bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A CLINICAL STUDY TO EVALUATE THE EFFICACY OF AN AYURVEDIC FORMULATION IN THE MANAGEMENT OF AMLAPITTA WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO NON–ULCER DYSPEPSIA
Authors: Verma Manu , Mehra B L , Bharmauria Vikas
Published: November 2020

The dietary habits of present day, changing lifestyle, stress and strain related to job or domestic worries adversely impact the normal functioning of agni (digestive fire). Such individuals are prone to suffer from Amlapitta (Non-ulcer dyspepsia). The present study was conducted to explore the therapeutic potential of an Ayurvedic formulation containing shankha bhasma, madhuyashti and khadira in the management of Amlapitta with special reference to non-ulcer dyspepsia. The study was conducted on 30 patients selected from O.P.D. and I.P.D. of R.G.G.P.G.A.C., Paprola. Investigations were done to rule out any pathology. The subjective criteria included the symptom complex comprising hrita kantha daha (retro-sternal burning), amlodgara (sour eructations), utklesha (nausea), avipaka (indigestion) chhardi (vomiting), aruchi (loss of appetite), kukshi daha (epigastric burning), udaradhamana (flatulence) and klama (mental fatigue). Most of the patients showed moderate to marked improvement (~86%) in their symptoms as analyzed on visual analogue scale and grade score. The results obtained in the study revealed that the trial drug was quite effective and safe in treating Amlapitta.
GANDHAKA RASAYANA PREPARATION AND ANALYSIS OF PHYSICOCHEMICAL PROPERTIES
Authors: Vyas Suyog D , Deshpande Sudhir
Published: November 2020

The aims and objectives are to prepare Gandhaka Rasayana by the classical method mentioned in Ayurved Prakash and to evaluate parameters for process standardisation of Gandhaka Rasayana. Shuddha Gandhaka obtained by Shodhan procedure was powdered. In the preparation of Gandhaka Rasayana Bhavana Sanskar is the key element. Gandhaka Rasayana is prepared by 67 bhavanas made by nine different Bhavya dravya and their Upkalpana. The powder of Shuddha Gandhaka, Kwath, Swarasa and Phanta were prepared by the classical method. Physicochemical analysis was performed keeping in view of standardisation aspects of formulation. Final product standardisation is a part of thorough process standardisation. There is change in organoleptic properties in the process of Gandhaka Rasayana formulation. Ash value increased and % sulphur decreased as number of Bhavana increases. There was a rightward shift in pH in the formulation of Gandhaka Rasayana. Gandhaka Rasayana is the abundant source of Potassium. Gandhaka Rasayana is a nine step chain reaction resulting in the final product. Fingerprint of every step of Gandhaka Rasayana can be measured or quantified with the help of total Ash value, % Sulphur and Spectrophotometric analysis. Thus these parameters help us in the process Standardisation of Gandhaka Rasayana. Parameters for final product standardisations of Gandhaka Rasayana are pH value and evaluation of minerals from Flame photometry.
PHARMACEUTICAL PREPARATION AND DETERMINATION OF QUALITY STANDARDS OF SARASWATARISHTA: A HERBO-MINERAL ALCOHOLIC FORMULATION
Authors: Koyande Aishwarya Krishna , Gadgil Swati Shankar
Published: November 2020

Saraswatarishta is a herbo-mineral hydro alcoholic formulation prescribed for various memory and sleep related disorders as well as a brain tonic. It is a unique formulation where the presence of swarna during the fermentation process may be responsible to manifold the action of remaining herbal drugs. Though the formulation is prescribed widely and available in the market with different varieties, there is a lack of documentation regarding the standard operating procedure and quality of the product. In the present study, Saraswatarishta and Swarna Saraswatarishta were prepared following standard operating procedure. Both the formulations were subjected to physico-chemical tests and values were found within the normal limits of arishta preparation from Ayurvedic Pharmacopeia of India. The sample of Swarna Saraswatarishta was analysed to check the presence of swarna using the ICP-MS technique. It was found below the level of quantification which interprets the absence of swarna in the formulation. This is the first and foremost report regarding the presence of Swarna in Swarna Saraswatarishta.
Formation of Frozen Blackcurrant Fruits Quality
Authors: Osokina N. , Kostetska K. , Gerasymchuk H.
Published: November 2020

Aims: Fruits of a multivitamin culture of blackcurrant have a pronounced seasonality of consumption. The essence of the problem is in the scientific substantiation of the rational way of fruits freezing in order to preserve their quality.

Place and Duration of Study: The research was conducted during four years in the conditions of the laboratory of the Department of Technology of Storage and Processing of Plant Products at Uman National University of Horticulture and the workshop for rapid freezing of Uman canning plant.

Methodology: Prepared berries of the consumer degree of ripeness of Pilot Oleksandr Mamkin, Mynai Shmyriov, Novyna Prykarpattia, Biloruska solodka varieties in the string bags were frozen by slow (-20 to -22°С) and rapid (-30 to -32°С) methods, packed in paraffined boxes, polyethylene bags of 400–500 g by weight. Losses in fruit weight, content of ascorbic acid, dry soluble substances, sugars, acids, sugar-and-acid index were determined during and for 10 months of storage (-18°C).

Results: True chemical composition of the fruits took into account losses of their weight. It radically changed the level of indicators. Weight losses of the fruits was lower by a third during fast freezing, however, the overall indicators did not differ significantly until the end of storage: 11.9–12.1% by slow method against 10.1–11.2% by rapid way. The highest losses in the fruits were during the first 3 months, during 4–5 months – their level was stabilized and somewhat increased to the end of storage. Advantages by fruits packing in polyethylene bags were as follows: losses were 6–7 times lower than by string bags and 4–5 times – in paraffined boxes. Advantages of rapid freezing were in 1.2–1.6 times lower losses of the components of chemical composition. Usually, the frozen fruits of Biloruska solodka variety were better than other varieties under favourable weather conditions, they were not inferior.
Effect of Seaweeds on Growth and Yield of Boro Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Pramanik Madhusri , Dutta Dhananjoy , Samui Indranil
Published: November 2020

Introduction: Seaweed extract, an organic bio-stimulant has emerged as a promising tool for increasing crop growth and yield without affecting soil health and environment.

Aim: i) To study the efficacy of seaweed extract on growth and yield of boro rice ii) To evaluate the nutrients uptake and residual soil fertility under different treatments iii)To assess the economic viability of using the bio-stimulants in rice production.

Study Design:  Seven treatments were laid out inrandomized block design with three replications.

Place and Duration of the Study: Boro seasons of 2016-17 and 2017-18 at Instructional Farm of BCKV, Nadia, under new alluvial zone of West Bengal.

Methods: Field experiment was carried out in boro (summer) rice (cv. Satabdi) with seven treatments viz., T1-100% RDF (120:60:60 kg/ha N, P2O5 and K2O), T2-100% RDF+ biozyme liquid @ 2.5ml/l of water (seed soaking), T3-100% RDF + biozyme liquid @ 10ml/l of water (root dipping), T4- 100% RDF+ biozyme granule @15 kg/ha (soil application at 15 and 45 DAT)+ liquid @ 625 ml/ha (foliar spray at 15 and 45 DAT), T5-75% RDF + biozyme liquid, T6-75% RDF+ biozyme granule+ liquid  and T7-75% RDF+ amaze-X granule @ 10kg/ha at 45 DAT + biozymegranule + liquid.

Results: Results revealed that the maximum grain yield (4.88 t/ ha) was obtained under T7 followed by T4 and T6, however, the net return (Rs.25576/ha) and benefit-cost ratio (1.51) of T6 treatment gave maximum.

Conclusion: It may be concluded that T7 treatment performed best in terms of growth and yield of Boro rice but T6 treatment gave the highest B:C ratio and net income which is supposed to be more economical to the small and marginal farmers. Therefore, integrated use of 75% RDF and biozyme soil & foliar application can be recommended for boro rice under new alluvial zone of West Bengal.
Modelling and Prediction of Outpatients Department on Hospital Attendance at the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital Using the Box-Jerkins ARIMA Model
Authors: Borbor Bridget Sena
Published: November 2020

Aims: Outpatient department is one of the first points of contact for patients accessing health care and provide patients with their primary healthcare as they seek services at the facility. With the introduction of community-based health planning and services, there seems that the outpatient departments have witnessed corresponding progressive and significant increase in attendance at the various health facilities in Ghana of which the research seeks to investigate.

Materials and Methods: The data collected were outpatient hospital attendance of patients on a monthly basis from 2012 to 2019 obtained from the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital. Box Jenkins’s methodology of time series analysis was used to analyse the data. The modified Box Pierce (Ljumg-Box) Chi-square statistic criteria of the largest  and minimum Chi-square statistic value was in selecting the best fitted model for outpatient department attendance.

Results: The autocorrelation function (ACF) and partial autocorrelation function (PACF) plots suggested an autoregressive (AR) process with order 2 and moving average (MA) process with order 1 which was used in selecting the appropriate model. Candidate models were obtained using the lowest Chi-square value and highest value to select adequate models and the best model. The best non-seasonal model for the data was ARIMA (2, 2, 1) for the outpatient department attendance. Model diagnostics test was performed using Ljung-Box test.

Conclusion: The findings of the forecast showed that OPD visits will increase in the next five years. Specifically, continued use of the outpatient department in accessing health care at all levels will experience an increase in hospital visits across the months from June 2020 to December 2025.  Recommendations from this research included among others that, the health authorities should continue to expand the outpatient department services to increase access to healthcare by all as it services goes to the core people in the community.
Process Optimization to Eliminate Automatic Alignment Failures on the Scalable Device
Authors: Jr. A. Sumagpang , Gomez F. R. , Rodriguez R.
Published: November 2020

The paper focused in addressing the auto align defect at in-strip testing of a semiconductor scalable device in a leadframe technology. Pareto diagram and potential risk analysis were completed to identify the top reject contributors and eventually come-up with the robust solution. Reverse flow was employed to eliminate the alignment issues. The reverse flow, which is testing prior singulation process, eventually resolved the auto align and other singulation related defects as testing is done on a strip form. Ultimately, the error-proofing or Poka-Yoke approach by reverse flow lead to the elimination of auto align failures at final test. For future   works, the parameters and learnings could be used on devices with similar assembly defect occurrence.
Flexible parametric modeling of survival from age at death data: A mixed linear regression framework
Authors: Rouby Etienne , Ridoux Vincent , Authier Matthieu
Published: November 2020

Many long‐lived vertebrate species are under threat in the Anthropocene, but their conservation is hampered by a lack of demographic information to assess population long‐term viability. When longitudinal studies (e.g., Capture‐Mark‐Recapture design) are not feasible, the only available data may be cross‐sectional, for example, stranding for marine mammals. Survival analysis deals with age at death (i.e., time to event) data and allows to estimate survivorship and hazard rates assuming that the cross‐sectional sample is representative. Accommodating a bathtub‐shaped hazard, as expected in wild populations, was historically difficult and required specific models. We identified a simple linear regression model with individual frailty that can fit a bathtub‐shaped hazard, take into account covariates, allow goodness‐of‐fit assessments and give accurate estimates of survivorship in realistic settings. We first conducted a Monte Carlo study and simulated age at death data to assess the accuracy of estimates with respect to sample size. Secondly, we applied this framework on a handful of case studies from published studies on marine mammals, a group with many threatened and data‐deficient species. We found that our framework is flexible and accurate to estimate survivorship with a sample size of 300. This approach is promising for obtaining important demographic information on data‐poor species.
Sphingolipid‐enriched domains in fungi
Authors: Santos Filipa C. , Marquês Joaquim T. , Bento‐Oliveira Andreia , de Almeida Rodrigo F.M.
Published: November 2020

Plasma membrane carries out multiple physiological functions that require its dynamic and tightly regulated organization into specialized domains of different size, stability, and lipid/protein composition. Sphingolipids are a group of lipids in which the plasma membrane is particularly enriched, thus being crucial for its structure and function. A specific type of sphingolipid‐enriched plasma membrane domains, where ergosterol is depleted and lipids are tightly packed in a rigid gel phase, has recently been found in several fungal species, including yeasts and moulds. After presenting the main biophysical features of gel domains and the experimental method for their detection in the fungal plasma membrane, we review these sphingolipid‐enriched gel domains and illustrate their importance to both unicellular and multicellular fungi. First, the biophysical properties of the fungal sphingolipid‐enriched domains will be analysed taking into consideration the plasma membrane sphingolipidome. Next, their possible biological roles will be summarized, including their relations with plasma membrane compartments and involvement in stress responses. Moreover, since the plasma membrane is a target for several antifungal compounds, a biophysical connection between sphingolipid‐enriched domains and antifungal action will be explored.
Crystal Facet Engineering of Single‐Crystalline TiC Nanocubes for Improved Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Song Miao , Chen Dehong , Yang Yafeng , Xiang Maoqiao , Zhu Qingshan , Zhao Hongdan , Ward Liam , Chen Xiao‐Bo
Published: November 2020

Single‐crystalline {100} faceted TiC is of great significance in theory to a large number of engineering applications owing to its extraordinary catalytic properties. However, the {111} planes are prevalent in conventional TiC powders given their favorable thermodynamic stability during the initial low stoichiometric growth stage. Herein, a disproportionation–decomposition strategy is developed to directly produce Ti and C atoms to synthesize single‐crystalline {100} faceted TiC powders. Outstanding electrochemical performance of TiC {100} crystal planes in terms of the hydrogen evolution reaction is evidenced by an overpotential of 392 mV at 10 mA cm−2, which is 52% lower than that of randomly faceted TiC counterparts (815 mV).
Stepwise Suzuki−Miyaura Cross‐Coupling of Triborylalkenes Derived from Alkynyl−B(dan)s: Regioselective and Flexible Synthesis of Tetrasubstituted Alkenes
Authors: Tani Tomohiro , Takahashi Naomi , Sawatsugawa Yuuki , Osano Mana , Tsuchimoto Teruhisa
Published: November 2020

Alkenes with three boryl groups of differing reactivities were synthesized and subsequently cross‐coupled regioselectively with aryl halides in a stepwise manner to afford tetrasubstituted alkenes. The key triborylalkene is derived from the platinum‐catalyzed diboration of alkynyl−B(dan)s with B2(pin)2. Due to excellent regioselectivity and reaction efficiency of each step starting with alkynyl−B(dan)s, tetrasubstituted alkenes with desired carbon frameworks at desired positions can be prepared in high yields. For example, an alkene with four distinct aryl groups, p‐MeOC6H4, p‐CF3C6H4, p‐MeC6H4, and p‐NCC6H4, was obtained in 71% overall yield via six steps, starting with the dehydrogenative borylation of p‐MeC6H4C≡CH with HB(dan). Moreover, a variety of tetrasubstituted alkenes, including regio‐ and stereoisomers of the above tetraarylalkene, AIE‐active TPTPE and derivatives thereof, and (Z)‐tamoxifen, a well‐known breast cancer drug, were accessed via the developed strategy.

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A Numerical Procedure to Evaluate Memory Effects in Non‐Equilibrium Coarse‐Grained Models
Authors: Meyer Hugues , Wolf Steffen , Stock Gerhard , Schilling Tanja
Published: November 2020

When developing coarse‐grained models of complex processes out of equilibrium, one encounters the non‐stationary generalized Langevin equation. The most important feature of this equation is the presence of a non‐stationary memory kernel. Here, a method is presented to infer this memory kernel from MD simulation data in non‐equilibrium processes. The method provides an improvement of a previously published numerical scheme, the applicability of which is limited by a truncation problem. As an illustration, the method is applied to ion dissociation of NaCl in water, for which non‐trivial dampened oscillations are observed in the memory kernel.
Calculating the temperature and degree of cross‐linking for liquid silicone rubber processing in injection molding
Authors: Weißer Dennis F. , Walz Daniel , Schmid Johannes , Mayer Dennis , Deckert Matthias H.
Published: November 2020

Processing of liquid silicone rubber (LSR) in the injection molding process has a high economic potential. Since there are some fundamental differences compared to classical thermoplastic injection molding, up to now there is a lack of well‐founded knowledge of the process which allows an estimation of the cycle time. Because, in addition to reverse temperature control, LSR processing also involves an irreversible temperature‐ and time‐dependent chemical reaction. In this paper, the complex cross‐linking reaction is first modelled phenomenologically using dynamic differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurements and the well‐fitting Kamal‐Sourour model. Afterwards, a temperature and cross‐linking simulation is set up, which reliably simulates the time‐ and travel‐dependent temperature profile and degree of cross‐linking in the mold. Therefore, the released exothermic cross‐linking heat is also taken into account. The simulated temperature values are verified with measurements in the cavity during the injection molding process. The measured values correspond very well with the simulated values at different mold temperatures. It is shown that the influence of the cross‐linking heat on the overall temperature profile in the LSR component during the injection molding process is relatively low. Nevertheless, the model is necessary to determine the degree of cross‐linking ‐ it can be used to calculate the cycle time at which the component of a certain cross‐section can be ejected at a known tool temperature and is fully cross‐linked. With this knowledge, existing processes can be optimized in terms of mold temperature and curing time, but also new components can be calculated economically.
An ultrasound assisted cyclocondensation reaction for the efficient synthesis of [1]benzopyranopyrido[d]pyrimidines using porous graphene/MoO3
Authors: Abdolmohammadi Shahrzad , Afsharpour Maryam
Published: November 2020

In this paper, we report a feasible protocol for the preparation of [1]benzopyranopyrido[d]pyrimidines via expeditious sonochemical route. The reaction efficiency was evaluated by influence of several parameters including sonication power, sonication time, different solvents, and using porous graphene/MoO3 nanocomposite as catalyst, for the first time. The effect of the ultrasonication comparing with the conventional heating on the synthesis of the titled compounds shows that the ultrasonic irradiation is required to rich the cyclized products. The structural properties of porous graphene/MoO3 nanocomposite were determined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), powder X‐ray diffractometry (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), Raman spectroscopy, and also by TGA analysis. Confirmation of the structures of compounds 4a–4h were also established with IR, 1H NMR, and 13C NMR spectroscopic data and also by elemental analyses.
Advancements in traditional and nanosized flame retardants for polymers—A review
Authors: Vahidi Ghazal , Bajwa Dilpreet S. , Shojaeiarani Jamileh , Stark Nicole , Darabi Amir
Published: November 2020

Synthetic polymers are ubiquitous materials widely used in construction, automotive, electronics, and countless commercial products. With the growing trend of polymer applications in everyday life, upholding the rigorous fire safety regulations has become a matter of concern. In this regard, numerous studies have been conducted for improving the fire retardancy of polymers, mainly through incorporating a diverse group of fire‐retardant compounds into polymer‐based composites. This review article aims to present a comprehensive overview of recent advances in the fire‐retardant categories for polymeric materials especially emphasizing the nanosized fire retardants. Along with an attempt to focus attention on the consumption of conventional and possibly harmful fire retardants, potential eco‐friendly alternatives are represented. A detailed discussion on the flame retardation mechanisms and conventional fire characterization techniques are also discussed.
Poly(vinylidene fluoride) with zinc oxide and carbon nanotubes applied to pressure sheath layers in oil and gas pipelines
Authors: Gondim Fernanda Fabbri , Tienne Lucas Galhardo Pimenta , Macena da Cruz Barbara de Salles , Chaves Erica Gervasoni , de Carvalho Peres Augusto Cesar , Marques Maria de Fatima Vieira
Published: November 2020

In this work, PVDF composites containing 0.2% (m/m) of carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), PVDF with 5.0% (m/m) of zinc oxide (ZnO), and composites containing both particles in the same contents in the matrix were melt processed in a mini‐extruder machine with double screws, using the counter‐rotation mode. Composites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), dynamic‐mechanical analysis (DMA), and contact angle tests (CA). The samples presented the predominance of the α phase, with an increased degree of crystallinity as well as an increase in dimensional stability by incorporating both fillers, showing a synergistic effect between these particles, as shown on FTIR, DSC, and XRD results. SEM images showed a good dispersion of high aspect ratio particles. In general, DMA and TGA analysis showed that composites had not decreased their thermal and mechanical performance when compared to neat PVDF. Results of CA analysis showed an increase in the hydrophobicity of the sample containing MWCNTs. Permeability tests were also performed using a differential pressure system, combining high temperature and pressure, obtaining permeability measures and time lag. This work presents an alternative of composite materials, suggesting its application in the internal pressure sheath layers of oil and gas flexible pipes.
Transforming public records management: Six key insights
Authors: Dootson Paula , Tate Mary , Desouza Kevin C. , Townson Peter
Published: November 2020

Records management in the public sector is integral for delivering public good. However, several institutional challenges inhibit the required implementation of innovative and information‐centric tools to transform records management in response to the challenges of digitization and to capitalize on new opportunities in the digital economy. In this article, we make recommendations to overcome institutional and legislative barriers to transform records management in the public sector.
Should value‐added school effects models include student‐ and school‐level covariates? Evidence from Australian population assessment data
Authors: Marks Gary N.
Published: November 2020

There is an enduring issue on whether student‐ and school‐level covariates should be included in value‐added school effects models, in addition to prior achievement. Proponents argue that the addition of covariates allows fairer comparisons of schools, whereas opponents argue that it excuses poorly performing schools and obscures policy‐relevant school differences. School‐level covariates are problematic statistically, but it has been argued that mean school prior achievement should be included in school effects analyses to reduce error. This article reports on school effects analyses of Australia‐wide data of approximately 1.5 million students in both primary and secondary schools that took national assessments in five achievement domains between 2013 and 2018. With appropriate controls for prior achievement, school effects are generally small and most often not statistically significant. The addition of student‐level covariates: further reduces school effects, since part of the school effects is absorbed by the effects of the covariates, which are unlikely to reflect causal social processes; reduces the proportion of schools with significant school effects; does not improve predictive power; increases the amount of missing data; and further reduces the consistency of school effects between domains and their stability over time. Mean school prior achievement did not improve consistency or stability. Incorporating covariates in school effects analyses opens a Pandora’s Box of specification and measurement issues, undermining the legitimacy of school comparisons. It is concluded that researchers and administrators of educational jurisdictions should focus mainly on simpler models based on prior achievement.
Discursive constructions of equity in Australian higher education: Imagined worlds and the case of people seeking asylum
Authors: Baker Sally , Field Rebecca , Burke Rachel , Hartley Lisa , Fleay Caroline
Published: November 2020

There is a strong rationale for people seeking asylum and refugees given temporary protection to be key beneficiaries of Australian higher education equity practices. However, despite the extreme precarity they face, this group remains among the most educationally disadvantaged populations in Australia. Here, we use critical discourse analysis to examine the publicly available statements of 38 Australian universities to identify discursive representations of equity practices and connections, with our analytic gaze focused through the lens of people seeking asylum. Using a three‐part analytic heuristic examining ‘statements’, ‘practices’ and ‘connections’, we offer a critical discourse analysis of how each public university expresses its commitment to the equity agenda in powerful stakeholder‐facing documents—such as annual reports, strategic plans and media releases—and we compare this analysis against institutional stated practices with regard to people seeking asylum. In identifying misalignments between equity statements and stated practices, we suggest that institutional equity narratives articulate ‘imagined worlds’, in which all marginalised groups can access higher education. We argue that now is the time to move beyond these ‘imagined worlds’, to enact stated commitments to universal education, by instituting real and effective practices to facilitate equitable access to Australian higher education for people seeking asylum.
Determination of cefixime in pure form, in pharmaceutical products and biological samples through fluorescence quenching of eosin Y
Authors: Khan Muhammad N. , Irum  , Mursaleen Muhammad
Published: November 2020

A simple, economic and validated spectrofluorimetric method was developed to assay cefixime (CFX). The technique relies on the quenching effect of CFX on the fluorescence intensity of eosin Y in the presence of acetate buffer pH 3.4 to produce an ion‐pair complex that is measured at 549 nm using an excitation wavelength of 300 nm. Reaction‐influencing factors were carefully investigated and optimized. The fluorescence quenching value was linear to the CFX concentration in the range 0.2–40 μg/ml with a correlation coefficient of 0.992. The calculated limit of detection and limit of quantification were found to be 0.00242 and 0.0080 μg ml−1, respectively. The selectivity of the method was confirmed by studying the effects of excipients and no interference was distinguished. The developed method was used to determine CFX in marketable products and in biological samples. To validate the method, directives of the International Conference on Harmonization were applied and per cent recoveries obtained ranged from 95.30 to 102.50% for pharmaceutical products and from 97.00 to 103.00% for biological fluids.
Novel narrow band red emitters based on mixed metal oxides and their application in hybrid white light‐emitting diodes
Authors: Singh Kasturi , Vaidyanathan Sivakumar
Published: November 2020

A series of high‐efficiency narrow band red‐emitting La2M2O9:Eu3+ (M = Mo/W) phosphors for white LEDs was synthesized using a conventional solid‐state reaction method. All the compositions show absorption in the near ultraviolet (UV) light region due to charge transfer from O to M (M = W and Mo). In order to investigate the luminescence quenching effect, the Eu3+ concentration was varied in the La2M2O9 lattice. The tungstate analogue had a quantum yield of 46.5%, whereas the molybdate equivalent had a comparatively subordinate value (15.4%). The phosphor could be competently excited by ~395 or 465 nm photons (could be integrated well with a near‐UV or blue LED chip) and showed dominant red emission electric‐dipole transition (5D0→7F2) with sharp spectral lines due to 4f–4f electronic transition of the Eu3+ ion and potential red‐emitting colour converters for white LEDs. The red LED was fabricated by integrating the best phosphor composition with a near‐UV LED and a white hybrid LED was fabricated by conjugating with a yellow organic dye and a red phosphor with near‐UV LEDs. The white hybrid LED showed an excellent colour rendering index (83%), with CIE colour coordinates (0.313, 0.365) and CCT (6280 K).
Trade, revenue, and welfare effects of the AfCFTA on the EAC: An application of WITS‐SMART simulation model
Authors: Shinyekwa Isaac M. B. , Bulime Enock N. W. , Nattabi Aida Kibirige
Published: November 2020

The paper estimates the likely effects of the AfCFTA on the east african community(EAC) countries. The paper adopts two approaches. First, a trend analysis of the EAC exports and imports to and from the rest of Africa and the world at large using data from the Trade Map database. Second, we use the WITS‐SMART analytical framework. It is established that the EAC countries mainly export agricultural commodities and products, and minerals, which are not likely to be readily imported by the rest of Africa. This is because between 2001 and 2018, the African continent heavily relied on external markets for exports and imports. Therefore, signing the AfCFTA agreement is a welcome step, but it may not necessarily increase EAC trade with the rest of African and intra‐African trade. Results for the trade effects suggest a mixed effect among the EAC countries. All the EAC countries incur tariff revenue losses, although this varies in absolute amounts and proportions. Whereas Uganda and Burundi experience positive welfare effects, Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda experience negative welfare effects. The policy implications include: a need to build capacity for production; pursue product diversification and sophistication; innovate and attract investments; adopt high international products standards; and target industrialization as a must.
Skeletal muscle and adipose tissue changes in the first phase of treatment of pediatric solid tumors
Authors: Joffe Lenat , Shen Wei , Shadid Grace , Jin Zhezhen , Ladas Elena J.
Published: November 2020

Body composition is increasingly recognized as an important factor in cancer outcomes. Use of computed tomography (CT) in cancer care provides the opportunity to accurately quantify whole‐body lean and adipose tissues from images at the third lumbar spine. We sought to substantiate the use of routinely captured, single‐slice chest CT images at the thoracic level for evaluation of skeletal muscle, residual lean tissue, and adiposity among pediatric solid tumor patients. We performed a retrospective analysis among children who underwent treatment for a solid tumor at Columbia University Irving Medical Center. Skeletal muscle (SM), residual lean tissue (RLT), and adipose tissue cross‐sectional areas (cm2) were analyzed at diagnosis and at first follow‐up for disease evaluation (6–14 weeks). Imaging analysis was performed utilizing slice‐O‐matic image analysis software. Of the 57 patients identified, 39 had chest CT imaging that included intervertebral level T12‐L1, and 22 also had concurrent imaging at L3. Correlation coefficients between body composition variables at T12‐L1 and L3 were strong (r = 0.93–0.98). Paired t‐test showed a significant decrease in SM (−4.2 ± 8.12, p = 0.003) and RLT (−10.7 ± 28.5, p = 0.025) as well as a trend toward a significant increase in visceral adipose tissue (3.10 ± 9.65, p = 0.052). Univariable analysis demonstrated a significant association between increasing age and increased SM loss (β = −0.496 with SE = 0.194, p = 0.011), and a lack of association between body mass index and body composition changes. We provide the first line of evidence that single‐slice images from routinely obtained chest CT scans provide a simple, readily available mechanism for assessing body composition in pediatric solid tumor patients. Adverse body composition changes were observed, particularly among adolescents and young adults.

Precis: Changes in body composition can be detected via routine CT images in pediatric patients undergoing treatment for solid tumors.
Enhancement of tumor lethality of ROS in photodynamic therapy
Authors: Ming Lan , Cheng Kai , Chen Yu , Yang Rui , Chen Daozhen
Published: November 2020

In the process of photodynamic therapy (PDT) treatment of tumors, reactive oxygen species (ROS) plays a key role in destroying tumor tissues. However, traditional PDT often has limited ROS killing capacity due to hypoxia in the tumor microenvironment (TME) or obstruction by the ROS defense system, resulting in poor efficacy. Therefore, enhancing the killing effect of ROS on tumors is the core of enhancing the anti‐tumor effect of PDT. In recent years, many studies have developed a series of strategies to enhance the ability of ROS to kill tumors in view of the limitations of the TME on PDT. This article summarizes the commonly used or innovative strategies in recent years, including not only frequently used methods for hypoxia in the TME but also innovative strategies to inhibit the ROS defense system.
Micaryolanes A and B, Two New Caryolane‐Type Sesquiterpenoids from Marine Streptomyces sp. AH25
Authors: Wu Jiequn , Zhu Yuqin , Zhang Mengxue , Li Hongji , Sun Peng
Published: November 2020

Caryolanes, known as β‐caryophyllene alcohols, are widely occurring sesquiterpenes in plants. From the cultures of marine Streptomyces sp. AH25, two new caryolane sesquiterpenes, micaryolanes A and B (1 and 2), together with caryolan‐1,9β‐diol (3) were isolated. Their structures were elucidated by extensive analyses of HR‐MS and NMR spectroscopic data. The absolute configurations were assigned via the CD data of the in situ formed [Rh2(OCOCF3)4] complex and supported by comparison of experimental and calculated specific rotation values. Compounds 1–3 exhibited no activities against Hep3B or MG‐63 cell lines or against Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria. The results not only enriched the caryolane family, but also proved bacteria as a productive source of terpene metabolites.
A Luminescence‐Based Coupled Enzyme Assay Enables High‐Throughput Quantification of the Bacterial Second Messenger 3’3’‐Cyclic‐Di‐AMP
Authors: Zaver Shivam A. , Pollock Alex J. , Boradia Vishant M. , Woodward Joshua J.
Published: November 2020

Cyclic dinucleotide signaling systems, which are found ubiquitously throughout nature, allow organisms to rapidly and dynamically sense and respond to alterations in their environments. In recent years, the second messenger, cyclic di‐(3’,5’)‐adenosine monophosphate (c‐di‐AMP), has been identified as an essential signaling molecule in a diverse array of bacterial genera. We and others have shown that defects in c‐di‐AMP homeostasis result in severe physiological defects and virulence attenuation in many bacterial species. Despite significant advancements in the field, there is still a major gap in the understanding of the environmental and cellular factors that influence c‐di‐AMP dynamics due to a lack of tools to sensitively and rapidly monitor changes in c‐di‐AMP levels. To address this limitation, we describe here the development of a luciferase‐based coupled enzyme assay that leverages the cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase, CnpB, for the sensitive and high‐throughput quantification of 3’3’‐c‐di‐AMP. We also demonstrate the utility of this approach for the quantification of the cyclic oligonucleotide‐based anti‐phage signaling system (CBASS) effector, 3’3’‐cGAMP. These findings establish CDA‐Luc as a more affordable and sensitive alternative to conventional c‐di‐AMP detection tools with broad utility for the study of bacterial cyclic dinucleotide physiology.
Psychosis‐risk syndromes in adolescence: Clinical features and tips for care providers
Authors: Thompson Elizabeth
Published: November 2020

Psychotic disorders are among the most costly and emotionally devastating mental health conditions. Although typically conceptualized as an adult disorder, psychosis often emerges in adolescence, and earlier onset is associated with poorer prognosis. Not surprisingly, longer periods of untreated illness have been linked to poorer clinical, functional, and cognitive outcomes. This indicates a critical need to bolster symptom recognition and early treatment efforts to maximize recovery and minimize the personal and financial sequelae of illness.
Systemic sclerosis with renal crisis and pericardial effusion
Authors: Prudhvi Kalyan , Jonnadula Jayasree , Kutti Sridharan Gurusaravanan , Dominguez Mary
Published: November 2020

Scleroderma renal crisis occurs in 10% of patients with systemic sclerosis carrying a poor prognosis. A kidney biopsy is consistent with thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) with clinical findings discerning it from other TMAs. Progression to ESRD occurs in 50% of patients which can lead to further complications necessitating emergent interventions including dialysis. Patients with scleroderma can have pericardial involvement with tamponade physiology requiring intervention such as pericardiocentesis.
Pretilachlor poisoning: A rare case of a herbicide masquerading as organophosphate toxicity
Authors: Shilpakar Olita , Karki Bipin , Rajbhandari Bibek
Published: November 2020

Acute oral intoxication of pretilachlor, a chloroacetanilide herbicide, in humans can present with similar clinical manifestations of organophosphate toxicity. Clinicians should be aware of such mimickers for proper management of the patient.
The Impact of Membrane Composition and Co‐Drug Synergistic Effects on Vancomycin Association with Model Membranes from Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy
Authors: Sarangi Nirod Kumar , Stalcup Apryll , Keyes Tia E.
Published: November 2020

Invited for this month's cover picture is the group of Prof. Tia E. Keyes. The cover picture shows the interaction of vancomycin at microcavity spanned lipid bilayer membranes—a versatile biomimetic platform for drug–lipid interaction studies. Using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, we show interaction and penetration of the drug vancomycin through lipid membrane is promoted when it is co‐administered with rifampicin. Read the full text of the Article at 10.1002/celc.202000818.
Challenges and Opportunities to Enhance Flexibility in Design and Operation of Chemical Processes
Authors: Riese Julia , Grünewald Marcus
Published: November 2020

Flexibility receives increased interest in chemical engineering and is discussed as one measure to deal with upcoming challenges for the chemical industry. In this paper, different types of flexibility are presented, and flexibility needs are illustrated. The focus is on the evaluation and classification of available solutions to enhance flexibility. Solutions and future challenges across all length scales of chemical engineering are discussed: from tailored catalyst properties to decoupling of processes by means of storage.
Contrasting voluntary versus involuntary layoffs: Antecedents and outcomes
Authors: Chhinzer Nita
Published: November 2020

Although organizations execute layoffs to adapt their labour force to changing business demands, there is no existing empirical assessment of antecedents and outcomes associated with varying layoff implementation techniques (voluntary vs. involuntary layoffs). Accordingly, this research modifies a turnover framework to empirically evaluate the impact of work‐related and non‐work–related variables on layoff decisions, for both voluntary and involuntary layoff implementation techniques. Management and employee dyads in three companies assessed 976 employee profiles using a policy‐capturing approach. Management decisions regarding involuntary layoffs are influenced most by the employees' job performance, job satisfaction, and job commitment. Comparatively, employee decisions regarding voluntary layoffs are influenced by severance pay, job satisfaction, job performance, and family size. Theoretic and management implications are discussed.
Strengths use at work: Positive and negative emotions as key processes explaining work performance
Authors: Dubreuil Philippe , Ben Mansour Jamal , Forest Jacques , Courcy François , Fernet Claude
Published: November 2020

Strengths use has been frequently associated with work performance. However, the psychological processes involved in this relation remain unclear. Drawing on the Broaden‐and‐Build theory of positive emotions and extending previous work on this topic, the objective of this study was to examine the mediator role of positive and negative emotions in the relation between strengths use and work performance. Results confirm previous findings regarding positive emotions, but further reveal that negative emotions also play a significant role in this relation. Taken together, these results suggest that strengths use in the workplace not only contributes to positive emotions, but also reduces the occurrence of negative emotions, which in turn promotes work performance. Implications for research and employee management are discussed.
Positive impact of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act Medicaid expansion on Louisiana women with breast cancer
Authors: Chu Quyen D. , Li Tingting , Hsieh Mei‐Chin , Yi Yong , Gibbs John F. , Lyons John M. , Wu Xiao‐Cheng
Published: November 2020

Background

Louisiana is one of the few Southern states that enacted the Medicaid expansion of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA). To the authors' knowledge, the issue of how this has affected the breast cancer landscape in Louisiana is unknown. The authors have postulated that ACA expansion had a positive impact for Louisiana women diagnosed with breast cancer.

Methods

Data from the Louisiana Tumor Registry regarding 14,640 women aged 20 to 64 years who resided in Louisiana and were diagnosed with American Joint Committee on Cancer stage 0 to stage IV breast cancer between 2012 and 2018 were analyzed. The study period was divided into 2 groups: 1) before ACA expansion (January 1, 2012–May 31, 2016); and 2) after ACA expansion (June 1, 2016–December 31, 2018). The chi‐square test and multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess the impact of ACA expansion. A P value <.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

After ACA expansion, the rate of uninsured patients decreased from 5.4% to 3.0% (P < .0001), and the rate of Medicaid recipients increased from 11.6% to 17.7% (P < .0001). The diagnosis of stage I breast cancer increased from 36.8% to 44.7% (P < .0001), whereas the diagnosis of stage III breast cancer decreased from 10.7% to 8.5% (P < .0001). The receipt of radiotherapy after breast‐conserving surgery increased from 81.2% to 84.0% (P = .0035), and the receipt of radiotherapy within 90 days increased from 57.2% to 61.7% (P = .0012). After adjustment for sociodemographic and clinical variables, the models demonstrated that ACA expansion decreased the uninsured rate by 48% (odds ratio [OR], 0.52; 95% CI, 0.43‐0.63), increased the diagnosis of early‐stage disease (stage0 to stage II) by 27% (OR, 1.27; 95% CI, 1.15‐1.41), increased receipt of radiotherapy after breast‐conserving surgery by 19% (OR, 1.19; 95% CI, 1.03‐1.37), and reduced the delay of receipt of radiotherapy by 16% (OR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.74‐0.95).

Conclusions

ACA expansion in Louisiana reduced the uninsured rate, increased the diagnosis of early‐stage disease, and increased access to treatment.
Determinants of p16/Ki‐67 adequacy and positivity in HPV‐positive women from a screening population
Authors: Benevolo Maria , Mancuso Pamela , Allia Elena , Gustinucci Daniela , Bulletti Simonetta , Cesarini Elena , Carozzi Francesca Maria , Confortini Massimo , Bisanzi Simonetta , Rubino Teresa , Rollo Francesca , Marchi Natalina , Farruggio Angelo , Pusiol Teresa , Venturelli Francesco , Giorgi Rossi Paolo ,   for the New Technologies for Cervical Cancer 2 (NTCC2) Working Group
Published: November 2020

Background

The objective of this study was to describe the determinants of adequacy and positivity of the p16/Ki‐67 assay in a human papillomavirus (HPV)‐positive screening population enrolled within the New Technologies for Cervical Cancer 2 (NTCC2) study.

Methods

ThinPrep slides were immunostained for p16/Ki‐67; each slide had 3 reports from different laboratories. The authors included population‐related, sampling‐related/staining‐related, and interpretation‐related variables in the analyses. Adequacy and positivity proportions were stratified by variables of interest. Univariate and multivariate logistic models were used to identify determinants of adequacy and positivity.

Results

In total, 3100 consecutive HPV‐positive cases were analyzed. Because every slide was interpreted by 3 centers, 9300 reports were obtained, including 905 (9.7%) that were inadequate and 2632 (28.3%) that were positive. The percentage of cases in which all 3 reports were inadequate increased with increasing age of the women and with inadequate cytology. The highest percentage of adequacy in all 3 reports and of cases with all 3 reports positive was observed in specimens from women who had grade ≥2 cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN2+), atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance or more severe (ASC‐US+) cytology, or mRNA positivity. The number of inadequate reports was significantly associated with increasing age, inadequate cytology, mRNA negativity, and scant cellularity. A positive p16/Ki‐67 report was associated with an ASC‐US+ result and with a positive mRNA result in cases both with and without CIN2+ but was associated with an HPV type 16 and/or 18 infection only in CIN2+ cases. The presence of CIN2+ was strongly associated with dual staining positivity.

Conclusions

The interpretation of p16/Ki‐67 results may be influenced by several different variables, all of which are part of the steps in the procedure, and by the characteristics of the screened population.