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Palm oil industry generates a lot of waste, including empty fruit bunches (EFB), palm kernel shells (PKS), and palm oil mill effluent (POME), leading to environmental concerns. To become carbon-neutral by 2050, palm oil-producing countries are exploring the technological conversion of palm oil biomass (POB) into biofuels as an option to fossil fuels. This study introduces a novel approach to converting POB waste into sustainable biofuel, leveraging advanced catalytic processes and optimized reaction conditions. The innovative techniques achieve a conversion efficiency of over 85 %, substantially higher than existing method, while reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 60 %. This dual impact on efficiency and environmental benefit underscores the transformative potential of our work. Moreover, our process utilizes 90 % of POB waste, addressing waste management challenges. These breakthroughs position our research as a pivotal contribution to sustainable energy solutions and circular economy practices. Gasification of EFB and PKS generates high-quality syngas, which can be further processed into hydrogen fuel. Integrated biorefineries, combining two or more conversion methods, enhance overall efficiency, reduce management costs, and promote sustainability. The biorefineries can be optimized by integrating renewable resources such as solar energy, co-utilizing POBs, and synergizing with existing palm oil mill infrastructure. This integration supports the transition to a circular economy, achieving zero waste and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. However, POB commercialization has challenges such as optimized conditions for maximum yield, high cost, gas leakage, and social conflicts. The LCA of POB-based biofuels showed a reduction in EI compared to fossil fuels through anaerobic digestion and pyrolysis. Overall, this paper concludes with policy recommendations and regulatory frameworks essential to advance the commercialization of POB-based biofuels, highlighting the need for continued research and development to establish valorization systems.

Quadruplet regimens (anti-CD38 monoclonal antibodies [mAbs] with proteasome inhibitor [PI] and immunomodulatory drugs [IMiDs]) are increasingly being investigated in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM). The objective of our study was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to measure the efficacy and toxicity of quadruplet regimens used in NDMM. Embase, MEDLINE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, clinical trial registries, and meeting libraries from inception to 24 January 2024, in addition to American Society of Clinical Oncology conference abstracts 2024, were searched using terms reflecting multiple myeloma and components of the quadruplet regimen. Included studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared backbone regimens consisting of a PI and IMiD vs the same regimen plus an anti-CD38 mAb in NDMM. We identified 7 RCTs including 3716 patients. Compared with triplets, quadruplets increase the overall response rate (ORR; relative risk [RR], 1.03; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01-1.05) and progression-free survival (PFS; hazard ratio [HR], 0.55; 95% CI, 0.46-0.66). Quadruplets increase the rates of minimal residual disease (MRD) negativity at 10–5(RR, 1.39; 95% CI, 1.23-1.58) and 10–6(RR, 1.62; 95% CI, 1.36-1.94). Quadruplets improve overall survival (OS; HR, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.53-0.79). There was a slight increase in the rates of grade 3 to 4 infections (RR, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.07-1.39) noted with quadruplets compared with triplets. Overall, in this meta-analysis, quadruplets were associated with improved efficacy including ORR, MRD negativity, PFS, and OS, with a slight increase in infection rates. Quadruplet regimens represent a new standard of care, particularly in transplant-eligible NDMM.

Candelilla wax (CW) is a natural lipid source that can be used to make biodegradable and edible coatings and films for fruits. However, CW alone does not provide sufficient antimicrobial and antioxidant properties to prevent microbial spoilage and oxidative deterioration of fresh products. This study aims at evaluating the applicability of CW blended with Bryophyllum pinnatum extract(BPE), a plant with medicinal and phytochemical properties, to enhance the shelf life of fruits. CW and BPE were mixed at different ratios and applied as coatings on banana, cucumber, lemon, and apple. The coated fruits were stored at room temperature for several days and evaluated for weight loss (WL), pH, and physical appearance. The results showed that the edible CW coating mixed with B. pinnatumextract could extend the shelf-life of selected fruits by lowering their weight loss (WL), as compared to those without coating (p≤ 0.05; paired t-test). It was observed that % WL of banana was significantly higher in the control group than in the coated banana (p≤ 0.05; paired t-test) and that the highest WL (4.5%) was reached on the 4thday. The lowest WL (2.7%) was observed in the banana with edible coating with methanolic extract (ECME) formulation. The coating formed a complex layer that blocked the movement of H2O molecules through the selected fruits, preventing water loss. The smallest pH change was observed in the banana coated with the extract, indicating that the coating was suitable for extending the shell life of banana. Overall, CW enriched with BPE maintained the quality of their products for marketability.

The convergence of air pollution control and climate change mitigation is critical in the pursuit of sustainable development. Therefore, technological innovations are pivotal in addressing the dual challenges of air pollution and global warming. This work presents an overview of technological solutions aimed at reducing air pollution and mitigating GHG emissions. While evaluating their technological strengths and limitations in real applications, this work offers a framework to promote a transition toward blue skies and net-zero emissions. This work also identifies the main sources and negative impacts of air pollution on public health and the environment. A literature overview of published articles from 1976 to 2024 showed that integrating emission reduction technologies are vital in real-word applications. More than 98% of the SO2in the flue gas can be removed using cutting-edge desulfurization technology. SO2is eliminated from the environment either unaltered or as sulfuric acid and sulfates. Meanwhile, thermal incinerators boast an impressive efficiency, capable of eliminating 99% of gaseous pollutants. Although existing pollution control technologies are promising to mitigate climate change, they still require further research, development, demonstration, and deployment to overcome barriers and achieve their potential. By examining the effectiveness of control technologies and proposing adaptable strategies, this work highlights the potential of integrating air quality improvement efforts with climate actions. Not only this addresses the global need for cleaner air, but also contributes to the overarching goal of climate stabilization.

This review explores the advancements and remaining challenges in inorganic membrane science, particularly focusing on their potential for industrial applications. It delves into the fundamental principles of inorganic membrane design, fabrication, and characterization techniques. The review also critically analyzes key challenges faced by inorganic membranes, such as physical aging, plasticization, defective formation, and fouling. Strategies for overcoming the limitations to enhance permeability and long-term stability are discussed. Specific examples are provided to illustrate the applications of inorganic membranes in gas separation and wastewater treatment, emphasizing their high chemical stability, as compared to conventional polymeric membranes. The energy efficiency of inorganic membranes for volatile organic compound (VOC) removal at ambient temperatures is highlighted with PDMS (polydimethylsiloxane) serving as an example for removing toluene, xylene, and acetone from gas streams. Finally, the review assesses future research directions to further enhance the engineering applicability of inorganic membranes for wastewater treatment and gas separation, solidifying their position as a promising technology for diverse industrial processes.

Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are responsible for greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions due to the release of CH4and N2O from biological processes. To reduce their carbon footprint in WWTPs, novel solutions are needed to ensure a sustainable wastewater treatment. Biochar-derived composites (BDCs) can play a key role in minimizing GHG emissions. Biochar is a carbon-rich solid from biomass pyrolysis, which can be further modified with certain functional groups to enhance its adsorption capacity. They also can contribute to carbon sequestration and climate change mitigation by converting waste biomass into stable carbon forms. This work reviews recent progress in the application of BDCs for wastewater treatment and discusses their challenges. While providing an overview of synthesis methods, adsorption mechanisms, and regeneration strategies of BDCs, and their technological benefits, this work also identifies knowledge gaps and research directions for BDCs in wastewater treatment. A literature survey of published articles (1998–2023) shows their promising findings in wastewater treatment applications. A complete removal of 100 mg/L Cr(VI) was attained by 1.25 g/L of BC-CMC-nZVI at pH 5.5, enabling it to meet the effluent limit mandated by legislation. Fe2O3@BC had a high Cr(VI) adsorption capacity (142.86 mg/g), higher than those of magnetic BCs made by co-precipitation (23.85 mg/g), impregnation-pyrolysis (43.122 mg/g), and reductive co-deposition (58.82 mg/g). Iron-loaded magnetic burley tobacco stem biochar achieved 54.92 mg/g of Cr(VI) adsorption capacity, higher than that of raw burley tobacco biochar (3.84 mg/g). This difference could be due to their benefits such as high surface area, porosity, exchange capacity, and tunable surface chemistry. Due to their advantages, BDCs are promising solutions for achieving carbon neutrality in wastewater treatment, one of the major sources of GHG emissions. By adopting BDCs as adsorbents, WWTPs not only can contribute to net zero emissions, but also can improve their environmental performance and economic viability.

For over 100 years, the English Courts have entertained applications by trustees for directions, including to bless proposed “momentous” exercises of powers. Recently, this jurisdiction has extended through judicial decisions to corporate office-holders. The jurisdiction has received increasing scrutiny, not least in relation to the vexed question of immunity, resulting in the Court of Appeal’s recent decision in Denaxe Ltd v Cooper[2023] EWCA Civ 752, a case concerning Blackpool Football Club. This article considers the jurisdiction’s origins and expansion, before concluding that there are cogent reasons for its continued existence in relation to both trusts and the corporate sphere.

Superhydrophobic cotton fabrics with multifunctional features are highly desired in domestic and outdoor applications. However, the short coating longevity and hazardous reagents significantly reduce their commercial-scale applications. Herein, we introduce CeO2nanoparticles and stearic acid (SA) to develop a fluorine-free, durable superhydrophobic cotton fabric that mimics the lotus effect. The pristine cotton fabric is treated with APTES-functionalized CeO2nanoparticles by immersion followed by a dip and drying treatment with a 2% myristic acid solution. This sequential process creates a stable superhydrophobic cotton fabric (SA/CeO2-cotton fabric) with a water contact angle of 158° and a water sliding angle of 5°. The results are attributed to the combined effect of CeO2nanoparticles and stearic acid that enhances surface roughness and reduces surface sorption energy. APTES facilitates the durable attachment of CeO2nanoparticles and stearic acid to the cotton fabric. The modified cotton fabric is characterized by advanced analytical tools, demonstrating enhanced superhydrophobicity, self-cleaning, and antiwater absorption properties. Additionally, it exhibits remarkable UV-blocking (UPF 542) and antibacterial properties. The designed superhydrophobic cotton fabric unveils good mechanical, thermal, and chemical durability. The proposed strategy is simple, green, and economical and can be used commercially for functional fabric preparation.

This work synthesized eco-friendly silver hybridized polymer nanocomposite (Ag@PNC) via a free radical mechanism. The Ag@PNC consists of a network of starch grafted to vinyl acetate (VA), lactic acid (LA), and Methylmethacrylate (MMA), which was reinforced with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). The effect of incorporation of AgNPs into composite and properties was studied using different techniques, i.e., FTIR, SEM, EDS, and TGA/DTG. The SEM analysis indicates that the pore size of the Ag@PNC decreased with the blending of AgNPs, increasing the composite adsorption capacity and thermal stability. The FTIR confirms the grafting of monomers on starch and thermal degradation and melting of the composite assessed by TGA/DTG. Further, the adsorption kinetics and isotherm data indicate that the pseudo-second-order (R2= 0.9898) and Langmuir adsorption isotherm (R2= 0.99829) are suitable for the composite with a maximum adsorption capacity of 561.2563 mg/g. These results indicate the potential of synthesized nanocomposite in water treatment at a low cost with efficient reusability.

Recent advancements in technologies to produce natural gas from shales at economic rates has revealed new horizons for hydrocarbon exploration and development worldwide. The importance of shale oil and gas has aroused worldwide interest after the great success of production in North America. In this study, different marine source rocks of Pakistan are evaluated for their shale gas potential using analogs selected from various North American shales for which data have been published. Pakistani formations reviewed are the Datta (shaly sandstone), Hangu (sandy shale), Patala (sandy shale), Ranikot (shaly sandstone), Sembar (sandy shale) and Lower Goru (shaly sandstone) formations, all of which are known source rocks in the Indus Basin. Available geological data of twenty-six wells (e.g., geological age, depositional environment, lithology and thickness), geochemical data (e.g., total organic carbon (TOC), vitrinite reflectance (Ro), rock pyrolysis analysis and maturity), petrophysical data (e.g., porosity and permeability) and dynamic elastic parameters estimated from logs (Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio) have been investigated. According to this study, the Pakistani shales are explicitly correlated with the most active shale gas plays of North America. The burial depths or geological position of the Pakistani shales are generally comparable to or slightly higher than the North American shales based on the available data. The thicknesses of the Pakistani (except for the Sembar shale) and North American shales fall in similar ranges. In terms of mineralogical composition, all of the Pakistani shales except the Ranikot and Hangu shales have quartz contents in the 40% to 50% range (approximately), which is similar to most of the North American shales. The high maximum TOC of the Hangu and Sembar shales (10%) is comparable to the New Albany, Antrim and Duvernay shales. The maximum TOC values for the Ranikot (3%), Lower Goru (1.5%) and Datta (2%) shales are lower than all North American shales. The TOC of Patal Shale (∼5%–10%) is comparable to Fayetteville and Eagle Ford shales. The geological and geochemical parameters of all the Pakistani shales reviewed in this work are promising regarding their shale gas prospects. However, geomechanical data are required before conclusions on these shales’ economic production can be made with confidence.

Abstract This investigation concerns the analytical solutions for the Riabouchinsky time-dependent flows of an incompressible second-grade fluid. Semi-inverse method has been used for the solutions of highly non-linear differential equations. [...]

Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) must be suspected in patients presenting with a unilateral vestibular schwannoma at a young age who are therefore at theoretical risk of developing bilateral disease. We [...]

Background: Immune activation or high levels of stress may lead to increased metabolism of tryptophan during pregnancy. Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), the “keystone” periodontal pathogen, induces immune and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) activation. Thus, we hypothesized that larger gestational decreases in tryptophan and elevations in neopterin and kynurenine would occur in pregnant women with elevated IgG antibodies to Pg capsular (K) serotypes. Methods: Venous blood of 52 Hispanic pregnant women with a mean age (SD) of 31.8 (5.9) years was sampled once per trimester of pregnancy (V1, V2, V3), and plasma was obtained and stored. ELISAs were used to measure Pg capsular (K) serotype IgG serointensity (V1 only) and neopterin levels (V1-V3). Tryptophan and kynurenine (V1-V3) were measured with high-performance liquid chromatography. The participants having IgG serointensity for any of the seven Pg K serotypes in the highest quartile were defined as the “High PgK_IgG” group and those having IgG serointensity for all K serotypes in the lowest three quartiles were defined as the “Low PgK_IgG” group. Statistics included multivariable linear and nonparametric methods. Results: Significant decreases in plasma tryptophan levels and increases in neopterin during gestation were found in “High PgK_IgG” women but not in “Low PgK_IgG” women. Kynurenine changes were not significantly different between the two groups. Conclusion: If replicated in larger studies and further characterized clinically, radiologically, and microbiologically, our results may potentially lead to novel interventional targets, as well as the development of more complete prognostic and predictive interactive biomarkers for adverse obstetrical outcomes and peripartum depression, and their prevention.

Byline: Zahoor Ahmed, Zahoor Mohyuddin Abstract: A total of 427 patients with major chest trauma were treated in two major hospitals in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, during a 10-year period. In 64 of 426 patients, flail chest injury was the dominant factor among other injuries that were insignificant. Among 64 cases of flail chest injury, 26 were managed by internal fixation of ribs, whereas the remaining 38 were managed by endotracheal intubation and intermittent positive-pressure ventilation alone. Of the patients treated by internal fixation 80% (21/26) were weaned from the ventilator within an average of 1.3 days, whereas the remaining 20% (5/26) continued to need assisted ventilation for a longer duration; the total average duration of assisted ventilation for the whole group was 3.9 days. In comparison, among 38 patients with flail chest injury treated by endotracheal intubation and ventilation alone, the average duration of assisted ventilation was 15 days. In the group treated by internal fixation 11% (3/26) of the patients ultimately required a tracheostomy, whereas in the patients treated by intubation and ventilation alone tracheostomy was required in 37% (14/38) of the cases. In the group treated by internal fixation, chest infection was documented in 15% (4/26), septicemia in 4% (1/26), and barotrauma in 0%; in the other group these complications occurred in 50% (19/38), 24% (9/38), and 8% (3/38) of the cases, respectively. The mortality rate was 8% (2/26) in the surgically treated patients, whereas it was 29% (11/38) in the other group. All the deaths in both groups were ascribed to adult respiratory distress syndrome. Average stay in the intensive care unit was 9 days for the patients treated by internal fixation, whereas it was 21 days in the group treated by intubation and ventilation alone. The treatment of flail chest injury in our series by internal fixation resulted in speedy recovery, decreased complications, and better ultimate cosmetic and functional results and proved to be cost effective. (J THORAC CARDIOVASC SURG 1995;110:1676-80) Author Affiliation: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Article History: Received 25 July 1994; Accepted 7 March 1995 Article Note: (footnote) [star] From the Departments of Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Mafraq Hospital, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates., [star][star] Address for reprints: Zahoor Ahmed, FRCS, FICS, FACA, P.O. Box 28233, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates., a 0022-5223/95 $5.00 + 0, aa 12/1/64590

The airway exchange catheter can be used both to ventilate the lungs and to act as a guide for reintubation in patients of all ages who have a tenuous airway. [...]

Purpose: Drawing from the Job Demands–Resources (JD-R) theory, this paper aims to identify unique job demands, job resources and personal resources in the context of Indian women flexpatriates (IWFs) and understand how they manage to perform in their short-term international assignments (SIAs). Design/methodology/approach: This study takes a qualitative approach by conducting in-depth interviews of 15 IWFs. Findings: Thematic analysis reveals dual-role workload, emotional demands and diluted importance of the assignments as job demands; opportunity for professional growth, social support and combination of work and leisure as job resources, and building up of self-esteem and self-efficacy as personal resources. Also, the unique Indian family structure, Indian women's desire to have “me-time” and zeal to strengthen their identity emerge as differentiating factors for IWFs that enhance their performance. Practical implications: IWFs are enthusiastic to take up SIAs as it gives them opportunity to enhance their career and strengthen their identity. In addition to their willingness to travel, advance planning of SIAs and profiling of women based on marital status, family type and children can be done for selection. Social implications: Despite hailing from paternalistic and male-dominating society and facing familial challenges, IWFs find SIAs liberating, which gives them an opportunity to spend some “me-time,” strengthen their identity and enhance their professional growth. Originality/value: This is the first qualitative study contextualizing flexpatriation with gender and region by studying Indian women professionals.

Septic arthritis of the sternoclavicular joint is an uncommon condition, and the diagnosis can be missed until a complication occurs. The sternoclavicular joint is more often involved in ankylosing spondylitis, [...]

Certain subsets of patients with multiple myeloma or its precursor conditions are overtreated with current approaches to therapy. Herein, we highlight several key areas where we believe de-escalation of treatment is needed. Dedicated trials to assess these de-escalation approaches and urgent changes to current clinical practices are needed.

To our knowledge, no study has evaluated the quality of control groups in randomised controlled trials of multiple myeloma. We aimed to do a systematic review of randomised controlled trials of multiple myeloma to ascertain the quality of the control groups used. PubMed (MEDLINE), Embase, Cochrane Controlled Register of Trials, and CinicalTrials.gov were searched for articles of randomised controlled trials of multiple myeloma based in the USA that initiated participant enrolment between Jan 1, 2010, and June 30, 2020. A control group regimen was considered to be inferior if a previous randomised controlled trial had shown an improved progression-free survival versus the control group before enrolment. Of 49 identified randomised controlled trials, seven (14%) began enrolling patients into inferior control groups after an existing superior regimen to the control had already been published. Nine (18%) of the 49 trials continued enrolment on substandard control groups after data emerged during the study enrolment period. The median time that newer data emerged regarding inferiority of the control group from the time a trial first enrolled a patient was 13 months (IQR 8–29 months). 12 (75%) of these 16 randomised controlled trials are published, and nine (75%) of the 12 published trials had overlapping investigators with trials that had previously shown the inferiority of the control group being used. Greater scrutiny on the quality of control groups in randomised controlled trials of multiple myeloma is needed.

ObjectiveCentral line associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). We designed a CLABSI Prevention Package (CPP) to decrease NICU CLABSI rates, using evidence-proven interventions.DesignThis was a quality improvement (QI) project. Data collection was divided into three phases (pre-implementation, implementation and post implementation). SQUIRE2.0 guidelines were used to design, implement and report this QI initiative.SettingA tertiary care level 3 NICU at the Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH), Karachi, Pakistan.PatientsAll patients admitted to the AKUH NICU from 1 January 2016 to 31 March 2018 who had a central line in place during their NICU admission.InterventionsCPP used evidence-based interventions focusing on hand hygiene, aseptic central line insertion techniques and central line care, prevention of fungal infections and nurse empowerment.Main outcome measuresCLABSI rates pre and post intervention were recorded. Secondary outcomes were risk factors for CLABSI, device (central line) utilisation ratio, CLABSI related mortality and micro-organism profile.ResultsCLABSI rates decreased from 17.1/1000 device days to 5.0/1000 device days (relative risk (RR)=0.36, CI=0.17–0.74). Device (central line) utilisation ratio declined from 0.30 to 0.25. Out of 613 patients enrolled in our study, 139 (22.7%) died. Mortality was higher in CLABSI group (n=20, 44%) as compared with non CLABSI group (n=119, 21.1%) (p<0.001). Gestational age of <27 weeks was an independent risk factor for CLABSI (RR=4.45, CI=1.10–18.25, p=0.03). A total of 158 pathogens were isolated among which 68 were associated with CLABSI. Gram-negative bacteria 31 (47.7%) were the most common cause of CLABSI. Ninety-seven (61%) micro-organisms were multi-drug resistant.ConclusionsCPP was effective in decreasing NICU CLABSI rates and can be used as a model to decrease NICU CLABSI rates in low or middle-income countries.

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The three major milk production systems are rural subsistence, rural market oriented, and pari urban plus commercial. The most important middlemen in the marketing system are the rural milk traders [...]

A recent report from the ATLAS trial comparing different maintenance strategies following haematopoeitic stem cell transplantation for multiple myeloma provides an opportunity to explore various themes of critical appraisal, including end points, the equipoise of trial design, and the part censoring can play in the validity of results.

A poem "When One of My Students Brings Up Palestine" by Faisal Mohyuddin, is presented. First Line: I do not smile at him, happy though I am; Last Line: will play along too.

In this paper, we present analytic solutions of two-dimensional Navier-Stokes equations governing the unsteady incompressible flow The solutions have been obtained using hodograph-Legendre transform method. The obtained solutions are also compared with the existing results. Keywords and Phrases: Unsteady flow, Hodograph method, Hodograph-Legendre transform., Muhammad R. Mohyuddin † Department of Science in Enginnring, Kulliyyah of Engineering, International Islamiz University Malaysia, Jalan Gombak, 53100 Kuala Lumpur A. M. Siddiqui ‡ Pennsylvania State University, York Campus, [...]