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Heart Failure (HF) admissions among young patients in the United States are on the rise. With that said, there is limited data on readmission outcomes of such patients. The National Readmission Database (NRD) was examined to identify all admissions among adults aged 18-45 year-old with a primary diagnosis of HF who had at least one unplanned readmission within 30-days between 2010 - 2019. Patients were excluded if <18 years old, transferred to another acute care hospital, died during hospitalization or had missing data for age, sex, or mortality, or had an index hospitalization on December 1 or beyond. Multivariable Poisson regression analysis was performed for yearly trends with year as the independent variable and readmission as the dependent variable. The study was divided into two phases based on hospital readmissions reduction program (HRRP), the pre-HRRP period was 2010-2012 and post-HRRP period was 2013-2019. Outcomes were adjusted for age, sex, hospital characteristics (volume, bedsize), income, insurance and Charlson comorbidity index. All analyses were performed using STATA 16 software. We included 440,901 hospitalizations (mean age: 38.06 ± 0.02 years, males: 62.5%) for 30-day readmission analysis. Linear trend of higher all-cause readmission rate was noted across the study period (absolute difference of 0.5%, trend-p<0.001). Similarly, linear trend of higher HF-specific readmission rate was noted across the study period (absolute difference of 0.9%, trend-p<0.001), Figure 1A. Mean all-cause readmission rate was higher in post-HRRP era (20.7% vs. 19.6%, p<0.001). Mean heart failure specific readmission rate was also higher in post-HRRP era (9.9% vs. 9.5%, p=0.037), Figure 1B. 30-day readmissions among young patients with Heart Failure are on the rise. HRRP had deleterious effect on readmission outcomes of young patients with Heart Failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To describe the multicenter variations in perfusionist practices, which persists nationally, and to highlight the non-evidence based practice variations. Study Design: Multicenter National web-based survey. Place and Duration of Study: Multicenter National adult cardiac surgical units. The study was conducted from July 2018 till January 2019. Patients and Method: The web-based questionnaire of the survey was sent to 24 adult cardiac anesthesiologists working in different cardiac centers nationally. The response rate was 62.5% (15/24). Sixty percent of the respondents were practicing in heart centers. The survey demonstrated that 66.6% (10/15) of the respondents used goal directed perfusion during CPB, with more than 80% (13/15) of the perfusionists used aseptic measures during handling CPB machine, consulted with the cardiac anesthesiologist in critical decision making and treatment of complications, and used protocol for trouble shooting during CPB. Sixty percent (9/15) perfusionists did not monitor continuous arterial blood gases and acid base balance. About 73% (11/15) monitor serum Lactate level while most of perfusionists did not monitor the continuous venous and cerebral oxygen saturation. The aim of this first ever conducted CPB Perfusion practices national study was to describe the multicenter variations in perfusion practices and to highlight the non-evidence based practice variations in context of the study results. We focused on multiple aspects regarding stan-dard operating procedures (SOPs) during CPB,monitoring or management standards during CPB, anti-coagulation management, cardioplegia solution details, transfusion triggers, pharmaco-logical interventions during CPB and CPB circuitry or pump details. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-extubation is reported as one of the most common events in the adult intensive care units worldwide. The aim of this study is to find out the incidence and determinants of self-extubation in a tertiary care surgical intensive care unit. It was retrospective analysis data acquired from the hospital databases, who were self-extubated in surgical intensive care unit during six calendar years from January 1st, 2010, through December 31st, 2016. Data collection form was used to collect personal details, drugs used for sedation, sedation agitation score, pain score, nurse ratio and use of restrained at a time of extubation have been noted. Total of 618 patients were admitted to the SICU who required mechanical ventilation during the six calendar years. An overall 2.1% incidence of self-extubation was calculated with a documented thirteen self-extubation episodes. The mean age of patients was 38.46 ± 16.97 years with majority of them being males. Most of the patients at the time of self-extubation were not restrained 9(69.2%). Nurse to patient ratio was also found to be 1:1. Majority of patients 7(53.8%) were not on any sedative drug infusion and the mean sedation agitation score at that time was 4.46± 2.02 while mean pain score was 5.31 ± 2.72. Reintubation was performed in most patients 10 (76.9%) who had self-extubation. The incidence of self-extubation in ICU was 2.1%. This relatively low incidence can be elucidated by the optimal nurse-to-patient ratio in ourhospital. As nursing care is the major contributing factor that can increase the probability of self-extubation during the absence of bedside nurse. It was found that an ICU nurse with an experience of more than 4 yearscan decrease the incidence of self-extubation by 2.6%. Among numerous risk factors, agitation is responsible for 50%-74% of the unplanned extubation, while in comparison to non-agitated patients, the self-extubation rate increases by 26%. Other factors that increase the risk of self-extubation include male sex, older age, postsurgical and sedation given as per need rather than as a continuous infusion. Self-extubation can compromise airway due to the sudden removal of inflated cuff endotracheal tube which could cause difficult reintubation,hypotension, arrhythmias, bronchospasm, aspiration, and laryngeal bleeding or edema. Self-extubation can compromise airway due to the sudden removal of inflated cuff endotracheal tube which could cause difficult reintubation,hypotension, arrhythmias, bronchospasm, aspiration, and laryngeal bleeding or edema Self-extubation can compromise airway due to the sudden removal of inflated cuff endotracheal tube which could cause difficult reintubation,hypotension, arrhythmias, bronchospasm, aspiration, and laryngeal bleeding or edema [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research paper, we have reported the thermal, structural, magnetic and optical properties of unsubstituted and aluminum substituted zinc ferrite nanoparticles. These substituted and unsubstituted ferrite nanoparticles were prepared by cost effective co-precipitation method. The co-precipitated unannealed nanoparticles of the typical sample were subjected to thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) to probe the annealing temperature. The X-rays diffraction (XRD) technique was used for the determination of structural parameters. XRD patterns of all compositions of Al x ZnFe 2-x O 4 nanoparticles confirmed the FCC structure of these spinel ferrite nanoparticles. Besides the main crystal structure determination, many other lattice parameters and their variations with respect to increased Al3+ contents in ZnFe 2 O 4 were also calculated from XRD data and have been discussed in detail in this article. The morphology of the synthesized materials has been studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and average particles size found < 100 nm. The variation in electrical and magnetic parameters with increased Al3+ contents was studied in detail. The analysis of magnetic properties concluded that the prepared nanoparticles have good magnetic properties. At the end the optical studies of the nanoparticles proved that these spinel ferrites also have photocatalytic applications. The photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue in the presence of these samples has been studied and discussed. The ferrites particles could be separated from contaminated water simply by magnetic bars. Therefore these particles can be used and recycled easily for photocatalytic applications. The aim of work was to study the structural, electrical, magnetic and catalytic behavior of the material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, optimized micro-emulsion route was utilised to synthesize the Cr-substituted MnFe 2 O 4 nanoparticles. Transition metal Cr3+ cations were used to replace the Fe3+ ions because the Cr3+ ions have compatible ionic radii and are non-magnetic in nature. Further, they have the same electronic configuration, which is the primary requirement for the substitution philosophy. Cr3+ (x) contents were in the range 0 ≤ x ≥ 0.16. All derivative of manganese ferrite nanoparticles were annealed at 400 °C. The annealing at the required temperature was carried out for 4 hours under vacuum. Structural information was collected via X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis and Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR) spectroscopy. Both XRD and FTIR confirmed FCC structure of all compositions of Cr x MnFe 2- x O 4 nanoparticles. Various other physical parameters like lattice constant, cell volume, X-ray density, crystallite size were determined from obtained XRD data. Quantitative measurement of both divalent (Mn2+) and trivalent (Fe3+ and Cr3+) transition metal cations was calculated. FTIR spectral investigation was done to confirm the two typical bands corresponding to metal-oxygen vibrations present at A-sites and B-sites. After structural and spectral investigations, the electrical and dielectric properties were studied in detail for utilization of these ferrites for practical applications. Both electrical and dielectric properties were found in agreement with each other. The dielectric properties were carried out in frequency range 1 × 106 Hz to 3 × 109 Hz. In general, the both electrical and dielectric parameters were largely affected by Cr-substitution in MnFe 2 O 4 nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we substituted the magnetic Fe3+ ions with highly paramagnetic rare earth Dy3+ cations in MnFe 2 O 4 spinel ferrite nanoparticles to investigate the physical, structural, spectral and electrical properties in detail. Dysprosium substituted inverse spinel ferrite nanoparticles (Dy x MnFe 2- x O 4) (0 ≤ x ≥ 0.16) were prepared via facile optimized wet chemical approach i.e. micro-emulsion route. Substituted and unsubstituted manganese ferrite nanoparticles were annealed at 400 °C for 4 h under vacuum. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis proved the spinel structure of all compositions of Dy x MnFe 2- x O 4 nanoparticles. Various physical parameters were calculated from XRD data. Quantitative measurements of cations distribution were carried out to estimate the distribution of divalent metal cations (Mn2+) and trivalent metal cations (Fe3+ and Dy3+) between A-sites (tetrahedral) and B-sites (octahedral). Oxygen parameter ' u ' was calculated to study the displacement of oxygen ions in tetrahedral sites along (111) direction. Fourier transform infrared spectra (FTIR) were recorded to study the two significant absorption bands corresponding to A-site and B-site. Scanning electron microscopic (SEM) analysis was carried out to study the morphology of Dy x MnFe 2- x O 4 nanoparticles. After structural and morphological investigations, all compositions of Dy x MnFe 2- x O 4 nanoparticles were subjected to dielectric parameters measurements. The dielectric parameters like dielectric constant (real and imaginary part) and tangent loss were investigated as a function of frequency from 1 MHz to 3 GHz at room temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Facile and low cost micro-emulsion method for the synthesis of single phase manganese ferrite (MnFe 2 O 4) nanoparticles was explored. In an attempt to synthesize monodisperse and single phase manganese ferrite (MnFe 2 O 4) nanoparticles, micro-emulsion method using different oil phases such as dodecanol, toluene and low cost paraffin was adapted. Simple co-precipitation method was also followed for comparison purpose. In this facile approach, the strategy to control the particle size at nano-level has been explained in detail. Formation mechanism of single phase manganese ferrite and appearance of different phases (such as goethite, manganite, hematite, hausmanite, maghemite, magnetite, etc) by these synthesis methods have been investigated and discussed. The samples were annealed at various temperatures to probe the thermal stability. Effect of annealing under air and under vacuum was studied. Thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) was used to study the phase transitions along with the investigation of appropriate annealing temperature for spinel ferrite formation. X-ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis was used to study the crystal structure and phase identification. Microstructural properties were studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to study the bond stretching (Metal-Oxygen) and cubic spinel structure of MnFe 2 O 4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A mutual prodrug (1) of ibuprofen and sulphanilamide has been synthesized with dual activity and improved toxicity profile. The synthesized compound has been characterized by elemental analysis, FT-IR, 1HNMR, 13CNMR and ESI-MS. The molecular geometry of the compound (1) was optimized using density functional theory (DFT/B3LYP) method with the 6-311G(d,p) basis sets in ground state. Geometric parameters (bond lengths, bond angles, torsion angles), vibrational assignments, chemical shifts and thermodynamics of the compound (1) has been calculated theoretically and compared with the experimental data. Comparative AutoDock study of compound (1) with cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2) were performed involving docking for possible selectivity of our prodrug within the two Cox enzymes. The highest binding affinities of −8.7 Kcal/mol and −8.1 Kcal/mol has been obtained for COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes respectively. Compound (1) exhibited enhanced anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer and free radical scavenging activities as compared with the parent drugs. Based on various in vitro and in vivo tests it is suggested that the Compound (1) is more active than the parent drugs. Moreover, LD 50 of compound (1) is higher than parent drug i.e. ibuprofen and sulphanilamide suggesting that the synthesized compound is much safer than its parent analogous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract New yttrium substituted manganese ferrite (MnY x Fe 2- x O 4) nanoparticles (NPs) were prepared by low cost reverse micelle micro-emulsion method by utilizing cheap raw materials like Paraffin, Triton X-100, and 1-butanol and corresponding metal salts. The Y3+content (x) range was kept 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.16. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) of un-annealed precipitates was carried out to probe the phase formation temperature. The annealing of precipitates of all compositions of MnY x Fe 2- x O 4 nanoparticles was carried at 400 °C for 4 h (h). The annealing was carried out under vacuum to control the oxidation of manganese. The effect of Y3+ cations on structural, spectral and dielectric properties was investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FTIR) spectroscopy and impedance analyzer measurements at room temperature. XRD patterns confirmed the formation of MnFe 2 O 4 and its derivatives with yttrium. Site radii and bond lengths were calculated from XRD data. FTIR spectra confirmed the tetrahedral (A) and octahedral (B) sites in all compositions of MnY x Fe 2- x O 4 nanoparticles, which is characteristic of spinel ferrites having FCC (face centered cubic) structure. Scanning electron microscopic (SEM) analysis confirmed the spherical morphology of ferrite particles. Dielectric parameters analysis in the frequency range from 1 × 106 Hz to 3 × 109 Hz suggested that these ferrite particles may find their potential applications in high frequency devices fabrication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background To assess the impact of scaling and root planing (SRP) with and without adjunct photodynamic therapy (PDT) in the treatment of periodontal disease (PD) in hyperglycemic patients. Methods Databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE; and CENTRAL) were searched up to December 2017. The addressed PICO question was: “What is the effectiveness of adjunctive PDT to non-surgical periodontal treatment by means of clinical periodontal and glycemic parameters in hyperglycemic patients?” Results Four clinical trials and 1 experimental study were included. Energy fluence, power output, power density and duration of irradiation were 2.79 J per square centimeters (J cm −2 ), 150 milliwatts (mW), 428 milliwatts per square centimeters (mW/cm 2 ) and 133 s (s) respectively. All studies reporting clinical periodontal and metabolic parameters, showed that aPDT was effective in the treatment of periodontal inflammation in hyperglycemic patients at follow-up. When compared with SRP alone, none of the studies showed additional benefits of PDT as compared to SRP alone at follow up. Three studies showed no influence of SRP with or without aPDT on HbA1c levels. One study showed a significant reduction of HbA1c levels in adjunctive aPDT as compared to SRP alone at follow-up. Conclusion It remains debatable whether adjunctive PDT as compared to SRP is effective in the treatment of periodontal inflammation and reduction of HbA1c levels in hyperglycemic patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) often complain of neuropathic pain. According to the Gate Control Theory of Pain, spinal networks of GABAergic inhibitory interneurons are important in modulating nociceptive inputs from the periphery. Na+–K+–2Cl− co-transporter 1 (NKCC1) and K+–Cl− co-transporter 2 (KCC2) generally dictate the tone of GABA/glycine inhibition by regulating intracellular chloride concentrations. In this study, we investigated the role of NKCC1 and KCC2 in neuropathic pain observed in the animal model, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a commonly used model to study the pathophysiology of MS. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reactions (qRT-PCR) analysis revealed no change in NKCC1 mRNA transcripts in dorsal root ganglia throughout EAE disease course. However, NKCC1 and KCC2 mRNA levels in the dorsal spinal cord were significantly reduced at disease onset and peak only to recover by the chronic time point. Similarly, Western blot data revealed a significant downregulation of NKCC1 and KCC2 in the dorsal spinal cord at disease onset but an upregulation of NKCC1 protein in the dorsal root ganglia at this time point. Treatment with bumetanide, an NKCC inhibitor, had no effect on mechanical hypersensitivity seen in mice with EAE even though it reversed the changes in the levels of NKCC1 and KCC2. We noted that bumetanide treatment, while effective at reversing the changes in monomeric KCC2 levels was ineffective at reversing the changes in oligomeric KCC2 which remained repressed. These results indicate that mechanical hypersensitivity in EAE is not mediated by altered levels of NKCC1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The overarching objective of this study was to develop an alternative strategy for first and greater services that will improve fertility in lactating dairy cows for dairy operations limited by labor or other logistical constraints that make it difficult to use Presynch-11, G6G, or Double-Ovsynch. Our overall hypothesis was that simplification of a Presynch program through the combination of PGF 2α and GnRH on the same day (PG + G), 7 days before the first GnRH of Ovsynch, would allow for similar ovulation and luteolysis rate and pregnancies per AI (P/AI) compared with G6G. Lactating dairy cows 58 to 64 days in milk (first service; n = 114), and cows diagnosed not pregnant 39 days after previous AI (second + service; n = 122) were blocked by parity and service and randomly assigned to control or PG + G. Control cows received G6G (n = 116) that consisted of PGF 2α , 2-day GnRH, 6-day GnRH, 7-day PGF 2α , 56-hour GnRH, and 16-hour AI. Treated cows (PG + G; n = 121) received PGF 2α and GnRH, 7-day GnRH, 7-day PGF 2α , 56-hour GnRH, and 16-hour AI. All cows received a second PGF 2α 24 hours after the PGF 2α of Ovsynch. First service cows received AI between 76 and 82 days in milk and second + service received AI 57 days after previous AI. Pregnancies/AI (n = 230) were similar in controls compared with treated cows on Day 35 (57 vs. 50%; P = 0.27) and Day 49 (54 vs. 47%; P = 0.33), respectively. Percent of cows ovulating after GnRH of the presynchronization was greater (P = 0.002) for controls vs. treated (80 vs. 58%); however, ovulation after first GnRH of Ovsynch was similar (67 vs. 68%; P = 0.86). Serum concentrations of progesterone were similar (P = 0.78) at the time of first GnRH of Ovsynch for control and treated cows (2.22 vs. 2.14 ng/mL). However, serum progesterone at the time of PGF 2α of Ovsynch was greater (P = 0.002) for control cows compared with treated cows (5.75 vs. 4.64 ng/mL). In summary, administering both PGF 2α and GnRH on the same day, 7 days before the start of Ovsynch, appears to be a simple alternative that results in acceptable P/AI but potentially less progesterone during the growth of the ovulatory follicle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early thoracic empyema is usually treated through video-assisted thoracoscopic (VATS) decortication. Patient selection is important for decortication if an effective surgical outcome is required. Lung isolation techniques are required to provide anesthesia for these patients to facilitate the surgeon while operating on the affected lung. The ultimate target is to protect the non-diseased contra-lateral lung from contamination. We are presenting a unique case of 20-year-old female, resident of Karachi, who was brought to the emergency room (ER) with signs of sepsis, hypotension, and multi-organ failure. She was brought to the operating room to undergo video-assisted thoracoscopy (VATS) for lung abscess decortication when her medical therapy had failed. On table decision of right upper lobe resection was made and ventilation strategy had to be modified accordingly. The main anaesthetic aim was to protect the healthy parts of the lung from the abscess. Regular suctioning of secretions during surgery via the double lumen tube (DLT) lumen on the diseased side is recommended. While performing VATS, the lung abscess got ruptured and immediate measures to isolate the lung was taken to assist with surgical resection of the affected lobe. Lobectomy can only be done once the lung was completely isolated and maintaining perfusion and ventilation of the relatively healthy lung help in managing hypoxia. Peri-operative management of ruptured lung abscesses required thorough pre-op evaluation, intraoperative lung isolation and ventilation, and postoperative analgesia with combined team effort both surgical and anaesthetic, are vital fundamentals to consider in guaranteeing the best outcome. • Peri operative management of ruptured humongous lung abscess • Combined surgical and anaesthetic team efforts result in a successful outcome • More emphasize is needed on high-risk lung abscesses • Focused on both peri operative anaesthetic and surgical care [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Prediction problems of statistical wind speed forecasting models are highlighted. • Improved models are considered while addressing the shortcomings of conventional methods. • Global Performance Indicator (GPI) is used to rank sixteen investigated wind speed forecasting models for three rolling windows and four case studies. • Improved models show between 4% and 28% higher accuracy than their counter traditional models. Wind speed forecasting models have seen significant development and growth in recent years. In particular, hybrid models have been emerging since the last decade. Hybrid models combine two or more techniques from several categories, with each model utilizing its distinct strengths. Mainly, data-driven models that include statistical and machine learning models are deployed in hybrid models for shorter forecasting time horizons (<6hrs). Literature studies show that machine learning models have gained enormous potential owing to their accuracy and robustness. On the other hand, only a handful of studies are available on the performance enhancement of statistical models, even though hybrid models are incomplete without statistical models. To address the knowledge gap, this paper addressed the problems of traditional statistical models while enhancing prediction accuracy. Initially, the multi-step ahead wind speed forecasting performance of eight commonly used statistical approaches is evaluated using four different case studies and three rolling windows. The reasons for erroneous wind speed forecasts are discussed in detail. Next, four enhanced models were considered while addressing the shortcomings of conventional methods. In addition, four machine learning models are also analyzed for comparison. Moreover, the outcomes of the comparisons are discussed, explaining the higher prediction accuracy of improved models. A Global Performance Indicator (GPI) is used to rank the investigated wind speed forecasting models. Results showed that exponential smoothing models have a greater GPI in most cases, whereas Markov Chain models are among the poorest. The grey models are more suitable for smaller samples of data. In machine learning models, Support Vector Machine (SVM) has proven to be the best choice. Overall, the improved models show between 4% and 28% higher accuracy than their counter traditional models. Lastly, the future directions are highlighted that need subsequent research to further improve forecasting performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycrystalline Er x Ni 0.8 Zn 0·2 Fe 2-x O 4 nanoparticles were synthesized using wet chemical route. Powder x-ray diffraction (XRD) data was utilized to observe the structural parameters. The cubic crystalline structure with the second phase was obtained from XRD patterns. Two significant absorption bands (between 700 and 400 cm−1) at the tetrahedral and octahedral sites were studied from Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) that further confirmed the spinel structure of prepared ferrites. These are the main bands of spinel ferrites. After the structural explanation, the dielectric, electrical and magnetic parameters were studied in detail at room temperature. All of these parameters were affected by Er3+ substitution. The obtained results suggested the possible utilization of these soft ferrites in advanced technological applications such as the devices working at high frequencies, magnetic data recording, switching applications, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a methodology for performing sensitivity analysis on the capital and energy production costs of off-grid Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) systems. The different influencing parameters that are considered in this study are the daily electric load on the system, available sunshine hours, per unit costs of components, maintenance and replacement costs, several design and rating factors, interest rates, and carbon credits. The probabilistic-based Latin hypercube sampling (LHS) technique and log-log regression were used to develop the correlations for the capital cost and energy production cost of the system. The results were validated by comparing them with case studies available in the published literature. Then, a standardized version of the dataset was used to derive the elasticity constants associated with each parameter, which quantified the change in costs when the parameter value was increased by a unit percentage. The effects on the costs of increasing the parameters by 10% were quantified, ranked and compared. For the capital cost, the three most sensitive parameters were the daily electric load on system, the fudge factor and the available sunshine hours. In contrast, for the energy production cost, the three most sensitive parameters were the annual maintenance cost factor, the fudge factor and the interest rate. The correlation trends between these parameters and the costs were also plotted. Precautions and potential stakeholder actions for reducing the costs of off-grid BIPV systems are suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transition metal spinel type mixed oxides (FeCo 2 O 4 , MnCo 2 O 4 and ZnCo 2 O 4) nano-catalysts have been synthesized via co-precipitation route. The samples were characterized using XRD and FE-SEM techniques to determine structure and morphologies respectively. Furthermore, FTIR and BET analysis were carried out in order to confirm the structure and calculate surface areas of the samples. The photocatalytic potency of synthesized nano-catalysts have been examined for aqueous solution of methylene blue under visible light. It is found that photocatalytic activity of simple transition metal oxides was enhanced by making their binary/ternary metal oxides. FeCo 2 O 4 exhibited highest photocatalytic efficiency among the prepared spinel structures while MnCo 2 O 4 possess lowest efficiency. The photocatalytic behavior of mixed transition metal oxides can be accredited to its spinel structure, small particle size and large surface area. XRD and BET results revealed the small crystallite and particle size of spinel mixed oxides. The small crystallite size of spinel mixed oxides nano-structures contributes to increased photocatalytic activity by increasing the surface area of photocatalyst, decreasing the chance of reunion of charge carriers. It is observed that these binary oxide nano-structures have potential applications in heterogeneous photo decay of environmental contaminants and can act as propitious materials for resolving environmental issues and establishing green environment. • Spine oxide nano-catalysts were prepared via facile route. • Crystallite size was found < 10 nm. • All prepared nano-catalysts exhibited good photocatalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we have reported an effective, rapid as well as economical Er3+ substituted Ni 0.4 Co 0.6 Fe 2 O 4 ferrite nanoparticles synthesized via surfactant-assisted co-precipitation route. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), dielectric properties, current-voltage (I–V) measurements, and vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM). XRD and FTIR confirmed the face-centered (FCC) spinel structure of all compositions of the synthesized spinel ferrite nanoparticles. The deviations in the lattice constant granted with the variation in size of the guest (Er3+) and host (Fe3+) cations. These ferrites were also subjected for electrical, magnetic and dielectric investigations. I–V measurements showed that resistivity values decreased from 6.20 × 107 Ω cm to 0.03 × 107 Ω cm with the increased Er3+ contents. Saturation magnetization increased from 35.99 to 39.95 emu/g. This high value of saturation magnetization suggested the possible utilization of such ferrites for practical applications such as microwave and recording devices fabrication. Interestingly, the magnetic and dielectric properties of nickel-cobalt ferrite nanoparticles showed ample improvement upon Er3+ substitution. The results clearly indicate the potential of Er+3 substituted spinel ferrite particles in various advanced technological devices fabrication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A multipurpose, environment-friendly, and effective catalyst for control of environmental contaminants is an enduring interest in recent years. In the present study, lanthanum substituted spinel ferrite (La x MnFe 2-x O 4) nanoparticles were synthesized using an eco-friendly, low cost-effective reverse-micelle synthesis strategy. Thermal analysis was done to annualize the annealing temperature of prepared precipitates. X-ray diffraction (XRD) study revealed the well-defined cubic spinel structure of La x MnFe 2-x O 4 with the presence of a very minute secondary phase by the introduction of La3+ ion. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) study confirmed the M − O metal-oxygen bond stretching at tetrahedral and octahedral sites. Surface morphology analyzed by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) revealed the narrow size distribution having nanoparticles size of nearly 60 nm. From the bandgap study, an enhanced redshift of 2.40 eV directed its semiconductor photocatalysis behavior. The degradation efficiency of pristine MnFe 2 O 4 and La3+ ion substituted MnFe 2 O 4 material was investigated using a contaminant crystal violet dye. Higher degradation efficiency, kinetic investigation smart degradation mechanism, and simple recovery suggested that the newly designed La3+ ion substituted MnFe 2 O 4 photocatalytic material is best for environmental remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – To reduce effective dose to patients by reducing dose length product (DLP) – To reduce intravenous contrast volume used for computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) studies – To improve image quality via increased pulmonary arterial enhancement (HU) Methods and materials Twenty-three patients with justified CTPA requests were randomly assigned to study group according to availability of supervising radiologist(s). Twenty-three further consecutive patients who underwent standard protocol CTPA examination were retrospectively assigned to control group during study period. Tube voltage was modified as per body mass index (BMI). Z-axis scan range was limited from lower margin of sternoclavicular joint to upper margin of lowest diaphragm. High flow fixed volume dual pump technique was used with breath hold. Images were acquired using 64 slice Phillips Brilliance CT scanner. Pulmonary arterial opacification was measured at centre of pulmonary trunk and first segmental lower lobar branch. Results All scans were of adequate diagnostic quality. The study group saw reductions in mean DLP of 21% (296.1 milliGray-centimetre [mGy-cm] vs 374.4 mGy-cm), intravenous contrast volume administered of 23% (60 millilitres [mls] vs 78mls). Mean pulmonary arterial opacification was improved by 49% (470 HU vs 316 HU) and mean segmental arterial opacification by 55% (471 HU vs 304 HU) over control group. Conclusion Reduction in CTPA radiation dose and intravenous contrast volume can be achieved by using established cardiac CT techniques while improving image quality at the same time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Young onset Parkinson''s disease patients, typically aged 21 to between 40 and 55, have symptomatology similar to regular onset patients. Despite this, we suspect that physicians take longer to diagnose young onset patients since Parkinson''s disease is ruled out due to the younger age. The history prior to diagnosis of 14 young onset patients (within 21 to 45years of age) was compared with an equivalent number of regular onset patients matched by gender, tremor presence, and Hoehn and Yahr stage. Indeed, a longer period of time was taken to diagnose younger patients with an average of additional 15months (p<0.001). This trend of older patients being diagnosed sooner was present in the regular onset group analyzed in isolation, but not so for the younger group. The lack of age-dependent variation in time required for diagnosis suggests that Parkinson''s disease is not considered at all in the diagnosis for an extended period, accounting for the large difference in prevalence of young onset group to the regular onset group. We also observed a significantly higher number of neurologist visits (p=0.002) and clinical investigations (p<0.001) prior to diagnosis of young-onset patients. Due to the impact of delayed diagnoses on young onset patients and clinical resources, we propose that Parkinson''s disease be more actively considered in differential diagnoses of younger patients presenting associated symptoms. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Dy x MnFe 2- x O 4 nanoparticles decorated over mesoporous silica were synthesized. • High BET surface area of catalyst responsible for excellent adsorption. • The prepared catalyst also exhibited good photocatalytic activity. An efficient, environment-friendly and economical catalyst to control contaminants of environment is an enduring interest in recent years. In this study, a new composite, Dy x MnFe 2- x O 4 nanoparticles decorated over mesoporous silica was synthesized and utilized for removal of organic pollutant. Highly crystalline nature of Dy x MnFe 2- x O 4 nanoparticles and amorphous nature of material was confirmed by XRD (X-ray diffraction) technique. Infrared spectra of fabricated material before and after adsorption of dye molecules evidenced the successful adsorption of dye molecules by fabricated adsorbent. From field emission scanning electron microscopic (FESEM) images of Dy3+ substituted MnFe 2 O 4 composite with mesoporous silica, it was clearly observed that ferrite particles of size 20−30 nm were decorated on the surface of mesoporous silica particles and distributed well over spherical silica balls homogeneously. Its magnificent mesoporous nature was revealed from BET (nitrogen adsorption-desorption measurements) analysis. Surface area, pore volume and average pore size was found 387.95 m2/g, 0.390 cm3/g and 4.02 nm respectively. Tri-modal pore size distribution showed its effective utilization in adsorption. The abundant (Si OH) hydroxyl groups of mesoporous silica, the broad diffraction hump of silica depicted its superior loading capacity of target molecular specie inside its porous network. From band gap analysis, a red shift of 2.43 eV exhibited semiconductor photocatalysis of Dy x MnFe 2- x O 4 nanoparticles. Degradation efficiency of bare MnFe 2 O 4 , Dy x MnFe 2- x O 4 and mesoporous silica-based composite was tested using crystal violet dye. Its explored adsorption-photocatalysis synergy, degradation mechanism, kinetic investigation, easily recovery and remarkable recycling ability suggested that the new fabricated composite is best for environmental remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The narrow optical band gap, higher electrical conductivity, and wider-absorption range are three key features that a good photocatalyst must possess. Herein, we have fabricated Cu-doped MnO 2 (Mn 1-x Cu x O 2) nanostructure by facile wet chemical approach and formed its nanocomposite with r-GO (Mn 1-x Cu x O 2 /r-GO) via ultra-sonication approach. The successful replacement of host metal ions (Mn4+) with the dopant metal ions (Cu2+) was supported with the PXRD, FT-IR, and EDX characterizations. The effect of Cu-doping on the band gap and r-GO matrix on the conductivity of the fabricated nanocomposite was also evaluated via Tauc plots and I–V tests, respectively. The photocatalytic efficiency of the fabricated photocatalysts was tested and compared against the methylene blue (MB) under visible light irradiation. The photocatalytic experiments revealed that Mn 1-x Cu x O 2 /r-GO photocatalyst exhibited superior photocatalytic aptitude than that of pristine MnO 2 and Mn 1-x Cu x O 2 photocatalysts. More precisely, the Mn 1-x Cu x O 2 photocatalysts degraded 86.89% MB dye at the rate of 0.021 min−1 after a 90-min exposure to the visible light. Observed superior catalytic activity of the nanocomposite can be attributed to the synergistic effects between the Cu doped MnO 2 and r-GO nanosheets that resulted in its narrow band-gap (2.19 eV) and excellent conductivity (2.217 × 10−2 Scm−1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Experiments with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and graphite as targets in a source of negative ions with cesium sputtering show that MWCNTs with nanometer radii and micrometer length can be compared with micrometer-size graphite grains. The comparative study helps to better understand the irradiation effects, including the formation, sputtering of carbon clusters and the resulting structural changes. The simultaneous adsorption of Cs0 on the surface and bombardment by energetic Cs+ ions is shown to play a role in cluster formation and sputtering of carbon atoms and clusters (C x ; x ⩾1) and the cesium-substituted carbon clusters (CsC x ) as anions. Qualitative and quantitative outputs of sputtered species are related to their respective structures. Structural changes are shown to occur in MWCNTs and seen in scanning electron micrographs. The individual identity of the heavily bombarded MWCNTs may have given way to the merged structures while effects on the structure of heavily irradiated graphite grains size needs to be further investigated. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]