bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The nature of the NO bond in amine oxides
Authors: Martins Danilo Eduardo , Galembeck Sérgio E. 
Published: January 2024

AbstractDespite the ubiquitous presence of amine oxides in chemistry, there is no consensus about the nature of the NO bond in these compounds. In this work, we have used electron density analysis to investigate the nature of this bond in substituted amine oxides, R3NO, and have compared it with the nature of the NO bond in hydroxylamines, R2NOR, and model molecules that have well‐established chemical bond character. The results showed that the NO bond length and relative stability are proportional to the inductive effect of the substituents. Quantum chemical topology, natural bond orbitals (NBO), and natural resonance theory (NRT) analyses indicated that the NO bond is polar covalent in all the studied amine oxides, but the ionic contribution is different. NBO and NRT analyses revealed that molecules with more electronegative substituents have strongly delocalized NO and NR bonds, whereas molecules with electropositive substituents have localized bonds.
Zinc‐bis(imino)pyridine Complexes as Catalysts for Intermolecular Amidation of Benzylic C(sp3)−HBond
Authors: Raj Lakshkar Ritu , Yadav Seema , Thirumoorthi Ramalingam , Ray Sriparna , Dash Chandrakanta 
Published: January 2024

AbstractEfficient NNN‐pincer type bis(imino)pyridine ligand based zinc(II) catalyzed intermolecular amidation of benzylic hydrocarbons with sulfonamides has been developed. The zinc complexes were synthesized by the reaction of bis(imino)pyridine ligand with zinc(II) precursors such as Zn(OAc)2 ⋅ 2H2Oand ZnBr2. The structure of the bis(imino)pyridine‐Zn(OAc)2 complex was characterized by single crystal X‐ray diffraction. The zinc(II)‐bis(imino)pyridine complexes were utilized as catalysts for the intermolecular amidation of benzylic C(sp3)−H bond in the presence of N‐bromosuccinimide (NBS) as an oxidant. A broad range of substrates delivered the products in moderate to good yields. This protocol provides the synthesis of various amides viaC−H activation.
Pb (II) Adsorption over Activated Carbon Prepared from Cedrus Deodara Bark by Na2CO3 Activation: Optimal Design for Modelling and Process Optimization
Authors: Lall Anurag Samson , Pandey Avinash Kumar , Mani Jyoti Vandana 
Published: January 2024

AbstractCedrus deodara is an evergreen cone‐bearing tree and its bark is a common timber industry waste. Activated carbon (CDAC) was prepared from Cedrus deodara bark through Na2CO3 – activation for efficient adsorption of Pb (II) ions. D‐optimal design based on RSM revealed that optimum conditions for preparation of activated carbon involved impregnation ratio=1.02 : 1 (w/w) and pyrolysis temperature=604.7 °C. Using 0.1 g CDAC in 200 ml of 10 ppm Pb (II) solution provided 99.4 % removal at pH 6. D‐optimal design was also employed to optimize the adsorption process and to examine influence of operational parameters including pH, initial Pb (II) concentration and contact time. CDAC was characterized using FE‐SEM, EDS, FTIR, XRD and BET analysis. Adsorption followed pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model and Langmuir isotherm model with maximum monolayer adsorption capacity 236.41 mg g−1. The free energy change (▵G̊=−12.66 kJ mol−1), entropy change (▵S̊=0.28 kJ K−1 mol−1), and enthalpy change (▵H̊=72.07 kJ mol−1) revealed spontaneous and endothermic characteristics of adsorption. For evaluating the performance of CDAC, river water samples from Sangam, a pilgrimage site of India, were treated using a vertical column packed with CDAC. Additionally, the effective cost of CDAC was also evaluated.
Microbial Transformation of Curcumin and Synergistic Investigation of Its Derivatives with Piperine
Authors: Yetim Sami Koray , Özşen Batur Özge 
Published: January 2024

AbstractCurcumin is associated with a wide range of pharmacological properties for the prevention and treatment of a wide spectrum of diseases. The clinical use of curcumin is limited due to its poor bioavailability. New methods were tried to overcome its limited utility, and one of these is the synthesis of new derivatives. Additionally adjunct compounds are used to enhance the bioavailability of curcumin. In order to improve its bioavailability, different formulation techniques such as co‐administration with piperine and nanoparticles are among the aids. Within the scope of this study, it is aimed to obtain curcumin derivatives by microbial transformation and to reveal their biological activities. Initially 25 different microbial strains were used for biotransformation experiments. Among the evaluated, Alternaria alternata converted three metabolites; namely, hexahydrocurcumin, demethoxyoctahydrocurcumin, octahydrocurcumin, were obtained with yields of 6.9 %, 2.6 % and 5.9 %, respectively. The derivatives were tested against various bacteria using the broth microdilution method, however no remarkable activity was observed (MIC>250 μg/ml). Thus, combination of piperine was evaulated on the bioavailability of curcumin derivatives. As a result, it was noted that the activities of metabolites, individually with piperine, were higher compared to the synergistic effect demonstrated by curcumin‐piperine against bacteria for the first time.
Extraction of Lithium and Synthesis of Kaolinite from α‐Spodumene via Alkali Calcination
Authors: Xiong Lu , Hu Haisheng , Liu Meitang , Zhuang Lun , Li Yunfei 
Published: January 2024

AbstractExtracting lithium from spodumene by sulfuric acid roasting is the largest commercialized way at present, which not only consumes a large amount of energy but also produces massive waste residue that will cause environmental problems. In this work, a new process for extracting lithium by directly decomposing α‐spodumene through alkali calcination is designed. The reaction of α‐spodumene with Na2CO3 at 750 °C for 2 h can decompose it and form nepheline and lithium silicate/sodium silicate. The nepheline and soluble lithium silicate/sodium silicate are separated by water leaching, and 93.9 % of lithium can be leached under optimal conditions. In addition, the synthesis of nano‐kaolinite is investigated with nitric acid solutions. Conversions of 98.7 % were obtained with 0.4 M nitric acid at 250 °C and an L/S ratio of 17.5 L/kg. The water leachate can precipitate Li2CO3 with a purity of 99.0 % by CO2 after desilicated by CaO. The final yields of Li2CO3 and kaolinite relative to the Li and Si content of the starting minerals are 91.4 % and 48.5 %, respectively. This new method achieves the full utilization of spodumene with lower energy consumption and demonstrates great potential for industrial applications.
Study on Synthesis and Application of New Benzophenyl Derivatives
Authors: Wang Qinlin , Yan Liru , Song Lu , Feng Chao , Tian Wenjuan , Zhang Bianxiang 
Published: January 2024

AbstractIn this work, two new functionalized monosubstituted and disubstituted benzophenone derivatives have been synthesized through a one‐step nucleophilic substitution treatment using dihydroxybenzophenone and arylsulfonyl chloride as raw materials. All the compounds were characterization by NMR and MS spectroscopy technology and the resulting products exhibited efficient UV light absorption in the range of 220–350 nm. The monosubstituted products can effectively improve the photostability of light‐curable coatings and extend the storage time of coatings, the disubstituted one as photoinitiators possess fantastic photoinitiation effect, and the cured coating is smooth and transparent with good adhesion. The introduction of benzenesulfonyl groups on the skeleton of dihydroxybenzophenone(UV‐0) can enhance the compatibility of the compounds with monomers and active diluents, and also improve the defects of yellowing and small molecule migration of cured products. Among them, the monosubstituted products as UV absorber can effectively improve the photostability of the photocurable coating and extend the storage time of coating. As a photoinitiator, the disubstituted products have good photoinitiation effect, and the cured coating are smooth and transparent, and good adhesion.
Evaluating the online Resilience Skills Enhancement programme among undergraduate students: A double‐blind parallel randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ang Wei How Darryl , Shorey Shefaly , Zheng Zhongjia James , Ng Wai Hung Daniel , Chen Emmanuel Chih‐Wei , Shah Lubna , Chew Han Shi Jocelyn , Lau Ying 
Published: January 2024

AbstractResilience training has beneficial effects on the ability of undergraduate students to withstand adversity and stress. However, there are inconsistencies in the content and delivery approaches for resilience training. Given the increasing shifts towards computer‐assisted instruction, there is a need to develop and evaluate innovative approaches for resilience training. This study aimed to examine the efficacy of two versions of the Resilience Skills Enhancement (RISE) programme. A randomized controlled trial was used to evaluate the effects of blended learning (BL) and a self‐guided RISE programme on the resilience, social support, and learning outcomes of undergraduate students. One hundred and fourteen students were recruited and randomly allocated to receive either BL or the self‐guided RISE programme. The within‐group analyses indicated significant improvements in resilience scores for the BL (F = 37.74, p < 0.001) and self‐guided groups (F = 10.16, p < 0.001) with moderate (d = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.25, 1.00) to large effect sizes (d = 1.11, 95% CI: 0.71, 1.50) respectively. There were also significant differences across the three time points for social support scores for the BL (F = 4.50, p < 0.05) and self‐guided groups (F = 4.59, p < 0.05). Students in the BL group had considerable improvements in self‐efficacy of learning and performance (F = 5.42, p < 0.01) and meta‐cognitive self‐regulation scores (F = 5.91, p < 0.01). In the between‐group analyses, both BL and self‐guided RISE were comparable for resilience, social support, and learning scores (p > 0.05). The study provided preliminary evidence that both modes, BL and self‐guided RISE programme lead to positive effects on the resilience, social support, and learning scores of students.
Rich‐Carbonyl Carbon Catalysis Facilitating the Li2CO3 Decomposition for Cathode Lithium Compensation Agent
Authors: Wu Yingjie , Ju Jie , Shen Bolei , Wei Jie , Jiang Hao , Li Chunzhong , Hu Yanjie 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThe active lithium loss of lithium‐ion batteries can be well addressed by adding a cathode lithium compensation agent. Due to the poor conductivity and electrochemical activity, lithium carbonate (Li2CO3) is not considered as a candidate. Herein, an effective cathode lithium compensation agent, the recrystallized Li2CO3 combined with large specific surface area disordered porous carbon (R‐LCO@SPC) is prepared. The screened SPC makes it easier for nano‐sized Li2CO3 to adsorb and decompose on carbon substrate, meantime, exposing plenty of catalytic active sites of C═O, which can significantly improve the electrochemical activity and conductivity of Li2CO3, thus greatly reducing the decomposition potential of Li2CO3 (4.0 V) and releasing high irreversible capacity (580 mAh g−1) compared to the unmodified Li2CO3 (nearly no capacity above 4.6 V). Meantime, the Li2CO3 can disappear completely without any by‐product after the initial cycle accompanied by partially dissolved in electrolyte, optimizing the composition of SEI. The resultant lithium compensation agent applied to LMFP//graphite full cell exhibits a 19.1% increase in energy density, enhancing the rate and cycling performance, demonstrating great practical applications potential in high energy density lithium‐ion batteries.
Benzothiazole‐endoperoxide conjugates protect PC12 cells against β‐amyloid‐induced cell death via singlet oxygen mediated oxidative detoxification of fibrils
Authors: Wu Hao , Wang Lei , Qian Xiao , Wang Wanwan , Si Yu , Sun Rensong , Akkaya Engin U. 
Published: January 2024

AbstractMetastable endoperoxides with beta‐amyloid fibrils targeting benzothiazole moieties were designed and synthesized. Singlet oxygen released from these endoperoxides by thermal cycloreversion reaction was shown to cause significant structural changes on the amyloid assemblies. Most importantly, the cytotoxicity of the beta‐amyloid fibrils on the PC12 cells were significantly reduced in the presence of endoperoxides. This observation, coupled with the fact that neither external oxygen, nor light is needed for this transformation, is very promising.
Validated high‐performance thin‐layer chromatographic densitometric method for quantification of gallic acid, quercetin, and ursolic acid in the combined formulation of Emblica officinalis, Punica granatum Linn, and Ocimum sanctum Linn extracts
Authors: Patel Kalpana , Vasima Gandhi , Shah Purvi , Thakkar Vaishali 
Published: January 2024

AbstractA quantitative high‐performance thin‐layer chromatography method has been developed for the estimation of three markers gallic acid, quercetin, and ursolic acid in the extracts and combined formulation of Emblica officinalis, Punica granatum Linn, and Ocimum sanctum Linn extracts. Chromatographic development was performed using precoated silica gel 60 F254 TLC plate and final optimized mobile phase as toluene:ethyl acetate:formic acid (4.5:3:0.2 v/v/v), resulting in optimum resolution with Rf of 0.29, 0.51, and 0.78 for gallic acid, quercetin, and ursolic acid, respectively. Gallic acid and quercetin were detected at 258 nm and ursolic acid at 529 nm after derivatization. All markers showed a good correlation coefficient of 0.9950 for gallic acid, 0.9953 for quercetin, and 0.9945 for ursolic acid. The accuracy and precision measured were less than 2% relative standard deviation for all markers. The mean percent recovery found for gallic acid, quercetin, and ursolic acid were within acceptable limits in formulation indicating that the excipients present have no interference. The proposed method was found to be specific, accurate, linear, precise, and robust, and can be applicable for the simultaneous estimation of gallic acid, quercetin, and ursolic acid for the analysis of individual plant extracts and herbal formulation.
Eco friendly, green route method for the preparation of poly ethylene glycol (PEG) mediated surface modified iron oxide nanoparticles (PEG‐IONps) with potential biological activities
Authors: Namasivayam S. Karthick Raja 
Published: January 2024

AbstractAmong the various nanoparticles, excessively paramagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles assume an outstanding job in biomedicine, mostly as Nano clinical imaging and treatment. These nanoparticles’ effective working relies on superficial alteration utilizing different specialists. Among them, polyethylene glycol (PEG)—biocompatible polymer is primarily used attributable to its unmistakable qualities. In this examination, the impact of PEG covering on the counter bacterial and against proliferative properties of iron oxide nanoparticles has been considered. PEG‐covered nanoparticles were incorporated by co‐precipitation technique portrayed by UV–visible spectroscopy, Fourier change infrared spectroscopy, electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and vibrating test magnetometer thinks about which uncovers exceptionally stable crystalline, circular, nanoparticles with high polarization impact. Hostile to the bacterial movement was examined against Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa uncovers PEGlated IONps displayed upgraded action against both tried endure lower fixations. A higher zone of restraint was construed from PEGlated IONps treatment. Hostile to proliferative activity was contemplated against the PC3 cell line (Prostate cancer). PEGlated IONps prompted the most extreme decrease in cell suitability and changed the cell design by chronicle fracture and build‐up of atomic material. PEGlated IONps treatment uncovered a high rate of receptive oxygen species (ROS), which brought about apoptosis or necrotic cell demise. The present discoveries suggest that PEGlated IONps synthesized in this examination could be utilized as potential bioactive operators against medication‐safe pathogenic bacterial strains and malignant growth cells.
Bullies, bluetongue and bills: 2023 in review
Authors: Clark Kathryn 
Published: January 2024

Abstract2023 was a particularly busy year for the veterinary sector, with major changes to RCVS guidance, the re‐emergence of a notifiable disease last seen in 2007 and a competitions and markets review. Add to that a new breed banned under the Dangerous Dogs Act, and it's clear the year was anything but quiet. Kathryn Clark reports.
Hyperprogesteronism associated with adrenocortical tumours in two dogs
Authors: Farges Anais , Crawford Dave , da Silva Carlos Adrega , Ramsey Ian 
Published: January 2024

AbstractA 9‐year‐old, entire, female, soft‐coated Wheaten terrier and a 7‐year‐old, male, neutered greyhound were presented for clinical signs suggestive of hyperadrenocorticism (polyuria, polydipsia, and in the first case, polyphagia and weight gain). Adrenocorticotrophic hormone stimulation test and low‐dose dexamethasone suppression test ruled out excessive production of cortisol. Imaging (abdominal ultrasound and computed tomography) revealed an adrenal mass in both cases. Further hormonal testing revealed hyperprogesteronism. In the first case, surgical treatment was not considered due to vascular invasion of the mass, the patient was treated successfully with trilostane and was still stable 18 months later. In the second case, adrenalectomy was performed, and the clinical signs resolved, the dog was stable 10 months later. We report two clinical cases of progesterone‐secreting adrenocortical tumours and their management.
The Application of Paleoenvironmental Research in Supporting Land Management Approaches and Conservation in South Africa
Authors: Kirsten K. L. , Forbes C. J. , Finch J. M. , Gillson L. 
Published: January 2024

AbstractResearch into past environments and climates of South Africa has significantly grown in recent decades, owing to its rich archeological heritage and high biodiversity. The paleoscience community has worked toward an improved understanding of long-term climate and environmental dynamics, yet the application and dissemination of such information into the realm of conservation and land-use management have remained limited. In this chapter, we briefly explore the current state of paleoenvironmental research in South Africa, recent methodological advancements and potential applications of paleoresearch for natural resource management and conservation. We advocate for a more integrated research approach, bringing together the fields of ecology, ecosystem restoration, conservation biology and paleoecology, as an avenue toward tackling uncertainties in conservation and land-use management practices. We use a case study from the Kruger National Park, to demonstrate the benefits of incorporating a long-term perspective in understanding the natural variability and thresholds of an ecological system, and thereby inform more sound natural resource management strategies and conservation planning.
Biodiversity and Ecosystem Functions in Southern African Savanna Rangelands: Threats, Impacts and Solutions
Authors: Geißler Katja , Blaum Niels , von Maltitz Graham P. , Smith Taylor , Bookhagen Bodo , Wanke Heike , Hipondoka Martin , Hamunyelae Eliakim , Lohmann Dirk , Lüdtke Deike U. , Mbidzo Meed , Rauchecker Markus , Hering Robert , Irob Katja , Tietjen Britta , Marquart Arnim , Skhosana Felix V. , Herkenrath Tim , Uugulu Shoopala 
Published: January 2024

AbstractSavanna rangelands provide diverse communities across southern Africa with livestock and wildlife-based livelihoods, as well as extensive ecosystem services. Historical usage patterns, however, are increasingly challenged by widespread degradation. While regional- and local-scale policy initiatives have attempted to minimize damage and increase the sustainability of savanna rangelands, poverty, land tenure and shifting climate conditions all exacerbate ongoing degradation. Here, we detail the environmental and political setting of southern African savanna rangelands, causes and implications of rangeland degradation, and discuss possible strategies toward improved regional ecosystem management. We present recent knowledge on how degradation by bush encroachment influences biodiversity and biodiversity-mediated ecosystem functioning of semiarid savanna rangelands with the aim of improving rangeland management strategies. Improved rangeland management requires a broad approach which integrates both socioeconomic and ecological frameworks, built upon improved understanding of the strong couplings between flora, fauna, water and land-management strategies.
Trends and Barriers to Wildlife-Based Options for Sustainable Management of Savanna Resources: The Namibian Case
Authors: Hauptfleisch Morgan , Blaum Niels , Liehr Stefan , Hering Robert , Kraus Ronja , Tausendfruend Manyana , Cimenti Alicia , Lüdtke Deike , Rauchecker Markus , Uiseb Kenneth 
Published: January 2024

AbstractUse of wildlife as an alternative or complimentary rural livelihood option to traditional farming has become popular throughout southern Africa. In Namibia, it is considered a climate change adaptation measure since livestock productivity has declined across much of the country in the past few decades. In contrast with neighboring South Africa, Namibian landowners and custodian often avail large open areas to this purpose, such as in the communal conservancies where fences are prohibited. The SPACES II ORYCS project considered wildlife management in a multiple land-use and tenure study area in Namibia’s arid Kunene region. The aim was to investigate positive and negative impacts of the inclusion of wildlife on livelihoods and ecosystem services. Movement is recognized as an important survival strategy for wildlife in arid landscapes such as Namibia’s north-west, and this study found that movement barriers within and between the land uses could present a challenge to wildlife survival and productivity. Notwithstanding, wildlife persisted in crossing many of these barriers, including the national veterinary cordon fence to satisfy their requirements. This often led to human–wildlife conflict, especially with elephants and predators. Interviews found that despite this conflict, an understanding of the need for wildlife and general biodiversity provided complimentary livelihood opportunities and improved land productivity.
Dynamics and Drivers of Net Primary Production (NPP) in Southern Africa Based on Estimates from Earth Observation and Process-Based Dynamic Vegetation Modelling
Authors: Thavhana Mulalo P. , Hickler Thomas , Urban Marcel , Heckel Kai , Forrest Matthew 
Published: January 2024

AbstractTerrestrial net primary production (NPP) is a fundamental Earth system variable that also underpins resource supply for all animals and fungi on Earth. We analysed recent past NPP dynamics and its drivers across southern Africa. Results from the Dynamic Global Vegetation Model (DGVM) LPJ-GUESS correspond well with estimates from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) satellite sensor as they show similar spatial patterns, temporal trends, and inter-annual variability (IAV). This lends confidence to using LPJ-GUESS for future climate impact research in the region. Temporal trends for both datasets between 2002 and 2015 are weak and much smaller than inter-annual variability both for the region as a whole and for individual biomes. An increasing NPP trend due to CO2 fertilisation is seen over the twentieth century in the LPJ-GUESS simulations, confirming atmospheric CO2 as a long-term driver of NPP. Precipitation was identified as the key driver of spatial patterns and inter-annual variability. Understanding and disentangling the effects of these changing drivers on ecosystems in the coming decades will present challenges pertinent to both climate change mitigation and adaptation. Earth observation and process-based models such as DGVMs have an important role to play in meeting these challenges.