bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Light‐Fueled Hydrogel Actuators with Controlled Deformation and Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Chen Pengyu , Ruan Qiushi , Nasseri Rasool , Zhang Hanning , Xi Xufeng , Xia Huan , Xu Gang , Xie Qian , Yi Chengjie , Sun ZhengMing , Shahsavan Hamed , Zhang Wei
Published: October 2022

Hydrogel actuators have shown great promise in underwater robotic applications as they can generate controllable shape transformations upon stimulation due to their ability to absorb and release water reversibly. Herein, a photoresponsive anisotropic hydrogel actuator is developed from poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) and gold‐decorated carbon nitride (Au/g‐C3N4) nanoparticles. Carbon nitride nanoparticles endow hydrogel actuators with photocatalytic properties, while their reorientation and mobility driven by the electrical field provide anisotropic properties to the surrounding network. A variety of light‐fueled soft robotic functionalities including controllable and programmable shape‐change, gripping, and locomotion is elicited. A responsive flower‐like photocatalytic reactor is also fabricated, for water splitting, which maximizes its energy‐harvesting efficiency, that is, hydrogen generation rate of 1061.82 µmol g−1 h−1, and the apparent quantum yield of 8.55% at 400 nm, by facing its light‐receiving area adaptively towards the light. The synergy between photoactive and photocatalytic properties of this hydrogel portrays a new perspective for the design of underwater robotic and photocatalytic devices.
Wetting Ridge‐Guided Directional Water Self‐Transport
Authors: Wang Lingxiao , Yin Kai , Deng Qinwen , Huang Qiaoqiao , He Jun , Duan Ji‐An
Published: October 2022

Directional water self‐transport plays a crucial role in diverse applications such as biosensing and water harvesting. Despite extensive progress, current strategies for directional water self‐transport are restricted to a short self‐driving distance, single function, and complicated fabrication methods. Here, a lubricant‐infused heterogeneous superwettability surface (LIHSS) for directional water self‐transport is proposed on polyimide (PI) film through femtosecond laser direct writing and lubricant infusion. By tuning the parameters of the femtosecond laser, the wettability of PI film can be transformed into superhydrophobic or superhydrophilic. After trapping water droplets on the superhydrophilic surface and depositing excess lubricant, the asymmetrical wetting ridge drives water droplets by an attractive capillary force on the LIHSS. Notably, the maximum droplet self‐driving distance can approach ≈3 mm, which is nearly twice as long as the previously reported strategies for direction water self‐transport. Significantly, it is demonstrated that this strategy makes it possible to achieve water self‐transport, anti‐gravity pumping, and chemical microreaction on a tilted LIHSS. This work provides an efficient method to fabricate a promising platform for realizing directional water self‐transport.
Synergistically Enhanced Performance and Reliability of Abrupt Metal‐Oxide Heterojunction Transistor
Authors: Wang Pengfei , Yang Huan , Li Jiye , Zhang Xiaohui , Wang Lei , Xiao Juncheng , Zhao Bin , Zhang Shengdong , Lu Lei
Published: October 2022

The large‐area low‐temperature processing capability and versatile characteristics of amorphous oxide semiconductor (AOS) thin‐film transistors (TFTs) are highly expected to promote the developments of next‐generation displays, 3D integrated circuit (3DIC), flexible chips, and electronics. However, the abundant native defects in AOSs engrain an inherent trade‐off between high mobility and trustworthy stability in AOS TFTs, fundamentally limiting the performance metrics and integration scale of oxide‐based electronics. To surmount this obstacle, the bilayer AOS channel is highly expected to combine the merits of diversified AOSs, while the efficiency of such an AOS “heterojunction” is debatable. This work systematically compares the TFTs based on amorphous InGaZnO (a‐IGZO), amorphous InZnO (a‐IZO), and a‐IZO/a‐IGZO bilayer. The active cation interaction between metal‐oxide semiconductors gives rise to a mixed AOS layer rather than a heterojunction channel, corresponding to moderate performance metrics. Such a spontaneous cation interdiffusion is effectively prevented using a dense metal‐oxide dielectric interlayer, aluminum oxide (AlOx). The sharpened interface effectively forms an abrupt metal‐oxide heterojunction, while the electron can still tunnel through the ultrathin AlOx to create a quantum well of 2D electron gas (2DEG). The overall performance and reliability of multilayer AOS TFT are synergistically enhanced using the proposed abrupt metal‐oxide heterojunction architecture.
Auxin‐based herbicide program for weed control in auxin resistant soybean
Authors: Amajioyi Joy , Nleya Thandiwe , Reicks Graig , Moriles‐Miller Janet , Clay David , Clay Sharon
Published: October 2022

Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] cultivars resistant to synthetic auxin herbicides have provided another mode of action for the postemergence broadleaf weed control. This field study was conducted at three South Dakota locations [Northeast, NERF; east‐central, ARF; and Southeast, SERF) in 2019 and two locations (ARF and SERF) in 2020. The Enlist E3 and Roundup Ready 2 Xtend cultivars were planted at three dates (early, mid‐, and late season) to examine weed control, agronomic characteristics, nodulation, and yield. Preemergence (PRE) treatment was flumioxazin + metribuzin + S‐metolachlor + glyphosate + pendimethalin. Two postemergence (POST) treatments, based on cultivar, were compared with PRE‐only. The PRE‐only treatment had numerous grasses {including green foxtail [Setaria viridis (L.) P. Beauv.] and yellow foxtail [S. pumila (Poir.) Roem. & Schult.], volunteer corn (Zea mays L.), barnyard grass [Echinochola crus‐galli (L.) Beauv.], large crabgrass [Digitaria sanguinalis (L.) Scop.], woolly cupgrass [Eriochloa villosa (Thunb.) Kunth]} and broadleaf weeds (including redroot pigweed [Amaranthus retroflexus L.], common lambsquarters [Chenopodium album L.], waterhemp [Amaranthus rudis Sauer]) with high density and biomass. POST treatments controlled most of the broadleaf species, although some grasses remained. Yields were similar within a location and year, although differences occurred among planting dates. In 2019, planting date did not influence final yield at ARF (average yield 3,084 kg ha−1). Yield was greatest for the early (NERF) and mid‐planting dates (NERF and SERF) compared with late‐season planting. In 2020, dry conditions occurred, and yields at ARF and SERF were lowest for the late‐season plantings (ranging from 37 to 73% lower depending on cultivar) compared with the early season planting. In 2020, dicamba + glyphosate treatment of the Xtend cultivar had 10% (ARF) and 20% (SERF) greater yield than the acifluorfen + clethodim treatment.
A rare homozygous missense GDF2 (BMP9) mutation causing PAH in siblings: Does BMP10 status contribute?
Authors: Upton Paul , Richards Susan , Bates Angela , Niederhoffer Karen Y. , Morrell Nicholas W. , Christian Susan
Published: October 2022

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a disease characterized by pathological remodeling of the pulmonary vasculature causing elevated pulmonary artery pressures and ultimately, right ventricular failure from chronic pressure overload. Heterozygous pathogenic GDF2 (encoding bone morphogenetic protein 9 (BMP9)) variants account for some (>1%) adult PAH cases. Only three pediatric PAH cases, harboring homozygous or compound heterozygous variants, are reported to date. Ultra‐rare pathogenic GDF2 variants are reported in hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia and overlapping disorders characterized by telangiectasias and arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). Here, we present two siblings with PAH homozygous for a GDF2 mutation that impairs BMP9 proprotein processing and reduces growth factor domain availability. We confirm an absence of measurable plasma BMP9 whereas BMP10 levels are detectable and serum‐dependent endothelial BMP activity is evident. This contrasts with the absence of activity which we reported in two children with homozygous pathogenic GDF2 nonsense variants, one with PAH and one with pulmonary AVMs, both with telangiectasias, suggesting loss of BMP10 and endothelial BMP activity in the latter may precipitate telangiectasia development. An absence of phenotype in related heterozygous GDF2 variant carriers suggests incomplete penetrance in PAH and AVM‐related diseases, indicating that additional somatic and/or genetic modifiers may be necessary for disease precipitation.
Synthesis of Ferrocene−Cyclodextrin, Anthracene−Cyclodextrin, and Pyrene−Cyclodextrin [2]Rotaxane Conjugates and Their Intercomponent Behavior as Observed in NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Tumaneng John Vincent , Matulac Andrea Louise , Reyes Jude , Baldovino Amyel Joseph , Lumba Joseph , Yu Gilbert
Published: October 2022

Ferrocene, anthracene, and pyrene‐terminated alkynylated moieties were reacted with azidized beta‐cyclodextrin derivatives to form supramolecular structures under various conditions. While initial experiments concerning mono‐azidized beta‐cyclodextrin proved difficult to isolate and have limited solubility, their reaction with peracetylated mono‐azidized beta‐cyclodextrin was more facile. Introduction and threading of the macrocycle, dibenzo‐24‐crown‐8 (DB24C8), allowed for [2]rotaxane synthesis. These compounds were characterized by infrared spectroscopy (IR), nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), and mass spectrometry (MS). Among the compounds formed, the ferrocene‐capped species showed promising host‐guest inclusion complexation with the cyclodextrin cavity.
Cobalt‐Catalyzed Deaminative Amino‐ and Alkoxycarbonylation of Aryl Trialkylammonium Salts Promoted by Visible Light
Authors: Veatch Alexander M. , Liu Shubin , Alexanian Erik J.
Published: October 2022

Catalytic carbonylations of aryl electrophiles via C(sp2)−N cleavage remains a significant challenge. Herein, we demonstrate an aminocarbonylation of aniline‐derived trialkylammonium salts promoted by visible light with a simple cobalt catalyst. The reaction proceeds under mild conditions suitable for late‐stage functionalization and is amenable to telescoped carbonylations directly from anilines. A range of alkylamines are successful partners, and alkoxycarbonylation is also demonstrated. Mechanistic studies and DFT calculations support a novel mechanism for catalytic carbonylations of aryl electrophiles involving a key visible light‐induced carbonyl photodissociation.
A Facile Structural Isomerization‐Induced 3D Spatial D‐A Interlocked Network for Achieving NIR‐II Phototheranostic Agents
Authors: Feng Lina , Li Chunbin , Liu Lingxiu , Chen Xin , Jiang Guoyu , Wang Jianguo , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: October 2022

The performances of second near‐infrared (NIR‐II) organic phototheranostic agents (OPTAs) depend on both molecular structure and molecular packing when used as nanoparticles (NPs). Herein, we proposed a facile structural isomerization‐induced 3D spatial donor (D)‐acceptor (A) interlocked network for achieving NIR‐II OPTAs. Two isomers, 4MNVDPP and 6MNVDPP were synthesized and formulated into NPs. 6MNVDPP, which has a larger electrostatic potential difference, exhibits a compact 3D spatial D‐A interlocked network in the crystal form, while 4MNVDPP forms 2D D‐D type J‐aggregates. Thus, 6MNVDPP NPs show red‐shifted NIR absorption and larger molar extinction coefficient than 4MNVDPP NPs. Thanks to the typical NIR‐II emission, superior photothermal‐stability, high photothermal conversion efficiency (89 %) and reactive oxygen species production capacity, 6MNVDPP NPs exhibit outstanding NIR‐II tiny capillary vasculature/tumor imaging ability and synergistic photothermal/photodynamic anti‐cancer effect in vivo.
Mesoionic N‐Heterocyclic Imines as Super Nucleophiles in Catalytic Couplings of Amides with CO2
Authors: Das Arpan , Sarkar Pallavi , Maji Subir , Pati Swapan K. , Mandal Swadhin K.
Published: October 2022

An extended class of stable mesoionic N‐heterocyclic imines (mNHIs), containing a highly polarized exocyclic imine moiety, were synthesized. The calculated proton affinities (PA) and experimentally determined Tolman electronic parameters (TEPs) reveal that these synthesized mNHIs have the highest basicity and donor ability among NHIs reported so far. The superior nucleophilicity of newly designed mNHIs was utilized in devising a strategy to incorporate CO2as a bridging unit under reductive conditions to couple inert primary amides. This strategy was further extended to hetero‐couplings between amide and amine using CO2. These hitherto unknown catalytic transformations were introduced in the diversification of various biologically active drug molecules under metal‐free conditions. The underlying mechanism was explored by performing a series of control experiments, characterizing key intermediates using spectroscopic and crystallographic techniques.
o‐Quinodimethane Atropisomers: Enantioselective Synthesis and Stereospecific Transformation
Authors: Dong Jianyang , Ostertag Andreas , Sparr Christof
Published: October 2022

o‐Quinodimethanes have remarkable utility as reactive intermediates in Diels–Alder reactions, enabling significantly accelerated routes to complex polycyclic compounds. The discovery of different discrete precursors to thermally generateo‐quinodimethanes thereby greatly augmented their availability and versatility. However, due to the required high temperatures and the immense reactivity ofo‐quinodimethanes, stereoselectivity to afford isomerically defined products still constitutes a critical challenge. Herein, we describe the accessibility of atropisomerico‐quinodimethanes, the enantioselective synthesis of their precursors, their remarkable configurational stability and the stereospecific transformation by the benzannulation of dienophiles. A catalyst‐stereocontrolled [2+2+2] cycloaddition, the generation ofo‐quinodimethane atropisomers and ensuing stereospecific Diels–Alder reactions enabled enantioselectivities through these transient intermediates with of up to 96 : 4 e.r.
Facile Synthesis of Uranium Complexes with a Pendant Borane Lewis Acid and 1,2‐Insertion of CO into a U−N Bond
Authors: Su Wei , Rajeshkumar Thayalan , Xiang Libo , Maron Laurent , Ye Qing
Published: October 2022

In this contribution, we illustrate uranium complexes bearing a pendant borate (i.e. 1 and 2) or a pendant borane (i.e. 3 and 4) moiety via reaction of the highly strained uranacycle I with various 3‐coordinate boranes. Complexes 3 and 4 represent the first examples of uranium complexes with a pendant borane Lewis acid. Moreover, complex 3 was capable of activation of CO, delivering a new CO activation mode, and an abnormal CO 1,2‐insertion pathway into a U−N bond. The importance of the pendant borane moiety was confirmed by the controlled experiments.
Experimental and computational studies of polycarboxylate dispersant effect on the properties of low‐rank coal water slurries
Authors: Wu Huijun , Lv Dongmei , Nie Yunhao , Jiang Tingao , Li Jing , Gong Shuwen , Yan Hui
Published: October 2022

The disadvantages of low‐rank coal in the preparation of coal water slurry (CWS) are well known, but the synthesis of suitable dispersants is a promising solution. Polycarboxylate dispersant (PC) is expected to be an efficient CWS dispersant due to its flexible and controllable structure. In this study, a series of binary PC dispersants were synthesized by controlling the ratio of acrylic acid (AA) to sodium styrene sulfonate (SSS), initiator fraction, and temperature, and the optimal PC was selected based on the apparent viscosity of 72# CWS at 100 s−1. The properties of 72# CWS were studied: This CWS exhibited shear‐thinning behavior, >14 static stability, and >55 wt% maximum solid loading, indicating the satisfactory performance of the optimal PC. The experimental results (including adsorption tests and zeta potential measurement) and molecular dynamics simulation showed that PC was effectively adsorbed on the surface of the coal particles by a horizontal multipoint adsorption mode, mainly through the interaction between the hydrophobic groups of the PC molecule and the hydrophobic areas of the coal particles. The hydrophilicity of the coal particles was therefore improved and the stability of their hydration layer was also enhanced, which accounted for the good static stability of 72# CWS. The amount of PC adsorption and the improved absolute zeta potential were associated with the decent properties of 72# CWS. This study is significant for promoting the molecular design of CWS dispersants based on their adsorption behavior.
Synthesis of acid anhydride‐modified flexible epoxy resins and enhancement of impact resistance in the epoxy composites
Authors: Kim Hye Jin , Kim Hyeon‐Gook , Seo Bongkuk , Lim Choong‐Sun
Published: October 2022

Epoxy resins are key materials used in various applications, including coatings, adhesives, and composites. Tougheners, such as nanoparticles, soft polymers, elastomeric polyurethanes, and core/shell particles, have been widely applied to compensate for the brittleness of the epoxy matrix and to enhance the impact resistance. Modifying epoxy resin by reacting it with a flexible component is one of the representative methods to overcome the weakness of cured epoxy polymers upon impact. For introducing flexible parts, we synthesized three types of epoxy‐modified resins by reacting acid anhydride with glycidol, followed by reaction with bisphenol [F, S, or J] glycidyl ether to produce flexible modified epoxy resins. Mechanical tests, such as flexural strength and impact resistance tests, were performed by adding various amounts of the synthesized resin to the epoxy composites. The results of these tests suggest that the modified resins were effective in improving the toughness of the epoxy matrix.
Multi‐loop networked control system design subject to interchange attack
Authors: Kazemy Ali , Liu Jinrong , Lam James
Published: October 2022

This paper deals with the design problem of multiloop networked control system (NCS) under interchange attack. This is a new type of attack where the transmitted data are swapped between different control loops which can be more destructive than other types of attacks, such as denial‐of‐service (DoS) attack. In this context, multiple sampled‐data control loops are first considered that use a shared communication network for data transmission. Then, the overall closed‐loop systems with the proposed attack are formulated in a unified stochastic delay system. The proposed framework is also applicable to DoS attack. Based on Lyapunov–Krasovskii theory and stochastic analysis techniques, some conditions in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) are derived for the
control design problem. Finally, two inverted pendula are utilized for simulation to show the effectiveness of the proposed method. Also, the effects of DoS attack and interchange attack are compared.
Early spring droughts in Central Europe: Indications for atmospheric and oceanic drivers
Authors: Haslinger Klaus , Mayer Konrad
Published: October 2022

Early Springs (ES), March and April in particular, have been extremely dry in Central Europe in recent years, particularly from 2003 onwards. This is causing substantial impacts, foremost to agriculture, which is heavily dependent on sufficient moisture supply at the beginning growing season. However, the drivers of ES droughts are still not well understood. In this article, we investigate the temporal evolution of ES precipitation anomalies for the period 1860–2020 over Central Europe and the driving large‐scale atmospheric circulation conditions. Two periods of ES drought conditions stand out, the most recent period (2005–2020) and another one during the middle of the 20th century (1926–1950) which show sustained negative precipitation anomalies in ES with only a few exceptions. The positive phase of the East Atlantic/Western Russia surface air pressure patterns is found as the main driver of ES precipitation deficit. Further analyses reveals an important role of positive western Atlantic sea surface temperature anomalies. These drive a Rossby wave response, resembling the positive phase East Atlantic/Western Russia pattern. Although the given evidence points towards internal multidecadal North Atlantic variability driving the warming patterns, anthropogenic warming from enhanced greenhouse gas emissions cannot be discarded as additional forcing of the recent ES drought period.
Deep reinforcement learning‐based ordering mechanism for performance optimization in multi‐echelon supply chains
Authors: Kurian Dony S. , Pillai V. Madhusudanan , Raut Akash , Gautham J.
Published: October 2022

The need for self‐adaptive and intelligent supply chain systems is essential to meet the challenges of the current global markets. Despite the recent breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, literature still lacks the application of state‐of‐the‐art methods to optimize the performance of supply chain ordering management problems. Thus, this paper proposes a relatively new Deep Reinforcement Learning‐based Ordering Mechanism (DRLOM) for multi‐echelon linear supply chain systems. Initially, the supply chain ordering management problem is formulated as an agent‐based reinforcement learning model and, afterwards, solved using a recently developed policy‐based algorithm called proximal policy optimization. The proposed approach (DRLOM) aids the assumed supply chain echelons, such as the Retailer, the Wholesaler, the Distributor and the Factory, to learn the optimal/near‐optimal dynamic strategies for inventory ordering systems. The experimental results also validate that the proposed approach efficiently minimizes the system‐wide total accumulated inventory costs under different problem instances than other ordering heuristics and evolutionary computation methods. Throughout this paper, benchmark findings from the literature are used to evaluate the performance of the proposed approach. Furthermore, limitations of the earlier works are addressed through this paper and contribute to the supply chain ordering management literature.
Bewertung der Nachweiskonzepte nach EC7 für Baugrubenwände in Sand auf Grundlage der Finite‐Elemente‐Methode
Authors: Seibel Elisabeth , Vrettos Christos , Hettler Achim
Published: October 2022

Der aktuelle Entwurf der neuen Fassung der EN 1997 unterscheidet für numerische Berechnungen von Stützwänden zwischen Nachweisverfahren mit Ansatz der Teilsicherheitsfaktoren auf die resultierenden Beanspruchungen oder auf die Scherparameter des Bodens. Hierzu wurden umfassende numerische Studien auf Grundlage der Finite‐Elemente‐Methode für repräsentative Systemgeometrien durchgeführt und die Ergebnisse kritisch beurteilt. Systeme mit unterschiedlichen Randbedingungen hinsichtlich Stützung, Grundwasserstand, Baugrubentiefe und Einbindetiefe wurden betrachtet. Für alle Systeme wurden Schnittgrößen ermittelt. Insgesamt zeigte sich, dass beide Nachweismethoden ähnliche Werte für Querkräfte und Biegemomente entlang der Wand liefern. Es wurden die zwei Varianten für die Nachweismethode mit Abminderung der Scherparameter des Bodens verglichen; beide Varianten ergaben untereinander abweichende Ergebnisse aufgrund der unterschiedlichen Ausgangszustände mit einer A‐priori‐Abminderung der Scherparameter des Bodens einerseits und einer Abminderung nur in maßgebenden Berechnungsphasen andererseits. Ein Vergleich mit dem gängigen analytischen Verfahren nach Blum gemäß den Empfehlungen der EAB ergab, dass in der FEM aufgrund anderer Spannungsverteilungen entlang der Wand andere Einbindelängen erforderlich sind, um den Nachweis des Fußauflagers zu erfüllen. Die Einspannwirkung in den FEM‐Berechnungen fällt geringer aus, als dies bei einer analytischen Berechnung nach Blum der Fall ist.
Aktionsplan zur modellbasierten Baulogistikplanung – Die Implementierung BIM‐basierter Planungsmethoden in die Fachdisziplin Baulogistik erfordert Handlungsbedarf
Authors: Placzek Gerrit , Barking Lars , Troitzsch Hilmar , Schwerdtner Patrick
Published: October 2022

Seit November 2020 haben sich die Zeppelin Rental GmbH und das Institut für Bauwirtschaft und Baubetrieb der TU Braunschweig in gemeinsamer Forschungsarbeit der Fragestellung gewidmet, wie sich baulogistische Planungsprozesse für Hochbauten durch die BIM‐Methode verändern und durch die Nutzung digitaler Bauwerksmodelle optimiert werden können. Auf Grundlage der erzielten Forschungsergebnisse ist Ende Juni 2022 dieser Aktionsplan entstanden. Der Plan sieht erforderliche Handlungsschritte vor, die zur Implementierung der modellbasierten Baulogistikplanung zu berücksichtigen sind.
Radio frequency ablation for the intrauterine treatment of giant placental chorioangioma associated with fetal compromise: A case report
Authors: Zhao Bingyi , Yin Lu , Chu Wei , Wang Fangna , Huo Ping , Gao Jian
Published: October 2022

Giant placental chorioangiomas associated with fetal hyperdynamic circulation complications are rare to see. Here, we summarized a case of giant placental chorioangioma associated with fetal anemia and heart failure treated by radiofrequency ablation (RFA) combined with cordocentesis and intrauterine transfusion. The sonographic appearance of the placental chorioangioma was atypical which was isoechoic with unclear boundary. RFA was performed successfully at 27 weeks of gestation, when the chorioangioma has increased to 17.0 × 10.6 × 12.3 cm3. Unfortunately, intrauterine fetal demise was found on the first day after operation. After induction of labor, it was pathologically confirmed as placental chorioangioma.
A retrospective case series of electroconvulsive therapy in the management of depression and suicidal symptoms in adolescents
Authors: Chen Xiaolu , Fu Yixiao , Zou Qianhong , Zhang Yiting , Qin Xiaoyue , Tian Yu , Yan Yu , Chen Qibin , Zou Lei , Zhao Bangshu , Li Xiao
Published: October 2022

Objective

Major depressive disorder (MDD) with suicidal symptoms is common in adolescents. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is highly effective in the treatment of MDD. We have described its use and outcome in a case series of adolescents with depression and suicidal symptoms receiving ECT.

Methods

We analyzed 362 adolescents aged from 12 to 17 who had received ECT between year 2015 and 2021. A total of 278 subjects were found to meet the inclusion criteria, where depressive symptoms were assessed by HDRS and suicidal symptoms were assessed by HDRS item 3. Their sociodemographic, clinical, and treatment information were retrieved through these records for this study.

Results

The mean ± SD age of subjects was 15.41 ± 1.50 years and male sex was 14.7% (n = 41). Comorbid diagnoses were present in 104 patients (37.4%). The ECT sessions ranged from 6 to 12 times. All the patients took antidepressants, with sertraline (n = 182; 65.5%) being the most widely used. Majority of patients also received benzodiazepines. ECT was significantly effective in adolescents with depression and suicidal symptoms in evaluation by HDRS, HDRS item 3, CGI‐S (p < .001) pre/post‐ECT. The response rate of MDD patients was 52%, with suicidal ideation (SI) at 49%, and 54% in MDD with suicide attempt (SA). The change of CGI‐S scores showed no significant differences between various subgroups of sex and comorbid (p>.05), but there were significant differences between subgroups of suicidal symptoms (p < .001). ECT was generally safe with subjective memory complaint (n = 189, 68.0%), headache (n = 150, 54.0%), body pain (n = 28, 10.1%), delirium (n = 95, 34.2%), and nausea (n = 31, 11.2%) as possible side effects following ECT.

Conclusion

In this study, ECT was found to decrease depressive and suicidal symptoms in adolescents, and the side effect was acceptable. ECT showed better outcome for MDD with SA compared to MDD with SI.
Pitstop‐2 and its novel derivative RVD‐127 disrupt global cell dynamics and nuclear pores integrity by direct interaction with small GTPases
Authors: Liashkovich Ivan , Stefanello Sílvio Terra , Vidyadharan Reshma , Haufe Günter , Erofeev Alexander , Gorelkin Peter V. , Kolmogorov Vasilii , Mizdal Caren Rigon , Dulebo Alexander , Bulk Etmar , Kouzel Ian U. , Shahin Victor
Published: October 2022

Clathrin‐mediated endocytosis (CME) is an essential cell physiological process of broad biomedical relevance. Since the recent introduction of Pitstop‐2 as a potent CME inhibitor, we and others have reported on substantial clathrin‐independent inhibitory effects. Herein, we developed and experimentally validated a novel fluorescent derivative of Pitstop‐2, termed RVD‐127, to clarify Pitstop‐2 diverse effects. Using RVD‐127, we were able to trace additional protein targets of Pitstop‐2. Besides inhibiting CME, Pitstop‐2 and RVD‐127 proved to directly and reversibly bind to at least two members of the small GTPase superfamily Ran and Rac1 with particularly high efficacy. Binding locks the GTPases in a guanosine diphosphate (GDP)‐like conformation disabling their interaction with their downstream effectors. Consequently, overall cell motility, mechanics and nucleocytoplasmic transport integrity are rapidly disrupted at inhibitor concentrations well below those required to significantly reduce CME. We conclude that Pitstop‐2 is a highly potent, reversible inhibitor of small GTPases. The inhibition of these molecular switches of diverse crucial signaling pathways, including nucleocytoplasmic transport and overall cell dynamics and motility, clarifies the diversity of Pitstop‐2 activities. Moreover, considering the fundamental importance and broad implications of small GTPases in physiology, pathophysiology and drug development, Pitstop‐2 and RVD‐127 open up novel avenues.
A novel integrated biomarker index for the assessment of hematological responses in MPNs during treatment with hydroxyurea and interferon‐alpha2
Authors: Dam Marc J. B. , Pedersen Rasmus K. , Knudsen Trine A. , Andersen Morten , Ellervik Christina , Larsen Morten Kranker , Kjær Lasse , Skov Vibe , Hasselbalch Hans C. , Ottesen Johnny T.
Published: October 2022

Background

Conventional cytoreductive therapy for patients with chronic Philadelphia‐negative myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) includes hydroxyurea (HU), interferon‐alpha2 (IFN), and anagrelide. HU is worldwide the most used cytoreductive agent, which lowers elevated blood cell counts within days in the large majority of patients. However, some patients may experience rebound cytosis when HU is reduced due to cytopenia, thereby potentially giving rise to fluctuating cell counts during therapy. Such rapid oscillations may be harmful and potentially elicit thrombosis. Treatment with IFN gradually lowers elevated cell counts within weeks and when the dosage is reduced, the cell counts do not rapidly increase but are sustained within the normal range in the large majority of patients. Conventional hematological response criteria are among others based upon single absolute cell count values and do not take into account the relative decreases toward normal for each cell count.

Materials, Methods & Results

Using serial data from the Danish DALIAH trial, we herein describe a novel integrated biomarker index for the assessment of hematological and molecular (JAK2V617F) responses in patients with MPNs during treatment with IFN or HU.

Discussion

This novel tool convincingly displays the superiority of IFN versus HU in normalizing elevated cell counts. Our results need to be validated in larger studies but already now call for studies of the safety and efficacy of combination therapy during the initial treatment of patients with MPNs.
Hsa_circ_0001445 works as a cancer suppressor via miR‐576‐5p/SFRP1 axis regulation in ovarian cancer
Authors: Wu Yuhong , Zhou Jinhua , Li Yan , Shi Xiu , Shen Fangrong , Chen Mingwei , Chen Youguo , Wang Juan
Published: October 2022

Background

Ovarian cancer (OC) has high mortality and morbidity. Circular RNA (circRNA) can deeply impact the tumor occurrence and growth. The pathogenic activity of one particular circRNA, hsa_circ_0001445 (hcR1445), in OC remains unclear and was therefore analyzed in this study.

Methods

Human OC tissue specimens and cell lines (SKOV3, HO8910, and OVCAR8) were used to examine the levels of hcR1445 and the microRNA miR‐576‐5p using polymerase chain reaction. The 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine, flow cytometry, cellular scratch test, CCK‐8, and Transwell migration assays were used to examine the biological activities of hcR1445 and miR‐576‐5p on cell apoptosis, invasion, migration, and proliferation in OC cells. Protein expression of WNT/β‐catenin and secreted frizzled‐related protein 1 (SFRP1) were tested using Western blot analysis. The potential interactions of miR‐576‐5p/SFRP1 and hcR1445/miR‐576‐5p were evaluated using a dual‐luciferase report assay. The effect of hcR1445 on OC growth and metastasis was further determined using an OC tumor xenograft model in vivo.

Results

hcR1445 level was declined in OC cells and tissues. hcR1445 reduced cellular invasion, proliferation, and migration by blocking the ability of miR‐576‐5p to upregulate SFRP1 expression and consequently prohibit WNT/β‐catenin signal transduction. hcR1445 upregulation suppressed OC growth, development, and intraperitoneal metastasis in vivo.

Conclusion

hcR1445 acts an antioncogene by targeting the miR‐576‐5p/SFRP1 axis and blocking OC progression and development. Thus, hcR1445 may be employed as an indicator or a possible therapeutic target in OC patients.
Commercial sexual exploitation of children in Zimbabwe: A threat to human and social development
Authors: Murewanhema Grant , Gwinji Phanuel Tawanda , Gwanzura Chipo , Chitungo Itai , Eghtessadi Rouzeh , Musuka Godfrey , Dzinamarira Tafadzwa
Published: October 2022

Commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC) in child sex work is reportedly rising in Zimbabwe. While children of both sexes are affected, more females than males are forced to engage in sexual acts in exchange for money, food, access to shelter, education or some other gains from adults who control these means of survival and commodities. Drivers of CSEC include socioeconomic factors, negative peer pressure, childhood abuse, the influence of uncensored social media, and, more recently, the economic impact of COVID‐19. Involvement in underage sex work exposes children to severe adversities, such as psychosocial and mental health disorders, physical and biological injuries, venereal diseases and HIV. CSEC is a growing concern for resource‐limited countries, disenfranchises children and robs particularly the girl child of a better future. The worsening socioeconomic landscape in Zimbabwe and the COVID‐19 pandemic have exacerbated the problem. Solving the problem of CSEC requires a multipronged approach that involves stakeholders from several sectors, including public health, education, social services, security and the legal fraternity. There is a need to empower communities, empower civil society and development partners, enhance legal frameworks, provide messaging, education and vocational training, as well as rehabilitative services for affected children and their families. CSEC is a violation of the child's rights and a public health concern that needs to be addressed as a matter of urgency to preserve the next generation's human capital necessary for the sustainable development of Zimbabwe.
Enzymatic Late‐Stage Halogenation of Peptides
Authors: Schnepel Christian , Moritzer Ann‐Christin , Gäfe Simon , Montua Nicolai , Minges Hannah , Nieß Anke , Niemann Hartmut H. , Sewald Norbert
Published: October 2022

The late‐stage site‐selective derivatisation of peptides has many potential applications in structure‐activity relationship studies and postsynthetic modification or conjugation of bioactive compounds. The development of orthogonal methods for C−H functionalisation is crucial for such peptide derivatisation. Among them, biocatalytic methods are increasingly attracting attention. Tryptophan halogenases emerged as valuable catalysts to functionalise tryptophan (Trp), while direct enzyme‐catalysed halogenation of synthetic peptides is yet unprecedented. Here, it is reported that the Trp 6‐halogenase Thal accepts a wide range of amides and peptides containing a Trp moiety. Increasing the sequence length and reaction optimisation made bromination of pentapeptides feasible with good turnovers and a broad sequence scope, while regioselectivity turned out to be sequence dependent. Comparison of X‐ray single crystal structures of Thal in complex with d‐Trp and a dipeptide revealed a significantly altered binding mode for the peptide. The viability of this bioorthogonal approach was exemplified by halogenation of a cyclic RGD peptide.
Additional balloon aortic valvuloplasty to overcome the difficult removal of a self‐expandable transcatheter aortic valve system due to valve infolding
Authors: Yashige Masaki , Zen Kan , Takamatsu Kazuaki , Matoba Satoaki
Published: October 2022

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a well‐established treatment for severe aortic stenosis. Advances in the devices used and operators' technique have reduced the frequency of complications. However, valve infolding is a rare but serious outcome after the implantation of self‐expanding prostheses. We report a case of a successful bailout of a device that was difficult to remove because of valve infolding. TAVR using a 26 mm Evolut PRO+ system (Medtronic) was planned for a 91‐year‐old woman with severe aortic stenosis. After the valve was deployed in a satisfactory position on the second release, the system could not be removed because the nose cone was hooked to the basal frame of the deployed valve. To overcome this situation, an additional balloon was inserted from the contralateral femoral side and inflated, and we extracted the system successfully by pulling out the device while simultaneously deflating the balloon. Postoperative computed tomography revealed valve infolding, which was considered to cause the difficulty in system removal. Infoldings of self‐expandable prostheses should be considered when faced with difficulty in removing the catheter system, and the method elucidated in this case report can be effective to manage it.
Amorphous NiCu Thin Films Sputtered on TiO2 Nanotube Arrays: A Noble‐Metal Free Photocatalyst for Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Pinna Marco , Wei Angeline Wo Weng , Spanu Davide , Will Johannes , Yokosawa Tadahiro , Spiecker Erdmann , Recchia Sandro , Schmuki Patrik , Altomare Marco
Published: October 2022

In this work, NiCu co‐catalysts on TiO2 are studied for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution. NiCu co‐catalyst films are deposited at room temperature by argon plasma sputtering on high aspect‐ratio anodic TiO2 nanotubes. To tune the Ni : Cu atomic ratio, alloys of various compositions were used as sputtering targets. Such co‐catalyst films are found to be amorphous with small nanocrystalline domains. A series of parameters is investigated, i. e., i) Ni : Cu relative ratio in the sputtered films, ii) NiCu film thickness, and iii) thickness of the TiO2 nanotube layers. The highest photocatalytic activity is obtained with 8 μm long TiO2 nanotubes, sputter‐coated with a 10 nm‐thick NiCu films with a 1 : 1 Ni : Cu atomic ratio. This photocatalyst reaches a stable hydrogen evolution rate of 186 μL h−1 cm−2, 4.6 and 3 times higher than that of Ni‐ and Cu‐TiO2, respectively, demonstrating a synergistic co‐catalytic effect of Ni and Cu in the alloy co‐catalyst film.
Ligand‐Functional Groups Induced Tuning MOFs’ 2D into 1D Pore Channels for Pipeline Natural Gas Purification
Authors: Cheng Hongtao , Wang Qian , Bai Junfeng
Published: October 2022

The solvothermal reactions of CoCl2 ⋅ 6H2O, 3,5‐pyridinedicarboxylic acid (H2L) and isonicotinic acid (HL1)/3‐amino isonicotinic acid (HL2)/3‐chloro isonicotinic acid (HL3) successfully led to three tfz‐d topological pillar‐layer [Co4(μ‐F)2(COO)6(NC5H4)4] cluster‐based MOFs, namely, [Co4(μ‐F)2(L)2(L1)2 ⋅ 2DMA] ⋅ DMA ⋅ 2H2O (SNNU‐Bai76, SNNU‐Bai=Shaanxi Normal University Bai's group), [Co4(μ‐F)2(L)2(L2)2 ⋅ 2H2O] ⋅ 2DMA ⋅ 2H2O (SNNU‐Bai77) and [Co4(μ‐F)2(L)2(L3)2 ⋅ 2H2O] ⋅ 2DMF ⋅ 2H2O (SNNU‐Bai78). With the 2D pore channels in SNNU‐Bai76 and SNNU‐Bai77 being tuned to the 1D pore channel in SNNU‐Bai78, C3H8 and C2H6 adsorption uptakes are apparently improved and the IAST selectivities of C3H8/CH4 and C2H6/CH4 almost remain, which indicate that SNNU‐Bai78 may be one potential separation material for the pipeline natural gas purification. These were further confirmed by the breakthrough experiments for the simulated pipeline natural gas (C3H8/C2H6/CH4 : 5/10/85 gas mixture) of three isostructural MOFs. Furthermore, GCMC simulations revealed that due to one of the pore channels blocked by Cl atoms in a couple of 3‐chloro isonicotinic acid with the changed conformation as the pillar, the pore wall of the formed 1D pore channel in SNNU‐Bai78 may interact with the adsorbed C3H8 or C2H6 molecule more strongly, for which more atoms of framework at the new adsorption site will interact with the adsorbed gas molecule by more intermolecular interactions. This was also evidenced by the increased binding energies, being consistent with the tuning of adsorption enthalpies for C3H8 and C2H6 gas molecules, and the reduced C3H8 and C2H6 gas diffusion coefficients in SNNU‐Bai78. Very interestingly, this work is the first example of finely tuning the pore connectivity of MOFs toward strengthened host–guest interactions for the gas adsorption and separation.
Synthesis and Late‐Stage Diversification of BN‐Embedded Dibenzocorannulenes as Efficient Fluorescence Organic Light‐Emitting Diode Emitters
Authors: Okada Naoya , Nakatsuka Soichiro , Kawasumi Ryosuke , Gotoh Hajime , Yasuda Nobuhiro , Hatakeyama Takuji
Published: October 2022

We report the synthesis and late‐stage diversification of a new class of hetero‐buckybowl, BN‐embedded dibenzocorannulenes (B2N2‐DBCs). The synthesis is achieved via one‐shot halogenative borylation, comprising the nitrogen‐directed haloboration of alkyne and an intramolecular bora‐Friedel‐Crafts reaction, which provides BN‐embedded dibenzocorannulene possessing two bromo substituents (B2N2‐DBC‐Br). B2N2‐DBC‐Br undergoes diversification via coupling reactions to provide a variety of arylated derivatives (B2N2‐DBC‐R), exhibiting strong blue fluorescence. An organic light‐emitting diode (OLED) employing one of the derivatives as an emitter exhibited a high external quantum efficiency of 6.6 % and long operational lifetime of 907 h at an initial luminance of 1000 cd m−2, indicating the significant potential for the development of efficient and stable hetero‐buckybowl‐based OLED materials.
Chemical Strategies for Dendritic Magneto‐plasmonic Nanostructures Applied to Surface‐Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Fernandes Tiago , Nogueira Helena I. S. , Amorim Carlos O. , Amaral João S. , Daniel‐da‐Silva Ana L. , Trindade Tito
Published: October 2022

Invited for the cover of this issue is the group of Tito Trindade and colleagues at the University of Aveiro. The image depicts dendritic magneto‐plasmonic substrates for surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) detection. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.202202382.
Chemo‐enzymatic Synthesis of Pseudo‐trisaccharide Aminoglycoside Antibiotics with Enhanced Nonsense Read‐through Inducer Activity
Authors: Lee Na Joon , Kang Woongshin , Kwon Younghae , Oh Jae Wook , Jung Hogwuan , Seo Minsuk , Seol Yurin , Wi Jae Bok , Ban Yeon Hee , Yoon Yeo Joon , Park Je Won
Published: October 2022

Aminoglycosides (AGs) are broad‐spectrum antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections. Over the last two decades, studies have reported the potential of AGs in the treatment of genetic disorders caused by nonsense mutations, owing to their ability to induce the ribosomes to read through these mutations and produce a full‐length protein. However, the principal limitation in the clinical application of AGs arises from their high toxicity, including nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity. In this study, five novel pseudo‐trisaccharide analogs were synthesized by chemo‐enzymatic synthesis by acid hydrolysis of commercially available AGs, followed by an enzymatic reaction using recombinant substrate‐flexible KanM2 glycosyltransferase. The relationships between their structures and biological activities, including the antibacterial, nephrotoxic, and nonsense readthrough inducer (NRI) activities, were investigated. The absence of 1‐N‐acylation, 3′,4′‐dideoxygenation, and post‐glycosyl transfer modifications on the third sugar moiety of AGs diminishes their antibacterial activities. The 3′,4′‐dihydroxy and 6′‐hydroxy moieties regulate the in vitro nephrotoxicity of AGs in mammalian cell lines. The 3′,4′‐dihydroxy and 6′‐methyl scaffolds are indispensable for the ex vivo NRI activity of AGs. Based on the alleviated in vitro antibacterial properties and nephrotoxicity, and the highest ex vivo NRI activity among the five compounds, a kanamycin analog (6′‐methyl‐3′′‐deamino‐3′′‐hydroxykanamycin C) was selected as a novel AG hit for further studies on human genetic disorders caused by premature transcriptional termination.
An IoT enabled smart healthcare system using deep reinforcement learning
Authors: Jagannath Duraiswamy Jothinath , Dolly Raveena Judie , Let Gunamony Shine , Peter James Dinesh
Published: October 2022

Smart healthcare systems do exist with a variety of architectures. However, the hunt for better smart healthcare systems is more predominant. The cutting‐edge field of IoT (internet of things) and technological developments provide better solutions for smart healthcare systems using Sensor–Body Area Networks. Thus, the patient's sensor data can be collected, stored, analyzed, and suitable treatments can be offered, over the inter‐network, anytime, anywhere. The most complex part in such systems is the physician analysis of the huge volume of patient's data, to handle and prepare suitable diagnose and treatment for humanity. This article reveals a methodology of Deep Reinforcement Learning for smart healthcare decisions in an IoT interfaced Smart Healthcare–intelligent monitoring system. The system incorporates four layers, patient data collection, Edge computing, patient data transmission and Cloud computing. IoT is employed for automatic collection of Patient's data and for transmission of data, to data centers. Artificial intelligence techniques are used to analyze these data to provide suitable decisions, diagnosis, and treatment for those patients and humanity. Deep Reinforcement Learning provides the platform for smart decisions, diagnosis, and treatment. The investigation was experimented with synthetic simulated data of various BAN sensors. We developed a data set of size 286, which contains 21 different health parameters. After pre‐processing, these data were stored in the Amazon web services (AWS) cloud server using (message queue telemetry and transport) MQTT–IoT protocol. Initially, the Deep Q‐Network (DQN) was imposed to the training algorithm. The methodology was examined in PyTorch using a single GTX 1080 Ti X GPU with the training data sizes from 27 to 1536. The training time was about 10,000 to 90,000 s for training 500 epochs. In the high dimensional action space environment, the algorithm responded slowly to analyze, explore, and determine effective healthcare strategies. The systems convergence response of estimated hidden health state (g') and the actual health state (g) for the 21 different health parameters were estimated, whose values range from 0 to 1. The system responded with smart decisive interventions, which were good and close to that of a Physician's decision. The proposed methodology is definitely a promising solution for a smart and economic telemedicine.