached by studies that have used the sex of children to conduct natural experiments. However, the analyses supporting this hypothesis have not properly considered the problems arising from stopping rules, specifically the tendency of some families to continue having children until a child of the desired sex is born. In this work, we show, using an indirect approach, that if stopping rules are properly taken into account, the sex of offspring is not associated to parental stress.
Increase response rate in Italian surveys: a reward model proposal
Authors: Camisasca Michele , Falcone Fabio , Gigliuto Livio , Sola Giuseppina
Published: February 2025

The proliferation of new sources of information, varying in reliability, reinforces the view that society as a whole can be observed, described and quantified through an analysis of the data generated and stored in the Internet of Things (IoT). The automatic gathering of data from our actions, purchases and online browsing habits provides a direct and automated method of data collection, offering insights into our behaviour and habits.
In this context, private research institutes and national statistical offices (NSOs) must develop strategies to increase direct respondent participation and reduce the occurrence of non-response. Indeed, the use of monetary incentives is not always sufficient, and further measures must therefore be considered. The paper begins with an analysis of legal provisions concerning mandatory participation and goes on to propose a new approach that transforms the experience of participating in surveys from a “duty” to be fulfilled to a “benefit” to be enjoyed. This proposal would shift from a punitive approach involving monetary sanctions to a purely administrative approach based on verifying statistical compliance and issuing a specific attestation document. The possession of this document would then determine eligibility for rewards and/or benefits.
Improvising Theatrical Jazz in a Queer Space: Aishah Rahman's Unfinished Women Cry in No Man's Land While a Bird Dies in a Gilded Cage
Authors: Altan Ege
Published: February 2025

Omi Osun Joni L. Jones finds the relations between queerness and jazz in the concept of theatrical jazz in Theatrical Jazz: Performance, Àṣẹ, and the Power of the Present Moment. By undoing the conventional way of thinking about queerness, Jones unites queerness and jazz in the concept of theatrical jazz. She writes, “[t]he jazz aesthetic in theatre is the spatial, aural, linguistic embodiment of queer, the expression of a self-naming that is consciously and insurgently liminal, unfixed.” Liminality is a key concept in relation to queerness, as she expresses that “liminality is the space of possibility in which people are not bound to the social structures, but are given freedom to conceive, to imagine, to invent, to make.” Liminality becomes “[…] the space of improvisation – invention within a prescribed structure, the making of something that did not exist before.” Aishah Rahman’s Unfinished Women Cry in No Man’s Land While a Bird Dies in a Gilded Cage (1977) is a very interesting play to trace the trajectory of theatrical jazz because it uses theatrical jazz to create its own language in a unique form. This article will show that Rahman situates her play in the context of theatrical jazz, which creates a queer time and space, whereby she explores freedom in the form.
Feminism and Time in Recent Speculative Fiction
Authors: Bell Elisabeth
Published: February 2025

This paper examines the possibility of a meaningful “feminist” science fiction, partly in response to popular media descriptions of Naomi Alderman’s The Power as a feminist text. It contends that feminists must in some way support the possibility of difference from domination and violence. Reading with feminist ethicists, Denise Ferreira da Silva and Karen Barad, and considering the very linear and limiting time of The Power, the paper questions whether opposition to dominating power might also require an experience of time and being in which the self is not clearly separable from all other(s), in which non-domination and mutual responsibilities proliferate in a “hauntology” that differs from both linear and static conceptions of time. As an alternative to The Power, Carmen Maria Machado’s collection of stories, Her Body and Other Parties, serves as a compelling example of the feminist possibilities of haunted time.
The Tale of The Magic Mountain in the Analysis of Paul Ricoeur
Authors: Dimitrov Chavdar
Published: February 2025

This paper is an attempt to explain the role of fictional configuration in a specific philosophical approach. The possibility is opened by the topic of time, common to the later prose of Thomas Mann and the narrative theory of Paul Ricoeur. After an introduction to The Magic Mountain, the problematic of temporality is delineated in terms of tenses and phenomenology of fictive reality (Steven Crowell). The ongoing focus is on the exchange of perspectives on the subject-matter, including Mann’s method of the ‘leitmotiv’ and Ricoeur’s project on ontology of fiction. The inquiry invites contributions from scholars in the fields of tropology (Harry Jansen) and analysis of literature (William Dowling). Most of all the hermeneutically upgraded narratology of Mark Currie offers a critical view on the themes of narrative consciousness and referentiality. As a result of the exposition, the entanglement of the concept of configuration with the problem of tales about time (Ricoeur) is clarified.
Impacto Da Fisioterapia Domiciliar Na Qualidade De Vida De Idosos Em Home Care
Authors: Langowski Débora Silvério , Batista Wagner Henrique Santos , Medeiros Irlan Miranda de Morais , Silva Maria Eduarda da , Machado Isadora Walber , Alves Larissa , Almeida Briana Matos de , Santos Jaqueline Barreto Côrtes dos , Silva Wellinton da Silva e , Mesquita José Gabriel de Souza , Ramos Magno Oliveira
Published: February 2025

Population aging has driven the search for strategies to promote quality of life for the elderly, especially those in home care. This study aimed to analyze the impact of home physiotherapy on the quality of life of elderly people in home care. This is an integrative literature review, conducted using databases such as PubMed, ScienceDirect and Scopus, using the PRISMA strategy. The studies analyzed show that home physiotherapy helps to improve mobility, reduce pain, increase functional independence and provide emotional support. Randomized clinical trials demonstrate its effectiveness in the rehabilitation of elderly people with different clinical conditions, promoting greater autonomy and quality of life. In addition, home physiotherapy has been shown to be viable and accepted by patients, and is essential for preventing complications associated with immobility. We conclude that this approach is essential for the well-being of the elderly and should be expanded to ensure more active and healthy ageing.
A Importância da Equipe Multiprofissional na Promoção da Saúde Coletiva: Integração e Impactos no Cuidado
Authors: Souza Amanda Duarte de , Ribeiro Gese Teixeira , Araujo Beatriz Cristina da Silva , Santiago Áthila Silveira , Schmidt Guilherme Rufatto , Tavernard Diego da Silva Macedo , Fabar Bruna da Silva , Albuquerque Fernanda de Queiroz , Dias Maiara dos Santos Sena , Barbosa Renan Bruno
Published: February 2025

This study aims to analyze the importance of multidisciplinary teams in promoting public health, highlighting their impact on care quality, health indicators, and user satisfaction. A narrative literature review was conducted, with a bibliographic search in PubMed, SciELO, Web of Science, and Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS), using cross-referenced terms in Portuguese and English with Boolean operators to refine the results. The results show that the integration of multidisciplinary teams improves care coordination, promotes a more comprehensive approach, and reduces adverse events. However, challenges such as resistance to change and unclear professional roles still limit the sustainability of these practices. The analysis emphasizes the need for strategies that strengthen communication and interprofessional education, as well as public policies that provide adequate support for team integration. It is concluded that investing in collaborative practices and strengthening multidisciplinary teams is essential for a more efficient, humanized, and patient-centered healthcare system.
Assessment of the Effect of Business Innovation on Performance of Small and Medium Enterprises Supermarkets in Laikipia County, Kenya.
Authors: Kibet Christine Chepkoech , Rintari Nancy , Moguche Abel
Published: February 2025

Supermarkets form a significant component of retail, and therefore their growth is paramount. However, the performance of Kenyan supermarkets has experienced low performance concerns. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of business innovation on performance of SMEs Supermarkets in Laikipia County. A descriptive survey research design was adopted and data was collected using questionnaires. The study target population was 200 respondents, from 9 supermarkets in Laikipia County. Slovin’s sampling formula was used to obtain 133 study population comprising supervisors and operation staff, who were selected using simple random method. Pre-testing of 10% of the sampled population was conducted in Magunas and Sayen supermarket in Meru County. Data was collected, sorted and coded, using SPSS software. Regression analysis used to test the hypotheses. Data was presented using in tables and explanations.  Descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, and mean were used. The findings on performance revealed that 112(86%) respondents agreed on a mean of 4.1 that there was less turn-around time taken to replace stock on the shelves of the supermarket. However, 105(81%) disagreed on a mean of 2.4 that salaries of staff were paid on time. The study also established that business innovation had a 41% percent variation in performance. The study concluded that there was still resistance by the management to fully incorporate innovation and collaborate the operations of the supermarket effectively. Additionally, supermarkets relied on walk-in customers instead of vigorously conducting e-marketing campaigns to improve sales. Therefore, the management should undergo training on relevance of various business innovations and models with a view of incorporating them in the management of the supermarket. The staff should also be encouraged to market the supermarket’s products using online platforms.
IMPROVING THE COMMUNITY ECONOMY THROUGH TECHNOLOGY OF PROCESSING MORINGA LEAVES
Authors: Baihaqi  , Rianse Muhammad Iqbal Kusumabaka , Sri Rejeki  , Mariani L  , RH Fitri Faradilla  , Ilian Elvira  , Aprita Ika Rezvani , Sri Agustina
Published: February 2025

Improving community welfare is the main focus of community service programs, one of which is through the use of Moringa oleifera leaves which are rich in nutrients and have high economic potential. This research was conducted in Labulo Village, Wakorumba District, North Buton Regency, where the majority of the population depends on the agricultural sector. Even though the potential of Moringa leaves is great, public knowledge about its processing is still limited. Therefore, counseling and training regarding Moringa leaf processing technology is very important. This activity aims to provide understanding and skills to the public in processing Moringa leaves into high-value products, such as Moringa leaf powder and Moringa tea. The methods used include material preparation, outreach, practical training, as well as introduction to marketing and product packaging aspects. The evaluation results showed an increase in community knowledge from 45% in the pre-test to 85% in the post-test, and 85% of participants felt confident to continue processing independently. This activity not only has a positive impact on increasing knowledge and skills but also opens up new business opportunities that can increase people's income and welfare. With this program, it is hoped that the community can utilize the potential of the Moringa plant optimally and make it a sustainable source of income. The sustainability of this program needs to be supported by mentoring and monitoring activities to ensure further business development.
Défis d’insertion professionnelle spécifiques à l’acculturation d’enseignant⋅e⋅s immigrant⋅e⋅s au Québec
Authors: Provencher Ariane
Published: February 2025

Les enseignant⋅e⋅s immigrant⋅e⋅s sont une richesse pour les sociétés d’accueil en raison de leur biculturalité (Niyubahwe et coll., 2019). Pourtant, ces membres de la profession enseignante rencontrent nombre d’obstacles qui peuvent compromettre leur projet migratoire (Duchesne, 2017). L’article porte sur les difficultés d’acculturation en période d’insertion professionnelle au Québec. L’analyse est soutenue par les concepts de parcours migratoire (Legault et Fronteau, 2008), d’acculturation (Berry, 2005) et d’insertion professionnelle en enseignement (Mukamurera et coll., 2013). La discussion mène à une adaptation du modèle d’insertion professionnelle tenant compte de la phase postmigratoire et à des pistes de réflexion liées aux besoins des enseignant⋅e⋅s immigrant⋅e⋅s.
Le camp musical extra-ordinaire. Facteurs environnementaux et perceptions des parents, des jeunes et des facilitateurs
Authors: Després Jean-Philippe , Julien-Gauthier Francine , Bédard-Bruyère Flavie , Mathieu Marie-Claude
Published: February 2025

À l’été 2020, 25 jeunes âgés de 8 à 17 ans vivant avec une déficience intellectuelle ou physique ont participé au « Camp musical extra-ordinaire ». Il s’agit d’un projet de recherche étudiant l’impact d’un programme basé sur une approche informelle d’apprentissage de la musique à distance. Une approche qualitative de type participative a été utilisée. Les résultats montrent que, selon le point de vue des participants, les activités du Camp musical extra-ordinaire ont favorisé l’accès des jeunes à des activités de loisir, malgré la présence de divers obstacles. Ce faisant, le Camp musical a permis aux jeunes de faire preuve d’initiative, de développer leur autodétermination, d’exprimer leur créativité et de vivre des réussites.
Entre réformes et crise sanitaire : les lycéen⋅ne⋅s mis⋅es à l’épreuve de l’orientation
Authors: Daverne-Bailly Carole , Grenier Véronique , Li Yong
Published: February 2025

Dans le contexte français de réformes du processus d’orientation du lycée vers l’enseignement supérieur, couplé à une crise sanitaire de la Covid-19, il convient de porter une attention particulière aux jeunes, à leurs vécus et à leurs expériences. Reprenant une démarche compréhensive, cet article documente ces expériences « sur le vif » à travers les témoignages de lycéen⋅ne⋅s et, à postériori, d’étudiant⋅e⋅s. Il montre que la crise sanitaire est venue renforcer une expérience déjà malmenée par les politiques éducatives récentes et un accompagnement à l’orientation jugé inadapté, contraignant ces jeunes à rechercher un équilibre entre subjectivation et stratégie.
Magnetotactic Bacteria Optimally Navigate Natural Pore Networks
Authors: Petroff Alexander P , Kelin Vladislav , Radchenko-Hannafin Nina
Published: February 2025

Magnetotactic bacteria swim along geomagnetic field lines to navigate the pore spaces of water-saturated sediment. To understand the physical basis for efficient navigation in confined geometries, we observe the motion of Multicellular Magnetotactic Bacteria through an artificial pore space under an applied magnetic field. Magnetotaxis is fastest when bacteria swim a distance that is of order the pore size in the time required to align with the applied field. A model—in which bacteria deterministically align with the magnetic field and randomly scatter off boundaries—predicts the observed non-monotonic relationship between the drift velocity and applied magnetic field and the value of the maximum drift velocity. A comparison of diverse magnetotactic bacteria shows that the magnetic moments, swimming speeds, and hydrodynamic mobilities of different species covary such that the average speed of magnetotaxis for each species is close to optimal for its natural environment.
Advances and insights for DKK3 in non-cancerous diseases: a systematic review
Authors: Sun Yao , Xiao Zengli , Yang Shuguang , Hao Chenxiao , Zhao Huiying , An Youzhong
Published: February 2025

This review delves into the role of Dickkopf-3 (DKK3), a secreted glycoprotein and member of the Dickkopf family, in non-malignant diseases. DKK3 is particularly known for its regulatory effects on the Wnt signaling pathway, a critical mediator in various biological processes including cell proliferation, differentiation, and migration. Our review highlights DKK3’s influence in disorders of the cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, and muscular systems, where it contributes to disease progression by modulating these key biological processes. As an emerging biomarker, DKK3’s levels have been found to correlate with various disease states, underscoring its potential diagnostic and therapeutic implications.
A Survey on Binary Tree-Based Approaches for Data Transmission in Mobile Ad Hoc Networks
Authors: Abdullah Cheman Mohammed , Ibrahim Ibrahim Mahmood
Published: February 2025

A thorough analysis of the current binary tree-based data distribution techniques in MANETs is the goal of this paper. MANET communication is highly dynamic, necessitating effective data transmission methods to improve network stability while also saving energy. Binary tree topologies work in tandem with routing and data aggregation to improve scalability, reduce latency, and increase energy economy. The paper investigates several binary tree algorithms that are appropriate for data and security structures, as well as routing techniques. Similar to previous MANETs, the network has three main issues: security threats, energy constraints, and mobility issues. Key features of modern algorithms are briefly discussed in the study, along with the benefits and drawbacks of tree-based systems. The study itself outlines the goals and directions for further investigation just to find the best network throughputs while staying within the constraints of dynamism's limited computing and energy resources.
Gender Disparities in Agricultural Work Participation in West Bengal, India
Authors: Maji Prity , Bhattacharyya Banjul , Saha Mriganka , Ghosh Suprakash , Chakraborty Shaon , Kashyap Vivek , Majumder Anurup
Published: February 2025

This study examines gender disparities in agricultural work participation across West Bengal from the 1960s to 2011, revealing consistently higher male engagement with significant regional variations. Districts such as Purulia, Hooghly, Bardhaman, and Bankura recorded higher female participation, whereas urbanized areas like Howrah, Nadia, and 24-Parganas showed lower involvement. The Work Participation Rate (WPR) in agriculture peaked in the 1980s but declined thereafter, reflecting economic diversification and a shift toward non-agricultural livelihoods. Despite constituting a substantial share of the agricultural workforce—estimated at 38–45.3% in developing countries—women often remain overlooked contributors, primarily engaged as unpaid or low-wage workers without formal recognition. Structural barriers, including limited land ownership and exclusion from decision-making roles, continue to reinforce gender inequities. While advancements in science and technology have transformed agriculture, they have failed to address the persistent marginalization of women in the sector. In India, agriculture continues to absorb female labour but does not formally acknowledge them as hired or employed workers. Addressing these systemic challenges is crucial for achieving gender equity and sustainable development. The findings underscore the urgent need for policy interventions that enhance women’s access to resources, recognize them as farmers, and ensure their equitable inclusion in agricultural growth.
Socio-Economic, Communication and Psychological Characteristics of Rural Women from Migrant Households in Uttarakhand, India
Authors: Pandey Kanika , Arya Neha , Singh Smriti
Published: February 2025

Aim: Majority of the rural population in the hills either survives on subsistence agriculture or migrates for better livelihood opportunities.  
Background: The Uttarakhand state has witnessed significant changes in its demographic structure with slow decadal growth of population in the hilly regions during the period 2001-2011. The high incidence of male out-migration has altered the general demographics and socio-cultural framework of the state, resulting in various changes in the lives of rural women. Rural women face greater vulnerability and various problems due to male out-migration and limited livelihood opportunities. This study attempted to find socio-economic, communication and psychological characteristics of rural women from migrant households.
Study Design: The descriptive research design was used to meet the objective of the study.
Methodology: The study was purposively carried out in Almora district of Uttarakhand. Out of the total 11 blocks, one block i.e. Dwarahat was selected randomly. Two villages viz. Talli Mirai and Kaphara were selected randomly and rural women (18-55 years) were choosen. With help of census method 112 respondents were studied. 
Results: The findings of the study revealed that majority of the rural women were in the age group of 31- 42 years, mostly married; majority of respondents belonged to General category, had middle level (upto class 8th) educational qualifications, had a medium-sized (4-7 members) nuclear family, had small land holding (0.08- 0.44 acre), involved in farming activities and had low monthly income (Rs 2000-6000). Only 25.00 percent of respondents had received training in the last three years. Majority of them categorized under medium level of innovativeness (58.93%), slightly more than half of the respondents (52.68%) had medium level of change proneness. Majority of respondents (65.18%) belonged to medium category of economic motivation and about (62.50%) had medium level of risk preference.
Engineering Water‐Stiffening Polymers via PEG‐Sidechain‐Mediated Microphase Separation
Authors: Sheng Yifeng , Ming Xiaoqing , Lin Chengjiang , Yang Chang , Guo Xiwei , Duan Xiaozheng , Zhu He , Zhang Qi
Published: June 2024

Stiffness‐variable polymers have found their enormous potential in practical applications that require automatic adaptation and modulation. However, prevailing materials are often constrained by specific operational triggers, limited mechanical responsiveness, and inadequate universality. In this study, drawing inspiration from the mechanism of non‐solvent induced phase separation (NIPS), a novel series of polymers exhibiting reversible water‐triggered stiffening is designed and synthesized by covalently incorporating poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) as a non‐solvent mediator onto the hydrophobic poly(meth)acrylates backbones. Owing to the hydrophilicity difference between PEG sidechains and backbones, these polymers display swift and substantial alterations in stiffness, with large‐scale and regulable changes (from several‐fold to exceeding 200‐fold) upon water penetration, resulting from water‐induced microphase separation. Meanwhile, the polymers also possess intrinsic dual‐responsive shape‐memory properties. Due to the excellent commercial availability, versatility, and designability of these polymers, the work provides novel perspectives for the advancement of water‐triggered stiffening materials and opens avenues for their prospective applications in various domains.
Strategies for Tuning Tensile Strain and Localized Electrons in a Mo‐Doped NiCoCu Alloy for Enhancing Ampere‐Level Current Density HER Performance
Authors: Qian Guangfu , Wang Yunpeng , Li Liancen , Lu Minsheng , Chen Changzhou , Min Douyong , Wei Zengxi , Tsiakaras Panagiotis
Published: June 2024

Developing high‐activity non‐noble metal catalysts for improving the ability of water dissociation and H* adsorption/desorption in the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) process in alkaline and neutral electrolytes is essential but remains challenging. Herein, a Mo‐doped NiCoCu alloy with tuned tensile strain and localized electrons is designed and synthesized by combining the solvothermal and annealing methods for achieving ampere‐level HER performance. Theoretical calculation results prove that Mo doping induces lattice tensile strain and localized electrons (electrons from Mo to the Ni/Co/Cu atoms), promoting the adsorption of O* and H* from H2O molecules on the Mo and Co sites and accelerating water dissociation. Therefore, NiCoCu‐Mo0.078/CF (CF = copper foam) shows low water dissociation energy, providing sufficient H* during the HER process. Meanwhile, its H* Gibbs free energy value is near zero, implying a rapid H* adsorption/desorption process. Electrochemical results show that NiCoCu‐Mo0.078/CF achieves better HER intrinsic activity in both a 1.0 m KOH (η−10 /η−1000 = 35/212 mV) and a 1.0 m phosphate buffer solution (η−10 /η−1000 = 24/256 mV) compared to NiCoCu‐Mo0/CF and NiCoCu‐Mo0.163/CF, and it can continuously operate for 100 h at −1000 mA cm−2. This work shows a sustainable way to design high‐performance catalysts for water electrolysis and proposes a well‐performing HER catalyst.
Li‐Doping and Ag‐Alloying Interplay Shows the Pathway for Kesterite Solar Cells with Efficiency Over 14%
Authors: Gong Yuancai , Jimenez‐Arguijo Alex , Medaille Axel Gon , Moser Simon , Basak Arindam , Scaffidi Romain , Carron Romain , Flandre Denis , Vermang Bart , Giraldo Sergio , Xin Hao , Perez‐Rodriguez Alejandro , Saucedo Edgardo
Published: June 2024

Kesterite photovoltaic technologies are critical for the deployment of light‐harvesting devices in buildings and products, enabling energy sustainable buildings, and households. The recent improvements in kesterite power conversion efficiencies have focused on improving solution‐based precursors by improving the material phase purity, grain quality, and grain boundaries with many extrinsic doping and alloying agents (Ag, Cd, Ge…). The reported progress for solution‐based precursors has been achieved due to a grain growth in more electronically intrinsic conditions. However, the kesterite device performance is dependent on the majority carrier density and sub‐optimal carrier concentrations of 1014–1015 cm−3have been consistently reported. Increasing the majority carrier density by one order of magnitude would increase the efficiency ceiling of kesterite solar cells, making the 20% target much more realistic. In this work, LiClO4is introduced as a highly soluble and highly thermally stable Li precursor salt which leads to optimal (>1016 cm−3) carrier concentration without a significant impact in other relevant optoelectronic properties. The findings presented in this work demonstrate that the interplay between Li‐doping and Ag‐alloying enables a reproducible and statistically significant improvement in the device performance leading to efficiencies up to 14.1%.
Room‐Temperature Single‐Mode Plasmonic Perovskite Nanolasers with Sub‐Picosecond Pulses
Authors: Li Guohui , Tao Jianxun , Hou Zhen , Zhao Kefan , Zhao Ruofan , Ji Ting , Zhang Qing , Xiong Qihua , Zheng Kaibo , Pullerits Tonu , Cui Yanxia
Published: June 2024

With the explosive growth of communication traffic, increasing the modulation bandwidth of semiconductor lasers has attracted significant attention. However, after rapid progress is achieved, further increasing the modulation bandwidth of semiconductor lasers is hampered by the slow charge‐carrier dynamics. Here, a room temperature, single‐mode perovskite nanolaser with sub‐picosecond pulses, enabled by high Purcell enhancement is reported. This enhancement is achieved via transferring an atomically smooth perovskite nanoplatelet onto the surface of an ultra‐smooth SiO2/Ag film. This nanolaser features a low mode volume (V) as low as 0.137 µm3, a high‐quality factor (Q) up to 2180, and a low lasing threshold of 36.65 µJ cm−2. The Q value of the laser is one order of magnitude higher than that of state‐of‐the‐art nanolasers. The smoothness of both the nanoplatelet and the SiO2/Ag film in the laser is critical to achieving a high Purcell enhancement. Polarization analysis reveals that the laser emission consists of a transvere‐magnetic (TM) polarized surface plasmon mode and a transverse‐electric (TE) polarized photonic mode. Furthermore, ultrafast charge‐carrier dynamics indicate the surface plasmon decay time can be as short as 0.6 ± 0.4 ps due to the high Purcell enhancement. This work opens up the possibility of developing nanolasers with high bandwidths and ultra‐small sizes.
Electrohydrodynamic Direct‐Writing Micro/Nanofibrous Architectures: Principle, Materials, and Biomedical Applications
Authors: Liu Zhengjiang , Jia Jinqiao , Lei Qi , Wei Yan , Hu Yinchun , Lian Xiaojie , Zhao Liqin , Xie Xin , Bai Haiqing , He Xiaomin , Si Longlong , Livermore Carol , Kuang Rong , Zhang Yi , Wang Jiucun , Yu Zhaoyan , Ma Xudong , Huang Di
Published: June 2024

Electrohydrodynamic (EHD) direct‐writing has recently gained attention as a highly promising additive manufacturing strategy for fabricating intricate micro/nanoscale architectures. This technique is particularly well‐suited for mimicking the extracellular matrix (ECM) present in biological tissue, which serves a vital function in facilitating cell colonization, migration, and growth. The integration of EHD direct‐writing with other techniques has been employed to enhance the biological performance of scaffolds, and significant advancements have been made in the development of tailored scaffold architectures and constituents to meet the specific requirements of various biomedical applications. Here, a comprehensive overview of EHD direct‐writing is provided, including its underlying principles, demonstrated materials systems, and biomedical applications. A brief chronology of EHD direct‐writing is provided, along with an examination of the observed phenomena that occur during the printing process. The impact of biomaterial selection and architectural topographic cues on biological performance is also highlighted. Finally, the major limitations associated with EHD direct‐writing are discussed.
An Active Self‐Mitochondria‐Targeting Cyanine Immunomodulator for Near‐Infrared II Fluorescence Imaging‐Guided Synergistic Photodynamic Immunotherapy
Authors: Yu Jin‐Feng , Wen Yu , Li Ming
Published: June 2024

Photodynamic therapy targeting mitochondria represents a promising therapeutic strategy for fighting diverse types of cancers. However, the currently available photosensitizers (PSs) suffer from insufficient therapeutic potency, limited mitochondria delivery efficiency, and the inability to treat invisible metastatic distal cancers. Herein, an active self‐mitochondria‐targeting heptapeptide cyanine (HCy) immunomodulator (I2HCy‐QAP) is reported for near‐infrared II (NIR‐II) fluorescence imaging‐guided photodynamic immunotherapy of primary and distal metastatic cancers. The I2HCy‐QAP is designed by introducing a quaternary ammonium salt with a phenethylamine skeleton (QAP) into the iodinated HCy photosensitizer. The I2HCy‐QAP can precisely target mitochondria due to the lipophilic cationic QAP unit, present strong NIR‐II fluorescence tail emission, and effectively generate singlet oxygen 1O2 under NIR laser irradiation, thereby inducing mitochondria‐targeted damages and eliciting strong systemic immunogenic cell death immune responses. The combination of the I2HCy‐QAP‐mediated photodynamic immunotherapy with anti‐programmed death‐1 antibody therapy achieves remarkable therapeutic efficacy against both primary and distal metastatic cancers with significant inhibition of lung metastasis in a triple‐negative breast cancer model. This work provides a new concept for designing high‐performance NIR emissive cyanine immunomodulators for NIR‐II fluorescence‐guided photodynamic immunotherapy.
Flaring Inflammation and ER Stress by an Organelle‐Specific Fluorescent Cage
Authors: Fakim Aliyah , Maatouk Batoul I. , Maiti Bappa , Dey Avishek , Alotaiby Shahad H. , Moosa Basem A. , Lin Weibin , Khashab Niveen M.
Published: June 2024

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) plays an important role in protein synthesis and its disruption can cause protein unfolding and misfolding. Accumulation of such proteins leads to ER stress, which ultimately promotes many diseases. Routine screening of ER activity in immune cells can flag serious conditions at early stages, but the current clinically used bio‐probes have limitations. Herein, an ER‐specific fluorophore based on a biocompatible benzothiadiazole‐imine cage (BTD‐cage) with excellent photophysical properties is developed. The cage outperforms commercially available ER stains in long‐term live cell imaging with no fading or photobleaching over time. The cage is responsive to different levels of ER stress where its fluorescence increases accordingly. Incorporating the bio‐probe into an immune disorder model, a 6‐, 21‐, and 48‐fold increase in intensity is shown in THP‐1, Raw 246.7, and Jurkat cells, respectively (within 15 min). These results strongly support that this system can be used for rapid visual and selective detection of ER stress. It is envisaged that tailoring molecular interactions and molecular recognition using supramolecular improved fluorophores can expand the library of biological probes for enhanced selectivity and targetability toward cellular organelles.
Magnetically Guided Adeno‐Associated Virus Delivery for the Spatially Targeted Transduction of Retina in Eyes
Authors: Ahn Seungkuk , Siontas Oliver , Koester Janis , Krol Jacek , Fauser Sascha , Müller Daniel J.
Published: June 2024

Adeno‐associated viruses (AAVs) are intensively explored for gene therapies in general and have found promising applications for treating retina diseases. However, controlling the specificity (tropism) and delivery of AAVs to selected layers, cell types, and areas of the retina is a major challenge to further develop retinal gene therapies. Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) provide effective delivery platforms to magnetically guide therapeutics to target cells. Yet, how MNPs can deliver AAVs to transfect particular retina layers and cells remains elusive. Here, it is demonstrated that MNPs can be used to transport different AAVs through the retina and to modulate the selective transduction of specific retinal layers or photoreceptor cells in ex vivo porcine explants and whole eyes. Thereby, transduction is triggered by bringing the viruses in close proximity to the target cell layer and by controlling their interaction time. It is shown that this magnetically guided approach to transport AAVs to selected areas and layers of the retina does not require the cell‐specific optimization of the AAV tropism. It is anticipated that the new approach to control the delivery of AAVs and to selectively transduce cellular systems can be applied to many other tissues or organs to selectively deliver genes of interest.
2D Materials‐Based Thermal Interface Materials: Structure, Properties, and Applications
Authors: Dai Wen , Wang Yandong , Li Maohua , Chen Lu , Yan Qingwei , Yu Jinhong , Jiang Nan , Lin Cheng‐Te
Published: June 2024

The challenges associated with heat dissipation in high‐power electronic devices used in communication, new energy, and aerospace equipment have spurred an urgent need for high‐performance thermal interface materials (TIMs) to establish efficient heat transfer pathways from the heater (chip) to heat sinks. Recently, emerging 2D materials, such as graphene and boron nitride, renowned for their ultrahigh basal‐plane thermal conductivity and the capacity to facilitate cross‐scale, multi‐morphic structural design, have found widespread use as thermal fillers in the production of high‐performance TIMs. To deepen the understanding of 2D material‐based TIMs, this review focuses primarily on graphene and boron nitride‐based TIMs, exploring their structures, properties, and applications. Building on this foundation, the developmental history of these TIMs is emphasized and a detailed analysis of critical challenges and potential solutions is provided. Additionally, the preparation and application of some other novel 2D materials‐based TIMs are briefly introduced, aiming to offer constructive guidance for the future development of high‐performance TIMs.
Stepwise Charge/Energy Transfer in MR‐TADF Molecule‐Doped Exciplex for Ultralong Persistent Luminescence Activated with Visible Light
Authors: Jin Pengfei , Wei Xiaofang , Yin Baipeng , Xu Lixin , Guo Yunlong , Zhang Chuang
Published: June 2024

Organic long‐persistent luminescence (OLPL), which relies on energy storage for delayed light emission by the charge separation state, has attracted intense attention in various optical applications. However, charge separation (CS) is efficient only under ultraviolet excitation in most OLPL systems because it requires a driving force from the large energy difference between the local excited (LE) and charge transfer (CT) states. In this study, a multiresonance thermally activated delayed fluorescence (MR‐TADF) molecule is incorporated into an exciplex system to achieve efficient OLPL in a composite material activated by visible light via a stepwise charge/energy transfer process. The enhanced absorption of the composite material facilitated a tenfold increase in the duration of the OLPL, which can last for several hours under visible light excitation. The excited state of the MR‐TADF molecule tends to charge transfer to the acceptor, followed by energy transfer to the exciplex, which benefits from the small difference between the LE and CT states owing to the inherent CS characteristics of the opposing resonance effect. Afterglow displays of these composite materials are fabricated to demonstrate their considerable potential in encryption patterns and emergency lights, which take advantage of their excellent processability, visible light activation, and tunable luminescence properties.
Giant Iontronic Flexoelectricity in Soft Hydrogels Induced by Tunable Biomimetic Ion Polarization
Authors: Jia Luyao , Li Longwei , Guo Zi Hao , Sun Hao , Huang Haiming , Sun Fuchun , Wang Zhong Lin , Pu Xiong
Published: June 2024

Flexoelectricity features the strain gradient‐induced mechanoelectric conversion using materials not limited by their crystalline symmetry, but state‐of‐the‐art flexoelectric materials exhibit very small flexoelectric coefficients and are too brittle to withstand large deformations. Here, inspired by the ion polarization in living organisms, this paper reports the giant iontronic flexoelectricity of soft hydrogels where the ion polarization is attributed to the different transfer rates of cations and anions under bending deformations. The flexoelectricity is found to be easily regulated by the types of anion–cation pairs and polymer networks in the hydrogel. A polyacrylamide hydrogel with 1 m NaCl achieves a record‐high flexoelectric coefficient of ≈1160 µC m−1, which can even be improved to ≈2340 µC m−1 by synergizing with the effects of ion pairs and extra polycation chains. Furthermore, the hydrogel as flexoelectric materials can withstand larger bending deformations to obtain higher polarization charges owing to its intrinsic low modulus and high elasticity. A soft flexoelectric sensor is then demonstrated for object recognition by robotic hands. The findings greatly broaden the flexoelectricity to soft, biomimetic, and biocompatible materials and applications.
Construction of Difluorinated Cycloheptadienones via Substrate‐Controlled Regioselective Conjugate Addition of Difluoroenoxysilanes to Tropones and Their Anticancer Activity
Authors: Wang Xi‐Yu , Guo Yan‐Zhi , Shi Shanshan , Li Shiliang , Yu Jin‐Sheng , Dong Su‐Zhen , Hao Yong‐Jia , Zhou Jian
Published: June 2024

The substrate‐controlled regioselective conjugate addition (1,8‐ and 1,4‐addition) of tropones with difluoroenoxysilanes is reported, which offered an approach for the selective synthesis of multifunctional seven‐membered 3,5‐cycloheptadien‐1‐ones and 1,3‐cycloheptadien‐1‐ones featuring a gem‐difluoroketone moiety. Moreover, these fluorinated cyclo‐heptadienones exhibit effective anti‐proliferative activities (IC50<1 μM) for human colon carcinoma HCT116 cells in vitro, thus providing potential lead compounds for developing new anticancer agents.
Application of Primary Phosphine Oxides in Domino‐Phospha‐Aldol Reactions of Diketones
Authors: Horký Filip , Bruhn Clemens , Kargin Denis , Pietschnig Rudolf
Published: June 2024

An approach for the preparation and stabilization of primary phosphine oxides is presented complementing previous methods of in situ generation. Specifically, RP(O)H2 where R=benzyl (Bn), cyclohexyl (Cy), 2‐naphthyl (2‐Naph), phenyl (Ph), tert‐butyl (t‐Bu) was prepared by controlled oxidation of the corresponding primary phosphine in presence of ferrocene as stabilizing reagent. The primary phosphine oxides were characterized using NMR and MS and studied in twofold hydrophosphorylation of diketones. The domino‐phospha‐aldol reaction catalysed with 5 mol% of sodium methoxide yielded five‐, six‐ and seven‐membered heterocyclic tertiary phosphine oxides with a high degree of stereoselectivity, as confirmed by single X‐ray diffraction.
In Vivo Combined Photoacoustic Imaging and Photothermal Treatment of HPV‐Negative Head and Neck Carcinoma with NIR‐Responsive Non‐Persistent Plasmon Nano‐Architectures
Authors: Frusca Valentina , Cavallini Chiara , Zamborlin Agata , Drava Giuliana , Barone Virginia , Gherardini Lisa , Chiariello Mario , Armanetti Paolo , Ermini Maria Laura , Menichetti Luca , Voliani Valerio
Published: June 2024

The combination of photoacoustic imaging (PAI) and photothermal therapy (PTT) is an attractive approach in cancer management due to the non‐invasive features combined with real‐time imaging and selective tissue damage by non‐ionizing radiation. This approach is especially appealing for Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC) management, where up to 40% of patients require modifications of the treatment regimen. On the other hand, most of the agents developed for PAI/PTT suffer from persistence or re‐shaping issues. Here, a unique non‐persistent plasmon nano‐architecture (tNAs‐IRDye) is presented that simultaneously acts as a contrast agent for PAI and as a photothermal transducer for PTT. The tNAs‐IRDye are fully characterized and evaluated in vitro and ex vivo, and their performance as theranostic agents is assessed in HPV‐negative HNSCC murine models. A significant modulation of tumor growth is obtained in vivo upon intratumoral injection of tNAs‐IRDye and subsequent NIR irradiation compared to the solely irradiated control. The outcomes of this study exhibit a noteworthy potential to foster the development of innovative clinical strategies for the management of HPV‐negative head and neck carcinoma.
TEK gene‐related primary congenital glaucoma: Phenotypic features and mutational spectrum in a Mexican cohort of 10 unrelated families
Authors: Chacon‐Camacho Oscar Francisco , Ordaz‐Robles Thania , Cid‐García Marion Aline , Hofmann‐Blancas María Enriqueta , Ledesma‐Gil Jasbeth , García‐Huerta María Magdalena , Prado‐Larrea Carolina , Cortés‐González Vianney , Lozano‐Garza Rodrigo Isaac , García‐Vega Daphne , Kim JiHye , Khang Rin , Lee Eugene , Zenteno Juan Carlos
Published: June 2024

Primary congenital glaucoma (PCG) is one of the leading causes of visual damage and blindness, severely affecting the quality of life of affected children. It is characterized by cupping of the optic disc and loss of ganglion cells due to elevated intraocular pressure. While most PCG patients exhibit epiphora, photophobia, and buphthalmos with corneal opacity, variability in phenotypic manifestations is not uncommon. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of PCG affected individuals becomes relevant to preserve visual function throughout their lives. Most PCG cases are sporadic or autosomal recessive; however, an incompletely dominant autosomal dominant form arising from mutations in the TEK gene has recently been demonstrated. Here, we describe the clinical and mutational features of a cohort of Mexican patients with TEK‐related PCG. Our results support the involvement of the TEK gene as an important cause of the disease in our ethnic group and expand the mutational spectrum causing PCG by reporting 10 novel disease‐causing variants.