bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Cerebral Venous Thrombosis and Mortality
Authors: Nguyen Thanh N. , Qureshi Muhammad M. , Klein Piers , Yamagami Hiroshi , Abdalkader Mohamad , Mikulik Robert , Sathya Anvitha , Mansour Ossama Yassin , Czlonkowska Anna , Lo Hannah , Field Thalia S. , Charidimou Andreas , Banerjee Soma , Yaghi Shadi , Siegler James E. , Sedova Petra , Kwan Joseph , de Sousa Diana Aguiar , Demeestere Jelle , Inoa Violiza , Omran Setareh Salehi , Zhang Liqun , Michel Patrik , Strambo Davide , Marto João Pedro , Nogueira Raul G. ,   SVIN COVID-19 Global COVID Stroke Registry
Published: June 2022

Background and Purpose Recent studies suggested an increased incidence of cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. We evaluated the volume of CVT hospitalization and in-hospital mortality during the 1st year of the COVID-19 pandemic compared to the preceding year.Methods We conducted a cross-sectional retrospective study of 171 stroke centers from 49 countries. We recorded COVID-19 admission volumes, CVT hospitalization, and CVT in-hospital mortality from January 1, 2019, to May 31, 2021. CVT diagnoses were identified by International Classification of Disease-10 (ICD-10) codes or stroke databases. We additionally sought to compare the same metrics in the first 5 months of 2021 compared to the corresponding months in 2019 and 2020 (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04934020).Results There were 2,313 CVT admissions across the 1-year pre-pandemic (2019) and pandemic year (2020); no differences in CVT volume or CVT mortality were observed. During the first 5 months of 2021, there was an increase in CVT volumes compared to 2019 (27.5%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 24.2 to 32.0; P<0.0001) and 2020 (41.4%; 95% CI, 37.0 to 46.0; P<0.0001). A COVID-19 diagnosis was present in 7.6% (132/1,738) of CVT hospitalizations. CVT was present in 0.04% (103/292,080) of COVID-19 hospitalizations. During the first pandemic year, CVT mortality was higher in patients who were COVID positive compared to COVID negative patients (8/53 [15.0%] vs. 41/910 [4.5%], P=0.004). There was an increase in CVT mortality during the first 5 months of pandemic years 2020 and 2021 compared to the first 5 months of the pre-pandemic year 2019 (2019 vs. 2020: 2.26% vs. 4.74%, P=0.05; 2019 vs. 2021: 2.26% vs. 4.99%, P=0.03). In the first 5 months of 2021, there were 26 cases of vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT), resulting in six deaths. Conclusions During the 1st year of the COVID-19 pandemic, CVT hospitalization volume and CVT in-hospital mortality did not change compared to the prior year. COVID-19 diagnosis was associated with higher CVT in-hospital mortality. During the first 5 months of 2021, there was an increase in CVT hospitalization volume and increase in CVT-related mortality, partially attributable to VITT.
Chemo-mechanical removal versus conventional removal for deep caries lesion
Authors: Zambrano-Achig Paula , Viteri-García Andrés , Verdugo-Paiva Francisca
Published: June 2022

INTRODUCCION La caries dental tradicionalmente es manejada con la remoción no selectiva del tejido carioso (remoción total). Sin embargo, los efectos adversos y el temor que produce esta técnica en los pacientes ha promovido la utilización de técnicas de remoción de caries más conservadoras como la remoción químico-mecánica, pero aún existe controversia respecto a su efectividad y seguridad. MÉTODOS Para responder esta pregunta utilizamos Epistemonikos, la mayor base de datos de revisiones sistemáticas en salud, la cual es mantenida mediante búsquedas en múltiples fuentes de información, incluyendo MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, entre otras. Extrajimos los datos desde las revisiones identificadas, analizamos los datos de los estudios primarios, realizamos un metaanálisis y preparamos tablas de resumen de los resultados utilizando el método GRADE. RESULTADOS Y CONCLUSIONES Identificamos siete revisiones sistemáticas que en conjunto incluyeron 34 estudios primarios, de los cuales 30 corresponden a ensayos aleatorizados. Concluimos que la remoción químico-mecánica de caries probablemente disminuye la necesidad de anestesia. Además, podría disminuir el dolor que experimenta el paciente, disminuir el riesgo del fracaso de la restauración y aumentar el tiempo del procedimiento, pero la certeza de la evidencia es baja. No es posible establecer con claridad si la remoción químico- mecánica disminuye el riesgo de exposición pulpar debido a que la certeza de la evidencia existente ha sido evaluada como muy baja.
Development of the concept of permanent representation as a tool to increase the "tax" attractiveness of the Russian economy
Authors: Makhneva Evgeniya Dmitrievna
Published: June 2022

The object of this study is the taxation of profits and incomes of foreign companies in the context of the institute of "permanent representation", the subject is the problems of collecting mandatory payments and the transformation of the institute in the conditions of digitalization of the economy. Within the framework of the article, the authors analyze the nature of a permanent establishment as a certain characteristic of a subject of tax law based on foreign experience. When revealing the objective reasons and prerequisites for the need to transform this institution, an analysis is also carried out based on the subjects of world economy and the theoretical approach of domestic researchers of such a transformation option as the introduction of the definition of "digital permanent representation". As a result of the study, the authors come to the conclusion about the need for qualitative changes in Russian tax law in terms of the regulation of permanent representation: its definitions, definitions of a single approach to a single technological process and the need to introduce the institute of digital permanent representation. When studying this problem, qualitative theoretical and practical analyses were carried out. The scientific novelty of the study consists in substantiating the existence of significant problems in the regulation of taxation of profits and income of foreign companies operating in Russia, in particular, through permanent representative offices, and proposals for their elimination.
A Bidirectional Context-Aware and Multi-Scale Fusion Hybrid Network for Short-Term Traffic Flow Prediction
Authors: CHEN Zhixing , ZHENG Guizhou
Published: June 2022

Short-term traffic flow prediction is to automatically predict the traffic flow changes in a period of future time based on the extraction of the spatiotemporal features in the road network. For governments, timely and accurate traffic flow prediction is crucial to plan road manage-ment and improve traffic efficiency. Recent advances in deep learning have shown their dominance on short-term traffic flow prediction. However, previous methods based on deep learning are mainly limited to temporal features and have so far failed to predict the bidirectional con-textual spatiotemporal relationship correctly. Besides, the precision and the practicality are limited by the road network scale and the single time scale. To remedy these issues, a Bidirectional Context-aware and Multi-scale fusion hybrid Network (BCM-Net) is proposed, which is a novel short-term traffic flow prediction framework to predict timely and accurate traffic flow changes. In BCM-Net, the Bidirectional Context-aware (BCM) block is added to the feature extraction structure to effective-ly integrate spatiotemporal features. The Interpolation Back Propagation sub-network is used to merge multi-scale information, which further improves the robustness of the model. Experiment results on diverse datasets demonstrated that the proposed method outperformed the state-of-the-art methods.
Railway Interlockings – A Review of the Current State of Railway Safety Technology in Europe
Authors: BĂDĂU Florin
Published: June 2022

Interlockings are an essential element of the railway system. They are necessary to command and control devices, such as points and signals in order to route trains within the bounds of railway stations. Their design must ensure the highest level of safety for all involved parties. The European continent has an extensive railway network which has slowly grown over more than 150 years. Interlockings have evolved over the same period from large mechanical devices requiring physical force to operate to computerised systems capable of complex operations. Despite the technological leap, many interlockings using older technologies are still in use in the present. This review aims to paint an accurate picture of the current state of interlockings in Europe by evaluating the share of each interlocking generation (mechanical, relay and electronic). The study covers 15 countries and over 200,000 km of railway tracks, representing over two thirds of the entire EU railway network. A brief presentation is given for each country, while comparisons made between the researched countries highlight certain key findings. The focus is only on station interlockings, not including line signalling. The conclusions of this analysis include recommendations for current and future development of the railway sector.
Withasomniferol C, a new potential SARS-CoV-2 main protease inhibitor from the Withania somnifera plant proposed by in silico approaches
Authors: Kandagalla Shivananada , Rimac Hrvoje , Gurushankar Krishnamoorthy , Novak Jurica , Grishina Maria , Potemkin Vladimir
Published: June 2022

Exploring potent herbal medicine candidates is a promising strategy for combating a pandemic in the present global health crisis. In Ayurveda (a traditional medicine system in India), Withania somnifera (WS) is one of the most important herbs and it has been used for millennia as Rasayana (a type of juice) for its wide-ranging health benefits. WS phytocompounds display a broad spectrum of biological activities (such as antioxidant, anticancer and antimicrobial) modulate detoxifying enzymes, and enhance immunity. Inspired by the numerous biological actions of WS phytocompounds, the present investigation explored the potential of the WS phytocompounds against the SARS-CoV-2 main protease (3CLpro). We selected 11 specific withanolide compounds, such as withaphysalin, withasomniferol, and withafastuosin, through manual literature curation against 3CLpro. A molecular similarity analysis showed their similarity with compounds that have an established inhibitory activity against the SARS-CoV-2. In silico molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations elucidated withasomniferol C (WS11) as a potential candidate against SARS-CoV-2 3CLpro. Additionally, the present work also presents a new method of validating docking poses using the AlteQ method.
Identifying Trajectories of Ego-resiliency in Adolescents: An Analysis of Data from the Korean Children and Youth Panel Survey 2010
Authors: Son Miseon
Published: June 2022

Purpose: This study aimed to identify latent classes of ego-resiliency trajectories in adolescents and investigate predictors of latent classes based on the ecological systems theory. Methods: This study used data from the first, second, and fourth to seventh waves of the Korean Children and Youth Panel Survey 2010. The subjects included 1,793 adolescents. The data were analyzed using latent class growth analysis in Mplus 8.3 and multinomial logistic regression in SPSS 26.0. Results: The trajectories of ego-resiliency in adolescents were classified into four groups; increasing, decreasing, persistently moderate, and persistently poor. The predictors of the ‘increasing’ group were male gender, higher self-esteem, lower depression, lower parental behavior, and higher perceived community. The predictors of the ‘decreasing’ group were higher self-esteem, higher scores for relationships with friends and teachers, and higher perceived community. The predictors of the ‘persistently poor’ group were lower self-esteem, higher depression, lower annual income, lower scores for relationships with friends, and lower perceived community. Conclusion: We identified predictors for a persistently poor ego-resiliency trajectory. We suggest providing effective interventions for latent classes of ego-resiliency in adolescents based on the ecological environments.
Symptom Management of Individuals with Post-COVID-19 Syndrome: A Multiple-Case Study
Authors: Baek Gumhee , Cha Chiyoung
Published: June 2022

Purpose: This study aimed to understand the symptom management experiences of patients with post-COVID-19 syndrome and to identify patterns therein. Methods: Yin's multiple-case study design was utilized. Purposive sampling was used to recruit participants who experienced post-COVID-19 syndrome symptoms. One-on-one interviews and surveys were conducted with six participants between October 22, 2021 and November 28, 2021. Data analysis, which included content analysis for in-depth interview data and survey data, followed the process suggested by Yin. Results: Common themes identified between the cases were experiencing deterioration of health compared to the before getting COVID-19, utilizing various methods to relieve physical symptoms, coping passively with psychological symptom management, and difficultly in managing symptoms due to the lack of a post-COVID-19 syndrome management system. Differences between cases included various degrees of utilizing healthcare system for symptom, attitude toward accepting symptoms, and taking the lead in managing symptoms according to returning to work. Three patterns of symptom management of individuals with post-COVID-19 syndrome were identified: self-management, treatment focus, lethargy. Conclusion: This study highlights the need for a nursing environment in which individuals experiencing post-COVID-19 syndrome can lead and take responsibility for health care, and it is suggested that future studies should develop high-quality nursing intervention programs for post-COVID-19 syndrome.
Correlation and Path Analysis for Yield and Quality Traits in Hybrid Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Buelah J. , Reddy V. Ram , Srinivas B. , Balram N.
Published: June 2022

24 hybrids generated by crossing four male sterile lines with six testers in line x tester fashion were studied along with their parents and checks (BIO-799 and PA 6129) for correlation and path analysis. The results emphasized the need for selection, based on plant type with greater plant height, number of productive tillers per plant, head rice recovery, milling percentage, spikelet fertility, panicle length and kernel length. Since, these traits were found to be the important direct contributors for grain yield.
Assessment of Heritability, Genetic Advance and Correlation Analysis for Grain Yield Characters of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Anuhya B. , Lavanya G. R.
Published: June 2022

An investigation was carried out on twenty one rice genotype during kharif, 2021 at the experimental field of Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, SHUATS, Allahabad in Randomized Block Design with three replications to analyze heritability and genetic advance for 14 quantitative characters. A close examination of variability coefficients revealed that the differences between PCV and GCV were small indicating little influence of environment on the expression of the characters. High to moderate estimates of GCV and PCV were recorded for number of tillers per hill followed by grain yield per plant, number of filled grains per panicle and biological yield. High estimates of heritability were observed for days to maturity, number of total tillers per hill, plant height, days to 50% flowering, grain yield per hill which suggested that these traits would respond to selection owing to their high genetic variability and certainly lead to improvement in grain yield. Moreover, the information generated from this study, can be exploited in future rice breeding program.
Libyan Tourism Crisis Planning and Stakeholder Responses
Authors: Daafous Sami Ramadan
Published: June 2022

Aims and Place of Study: A comprehensive framework is developed in conjunction with recommendations for resolving the crisis confronting national-level tourism plans, which is then applied to the Libyan case. Until now, overcoming a lack of tourism planning in unstable countries has been a lengthy, expensive process, with detailed solutions tailored to such an environment rarely being implemented systematically. the current study may contribute to developing tourism crisis management plans, thereby improving this sector and reviving tourism in Libya.

Methodology: It is argued that by systematically examining the people involved in the tourism planning as well as the tourism sector in general along with the tourism planning documents against a set of criteria, much can be learned about tourism planning. While plans vary according to context, all tourism plans should incorporate certain characteristics. This dissertation identified several characteristics that should be included in national-level tourism plans, including involved stakeholders and the inclusion of scenarios and a backup plan.

Results: This research determines the factors that constituted an obstacle to tourism development in Libya through the PESTEL model and then focused on a number of those factors. Based on the analysis of these factors, a model is developed that organises the practical elements that could enhance the tourism sector in developing countries. This is considered a pillar of national tourism planning, focusing on local and international stakeholders and their role in the success of the planning and identifying other factors supporting the planning process and then dividing each component. It then points to crucial points drawn from the relevant literature indicating the characteristics of a good plan and the human and financial resources that must be reserved in the plan due to their importance to the success of planning. The framework is then used to guide the examination and evaluation of documents about the Libyan Tourism Plan.

Conclusion: The analysis concludes with recommendations for improving Libyan tourism planning and maximising the benefits of the current Libyan tourism plan (LNTP) 2009-2025. This research contributes to tourism planning by proposing a framework that can address tourism plans of the politically troubled nations at the national level, thereby facilitating the identification of problems and issues, allowing for the most efficient learning from mistakes, and providing a framework for conducting comparative studies.
Exploration of Clinician Perspectives on Multidisciplinary Tumor Board Function Beyond Clinical Decision-making
Authors: Wong Bonnie O. , Blythe Jacob A. , Wu Adela , Batten Jason N. , Kennedy Kristin M. , Kouaho Amanda S. , Wren Sherry M.
Published: June 2022

This qualitative study uses interview data to explore clinician perspectives on the function of multidisciplinary tumor boards beyond clinical decision-making.
“We're all in this together”? Reflections on inequity during tumultuous times
Authors: Hansman Catherine A.
Published: June 2022

This article discusses the interwoven disruptions caused by the multiple crises of the COVID‐19 pandemic, violent incidents against persons of color, social justice concerns, and political and civil unrest. Discussion will center on how these crises impacted and continue to affect careers, schools, workplaces, and personal lives. The chapter will conclude with frameworks of care that can be adapted by adult learners and educators to respond to ongoing crises.
So you say our work is essential: Essential workers and the potential for transformative learning in the wake of COVID‐19 social and economic disruption
Authors: Scully‐Russ Ellen , Cseh Maria , Hakimi Lily , Philip Jerry , Lundgren Henriette , Ralston DJ
Published: June 2022

At the start of the COVID‐19 pandemic, some US workers became “essential” overnight and were, therefore, ineligible to work from home. Millions of these workers put their lives at risk to keep society functioning. So, why do we undervalue those we cannot live without? This article explores the transformative potential of learning in and about essential work in the wake of social and economic disruptions of a pandemic. We ask, what potential does this current moment hold to repair the western social and economic order predicated on the precarity of essential work? We review human flourishing within a human capabilities approach and borrow feminist's notion of repair work that evokes transformative learning in individuals and society. Finally, we consider how the perspective of “learning to repair” along the spirit of uBuntu and generative Communitas can enhance transformative learning theory and practice.
A Novel Ordered B2 Particle Strengthened Mg–Li–Zn Alloy
Authors: Zhang Shun , Sun Dongpeng , Wu Ruizhi , Jia Haoyang , Wu Qiang , Zhang Jinghuai , Hou Legan
Published: June 2022

Mg–13Li–9Zn alloy is prepared by casting and hot rolling. The microstructure evolution and mechanical properties are systematically investigated by optical microscope (OM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), and tensile tests. A large number of B2 nanoparticles semicoherent with the matrix are uniformly dispersed within the grains of the as‐cast Mg–13Li–9Zn alloy, which increases the hardness by three times compared with that of the as‐cast Mg–13Li alloy. However, the continuously distributed MgLi2Zn phase at the grain boundary reduces the ability to resist tensile stress, resulting in intergranular fracture at the elastic deformation stage. After rolling, dynamic recrystallization occurs, and both the strength and ductility are improved. The B2 particles have good thermal stability and maintain a semicoherent relationship with the matrix during the hot rolling process. In addition, some spinodal decomposition zones are introduced into the matrix via the rolling process. The yield strength (YS) and elongation (EL) of the rolled alloy reach 280 MPa and 22%, respectively.
The Semicoherent Interface and Vacancy Engineering for Constructing Ni(Co)Se2@Co(Ni)Se2 Heterojunction as Ultrahigh‐Rate Battery‐Type Supercapacitor Cathode
Authors: Zhao Jian , Cheng He , Zhang Zhenhui , Liu Yuan , Song Jiangnan , Liu Ting , He Yinna , Meng Alan , Sun Changlong , Hu Minmin , Wang Lei , Li Guicun , Huang Jianfeng , Li Zhenjiang
Published: June 2022

Restricted rate capability is the key bottleneck for the large‐scale energy storage of battery‐type supercapacitor cathode due to its sluggish reaction kinetics. Herein, Ni(Co)Se2@Co(Ni)Se2 semicoherent heterojunctions with rich Se vacancies (Vr‐Ni(Co)Se2@Co(Ni)Se2) as cathode are first constructed. Such a vacancy and heterointerface manipulation can not only essentially regulate the electronic structure and enhance ions adsorption capability, but also rationalize the chemical affinities of OH– ions in diffusion pathway revealed by systematic characterization analysis and first‐principle calculations. The as‐prepared cathode delivers large specific capacity of 264.5 mAh g–1 at 1 A g–1 and excellent cycle stability. Surprisingly, it presents ultrahigh rate with the retention of 159.7 mAh g–1 even at 250 A g–1. Moreover, the single phase transition mechanism of the cathode is elucidated systematically using series of ex situ techniques. In addition, contributed by the unique cathode and the self‐synthesized N/S co‐doped corncob‐derived porous carbon (N/S‐BPC, 316.1 F g–1 at 1 A g–1) anode, a high‐performance hybrid supercapacitor (HSC) is developed, which shows the energy density of 68.1 Wh kg–1 at 0.75 kW kg–1 and a superior cycle performance. The findings highlight a coordination strategy for the rational design of ultrahigh‐rate battery‐type HSC cathode, greatly pushing their commercial application processes.
Endogenous Synergistic Enhanced Self‐Powered Photodetector via Multi‐Effect Coupling Strategy toward High‐Efficiency Ultraviolet Communication
Authors: Ouyang Tian , Zhao Xuan , Xun Xiaochen , Zhao Bin , Zhang Zheng , Qin Zi , Kang Zhuo , Liao Qingliang , Zhang Yue
Published: June 2022

Ultraviolet (UV) communication is a promising security optical wireless communication technology, and self‐powered photodetectors as their optical receivers offer formidable evolution opportunities. However, insufficient light harvesting and carrier separation of self‐powered photodetectors hinder them from achieving high‐efficiency UV communication. Herein, a multi‐effect coupling strategy is proposed to design an enhanced self‐powered Ag NPs@ZnO nanowires/PEDOT:PSS (AZP) UV photodetector. Taking full advantage of the plasmonic and pyro‐phototronic coupling effect, the endogenous synergistic enhancement of UV light utilization and charge separation efficiency is realized without external field. The responsivity and detectivity of the AZP photodetector are significantly increased more than two and three times respectively, and the response time is less than 0.1 ms. Furthermore, a UV communication system is integrated based on the self‐powered AZP photodetector that conducts synchronous, accurate, and rapid wireless data transmission. Notably, the integrated UV communication system presenting large communication bandwidth with 4800 baud exhibits desirable efficient information transmission potential. This work provides design strategies for the advanced self‐powered UV photodetector toward future energy‐saving and high‐efficiency optical wireless communication.
Biomimetic Chromotropic Photonic‐Ionic Skin with Robust Resilience, Adhesion, and Stability
Authors: Sun Yudong , Wang Yunpeng , Liu Yu , Wu Suli , Zhang Shufen , Niu Wenbin
Published: June 2022

The growing interest in mimicry of biological skins greatly promotes the birth of high‐performance artificial skins. Chameleon skins can actively transform environmental information into bioelectrical and color‐change signals simultaneously through manipulating ion transduction and photonic nanostructures. Here, inspired by chameleon skins, a novel biomimetic chromotropic photonic‐ionic skin (PI‐skin) capable of outputting synergistic electrical and optical signals under strain with robust adhesion, stability, and resilience is ingeniously constructed. The PI‐skin exhibits sensitive structural color change synchronized with electrical response via adjusting the lattice spacing of the photonic crystal (mechanochromic sensitivity: 1.89 nm per %, Δλ > 150 nm). Notably, the polyzwitterionic network provides abundant electrostatic interactions, endowing the PI‐skin with excellent adhesion, environmental tolerance, and outstanding mechanical stability (>10 000 continuous cycles). Meanwhile, the high loading of ionic liquid (IL) weakens the electrostatic interaction between the polyzwitterionic molecular chains, leading to high resilience. The PI‐skin is finally applied to construct a visually interactive wearable device, realizing precise human motion monitoring, remote communication, and visual localization of pressure distribution. This work not only expands design ideas for the construction of advanced biomimetic I‐skins but also provides a general optical platform for high‐level visual interactive devices and smart wearable electronics.
Enhanced Ultraviolet Spontaneous and Lasing Emission Through Interface Engineering of Patterned Vertically Aligned ZnO Nanowires
Authors: Guo Zhen , Zhao Dongxu , Li Lin , Andreazza‐Vignolle Caroline , Andreazza Pascal , Zhang Ligong , Zhang Wei , Zhou Lianqun
Published: June 2022

Due to optical radiation losses, a high pumping threshold or low temperature is necessary for driving ultraviolet (UV) light emission devices, and surface/interface engineering method is one of the alternatives for tailoring photon behavior. Here, a fully integrated nanowire (NW) laser device is thus constructed, resulting in suppressed interface light loss. Enhanced UV spontaneous and lasing emission is observed due to adequate gain to compensate for the optical loss. Applying well‐aligned ZnO NW cavities, optimized UV spontaneous and lasing emission is realized, supporting an effective optical path through interface engineering for photon extraction. As proven by experimental results, through interface integration with Pt metal for ZnO NWs, 170% photoluminescence (PL) emission enhancement accompanied by 145% broaden emission spectra width in the UV region is obtained. It is also observed that more lasing modes appeare when excitation density is high enough, lasing modes interspacing of around 3 nm, and full width at half maximum of the modes <0.003 eV for the lasing device could be observed. The detailed optical simulation is proposed to understand the physical origin of internal mechanisms contributing to the optimized spontaneous and stimulated lasing emission behaviors.
g‐C3N4/SnS2 van der Waals Heterostructures Enabling High‐Efficiency Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Liu Yue , Lv Chade , Sun Jingxue , Zhou Xin , Zhou Yansong , Chen Gang
Published: June 2022

Van der Waals (vdW) heterojunction has played an essential role in effectively utilizing solar energy for sustainable hydrogen production. Herein, a 2D/2D g‐C3N4/SnS2 photocatalyst with vdW heterojunction is developed by self‐assembly contacting SnS2 hexagonal nanoplates and g‐C3N4 nanosheets. A reasonable Type‐II charge transfer mechanism based on the vdW heterostructure is proposed and verified by hydroxyl radical generation test. Photocatalysts with vdW heterostructure enable high‐efficiency H2 production under the visible light illumination, of which the optimized rate is about seven times higher than that of SnS2. Experimental analysis and corresponding density functional theory simulation jointly identify that enhanced photocatalytic activity is ascribed to the optimized behavior of photogenerated carriers and promotional interaction between reactants with catalysts. Specifically, charge redistribution and staggered band structure of the heterojunction intrinsically facilitate the efficient interfacial charge migration and separation. Diminished free energy of surface hydrogen adsorption reveals the easier hydrogen adsorption‐desorption for a composite system from the viewpoint of thermodynamics. This work may be attractive for the implementation of rationally synthesizing catalysts for efficient photocatalytic water splitting.
Anion Exchange Membranes for Fuel Cells: State‐of‐the‐Art and Perspectives
Authors: Chen Huanhuan , Tao Ran , Bang Ki‐Taek , Shao Minhua , Kim Yoonseob
Published: June 2022

Fuel cell technology is a clean way of generating energy and should enable carbon neutrality. However, although traditional proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) have made a commercial impact, their high cost hinders their wider adoption. Fuel cells that use anion exchange membranes (AEMs) are a promising alternative to PEMFCs, as they can achieve the same performance at a lower cost. In this Perspective, recent trends in the fabrication of polymer‐based high‐performance AEMs are highlighted and future directions are identified. Since ensuring the durability of polymers in strong alkaline conditions is the most critical issue in the development of AEM fuel cells, strategies for the formation of polymers with chemical stability, mechanical stability, and ionic conductivity are primarily focused on. Successes in polymer design are expected to inaugurate the next generation of AEMs and trigger a fresh wave of innovation, leading to the development of long‐lasting fuel cells that reduce carbon emissions and facilitate sustainable development.
Tuning interfacial interactions for bottom‐up assembly of surface‐anchored metal‐organic frameworks to tailor film morphology and pattern surface features
Authors: Fasana Christine D. , Gonzalez Fabiola G. , Wade Jonathan W. , Weeks Ashley M. , Dhanapala B. Dulani , Anderson Mary E.
Published: June 2022

Surface‐anchored metal‐organic frameworks (surMOFs) integrate nanoporous supramolecular MOF materials directly into architectures for applications such as gas storage, chemical sensing, and energy storage. Layer‐by‐layer solution‐phase deposition of the MOF‐14 components (1,3,5‐tris(4‐carboxyphenyl)benzene and copper (II) dimers, respectively) produces a porous and conformal film on carboxyl‐terminated self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs). In this research, the formation of ultrathin (less than 25 nm) surMOF films on codeposited bicomponent SAMs and microcontact printed SAMs is investigated by atomic force microscopy, ellipsometry, infrared spectroscopy, and contact angle goniometry. SAMs composed of methyl‐terminated alkanethiols assembled on gold substrates inhibit surMOF formation, whereas carboxyl‐terminated alkanethiols promote MOF‐14‐based film growth. To tune the density of carboxyl groups that anchor the film, methyl‐ and carboxyl‐terminated alkanethiols of varying concentrations are codeposited on gold. This systematic study demonstrates how surMOF film formation and morphology are impacted by these SAMs with mixed surface functionalities. Chemical patterning methods for SAMs, such as microcontact printing (μCP), commonly have mixed chemical functionalities within certain regions of the pattern. Insights gained regarding how mixed surface functionalities affect surMOF film formation are applied herein to optimize the μCP method to produce chemically patterned SAMs that selectively direct surMOF assembly to produce high‐quality surMOF film features.
Mild Acidosis‐Directed Signal Amplification in Tumor Microenvironment via Spatioselective Recruitment of DNA Amplifiers
Authors: Di Zhenghan , Lu Xueguang , Zhao Jian , Jaklenec Ana , Zhao Yuliang , Langer Robert , Li Lele
Published: June 2022

DNA biotechnology offers intriguing opportunities for amplification‐based sensitive detection. However, spatiotemporally‐controlled manipulation of signal amplification for in situ imaging of the tumor microenvironment remains an outstanding challenge. Here, we demonstrate a DNA‐based strategy that can spatial‐selectively amplify the acidic signal in the extracellular milieu of the tumor to achieve specific imaging with improved sensitivity. The strategy, termed mild acidosis‐targeted amplification (MAT‐amp), leverages the specific acidic microenvironment to engineer tumor cells with artificial DNA receptors through a pH (low) insertion peptide, which permits controlled recruitment of fluorescent amplifiers via a hybridization chain reaction. The acidosis‐responsive amplification cascade enables significant fluorescence enhancement in tumors with a reduced background signal in normal tissues, leading to improved signal‐to‐background ratio. These results highlight the utility of MAT‐amp for in situ imaging of the microenvironment characterized by pH disequilibrium.
Umpolung AlaB Reagents for the Synthesis of Non‐Proteogenic Amino Acids, Peptides and Proteins**
Authors: Zhu Feng , Miller Eric , Powell Wyatt C. , Johnson Kelly , Beggs Alexander , Evenson Garrett E. , Walczak Maciej A.
Published: June 2022

Non‐proteogenic amino acids and functionalized peptides are important motifs in modern drug discovery. Here we report that AlaB can serve as universal building blocks in the synthesis of a diverse collection of modified amino acids, peptides, and proteins. First, we develop the synthesis of AlaB from redox‐active esters of aspartic acid resulting in a series of β‐boronoalanine derivatives. Next, we show that AlaB can be integrated into automated oligopeptide solid‐phase synthesis. AlaB is compatible with common transformations used in preparative peptide chemistry such as native chemical ligation and radical desulfurization as showcased by total synthesis of AlaB‐containing ubiquitin. Furthermore, AlaB reagents participate in Pd‐catalyzed reactions, including C−C cross‐couplings and macrocyclizations. Taken together, AlaB synthons are practical reagents to access modified peptides, proteins, and in the synthesis of cyclic/stapled peptides.
Bioinspired and Ligand‐Regulated Unnatural Prenylation and Geranylation of Oxindoles with Isoprene under Pd Catalysis
Authors: Zhao Chao‐Yang , Liu Ying‐Ying , Zhang Xiang‐Xin , He Gu‐Cheng , Liu Heng , Ji Ding‐Wei , Hu Yan‐Cheng , Chen Qing‐An
Published: June 2022

In nature, prenylation and geranylation are two important metabolic processes for the creation of hemiterpenoids and monoterpenoids under enzyme catalysis. Herein, we have demonstrated bioinspired unnatural prenylation and geranylation of oxindoles using the basic industrial feedstock isoprene through ligand regulation under Pd catalysis. Pentenylated oxindoles (with C5 added) were attained with high selectivity when using a bisphosphine ligand, whereas upon switching to a monophosphine ligand, selectivity toward geranylated oxindoles (with C10 added) was achieved. Moreover, the head‐to‐head product could be further isomerized to an internal skipped diene under Pd−H catalysis. No stoichiometric by‐product was formed in the process.
Isolierung eines Arsendiradikaloids mit einem zyklischen C2As2‐Gerüst
Authors: Steffenfauseweh Henric , Vishnevskiy Yury V. , Neumann Beate , Stammler Hans‐Georg , Andrada Diego M. , Ghadwal Rajendra S.
Published: June 2022

In diesem Artikel berichten wir über die Synthese, Charakterisierung und Reaktivitätsstudien des ersten zyklischen C2As2‐Diradikaloids {(IPr)CAs}2 (6) (IPr = C{N(Dipp)CH}2; Dipp = 2,6‐iPr2C6H3). Die Umsetzung von (IPr)CH2 (1) mit AsCl3 ergibt das Lewis‐Addukt {(IPr)CH2}AsCl3 (2). Verbindung 2 geht schrittweise eine Dehydrochlorierung ein, die über {(IPr)CH}AsCl2 (3) zu {(IPr)CAsCl}2 (5 a) oder [{(IPr)CAs}2Cl]OTf (5 b) führt. Die Reduktion von 5 a (oder 5 b) mit Magnesiumspänen ergibt 6 als roten kristallinen Feststoff in 90 %iger Ausbeute. Verbindung 6, die einen planaren C2As2‐Ring aufweist, ist diamagnetisch und zeigt gut aufgelöste NMR‐Signale. DFT‐Berechnungen zeigen einen Singulett‐Grundzustand für 6 mit einer kleinen Singulett‐Triplett‐Energielücke von 8.7 kcal mol−1. Der diradikalische Charakter von 6 beträgt 20% (CASSCF, Complete Active Space Self Consistent Field) und 28% (DFT). Die Reaktionen von 6 mit (PhSe)2 bzw. Fe2(CO)9 führen zur Bildung von {(IPr)CAs(SePh)}2 (7) bzw. {(IPr)CAs}2Fe(CO)4 (8).
Isolation of an Arsenic Diradicaloid with a Cyclic C2As2‐Core
Authors: Steffenfauseweh Henric , Vishnevskiy Yury V. , Neumann Beate , Stammler Hans‐Georg , Andrada Diego M. , Ghadwal Rajendra S.
Published: June 2022

Herein, we report on the synthesis, characterization, and reactivity studies of the first cyclic C2As2‐diradicaloid {(IPr)CAs}2 (6) (IPr = C{N(Dipp)CH}2; Dipp = 2,6‐iPr2C6H3). Treatment of (IPr)CH2 (1) with AsCl3 affords the Lewis adduct {(IPr)CH2}AsCl3 (2). Compound 2 undergoes stepwise dehydrochlorination to yield {(IPr)CH}AsCl2 (3) and {(IPr)CAsCl}2 (5 a) or [{(IPr)CAs}2Cl]OTf (5 b). Reduction of 5 a (or 5 b) with magnesium turnings gives 6 as a red crystalline solid in 90% yield. Compound 6 featuring a planar C2As2 ring is diamagnetic and exhibits well resolved NMR signals. DFT calculations reveal a singlet ground state for 6 with a small singlet‐triplet energy gap of 8.7 kcal mol−1. The diradical character of 6 amounts to 20% (CASSCF, complete active space self consistent field) and 28% (DFT). Treatments of 6 with (PhSe)2 and Fe2(CO)9 give rise to {(IPr)CAs(SePh)}2 (7) and {(IPr)CAs}2Fe(CO)4 (8), respectively.
Effects of different polyolefin copolymers on properties of melt mixed polypropylene blends
Authors: Doan Thi Thu Loan , Müller Michael Thomas , Nguyen Hoang M.
Published: June 2022

Polypropylene (PP) is an affordable plastic commodity but lacks massive use in engineering applications given its limited mechanical properties including significantly low impact strength. In this work, three polyolefin‐based copolymers including ethylene‐octene random block (Engage, E), ethylene‐octene multi‐block (Infuse, I), and ethylene‐propylene copolymer (Versify, V) were blended with PP. It was found that the V copolymer was miscible while the rests were immiscible in the PP matrix. Mechanical testings indicated that the addition of the 20% E and 20% I copolymers significantly enhanced the impact toughness of PP up to 83% and 108% at −20°C, respectively. At a higher temperature such as 25°C, the impact toughness of the PP/E20 and PP/I20 were 400 and 571%, respectively. The enhancement of the PP impact toughness was governed by the particle size of the added immiscible copolymers. Experimental results also revealed that the good compatibility between PP and copolymers has an insignificant influence on the mechanical properties of PP while the essence of added copolymer plays a key role instead. The findings from this work provide significant insights into the design of PP‐based products with desirable properties to satisfy requirements demanded by engineering applications.
Medication use during pregnancy among women with congenital physical disabilities
Authors: García Michelle Huezo , Petersen Julie M. , Parker Samantha E. , Rubenstein Eric , Werler Martha M.
Published: June 2022

Background

Medication use during pregnancy is common, with up to 90% of pregnant women taking at least one medication. Women with congenital physical disabilities often report co‐occurring conditions during pregnancy that may warrant pharmaceutical treatment, however, research is limited. We aim to describe medication use during pregnancy including: pain, psychotropic, and antibacterial medication, among women with and without congenital physical disabilities.

Methods

We used data from the Slone Birth Defects Study (1976–2015), a case–control study that collected information on pre‐pregnancy health conditions and exposures among participating mothers. Women with congenital physical disabilities (n = 132) included women with spina bifida, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, limb deficiencies, and other skeletal/connective tissue conditions and were matched by interview year and study site to women without congenital physical disabilities (n = 528). Proportions and difference in proportions for each medication were compared between groups. Simple proportions were also calculated for duration and multiple medication use variables.

Results

Women with congenital physical disabilities more frequently reported use of pain (acetaminophen and opioids), psychotropic (antidepressants), and antibacterial medications during pregnancy. Women with congenital physical disabilities used pain and psychotropic medications for longer, frequent durations, and more frequently reported haven taken multiple medications during pregnancy.

Conclusion

Women with congenital physical disabilities report higher medication use during pregnancy compared to women without physical disabilities. Patterns may be attributable to co‐occurring conditions or increased risk of pregnancy complications in this population. Further research is needed to describe the patterns of medication use for clinical decisions regarding treatment of pregnant women with disabilities.
Lifestyle treatment in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: predictors of weight loss and dropout
Authors: Jiskoot Geranne , Dietz de Loos Alexandra , Timman Reinier , Beerthuizen Annemerle , Laven Joop , Busschbach Jan
Published: June 2022

Background

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects 5%–10% of women in their reproductive years. Most women with PCOS struggle with obesity during their entire life. Knowing which determinants contribute to a successful lifestyle change is important to optimize treatment options for women with PCOS.

Objective

This analysis of secondary outcome measures aimed to determine factors of ≥5% weight loss and dropout in all arms of the study and separately in the lifestyle intervention (LI) and control (care as usual [CAU]) groups.

Study design

Women diagnosed with PCOS (N = 183) and a Body Mass Index (BMI) above 25 kg/m2 were included. Participants were assigned to (1) 20 lifestyle sessions involving cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), (2) 20 lifestyle sessions involving CBT with additional short message service (SMS), or (3) to control (CAU). A generalized linear regression was performed to identify determinants of ≥5% weight loss. Logistic regression was performed to identify determinants of dropout. All models were corrected by including baseline weight as a covariate.

Results

LI (OR 4.906, p = .001) was associated with ≥5% weight loss, while higher depression scores (OR 0.549, p = .013) had a negative association. Restraint eating was a positive factor for ≥5% weight loss in LI but a negative in CAU. Higher baseline weight (OR 1.033, p = .006), LI with SMS (OR 4.424, p = .002), and higher levels of androstenedione (OR 1.167, p = .026) were associated with dropout.

Conclusions

Depression and eating behavior were associated with ≥5% weight loss. Women with PCOS should be screened for depression and eating behavior before a LI.
Unraveling the mystery of white matter in depression: A translational perspective on recent advances
Authors: Abraham Mate , Mundorf Annakarina , Brodmann Katja , Freund Nadja
Published: June 2022

Background

Numerous cortical and subcortical structures have been studied extensively concerning alterations of their integrity as well as their neurotransmitters in depression. However, connections between these structures have received considerably less attention.

Objective

This systematic review presents results from recent neuroimaging as well as neuropathologic studies conducted on humans and other mammals. It aims to provide evidence for impaired white matter integrity in individuals expressing a depressive phenotype.

Methods

A systematic database search in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines was conducted to identify imaging and postmortem studies conducted on humans with a diagnosis of major depressive disorder, as well as on rodents and primates subjected to an animal model of depression.

Results

Alterations are especially apparent in frontal gyri, as well as in structures establishing interhemispheric connectivity between frontal regions. Translational neuropathological findings point to alterations in oligodendrocyte density and morphology, as well as to alterations in the expression of genes related to myelin synthesis. An important role of early life adversities in the development of depressive symptoms and white matter alterations across species is thereby revealed. Data indicating that stress can interfere with physiological myelination patterns is presented. Altered myelination is most notably present in regions that are subject to maturation during the developmental stage of exposure to adversities.

Conclusion

Translational studies point to replicable alterations in white matter integrity in subjects suffering from depression across multiple species. Impaired white matter integrity is apparent in imaging as well as neuropathological studies. Future studies should focus on determining to what extent influencing white matter integrity is able to improve symptoms of depression in animals as well as humans.
Business, biodiversity and ecosystem services: Evidence from large‐scale survey data
Authors: Wagner Marcus
Published: June 2022

This paper analyses data from a large‐scale survey on corporate action to support biodiversity and ecosystem services undertaken by firms of all sizes and across manufacturing industries. The analysis focuses on Germany as the largest economy by GDP in the European Union and analyses the uptake of activities directly aimed at protecting biodiversity and ecosystem services compared to the uptake of other environmental protection activities. It furthermore investigates how activity and tool adoption as well as risk assessments vary with firm size and across industries, and with implementing environmental management systems. The analysis finds tensions between risk perception and activities pursued for biodiversity protection, largely because firms shy away from substantive action. It reveals that smaller and medium‐sized firms are less active and that environmental management systems are not conducive to corporate activities in support of biodiversity and ecosystem services.