bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of the Effects of Stone Herbal Mixture Drink on Liver Parameters
Authors: O.S. Usiobeigbe , K.O. Iyevhobu , K.O. Obohwemu , L.E. Omolumen , I.C. Idehen , E. Asibor , A. Udoaka, , A.J. Adeji , R.E. Ikede , O.E. Omoviye , S.B. Lagundoye , M.E. Echekwube , S.T. Isiaka
Published: December 2024

Background: Herbal treatments have been used for ages, across many countries and traditions to maintain health and treat diseases. Herbal medicines are sometimes seen as all-natural substitutes for traditional drugs, providing a possible means of advancing health and fitness. Investigating how herbal mixes affect various physiological characteristics, such as liver function, has drawn more attention in recent years. The stone herbal concoction under examination is made up of a number of plant-based ingredients, with unique therapeutic effects.
Methods: Thirty-six (36) wistar rats in total, split into six (6) groups of six (6) animals each, participated in this experimental study: In Group 1, the control group received only water and top feed; in Group 2, the standard medication (Sylimarin, 140 mg/kg body weight) plus 0.30 ml of stone herbal mixture was given; in Group 3, 0.30 ml of stone herbal mixture was given; in Group 4, 0.25 ml was given; in Group 5, 0.20 ml was given; and in Group 6, 0.15 ml was given. The rats were ethically sacrificed by cervical dislocation after receiving the daily therapy for 21 days. Each rat's brachiocephalic artery was used to draw blood, which was then placed in a lithium haparin anticoagulant bottle and examined for liver parameters.
Results: Group 3, 4, 5 & 6 which contains 1000mg, 850mg, 650mg and 500mg of the stone herbal mixture showed significant increase of all liver enzymes when compared to the control group. Also, the group two administered with 1000mg of the stone herbal mixture and 140 mg of the standard drug, sylimarine totally reversed toxicity in all the liver function parameters (ALT, AST, ALP, GGT, Albumin, Total protein, Bilirubin, AFP, TNF) compared to the control group one.  Groups 3, 4, 5 and 6 which contains 1000mg, 850mg, 650mg and 500mg of the stone herbal mixture showed significant decrease of Albumin, bilirubin and total protein with while the 500mg dose of herbal mixture in group 6 was increased.
Conclusion: In conclusion, this study has unveiled valuable insights into the effects of the Stone Herbal Mixture on liver parameters in male albino Wistar rats. Our result demonstrated that the lowest dose of the stone herbal mixture which is 500 mg is tolerable with the liver as against other higher doses in this experiment.
Character Association and Path Analysis in Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia L.) for Yield and Its Attributes
Authors: Singh Shalu , Verma Shashiprabha , Kumar Sunil , Soni Shweta , Neetu  , Dwivedi S.V , Kumar Hitesh
Published: December 2024

The field experiment was carried out in Department of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture at Banda University of Agriculture and Technology during kharif to evaluate the 15 bitter gourd genotypes with three replications in randomized block design were to correlation and path coefficient for yield and its component traits. At phenotypic level fruit yield per plot displayed positive and highly significant correlation with internodal length, number of fruits per plant, average fruit weight, fruit length, vine length and number of primary branches per plant. At genotypic level fruit yield per plot exhibited positive and significant correlation with number of primary branches per plant, intermodal length, number of fruits per plant, vine length, average fruit weight and fruit length.
Path analysis at phenotypic level have highest positive direct effect on yield per plot was exerted by average fruit weight followed by number of fruits per plant, days to first male flower anthesis, node number to first pistillate flower, fruit length, intermodal length and node number to first stamin ate flower. At genotypic level, highest positive direct effect on yield per plot was exerted by average fruit weight followed by number of fruits per plant, internodal length, node number to first pistillate flower, TSS and days to first female flower anthesis.
Determination of Trace Metal Composition in Ambient Air from Open Burning of Solid Waste in Aiyekale, Nigeria
Authors: Popoola Adewemimo Oluwakunmi , Jimoda Lukuman Adekilekun , Alade Abass Olanrewaju , Raji Wuraola Abake , Oloyede Christopher Tunji , Edun Joseph Olaoluwa , Oyerinde Kazeem Kolawole
Published: December 2024

Open burning of solid municipal waste uncontrolledly presents an environmental menace, which exacerbate air pollution and poses considerable health risks in most developing countries. This study aims at investigating the seasonal deposition fluxes, trace metal concentrations and determination of scavenging ratios of the identified metals, resulting from such practice in Aiyekale, Kwara State, Nigeria. The particulate matter of both dry and wet samples was collected using deposition gauges. The elemental composition of particulates collected was analyzed using Energy-Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy (EDX-RF). The deposition velocity and scavenging ratio were used to study the removal mechanics of trace metal composition of the ambient air in open burning of solid waste area. The average flux rate in the wet and dry seasons was evaluated to be 3.57 × 10-6 g/m2.s, and 2.28 × 10-5 g/m2.s, respectively. For the study area, the deposition velocities for the trace metals ranged from 5.288 × 10-5 to 4.818 × 10-3 m/s while the estimated scavenging ratio was between 0.61 – 3.96 in the study area. It was obtained from the result that Au, Mn, and Zn were better removed by gravitational particle settling while Fe, Ti, and Rh were scavenged by precipitation. The results show extremely high levels of trace metals above prescribed thresholds, highlighting the need for international cooperation in resolving air quality concerns and developing regulations targeted at lowering emissions from the burning of solid waste in the study environment.
Harnessing Biostimulants to Mitigate Abiotic Stress in Soybean Production: An Overview
Authors: Sankhala Jyoti , Waktaliya Arun , Raghuvanshi Rishiraj , Shende R. T. , Maske Ganesh , Barman Dipankar
Published: December 2024

Abiotic stress factors, such as drought, temperature extremes, and soil salinity, significantly impact soybean (Glycine max) growth, yield, and quality. In recent years, biostimulants have emerged as a promising solution to improve crop resilience against these stresses. Biostimulants, derived from natural sources, enhance plant growth and tolerance by stimulating physiological and biochemical processes essential for stress adaptation. This study focuses on the application of biostimulants to mitigate abiotic stress in soybean, examining their effects on growth parameters, yield stability, and biochemical responses under stress conditions. Specifically, biostimulants based on seaweed extracts, amino acids, and microbial inoculants have shown considerable potential in promoting soybean resilience by enhancing water-use efficiency, modulating antioxidant systems, and improving nutrient absorption. The findings highlight the importance of biostimulants in sustainable agriculture, offering insights into optimizing their use to improve soybean production in challenging environmental conditions.
Impact of Standard Differences on Position in Agricultural Global Value Chains
Authors: Dong Yinguo , Shan Zhanyao , Du Jian
Published: December 2024

The development of agricultural global value chains (AGVCs) has led to the rapid development of intermediate goods trade, agricultural products need to cross between several countries, so that more different technical standards such as SPS (Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures) / TBT (Technical Barriers to Trade) between countries have been imposed by countries around the world with regard to the quality and safety of agricultural products, which lead the burden of trade costs increase prominent. This paper examines whether the extent to which SPS/TBT measures differ between countries in the agricultural sector affects their position in global value chains, based on the bilateral trade value added data in the OECD inter-country input-output database, combing the social network analysis and UNCTAD database from 2010 to 2018, measure the positions of countries in the agricultural global value chains and the standard differences of SPS/TBT among countries. We use the gravity model to empirically inspect the impact of the SPS/TBT standards heterogeneity between countries (regions) on the AGVCs position. We find: (1) structural differences in SPS/TBT standards among countries negatively affect the centrality of GVCs; (2) the negative impact of standards difference on the total and forward centrality is more serious than backward centrality; (3) The negative impact of the SPS/TBT difference is more pronounced in developing countries.
Clinical experience and treatment considerations with vesicular monoamine transport 2 inhibitors
Authors: Johnson Kayla
Published: December 2024

Vesicular monoamine transporter 2 inhibitors (VMAT2i) are currently Food and Drug Administration–approved for the treatment of Huntington disease chorea and tardive dyskinesia. Additionally, they are often used for other hyperkinetic movement disorders in clinical practice. Due to a lack of head-to-head clinical trials, management of VMAT2i in the clinical setting may be unclear and rely on the clinical experience of the practitioner. Due to the limited distribution model, which typically requires VMAT2i to be dispensed by specialty pharmacies, access and initiation of treatment may present as barriers. Patient cases allow for the exploration of switching between VMAT2i, alternative routes of administration, utilization in pediatric and off-label conditions, and how to successfully initiate and monitor a patient on VMAT2i therapy.
Involuntary medication treatment of schizophrenia in the inpatient setting
Authors: Iuppa Courtney A.
Published: December 2024

Two Supreme Court cases in the United States describe the use of involuntary medication in individuals with mental illnesses. In addition to these legal requirements, clinicians must also incorporate ethics into treating these individuals, including the principles of autonomy and beneficence. Current guidelines do not provide specific recommendations for choosing an antipsychotic for a patient with schizophrenia who is being treated involuntarily. However, it is recommended that clinicians use general guidelines for the treatment of schizophrenia as a basis for narrowing down appropriate therapy, which may involve the use of long-acting injectable antipsychotics. Clinical considerations that should be accounted for include past medication trials, potential adverse effects, whether tolerability has been demonstrated, route of administration, dosing interval, requirement for oral overlap, comorbid conditions, patient preference, and access to the medication.
Suicide risk identification and mitigation in patients with chronic pain prescribed opioid medication
Authors: Chiulli Dana L.
Published: December 2024

Managing suicidality in persons with chronic pain is a challenging clinical scenario with no treatment guidelines to inform clinical decision-making related to suicide risk mitigation. Applying appropriate risk mitigation strategies, such as opioid education and naloxone distribution, lethal means safety education, increased frequency of appointments, individualized opioid tapers, consideration of nonopioid pharmacotherapy, nonpharmacological treatment options, and addressing modifiable risk factors, can decrease suicide risk. Recommending a treatment plan for patients with chronic pain experiencing suicidality is explored through 3 patient cases.
Appropriate use of single-dose injectable aripiprazole lauroxil in the treatment of schizophrenia
Authors: Davis Rachael C. , Xu Jianing , Hall Daniel B. , Chen Xianyan , Moretz Michaelyn M. , Young Henry N. , Caballero Joshua
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Single-dose injectable aripiprazole lauroxil (SDIAL) is used with long-acting injectable (LAI) aripiprazole lauroxil in the treatment of schizophrenia. SDIAL can be used to either initiate treatment or supplement during maintenance when follow-up doses are not given within labeling recommendations. The primary objective was to determine the usage and appropriateness of SDIAL between the initiation and the maintenance supplementation use in a Medicaid database. The secondary objective was to determine the overall associated costs with the potentially inappropriate use of LAI aripiprazole lauroxil.

Methods: International Classification of Diseases, 10th edition codes were used to identify adult patients with schizophrenia and related disorders (18-64 years) who received SDIAL and/or LAI aripiprazole lauroxil between 2018 and 2020 using MarketScan Medicaid databases. The appropriateness of SDIAL was determined by package insert labeling timelines for treatment initiation and maintenance supplementation. Two authors independently reviewed each SDIAL claim for appropriateness. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data.

Results: After excluding possible billing errors, a total of 582 claims were identified for SDIAL. Of these, 21% were potentially inappropriate, with a higher proportion occurring during the maintenance phase. Overall, potential inappropriate use resulted in costs over $307 000.

Discussion: It appears that prescribers should be better educated on the appropriate use of SDIAL during maintenance supplementation.
ABOUT THE GEOGENIC FLUOR ELEMENT AND DENTAL FLUOROSIS IN THE STATE OF BAHIA, BRAZIL
Authors: Cruz Manoel Jeronimo  Moreira , Gonçalves Manuel Vitor Portugal Gonçalves , Otero Olga Maria Fragueiro Otero , Santos Rodrigo Alves Santos
Published: December 2024

The findings between the relationships between the geological/geochemical environment and the health of populations, based on the effect of the chemical element fluor of geogenic origin present in the groundwater of several locations in the State of Bahia, Brazil present numbers that indicate values of the order of 0.4 mg/L F, as a risk to populations, 0.4 to 0.8 mg/L F as a protective factor and >0.8 mg/L F as a myth prone to dental fluorosis.
Analyses of water for human consumption, in particular fluor concentrations, represent an important planning and decision-making tool for managers and municipal bodies regarding water fluoridation and the presence of natural fluoride. The results presented can promote prevention strategies for a series of diseases, including dental fluorosis and highlight, in a striking way, the importance of geogenic materials and the health of populations.
Adaptive cooperative tracking control of uncertain nonlinear multiagent systems with uncertain Markov switching communication graphs
Authors: Xing Mali , Deng Feiqi
Published: August 2019

This paper deals with the cooperative tracking problem of nonlinear multiagent systems. Compared with the existing works, both the uncertainties in model and switching topology are considered. Two control laws, the adaptive distributed controller based on state information and the adaptive distributed controller based on output information, are proposed using the neural networks. The advantage of the proposed controller is that we no longer require the exact knowledge of follower agents' parameters and the precise switching signal of communication topology by taking advantages of neural networks approximation and the property of transition probabilities. It is proved that all followers can track the leader with permitted bounded errors under the proposed controller. An illustration is given to testify the efficacy of the proposed approach.
Growth and Raman Scattering Investigation of a New 2D MOX Material: YbOCl
Authors: Yao Yuyu , Zhang Yu , Xiong Wenqi , Wang Zhenxing , Sendeku Marshet Getaye , Li Ningning , Wang Junjun , Huang Wenhao , Wang Feng , Zhan Xueying , Yuan Shengjun , Jiang Chao , Xia Congxin , He Jun
Published: August 2019

MOX (M = Fe, Co, Mn, Cr, Lanthanide, or Actinide metals; O = oxygen, X = F, Cl, Br, I), an emerging type of 2D layered materials, have been theoretically predicted to possess unique electronic and magnetic properties. However, 2D MOX have rarely been investigated. Herein, for the first time, ultrathin high‐quality ytterbium oxychloride (YbOCl) single crystals are successfully synthesized via an atmospheric pressure chemical vapor deposition method. Both theoretical simulations and experimental measurements are utilized to systematically investigate the Raman properties of 2D YbOCl nanosheets. The experimentally observed Eg mode at 85.53 cm−1 and A1g mode at 138.17 cm−1 demonstrate a good match to the results from density functional theory calculations. Furthermore, the temperature‐dependent and thickness‐dependent Raman scattering spectra reveal the adjacent layers in YbOCl nanosheets show a relatively weak van der Waals interaction. Additionally, the polarized‐dependent Raman scattering spectra show the intensity of A1g mode exhibits twofold patterns while the intensity of the Eg mode remains constant as the rotation angle changes. These findings could provide the first‐hand experimental information about the 2D YbOCl crystals.
Understanding, Optimizing, and Utilizing Nonideal Transistors Based on Organic or Organic Hybrid Semiconductors
Authors: Yang Tengzhou , Wu Qian , Dai Fuhua , Huang Kairong , Xu Huihua , Liu Chenning , Chen Changdong , Hu Sujuan , Liang Xiaoci , Liu Xuying , Noh Yong‐Young , Liu Chuan
Published: August 2019

Many advanced materials have been developed for organic field‐effect transistors (OFETs) or thin‐film transistors (TFTs) based on organic and organic hybrid materials. However, although many new OFETs exhibit superior characteristic parameters (such as high mobility), most of them show nonideal performances that have strongly limited progress in the design of molecules, the understanding of transport mechanisms, and the circuit applications of OFETs. In this review, the device physics of ideal and nonideal OFETs is discussed first to understand the factors that limit effective mobility in semiconducting channels, distort the potential distribution, or reduce the drift electric field. Then, recent advances in optimizing the material combinations, device structures, and fabrications of OFETs toward ideal transistors are discussed. Based on the good control of materials and interfaces, some new and novel concepts to utilize the nonideal properties of OFETs to build low‐power circuits and integrated sensors are also discussed.
Dual Emission of Water‐Stable 2D Organic–Inorganic Halide Perovskites with Mn(II) Dopant
Authors: Ba Qiankai , Jana Atanu , Wang Lihua , Kim Kwang S.
Published: August 2019

Moisture‐delicate and water‐unstable organic–inorganic halide perovskites (OI‐HPs) create huge challenges for the synthesis of highly efficient water‐stable light‐emitting materials for optoelectronic devices. Herein, a simple acid solution–assisted method to synthesize quantum confined 2D lead perovskites through Mn doping is reported. The efficient energy transfer between host and dopant ions in orange light‐emitting Mn2+‐doped OI‐HPs leads to the most efficient integrated luminescence with a photoluminescence quantum yield over 45%. The Mn2+ substitution of Pb2+ and passivation with low dielectric constant molecules such as phenethylamine, benzylamine, and butylamine enhance water resistivity, leading to water stability. The dual emission process of this water‐stable 2D Mn‐doped perovskite will help in developing highly efficient 2D water‐stable perovskites for practical applications.
Atomic Pd on Graphdiyne/Graphene Heterostructure as Efficient Catalyst for Aromatic Nitroreduction
Authors: Li Jiaqiang , Zhong Lixiang , Tong Lianming , Yu Yue , Liu Qing , Zhang Shuchen , Yin Chen , Qiao Liang , Li Shuzhou , Si Rui , Zhang Jin
Published: August 2019

With the maximum atom‐utilization efficiency, single atom catalysts (SACs) have attracted great research interest in catalysis science recently. To address the following key challenges for the further development of SACs: i) how to stabilize and avoid the aggregation of SACs, ii) how to enhance the specific surface area and conductivity of supports, and iii) how to achieve scalable mass production with low cost, a SAC consisting of single Pd atoms anchored on well‐designed graphdiyne/graphene (GDY/G) heterostructure (Pd1/GDY/G) is synthesized. Pd1/GDY/G exhibits high catalytic performance, as demonstrated by the reduction reaction of 4‐nitrophenol. Furthermore, density functional theory calculation indicates that graphene in the GDY/G heterostructure plays a key role in the enhancement of catalytic efficiency owing to the electron transfer process, deriving from the gap between the Fermi level of graphene and the conduction band minimum of GDY. The GDY/G heterostructure is a promising support for the preparation of extremely efficient and stable SACs, which can be used in a broad range of future industrial reactions.
All‐Silicon Double‐Cavity Fourier‐Transform Infrared Spectrometer On‐Chip
Authors: Eltagoury Yomna M. , Sabry Yasser M. , Khalil Diaa A.
Published: August 2019

It is expected that miniaturized infrared spectrometers will enable spectral sensing anywhere. Their applications are almost infinite, including in smart devices, monitoring of air and water quality, healthcare wearables, among many others. Free‐space on‐chip, or photonic MEMS, interferometers are an attractive solution since they provide the required miniaturization while achieving the optical throughput needed for device sensitivity. A Fourier‐transform spectrometer on‐chip is presented based on cascading silicon broadband photonic MEMS cavities. The double‐cavity configuration shrinks the size of the optical engine dramatically with respect to the Michelson configuration, while overcoming the need for bringing the micromirrors in physical contact as in case of a single cavity. The all‐silicon interfaces provide low enough reflectivity such that the response of the cavity can be approximated by a single harmonic allowing Fourier transform operation of the spectrometer. The spectrometer is fabricated using deep etching of a silicon‐on‐insulator substrate allowing release of movable elements. The optical engine size is 300 µm × 400 µm. The device is tested in the wavelength range of 1.1–2.1 µm and spectroscopy measurement of different materials with 7.5 nm spectral resolution is demonstrated and compared to a reference spectrometer.
Microshell Enhanced Acoustic Adjuvants for Immunotherapy in Glioblastoma
Authors: Wang James , Huang Chin‐Hsin , Echeagaray Oscar H. , Amirfakhri Siamak , Blair Sarah L. , Trogler William C. , Kummel Andrew C. , Chen Clark C.
Published: August 2019

A key challenge in immunotherapy for glioblastomas, the most common form of primary adult brain cancer, involves the paucity of immune‐stimulatory cells in its “cold” immune‐microenvironment. Herein, mechanical acoustic ablation focused by perfluorocarbon (PFC) liquid filled silica microshells is applied to induce immunogenicity via in situ ultrasonic lysis. The inert PFC filled ultra‐thin walled silica microshells promote mechanical ablation while aiding in ultrasound guidance. In the presence of programmed cell death protein 1 (PD‐1) blockade, tumor injury sites exhibit an increase in tumor infiltrating lymphocytes and interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) by 1–2 orders of magnitude. At least 75% of mice grafted with the advanced murine glioblastoma tumors achieve remission when treated with a combination of microshell enhanced ablation and PD‐1 blockade, which indicates a synergistic effect. In contrast, none of the mice treated with single therapies achieve durable remission. Likelihood of remission correlated with the abundance of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (p < 0.001) and IFN‐γ levels (p = 0.001). This study demonstrates a PFC filled ultrathin walled microshell enhanced ablation strategy that induces a “hot” immune‐microenvironment and augments efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade against advanced tumors.
Mechanistic and kinetic investigation of Cu(II)‐catalyzed controlled radical polymerization enabled by ultrasound irradiation
Authors: Bian Chao , Zhou Yin‐Ning , Luo Zheng‐Hong
Published: August 2019

Controlled radical polymerization (CRP) under external field has been an attractive research area in these years. In this work, a new electron transfer mechanism, that is, sonochemically induced electron transfer (SET) was introduced to mediate polymerization for the first time. The activator CuIX/L complex was (re)generated from CuIIX2/L in dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) by the SET process in the presence of free ligand tris(2‐dimethylaminoethyl)amine (Me6TREN). The investigation of polymerization including the mechanistic insights and effect of experimental conditions on the rate of reaction has been undertaken. Kinetics of Cu(II)‐catalyzed CRPs via SET under different conditions (i.e., Me6TREN concentration, catalyst loading, targeted degree of polymerization, and sonication power) were conducted in an unprecedentedly controlled manner, yielding polymers with predetermined molar masses and low dispersities (Đ < 1.12). Attractively, the polymerization can be performed without the piezoelectric nanoparticles and exogenous reducing agent. Contamination by nonliving chains formed from sonochemically generated radicals is avoided as well. All of these results supported that Cu(II)‐based catalyst activation enabled by ultrasonication has a promising potential in scale‐up of CRP.
Exploratory analysis of genetic variants influencing molecular traits in cerebral cortex of suicide completers
Authors: Rodríguez‐López Mariana L. , Martínez‐Magaña José J. , Cabrera‐Mendoza Brenda , Genis‐Mendoza Alma D. , García‐Dolores Fernando , López‐Armenta Mauro , Flores Gonzalo , Vázquez‐Roque Rubén A. , Nicolini Humberto
Published: August 2019

Genetic factors have been implicated in suicidal behavior. It has been suggested that one of the roles of genetic factors in suicide could be represented by the effect of genetic variants on gene expression regulation. Alteration in the expression of genes participating in multiple biological systems in the suicidal brain has been demonstrated, so it is imperative to identify genetic variants that could influence gene expression or its regulatory mechanisms. In this study, we integrated DNA methylation, gene expression, and genotype data from the prefrontal cortex of suicides to identify genetic variants that could be factors in the regulation of gene expression, generally called quantitative trait locus (xQTLs). We identify 6,224 methylation quantitative trait loci and 2,239 expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs) in the prefrontal cortex of suicide completers. The xQTLs identified influence the expression of genes involved in neurodevelopment and cell organization. Two of the eQTLs identified (rs8065311 and rs1019238) were previously associated with cannabis dependence, highlighting a candidate genetic variant for the increased suicide risk in subjects with substance use disorders. Our findings suggest that genetic variants may regulate gene expression in the prefrontal cortex of suicides through the modulation of promoter and enhancer activity, and to a lesser extent, binding transcription factors.
A rigorous process modeling methodology for biomass fast pyrolysis with an entrained‐flow reactor
Authors: Caudle Benjamin H. , Gorensek Maximilian B. , Chen Chau‐Chyun
Published: August 2019

A biomass fast pyrolysis model was developed for implementation in equation‐oriented modeling software. Based on a previous framework of coupled 1‐dimensional mass, momentum, and heat balance equations, this model includes updated reaction kinetics to provide a more detailed representation of biomass components, intermediates, and products. A recently published derivation of thermodynamic properties for the species in this model has allowed the energy balance around the pyrolysis reactor to be rigorously redefined. With these improvements, the optimum pyrolysis temperature for bio‐oil production predicted by the model is increased by up to 50°C, bringing it in line with experimental data and increasing the overall agreement. More importantly, the reactor energy balance is strictly enforced. The resulting model can be used for the design and optimization of biomass fast pyrolysis processes, and comparisons with other options for biomass utilization.
Structural and theoretical studies of the methoxycarbonylation of higher olefins catalysed by (Pyrazolyl‐ethyl)pyridine palladium (II) complexes
Authors: Zulu Siyabonga , Alam Mohd.G. , Ojwach Stephen O. , Akerman Matthew P.
Published: August 2019

Reactions of 2‐[1‐(3,5‐dimethylpyrazol‐1‐yl)ethyl]pyridine (L1) and 2‐[1‐(3,5‐diphenylpyrazol‐1‐yl)ethyl]pyridine (L2) with the [Pd (COD)Cl2] or [Pd (COD)MeCl] produced palladium (II) complexes [Pd(L1)ClMe] (1), [Pd(L1)Cl2] (C2), [Pd(L2)ClMe] (3), and [Pd(L2)Cl2] (4) in quantitative yields. Solid state structures of complexes 1, 3 and 4 established the formation of mononuclear compounds, containing one bidentate ligand unit per metal atom, to give square planar complexes. All the other spectroscopic characterization data and elemental analyses were consistent with the observed structures. All the palladium (II) complexes 1–4 gave active catalysts in the methoxycarbonylation of 1‐octenes. The catalysts demonstrated 100% chemoselectivities towards esters and favored the formation of linear isomers. Reaction conditions such as the type of phosphine derivative, acid promoter, solvent system, time, pressure and temperature have been investigated and shown to affect both the catalytic activity and regio‐selectivity of the catalysts. Solid‐angle modelling established the comparable steric contributions from the ligands, consistent with the similar regioselectivities of the resultant catalysts.
Fe (III)‐grafted Bi2MoO6 nanoplates for enhanced photocatalytic activities on tetracycline degradation and HMF oxidation
Authors: Xue Jinjuan , Huang Chengjuan , Zong Yuqing , Gu Jiandong , Wang Mingxin , Ma Shuaishuai
Published: August 2019

Fe (III)‐grafted Bi2MoO6 nanoplates (Fe (III)/BMO) with varying small quantity of Fe (III) clusters modification were fabricated through a simple hydrothermal and impregnation process. The characterization results indicate that the modification of Fe (III) clusters on the surface of Bi2MoO6 nanoplates with intimate interfacial contact is beneficial to the expansion of visible light absorption range and the separation of photoinduced carriers during the interface charge transfer process. The photocatalytic properties of the samples were studied by degradation of tetracycline (TC) and selective aerobic oxidation of biomass‐derived chemical 5‐hydroxymethylfuraldehyde (HMF) under visible light. The 1.5 wt% Fe (III) clusters‐grafted Bi2MoO6 nanoplates exhibited optimum photocatalytic activity, which is the TC degradation kinetic rate constant is 5.3 times higher than that of bare BMO, and the highest HMF conversion of 32.62% can be obtained with a selectivity of 95.30%. Furthermore, a possible visible light photocatalysis mechanism over Fe (III)/BMO sample has been proposed. This study may supply some insight for the development of visible‐light‐driven Bi2MoO6‐based photocatalysts applicable to both environmental remediation and biomass‐derived chemical transformation.
Effects of space velocity on coking deactivation of HZSM‐5 in methanol to propylene
Authors: Yu Jing , Qian Feng , Wang Jiming
Published: August 2019

The catalytic behavior of ZSM‐5 catalyst under different space velocities has been studied in methanol to propylene (MTP) reaction. The catalysts differed notably in deactivation behavior after the MTP conversion. This is ascribed to the difference in coke location, which was obtained via comparison of the difference in textural properties between the deactivated and regenerated catalysts and the thermogravimetric analysis of coke species. The catalyst deactivated in high space velocity showed a coke deposition on the outer surface of particle, whereas a coke distribution within the whole particle was observed for the catalyst deactivated in low space velocity. The diverging in coke location is arising from the different amount of CH provided by the methanol feeding in different space velocities, which resulted in the formation of different coke species.
Distribution of interface traps in Au/2% GC‐doped Ca3Co4Ga0.001Ox/n‐Si structures
Authors: Eroğlu Ayşe Gül , Yıldırım Mert , Durmuş Perihan , Dökme İlbilge
Published: August 2019

This study presents voltage‐dependent profile of interface traps in Au/n‐Si structure with 2% graphene–cobalt‐doped Ca3Co4Ga0.001Oxinterfacial layer. Admittance measurements revealed capacitance‐voltage (C‐V) plots with typical regions of a metal–insulator–semiconductor structure through inversion, depletion, and accumulation regions. Frequency dispersion is observed in C‐V plots and such behavior was explained with excess capacitance, which is associated with the density of interface traps (Dit) in the structure because largerDitis observed when the measurements are held at low frequencies due to the fact that traps can follow the signal depending on their lifetime.Ditwas also obtained using conductance method, which also provided lifetime of the traps. The difference between the values ofDitwas attributed to the difference in extraction methods. Obtained results showed that Au/2% graphene–cobalt‐doped Ca3Co4Ga0.001Ox/n‐Si structure yields promising electrical characteristics when the structure is operated at high frequencies. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2020,137, 48399.
The evolution of the science of kangaroo (mother) care (skin‐to‐skin contact)
Authors: Kostandy Raouth R. , Ludington‐Hoe Susan M.
Published: August 2019

In the early 1970s, researchers in Ohio, USA, investigated the effects of “Extra Contact” between mothers and their infants early after birth. The “Extra Contact” consisted of the skin‐to‐skin holding of the newborn infant on the mother's bare chest as soon as possible after birth. In the mid 1970s, Rey and Martinez in Bogota Colombia started investigating the same care method and they called it “Kangaroo Care” (KC). Infants are held upright, skin‐to‐skin on the mother's bare chest. KC, also referred to as Kangaroo Mother Care or Skin‐to‐Skin Contact, has been and continue to be investigated for its effects on a plethora of infant, maternal and family outcomes. Evolution of our understanding of the advantages of KC has dramatically changed the care of infants including at risk infants. This article provides a look at the past and present. It also provides insight on how we can shape the future to provide the optimal care for infants, mothers, and the whole family.
Determination of mycophenolic acid in human plasma by ultra‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry and its pharmacokinetic application in kidney transplant patients
Authors: Reséndiz‐Galván Juan Eduardo , Romano‐Aguilar Melissa , Medellín‐Garibay Susanna Edith , Milán‐Segovia Rosa del Carmen , Chevaile‐Ramos Alejandro , Romano‐Moreno Silvia
Published: August 2019

To implement and validate an analytical method by ultra‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC MS/MS) to quantify mycophenolic acid (MPA) in kidney transplant patients. Quantification of MPA was performed in an ACQUITY UPLC H Class system coupled to a Xevo TQD detector and it was extracted from plasma samples by protein precipitation. The chromatographic separation was achieved through an ACQUITY HSS C18 SB column with 0.1% formic acid and acetonitrile (60:40 vol/vol) as mobile phase. The pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated by non‐compartmental analysis of MPA plasma concentrations from 10 kidney transplant patients. The linear range for MPA quantification was 0.2–30 mg/L with a limit of detection of 0.07 mg/L; the mean extraction recovery was 99.99%. The mean intra‐ and inter‐day variability were 2.98% and 3.4% with a percentage of deviation of 8.4% and 6.6%, respectively. Mean maximal concentration of 10 mg/L at 1.5 h, area under the concentration–time curve of 36.8 mg·h/L, elimination half‐life of 3.9 h, clearance of 0.32 L/h/kg and volume of distribution of 1.65 L/kg were obtained from MPA pharmacokinetics profiles. A simple, fast and reliable UPLC–MS/MS method to quantify MPA in plasma was validated and has been applied for pharmacokinetic analysis in kidney transplant patients.
Headspace Solid Phase Microextraction Coupled to GC/MS for the Analysis of Volatiles of Honeys from Arid and Mediterranean Areas of Algeria
Authors: Neggad Abdelhamid , Benkaci‐Ali Farid , Alsafra Zouheir , Eppe Gauthier
Published: August 2019

The volatile composition of seven honey samples collected from various regions of Algeria and feeding on different plants have been determined. The Headspace Solid‐Phase MicroExtraction (HS‐SPME) coupled with Gas Chromatography‐Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) was used to achieve the purpose. In this work, different parameters of the HS‐SPME analytical method were investigated in order to reach maximal sensitivity, and thus to obtain maximum information about the volatile profile of Algerian honey. These parameters include saline medium, HS extraction temperature, and the nature of the fiber used. The results showed a great diversity in the chemical composition, in total 124 compounds from different chemical classes were identified, including compounds found for the first time in honey. The Ascending Hierarchical Classification (AHC) demonstrated the importance of choosing SPME extraction conditions to find volatile compounds, which could be as specific markers of the floral or geographical origin of honey, the latter was optimized in the parameter PDMS‐55 °C.
Acute kidney injury in patients undergoing endovascular therapy for critical limb ischemia
Authors: Prasad Anand , Hughston Haley , Michalek Joel , Trevino Aron , Gupta Kamal , Martinez John P. , Hoang Dale T. , Wu Patrick B. , Banerjee Subhash , Masoomi Reza
Published: August 2019

Background

Similar to coronary angiography and interventions, patients undergoing percutaneous treatment of lower extremity peripheral arterial disease are also at risk of acute kidney injury (AKI). The incidence, risk factors associations, need for dialysis and inhospital mortality related to AKI in patients with critical limb ischemia (CLI) following endovascular therapy is poorly defined.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to analyze data from the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) to determine the aforementioned outcomes in patients with CLI.

Methods

Using the full NIS admission dataset from 2003 through 2012, ICD‐9 codes relevant to comorbid conditions, procedure codes, composite codes for AKI, and inhospital mortality were analyzed using multivariate models.

Results

A total of 273,624 patients were included with a mean age of 70.0 ± 27.4 years, 46.0% were female, 57.2% had diabetes, 43.4% had coronary artery disease (CAD), and 29.2% had chronic kidney disease (CKD). The overall rate of AKI was 10.4%, and there was a temporal rise over the analysis period in AKI incidence (p < .001). Age, diabetes, CKD, and heart failure were all associated with AKI (p < .0001). The inhospital mortality rate in the patients with AKI declined over time but was higher than in patients without AKI (6.0% vs. 1.4%), p < .0001. The mortality rate was substantially higher in patients with AKI requiring dialysis as compared to AKI not requiring dialysis (13.4% vs. 5.6%), p < .0001.

Conclusions

AKI is associated with age, CKD, and heart failure. The incidence of AKI following endovascular therapy for CLI is rising and independently associated with inhospital mortality.
Impact of diastolic dysfunction on long‐term mortality and quality of life after transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Anantha‐Narayanan Mahesh , Malik Umair , Mbai Mackenzi , Megaly Michael , Florea Viorel , Sharma Alok , Cavalcante João L. , Garcia Santiago
Published: August 2019

Background

There is conflicting data as to whether diastolic dysfunction (DD) affects the prognosis of patients with aortic stenosis (AS) undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

Methods

Consecutive patients undergoing TAVR underwent assessment of DD with preoperative echocardiography and NT‐pro BNP. Long‐term survival was ascertained every 6 months by clinic visits or phone. DD was graded according to the new American Society of Echocardiography recommendations. Health status was assessed at baseline and 30 days post‐procedure using the KCCQ‐12 questionnaire. Long‐term survival was displayed using Kaplan–Meier curves according to NT‐pro BNP levels and DD grades.

Results

We included 222 patients, mean age 78 (±8) years, median STS score 4 (interquartile range = 3–7), median follow‐up time 385 days (IQR = 180–640). DD was absent in 25, Grade I in 13, Grade II in 74, Grade III in 24, and indeterminate in 86 patients. Advanced (Grades II–III) DD was associated with higher pre‐procedural NT‐pro BNP levels (p < .001), worse quality of life (p < .001) but similar surgical risk (p = .43). Advanced and indeterminate DD were associated with increased long‐term mortality (25–28% vs. 5%, p = .02) and elevated NT‐pro BNP levels (26.4% vs. 9.8%, p = .05). Improvements in quality of life measures were seen in all DD groups (median change in KCCQ score no or Grade I DD:14 [3–21] vs. Grades II–III DD: 15 [16–26; p = .37]).

Conclusion

Preoperative NT‐pro BNP levels and echocardiographic indices of indeterminate or advanced DD are associated with increased long‐term mortality after TAVR but similar improvements in quality of life.
Effects of flour quality and drying rates controlled by temperature, air circulation, and relative humidity on the quality of dried white‐salted noodles
Authors: Moon Yujin , Kim Kyeong Hoon , Kweon Meera
Published: August 2019

Background and objectives

The production and consumption of dried white‐salted noodles in Korea are higher than that of fresh white‐salted noodles. Flour quality and appropriate drying conditions are essential to produce high‐quality dried noodles. This study aimed to scientifically explore the impact of flour quality and the drying rate, which was controlled by varying the temperature and relative humidity and applying air circulation, on the quality of dried white‐salted noodles.

Findings

Increasing the drying rate by increasing the temperature or applying air circulation/ventilation caused more severe cracks in all the dried white‐salted noodles made from three flours with different ash contents. The noodles dried at 30°C without applying air circulation and those dried using a stepwise drying procedure with controlled relative humidity showed no cracks and remained intact after cooking.

Conclusions

Drying rate was more critical than flour quality to produce noodles with desirable attributes. The application of air circulation is not recommended, even at 30°C, as micro‐cracks form due to internal stress.

Significance and novelty

The negative effect of accelerated drying using increased temperature and circulating air on the quality of dried and cooked white‐salted noodles was reported scientifically for the first time.
Confluent tracheal recurrences of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Bleiberg Benjamin Aaron , Abu‐Hijleh Muhanned , Moore William , Khan Saad A.
Published: August 2019

Tracheal head and neck squamous cell cancer recurrence without metastases may be related to physical displacement of cancer cells.
A novel technique to retrieve cold‐welded implant abutment: A case series
Authors: Arshad Mahnaz , Mahgoli Hossein Ali , Rasouli Kamran , Refoua Sina
Published: August 2019

Abutment fracture is a complication of dental implant treatment. When an abutment breaks, the remaining part should be retrieved without damaging the implant hex. In many cases, the implant‐abutment connection is cold‐welded, which makes it difficult to remove the remaining part. The aim of the present study was to describe a simple technique to retrieve the remaining part of a broken abutment.
Pd‐Catalyzed Surface Reactions of Importance in Radiation Induced Dissolution of Spent Nuclear Fuel Involving H2
Authors: Maier Annika Carolin , Jonsson Mats
Published: August 2019

To assess the influence of metallic inclusions (ϵ‐particles) on the dissolution of spent nuclear fuel under deep repository conditions, Pd‐catalyzed reactions of H2O2, O2 and UO22+ with H2 were studied using Pd‐powder suspensions. U(VI) can efficiently be reduced to less soluble U(IV) on Pd‐particles in the presence of H2. The kinetics of the reaction was found to depend on the H2 partial pressure at pH2≤5.1×10−2 bar. In comparison, the H2 pressure dependence for the reduction of H2O2 on Pd also becomes evident below 5.1×10−2 bar. Surface bound hydroxyl radicals are formed as intermediate species produced during the catalytic decomposition of H2O2 on oxide surfaces. While a significant amount of surface bound hydroxyl radicals were scavenged during the catalytic decomposition of H2O2 on ZrO2, no scavenging was observed in the same reaction on Pd. This indicates a different reaction mechanism for H2O2 decomposition on Pd compared to metal oxides and is in contrast to current literature. While Pd is an excellent catalyst for the synthesis of H2O2 from H2 and O2, a similar catalytic activity that was previously proposed for ZrO2 could not be confirmed.
The Role of Non‐Metallic and Metalloid Elements on the Electrocatalytic Activity of Cobalt and Nickel Catalysts for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Masa Justus , Schuhmann Wolfgang
Published: August 2019

Compounds and alloys of cobalt and nickel with some nonmetals (N, P, S, Se) and metalloids (C, B, C, As and Te) have emerged as very promising noble metal‐free pre‐catalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in alkaline electrolytes. However, the exact role played by the non‐metals and metalloids in promoting the OER is not well understood. A holistic understanding of the origin of the OER activity enhancement in these compounds is vital for their exploitation as models to inspire knowledge‐guided design of improved OER catalysts. In this review, we elucidate the factors that govern the activity and stability of OER catalysts derived from MX compounds (M=Co or Ni, and X=nonmetal or metalloid), including the impact of surface electronic structure, M : X stoichiometry, material composition, structure and crystallinity, as well as the role of oxoanions on the properties of the electrochemical double layer and interaction energies of the reaction intermediates. Finally, we outline a few perspectives and research directions towards a deeper understanding of the role of the nonmetal and metalloid elements and design of improved OER catalysts.
Catalytic Oxidation of CO over Nanocrystalline La1–xCexNiO3 Perovskite‐Type Oxides
Authors: Amini Sajjad , Meshkani Fereshteh , Rezaei Mehran
Published: August 2019

Nanocrystalline La1–xCexNiO3 (x = 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, 0.9) perovskite‐type oxide catalysts prepared by the Pechini method were employed in catalytic CO oxidation and the effect of substitution of La by Ce on CO conversion was evaluated. The results indicated the remarkable effect of La substitution with Ce on the catalytic performance at low temperatures. The reaction temperature had a significant influence on the stability of the catalysts. The La0.1Ce0.9NiO3 sample exhibited the highest activity among the prepared catalysts in CO oxidation reaction. In addition, the influence of different parameters including pretreatment condition, feed ratio, and gas hourly space velocity (GHSV) on the catalytic performance was examined. The optimum catalyst proved high stability under severe reaction conditions in the presence of water vapor and CO2 in the feed stream.