bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shaken Baby Syndrome: Simple Review Article
Authors: Hashim Sawsan Hassan Abdullah , Alanazi Haneen Obaid , Alanazi Reham Arif A. , Alanazi Rahaf Meshal Lafi , Muhalhil Rasil Naif , Alanazi Afnan Hamdan Owayn , Alanazi Amer Meshal H.
Published: January 2022

Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS) occurs in infants when the head is subjected to excessive acceleration and deceleration. Guthkelch first identified SBS when he noticed that infants with subdural hematoma did not always have gross markings, indicating the possibility of a baby shaking. The rotational force pushes the brain against the skull, causing various types of head and neck injuries. Ophthalmologic testing for retinal haemorrhages and ocular fundus, which can rule out SBS, is one of the tests for SBS. Immunohistochemical staining for -amyloid precursor protein (-APP) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) accurately identify brain injuries and bleeding, resulting in a more accurate diagnosis of SBS. SBS symptoms are shared by other etiologies, making it difficult to determine the true cause of infantile injury. Experiments using biomechanical models to recreate the whiplash movement have not revealed subdural haemorrhaging, but limitations in the models have doubt to these results.
Antioxidant Studies of Thiazole Ring Bearing Chalcone Derivatives
Authors: Kasetti Ashok Babu , Dwivedi Jayesh , Nagasuri Ravindra
Published: January 2022

Oxidative stress is one of the common problems seen in a variety of diseases. Chalcones and in particular heteroaryl chalcones had reported with promising antioxidant activities. Hence, in the present work, we reported the antioxidant activity of twenty thiazole ring bearing chalcone derivatives (1-20). Among the tested compounds, compounds 17, 19 and 20 containing 2-pyridinyl, 3-pyridinyl and 2-thiazolyl scaffolds showed superior antioxidant activity than the standard with their IC50 values 4±1µg/mL, 3±1 µg/mL and 5±1 µg/mL respectively. The compound 19 is an interesting lead for the development of newer antioxidant agents.
A Comparative Study to Assess Compassion Fatigue, Burnout and Compassion Satisfaction among Casualty Nurses with Intensive Care Unit Nurses at Selected Hospitals in Vadodara
Authors: Sadanandan Sachin , Kataria Lakhan , Suresh V. , Sadanandan Sajitha
Published: January 2022

Aim: This study is focussed on comparison and assessment of compassion fatigue, burnout and compassion satisfaction among casualty nurses with intensive care unit (ICU) nurses.

Study Design: Quantitative research approach and Descriptive - Comparative research design.

Materials and Methods: Study targeted casualty nurses and ICU nurses working at selected hospitals in Vadodara. A total of 80 casualty nurses and ICU nurses were asked to participate in this study. Convenient sampling technique was used. First tool consists of demographic variables. Second tool consists of Compassion Fatigue/Satisfaction Self-Test (CFS), assess the existing level of compassion fatigue, burnout and compassion satisfaction.

Results: Assessment of compassion fatigue among casualty nurses revealed that 18 [60%] nurses exhibited extremely high-risk level, Analysis of burnout among casualty nurses showed that 15 [50%] half of the nurses presented moderate risk level and among ICU nurses showed that 45 [90%] majority of the nurses presented high risk levels of burnout. Examining the final component of the CFS tool among casualty nurses, more than half of the respondents 16 [53.3%] were characterised as high potential level of compassion satisfaction and among ICU nurses, half of the respondents 25 [50%] were characterised as having a modest potential level of compassion satisfaction. Independent t-test shows that there was no significant difference in the level of compassion fatigue and compassion satisfaction between casualty nurses and ICU nurses. But there was a significant difference in the level of burnout between casualty nurses and ICU nurses, since the t value [18.256] was found to be greater than the table value [1.990] at .05 significant.

Conclusion: Study reveals an association was found to exist between the level of compassion fatigue and demographic variables. But there was no association found in the level of burnout and compassion satisfaction among subjects with their selected demographic variables.
How Liquid Based Cytology Surpasses Conventional Cytology - A Review Article
Authors: Kumaresan Devikala
Published: January 2022

Pap smear is the most widely used test for screening of cervical cancer and precancerous lesions. Liquid-based cytology is a cervical cancer screening technology that inspects cells by dissolving them in liquid and is used as a main screening tool for invasive cervical cancer. The purpose of this article is to demonstrate how fluid-based cytology has surpassed conventional cytology in the interpretation of cervical smear biopsy results in order to identify early cervical lesions in a more efficient and convenient manner, allowing for early diagnosis and treatment of cervical cancer patients and thus improving patient wellbeing.
Vitamin D, A Predictor of Outcome in COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Lamture Y. R. , Gajbhiye Varsha P. , Ambad Ranjit , Akther Md. Jawed , Domakunti Rajesh
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Hypovitaminosis D is a commonly associated with increased prevalence of pulmonary  infections. High mortality rate of  COVID 19 infections is associated with immune dysfunction like cytokine storm. Many studies show important function of vitamin D in proper functioning of immune system.  Very few studies are available to associate vitamin D level and severity of Covid infection, Hence this study was undertaken  to find a relation of vitamin D levels and outcome of COVID-19.

Methods: Study design is retrospective observational analytical case control. A study population  was hospital base cases and medical examination with clear definition of cases, medical examination, inclusion/ exclusion criteria, outcome and exposure. The Statistical analysis was done to  measure the  association  of outcome (the death or severe disease risk ) with exposure (low vitamin D) and that was determined by measuring  Odds ratio.

Results: Most of the patients (45%) were in an age ranging from 40 to 59 years . Maximum number of the patients (68%) have one comorbidity. Diabetes mellitus and hypertension , both present in 28 % and other co morbidity in 40 % of patients and 32% of patient reported to have no comorbidities.  Present study reveals vitamin D deficiency in around for 74% of patients. Most of the patients were managed without supplementation of oxygen, but few needed high flow oxygen and even invasive ventilation. However prognosis was good. COVID-19 deaths occurred only in 2% of the cases.  All  dead patients and patients with a severe disease had vitamin D deficiency. This association of hypovitaminosis D was more significant than other co morbidities including hypertension and diabetes mellitus.

Conclusions: Our study concluded that, two third of patients were having vitamin  D deficiency. Study clearly depicts severe vitamin D deficiency is associated with fatal cases,  therefore  vitamin D level can be used as a predictor of mortality.
Covid-19: Preventive Measures, Vaccination and Way Forward: A Review
Authors: Khambra Snarvia , Chakole Swaroopa
Published: January 2022

Background: COVID-19 or coronavirus disease 2019 is the unprecedented medical emergency having widespread and multispectral impact. The treatment uncertainty, lack of health infrastructure, lack of available medical professionals, long term implications of COVID-19 are the reasons behind adopting preventive measure over curative measure.  Various preventive measures are available which are tried and tested in previous outbreaks. The measures are reliable and ready to use. Also its efficacy has also been proved. Vaccination drive must be accelerated so as to cover wide section of population as soon as possible. Various preventive measures approved by WHO and various local health authorities are being successfully used in order to gain control over the viral spread. Vaccination which is also a preventive measures has been successfully rolled out in various countries.

Conclusion: Vaccine hesitancy is the burning issue which needs to be addresses otherwise it can derail the vaccination efforts. Importance of preventive measure must be highlights time to time. Recent surge in cases in many countries is attribute to the complacent attitude and lax following of preventive guidelines. Many preventive measures are made not only for COVID-19 but it can also protect us from various other contagious diseases and daily allergies of pollution and dust.  Also more innovative mitigation measures should be synthesized in order to contain the viral spread.
DNA Extraction and Quantification of Some Economically Important Fruits in Tamil Nadu
Authors: Kamalakkannan K. , Balakrishnan V. , Sumathi R. , Manikandaprabu N.
Published: January 2022

Humans can benefited greatly from functional foods in order to preserve good health. The research began with the extraction of DNA from the white edible section of Cocos nucifera and the flesh of Borassus flabellifer fruits using the simple, Edward, PCI, and CTAB methods. To confirm the existence of DNA, the complete isolated DNA was examined using the DPA and Keller-killani tests. Following the identification test, UV spectroscopy was used to quantify the results by taking the absorbance of the samples at 260nm and 280nm and quantified using absorbance ratio procedure. When compared to other procedures, the CTAB approach produces acceptable results at low temperatures. Both the white edible part of Cocos nucifera and flesh of Borassus flabellifer gave high purity DNA on extraction. Further the concentration of DNA obtained from Cocos nucifera was 4.94, 4.7, 5.25 and 8.25 µg\ml by simple, Edward PCI and CTAB methods respectively and for Borassus flabellifer the concentration DNA isolated was found to be 2.48, 2.14, 4.25, 6.4 µg\ml by simple, Edward PCI and CTAB methods respectively.
A Review on Management of Amblyopia
Authors: Kolhe Khushboo , Diaghvane Sachin
Published: January 2022

Amblyopia is a visual cortex neurodevelopmental condition cause am vision abnormalities during childhood. It is one of the most typical causes of vision loss at an early age. It occurs due to abnormal development of the visual cortex. The part receiving signals from the diseased eye does not receive it correctly and thus develops abnormally. This abnormal development during the critical period of growth of child results in brain damage. Depending on its aetiology the  types of amblyopia are Strabismic amblyopia, Visual deprivation amblyopia, Anisometric, Ametropic, Meridional, Toxic amblyopia.

Clinical features are visual acuity is reduced, the effect of neutral density filter, the Crowding phenomenon is present. Complications of amblyopia include a Lazy eye becoming weak permanently, the eye may move out from the visual axis (squints). When treating amblyopia, our goal is that the eyes will work together in unison at an equal level; this will create a clear vision in the lazy eye. Amblyopia is treated in various ways depending on the seriousness of the disease and the patient's age. Patching of the non-amblyopic eye, as well as treatment with drugs like atropine, are common treatments. Vision therapy and some modifications to spectacles and contact lenses have been discovered to be effective in treating amblyopia in recent years. Modern Treatment- Falling Blocks, Occlu-pad.

With current breakthroughs in amblyopia therapy, the success rate of a multimodal strategy is also improving. The purpose of this review article is to present information on the management of amblyopia. Literature on AMBLYOPIA MANAGEMENT has been taken from PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, and other internet resources.
Stability Indicating HPLC Method for Estimation of Thymoquinone in Nasal Simulated Fluid: Method Development and Validation
Authors: Trivedi Sagar , Deshpande Abhidha , Belgamwar Veena , Bhoyar Vidyadevi , Wadher Kamlesh
Published: January 2022

Introduction: A simple rapid and precise HPLC method was developed for estimation of TH in nasal simulated fluid and stability was assessed in various stressed conditions.

Methods: Chromatographic separation of TH in nasal simulated fluid was done using HPLC AS-4050 coupled with Jasco UV 2075 Plus detector, Jasco LC-Net 11/ADC valve, Jasco PU-2080 pump and hypersil gold C18 (250x6x5 µm) column, ChromNAV 2.0 Chromatography Data System software with mobile phase as acetonitrile: water (65:35) and acetonitrile: NSF (60:40) at a flow rate of 1ml/min and having run time of 10 min with loop volume of 20 µl and detection wavelength of 252 nm. The method was validated for accuracy, precision, linearity, specificity, and sensitivity in accordance with ICH (Q2B) guidelines.

Results: The results of all the validation parameters were found to be within the acceptable limits. The calibration plots were linear over the concentration ranges from 2 to 14µg/ml. The accuracy and precision were found to be between 97.04±0.112 to101.081±0.0191and ≤2% for three drugs. Developed method was successfully applied for the determination TH in nasal simulated fluid and recovery was found to be >98% for three drugs. The degradation products produced as a result of stress studies did not interfere with drug peak.

Conclusion: The developed method was found to be simple, specific, economic, reliable, accurate, precise, and reproducible used as a quality control tool for analysis of pure thymoquinone in nasal simulated fluid.
Role of Forensic Anthropology in Disaster Victim Identification (DVI)
Authors: Sharma Alok , Waghmode Avinash H.
Published: January 2022

DNA profiling is one of the most dependable and well-organized methods for recognizing bodies or losing body parts in disaster victim identification (DVI). This necessitates the collection of a post-mortem DNA sample and an antemortem DNA sample from the alleged victim or a biological related people. Collecting an acceptable ante mortem sample is usually effortless, but because of the varying degree of preservation of the human remains after any disaster and very high risk of cross-contamination of DNA, obtaining an adequate standard post mortem sample under cold DVI conditions is difficult. Various post mortem DNA samples from a deceased person in DVI can be obtained from muscle, bone including femur and ribs, teeth, and bone marrow with the slightest possibility of contamination.

DVI (disaster victim identification) has been used to identify deceased people in various famous disasters like the 9/11 attack of the terrorist group al-Qaeda against the United States, Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur that was shot down on 17 July 2014 while flying over eastern Ukraine. All 283 passengers and 15 crew members were killed; the 26/11 attack on Mumbai in 2008 led by terrorist organizations caused 166 deaths, excluding nine terrorists.

According to Interpol protocol, four steps for identification are given importance:

1 – Site examination, which lasts for days to weeks.

2 – Post-mortem data include fingerprints, odontology, DNA profiling and physical indication.

3 – Ante-mortem data collected from victim houses.

4 – Reconciliation where specialists identify the victim from the data collected.
Pathways of Renal Involvement in COVID-19 Infection
Authors: Ouseph Catherin , Patil Praful
Published: January 2022

The causative agent of the highly infectious pandemic COVID-19 is SARS-CoV-2. According to WHO, as of August 18th 2020, the number of confirmed cases was and confirmed deaths was 771,635 from 216 countries. The most affected organ system in COVID-19 is the respiratory system. Later studies proved that the virus caused multiorgan infections. Several studies shows that SARS-CoV-2 causes damage to the renal system and; critically ill patients with associated renal damage show a higher mortality rate as compared to those patients with an unaffected renal system .This review article aims at updating the knowledge about associated kidney failure in covid-19 cases and its impact on the morbidity and mortality. The virus damages the renal system through two different mechanisms: Direct and Indirect pathway. The direct pathway explains how the virus damages the renal system by directly acting upon the target cells in the kidney.SARS-CoV-2 gains its entry by binding to the ACE2 receptors on the target cell. The SARS-CoV-2 progresses its journey and extensively spread the infection, damaging the kidneys leading to the failure of the renal system. The indirect pathway of damage speaks about the secondary damage caused to the renal system due to cytokine release syndrome caused by SARS-CoV-2.This pathway also points out the formation of microthrombi in the glomerular capillaries and also kidney hypoperfusion. AKI in covid-19 patients can occur secondary to multiorgan failure. This review aims to build a foundation concerning the direct pathway and indirect pathway by means of which SARS-Cov-2 infects the kidneys by summarizing the numerous researches carried out till date to update the knowledge gained thus far to aid in building better protocols for covid-19 management and decrease morbidity caused due to renal damage.
A Cross Sectional Study on Knowledge and Attitude Regarding Exclusive Breast Feeding among Women of Reproductive Age Group in Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Authors: Thanigavel P. Tejesh , Priya F. Margaret Harriet
Published: January 2022

Aim & Objectives: To assess the knowledge and attitude on exclusive breast feeding among reproductive age group women in Chennai.

Materials and Methodology This is a cross sectional quantitative descriptive study. The data was collected by handing out physical questionnaire forms to volunteers or by sending a link of the google form format of the same questionnaire. The data was collected from February 2021 to September 2021. The both physical and online forms data collected were compiled with help of Microsoft Excel. These compiled data were then analyzed using SPSS 16.0 software. All the frequencies and percentages were also obtained from this.

Results: In this study a total of 342 volunteers participated, all belonging to the reproductive age group i.e., 15 years to 45 years. Majority of the participants were among the age group 20 to 30 years belonging to both married and unmarried category. Out of the 342 volunteers, 74.2% (254) of the participants planned to breast feed their infants for several months. 60% of participants had scored more than 75% overall. The lowest score seen was 26/40 points. So no one in my study had low knowledge (less than 20). The knowledge percentage and attitude percentage here are 68.6% 65.4% respectively. My interpretation of the knowledge and attitude is that we need to increase the knowledge about the term “Exclusive Breast Feeding” and also encourage the mothers to breast feed their infants.

Conclusion:  Although most have scored more than 75%, some important questions were chosen incorrectly. This might be mostly due to the fact that there is lack of knowledge with respect to the term “exclusive” breastfeeding. This suggests that there has to be more awareness created amongst the youth population, who are tomorrow’s mothers. The need for them to know the importance of these matters lies in hands being doctors. It should be taught from school level itself.
Effectiveness of Myofascial Release vs High Frequency TENS for Pain Relief and Functional Improvement in College Students with Trapezius Myalgia: A Comparative Study
Authors: Joshi Aditi , Jawade Swapna , Chitale Neha
Published: January 2022

Background: Trapezius Myalgia is characterized by pain in the trapezius muscle. The patient suffering from myalgia usually complaints of pain, stiffness and tightness of the upper trapezius muscle. Acute or chronic neck-shoulder pain is the hallmark of this condition. The pain in the muscle usually lasts for few days or it can be even longer. The presence of spasm in upper trapezius muscle is shown by neck pain in the back of the neck and between the bases of the neck and the shoulder. This protocol has been created that describes the design of experimental study to evaluate and compare the effect of Myofascial Release (MFR) versus High-Frequency TENS for pain relief and functional improvement in subjects with Trapezius Myalgia.

Methods: The participants (n=45) will be recruited in the study suffering from Trapezius Myalgia and meeting the inclusion criteria. Two groups will be formed such that group A will be treated with Myofascial Release technique and group B will be treated with High Frequency TENS modality. The protocol will cover 4 weeks of treatment. Regular assessment will be carried out on 1st and 4th week of the rehabilitation period. During the rehabilitation period, we will evaluate pain status and functional improvement and range of motion of the neck in the subject at regular intervals. Our outcome measures will be – Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) and Neck Disability Index (NDI).

Discussion: The efficacy of the intervention will be evaluated by analyzing pain relief using Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) and functional improvement by using Neck Disability Index (NDI). The result of the study will significantly provide affirmation on using these modalities for treating myalgia patients.
CTAB Reverse Micelles as Catalysts for the Oxidation of Ascorbic Acid by K3[Fe(CN)6]
Authors: Bhargavi K. , Shyamala P. , Chakravarthi P S S , Nagalakshmi K V
Published: January 2022

The oxidation of ascorbic acid by K3[Fe(CN)6] was studied in reverse micellar systems composed of CTAB (Cetyltrimethylammonium bromide), and it was found  the observed first order  (k1(aq) = 5.2×10−5 s−1, k1(rev) = 61.4×10−4 s−1) rate constant in reverse micellar medium is around forty times higher compared to aqueous medium under identical conditions. The rate enhancement (k2(aq) = 0.9×10−5 mole−1.dm3.sec−1, k2(rev) = 1.75×10−3 mole−1.dm3.sec−1)  is attributed to the large concentration effect and lower dielectric constant in the reverse micelles. The rate of the reaction increases with increase in W = {[H2O]/[surfactant]} which is explained in terms of ionic strength of the water pool. The effect of surfactant concentration on rate was explained on the basis of Berezin pseudo phase model. Copyright © 2021 by Authors, Published by BCREC Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
Phenylalanine stacking enhances the red fluorescence of biliverdin IXα on UV excitation in sandercyanin fluorescent protein
Authors: Yadav Keerti , Ghosh Swagatha , Barak Arvind , Schaefer Wayne , Subramanian Ramaswamy
Published: January 2022

Biliverdin IXα (BV) binds to several prokaryotic and eukaryotic proteins. How nature exploits the versatility of BV's properties is not fully understood. Unlike free BV, the Sandercyanin fluorescent protein bound to BV (SFP‐BV) shows enhanced red fluorescence (675 nm) on excitation in the UV region (380 nm). Site‐directed mutagenesis showed that the BV complex of two SFP variants, F55A and E79A, resulted in the loss of red fluorescence. Crystal structures of the complexes of these proteins with BV show the absence of stacking interactions of the F55 phenyl ring with BV. BV changes from ZZZssa conformation in the wild‐type to ZZZsss conformation in the variants. In the nonfluorescent mutants, the lowest excited state is destabilized, resulting in nonradiative decay.
Quality assurance for on‐table adaptive magnetic resonance guided radiation therapy: A software tool to complement secondary dose calculation and failure modes discovered in clinical routine
Authors: Rippke Carolin , Schrenk Oliver , Renkamp C. Katharina , Buchele Carolin , Hörner‐Rieber Juliane , Debus Jürgen , Alber Markus , Klüter Sebastian
Published: January 2022

Online adaption of treatment plans on a magnetic resonance (MR)‐Linac enables the daily creation of new (adapted) treatment plans using current anatomical information of the patient as seen on MR images. Plan quality assurance (QA) relies on a secondary dose calculation (SDC) that is required because a pretreatment measurement is impossible during the adaptive workflow. However, failure mode and effect analysis of the adaptive planning process shows a large number of error sources, and not all of them are covered by SDC. As the complex multidisciplinary adaption process takes place under time pressure, additional software solutions for pretreatment per‐fraction QA need to be used. It is essential to double‐check SDC input to ensure a safe treatment delivery. Here, we present an automated treatment plan check tool for adaptive radiotherapy (APART) at a 0.35 T MR‐Linac. It is designed to complement the manufacturer‐provided adaptive QA tool comprising SDC. Checks performed by APART include contour analysis, electron density map examinations, and fluence modulation complexity controls. For nine of 362 adapted fractions (2.5%), irregularities regarding missing slices in target volumes and organs at risks as well as in margin expansion of target volumes have been found. This demonstrates that mistakes occur and can be detected by additional QA measures, especially contour analysis. Therefore, it is recommended to implement further QA tools additional to what the manufacturer provides to facilitate an informed decision about the quality of the treatment plan.
Reproducibility of deep inspiration breath‐hold technique for left‐side breast cancer with respiratory monitoring device, Abches
Authors: Saito Masahide , Kajihara Daichi , Suzuki Hidekazu , Komiyama Takafumi , Marino Kan , Aoki Shinichi , Ueda Koji , Sano Naoki , Onishi Hiroshi
Published: January 2022

Purpose

This study aimed to evaluate the reproducibility of deep inspiration breath‐hold (DIBH) using a respiratory control device, Abches, in patients with left‐sided breast cancer.

Material and methods

Abches comprises a main body, an indicator panel, and two fulcrums, one each on the chest and abdomen. Forty left side breast cancer patients treated with DIBH using abches were enrolled in this study. For all patients, CT images were taken three times to confirm the target position inside the body and to check the breath‐hold reproducibility. Three anatomical points on the nipple, sternum, and heart were selected as measurement points on CT images. After measuring the coordinates, breath‐hold reproducibility was defined as the mean of the absolute difference in the coordinates between the three CT images. The maximum differences were also investigated. In addition, the dice similarity coefficient (DSC) was calculated to examine the displacement of the heart volume in detail. Moreover, digitally reconstructed radiographs (DRRs) and linac graphs (LGs) were used to measure the positional accuracy of the chest and heart.

Results

The reproducibility in all patients was within 0.75 mm for the nipple, 0.78 mm for the sternum, and 2.18 mm for the heart in each direction. Similarly, the maximum displacements for all patients were within 1.90 mm, 1.69 mm, and 4.75 mm, respectively, in each direction. For heart volume, the average DSC for all cases was 0.93 ± 0.01. The differences between the DRR and LG images were 1.70 ± 1.10 mm and 2.10 ± 1.60 mm, for the chest and heart, respectively.

Conclusion

Our study showed that DIBH using Abches can be performed with good target reproducibility of less than 3 mm with proper breath‐hold practice, whereas the heartbeat‐derived reproducibility of the cardiac position is poor and needs to be monitored carefully during treatment simulation
Adaptive fixed‐time fuzzy control for nonlinear systems with actuator faults
Authors: Bai Wen , Xiaoping Liu Peter , Wang Huanqing
Published: January 2022

This article copes with the adaptive fixed‐time funnel control problem for a class of nonlinear systems with actuator faults. To deal with the difficulties due to actuator faults, which include both lock‐in‐place and loss‐of‐effectiveness models, an adaptive fault‐tolerant control scheme is proposed. By introducing the fuzzy logic system and backstepping technique, an adaptive fixed‐time controller is developed to ensure that the tracking error converges into a pre‐specified performance funnel within a fixed time, which is independent on the initial state, and in the meantime, the controlled closed‐loop system remains semi‐global fixed‐time bounded stable and all the signals are bounded. Simulation results verify the proposed approach.
P‐Doped NiTe2 with Te‐Vacancies in Lithium–Sulfur Batteries Prevents Shuttling and Promotes Polysulfide Conversion
Authors: Yao Weiqi , Tian Chengxiang , Yang Chao , Xu Jie , Meng Yufeng , Manke Ingo , Chen Nan , Wu Ziling , Zhan Liang , Wang Yanli , Chen Renjie
Published: January 2022

Lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries have been hindered by the shuttle effect and sluggish polysulfide conversion kinetics. Here, a P‐doped nickel tellurium electrocatalyst with Te‐vacancies (P⊂NiTe2−x) anchored on maize‐straw carbon (MSC) nanosheets, served as a functional layer (MSC/P⊂NiTe2−x) on the separator of high‐performance Li–S batteries. The P⊂NiTe2−x electrocatalyst enhanced the intrinsic conductivity, strengthened the chemical affinity for polysulfides, and accelerated sulfur redox conversion. The MSC nanosheets enabled NiTe2 nanoparticle dispersion and Li+ diffusion. In situ Raman and ex situ X‐ray absorption spectra confirmed that the MSC/P⊂NiTe2−x restrained the shuttle effect and accelerated the redox conversion. The MSC/P⊂NiTe2−x‐based cell has a cyclability of 637 mAh g‐1 at 4 C over 1800 cycles with a degradation rate of 0.0139% per cycle, high rate performance of 726 mAh g‐1 at 6 C, and a high areal capacity of 8.47 mAh cm‐2 under a sulfur configuration of 10.2 mg cm‐2, and a low electrolyte/sulfur usage ratio of 3.9. This work demonstrates that vacancy‐induced doping of heterogeneous atoms enables durable sulfur electrochemistry and can impact future electrocatalytic designs related to various energy‐storage applications.
A Facile, Protein‐Derived Supramolecular Theranostic Strategy for Multimodal‐Imaging‐Guided Photodynamic and Photothermal Immunotherapy In Vivo
Authors: Cheng Hong‐Bo , Dai Hao , Tan Xiaoqiong , Li Hao , Liang Huihui , Hu Chenyan , Huang Mingwei , Lee Jin Yong , Zhao Jing , Zhou Liming , Wang Yuguang , Zhang Liqun , Yoon Juyoung
Published: January 2022

Theranostic systems that permit both diagnosis and treatment in vivo are highly appealing means by which to meet the demands of precision medicine. However, most such systems remain subject to issues related to complex molecular design and synthesis, potential toxicity, and possible photoactivity changes. Herein, a novel supramolecular theranostic strategy involving biomarker protein activation (BPA) and a host–guest strategy is proposed. To exemplify BPA, a facile “one‐for‐all” nanotheranostic agent for both albumin detection and cancer treatment is demonstrated, which utilizes a nanoparticulate heavy‐atom‐free BODIPY dye derivative (B4 NPs). The fluorescence and photoactivity of BODIPY dyes are completely suppressed by aggregation‐induced self‐quenching in the nanoparticulate state. However, a Balb/c nude mouse model is used to confirm that following the disassembly of injected B4 NPs, BODIPY specifically binds albumin in vivo, accompanied by significantly enhanced biocompatibility and photothermal conversion efficiency. More importantly, this supramolecular host–guest BPA strategy enables the resultant nanoplatform to act as a facile and efficient strategy for photodynamic and photothermal immunotherapy.
Structure, Composition, Transport Properties, and Electrochemical Performance of the Electrode‐Electrolyte Interphase in Non‐Aqueous Na‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Muñoz‐Márquez Miguel Ángel , Zarrabeitia Maider , Passerini Stefano , Rojo Teófilo
Published: January 2022

Rechargeable Li‐ion battery technology has progressed due to the development of a suitable combination of electroactive materials, binders, electrolytes, additives, and electrochemical cycling protocols that resulted in the formation of a stable electrode‐electrolyte interphase. It is expected that Na‐ion technology will attain a position comparable to Li‐ion batteries dependent on advancements in establishing a stable electrode‐electrolyte interphase. However, Li and Na are both alkali metals with similar characteristics, yet the physicochemical properties of these systems differ. For this reason, a detailed study on the electrode‐electrolyte interphase properties, composition, and structure is required to understand the factors that influence the battery's behavior. Herein, the research that has been performed on the electrode‐electrolyte interphase for both anode and cathode in the most important families of electrode materials, including carbonate ester‐based and advanced electrolytes such as ether‐based carbonates and ionic liquids is presented.
Light‐Induced Solid‐State Protrusion of Gold Nanowires and Their Derivatives for Sensing Applications
Authors: Wang Shuangshuang , Yao Jiacheng , Lu Xiaolin , Ding Tao
Published: January 2022

Gold nanowires (AuNWs) have been one of the key components for nanoelectronics and optoelectronic devices but the fabrication has been poorly customized for this purpose even though diverse synthetic strategies bloomed over the last decades. Here, the concept of light‐induced protrusion of AuNWs directly from solid state substrate is demonstrated, which is highly compatible for on‐chip fabrication of functional nanodevices. This is realized by irradiating the Au ion‐doped titanium dioxide (TiO2) films with continuous wave laser. The blue laser triggers the reduction and nucleation of Au(0) which grows vertically into AuNW bundles with diffusion‐controlled supply of Au ions within the TiO2 matrix. Thus, the morphology of the AuNWs can be tuned with irradiation time/power as well as the ion concentration, which can derive into Au nanorings (NRs) and NR stacks in 1D photonic crystal with reduced plasmon linewidth. Such light‐induced protrusion can also generate nanopillars by introducing Au seeds before irradiation. The surface‐enhanced Raman scattering performance of the AuNW bundles is excellent with fm detection limit. Such laser‐directed solid‐state growth technique is facile, versatile, cost‐effective site‐selective, ligand‐free, and wafer‐scalable, which opens up many promising applications in (bio)chemical sensing, photovoltaics, photocatalysis, plasmonic displays, and integrated nanoelectronic/optoelectronic devices.
Recent Progress in Production Methods for Cellulose Nanocrystals: Leading to More Sustainable Processes
Authors: Tang Yimian , Yang Han , Vignolini Silvia
Published: January 2022

Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) are a new class of biodegradable nanomaterial derived from the most abundant and renewable biomass on the planet: cellulose. Due to their potential as a low carbon footprint nanomaterial, CNCs have received significant interest in the community for a wide variety of applications. In this review, the most recent strategies exploited to produce CNCs are therefore summarized, focusing on the “greener” isolation methods aiming at minimizing the environmental impact of their production. The environmental impact of each CNCs production method is qualitatively evaluated and the properties of the CNCs obtained are discussed. Finally, the necessary steps to address the development of the field in the industrial context are discussed, focusing on the type of applications where the CNCs can be exploited.
Heterointerface Engineering of Hierarchically Assembling Layered Double Hydroxides on Cobalt Selenide as Efficient Trifunctional Electrocatalysts for Water Splitting and Zinc‐Air Battery
Authors: Song Junnan , Chen Ying , Huang Hongjiao , Wang Jiajun , Huang Shao‐Chu , Liao Yen‐Fa , Fetohi Amani E. , Hu Feng , Chen Han‐yi , Li Linlin , Han Xiaopeng , El‐Khatib K. M. , Peng Shengjie
Published: January 2022

Engineering of structure and composition is essential but still challenging for electrocatalytic activity modulation. Herein, hybrid nanostructured arrays (HNA) with branched and aligned structures constructed by cobalt selenide (CoSe2) nanotube arrays vertically oriented on carbon cloth with CoNi layered double hydroxide (CoSe2@CoNi LDH HNA) are synthesized by a hydrothermal‐selenization‐hybridization strategy. The branched and hollow structure, as well as the heterointerface between CoSe2 and CoNi LDH guarantee structural stability and sufficient exposure of the surface active sites. More importantly, the strong interaction at the interface can effectively modulate the electronic structure of hybrids through the charge transfer and then improves the reaction kinetics. The resulting branched CoSe2@CoNi LDH HNA as trifunctional catalyst exhibits enhanced electrocatalytic performance toward oxygen evolution/reduction and hydrogen evolution reaction. Consequently, the branched CoSe2@CoNi LDH HNA exhibits low overpotential of 1.58 V at 10 mA cm−2 for water splitting and superior cycling stability (70 h) for rechargeable flexible Zn‐air battery. Theoretical calculations reveal that the construction of heterostructure can effectively lower the reaction barrier as well as improve electrical conductivity, consequently favoring the enhanced electrochemical performance. This work concerning engineering heterostructure and topography‐performance relationship can provide new guidance for the development of multifunctional electrocatalysts.
Superhydrophobic zeolitic imidazolate framework with suitable SOD cage for effective CH4/N2 adsorptive separation in humid environments
Authors: Liu Jiaqi , Tang Xuan , Liang Xiaowu , Wu Luogang , Zhang Feifei , Shi Qi , Yang Jiangfeng , Dong Jinxiang , Li Jinping
Published: January 2022

Various adsorbents for CH4/N2 separation were developed to enrich low‐concentration coal‐mine methane. Most are hydrophilic and cannot treat moist coal‐mine methane. We report for the first time a microporous zeolitic imidazolate framework Co(dcIm)2 (TUT‐100) with superhydrophobic properties for CH4/N2 separation. The CH4 adsorption capacity and CH4/N2 selectivity were as high as 45.29 cm3/cm3 and 6.3 (298 K, 1 bar), respectively, which results from the suitable SOD cage size (0.80 nm). The H2O adsorption was lower than 6.3 cm3/g at 298 K and near saturated pressure due to the hydrophobic group Cl. Breakthrough experiments were carried out to indicate the significant potential for CH4/N2 adsorption separation in a humid environment. The adsorption behavior of the gas mixture on the TUT‐100 was investigated by the Grand Canonical Monte Carlo method and coupled with the experimental data.
The recurrent homozygous translation start site variant in CCDC134 in an individual with severe osteogenesis imperfecta of non‐Morrocan ancestry
Authors: Ali Taccyanna M. , Linnenkamp Bianca D. W. , Yamamoto Guilherme L. , Honjo Rachel S. , Cabral de Menezes Filho Hamilton , Kim Chong Ae , Bertola Débora R.
Published: January 2022

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a rare low‐bone mass skeletal Mendelian disorder characterized by bone fragility leading to bone fractures, with deformities and stunted growth in the more severe phenotypes. Other common, nonskeletal findings include blue sclerae and dentinogenesis imperfecta. It is caused mainly by quantitative or structural defects in type I collagen, although dysregulation of different signaling pathways that play a role in bone morphogenesis has been described to be associated with a small fraction of individuals with OI. Recently, a homozygous variant in the translation start site of CCDC134, showing increased activation of the RAS/MAPK signaling pathway, has been reported in three families of Moroccan origin with a severe, deforming form of OI. We report on a 9‐year‐old Brazilian boy, harboring the same homozygous variant in CCDC134, also presenting severe bone involvement. This report contributes to the phenotypic delineation of this novel autosomal recessive form of OI, which presents with high prevalence of nonunion fractures considered rare events in OI in general. In addition, it expands the phenotype to include base skull anomalies, potentially leading to serious complications, as seen in severe forms of OI. A poor response to bisphosphonate therapy was observed in these individuals. As the variant in CCDC134 leads to dysregulation of the RAS/MAPK signaling pathway, drugs targeted to this pathway could be an alternative to achieve a better management of these individuals.
Ehlers‐Danlos/myopathy overlap syndrome caused by a large de novo deletion in COL12A1
Authors: Coppens Sandra , Desmyter Laurence , Koch Manuel , Özcelik Semra , O'Heir Emily , Van Bogaert Patrick , Vilain Catheline , Christiaens Florence
Published: January 2022

Autosomal dominant and recessive mutations in COL12A1 cause the Ehlers‐Danlos/myopathy overlap syndrome. Here, we describe a boy with fetal hypokinesia, severe neonatal weakness, striking hyperlaxity, high arched palate, retrognathia, club feet, and pectus excavatum. His motor development was initially delayed but muscle strength improved with time while hyperlaxity remained very severe causing recurrent joint dislocations. Using trio exome sequencing and a copy number variation (CNV) analysis tool, we identified an in‐frame de novo heterozygous deletion of the exons 45 to 54 in the COL12A1 gene. Collagen XII immunostaining on cultured skin fibroblasts demonstrated intracellular retention of collagen XII, supporting the pathogenicity of the deletion. The phenotype of our patient is slightly more severe than other cases with dominantly acting mutations, notably with the presence of fetal hypokinesia. This case highlights the importance of CNVs analysis in the COL12A1 gene in patients with a phenotype suggesting Ehlers‐Danlos/myopathy overlap syndrome.
H2O2‐Promoted Alkoxyalkylation of Terminal Alkynes Employing Two Strategies with Transition‐Metal‐Free Conditions
Authors: Hua Hui‐Liang , Wang Guo‐Ping , Cheng Jing‐Li , Liang Yong‐Min , Zhao Jin‐Hao
Published: January 2022

H2O2‐promoted alkoxyalkylation of terminal alkynes by employing two strategies were developed, this is the first example of the direct C(sp3)−H functionalization of ethers to prepare 2‐vinyl heterocycles by using H2O2 as the radical initiator and oxidant. Particularly, this transformation could be conducted without expensive photocatalysts or transition metal catalysts under mild conditions.
Rh(III)‐Catalyzed C−H Activation/Annulation of N‐Methyl Arylhydrazines with Iodonium Ylides toward Ring‐fused Cinnolines
Authors: Pan Changduo , Yuan Cheng , Chen Dongdong , Chen Yuefeng , Yu Jin‐Tao
Published: January 2022

The first Rh(III)‐catalyzed annulation of N‐methyl arylhydrazines with iodonium ylides was developed. This transformation undergoes cascade C−H activation/annulation, dehydration and demethylative aromatization under very simple reaction conditions, providing a series of oxycycloalkyl‐fused cinnolines in good yields.
Finite element analysis of crenulated and non‐crenulated hominid molars: A functional hypothesis explaining the adaptive significance of molar crenulation
Authors: Cano‐Fernández Hugo , Jernvall Jukka
Published: January 2022

Objectives

The occlusal surface of many mammalian teeth has grooves that have been collectively called crenulations. The evolutionary significance of this trait is unknown, but it has been associated with a hard diet. It has not been explained, however, why crenulated molars may present an increased mechanical resistance. The objective of this study was to determine whether a crenulated surface dissipate mechanical stress more efficiently than a smooth one.

Materials and methods

Using μCT scans we built 3D models of lower second molars from Homo, Pan, Gorilla, and Pongo. The crenulated models from Homo and Pongo were modified to remove crenulations. Finite element analysis was used to determine the distribution of mechanical stress in all the models when a vertical force was applied.

Results

The results show that crenulated molars have a distinctive pattern of mechanical stress, namely the stress is higher in the valleys than in the crests of the crenulations. In non‐crenulated molars, mechanical stress is more homogeneously distributed. Highly crenulated molars of orangutans show the smallest values of mean stress among the compared species. Artificially removing crenulations results in more homogeneous distribution of stresses and increased mean stress values.

Conclusions

Molar crenulations may increase molar resistance by canalizing mechanical stress from the tip to the base of the cusps. The overall cusp shape also influences the distribution of stress. This mechanism may be a functional hypothesis to explain the association between crenulated molars and mechanically demanding diets.
Porphyrin‐Based COF 2D Materials: Variable Modification of Sensing Performances by Post‐Metallization
Authors: Liu Ming , Chen Yong‐Jun , Huang Xin , Dong Long‐Zhang , Lu Meng , Guo Can , Yuan Daqiang , Chen Yifa , Xu Gang , Li Shun‐Li , Lan Ya‐Qian
Published: January 2022

2D nanomaterials with flexibly modifiable surfaces are highly sought after for various applications, especially in room‐temperature chemiresistive gas sensing. Here, we have prepared a series of COF 2D nanomaterials (porphyrin‐based COF nanosheets (NS)) that enabled highly sensitive and specific‐sensing of NO2 at room temperature. Different from the traditional 2D sensing materials, H2‐TPCOF was designed with a largely reduced interlayer interaction and predesigned porphyrin rings as modifiable sites on its surfaces for post‐metallization. After post‐metallization, the metallized M‐TPCOF (M=Co and Cu) showed remarkably improved sensing performances. Among them, Co‐TPCOF exhibited highly specific sensing toward NO2 with one of the highest sensitivities of all reported 2D materials and COF materials, with an ultra‐low limit‐of‐detection of 6.8 ppb and fast response/recovery. This work might shed light on designing and preparing a new type of surface‐highly‐modifiable 2D material for various chemistry applications.
Modular Halogenation, α‐Hydroxylation, and Acylation by a Remarkably Versatile Polyketide Synthase
Authors: Hemmerling Franziska , Meoded Roy A. , Fraley Amy E. , Minas Hannah A. , Dieterich Cora L. , Rust Michael , Ueoka Reiko , Jensen Katja , Helfrich Eric J. N. , Bergande Cedric , Biedermann Maurice , Magnus Nancy , Piechulla Birgit , Piel Jörn
Published: January 2022

Bacterial multimodular polyketide synthases (PKSs) are large enzymatic assembly lines that synthesize many bioactive natural products of therapeutic relevance. While PKS catalysis is mostly based on fatty acid biosynthetic principles, polyketides can be further diversified by post‐PKS enzymes. Here, we characterized a remarkably versatile trans‐acyltransferase (trans‐AT) PKS from Serratia that builds structurally complex macrolides via more than ten functionally distinct PKS modules. In the oocydin PKS, we identified a new oxygenation module that α‐hydroxylates polyketide intermediates, a halogenating module catalyzing backbone γ‐chlorination, and modular O‐acetylation by a thioesterase‐like domain. These results from a single biosynthetic assembly line highlight the expansive biochemical repertoire of trans‐AT PKSs and provide diverse modular tools for engineered biosynthesis from a close relative of E. coli.
Calix[4]pyrrolato Stannate(II): A Tetraamido Tin(II) Dianion and Strong Metal‐Centered σ‐Donor
Authors: Ruppert Heiko , Greb Lutz
Published: January 2022

Anionic, metal‐centered nucleophiles are emerging compounds with unique reactivities. Here, we describe the isolation and full characterization of the first tetraamido tin(II) dianion, its behavior as ligand towards transition metals, and its reactivity as a tin‐centered nucleophile. Experimental values such as the Tolman electronic parameter (TEP) and computations attest tin‐located σ‐donor ability exceeding that of carbenes or electron‐rich phosphines. Against transition metals, the stannate(II) can act as η1‐ or η5‐type ligand. With aldehydes, it reacts by hydride substitution to give valuable acyl stannates. The reductive dehalogenation of iodobenzene indicates facile redox pathways mediated by halogen bond interaction. Calix[4]pyrrolato stannate(II) represents the first example of this macrocyclic ligand in low‐valent p‐block element chemistry.