bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dorsolumbar Vertebroplasty- A Retrospective Study
Authors: Yilmaz Murat , Acar Nihat , Aybar Ahmet , Karakasli Ahmet
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Percutaneous Vertebroplasty (PVP) is a procedure frequently performed to obtain pain relief and mechanical strengthening of the collapsed vertebral body which may be caused by variant reasons. Aim: To assess frequent complications commonly encountered during vertebroplasty procedure. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on 1375 patients followed from January 2005 and June 2012 in Department of Neurosurgery, faculty of medicine, Dokuz Eylül University. Severe vertebral fracture collapse (vertebra plana), vertebral metastasis, quadriplegic patients and bed-ridden patients were excluded from this study, whereas active mobile patients without associated severe co-morbidities were included in the study. Pain, pattern of cement leakage and associated complications had been assessed. Results: Total 601 patients who fullfilled the inclusion criteria {244 (40.5%) males, 357 (59.5%) females}, average age was 63.04±7.4 (range 34 to 90) years, had undergone the PVP procedure. Mean preoperative Visual Analog Scale (VAS) was 8.51±1.5, whereas after one and six months, the mean postoperative VAS were 1.94±1.0 and 2.53±2.2, respectively. Central spinal canal leakage has been observed in four cases. Three patients had developed transient monoparesis and radiculopathy symptoms. Whereas, the fourth patient developed paraplegia. Cement leakage had been tolerated well by one patient, where symptomatic resolution occurred within one month. However, decompressive foraminotomy had been performed for two patients on the 24th and 38thdays postoperatively due to intractable radicular pain. Immediate total laminectomy and decompression surgery had been performed for removal of the cement leakage to the spinal canal for the patient who developed total paraplegia. Asymptomatic leakage had been recognised beneath the posterior longitudinal ligament in 42 patients (6.9%), beneath the anterior longitudinal ligament in 18 patients (2.9%) and into disc space in 31 patients (5.1%). Venous leakage occurred in four patients (0.6%) and was asymptomatic in all of them. Conclusion: Vertebroplasty should be performed in a fully equipped operation theater in order to be able to revert quickly to open surgery in case of cement leakage into the spinal canal.
Cerebral Cysticercosis Masquerading as Eclampsia: A Case Report
Authors: Kaur Amanjot , Singh Beant
Published: April 2021

Neurocysticercosis is a preventable parasitic disease of nervous system caused by Taenia solium. It may present with seizures, focal neurological deficits, decreased visual acuity and altered mental status. Eclampsia is a neurological manifestation of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy presenting as seizures. In common obstetric practice, all cases of unexplained seizures are managed as eclampsia unless proven otherwise. Neurocysticercosis presenting first time in pregnancy with seizures can be confused with eclampsia. The index case was referred to us in a similar manner in the second trimester of pregnancy with a diagnosis of eclampsia. Patient was evaluated further for the cause of seizures and was found to have neurocysticercosis on imaging. She was then conservatively managed and the pregnancy was continued till term rather than termination of pregnancy which is the standard management of eclampsia.
Isolated Fracture of the Corpus Spongiosum- A Rare Case with Atypical Presentation and Diagnostic Role of MRI
Authors: Jayanth Selvin Theodore , Venkatramani Vivek , Mukha Rajiv Paul
Published: April 2021

Penile fractures occur due to rupture of the corpora cavernosum or tunica albuginea secondary to blunt or sexual trauma to the erect penis. They typically present with rapid detumescence of the penis, with pain, swelling and ecchymosis. Approximately 10-20% of penile fractures involve the urethra. The report presents a 28-years-old male patient that complained of per-urethral bleeding, following an injury to an erect penis. With the help of MRI and intra-operative cystoscopy it was found that the injury exclusively involved corpus spongiosum. He subsequently underwent a penile exploration and repair of the spongiosal defect. At one year follow up, he had normal erections with no per-urethral bleed. This is a rare form of presentation of penile fractures with only a few cases reported in literature. Surgical exploration remains the gold standard and early exploration is recommended to avoid erectile dysfunction, corporal fibrosis and urethral strictures and MRI is an useful adjunct.
The Effects of Ovulation Documentation before Insemination on Intrauterine Insemination Cycle Outcomes: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Pradhan Sujata , Thakur Padmalaya
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Ovulation is the key event in Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) cycles. Monitoring ovulation prior to insemination will help to alter insemination time to improve pregnancy rate. Aim: To compare pregnancy rates and live birth rates in presence and absence of ultrasonographic features of ovulation before insemination in IUI cycles. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study conducted in a Institute of Medical Sciences and SUM Hospital, Bhubaneswar. Three hundred eighty eight IUI cycles performed in the period of January 2017 to December 2018 were analysed. On the day of IUI prior to insemination, transvaginal ultrasonography was done 36-38 hours after ovulation trigger to document ovulation. Presumptive signs of ovulation were documented in 201 cycles (Group A) and there was no feature suggestive of ovulation in 187 cycles (Group B). In all the cycles, single insemination was performed at 38-40 hours after ovulation trigger. Baseline characteristics were compared. Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare continuous variables. Chi-square test and Fisher’s-exact test were applied to find out the differences in the categorical variables as well as the pregnancy outcomes among the groups. Pregnancy rate and live birth rate were considered as the primary outcomes. Results: Pregnancy rate (17.9% vs 18.2%, p-value=0.945) and live birth rate (17.9% vs 16.0%, p-value=0.625) were similar irrespective of ovulation status documented in ultrasonography performed before insemination. Conclusion: IUI cycle outcomes are independent of the ovulation status documented before insemination.
Unpredictable Outcome of Large Traumatic Oesophageal Injury: An Experience and Challenges
Authors: Rodha Mahaveer Singh , Meena Satya Prakash , Soni Subhash Chandra , Garg Pawan Kumar , Cardoz Althea Vency
Published: April 2021

Oesophageal injury following blunt or penetrating injury due to road traffic accidents is a rare cause of morbidity and mortality. The outcome of delayed diagnosis of oesophageal injury is mostly life threatening conditions. A 23-year-old female presented with respiratory distress, fever, chest pain and facial deformity, following road traffic accident 15 days back. After evaluation, the patient was diagnosed with septicaemia due to large thoracic oesophageal perforation with left pyothorax. The patient was managed by Video Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) decortication with feeding jejunostomy followed by diversion cervical oesophagostomy. The patient was planned for oesophageal reconstructive surgery electively in follow-up period. After six weeks in the follow-up period, surprisingly large thoracic oesophagus perforation and cervical oesophagostomy was healed spontaneously which was confirmed by gastrograffin study. Spontaneous closure of large thoracic oesophageal perforation is the rare outcome of this injury.
Strategic Entrepreneurial Storytelling: An Applied Framework for Better Pitches
Authors: Key Thomas Martin , Duening Thomas N
Published: April 2021

Entrepreneurs are responsible for bringing innovative products and services to market. However, in order to bring new value to consumers, most entrepreneurs must secure funding. An integral component in the process of resource acquisition is the entrepreneur’s story. Very little research has dealt with the storytelling structure that a good pitch should use. Stories are a fundamental part of the way human beings understand themselves and the world around them. This paper synthesizes the current state of entrepreneurial storytelling and builds a parsimonious framework for strategic entrepreneurial storytelling (SES) through qualitative analysis of actual pitches. Our framework will help entrepreneurs build intentional and compelling stories for their investment pitch through the concepts of SES context, content, and execution.
Studies on an Alternative Method for Preparation and Fermentation of idlis Made from Proso Millet (Panicum miliaceum L.), Horsegram (Macrotyloma uniflorum (Lam) Verdc.) and Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.)
Authors: Sarangharaajan Akshaya , Jagadeesan Saibaba , Palani Kalpana , Melmangalam Ramasubramaniyan Ramanathan
Published: April 2021

The present study was undertaken to develop an alternative idli from proso millet with horse gram and fenugreek seeds. Two types of wet batters (Batter A & Batter B) were prepared by soaking     the ingredients proso millet, horse gram and fenugreek separately (in the ratio by weight 7:2:1) in excess water for 8 hours at room temperature (25±2ºC). In method A, the ingredients were soaked in excess water and whereas in method B, fenugreek was soaked in buttermilk. The soaked ingredients were ground separately with adequate amount of water using a grinder and mixed with the addition of 1% salt. The resulting batter was fermented for 10 hours at room temperature. The batter was analyzed for its microbial load (Total Plate Count, Lactobacillus and Yeast and Mold) and physico-chemical properties (height rise, pH and titratable acidity) by drawing aliquots at fixed intervals. Microbial analysis revealed maximum load at 6th hour of fermentation for TPC, LAB and Yeast growth. Suppressing activity of the organisms was seen after this stage and there was                  a sharp decline in microbial growth (LAB and Yeast). The pH and total titratable acidity ranged between 4.88-6.20 and 0.19–0.51% respectively. The nutritional analysis and sensorial acceptance of the idli formulated with both the batters were also studied. Both the idlis were found to have                   a two-fold increase in protein content and a 50% reduction in carbohydrate content when compared with the traditional rice idli. The sensory analysis was conducted with 100 untrained panelists and the results revealed that idli prepared from Batter A was preferred. A dry ready to cook idli mix was also formulated and was studied for the above said properties. The study highlights that proso millet, horse gram and fenugreek can be used as an effective alternative for preparation of idli.
Examining Profitability, Viability, and Commercialization Level of Beef Cattle Production among Pastoralists in the Simanjiro District of the Manyara Region, Tanzania
Authors: Kibona Cornel Anyisile , Yuejie Zhang
Published: April 2021

Beef cattle production is significant in wealth creation and improving livelihoods of pastoralists, thus reducing poverty. Nevertheless, most pastoralists continue to live in poverty. This study, thus, sought to assess the profitability, viability, and commercialization level of beef cattle production, as well as the socioeconomic characteristics among pastoralists in the Simanjiro District of the Manyara Region, Tanzania. Cross-sectional data were collected from a sample of 398 pastoralists, using interviews and questionnaires. Descriptive statistics, gross margin (GM), Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR), and household commercialization index (HCI) methods were used for data analysis. The results revealed that the average age of the pastoralists was 47.7 years with a family size of 10.9. On average, the pastoralists had about 26.4 years of farming experience. Most of the pastoralists (59.3%) had no formal education. Among the pastoralists, only 3% had access to farm credits. Further analysis showed that 98.7% of pastoralists marketed their beef cattle to primary auction markets of which 75.4% of price-setting methods were inappropriate (unprofitable). Among the pastoralists, only 3.8% added value to beef cattle before selling. The average cattle herd size was 119.7 heads, of which 98.4% of cattle herd sizes were local breed cattle. Gross margin and Benefit-Cost Ratio were 136.8 US$ and 2.9, respectively, while household commercialization index was 3.9%. Medication costs constituted 44% of the total variable costs involved in beef cattle production. This study, thus, concluded that beef cattle production is profitable and highly viable to run as a business. However, the commercialization level is low. Furthermore, keeping local breed cattle, inappropriate pricing methods, low-value addition, reliance on primary auction markets, limited access to credits, low level of education, and costs for medications; continue to be critical obstacles to improving profitability, viability, and commercialization level of beef cattle production among pastoralists.
Clinico-Epidemiological Study of Viral Warts in University of Port-Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Altraide Dasetima D. , Aladeh Dieprebi Agnes , Otike-Odibi Bolaji
Published: April 2021

Background: Warts are benign epidermal neoplasms resulting from infection with human papilloma viruses.

Aim and Objective: To determine the clinico- epidemiological profile of patients with warts.

Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was carried out in University of Port-Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Rivers State, Nigeria. All patients with warts that attended the dermatology clinic from June 2013 to June 2020 were included. Data of the patients were searched for detailed history, complete cutaneous, systemic examinations and retroviral screening. Analysis was done using Microsoft excel, 2013 software.

Results: One hundred and eighteen (118) patients were clinically diagnosed with viral warts during the study period. 36 (30.51%) had genital warts while 82 (69.49%) had non-genital warts. Males were more affected than females and the mean age at presentation was 25.04 years. The most common type of warts seen in children and adults was common warts. High risk behaviours was noted in 85% of patients with genital warts.

Conclusion: Common warts were the most common warts with male preponderance. The head and neck were the most common site, but the extremities were more common in children. Patients in the second decade of life were mostly affected with majority concerned about the cosmetic appearance.
Cardiospermum halicacabum Linn. - A Review of its Medicinal Effects on Human Healthcare System
Authors: Vijayakumar Nandhinipriya , Kumar Kumudhavalli Suresh
Published: April 2021

A current revision based on medicinal effects on the human healthcare system regarding Cardiospermum halicacabum Linn. herb comes under the family Sapindaceae and frequently known as Balloon vine. It can be seen in tropical and subtropical areas mostly. Mainly used for rheumatism treatment for several centuries. Other than rheumatism treatment, it is widely used to treat snakebite and stiffness of limbs. Ayurvedic form of medicine and folk form of medicine was prepared from this herb and also widely used. From various parts especially the root, stem, leaves, and seed of this herb contains plenty of bioactive compounds and widely used as food and medicine to cure lots of disorders. Ethanolic extract and alcoholic extract of various part of this herb are used for many pharmacological activities like antibacterial and anti-biofilm properties, to treat ethanol induce gastric ulcer in rats, protective role against STZ induced diabetic rats, and fertility of male rats using leaf extract, the antiparasitic activity of extract using in vivo method, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties by ex vivo and in vivo method, etc. Different evaluation of this herb is done for controlled toxicity and deterioration regarding quality to ensure safety for the usage of this herb in the form of medicines can be taken into consideration for upcoming researchers to develop and apply different methods based on the separation of bioactive compounds for the treatment of different disorders.
Clinico Pathological Study of Central Nervous System Neoplasms
Authors: Priya V. Sri Lakshmi , Parijatham B. O. , Thanka J.
Published: April 2021

The central nervous system consists of brain and spinal cord invested with meninges. It is made up of two types of cells, Nerve cells or neurons which show numerous long processes and Glial cells which are the supporting cells of the nervous system, which occupy the space between neurons. Four principal types of neuroglial cells are recognized: Oligodendrocytes, Astrocytes, Microglial cells and Ependymal cells. Central Nervous System (CNS) tumors account for 85% of brain tumors and 15% of spinal cord tumors, however metastatic tumors are usually extradural. Brain tumors are the second most common solid tumors in children next to Leukemia. Medulloblastoma is the commonest tumor among the pediatrics age group. Risk factors affecting brain tumors still persist unclear. Neoplasms of central nervous system accounts for approximately 1% of tumors of the human body, and they can be primary or secondary (metastatic), benign or malignant, and intra-axial or extra-axial. Neoplasms of the CNS can occur in both adults and pediatrics populations. Although adult and children may experience similar tumors, their incidences vary greatly with age. To study the spectrum of central nervous system space occupying lesions and the grade of neoplasms according to the guidelines provided by the World Health Organization (WHO). To correlate the diagnosis of these lesions with radiological findings in certain tumors, special stains and Immunohistochemistry were applied wherever needed.
Study of Association of AgNOR vs Ki-67 in Thyroid Lesions
Authors: Hamsini C. , Ramamoorthy V. , Lilly S. Mary
Published: April 2021

The thyroid is an important endocrine gland, which plays a major role in the functions of almost all normal metabolic processes. In present study, by focusing the sections at very high magnification (100x, oil immersion level) AgNOR dots are visible as black dots inside the nucleus. Our studies which have reported that thyroid lesions with less AgNOR counts are more likely to regress as compared to those with high AgNOR counts and that showed its prognostic significance. Thus, the AgNOR technique can be useful as a supportive tool in both the prognosis and therapeutic value in thyroid lesions most commonly in malignant lesions that are stained by routinely performed haematoxylin and eosin. The Present Study is aim to find out the prevalence of thyroid lesions in the patients and also to Study and find out the different types of neoplastic and non- neoplastic thyroid lesions and their relation with AgNOR and Ki-67 proliferation makers. The Present Study focuses on to evaluate the association of AgNOR vs Ki-67 in the prognostic value of thyroid lesions.
Gynecological Problems, Health Behaviors and Health Promotion among Women: Does it Matters in Pakistan?
Authors: Malik Madeeha , Jamil Emmama , Rana Shazana , Hussain Azhar
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Poor socioeconomic status, lower education background, social stigma associated with sharing gynecological issues, paucity of early detection program, limited access to health care facilities, less number of qualified gynecologists and lack of technical equipment in Pakistan are the major factors affecting diagnosis, adequate control and prevention of gynecological problems in Pakistan. The importance of health promoting lifestyle and quality of life has been recognized in developed world for more than two decades, however, this concept is still in infancy in developing countries including Pakistan. Health promoting behavior especially among women is an unexplored area of research in Pakistan.

Objective: The present study was designed to assess health promoting lifestyle behavior among women with different gynecological problems in Pakistan.

Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study design was used. A pre validated questionnaires i.e. HPLP-II was self-administered to a sample of 383 women with different gynecological problems selected using convenience sampling technique. After data collection, data was cleaned, coded and entered in SPSS. Non-parametric tests Kruskal Wallis and Mann Whitney tests (p ≥ 0.05) were performed to find out the differences among different variables.

Results: Significant difference (p ≥ 0.05) in health promoting life style behavior was observed among patients of gynecological problems residing in different setting, having different marital status, different types of gynecological problem and educational background. Patients with gynecological problem residing in rural settings, married, who had ovary cyst and more educated had comparatively improved health promoting lifestyle behavior.

Conclusion: The results of this study revealed low health-promoting behaviors among women with gynecologic problems in Pakistan. Furthermore, the women’s score of spiritual growth, stress management, and interpersonal relations was higher than that of nutrition and physical activity. Therefore, it appears necessary to perform health education programs emphasizing nutrition and physical activities and establish counseling centers for teaching the health-promoting behaviors to  the women for improving their overall quality of life.
Expression OF p16INK4a Gene in Premalignant and Malignant Lesions of Oral Cavity
Authors: Raj R. Vijay David , Marylilly S.
Published: April 2021

Squamous cell carcinoma is the summits malignant neoplasm of the oral cavity. Tobacco and alcohol is identified as risk factors, but squamous cell carcinoma can occur in patients with no known risk factors. Oral cancer is the sixth most common malignancy and is one of the major causes of cancer morbidity and mortality worldwide. Cancer is caused due to a series of alteration in genetic and epigenetic factors that occur in multiple steps and is influenced by the genetic predisposition of the individual and by exogenous environmental factors. These factors result in a series of molecular alteration, including inactivation of tumor suppressor genes expression of p16 has been proposed as a marker for malignant transformation. The p16 staining was correlated between the control and study groups and p 16 was shown to be increasing expressed in premalignant and less expressed in malignant category and was found to be statistically significant by Fischer’s exact test. This study concluded that p16 was increasingly expressed in premalignant lesions and less expressed in malignant lesion. In the present study 9 of the control cases were p16 negative and one case showed sporadic staining. The study group I showed 1 case of sporadic staining, 6 cases of focal staining and 8 cases of diffuse staining. The study II showed 14 cases of sporadic staining, 6 cases of focal staining and 5 cases of diffuse staining. Hence variations cannot be accurately assessed, but it plays a crucial role in assessing pre-malignant lesions progressing to malignancy. To confirm this, a larger sample study is required. As advances in research have leads to greater understanding of potentially malignant lesions in the oral cavity.
Histomorphological and Immunohistochemical Analysis of Gliomas
Authors: Mukilarasi K. R. , Rao Bheema , Lilly S. Mary
Published: April 2021

In the present study, important parameters like frequency distribution of Gliomas, age group of Glioma patients, common sex involved, commonest site of occurrence, clinical presentations, radiological histopathological correlation, p16INK4a expression of the glial tumors are compared with other similar studies. The aim is to find out common age group of Glioma occurrence and it includes higher grades of Astrocytomas. The present study focuses on common symptoms  such as head ache, histopathologial correlation and common tumor etc and to study the Histomorphology of Gliomas to evaluate p16INK4a expression in Gliomas to correlate the p16INK4a expression with the WHO grading of Gliomas. Various parameters like age, sex, site, clinical symptoms, radiological correlation and WHO Grading were analysed.p16 IHC was expressed as positive and negative according to its nuclear staining of >25% cells in 10 continuous fields in 40x and it was found that p16 expression was Positive in all Grade 1 Astrocytoma, 3 out of 5 Grade II Astrocytoma and only in one Grade IV Glioblastoma. p16 expression was negative in 2 Grade II Astrocytomas and in 17 Grade IV Gioblastomas and in 2 cases of Myxopapillary Ependymoma.
Laparoscopic Treatment of Mesenteric Cysts: Report of Two Cases With a Literature Review
Authors: Kawamura Junichiro , Ushijima Hokuto , Yoshioka Yasumasa , Daito Koji , Ueda Kazuki , Tokoro Tadao , Hida Jin-ichi , Imamoto Haruhiko , Okuno Kiyotaka
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Mesenteric cysts are rare intra-abdominal masses. They do not show classic clinical findings and are detected incidentally during imaging because of their absent or nonspecific clinical presentation. We herein report 2 cases of mesenteric cysts that were successfully diagnosed and resected through a laparoscopic approach.

Case presentation

In a 35-year-old man underwent a comprehensive medical checkup at another hospital, during which ultrasound incidentally revealed a cystic mass in his right retroperitoneum. The patient was referred to our hospital for surgical treatment. He was asymptomatic and his medical history was unremarkable. Physical examination revealed no palpable abdominal mass, and all laboratory test results were within normal ranges. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography showed a 7.2-cm-diameter smooth-surfaced, well-demarcated mass behind the right colon without a contrast effect (Fig. 1). We considered the cyst to be benign and localized in the mesentery of the ascending colon. In one patient, the cyst was located in the mesentery of the ascending colon and removed via a right hemicolectomy; in the other patient, the cyst was located in the sigmoid mesentery, which was completely resected through the operative wound under an open procedure after laparoscopic mobilization of the sigmoid mesentery. We chose the laparoscopic approach in both cases because the cysts were considered benign, noninfectious, and nonhemorrhagic. Histologic examination revealed cystic lymphangioma in both cases.

Conclusion

For mesenteric cysts, laparoscopy could be a preferred approach in properly selected patients.
“Hurt people hurt people”: Relations between adverse experiences and patterns of cyber and in‐person aggression and victimization among urban adolescents
Authors: O'Connor Kelly E. , Sullivan Terri N. , Ross Katherine M. , Marshall Khiya J.
Published: April 2021

This study identified subgroups of adolescents with distinct patterns of involvement with overt and relational in‐person and cyber aggression and victimization. We also assessed subgroup similarities and differences in exposure to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), exposure to community violence, and trauma symptoms. Using latent class analysis, we identified three subgroups among 265 adolescents (Mage = 14.3 years; 57% female; 96% African American) residing in three urban high‐burden communities that included youth who reported: (a) combined (cyber and in‐person) aggression and victimization (17%), (b) in‐person aggression and victimization (51%), and (c) adolescents with limited involvement (32%). Youth in the combined aggressive‐victims subgroup had the highest probability of endorsing exposure to community violence, trauma symptoms, and a higher number of ACEs overall as well as higher rates of both verbal and physical abuse compared to the other subgroups. Our results indicated that the adolescents who reported the highest frequencies of aggressive behavior were also the most victimized and traumatized. These findings provide context to aggressive behavior among adolescents living in high‐burden, urban communities and underscore the need for trauma‐informed prevention interventions.
Review on Volatolomic Studies as a Frontier Approach in Animal Research
Authors: Jaimes‐Mogollón Aylen Lisset , Welearegay Tesfalem G. , Salumets Andres , Ionescu Radu
Published: April 2021

This paper presents a comprehensive review of the research studies in volatolomics performed on animals so far. At first, the procedures proposed for the collection, preconcentration, and storing of the volatile organic compounds emitted by various biological samples of different animals are presented and discussed. Next, the results obtained in the analysis of the collected volatile samples with analytical equipment are shown. The possible volatile biomarkers identified for various diseases are highlighted for different types of diseases, animal species, and biological samples analyzed. The chemical classes of these compounds, as well as the biomarkers found in a higher number of animal diseases, are indicated, and their possible origin is analyzed. The studies that dealt with the diagnosis of various diseases from sample measurement with electronic nose systems are also presented and discussed. The paper ends with a final remark regarding the necessity of optimization and standardization of sample collection and analysis procedures for obtaining meaningful results.
A Monomaterial Nernst Thermopile with Hermaphroditic Legs
Authors: Li Xiaokang , Zhu Zengwei , Behnia Kamran
Published: April 2021

A large transverse thermoelectric response, known as the anomalous Nernst effect (ANE) has been recently observed in several topological magnets. Building a thermopile employing this effect has been the subject of several recent propositions. Here, a thermopile is designed and built with an array of tilted adjacent crystals of Mn3Sn. The design employs a single material and replaces pairs of P and N thermocouples of the traditional design with hermaphroditic legs. The design exploits the large lag angle between the applied field and the magnetization, which is attributed to the interruption of magnetic octupoles at the edge of the xy‐plane. Eliminating extrinsic contact between the legs will boost the efficiency, simplify the process, and pave the way for a new generation of thermopiles.
Performance Enhancement of Inkjet Printed Multi‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes Inks using Synthetic and Green Surfactants
Authors: Kamarudin Siti Fatimah , Jaafar Mariatti , Abd Manaf Asrulnizam , Takamura Yuzuru , Masuda Takashi , Yumoto Yudai
Published: April 2021

While the efficiency of synthetic surfactants in controlling the dispersion behaviour of nanomaterials in aqueous solution has been well documented, issues on environmental impact remain unsolved. The aim of this study is to synthesize multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) inks using green surfactants and their chemical, physical, and electrical performances are compared to those of synthetic surfactant inks. The conductive ink is synthesized by dispersing MWCNTs in surfactant solution (gum Arabic [GA], alkali lignin [AL], polyvinylpyrrolidone [PVP] or pluronic F‐127 [PL]) with various concentrations. Among four investigated surfactants, GA/MWCNTs and PVP/MWCNTs inks are selected for further investigation due to their excellent dispersion stability. The printability of both inks is assessed by analyzing the quality of the conductive patterns printed with different inkjet printers theoretically and experimentally. It is found that multi‐nozzle printer is capable of developing printed patterns with lower sheet resistance compared to single‐nozzle printer. Overall, 5 GA/MWCNTs ink recorded as the most stable ink with only 14.4% reduction of absorbance after 30 days and with zeta potential value of −40.3 ± 5.36 mV. Ten layers of 5 GA/MWCNTs ink printed on PVA demonstrate a dense MWCNTs networks, which contribute to the lowest surface resistance of 3.0 kΩ sq−1.
Biosynthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanomaterials from Plant Extracts and Future Green Prospects: A Topical Review
Authors: Huang Yajing , Haw Choon Yian , Zheng Ziyue , Kang Junyong , Zheng Jin‐Cheng , Wang Hui‐Qiong
Published: April 2021

This paper conducts a survey of the synthesis of zinc oxide nanomaterials using bio‐ and green‐ approaches that have attracted researchers’ attention. Compared to the traditional physical and chemical synthesis, the green method of biosynthesis stands out and has become a favorite route in the research field as it conforms to the sustainable development of modern society. The biosynthesis process of ZnO nanomaterials is mainly divided into two parts: one is the pretreatment of plant components; the other is the dissolving of plant extracts in zinc precursor solution to form ZnO nanomaterials. During this process, the precursor that provides the zinc source is reduced to precipitate zinc oxide. As a routine confirmatory test, a series of characterization techniques are conducted, and the results show that the synthesized zinc oxide nanomaterials can exhibit good antibacterial, photocatalytic, anti‐oxidant, and anti‐cancer properties. In addition, prominent trends and pivotal points in visualized networks of bioinspired zinc oxide are further verified and discussed in this work. An outlook for challenges and future studies is also provided.
Cotton growth model under drip irrigation with film mulching: A case study of Xinjiang, China
Authors: Wang Kang , Su Lijun , Wang Quanjiu
Published: April 2021

Crop growth depends on the cumulative temperature of the crop growing season, and growing degree days (GDD) is presently widely used as an index of the effective accumulated temperature. However, there are few reports on the relationship model between cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) growth and GDD. Based on meteorological data and published document from the Xinjiang region in the past 12 yr, we used GDD to replace days after sowing to establish a model for the growth of cotton under drip irrigation with film mulch in Xinjiang, China. In order to analyze the effects of temperature on cotton growth under the different regions and management measures, a correction coefficient method was proposed to obtain the uniform growth law. Then a standardized logistic model was used to analyze growth indices based on GDD, and the relationships between maximum leaf area index (LAImax), maximum dry‐matter accumulation (DMAmax), the harvest index (HI), and total irrigation amount are discussed. Finally, the irrigation amount during the whole growth period is used as an independent variable to predict seed‐cotton yield. The results showed that plant height and growth rate were highest when GDD increased to about 1,100 and 530 °C, respectively. The rates of increase in LAI and DMA were highest when GDD increased to about 900 and 1,000 °C, respectively. Maximum leaf area index was 4.65 and HI was near optimal when irrigation amount for the entire growing season was 500 mm. The GDD could thus improve the accuracy of yield prediction. This study provides an available method for the further establishment of a universal cotton model.
Iron and platelets: A subtle, under‐recognized relationship
Authors: Brissot Eolia , Troadec Marie‐Bérengère , Loréal Olivier , Brissot Pierre
Published: April 2021

The role of iron in the formation and functioning of erythrocytes, and to a lesser degree of white blood cells, is well established, but the relationship between iron and platelets is less documented. Physiologically, iron plays an important role in hematopoiesis, including thrombopoiesis; iron levels direct, together with genetic factors, the lineage commitment of megakaryocytic/erythroid progenitors toward either megakaryocyte or erythroid progenitors. Megakaryocytic iron contributes to cellular machinery, especially energy production in platelet mitochondria. Thrombocytosis, possibly favoring vascular thrombosis, is a classical feature observed with abnormally low total body iron stores (mainly due to blood losses or decreased duodenal iron intake), but thrombocytopenia can also occur in severe iron deficiency anemia. Iron sequestration, as seen in inflammatory conditions, can be associated with early thrombocytopenia due to platelet consumption and followed by reactive replenishment of the platelet pool with possibility of thrombocytosis. Iron overload of genetic origin (hemochromatosis), despite expected mitochondrial damage related to ferroptosis, has not been reported to cause thrombocytopenia (except in case of high degree of hepatic fibrosis), and iron‐related alteration of platelet function is still a matter of debate. In acquired iron overload (of transfusional and/or dyserythropoiesis origin), quantitative or qualitative platelet changes are difficult to attribute to iron alone due to the interference of the underlying hematological conditions; likewise, hematological improvement, including increased blood platelet counts, observed under iron oral chelation is likely to reflect mechanisms other than the sole beneficial impact of iron depletion.
Rhodium‐Catalyzed O−H Bond Insertion Reaction between H‐Phosphoryl Compounds and 2‐Pyridyl Carbenes Generated from Pyridotriazoles
Authors: Dong Chao , Zhang Can , Wang Xin , Shen Ruwei
Published: April 2021

The dirhodium(II) tetraacetate‐catalyzed O−H bond insertion reaction between H‐phosphoryl compounds and 2‐pyridyl carbenes generated from pyridotriazoles is reported to afford a new synthesis of 2‐picolyl phosphinates and phosphates in good to high yields with high selectivity. This new reaction represents a rare example showing a unique reactivity of the P(O)−H (vs PO−H) functionality of H‐phosphoryl compounds with respect to the insertion reactions of diazo compounds under transition metal catalysis.
An Amine–Borane System Featuring Room‐Temperature Dehydrogenation and Regeneration
Authors: Zhang Guojin , Morrison Daniel , Bao Guochen , Yu Haibo , Yoon Chang Won , Song Taekyong , Lee Jihye , Ung Alison T. , Huang Zhenguo
Published: April 2021

Amine–borane complexes have been extensively studied as hydrogen storage materials. Herein, we report a new amine–borane system featuring a reversible dehydrogenation and regeneration at room temperature. In addition to high purity H2, the reaction between ethylenediamine bisborane (EDAB) and ethylenediamine (ED) leads to unique boron–carbon–nitrogen 5‐membered rings in the dehydrogenation product where one boron is tricoordinated by three nitrogen atoms. Owing to the unique cyclic structure, the dehydrogenation product can be efficiently converted back to EDAB by NaBH4 and H2O at room temperature. This finding could lead to the discovery of new amine boranes with potential usage as hydrogen storage materials.
Makrozyklische FKBP51‐Liganden enthüllen einen transienten Bindungsmodus mit erhöhter Selektivität
Authors: Voll Andreas M. , Meyners Christian , Taubert Martha C. , Bajaj Thomas , Heymann Tim , Merz Stephanie , Charalampidou Anna , Kolos Jürgen , Purder Patrick L. , Geiger Thomas M. , Wessig Pablo , Gassen Nils C. , Bracher Andreas , Hausch Felix
Published: April 2021

Subtyp‐Selektivität ist oft eine Herausforderung bei der Wirkstoffentwicklung. Ein Beispiel ist das FK506‐bindende Protein 51 (FKBP51) als Wirkstoffziel. Die am weitesten fortgeschrittenen FKBP51‐Liganden der SAFit‐Klasse sind hochselektiv gegenüber FKBP52, differenzieren aber kaum gegenüber den eng verwandten Proteinen FKBP12 und FKBP12.6. Eine Makrozyklisierungsstudie ergab, dass viele dieser makrozyklischen Analoga eine unerwartete, neuartige Präferenz für FKBP51 gegenüber FKBP12 und FKBP12.6 haben. Strukturellen Studien zufolge weisen diese Makrozyklen einen neuen Bindungsmodus auf, mit einer transienten Protein‐Konformation, die für die kleinen FKBPs ungünstig ist. Mithilfe eines konformationssensitiven Assays zeigen wir, dass dieser Bindungsmodus in Lösung auftritt und charakteristisch für diese neue Verbindungsklasse ist. Die Makrozyklen sind nicht immunsuppressiv, binden FKBP51 in Zellen und blockieren die zelluläre Wirkung von FKBP51 auf IKKα. Die Ergebnisse liefern ein neues chemisches Gerüst für verbesserte FKBP51‐Liganden und die strukturelle Grundlage für eine erhöhte Selektivität.
Addukte des Stammboraphosphaketens H2BPCO und deren Insertionsreaktionen mittels Decarbonylierung
Authors: Hagspiel Stephan , Fantuzzi Felipe , Dewhurst Rian D. , Gärtner Annalena , Lindl Felix , Lamprecht Anna , Braunschweig Holger
Published: April 2021

Die ersten Beispiele für Lewis‐Basen‐Addukte des Stammboraphosphaketens H2B‐PCO und ihre cyclischen Dimere wurden hergestellt. Eines dieser Addukte zeigt unter milden Bedingungen eine Decarbonylierung und anschließende Insertion des Phosphinidens in die B‐C‐Bindung eines Borols, was in der Bildung sehr seltener Beispiele für 1,2‐Phosphaborinine, B,P‐Isostere von Benzol, resultiert. Die starken Donoreigenschaften dieser 1,2‐Phosphaborinine wurden durch die Synthese ihrer π‐Komplexe mit Metallen der Gruppe 6 bestätigt.
Intrinsic Electrocatalytic Activity for Oxygen Evolution of Crystalline 3d‐Transition Metal Layered Double Hydroxides
Authors: Dionigi Fabio , Zhu Jing , Zeng Zhenhua , Merzdorf Thomas , Sarodnik Hannes , Gliech Manuel , Pan Lujin , Li Wei‐Xue , Greeley Jeffrey , Strasser Peter
Published: April 2021

Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) are among the most active and studied catalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in alkaline electrolytes. However, previous studies have generally either focused on a small number of LDHs, applied synthetic routes with limited structural control, or used non‐intrinsic activity metrics, thus hampering the construction of consistent structure–activity‐relations. Herein, by employing new individually developed synthesis strategies with atomic structural control, we obtained a broad series of crystalline α‐MA(II)MB(III) LDH and β‐MA(OH)2 electrocatalysts (MA=Ni, Co, and MB=Co, Fe, Mn). We further derived their intrinsic activity through electrochemical active surface area normalization, yielding the trend NiFe LDH > CoFe LDH > Fe‐free Co‐containing catalysts > Fe‐Co‐free Ni‐based catalysts. Our theoretical reactivity analysis revealed that these intrinsic activity trends originate from the dual‐metal‐site nature of the reaction centers, which lead to composition‐dependent synergies and diverse scaling relationships that may be used to design catalysts with improved performance.
Synthesis, characterization, antimicrobial, and MOE evaluation of nano 1,2,4‐triazole‐based Schiff base ligand with some d‐block metal ions
Authors: Mahmoud Nessma F. , Abbas Ashraf A. , Mohamed Gehad G.
Published: April 2021

Three new metal complexes of 4‐(benzylideneamino)‐5‐phenyl‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazole‐3‐thiol ligand (L) and three transition metal ions: Fe (III), Cu (II), and Zn (II) were synthesized and characterized. The ligand derived from 4‐amino‐5‐phenyl‐1,2,4‐triazole‐3‐thiol and benzaldehyde was synthesized in a 1:1 molar ratio. All the chelates were characterized by elemental analysis, conductivity measurements, thermal analysis, FT‐IR, and 1H‐NMR spectroscopy. The IR spectrum revealed that the Schiff base ligand coordinated in a neutral bidentate manner with the metal ions through the azomethine N and thiol S. The thiol group coordinated to the metal ions without proton displacement as confirmed from the 1H NMR spectra. The conductivity data showed the electrolytic nature of the Fe (III) and Cu (II) complexes while the Zn (II) complex was nonelectrolyte. All metal complexes had octahedral structure as depicted by spectral and elemental analyses. The complexes start decomposition at 35°C, and they decomposed in four to five steps. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis confirmed the presence of metal complexes in nanostructure. The 1,2,4‐triazole Schiff base ligand (L) and its transition metal complexes have been screened for their antibacterial (Gram [+] bacteria): Bacillis subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus, (Gram [−] bacteria): Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa and two fungi: Candida albicans and Aspergillus flavus by agar diffusion method. The two metal complexes were subjected to molecular docking study against crystal structure of Aspergillus fumigatus (PDB ID: 6NE0) and crystal structure of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (PDB ID: 5UHF). The mode of binding between the A. fumigatus (PDB ID: 6NE0) and Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains and the complexes was discussed.
Nickel(II) complexes with N,O‐donor thiopseudourea ligands: Syntheses, structures, and catalytic applications in Kumada–Corriu cross‐coupling reactions
Authors: Shakunthala Kinche , Srivastava Ankit Kumar , Babu G. Narendra , Keesara Srinivas , Pal Samudranil
Published: April 2021

Synthesis, characterization, and physical properties of benzyl‐N′‐(4‐R‐benzoyl)‐N‐(2,6‐diisopropylphenyl)carbamimidothioates, HL1(R = H) and HL2(R = Cl), and their nickel(II) complexes having the general molecular formula [Ni(L1/2)2] (1and2) have been reported. Elemental analysis, magnetic susceptibility, solution electrical conductivity, and various spectroscopic (IR, UV–Vis, and1H NMR) measurements were used to characterize HL1, HL2, and the two complexes (1and2). The molecular structures of all four compounds were determined by single‐crystal X‐ray crystallographic studies. The structures of HL1and HL2showed the imino‐ketone form of both compounds. In each of1and2, the six‐membered chelate ring forming iminolate‐O and azomethine‐N donor two (L1/2)−ligands form a square‐planartrans‐N2O2coordination environment around the metal center. The spectroscopic characteristics of HL1, HL2,1, and2are consistent with their molecular structures. Both complexes were successfully employed as efficient catalysts in Kumada–Corriu CC cross‐coupling reactions of aryl bromides with phenylmagnesium bromide. The reactions provided biaryl products in good to excellent yields with a good substrate scope.
A comparison of the effects of traditional and wet mixing processes of rubber on metal friction and wear
Authors: Han Deshang , Zhang Shoufeng , Wang Kongshuo , Pan Yi , Zhu Donglin , Wang Chuansheng , Pan Yiren
Published: April 2021

Prolonged operations of mixers cause wear of mixer rotors and chamber walls and affect the clearances between the rotors and chamber walls, which reduce the mixing effect, weaken the dispersion of the packing, and affect the quality of rubber products. In this study, the effects of traditional mixing and wet mixing on the friction and wear of the chamber, and the properties of rubber were compared by using 60 phr of a silica natural rubber formulation system. The results show that a silanization reaction occurs between silica and the silane coupling agent during the mixing process and that the reaction rate is fastest when the temperature of the mixing chamber is maintained between 145 and 155°C for 1 min during the mixing process. The products of silanization reaction are ethanol and water; the water vapor that forms at high temperatures corrodes the mixing chamber of the internal mixer and aggravates wear and tear. Due to the high dispersion of silica during wet mixing, the silanization reaction is more complete and water vapor is produced at a high temperature. Hence, the rubber compound obtained by wet mixing has more significant wear on the mixing chamber.