bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of Histopathological Examination in Medicolegal Autopsies in Unravelling Precise Causes of Mortality
Authors: Sharma Divya , Gupta Anshu , Dewan Khushboo , Patiri Karsing , Gupta Kusum , Singh Usha Rani
Published: June 2022

Introduction: Medicolegal autopsies are performed to determine the cause and manner of death. Histopathological examination is reserved for only those cases where Cause Of Death (COD) is not readily apparent on autopsy. However, there are conflicting views regarding the utility of histopathological examination in medicolegal cases. Aim: To examine the role of histopathological examination in unravelling specific causes of mortality in two settings: 1) where collaborative clinical history and gross autopsy findings were available; 2) where definitive cause could be discovered only at the time of microscopic examination, thus altering its legal implications. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective observational study including all medicolegal autopsy cases, in which histopathological examination was requested and sample was received at the Pathology Department, Dr Baba Saheb Ambedkar Medical College, New Delhi, India. Since this was a retrospective study, the data was compiled from medicolegal cases received by the department in two years i.e., from January 2018 to December 2019. Histopathological examination was performed in 96 cases out of which 10 were excluded due to autolysis (n=86). Haemotoxilin and Eosin (H&E)-stained slides were examined and special stains and Immunohistochemistry (IHC) applied wherever required. Gross and histopathological findings were recorded along with autopsy findings and clinical history. The results were tabulated and statistical analysis was done using the Chi-square and Fischer’s test to look for any significance and association between gross and microscopic findings in various organs. The p-value of <0.05 was considered significant. Results: Histopathological examination was conclusive in ascertaining the specific COD in 30/86 cases (35%). These were categorised as pulmonary causes (27) including one case each of fat embolism and Amniotic Fluid Embolism (AFE) and cardiac causes (3). In 8 of these cases (9%), the cause was discovered only on microscopy in clinically and grossly unsuspected cases, which would have been missed otherwise if not submitted for histopathological examination. Conclusion: Histopathological examination is definitive in pointing towards the specific causes of death in considerable number of autopsies and can completely alter the legal implications.
Proportion and Pattern of Epithelial Cell Abnormalities in Cervical Smears- A Retrospective Study
Authors: Lakshmy M Rajappan , Prema NS , Raji N Laila
Published: June 2022

Introduction: Cervical cancer is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity among women worldwide. Approximately, 90% deaths due to cervical cancer occur in developing countries like India. Papanicolaou (Pap) smear test is an efficient, cost-effective screening tool to identify epithelial abnormalities in the preinvasive and early invasive stages of cervical cancer. Knowledge of the proportion and pattern of abnormal Pap smears in the local population is essential to ensure the early detection and treatment of precancerous lesions of cervix, thereby reducing the morbidity and mortality resulting from cervical cancer, which at present is preventable to a large extent. Aim: To estimate the proportion of cervical epithelial abnormalities in the local population and describe the morphological patterns of abnormalities employing the 2014 revised Bethesda system. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective, hospital record- based descriptive study conducted in a tertiary care centre in Kerala, India from January 2016 to December 2018. Altogether, 9330 cervical smears stained using Pap method were retrieved from slide archive and evaluated. Data was collected from case notes, request forms and cytology registers. Morphological analysis was done using the revised 2014 Bethesda system. Proportion of smears showing epithelial cell abnormalities and categories of epithelial abnormalities were expressed as percentages. Results: A total of 9330 samples were studied. The proportion of epithelial abnormalities was 1.70%, of which Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance (ASCUS) was the most frequent (1.38%), followed by Atypical Squamous Cells cannot exclude an High-grade squamous intra epithelial lesion (Atypical squamous cells-H) [HSIL (ASC-H)] (0.13%). Women with epithelial abnormalities belonged to a wide age range of 31-70 years, with majority in the 41-50 years age group. Most of the patients with abnormal Pap smears (62.3%) had normal looking or unremarkable cervix. Conclusion: The proportion and pattern of cervical epithelial abnormalities in the local population of Kerala is comparable to that of developed nations. Patients for cervical cancer screening cannot be selected based on clinical features or appearance of cervix. Even in the absence of gynaecologic complaints, screening for cervical cancer must be done at regular intervals and Pap smear test should be employed as a routine screening procedure for all women above 30 years of age. Special measures need to be taken to ensure that postmenopausal females are screened for cervical cancer.
Exflagellated Microgametes of Plasmodium vivax in Human Peripheral Blood: An Unusual Finding in Malaria
Authors: Thomas Anju Sussanna , Thomas Meeta , Annamma MO
Published: June 2022

Among the various diagnostic tests for the detection of malarial parasites, peripheral blood smear examination is the most common test performed for species identification by assessing the morphology of various developmental stages. The stages usually seen on the peripheral blood smear of a patient with Plasmodium vivax infection include schizonts, trophozoite forms and gametocytes. In the lifecycle of malarial parasites, exflagellation of microgametes usually occurs within the mosquito and is an extremely rare finding in human blood. Here, the author report a case of a 24-year-old female patient, who presented with Plasmodium vivax infection and exflagellated microgametes in the peripheral blood smear. To date, there have been only three cases reported from India that demonstrated similar findings. Due to it's rarity, it is crucial to be aware of such unusual exflagellated forms in the context of diagnostics to differentiate between malaria and coinfection with haemoparasites such as spirochetes and trypanosomes.
Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio as an Early Predictor of Severe COVID-19: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Krishnan Deepa , Rangarajan Jayanthi , Balamurugesan Pushpa , Palanisamy Selvi , Subanandam Sudha , Sunderasan Premalatha
Published: June 2022

Introduction: The ongoing pandemic Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) is posing a great challenge to the medical fraternity across the world. The disease has an unpredictable complex clinical course. Despite intermittent lockdowns of varying lengths and several containment procedures including personal behavioural changes observed, the virus persists with continuing mutations and surges in infection being reported in many countries. With existing limited knowledge about post infection immunity and efficacy of the newer vaccines currently, there is a need to identify risk factors and early predictors of severe COVID- 19 that could help timely risk stratification and prompt initiation of appropriate treatment to reduce morbidity and mortality. Aim: To identify the risk factors associated with severe COVID- 19 and to analyse the significance of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in detecting severe COVID-19 early. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective observational study conducted in Government Medical College Hospital, Omandurar Government Estate, Chennai, a tertiary care hospital in Tamil Nadu, India from July 2020-September 2020. The study included 300 COVID-19 patients admitted during the study time period. The clinical, demographic and laboratory profile were compared between the patients with severe and non severe disease to analyse the role of baseline NLR and other risk factors associated with severe COVID-19. Results: Majority of the patients were males (69%), with median age of 55 years. Older age and co-morbidities, diabetes mellitus and hypertension showed increased association with severe COVID-19. Complete Blood Count (CBC) examination at admission demonstrated significant elevation of total count, neutrophil count, NLR and reduction of lymphocyte count, platelet count in patients with severe and critical illness. Logistic regression identified NLR at admission, age, co-existing diabetes mellitus, serum ferritin and Computed Tomography (CT) chest lung involvement as independent risk factors for severe COVID-19. NLR had the largest Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 0.901; 95% Confidence Interval (CI), 0.867-0.935 followed by CT chest lung involvement with AUC of 0.887; 95% CI, 0.851-0.923 and serum ferritin with AUC of 0.818; 95% CI, 0.762-0.874 in Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Conclusion: This study demonstrated NLR at admission as an early predictor of severe COVID-19. Increased baseline NLR, older age, co-existing diabetes mellitus, elevated serum ferritin and higher CT chest lung involvement percentage were independent risk factors associated with severe and critical illness.
Effects of Social Media in Controlling Tungiasis: Mathematical Model
Authors: Night Calvet , Ambogo David , Achola Daniel
Published: June 2022

In this paper, a deterministic model incorporating social media in controlling tungiasis disease is considered. The model is shown to be positively invariant as well as bounded. We showed that the model has two equilibria points: disease free and endemic equilibria points. In both cases, the steady states are locally asymptotically stable provided the basic reproduction number is less than unity.
Eliminate the Nonlinear Oscillations of the Modified duffing Equation by using the Nonlinear Integrated Positive Position Feedback
Authors: Rahman Hanan Ahmed Abed
Published: June 2022

In this article, the nonlinear integrated positive position feedback (NIPPF) control adds to a nonlinear dynamical system modeled as the well known Duffng oscillators. This control is proposed to mitigate system nonlinear vibrations. The whole system mathematical model is analyzed by applying the multiple time scales perturbation method. The slow- ow modulation equations that govern the oscillation amplitudes of both the main system and controller are derived. The stability of the steady-state solution is presented and studied applying frequency response equations near the simultaneous primary and internal resonance cases. Before and after (NIPPF) control the nonlinear systems' steady-state amplitude are examined, the comparison is made to validate the closeness between the numerical solution and the analytical perturbative one at time-history and frequency response curves.
Prevalance of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Complex in HIV Sero-positive Patients Attending Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital, Lafia Nasarawa State Nigeria
Authors: K. Fadayomi, V. , U. Umeh, E. , G. Innocent, I. , B. Agbese, J. , I. Kuleve, M. , O. Sunday, E.
Published: June 2022

Tuberculosis is a public health problem especially in developing countries, including Nigeria. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex in HIV patients attending Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital Lafia, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. A total of 399 sputum samples were collected from HIV patient and examined using culture technique, Gene-Xpert, and SD-Bioline techniques. SD-Bioline test was used to differentiate between MTBC and non-Tuberculosis mycobacteria (NTM). Risk factors for MTBC were investigated. One hundred and forty-eight (148) MTBC isolates were detected using the culture techniques, 88 MTBC by the Gene-Xpert technique and 37 by the Ziehl-Neelson staining method, and 88 by the rapid test (SD- Bioline test kit) differentiating MTBC from NTM. This result indicates that most of the samples contained NTM (77.9%; 311/399) signifying latent tuberculosis, and 22.1% (88/399) were MTBC. Rate of rifampicin resistance was 13.5% (n = 54) in the study population. RIF resistance was  higher in samples  from male patients (16.5%; 22/134) than in those from female patients (12.1%; 32/265).
Spread of Mesalazine Rectal Foam after Single Dose in Mild Ulcer Patients
Authors: Rakesh K. , Kumaresan K. , Prameelarani S. , Salman M. , Kamireddy S. , Attili S. V. S. , Sharma Rakesh
Published: June 2022

Background: The rectal foam enemas were used for ulcerative colitis of distal regions due to its desired efficacy and less side effects. The spread and persistence of the drug plays a key role in the treatment. Therefore, the objective of the present study is to study the spread and persistence of Salofalk (Mesalazine foam Enema), manufactured by Dr. Falk Pharma GmbH (mesalazine) rectal foam in mild ulcerative colitis patients.

Methods: This is an open label, uncontrolled prospective study in ulcerative colitis patients. The patients received 2 g of mesalazine rectal foam (labelled with Tcm99) in two actuations (30 mL). The spread of the radiolabeled formulation was assessed over a period of 4 h by gamma scintigraphy.

Results: The formulation was retained by the patients till 4 h imaging period. The foam spread in rectum, sigmoid colon and descending colon. The percentage radioactive dose exposed is more in sigmoid colon compared to rectum and descending colon in 4 h imaging period. The spread of the foam extended till descending colon for two out of 4 patients.

Conclusion: The study results are consistent with the previous studies, and it supports the label indication. The obtained data of the present study provides in vivo evidence of the spread of formulation in the desired site of action.
DESENVOLVIMENTISMO, NEOLIBERALISMO E POLÍTICA EXTERNA: implicações para as relações entre o Brasil e os países africanos
Authors: Almeida Elga Lessa de
Published: June 2022

A análise dos últimos anos das relações políticas e econômicas entre o Brasil e os países africanos mostra tendência para repetição de um padrão presente ao longo de todo o século  XX – curtos períodos de aproximação seguidos por períodos maiores de afastamento. É possível notar que o investimento brasileiro nessas relações tem variado conforme a  orientação política adotada, se desenvolvimentista ou neoliberal. O intuito deste artigo é  compreender de que forma a adoção de políticas desenvolvimentistas, neoliberais e suas  versões do século XXI tem repercutido nas relações entre o Brasil e os países africanos.  Partimos do entendimento inicial de que a estabilidade e aprofundamento das relações entre o Brasil e os países africanos são amplamente dependentes da ação estatal, cujas variações de atuação decorrem de algumas limitantes inerentes à posição periférica desses países na economia-mundo e das relações internas travadas dentro desses países.
Assessment of Compliance With Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Price Transparency Final Rule
Authors: Mathew Angelin Tresa , Jain Bhav , Dee Edward Christopher , Johnson Jordan , Chino Fumiko
Published: June 2022

This cross-sectional study assesses disclosures of commercial payer-negotiated rates in compliance with Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services new final ruling effective January 1, 2022.
Evaluation of automatic tube current modulation of CT scanners using a dedicated and the CTDI dosimetry phantoms
Authors: Tsalafoutas Ioannis A. , AlKhazzam Shady , AlNaemi Huda , Kharita Mohammed Hassan
Published: June 2022

Purpose

To investigate the operation principles of the automatic tube current modulation (ATCM) of a CT scanner, using a dedicated phantom and the CT dosimetry index (CTDI) phantom.

Material and methods

The Mercury 4.0 phantom and three different configurations of the CTDI dosimetry phantom were employed. A frequently used clinical scanning protocol was employed as a basis for the acquisitions performed with all phantoms, using both scanning directions. Additional acquisitions with different pitch and examination protocols were performed with Mercury phantom, to further explore their effect on ATCM and the resulting image quality. Different software named DICOM Info Extractor, ImageJ, and imQuest, were used to derive CTDIvol and table position, image noise, and water equivalent diameter (WED) of each phantom CT image, respectively. ImQuest was also used to derive the detectability index (d’) of five different materials (air, solid water, polystyrene, iodine, and bone) embedded in the Mercury phantom.

Results

It was exhibited with all four phantoms that the scanning direction greatly affects the modulation curves. The fitting of the dose modulations curves suggested that for each table position what determines the CTDIvol value is the WED values of the phantom structures laying ahead towards the scanning direction, for a length equal to the effective width of the X‐ray beam. Furthermore, it was also exhibited that ATCM does not fully compensate for larger thicknesses, since images of larger WED phantom sections present more noise (larger SD) in all four phantoms and in Mercury 4.0 phantom smaller detectability (d’).

Conclusion

Mercury 4.0 is a dedicated phantom for a complete and in‐depth evaluation of the ATCM operation and the resulting image quality. However, in its absence, different CTDI configurations can be used as an alternative to investigate and comprehend some basic operation principles of the CT scanners’ ATCM systems.
Insensitivity of machine log files to MLC leaf backlash and effect of MLC backlash on clinical dynamic MLC motion: An experimental investigation
Authors: Barnes Michael , Pomare Dennis , Doebrich Marcus , Standen Therese S. , Wolf Joshua , Greer Peter , Simpson John
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Multi‐leaf‐collimator (MLC) leaf position accuracy is important for accurate dynamic radiotherapy treatment plan delivery. Machine log files have become widely utilized for quality assurance (QA) of such dynamic treatments. The primary aim is to test the sensitivity of machine log files in comparison to electronic portal imaging device (EPID)‐based measurements to MLC position errors caused by leaf backlash. The secondary aim is to investigate the effect of MLC leaf backlash on MLC leaf motion during clinical dynamic plan delivery.

Methods

The sensitivity of machine log files and two EPID‐based measurements were assessed via a controlled experiment, whereby the length of the “T” section of a series of 12 MLC leaf T‐nuts in a Varian Millennium MLC for a Trilogy C‐series type linac was reduced by sandpapering the top of the “T” to introduce backlash. The built‐in machine MLC leaf backlash test as well as measurements for two EPID‐based dynamic MLC positional tests along with log files were recorded pre‐ and post‐T‐nut modification. All methods were investigated for sensitivity to the T‐nut change by assessing the effect on measured MLC leaf positions. A reduced version of the experiment was repeated on a TrueBeam type linac with Millennium MLC.

Results

No significant differences before and after T‐nut modification were detected in any of the log file data. Both EPID methods demonstrated sensitivity to the introduced change at approximately the expected magnitude with a strong dependence observed with gantry angle. EPID‐based data showed MLC positional error in agreement with the micrometer measured T‐nut length change to 0.07 ± 0.05 mm (1 SD) using the departmental routine QA test. Backlash results were consistent between linac types.

Conclusion

Machine log files appear insensitive to MLC position errors caused by MLC leaf backlash introduced via the T‐nut. The effect of backlash on clinical MLC motions is heavily gantry angle dependent.
Dendrite‐Free and Long‐Cycling Lithium Metal Battery Enabled by Ultrathin, 2D Shield‐Defensive, and Single Lithium‐Ion Conducting Polymeric Membrane
Authors: Liu Qiantong , Liu Ruliang , Cui Yin , Zhou Minghong , Zeng Junkui , Zheng Bingna , Liu Shaohong , Zhu Youlong , Wu Dingcai
Published: June 2022

Polymeric membranes are considered as promising materials to realize safe and long‐life lithium metal batteries (LMBs). However, they are usually based on soft 1D linear polymers and thus cannot effectively inhibit piercing of lithium dendrites at high current density. Herein, single lithium‐ion conducting molecular brushes (GO‐g‐PSSLi) are successfully designed and fabricated with a new 2D “soft–hard–soft” hierarchical structure by grafting hairy lithium polystyrenesulfonate (PSSLi) chains on both sides of graphene oxide (GO) sheets. The ultrathin GO‐g‐PSSLi membrane is further constructed by evaporation‐induced layer‐by‐layer self‐assembly of GO‐g‐PSSLi molecular brushes. Unlike conventional soft 1D linear polymeric structure, the rigid 2D extended aromatic structure of intralayer GO backbones can bear the shield effect of preventing the dendrites possibly generated at high current density from piercing. More importantly, such a shield effect can be significantly strengthened by layer‐by‐layer stacking of 2D molecular brushes. On the other hand, the 3D interconnected interlayer channels and the soft single lithium‐ion conducting PSSLi side‐chains on the surface of channels provide rapid lithium‐ion transportation pathways and homogenize lithium‐ion flux. As a result, LMBs with GO‐g‐PSSLi membrane possess long‐term reversible lithium plating/striping (6 months) at high current density.
Stable and Bright Electroluminescent Devices utilizing Emissive 0D Perovskite Nanocrystals Incorporated in a 3D CsPbBr3 Matrix
Authors: Mishra Aditya , Bose Riya , Zheng Yangzi , Xu Weijie , McMullen Reema , Mehta Abhas B. , Kim Moon J. , Hsu Julia W. P. , Malko Anton V. , Slinker Jason D.
Published: June 2022

The 0D cesium lead halide perovskite Cs4PbBr6 has drawn remarkable interest due to its highly efficient robust green emission compared to its 3D CsPbBr3 counterpart. However, seizing the advantages of the superior photoluminescence properties for practical light‐emitting devices remains elusive. To date, Cs4PbBr6 has been employed only as a higher‐bandgap nonluminescent matrix to passivate or provide quantum/dielectric confinement to CsPbBr3 in light‐emitting devices and to enhance its photo‐/thermal/environmental stability. To resolve this disparity, a novel solvent engineering method to incorporate highly luminescent 0D Cs4PbBr6 nanocrystals (perovskite nanocrystals (PNCs)) into a 3D CsPbBr3 film, forming the active emissive layer in single‐layer perovskite light‐emitting electrochemical cells (PeLECs) is designed. A dramatic increase of the maximum external quantum efficiency and luminance from 2.7% and 6050 cd m−2 for a 3D‐only PeLEC to 8.3% and 11 200 cd m−2 for a 3D–0D PNC device with only 7% by weight of 0D PNCs is observed. The majority of this increase is driven by the efficient inherent emission of the 0D PNCs, while the concomitant morphology improvement also contributes to reduced leakage current, reduced hysteresis, and enhanced operational lifetime (half‐life of 129 h), making this one of the best‐performing LECs reported to date.
Synthesis of Saturated N‐Heterocycles via a Catalytic Hydrogenation Cascade
Authors: Wagener Tobias , Pierau Marco , Heusler Arne , Glorius Frank
Published: June 2022

Saturated N‐heterocycles are prominent motifs found in various natural products and pharmaceuticals. Despite the increasing interest in this class of compounds, the synthesis of saturated bicyclic azacycles requires tedious multi‐step syntheses. Herein, we present a one‐pot protocol for the synthesis of octahydroindoles, decahydroquinolines, and octahydroindolizines through a cascade reaction.

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Triboelectric Plasma CO2 Reduction Reaching a Mechanical Energy Conversion Efficiency of 2.3%
Authors: Li Sumin , Zhang Bao , Gu Guangqin , Fang Dongyang , Xiang Xiaochen , Zhang Wenhe , Zhu Yifei , Wang Jiao , Cuo Junmeng , Cui Peng , Cheng Gang , Du Zuliang
Published: June 2022

Mechanical energy‐induced CO2 reduction is a promising strategy for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and simultaneously harvesting mechanical energy. Unfortunately, the low energy conversion efficiency is still an open challenge. Here, multiple‐pulse, flow‐type triboelectric plasma with dual functions of harvesting mechanical energy and driving chemical reactions is introduced to efficiently reduce CO2. CO selectivity of 92.4% is achieved under normal temperature and pressure, and the CO and O2 evolution rates reach 12.4 and 6.7 µmol h−1, respectively. The maximum energy conversion efficiencies of 2.3% from mechanical to chemical energy and 31.9% from electrical to chemical energy are reached. The low average electron energy in triboelectric plasma and vibrational excitation dissociation of CO2 with low barrier is revealed by optical emission spectra and plasma simulations, which enable the high energy conversion efficiency. The approach of triboelectric plasma reduction reported here provides a promising strategy for efficient utilization of renewable and dispersed mechanical energy.
Polypyrrole Nanoenzymes as Tumor Microenvironment Modulators to Reprogram Macrophage and Potentiate Immunotherapy
Authors: Zeng Weiwei , Yu Mian , Chen Ting , Liu Yuanqi , Yi Yunfei , Huang Chenyi , Tang Jia , Li Hanyue , Ou Meitong , Wang Tianqi , Wu Meiying , Mei Lin
Published: June 2022

Nanozyme‐based tumor catalytic therapy has attracted widespread attention in recent years, but its therapeutic outcome is drastically diminished by species of nanozyme, concentration of substrate, pH value, and reaction temperature, etc. Herein, a novel Cu‐doped polypyrrole nanozyme (CuP) with trienzyme‐like activities, including catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and peroxidase (POD), is first proposed by a straightforward one‐step procedure, which can specifically promote O2 and ·OH elevation but glutathione (GSH) reduction in tumor microenvironment (TME), causing irreversible oxidative stress damage to tumor cells and reversing the redox balance. The PEGylated CuP nanozyme (CuPP) has been demonstrated to efficiently reverse immunosuppressive TME by overcoming tumor hypoxia and re‐educating macrophage from pro‐tumoral M2 to anti‐tumoral M1 phenotype. More importantly, CuPP exhibits hyperthermia‐enhanced enzyme‐mimic catalytic and immunoregulatory activities, which results in intense immune responses and almost complete tumor inhibition by further combining with αPD‐L1. This work opens intriguing perspectives not only in enzyme‐catalytic nanomedicine but also in macrophage‐based tumor immunotherapy.
2D Non‐Van Der Waals Transition‐Metal Chalcogenide Layers Derived from Vanadium‐Based MAX Phase for Ultrafast Zinc Storage
Authors: Du Zhiguo , Gu Jianan , Cao Zhenjiang , Wang Haiyang , Zhao Qi , Ye Yuxuan , Li Bin , Chen Weihua , Liu Chuntai , Yang Shubin
Published: June 2022

Although 2D non‐van der Waals (vdW) layers show many intriguing physical and chemical properties as well as wide applications in the fields of electronics, catalysis, and energy storage, they still lack efficient synthetic approaches owing to their three‐dimensionally bonded structures. Here, a facile approach to produce 2D non‐vdW transition‐metal chalcogenide (TMC) layers based on the conversion of vanadium‐based MAX phase (V2GeC) at high temperatures in hydrogen sulfide gas is developed. Associated with the etching of the germanium layers from the MAX phase, the vanadium layers are transformed into 2D non‐vdW V3S4 layers. This originates from the self‐intercalation of ordered V atoms within the vdW space of intermediated vdW vanadium disulfide layers during the conversion reaction. Owing to the ultrathin character, highly exposed active surface, and unique vacancy‐enriched structure, the resultant 2D non‐vdW V3S4 layers deliver a high reversible capacity of 341 mAh g−1, good rate capabilities, and long‐term cycling performance for zinc storage.
Fluoride Catalysts and Organic Additives for Conversion of CO2 to Formic Acid and Methanol using Powdered Silicon as Reducing Agent
Authors: Motokura Ken , Nakao Kaiki , Manaka Yuichi
Published: June 2022

The effect of fluoride catalysts and organoboronic acid additives on the reduction of CO2 using waste silicon wafer powder as a reducing agent was investigated. Compared to other fluorides containing monovalent cations, tetraalkylammonium fluorides show higher catalytic activity for the conversion of CO2 to formic acid. Arylboronic acid containing electron‐withdrawing groups such as p‐fluorophenylboronic acid facilitated methanol formation during CO2 reduction. Electrophilic activation of formic acid by arylboronic acid may promote the reduction of formic acid to methanol.
Ring‐fused Dipyrrolyldiketone Difluoroboron Complexes for Pioneering Exploration of Photothermal Effect
Authors: He Wanru , Zhang Dongxiang , Wang Jie , Xu Zhangrun , Du Jianjun , Jiang Xin‐Dong
Published: June 2022

Dipyrrolyldiketone difluoroboron complexes (BONEPYs) reported by Maeda were mainly applied for the selective recognition of anions. Herein, innovative introduction of the ring‐fused segment in BONEPY system resulted in a twisted structure by X‐ray crystallographic analysis and enhanced the spectral bathochromic shift performance. BONEPY‐nanoparticles adjusted the energy release process of the excited state, endowed high photothermal effect, and could be degraded and discharged out of the body potentially. BONEPY‐nanoparticles are the novel phototherapeutic reagent with improved safety and low side effect.
Easy Access to Indole‐based Bi‐Sulfurylate‐Heterocyclic Scaffolds
Authors: Mari Giacomo , De Crescentini Lucia , Favi Gianfranco , Mancinelli Michele , Santeusanio Stefania , Mantellini Fabio
Published: June 2022

New and valuable indole based sulfurylated bi‐heterocyclic systems such as 4‐((1H‐indol‐2‐yl)thio)‐5‐oxo‐4,5‐dihydro‐1H‐pyrazoles and 3,3‐dimethyl‐3′H‐spiro‐indoline‐2,2′‐thiazoles are regioselectively obtained under very mild conditions employing 1,2‐diaza‐1,3‐dienes and not smelly indoline 2‐thiones as starting materials.
Postoperative protocols following endoscopic skull base surgery: An evidence‐based review with recommendations
Authors: Abiri Arash , Patel Tirth R. , Nguyen Emily , Birkenbeuel Jack L. , Tajudeen Bobby A. , Choby Garret , Wang Eric W. , Schlosser Rodney J. , Palmer James N. , Adappa Nithin D. , Kuan Edward C.
Published: June 2022

Background

Postoperative management strategies for endoscopic skull base surgery (ESBS) vary widely because of limited evidence‐based guidance.

Methods

The PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases were systematically reviewed from January 1990 through February 2022 to examine 18 postoperative considerations for ESBS. Nonhuman studies, articles written in a language other than English, and case reports were excluded. Studies were assessed for levels of evidence, and each topic's aggregate grade of evidence was evaluated.

Results

A total of 74 studies reporting on 18 postoperative practices were reviewed. Postoperative pain management, prophylactic antibiotics, and lumbar drain use had the highest grades of evidence (B). The literature currently lacks high quality evidence for a majority of the reviewed ESBS precautions. There were no relevant studies to address postoperative urinary catheter use and medical intracranial pressure reduction.

Conclusion

The evidence for postoperative ESBS precautions is heterogeneous, scarce, and generally of low quality. Although this review identified the best evidence available in the literature, it suggests the urgent need for more robust evidence. Therefore, additional high‐quality studies are needed in order to devise optimal postoperative ESBS protocols.
Template‐Guided Regioselective Encaging of Platinum Single Atoms into Y Zeolite: Enhanced Selectivity in Semihydrogenation and Resistance to Poisoning
Authors: Chen Qiang , Peng Pai , Yang Ganjun , Li Yanzhi , Han Mengxi , Tan Yaozong , Zhang Chengxi , Chen Junwen , Jiang Kun , Liu Lei , Ye Chenliang , Xing Enhui
Published: June 2022

It is challenging to establish single metal atoms with a uniform coordination environment at targeted sites of a zeolite. In this study, single platinum atoms were selectively encaged in the six‐membered rings of sodalite (SOD) cages within Y zeolite using a template‐guiding strategy. During the in situ synthesis process, template molecules were designed to occupy supercages and thereby force coordinated platinum species into SOD cages. Subsequent control of the post‐treatment conditions yielded the Y zeolite with selectively encaged single platinum atoms, denoted Pt@Y‐SOD. The Pt@Y‐SOD catalyst had good stability and excellent catalytic selectivity in the semihydrogenation reaction, and it exhibited interesting thiophene and carbon monoxide resistance in this transformation because interactions with these poisons are weakened by the configuration of the encaged single platinum atoms.
Molecular Inhibition for Selective CO2 Conversion
Authors: Creissen Charles E. , Rivera de la Cruz José Guillermo , Karapinar Dilan , Taverna Dario , Schreiber Moritz W. , Fontecave Marc
Published: June 2022

Electrochemical CO2 reduction presents a sustainable route to the production of chemicals and fuels. Achieving a narrow product distribution with heterogeneous Cu catalysts is challenging and conventional material modifications offer limited control over selectivity. Here, we show that surface‐immobilised molecular species can act as inhibitors for specific carbon products to provide rational control over product distributions. Combined experimental and computational results showed that anchoring of a thiol‐functionalised pyridine on Cu destabilises a surface‐bound reaction intermediate to energetically block a CO‐producing pathway, thereby favouring formate production. The nitrogen atom was shown to be essential to the inhibition mechanism. The ability of molecules to control selectivity through inhibition of specific reaction pathways offers a unique approach to rationally modify heterogeneous catalysts.
Reversible Insulator–Metal Transition by Chemical Doping and Dedoping of a Mott Insulator
Authors: Teruya Ryota , Sato Tetsu , Yamashita Masahiro , Hanasaki Noriaki , Ueda Akira , Matsuda Masaki
Published: June 2022

The chemical carrier doping of molecular Mott insulators has been poorly investigated to date due to its difficulty. In this study, iodine doping of a molecular Mott insulator, lithium phthalocyanine crystallized in the x‐form (x‐LiPc), was performed to obtain metallic x‐LiPcI. Crystal structure analysis revealed that iodine atoms penetrated channels of x‐LiPc and formed one‐dimensional chains. The Raman spectroscopy of x‐LiPcI indicated the existence of linear I5−, demonstrating a transition from a half‐filled band of the Mott insulating state to a 2/5‐filled band of the metallic state. Electrical resistivity measurements confirmed the metallic nature of x‐LiPcI, whereas a thermally activated behavior was observed for pristine x‐LiPc. Furthermore, the x‐LiPc Mott insulator was reproduced by dedoping iodine from x‐LiPcI, suggesting that the electronic state can be reversibly tuned between the Mott insulating and metallic states by chemical doping and dedoping.
Reverse Sequence Polymerization‐Induced Self‐Assembly in Aqueous Media
Authors: Neal Thomas J. , Penfold Nicholas J. W. , Armes Steven P.
Published: June 2022

We report a new aqueous polymerization‐induced self‐assembly (PISA) formulation that enables the hydrophobic block to be prepared first when targeting diblock copolymer nano‐objects. This counter‐intuitive reverse sequence approach uses an ionic reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) agent for the RAFT aqueous dispersion polymerization of 2‐hydroxypropyl methacrylate (HPMA) to produce charge‐stabilized latex particles. Chain extension using a water‐soluble methacrylic, acrylic or acrylamide comonomer then produces sterically stabilized diblock copolymer nanoparticles in an aqueous one‐pot formulation. In each case, the monomer diffuses into the PHPMA particles, which act as the locus for the polymerization. A remarkable change in morphology occurs as the ≈600 nm latex is converted into much smaller sterically stabilized diblock copolymer nanoparticles, which exhibit thermoresponsive behavior. Such reverse sequence PISA formulations enable the efficient synthesis of new functional diblock copolymer nanoparticles.
Improving proton conductivity of metal organic framework materials by reducing crystallinity
Authors: Tang Huan , Lv Xueyi , Du Juan , Liu Yang , Liu Jie , Guo Lihua , Zheng Xiaofeng , Hao Hongguo , Liu Zhe
Published: June 2022

Developing a new type of proton conductive material is key to improve the energy conversion performance of proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC). In recent years, metal organic framework (MOF) matrix conductive materials have become one of the research hotspots in the field of MOF. However, the grain boundaries in MOF particles and MOF@polymer composite films make it difficult to form long‐range ordered proton transport channels. Reducing crystallinity and changing the internal structural properties of MOF matrix may effectively improve its proton conductivity. In this study, some synthesis strategies were used to induce the crystallinity of MOF matrix to improve the proton conductivity, and low‐crystallinity MOG materials were obtained. In all, eight materials were prepared. The morphology characterization and proton conductivity of MOF and MOG materials were studied to explore the influence of different crystallinities and internal structures on proton conductivity. The results explicitly indicated that for the hydrophilic materials, the proton conductivity of MOG‐MOF‐808, MOG‐UiO‐66, MOG‐HKUST‐1 was significantly improved, compared with the corresponding MOFs at 75% RH. Among them, MOG‐MOF‐808 and MOG‐UiO‐66 show strong water stability and thermal stability, ensuring that it can be applied in special and complex environments. For the hydrophobic ZIF‐8 and MOG‐ZIF‐8, both their proton conductivities are low due to the material characteristics and network structures, while the proton conductivity of MOG‐ZIF‐8 is also higher than that of ZIF‐8 at 303 K. The results show that the abundant low‐crystallinity network structure in MOG materials played a very important role in improving the proton conductivity of the hydrophilic materials.
Constructing highly rough skin layer of thin film (nano)composite polyamide membranes to enhance separation performance: A review
Authors: Hu Dan , Ren Xiaomin , Fu Hongyan , Wang Yu , Feng Xudong , Li Hehe
Published: June 2022

The thin‐film (nano)composite (TFC or TFN) polyamide membrane prepared by interfacial polymerization method has a wide range of applications in water treatment. The preparation of TFC or TFN membrane with a highly wrinkled morphology in the selective layer can significantly improve the permeability of the membrane and is an effective way to break the “trade‐off” effect. However, the formation mechanism of highly rough skin layer and the membrane fouling performance associated with the rough structure have been underexplored. In this review, the formation mechanisms of crumpled membranes were summarized into four aspects: interfacial nanobubbles effect, template method, diffusion‐driven instability, and co‐solvent effects. On the basis of these mechanisms, researchers have explored different methods to construct membranes with highly rough structures. This article summarized these construction methods including introduction of additives, construction of functional interlayer, sacrificial template and some other strategies. The advantages and disadvantages of these fabrication methods and the separation performance comparison of the crumpled membrane and the original membrane were discussed in detail. Furthermore, the review analyzed the recent research status of the anti‐fouling performance of the pleated membrane, and finally put forward the research opinions on the future in fabricating highly roughness membranes.
A review of venipuncture sites in Alligator mississippiensis with anatomical description of a novel venipuncture site
Authors: Wilhite Ray , Nevarez Javier
Published: June 2022

Here we describe and illustrate the sites of venipuncture in the alligator using CT reconstructions, cross‐sectional anatomy, and traditional dissection. We also describe the clinical approach for each venipuncture site and describe a novel site for venipuncture in crocodilians, the lateral occipital sinus. Based on the authors' experience, the lateral occipital sinuses offer the safest, simplest, and most consistent access for venipuncture in the alligator. Future studies should examine other crocodilian species to confirm the presence of the lateral occipital sinuses.
Safety and preliminary efficacy of argatroban plus dual antiplatelet therapy for acute mild to moderate ischemic stroke with large artery atherosclerosis
Authors: Li Xiao‐Qiu , Hou Xiao‐Wen , Cui Yu , Tian Xiao‐Fu , Wang Xin‐Hong , Zhou Zhong‐He , Chen Hui‐Sheng
Published: June 2022

Objective

Previous studies suggest the benefit of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) for acute ischemic stroke with large artery atherosclerosis (LAA) etiology, but there is no study about the effect of DAPT plus anticoagulant in this population.

Methods

A prospective single arm trial was performed to determine the effect of DAPT combined with argatroban on acute mild to moderate ischemic stroke patients with LAA, which was compared with historical populations. The main outcome was the proportion of early neurological deterioration (END). The secondary outcomes included scores of 0 to 1 and 0 to 2 on the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at 90 days, and changes in National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) from baseline to day 7 after admission. The safety outcomes included intracranial hemorrhage at 7 days, organ hemorrhage, and all‐cause mortality at 90 days.

Results

A total of 120 patients with argatroban plus DAPT were prospectively enrolled and 529 patients with only DAPT were retrospectively collected. There was no significant difference in baseline characteristics between groups. Compared with control group, combined treatment group had lower proportion of END (4.2% vs. 10.0%, adjusted p = .046), more reduction in NIHSS score from the baseline to day 7 after admission (1.06 ± 2.03 vs. 0.39 ± 1.97, adjusted p = .003), and higher proportion of mRS (0–2) at 90 days (87.5% vs. 79.2%, adjusted p = .048). No intracranial hemorrhage was found between groups.

Conclusions

This is the first report that short‐term argatroban combined with DAPT seems to be safe and may effectively prevent END and improve neurological prognosis for acute mild to moderate ischemic stroke patients with LAA; however, interpretation of the conclusion required caution due to nonrandomized controlled trial with medium sample size.
COVID‐19, ESG investing, and the resilience of more sustainable stocks: Evidence from European firms
Authors: Cardillo Giovanni , Bendinelli Ennio , Torluccio Giuseppe
Published: June 2022

Following the COVID‐19 outbreak, orientation toward sustainability is a critical factor in ensuring firm survival and growth. Using a large sample of 1,204 firms in Europe during the year 2020, this study investigates how more sustainable firms fare during the pandemic compared with other firms in terms of risk–return trade‐off and stock market liquidity. We also highlight the drivers of the resilience of more sustainable firms to the pandemic. Particularly, we document that higher levels of cash holdings and liquid assets in the pre‐COVID period help these firms to perform and absorb the COVID‐19 externalities better than other firms. Our results are robust to a host of econometric models, including GMM estimations and several measures of stock market performance. These findings contribute to the theoretical and empirical debate on the role of the sustainability as a source of corporate resilience to unexpected shocks.
Fostering green product innovation through green entrepreneurial orientation: The roles of employee green creativity, green role identity, and organizational transactive memory system
Authors: Tuan Luu Trong
Published: June 2022

Developing new green products is critical to an organization's achievement of sustainable goals as well as competitive advantage. This study aims to unravel the mechanisms through which organizations with green entrepreneurial orientation (green EO) can foster green product innovation. The dataset for testing these mechanisms was garnered from employees and managers who worked in manufacturing firms based in an Asia‐Pacific market. Through a multilevel analysis of the data, the study revealed the positive nexus between organizational green EO and green product innovation. The results of the study further lent credence to employee green creativity as a mediation path for such a relationship. Furthermore, employee green role identity and organizational transactive memory system were found to fortify the linkage between green EO and employee green creativity. These results suggest to organizations how to optimally translate their green entrepreneurial strategy into new green products that met customer preferences and societal expectations.
Anticancer Activity of Reconstituted Ribonuclease S‐Decorated Artificial Viral Capsid
Authors: Liang Yingbing , Furukawa Hiroto , Sakamoto Kentarou , Inaba Hiroshi , Matsuura Kazunori
Published: June 2022

Ribonuclease S (RNase S) is an enzyme that exhibits anticancer activity by degrading RNAs within cancer cells; however, the cellular uptake efficiency is low due to its small molecular size. Here we generated RNase S‐decorated artificial viral capsids with a size of 70–170 nm by self‐assembly of the β‐annulus‐S‐peptide followed by reconstitution with S‐protein at neutral pH. The RNase S‐decorated artificial viral capsids are efficiently taken up by HepG2 cells and exhibit higher RNA degradation activity in cells compared with RNase S alone. Cell viability assays revealed that RNase S‐decorated capsids have high anticancer activity comparable to that of standard anticancer drugs.
Shape optimization of pipeline components
Authors: Guarato de Freitas Santos Jessica , de Souza Francisco José , Silva de Lima Bruno
Published: June 2022

When it comes to shape optimization of processes and equipment in an industrial environment, adjoint methods together with computational fluid dynamics have been a great solution. The success of these methods is due to the total cost of obtaining the sensitivity derivatives once it is independent of the number of shape parameters. However, few developments for multiphase flows have been proposed, as there are still fundamental limitations in adjoint models that might prevent their common use. The adjoint theory is not applicable, for example, to the Lagrangian formulation, which has been the workhorse in particle‐induced erosion simulations. Despite these circumstances, it is intuitively possible to think that the optimization of the carrier flow is also expected to ‘optimize’ the particle flow. For instance, reducing total losses in a pipe junction will lead to a more streamlined design. This, in turn, will prevent sudden changes in fluid motion and, consequently, in particle path. As a direct outcome, erosion is expected to be mitigated, as it is mostly influenced by the particle velocity. Given the lack of rigorous mathematical proof of that, the present work investigates how the optimization of single‐phase flow can also mitigate erosion. The erosive wear problem was tackled in three different bend pipes, and the correlation with Stokes number was further explored. As general results, substantial reductions in peak erosion have been found as a consequence of minimizing total losses for all addressed cases. Accordingly, these pipeline components may have an increase in their service life.