bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Different Organic Manures on Growth Performance, Yield and Economics of Kharif Maize (Zea mays L.) on Eastern Plain Zone of Uttar Pradesh of Prayagraj Region
Authors: Singh Yadav Abhishek , Thomas Tarence , Sachan Ravindra , Kumar Avanish
Published: April 2022

The present field experiment has conducted during the autumn season of 2019-20 at the crop research farm of Department of Soil Science & Agriculture Chemistry, SHUATS, Prayagraj, (UP). The aim of study to evaluate the effect of different organic manures on growth parameters, yield, yield component and economics of autumn Maize (Zea mays L.). The experiment consisted of 9 treatments in randomized block design with three replications consisted of  T1: FYM @ 5 t ha-1, T2: FYM @ 10 t ha-1, T3: FYM @ 15 t ha-1, T4: VC @ 5 t ha-1,T5: VC @ 10 t ha-1, T6: VC @ 15 t ha-1, T7: BK @ 5 t ha-1,T8: BK @ 10 t ha-1, T9: BK @ 15 t ha-1. On the basis of the results emanated from present investigation, it could be concluded that application of vermicompost @ 15 tonnes ha-1 shows higher values in terms of growth parameter i.e. plant height (261.63 cm at 90 DAS), dry matter accumulation (177.56 g), cob length (20.82 cm) and cob girth (17.39 cm) and yield component i.e. number of filled cob plant-1 (2.33), number of grains cob-1 (442.88), number of grain row cob-1 (36.99), average cob weight (261.55 g) and test weight (220.53 g). Results also showed that application of vermicompost @ 15 tonnes ha-1 significantly enhanced productivity parameter i.e. Grain yield (3544.33 kg ha-1), green fodder yield (9810.67 kg ha-1), biological yield (13355 kg ha-1) and harvest index (26.54 %) followed by Bokashi Manures @ 15 tonnes ha-1. Higher values of economics viz., gross return ( 167915.9 ha-1), net return ( 333875.9 ha-1) and B:C ratio in maize was observed with the application of vermicompost @15 tonnes ha-1 except cost of cultivation.
Concept and Therapeutic Approach of Intermediate Hyperglycemia with Special Reference to Unani Medicine
Authors: Nasir Abdul , Fatma Gazala
Published: April 2022

Intermediate Hyperglycemia is a category of glucose tolerance representing an intermediate stage between normal glucose tolerance (NGT) and diabetes. Within this category are two subcategories: impaired fasting glucose (IFG; 100 –125 mg/dl) and impaired glucose tolerance (IGT; defined as a 2-h oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) plasma glucose concentration of 140 –199 mg/dl). Intermediate Hyperglycemia is not specifically mentioned in Unani medicine, however some classical Unani physicians have described the initial symptoms and factors leading to the pathology. In Unani medicine the risk factors are described in terms of ‘Su-e-mizaj’ as per the concept of Tibb. So, it is considered in the context of Zeyabutus which is described as a disease which develops due to Su-e-mizaj haar (abnormal hot temperament) by the majority of scholars. The two major pathophysiologic defects responsible for losing glucose tolerance are insulin resistance and β-cell glucose insensitivity, both appearing in subjects of Intermediate Hyperglycemia. Symptoms mentioned in Unani medicine may be increased frequency of micturition (ants and flies are attracted to urine), increased thirst, nocturia, dryness of mouth and whole body, fatigue, loss of weight, malaise, cramps in lower extremities.

The drug based approach for management of Intermediate Hyperglycemia is associated with inherent drawbacks, including toxicity, tolerability, cost and efficacy. Oral hypoglycemic drugs are also associated with various side effects as Biguanides cause gastrointestinal upsets, anorexia, nausea, diarrhea and lactic acidosis. There are a number of single Unani drugs like Jamun (Syzigium cuimini), Karela Bark or Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia), Neem (Azadirachta indica), Methi (Trigionella foenum), Bael Leaves (Aegle marmelos), Kalonji (Nigella sativa), Tabasheer (Bambusa arundinaceae), Gurmar booti (Gymmema sylvestre) and compound formulations like Qurs Ziyabetus, Qurs Tabasheer, Qurs Kafoor, Qurs Gulnar.
Axenfeld-Rieger Syndrome: Case Report
Authors: Dinalli Francisco Amanda , Sande Miguel Thiago , Luiza Mansur Souto Ana , Almeida da Costa Daniel , Bastos Pereira Maurício
Published: April 2022

Aims:To describe a Axenfeld-Rieger Syndrome.

Presentation of Case: MCL, 7 years old, female, brown, was taken to the ophthalmology outpatient clinic of the Hospital Universitário Antônio Pedro, Brazil by her parents, complaining of low visual acuity and malformation of the pupil perceived since birth.

Discussion: Axenfeld-Rieger Syndrome is a rare and hereditary disease. Clinically, Axenfeld's anomaly is characterized by the presence of posterior embryotoxon, and there may be adherence of iridian tissue in its periphery. In addition to Rieger's anomaly, posterior embryotoxon is added to iris hypoplasia and iris thickness defects, uveal ectropion and pupillary alterations, such as corectopia. Rieger's syndrome is associated with extraocular changes, of which hypodontia, myicrodontia, maxillary hypoplasia, telecanthus, hypertelorism and hypospadias stand out.

Conclusions: Therefore, the importance of early diagnosis, follow-up and adequate treatment becomes evident in order to preserve the visual function of patients and thus avoid an unfavorable evolution.
Continuous Microfiber Wire Mandrel‐Less Biofabrication for Soft Tissue Engineering Applications
Authors: Adamo Arianna , Bartolacci Joseph G. , Pedersen Drake D. , Traina Marco G. , Kim Seungil , Pantano Antonio , Ghersi Giulio , Watkins Simon C. , Wagner William R. , Badylak Stephen F. , D'Amore Antonio
Published: April 2022

Suture materials are the most common bioimplants in surgical and clinical practice, playing a crucial role in wound healing and tendon and ligament repair. Despite the assortment available on the market, sutures are still affected by significant disadvantages, including failure in mimicking the mechanical properties of the tissue, excessive fibrosis, and inflammation. This study introduces a mandrel‐less electrodeposition apparatus to fabricate continuous microfiber wires of indefinite length. The mandrel‐less biofabrication produces wires, potentially used as medical fibers, with different microfiber bundles, that imitate the hierarchical organization of native tissues, and tailored mechanical properties. Microfiber wire morphology and mechanical properties are characterized by scanning electron microscopy, digital image processing, and uniaxial tensile test. Wires are tested in vitro on monocyte/macrophage stimulation and in vivo on a rat surgical wound model. The wires produced by mandrel‐less deposition show an increased M2 macrophage phenotype in vitro. The in vivo assessment demonstrates that microfiber wires, compared to the medical fibers currently used, reduce pro‐inflammatory macrophage response and preserve their mechanical properties after 30 days of use. These results make this microfiber wire an ideal candidate as a suture material for soft tissue surgery, suggesting a crucial role of microarchitecture in more favorable host response.
Gram‐Scale Synthesized Two‐Dimensional VSe2 and SnSe2 for Ultrahigh Electrocatalytic Sulfion Recycling
Authors: Feng Wang , Cheng Mo , Du Ruofan , Wang Yuzhu , Wang Peng , Li Hui , Song Luying , Wen Xia , Yang Junbo , Li Xiaohui , He Jun , Shi Jianping
Published: April 2022

The electrocatalytic sulfion (S2−) recycling and hydrogen (H2) evolution play indispensable roles in converting waste into sustainable energy and boosting hydrogen economy. However, the development of such promising technologies is hindered by the lack of electrocatalysts with low‐cost, high‐efficient, and robust stability. 2D VSe2 and SnSe2 hold great application potentials in the energy‐related fields yet face daunting challenges in terms of large‐scale synthesis. Herein, a gram‐scale and high‐yield strategy is designed with tetradecylamine (TDA) assistance for synthesizing 2D VSe2 and SnSe2. The cooperativity of TDA with V4+ (Sn4+) cations and its stabilization to (100) facets of products contribute to the formation of ultrathin VSe2 nanosheets with abundant wrinkles and SnSe2 nanoflowers with hierarchical structures, which deliver excellent hydrogen evolution reaction and oxygen evolution reaction performances. Significantly, a record‐breaking sulfion oxidation reaction efficiency in 2D VSe2 is uncovered, and the current density is one order of magnitude larger than that of commercial Pt/C catalyst. This work presents a significant breakthrough for scalable synthesize 2D electrocatalysts and provides a new paradigm for sustainable hydrogen generation and water purification.
Synergetic Anion–Cation Redox Ensures a Highly Stable Layered Cathode for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Li Xiang , Xu Jialiang , Li Haoyu , Zhu Hong , Guo Shaohua , Zhou Haoshen
Published: April 2022

Sodium‐ion batteries are commonly regarded as a promising candidate in large‐scale energy storage. Layered iron/manganese oxide cathodes receive extensive attentions due to the element abundance and large theoretical capacity. However, these materials usually undergo obvious degradation of electrochemical performance due to the tendency of Mn dissolution and Fe migration during continuous sodium release and uptake. Herein, a strategy of anion–cation synergetic redox is proposed to suppress the structural deterioration originated from overusing the electrochemical activity of transition‐metal ions, and decreased lattice strain as well as superior electrochemical performance are realized simultaneously. Results show that the Na0.8Li0.2Fe0.2Mn0.6O2 (NLFM) electrode is highly resistant to the erosion of moisture that is distinct from the traditional Mn/Fe‐based electrodes. Moreover, the NLFM electrode demonstrates solid solution behavior without phase transition during cycles. The ultra‐small volume change of 0.85% is ascribed to the negligible manganese dissolution and invisible transition‐metal migration. The high‐stable layered structure assures superior reversible capacity of ≈165 mA h g–1, excellent rate capability, and splendid capacity retention of over 98.3% with 100 cycles. The findings deepen the understanding of the synergy between anion and cation redox and provide new insights to design the high‐stable layered cathode for sodium‐ion batteries.
Two‐Dimensional C/MoS2‐Functionalized Ti3C2Tx Nanosheets for Achieving Strong Electromagnetic Wave Absorption
Authors: Fan Bingbing , Ansar Muhammad Tamoor , Wang Xiaohan , Song Limeng , Du Heng , Lu Hongxia , Zhao Biao , Zhang Rui , Fan Lei , Li Hongxia
Published: April 2022

The fabrication of ultra‐high performance absorbers with low thickness, light weight, hierarchical structure, and strong microwave absorption (MA) capability in a wide frequency range is a critical objective of the scientific community. The unique two‐dimensional lamellar and sandwich‐like structure of MoS2 (S‐Mo‐S) in combination with Ti3C2Tx offers exceptional metallic features, an enriched surface area and a hierarchical structure; hence, it is an appealing alternative to high‐efficiency microwave absorbers. Herein, two‐dimensional C/MoS2‐functionalized Ti3C2Tx hierarchical structures with superior attenuation capabilities (dielectric losses) are creatively designed and fabricated, and a minimal reflection loss (RLmin) of −42.7 dB is achieved at a thickness of only 1.5 mm. These excellent microwave absorption properties are attributed to better impedance matching, which is due to the tunable complex permittivity; intensive interfacial polarization, which stems from the numerous interfaces of multiple components; multiple scattering, which originates from the presence of plentiful two‐dimensional nanosheets; and ohmic loss, which arises from the formation of conductivity networks. The interconnected sandwich‐like and layered structure is proven to be an effective strategy for enriched microwave absorption by functionalized Ti3C2Tx nanocomposites.
Formation of LiF‐rich Cathode‐Electrolyte Interphase by Electrolyte Reduction
Authors: Bai Panxing , Ji Xiao , Zhang Jiaxun , Zhang Weiran , Hou Singyuk , Su Hai , Li Mengjie , Deng Tao , Cao Longsheng , Liu Sufu , He Xinzi , Xu Yunhua , Wang Chunsheng
Published: April 2022

The capacity of transition metal oxide cathode for Li‐ion batteries can be further enhanced by increasing the charging potential. However, these high voltage cathodes suffer from fast capacity decay because the large volume change of cathode breaks the active materials and cathode‐electrolyte interphase (CEI), resulting in electrolyte penetration into broken active materials and continuous side reactions between cathode and electrolytes. Herein, a robust LiF‐rich CEI was formed by potentiostatic reduction of fluorinated electrolyte at a low potential of 1.7 V. By taking LiCoO2 as a model cathode, we demonstrate that the LiF‐rich CEI maintains the structural integrity and suppresses electrolyte penetration at a high cut‐off potential of 4.6 V. The LiCoO2 with LiF‐rich CEI exhibited a capacity of 198 mAh g−1 at 0.5C and an enhanced capacity retention of 63.5 % over 400 cycles as compared to the LiF‐free LiCoO2 with only 17.4 % of capacity retention.
Salvage parenteral antibiotics for multidrug‐resistant (MDR) Gram‐negative bacteria; a fluorescamine‐based technique for ultrasensitive spectrofluorimetric measurement of Polymyxins; human plasma application
Authors: Badr El‐Din Khalid M. , Abdelmajed Mahmoud A. , Omar Mahmoud A. , Attia Tamer Z.
Published: April 2022

Polymyxins (PMS), namely Colistin (CS) and polymyxin B (poly B), are antimicrobial drugs that have been recently used to treat multiresistant Gram‐negative bacteria infections and their resurgence, owing to a lack of new antibiotics. A speedy, simple, and ultrasensitive spectrofluorimetric screening of PMS in pharmaceutical formulations and biological fluids was urgently required from this point forwards. A reaction between fluorescamine and the aliphatic amino moiety found in both drugs was performed in a slightly alkaline borate buffer (pH 8.5) resulted in highly fluorescent products measured at λem460 (after λex390.5 nm). Linear calibration curves were constructed over the concentration range 70–1800 ng ml−1and 100 to 1400 ng ml−1, with slope values of 0.273 and 0.286, correlation coefficients of 0.9998 and 0.9997, and determination coefficient of 0.9997 and 0.9994 for poly B and CS, respectively. The ultrasensitivity of the proposed method was demonstrated by the very low limit of quantification values of 67.56 ng ml−1and 94.89 ng ml−1for poly B and CS, respectively. The cited drugs were successfully determined in their intravenous market preparations by the prescribed method. Moreover, due to the high sensitivity, the suggested method was used to assay the investigated drugs in biological fluids.
Grass pea (Lathyrus sativus L.) protein yield and functionality as affected by extraction method: Alkaline, ultrasound‐assisted, and ultrasound pretreatment extraction
Authors: Youshanlouei Yeganeh Azimi , Kiani Hossein , Mousavi Mohammad , Mousavi Zeinab E.
Published: April 2022

Background and Objectives

Plant protein products are now considered sustainable substitutes for animal proteins in new product formulations, and various methods such as ultrasound have been used to improve their properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the physicochemical and functional properties of grass pea (Lathyrus sativus L.) protein isolate was extracted, as a promising source of plant‐based protein, using conventional (CP), pre‐ultrasonic (PUP) and ultrasound‐assisted (UAP) treatments.

Findings

Extraction yield, protein content, and protein yield of ultrasound treatments were increased. Ultrasound treatments improved the functional properties of pea protein. Thermal and surface properties were also altered due to the conformational changes in protein molecules during sonication. According to sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, there were no differences in protein fractions of different samples in terms of molecular weight, and protein fractions between 23 and 100 kDa were observed. However, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy results revealed changes in different treatments suggesting that sonication changed protein secondary structures. Correspondingly, optical and fluorescence microscopy images of protein solutions and foams revealed changes in the structure of proteins and CP presented larger protein aggregates and larger foam bubble sizes than PUP and UAP.

Conclusions

Ultrasound treatment could increase extraction and improve the functionality of proteins which was attributed to changes in the secondary structure of proteins.

Significance and Novelty

Grass pea protein isolate can be considered a novel source of valuable protein and ultrasound treatment could enhance the functionality of the protein increasing potential applications of this ingredient in the food industry.
Supported RuxIr1‐xO2 Mixed Oxides Catalysts for Propane Combustion: Resistance Against Water Poisoning
Authors: Wang Zheng , Wang Wei , Khalid Omeir , Weber Tim , Spriewald Luciano Alexander , Zhan Wangcheng , Smarsly Bernd M. , Over Herbert
Published: April 2022

Mixed oxide catalysts RuxIr1‐xO2 with varying composition x (x=0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1.0) supported on CeO2, γ‐Al2O3 or ZrO2 are successfully prepared and tested in the catalytic propane combustion in terms of activity and stability. Pure IrO2 reveals a significantly lower activity than RuxIr1‐xO2 with x≥0.25. For low conversion, pure RuO2 on CeO2 turns out to be the most active catalyst, while at higher conversion, Ru0.75Ir0.25O2 on ZrO2 is found to be more active than RuO2, pointing towards synergism of Ru and Ir sites. Long‐term stability and also the resistance against water poisoning are highest for ZrO2‐supported catalysts. The higher the Ir concentration in the active component RuxIr1‐xO2 the more susceptible is the catalyst to water poisoning. Water poisoning is shown to be reversible, consistent with a blocking of catalytically active sites by water adsorption.
Klimaschonende Technologien
Authors: Wöhrle D.
Published: April 2022

Klimabelastende CO2‐Quellen sind Kraftwerke für elektrische und thermische Energie sowie Industrieprozesse wie Synthesegas und Folgeprodukte. Welche Alternativen gibt es? Auf der einen Seite Strom aus erneuerbaren Energien und weiter H2, der durch Elektrolyse von H2O erzeugt und energetisch sowie als Rohstoff verwendet wird. Auf der anderen Seite CO2 abgeschieden aus der Atmosphäre oder industriellen Emissionen, der als Rohstoff für Synthesen eingesetzt werden kann. H2, CO2 und CO sind die Edukte im sehr bedeutenden Synthesegas, welches nach bekannten Verfahren zu unterschiedlichsten Chemikalien umgesetzt wird. Alle Verfahren sind bereits in Pilotanlagen erprobt. Ziel ist es, eine nachhaltige Kreislaufwirtschaft mit negativen Emissionstechnologien zu erreichen.
Green Phosphorescent Zn(II) Halide Complexes with N,N,N′,N′‐tetramethyl‐P‐indol‐1‐ylphosphonic Diamide as Ligand
Authors: Ferraro Valentina , Baggio Filippo , Castro Jesús , Bortoluzzi Marco
Published: April 2022

Tetrahedral Zn(II) complexes having general formula [ZnX2{O=P(NMe2)2Ind}2] (X=Cl, Br, I, NCS) were isolated from the reaction between the indol‐1‐yl substituted phosphoramide N,N,N′,N′‐tetramethyl‐P‐indol‐1‐ylphosphonic diamide O=P(NMe2)2Ind and anhydrous Zn(II) precursors under mild conditions. The structures of the three halide derivatives were ascertained by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The bromo‐ and iodo‐derivatives revealed to be appreciably luminescent in the green region upon excitation with light below 300 nm, with emission bands centred between 520 and 530 nm. The large Stokes shifts and the excited state lifetimes in the milliseconds range indicated that triplet excited states are involved in the emission. TD‐DFT calculations indicated that the luminescence is related to a ligand‐centred transition with the involvement of triplet states.
Determination of methanol concentration for DMFC systems by fuel cell‐based sensor
Authors: Celik Selahattin , Cuhadar Nurullah , Yagiz Mikail
Published: April 2022

Direct methanol fuel cells are devices that convert the chemical energy of methanol fuel having high energy density directly into electrical energy by electrochemical reactions. Methanol must be supplied to the fuel cell system as an aqueous solution to complete the reaction. Therefore, controlling and adjusting of methanol ratio in the methanol‐water mixture is critical for the continuity of direct methanol fuel cell performance. In this study, two fuel cell‐based electrochemical sensors are developed to adjust the amount of methanol in an aqueous solution in a direct methanol fuel cell. The experimental setup is prepared for the developed sensors and the effects of parameters, such as temperature, methanol flow rate, oxidizing effect, and methanol concentration, affecting the sensor performance are observed experimentally. It is observed that the experimental results obtained in the design without air input are more stable than that of the sensor working with air. However, in air‐independent design, the measurement value lost its stability after 2M concentration. The change in methanol flow rate did not cause any change in either sensor. High temperature and low methanol concentrations are found to be the main criteria for the best sensor performance.
Stable isotopes of surface water and groundwater in a typical subtropical basin in south‐central China: Insights into the young water fraction and its seasonal origin
Authors: Xiao Xiong , Zhang Xinping , Wu Huawu , Zhang Cicheng , Han Longfei
Published: April 2022

The young water fraction (Fyw) can be reliably determined in heterogeneous river basins, and the seasonal origin index (SOI) can be used to determine the relative contributions of winter versus summer precipitation to runoff. Fywand SOI are also important descriptors of how a basin controls runoff generation and the transport of contaminants and nutrients. In this study, high‐frequency sampling of precipitation, river water, creek water, and shallow groundwater was conducted in the Xiangjiang River basin, in south‐central China, from January 2010 to December 2012. The samples were subjected to stable isotope measurements to determine the SOI and Fywof surface water and shallow groundwater. The principal findings are: (1) The δ2H variations of the river water, creek water, and shallow groundwater were driven by the input of precipitation but were attenuated during runoff confluence processes. Also, the low lc‐excess values of the river water indicated a strong evaporative effect. (2) 21.4% and 19.7% of the river water and shallow groundwater were younger than 1.5 and 1.7 months, respectively, indicating a quicker renewal cycle than for the creek water, which had a fraction of 8.0% younger than 2.6 months, which originated from the adjacent mountains. (3) Winter precipitation was more prevalent in the river water and creek water, indicating the substantial inter‐seasonal carryover of precipitation that supplied the runoff. The average SOI value of the shallow groundwater was near zero, indicating the mixing of the precipitation in different seasons that supplies the shallow groundwater. Our findings emphasize the importance of vegetation and soil conservation in maintaining the inter‐seasonal carryover of water storage held by soil, plants, and rock fractures, and the necessity to assess the risks of streamflow contamination because of the rapid renewal cycle of river water in this flat and intensively cultivated landscape.
The influence of mindset abstraction on preference for mixed versus extreme approaches to multigoal pursuits
Authors: Lu Fang‐Chi , Park Jooyoung , Nayakankuppam Dhananjay
Published: April 2022

Facing multiple conflicting goals, consumers may attempt to simultaneously pursue multiple goals by choosing mixed vice–virtue bundles in each consumption episode (mixed approach). Alternatively, they may maximize their pursuit of one goal at a time and sequentially manage multiple goals by alternating between pure‐virtue and pure‐vice bundles across consumption episodes (extreme approach). The current research proposes that consumer preferences between the two approaches depend on mindset abstraction. Across four experimental studies in the domains of food and financial decision‐making, we demonstrate that, relative to an abstract mindset, a concrete mindset increases preference for the extreme approach over the mixed approach. Furthermore, by observing actual food choices over a seven‐day period, this research provides a comprehensive picture of how a chronic mindset relates to multigoal management in long‐term consumption patterns. The findings have both theoretical implications for the goal literature and managerial implications for marketers and policymakers.
The Utility of CTA in Pediatric Oropharyngeal Trauma: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Poupore Nicolas S. , Jungbauer W Nicholas , Nguyen Shaun A. , White David R. , Pecha Phayvanh P. , Carroll William W.
Published: April 2022

Objective(s)

To analyze the utility of computed tomography angiography (CTA) in identifying internal carotid artery (ICA) injury and reducing cerebrovascular accident (CVA) incidence in children presenting with normal neurologic exams after oropharyngeal trauma (OT).

Data Sources

PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and Cochrane.

Review Methods

A systematic review and meta‐analysis were performed following PRISMA guidelines. Of 1,185 studies screened, 95 studies of pediatric OT met inclusion criteria. Meta‐analysis of proportions was performed.

Results

A total of 1224 children with OT were analyzed. Excluding case reports, the weighted proportion of a CVA after OT was 0.31% (95% CI 0.06–0.93). If a child presented without neurologic deficits, 0.30% (95% CI 0.05–0.95) returned with new neurologic deficits. An ICA injury was identified in 0.89% (95% CI 0.16–2.74) of screening CTAs. No difference in CVA incidence was seen in children with screening CTA (0.52% [95% CI 0.02–2.15]) compared to children without screening CTA (0.42% [95% CI 0.06–1.37]). Patients who developed CVA had a higher proportion of injuries >2 cm, injuries at the posterior pillar or tonsil, and injuries with a writing utensil or popsicle stick compared to patients without CVA.

Conclusion

The proportion of children experiencing an ICA injury leading to CVA after sustaining OT is low. CTAs infrequently show ICA changes in children with normal neurological exams. Children who receive CTAs do not have a significantly lower incidence of CVAs than children who do not receive CTAs. Clinicians should weigh the risks and benefits of a CTA based on an individual child's presentation and discuss this with caregivers for shared decision‐making. Laryngoscope, 133:25–37, 2023
Simultaneous Surface Display and Holography Enabled by Flat Liquid Crystal Elements
Authors: Tang Dongliang , Shao Zhenglong , Zhou Yingjie , Lei Yu , Chen Long , Xie Jin , Zhang Xiaohu , Xie Xin , Fan Fan , Liao Lei , Wen Shuangchun
Published: April 2022

As a fundamental material in the current mainstream display technology, liquid crystal (LC) exhibits excellent properties including controllable and reconfigurable LC orientation, high‐efficiency pure‐phase modulation, active tunability, etc., and becomes one of the most attractive candidates for the development of next‐generation flat optical devices. Current LC elements are suffering from the single functionality as only one type of the optical manipulation is involved. Integrating several functions together brings great flexibility and high integration but remains an urgent task. Here, flat LC elements are proposed to simultaneously accomplish near‐field display and far‐field holography. The anisotropic nature of the LC allows a complex amplitude modulation with a sinusoidal variation, promising a continuous amplitude change, and a binary phase modulation. Specifically, several two‐channel LC elements are experimentally demonstrated, which simultaneously generate a grayscale pattern at sample surface and project an independent holographic image in the far field. Furthermore, the position and spatial multiplexing methodologies are introduced to further improve the information capacity. The proposed LC elements with simple anisotropic structure and large fabrication size can empower the multifunctional design and have promising prospects in information multiplexing, image displaying, data storage, etc.
RAFT Polymerization of Semifluorinated Monomers Mediated by a NIR Fluorinated Photocatalyst
Authors: Ma Qiankun , Wang Wulong , Zhang Liangshun , Cao Hongliang
Published: April 2022

Near‐infrared (NIR) light plays an increasingly important role in the field of photoinduced electron/energy transfer‐reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (PET‐RAFT) polymerization due to its unique properties. Yet, the NIR photocatalyst with good stability for PET‐RAFT polymerization remains promising. Here, a strategy of NIR PET‐RAFT polymerization of semifluorinated monomers using fluorophenyl bacteriochlorin as a photocatalyst with strong absorption at the NIR light region (710–780 nm) is reported. In which, the F atoms are used to modify reduced tetraphenylporphyrin structure with enhanced photostability of photocatalyst. Under the irradiation of NIR light (λmax = 740 nm), the PET‐RAFT polymerization of semifluorinated methylacrylic monomers presents living/control characteristics and temporal modulation. By the PET‐RAFT polymerization‐induced self‐assembly (PISA) strategy, stable fluorine‐containing micelles are constructed in various solvents. In addition, the fluorinated hydrophobic surface is fabricated via a surface‐initiated PET‐RAFT (SI‐PET‐RAFT) polymerization using silicon wafer bearing RAFT agents with tunable surface hydrophobicity. This strategy not only enlightens the application of further modified compounds based on porphyrin structure in photopolymerization, but also shows promising potential for the construction of well‐defined functional fluoropolymers.
Technical note: Evaluation of artificial 120‐kilovolt computed tomography images for radiation therapy applications
Authors: Tao Shengzhen , Gong Hao , Michalak Gregory , McCollough Cynthia , Leng Shuai , Hu Yanle
Published: April 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this work is to evaluate the scaled computed tomography (CT) number accuracy of an artificial 120 kV reconstruction technique based on phantom experiments in the context of radiation therapy planning.

Methods

An abdomen‐shaped electron density phantom was scanned on a clinical CT scanner capable of artificial 120 kV reconstruction using different tube potentials from 70 to 150 kV. A series of tissue‐equivalent phantom inserts (lung, adipose, breast, solid water, liver, inner bone, 30%/50% CaCO3, cortical bone) were placed inside the phantom. Images were reconstructed using a conventional quantitative reconstruction kernel as well as the artificial 120 kV reconstruction kernel. Scaled CT numbers of inserts were measured from images acquired at different kVs and compared with those acquired at 120 kV, which were deemed as the ground truth. The relative error was quantified as the percentage deviation of scaled CT numbers acquired at different tube potentials from their ground truth values acquired at 120 kV.

Results

Scaled CT numbers measured from images reconstructed using the conventional reconstruction demonstrated a strong kV‐dependence. The relative error in scaled CT numbers ranged from 0.6% (liver insert) to 31.1% (cortical bone insert). The artificial 120 kV reconstruction reduced the kV dependence, especially for bone tissues. The relative error in scaled CT number was reduced to 0.4% (liver insert) and 2.6% (30% CaCO3 insert) using this technique. When tube potential selection was limited to the range of 90 to 150 kV, the relative error was further restrained to <1.2% for all tissue types.

Conclusion

Phantom results demonstrated that using the artificial 120 kV technique, it was feasible to acquire raw projection data at the desired tube potential and then reconstruct images with scaled CT numbers comparable to those obtained directly at 120 kV. In radiotherapy applications, this technique may allow optimization of tube potential without complicating clinical workflow by eliminating the necessity of maintaining multiple sets of CT calibration curves.
Registration of TN13‐4304 soybean germplasm with good yield, high meal protein, and resistance to peanut and southern root knot nematode
Authors: Fallen Ben , Cunicelli Mia , Wyman Chris , Pantalone Vince
Published: April 2022

TN13‐4304 (Reg. no. GP‐450, PI 699660) is a conventional late maturity group (MG) IV (relative maturity 4.9) soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] with high seed yield potential, high meal protein, and resistance to southern root knot nematode, peanut root knot nematode, and stem canker. It was developed and released by the University of Tennessee soybean breeding program. TN13‐4304 was developed from reselection within the Asian Vegetable Development Center cultivar ‘AGS 292’, which was originally released for use in the edamame market. In replicated field trials across 26 environments of the USDA Southern Soybean Preliminary MG V Early and Uniform MG V Tests, TN13‐4304 yielded 108 and 101%, respectively, of the average yield of the commercial checks. In the 2018 United Soybean Board Southern Diversity Yield Trials MG IV Late (USBDIV4L), tested across three states, TN13‐4304 yielded 115% of the average of three Asgrow commercial cultivars and had an average seed protein content and oil content of 429 and 219 g kg–1, respectively. In the same test the three Asgrow cultivars had an average seed protein content of 403 g kg–1 and an average oil content of 225 g kg–1, reported using a near infrared spectrometer. In the USBDIV4L, TN13‐4304 was one of only two genotypes that met all targets of yield, seed protein, oil, and meal protein in the test. TN13‐4304 has white flowers, gray pubescence, and a determinate growth habit. The pods have a tan pod wall and the seeds are yellow with smooth seed coats. For decades soybean genetic improvement has focused on increasing yield, which typically increased seed oil content at the expense of protein content in the meal. Although yield remains the top priority, improvements to seed composition have become very important and can have a significant impact on value. There is a limited supply of conventional (non‐genetically modified) germplasm lines available for soybean breeders. Typically, these are released by public land grant universities and by the USDA‐ARS. Release of soybean line TN13‐4304 would provide a conventional line with high protein meal and disease resistance that is useful for breeding programs.
Cancer and Covid‐19: A preliminary study on the trauma aspects of coronavirus in cancer patients
Authors: Mirandola Mara , Andreis Federica , Abdel Kader Sonia , Bianchetti Margherita , Runcan Mariana , Malighetti Clelia , Meriggi Fausto , Zaniboni Alberto
Published: April 2022

Objective

Because of Covid 19, it has become necessary to revise the treatment of cancer patients (“how” and “when”). That has had important psychological repercussions. The purpose of this study is the evaluation of the impact of Covid19 in terms of Post‐Traumatic Stress Disorder and Depression and the potential association with coping strategies.

Methods

We conducted an exploratory study with 106 patients undergoing treatment, using following questionnaires: Screening Questionnaire for Disaster Mental Health and Mini‐Mental Adjustment to Cancer.

Results

Only 25.5% of our sample showed symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and 6.6% revealed a probable presence of depression. In addition, it came up a significant correlation between SQD_P and the coping styles “Hopelessness” (r = 0.41 p < 0.001) and “Anxious Preoccupation” (r = 0.45, p < 0.001).

A strong correlation also emerged between non‐Covid 19 patients and PTSD (r = 0.29, p = 0.002).

Conclusions

Our preliminary data did not reveal a prevalence of PTSD, but the persistence of the health emergency requires to focus future research on protective and risk factors related to PTSD and psychological distress in cancer patients, in order to reduce the mental health burden of Covid19.
Are mass spectrometry imaging‐based diagnostics becoming reality?
Authors: Seeley Erin H.
Published: April 2022

Traditional histological tissue‐based diagnostics have been slow and often require large numbers of sections to interrogate for several different proteins with immunohistochemical stains. Often, due to small biopsy size, there is not sufficient material available to carry out all the desired tests on a patient sample. Mass Spectrometry Imaging (MSI) enables the simultaneous detection of hundreds to thousands of analytes from a single tissue section. In recent years, great strides have been made to standardize MSI workflows and data analysis to make it an accessible tool for clinicians to use in patient diagnoses. This commentary highlights the advances by Janßen et al. toward this goal that are discussed in this issue (Proteomics Clin Appl., https://doi.org/10.1002/prca.202100068).
A Q‐method survey of stream restoration practitioners in the Driftless Area, USA
Authors: Lundberg Emma , Gottschalk Druschke Caroline , Booth Eric G.
Published: April 2022

Stream restoration has become increasingly common, both globally and specifically in the United States. Though stream restoration has become a common freshwater management practice, there are debates around what constitutes “success” in restored systems and whether this success should incorporate both scientific and stakeholder‐defined endpoints. In our study context, the Upper Mississippi River Basin's Driftless Area, conflicts over stream restoration practices often center on the management and use of Driftless Area streams, as practitioners navigate competing perspectives about restoration approaches alongside tensions over whose needs and interests should be prioritized in restoration planning and implementation. Based on the importance of stream restoration practitioner perspectives for mediating uncertainty and shaping on‐the‐ground projects, we asked (a) What are the main areas of conflict that emerge around Driftless Area stream restoration? (b) Can stream restoration practitioners be categorized into distinct groups based on their varying perspectives on stream restoration practices in the Driftless Area? (c) If so, what are these groups and how do they map onto the main areas of stream restoration conflict in the Driftless Area? We used Q‐method to identify and describe four perspectives about stream restoration practices and priorities in the Driftless Area. Our results suggest that (a) the differences between groups are related to concerns about best practices for stabilizing streambanks and post‐restoration monitoring. We found that (b) all four Q‐method identified groups agree that floodplain‐stream channel reconnection is an important aspect of restoration projects and that erosion is a big concern in the Driftless Area.
Topical Treatments for Kaposi Sarcoma: A Systematic Review
Authors: Htet Kyaw Zin , Waul Michael Andrew , Leslie Kieron Seymour
Published: April 2022

Background

While treatment options exist for solitary or disseminated Kaposi sarcoma (KS) disease, there are currently no standardized clinical treatment guidelines for cutaneous KS.

Objective

This systematic review seeks to identify safe and effective topical treatments for cutaneous KS lesions.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review using peer-reviewed articles from January 1970 to September 2021 published in the PubMed/MEDLINE and EMBASE databases.

Results

From the initial search that yielded 590 studies, 34 met the inclusion criteria and were selected. Of the 34 studies, seven were clinical trials, 26 were case reports/series and one was a multicentre study. A total of 634 patients were included in our review. The three most common topical treatments used for cutaneous KS were imiquimod, alitretinoin and timolol. Topical alitretinoin was used in three case reports and three clinical trials. Topical imiquimod was used in eight case reports, one prospective phase II cohort study and one comparative single-blinded non-controlled clinical study. Topical timolol was used in nine case reports/series. Our review also identified reports of less widely used topical treatments for cutaneous KS. These include topical diphencyprone (DPCP), all-trans-retinoic-acid, rapamycin and bleomycin-dimethylsulfoxide (BLM-DMSO) which achieved variable response rates but have not been widely studied.

Conclusion

Topical alitretinoin, imiquimod and timolol demonstrated positive responses for cutaneous KS and the treatments were well tolerated. These three topical treatment modalities could be considered by clinicians when treating cutaneous KS.
Biophysical and Structural Insights in α‐Amylase and Bile Acids interaction
Authors: Bustos Ana Y. , de los Angeles Frias María , Ledesma Ana E.
Published: April 2022

Amylase is an enzyme exposed to the effect of bile acids (BAs) in intestine. BAs may potential reduce the activity of the enzyme. In this paper, an insight in biophysical and structural terms on how taurodeoxycholic and deoxycholic acids (TDCA and DCA, respectively) interact with α‐amylase is given, using UV‐visible, fluorescence and infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS) and molecular docking calculations. Fluorescence spectroscopy measurements, confirm that TDCA and DCA interact with α‐amylase with high affinity causing conformational changes. Also, DCA significantly modify the thermal denaturation of the protein. Besides, DCA induces a decrease in α‐helix and unordered region, together with an important increase in β‐sheet, modifying the surface charges of the protein and inducing the formation of protein aggregates producing a loss of activity. Docking results indicate that TDCA interacts with the surface of the enzyme, while DCA may stabilize inside the active site of α‐amylase thereby justifying its inhibitory mechanism. BAs acts as protein‐unfolding agents and the mechanism is dependent on the structure of the bile acid under study. These findings provide a deeper understanding of the interaction of BAs with proteins and its role as protein‐unfolding agents, at molecular level.
Nano‐Cocrystals of Piperine‐Succinic Acid: Physicochemical Characterization and Dissolution Rate Studies
Authors: Fitriani Lili , Fitriandi Annisa Dezura , Hasanah Uswatul , Zaini Erizal
Published: April 2022

The aim of this study was to prepare and characterize piperine‐succinic acid nano‐cocrystals in order to increase the solubility and dissolution rate of piperine. Nano‐cocrystals were prepared using a wet‐milling technique. Solid state characterization of the nano‐cocrystals was performed by particle size analysis (PSA), powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), FT‐IR spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Solubility and dissolution rate study were carried out in CO2‐free distilled water medium. The PSA of the nano‐cocrystal samples showed the mean of particle size was 344.4±26.25 nm, with a zeta potential value of −2.2 mV. A decrease in the intensity of the diffraction peaks by PXRD analysis, as well as endothermic peaks and the fusion enthalpy value of piperine by DSC analysis were observed in the nano‐cocrystals. Solubility tests with the nano‐cocrystals showed an increase in solubility of 12.701‐fold compared to that of intact piperine. The percentage of dissolved piperine in the nano‐cocrystals after 60 minutes was 53.281 %. It can be concluded that the formation of piperine‐succinic acid as a nano‐cocrystal using a wet‐milling technique resulted in an increase in both the solubility and dissolution rate of piperine.
Recent Progress in Metal‐Incorporated Acyclic Schiff‐Base Derivatives: Biological Aspects
Authors: Nath Bikash Dev , Islam Md. Monarul , Karim Md. Rezaul , Rahman Shofiur , Shaikh Md. Aftab Ali , Georghiou Paris E. , Menelaou Melita
Published: April 2022

Schiff‐base derivatives are widely used organic compounds and their metal complexes have been drawing much attention to chemists due to interesting structural features and unique properties. The presence of nitrogen containing imine groups (−C=N−) in Schiff‐bases as well as in their metallic complexes and the chelating properties of these compounds are responsible for their many unique biological properties. In this review, we have summarized various acyclic Schiff‐base ligands and their different metallic complexes which have been reported in the last one decade. Schiff‐bases and their metal complexes have shown a broad range of biological activities, including antifungal, antibacterial, antimalarial, antiproliferative, anti‐inflammatory, antiviral, and antipyretic properties. We have reviewed and arranged the reported Schiff‐base derivatives according to their diverse biological applications, especially their anti‐bacterial and anti‐fungal activities, anti‐tumor and anti‐cancer activities, anti‐oxidant activities, anti‐inflammatory activities and other therapeutic and medicinal properties. The other component of this work as a review of the molecular structures of various Schiff‐bases since their molecular structures play a primary role in the biological properties. The presence of heteroatoms such as nitrogen, sulfur and oxygen with free electron pairs and aromatic rings in the structure of the Schiff‐bases play significant roles in determining their properties.
A Novel Levulinate‐Based Highly Specific Colorimetric Fluorescent Probe for Bisulfite Detection in Live Cells and Zebrafish
Authors: Zhao Zhenhua , Xing Liting , Feng Quanlin , Han Lin
Published: April 2022

Bisulfite (HSO3−) is associated with many physiological processes in living systems. High concentration of HSO3− may lead to many diseases. Herein, a simple levulinate‐based colorimetric fluorescent probe for HSO3− detection was designed and synthesized. The probe showed high selectivity for HSO3− detection with color changes from light pink to deep pink. Under the optimal test conditions, there is a good linear relationship between fluorescence intensity and concentrations of HSO3− in the range of 0–50 μM with detection limit of 1.04 nM. In addition, the probe was successfully applied to monitor HSO3− in living cells and zebrafish, which proved that the probe can be used to detect HSO3− in living systems.
Biotransformation of metribuzin under various electron acceptor conditions
Authors: Phillips Thomas , Boopathy Raj
Published: April 2022

Metribuzin is a triazine herbicide used in sugarcane fields to control broadleaf weeds. Metribuzin that is washed into waterways as runoff can be linked to hermaphroditism in frogs as well as algal and macrophyte death. Metribuzin degradation by bacteria is essential to reduce the half‐life of metribuzin in the environment. The objective of this study was to determine metribuzin degradation by various bacterial consortia developed from a sludge collected from a sewage treatment plant. The sludge was exposed to metribuzin under various electron acceptor conditions including, nitrate reducing, sulfate reducing, and mixed electron acceptor conditions. Results showed metribuzin was removed significantly under mixed electron acceptor condition when glucose served as a co‐substrate followed by sulfate reducing and nitrate reducing conditions. The major metabolites identified in metribuzin degradation were desamino‐metribuzin, diketo‐metribuzin, and desamino‐diketo‐metribuzin. Repeated exposure to metribuzin may help the bacteria to adapt and evolve metribuzin degrading enzymes.