Construction of BiOCl/bismuth-based halide perovskite heterojunctions derived from the metal-organic framework CAU-17 for effective photocatalytic degradation

The designed synthesis of an S-scheme heterojunction has possessed a great potential for improving photocatalytic wastewater treatment by demonstrating increased the photoredox capacity and improved the charge separation efficiency. Here, we introduce the fabrication of a heterojunction-based photocatalyst comprising bismuth oxychloride (BiOCl) and bismuth-based halide perovskite (BHP) nanosheets, derived from metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). Our composite photocatalyst is synthesized through a one-pot solvothermal strategy, where a halogenation process is applied to a bismuth-based metal-organic framework (CAU-17) as the precursor for bismuth sourcing. As a result, the rod-like structure of CAU-17 transforms into well-defined plate and nanosheet architectures after 4 and 8 h of solvothermal treatment, respectively. The modulation of the solvothermal reaction time facilitates the establishment of an S-scheme heterojunction, resulting in an increase in the photocatalytic degradation efficiency of rhodamine B (RhB) and sulfamethoxazole (SMX). The optimized BiOCl/BHP composite exhibits superior RhB and SMX degradation rates, achieving 99.8% degradation of RhB in 60 min and 75.1% degradation of SMX in 300 min. Also, the optimized BiOCl/BHP composite (CAU-17-st-8h sample) exhibited the highest rate constant (k = 3.48 × 10-3 min-1), nearly 6 times higher than that of the bare BHP in the photocatalytic degradation process of SMX. The enhanced photocatalytic efficiency can be endorsed to various factors: (i) the in-situ formation of two-components BiOCl/BHP photocatalyst, derived from CAU-17, effectively suppresses the aggregation of pristine BHP and BiOCl particles; (ii) the S-scheme heterostructure establishes a closely-knit interfacial connection, thereby facilitating efficient pathways for charge separation/transfer; and (iii) the BiOCl/BHP heterostructure enhances its capacity to absorb visible light. Our investigation establishes an effective strategy for constructing heterostructured photocatalysts, offering significant potential for application in photocatalytic wastewater treatment.

[Prospective evaluation of radiation-induced thyroid disorders after breast and supraclavicular irradiation]

PURPOSE

The thyroid is an endocrine gland playing a major role in metabolism and development by the secretion of T4 and T3 thyroid hormones. Due to its anatomical position, it is often included in the target volume for the irradiation of certain tumours and thus receives significant doses (10 to 80Gy). The treatment of breast cancer requires in most cases a breast irradiation associated or not with a lymph node irradiation. The aim of our study was to investigate prospectively the frequency of thyroid disorders in patients with breast cancer treated by radiation, with or without irradiation of the supra- and subclavicular lymph nodes.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This prospective multicentre study (institut Godinot, institut de cancérologie Strasbourg Europe and institut de cancérologie de Lorraine) concerned adult patients with non-metastatic breast carcinoma treated by adjuvant irradiation. They were included in a non-randomized way between February 2013 and June 2015 and divided into two groups according to treatment: (i) breast radiotherapy associated with irradiation of the supra- and subclavicular lymph nodes (group 1), or (ii) breast irradiation alone (group 2). The dose - volume histogram of the thyroid was systematically edited by the physics department. Each patient had a consultation with an endocrinologist at the beginning of the treatment and was monitored by blood analyses including TSH, T4L, antithyroglobulin and antiperoxidase antibodies every 6 months until the 60th month after the end of radiotherapy. Data were described by numbers and percentages for qualitative variables; by means, medians, standard deviation and ranges for quantitative variables. Statistical associations were tested by Chi2, Fisher's, Student's, or analysis of variance tests depending on the conditions of application. Survival analyses were performed by log rank tests and Cox models.

RESULTS

This study initially included 500 patients, 245 in group 1 and 252 in group 2 (three patients were later excluded for false inclusion). Thyroid abnormalities occurred in 76 patients, representing an incidence of 15.3%. The mean time of the first occurrence of thyroid disorders was 24.3 months. It was more frequent in group 1 with a prevalence of 19.2% against 11.5% in group 2 (P=0.01745). A maximal radiation dose delivered to the thyroid gland greater than 20Gy (odds ratio [OR]: 1.82; P=0.018) or 30Gy (OR: 1.89; P=0.013) was significantly associated with a higher incidence of thyroid disorders, as was a mean dose greater than 30Gy (OR: 5.69; P=0.049). A percentage of thyroid volume receiving 30Gy (V30) greater than 50% (P=0.006) or greater than 62.5% (P=0.021) was significantly associated with an increased incidence of thyroid disorder and more precisely, hypothyroidism (P=0.0007). In multivariate analysis, no factor associated with the occurrence of thyroid disorder was identified. However, in the subgroup analysis concerning group 1 (receiving supraclavicular irradiation), a maximal radiation dose greater than 30Gy appeared to be a risk factor for the occurrence of thyroid disorders (P=0.040).

CONCLUSION

Thyroid disorder, and in particular hypothyroidism, may be a late side effect of locoregional breast radiotherapy. Patients receiving this treatment should have a biological monitoring of thyroid function.

Evaluation of the Statistical Detection of Change Algorithm for Screening Patients with MS with New Lesion Activity on Longitudinal Brain MRI

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Identification of new MS lesions on longitudinal MR imaging by human readers is time-consuming and prone to error. Our objective was to evaluate the improvement in the performance of subject-level detection by readers when assisted by the automated statistical detection of change algorithm.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 200 patients with MS with a mean interscan interval of 13.2 (SD, 2.4) months were included. Statistical detection of change was applied to the baseline and follow-up FLAIR images to detect potential new lesions for confirmation by readers (Reader + statistical detection of change method). This method was compared with readers operating in the clinical workflow (Reader method) for a subject-level detection of new lesions.

RESULTS

Reader + statistical detection of change found 30 subjects (15.0%) with at least 1 new lesion, while Reader detected 16 subjects (8.0%). As a subject-level screening tool, statistical detection of change achieved a perfect sensitivity of 1.00 (95% CI, 0.88-1.00) and a moderate specificity of 0.67 (95% CI, 0.59-0.74). The agreement on a subject level was 0.91 (95% CI, 0.87-0.95) between Reader + statistical detection of change and Reader, and 0.72 (95% CI, 0.66-0.78) between Reader + statistical detection of change and statistical detection of change.

CONCLUSIONS

The statistical detection of change algorithm can serve as a time-saving screening tool to assist human readers in verifying 3D FLAIR images of patients with MS with suspected new lesions. Our promising results warrant further evaluation of statistical detection of change in prospective multireader clinical studies.

Pd nanoparticles decorated BiVO4 pine architectures for photocatalytic degradation of sulfamethoxazole

Sulfamethoxazole (SMX) has been extensively detected in wastewater treatment plant effluents and surface water. Because of its potential risks to ecology and health, treatment for eliminating SMX is urgently required. In this study, we report the application of Pd nanoparticles decorated on BiVO₄ pine architecture for the photocatalytic degradation of SMX. The results showed that the barer BiVO₄ and Pd-BiVO₄ eliminated SMX under visible-light irradiation. After 210 min of irradiation, 98.8% of SMX was substantially eliminated by Pd-BiVO₄, whereas bare BiVO₄ can degraded approximately 36.3% of SMX. Pd-BiVO₄ also exhibited a high mineralization rate (84% of total organic carbon (TOC) removal) compared to bare BiVO₄ (51% of TOC removal). Through three-dimensional excitation-emission matrix fluorescence spectra, SMX with high fluorescence intensity can be degraded to non-fluorescence intermediate products, further confirming the high mineralization of SMX over Pd-BiVO₄ catalyst. Well-dispersed Pd nanoparticles on the {040} facet of BiVO₄ pine architecture can support the recombination of photogenerated charge carriers because of the formation of the Schottky junction at the Pd-BiVO₄ interface. Besides, the active species trapping tests indicated that ^•O₂^- and h⁺ radicals dominate SMX photodegradation over Pd-BiVO₄. The main degradation intermediates of SMX in the reaction solution was also identified through ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry analysis. This investigation can provide insight into designing metallic/semiconductor junctions for antibiotic elimination in water media.

Acute effect of empagliflozin on serum uric acid – a subanalysis of the EMPAG-HF trial (effects of empagliflozin on diuresis and renal function in patients with acute decompensated heart failure)

Background

Elevated levels of uric acid (UA) have been associated with worsening of outcomes in cardiovascular and renal disease and may lead to gout. Patients with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) may develop hyperuricemia under intensified diuretic treatment. In this setting, the effect of empagliflozin on serum uric acid remains unknown.

Aim/Purpose

The aim of this subanalysis in patients with ADHF was to assess how additive treatment with empagliflozin influences the concentration of serum uric acid and potential related outcomes.

Methods

In the single-center, prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled EMPAG-HF trial, patients with ADHF were screened and randomized within 12 hours following hospital admission to receive either empagliflozin 25 mg or placebo in addition to standard medical treatment over five days. Sixtypatients (mean age 74,7±9,9, 39% female) were enrolled and randomized 1:1 irrespective of left ventricular ejection fraction or the presence of diabetes. UA in serum was determined daily and renal handling of UA was evaluated by fractional excretion of UA (FEUA). Two-way mixed ANOVA and Wilcoxon rank-sum test were used for statistical analyses.

Results

The empagliflozin group comprised 30 patients and the placebo group comprised 29 patients. There were no differences in baseline patient characteristics including LVEF, NT-proBNP, eGFR, HbA1c. In the placebo group, UA increased from baseline 487.86±32.21 μmol/l to 500.38±28.37 μmol/l at day (d) 2 (p=0.045), 512.36±29.43 μmol/l at d3 (p=0.018), and 518.46±31.14 μmol/l at d4 (p=0.021). By contrast, in the empagliflozin group, UA tended to decrease compared to baseline and was significantly lower compared to placebo at d3 (436.08±23.94 vs. 512.36±29.43 μmol/l, p=0.049), d4 (423.20±24.12 vs. 518.46±31.14 μmol/l, p=0.018), and d5 (423.17±24.75 vs. 508.62±31.08 μmol/l, p=0.037). Serum UA returned to baseline levels in both groups 30 days after cessation of empagliflozin. The reduction of UA in the empagliflozin group was associated with a significant enhancement in FEUA (5.49±0.81% vs. 9.38±1.07%, p=0.004).

Conclusion

Our data suggest that the additive treatment with empagliflozin in patients with acute decompensated heart failure lowers the levels of serum uric acid compared to loop diuretics alone. This effect may be attributed to an improved renal elimination of UA and a better preservation of kidney function. It remains to be clarified whether this uricosuric effect of empagliflozin also contributes to its prognostic benefits in heart failure.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Public hospital(s). Main funding source(s): Department of Internal Medicine I, Division of Cardiology, Angiology and Intensive Medical Care, University Hospital Jena, Friedrich-Schiller-University, Jena, Germany) Boehringer Ingelheim Inc.

Observation of Two New Excited Ξ_{b}^{0} States Decaying to Λ_{b}^{0}K^{-}π^{+}

Two narrow resonant states are observed in the Λ_{b}^{0}K^{-}π^{+} mass spectrum using a data sample of proton-proton collisions at a center-of-mass energy of 13 TeV, collected by the LHCb experiment and corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 6  fb^{-1}. The minimal quark content of the Λ_{b}^{0}K^{-}π^{+} system indicates that these are excited Ξ_{b}^{0} baryons. The masses of the Ξ_{b}(6327)^{0} and Ξ_{b}(6333)^{0} states are m[Ξ_{b}(6327)^{0}]=6327.28_{-0.21}^{+0.23}±0.12±0.24 and m[Ξ_{b}(6333)^{0}]=6332.69_{-0.18}^{+0.17}±0.03±0.22  MeV, respectively, with a mass splitting of Δm=5.41_{-0.27}^{+0.26}±0.12  MeV, where the uncertainties are statistical, systematic, and due to the Λ_{b}^{0} mass measurement. The measured natural widths of these states are consistent with zero, with upper limits of Γ[Ξ_{b}(6327)^{0}]<2.20(2.56) and Γ[Ξ_{b}(6333)^{0}]<1.60(1.92)  MeV at a 90% (95%) credibility level. The significance of the two-peak hypothesis is larger than nine (five) Gaussian standard deviations compared to the no-peak (one-peak) hypothesis. The masses, widths, and resonant structure of the new states are in good agreement with the expectations for a doublet of 1D Ξ_{b}^{0} resonances.

Measurement of the Nuclear Modification Factor and Prompt Charged Particle Production in p-Pb and pp Collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5 TeV

The production of prompt charged particles in proton-lead collisions and in proton-proton collisions at the nucleon-nucleon center-of-mass energy sqrt[s_{NN}]=5  TeV is studied at LHCb as a function of pseudorapidity (η) and transverse momentum (p_{T}) with respect to the proton beam direction. The nuclear modification factor for charged particles is determined as a function of η between -4.8<η<-2.5 (backward region) and 2.0<η<4.8 (forward region), and p_{T} between 0.2<p_{T}<8.0  GeV/c. The results show a suppression of charged particle production in proton-lead collisions relative to proton-proton collisions in the forward region and an enhancement in the backward region for p_{T} larger than 1.5  GeV/c. This measurement constrains nuclear PDFs and saturation models at previously unexplored values of the parton momentum fraction down to 10^{-6}.

Evidence for a New Structure in the J/ψp and J/ψp[over ¯] Systems in B_{s}^{0}→J/ψpp[over ¯] Decays

An amplitude analysis of flavor-untagged B_{s}^{0}→J/ψpp[over ¯] decays is performed using a sample of 797±31 decays reconstructed with the LHCb detector. The data, collected in proton-proton collisions between 2011 and 2018, correspond to an integrated luminosity of 9  fb^{-1}. Evidence for a new structure in the J/ψp and J/ψp[over ¯] systems with a mass of 4337_{-4}^{+7} _{-2}^{+2}  MeV and a width of 29_{-12}^{+26} _{-14}^{+14}  MeV is found, where the first uncertainty is statistical and the second systematic, with a significance in the range of 3.1 to 3.7σ, depending on the assigned J^{P} hypothesis.

Analysis of Neutral B-Meson Decays into Two Muons

Branching fraction and effective lifetime measurements of the rare decay B_{s}^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-} and searches for the decays B^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-} and B_{s}^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-}γ are reported using proton-proton collision data collected with the LHCb detector at center-of-mass energies of 7, 8, and 13 TeV, corresponding to a luminosity of 9  fb^{-1}. The branching fraction B(B_{s}^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-})=(3.09_{-0.43-0.11}^{+0.46+0.15})×10^{-9} and the effective lifetime τ(B_{s}^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-})=2.07±0.29±0.03  ps are measured, where the first uncertainty is statistical and the second systematic. No significant signal for B^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-} and B_{s}^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-}γ decays is found and upper limits B(B^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-})<2.6×10^{-10} and B(B_{s}^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-}γ)<2.0×10^{-9} at the 95% C.L. are determined, where the latter is limited to the range m_{μμ}>4.9  GeV/c^{2}. The results are in agreement with the standard model expectations.

Fabrication of binary g-C3N4/UU-200 composites with enhanced visible-light-driven photocatalytic performance toward organic pollutant eliminations

In this study, g-C₃N₄/UU-200 heterojunction photocatalysts displaying superior photocatalytic activity for organic pollutant elimination under white LED light irradiation were fabricated via an in situ solvothermal method. The successful construction of a heterojunction between g-C₃N₄ and UU-200 was evidenced by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The improved photocatalytic degradation of rhodamine B (RhB) and tetracycline hydrochloride (TCH) over g-C₃N₄/UU-200 compared with that over the individual components can be attributed to the anchoring of the g-C₃N₄ layered structure on the UU-200 surface promoting the decrease of the bandgap of UU-200, as confirmed by ultraviolet–visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, and to the light-induced charge separation efficiency stemming from a suitable heterojunction structure, which was revealed by photoluminescence spectroscopy and electrochemical analyses. Specifically, the 40% g-C₃N₄/UU-200 composite showed the highest photocatalytic activity toward the degradation of RhB (97.5%) within 90 min and TCH (72.6%) within 180 min. Furthermore, this catalyst can be recycled four runs, which demonstrates the potential of the g-C₃N₄/UU-200 composite as an alternative visible-light-sensitive catalyst for organic pollutant elimination.

The binary g-C₃N₄/UU–200 heterojunction photocatalysts displaying superior photocatalytic activity for organic pollutant elimination under white LED light irradiation were fabricated via an in situ solvothermal method.

Synthesis of a UiO-66/g-C3N4 composite using terephthalic acid obtained from waste plastic for the photocatalytic degradation of the chemical warfare agent simulant, methyl paraoxon

In our study, Zr-based UiO-66 (Zr) was synthesized using terephthalic acid obtained from waste plastic. Thereafter, UiO-66/g-C₃N₄ composites were prepared by the solvothermal method, and their photocatalytic activity in the photodegradation of the chemical warfare agent simulant, dimethyl 4-nitrophenyl phosphate (DMNP), was evaluated. The as-synthesized UiO-66/g-C₃N₄ exhibited a high surface area (1440 m² g⁻¹) and a high capillary volume (1.49 cm³ g⁻¹). The UiO-66/g-C₃N₄ samples absorbed a visible light band with bandgap energies of 2.13–2.88 eV. The as-synthesized UiO-66/g-C₃N₄ composites exhibited highly efficient degradation of DMNP with a short half-life (t_1/2 of 2.17 min) at pH 7 under visible light irradiation. The trapping experiments confirmed that the h⁺ and ˙O₂⁻ radicals played an important role in the photocatalytic degradation of DMNP. The UiO-66/g-C₃N₄ catalyst simultaneously performed two processes: the hydrolysis and photocatalytic oxidation of DMNP in water. During irradiation, a p–n heterojunction between UiO-66 and g-C₃N₄ restricted the recombination of photogenerated electrons and holes, resulting in the enhancement in the degradation rate of DMNP.

UiO-66/g-C₃N₄ with a high surface area (1440 m² g⁻¹) and a high capillary volume (1.49 cm³ g⁻¹) exhibited highly efficient degradation of dimethyl 4-nitrophenyl phosphate with t_1/2 = 2.17 min.

Linearized and nonlinearized modellings for comparative uptake assessment of metal-organic framework-derived nanocomposite towards sulfonamide antibiotics

The emergent occurrence of sulfonamide species involving sulfadiazine (SDZ) and sulfamethazine (SMZ) in aquatic systems can cause a wide range of potential risks; hence, remediation strategies need to be necessary. Here, we develop the novel metal-organic framework-derived nanocomposite, and apply for the adsorption of SDZ and SMZ antibiotics. To assess the best-fitting kinetic (pseudo first-order, pseudo second-order) and isotherm (Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, Dubinin-Radushkevich, Redlich-Peterson, Sips, Toth, and Khan) models, a series of numerous statistical analysis was performed. Numerous error functions including squares of the errors (SSE), hybrid fractional error function (HYBRID), Marquardt's percent standard deviation (MPSD), and mean relative error (MRE) were also analyzed to assess the linear and nonlinear models. The results indicated that both linear and nonlinear kinetic models were mostly fitted well with pseudo second-order models (R_adj)² > 0.97. Although linear kinetics gave better (R_adj)², error functions (MRE, SSE, HYBRID, and MPSD) were mostly higher than those of nonlinear kinetics. For adsorption isotherm, nonlinear Redlich-Peterson was the most compatible model with extremely high adjusted coefficients of determination (R_adj)² ~ 1.0000. While nonlinear Langmuir model gave relatively high (R_adj)² (0.9898-0.9960) and acceptable error functions, we found the considerable difference of error functions and parameters among four types of linear Langmuir (Types I, II, III, IV). The findings indicate potential errors as selecting one of linearized Langmuir types in equilibrium study. It is suggested that nonlinear models should be applied for better fitness.

Primary biosorption mechanism of lead (II) and cadmium (II) cations from aqueous solution by pomelo (Citrus maxima) fruit peels

The present work investigates the primary adsorption mechanisms of lead (II) and cadmium (II) cations onto pomelo fruit peel (PFP) from aqueous solution. pH, adsorption time, ion strength, and initial metal cation concentrations, which are factors affecting the uptake of these cations, are investigated. Results show that pH and ion strengths strongly affect the removal of these cations from aqueous solution. Different isotherm adsorption models, such as Langmuir, Freundlich, and Sips, are utilized to fit the experimental data in order to determine the adsorption in nature. The Langmuir monolayer adsorption capacities are found to be 47.18 mg/g for lead (II) and 13.35 mg/g for cadmium (II). Kinetic and thermodynamic studies based on a combination of FT-IR and TG-DSC spectroscopies demonstrate that electrostatic attraction plays a primary adsorption mechanism of lead (II) and cadmium (II) cations onto pomelo fruit peel.

Engineering conversion of Asteraceae plants into biochars for exploring potential applications: A review

Asteraceae presents one of the most globally prevalent, cultivated, and fundamental plant families. However, a large amount of agricultural wastes has been yearly released from Asteraceae crops, causing adverse impacts on the environment. The objective of this work is to have insights into their biomass potentials and technical possibility of conversion into biochars. Physicochemical properties are systematically articulated to orientate environmental application, soil amendment, and other utilizations. Utilizations of Asteraceae biochars in wastewater treatment can be categorized by heavy metal ions, organic dyes, antibiotics, persistent organic pollutants (POPs), and explosive compounds. Some efforts were made to analyze the production cost, as well as the challenges and prospects of Asteraceae-based biochars.

Multifunctional ZnO nanoparticles bio-fabricated from Canna indica L. flowers for seed germination, adsorption, and photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes

The potential of green nanomaterials for environmental and agricultural fields is emerging due to their biocompatible, eco-friendly, and cost-effective performance. We report the use of Canna indica flowers extract as new capping and stabilizing source to bio-fabricate ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO NPs for dyes removal, seed germination. ZnO NPs was biosynthesized by ultrasound-assisted alkaline-free route to reach the critical green strategy. The physicochemical findings of ZnO revealed small crystallite size (27.82 nm), sufficient band-gap energy (3.08 eV), and diverse functional groups. Minimum‑run resolution IV approach found the most pivotal factors influencing on removal of Coomassie Brilliant Blue G-250. Uptake studies pointed out that pseudo second-order, and Langmuir were the best fitted models. Dye molecules behaved monolayer adsorption on ZnO surface layers, and controlled by chemisorption. Natural solar light was used as effective source for photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (94.23% of removal and 31.09 mg/g of uptake capacity). Compared with H₂O and ZnSO₄, ZnO NPs positively affected the growth of shoot and root lengths (10.2-27.8%) of bean seedlings in most cases. ZnO acts an agrochemical for boosting weight gain, and germination ratio. This study may be promising for developing the recyclable, multifunctional ZnO nanoparticles for environmental and agricultural applications.

Bimetallic Ag-Zn-BTC/GO composite as highly efficient photocatalyst in the photocatalytic degradation of reactive yellow 145 dye in water

Ag_x-Zn_100-x-BTC/GO composites (BTC: benzene-1,3,5-tricarboxylic, GO: graphene oxide) with different Ag/Zn molar ratios were synthesized using microwave-assisted hydrothermal treatment. The Ag_x-Zn_100-x-BTC/GO exhibited excellent photocatalytic performance in the reactive yellow 145 dye (RY-145) degradation under irradiation of visible light with nearly 100% of RY-145 removal after 35 min, as compared to Zn-BTC/GO and Ag-BTC/GO. Reactive oxygen species scavenging assays have shown that the holes (h⁺) and superoxide radical anion (O₂^-•) play a primary role in RY-145 degradation. Based on the band structure of materials, the Z-scheme photocatalytic mechanism was suggested. The effect of catalyst dosage, pH and dye concentration on the efficiency of photocatalytic activity of bimetallic Ag₅₀-Zn₅₀-BTC/GO was also investigated. The improvement in photocatalytic activity of bimetallic Ag₅₀-Zn₅₀-BTC/GO could be given by the synergism of (i) absorption of visible light confirmed by UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectra; (ii) the increased lifetime as evidenced by photoluminescence spectra and transient photocurrent response; (iii) the increased oxygen vacancy defects as confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy results. The degradation pathway of RY-145 dye was also predicted based on liquid chromatography-mass spectrometer analysis. The removed chemical oxygen demand, biological oxygen demand, total organic carbon outcomes indicated the high mineralization ability for RY-145 degradation over Ag₅₀-Zn₅₀-BTC/GO.

Branching Fraction Measurements of the Rare B_{s}^{0}→ϕμ^{+}μ^{-} and B_{s}^{0}→f_{2}^{'}(1525)μ^{+}μ^{-} Decays

The branching fraction of the rare B_{s}^{0}→ϕμ^{+}μ^{-} decay is measured using data collected by the LHCb experiment at center-of-mass energies of 7, 8, and 13 TeV, corresponding to integrated luminosities of 1, 2, and 6  fb^{-1}, respectively. The branching fraction is reported in intervals of q^{2}, the square of the dimuon invariant mass. In the q^{2} region between 1.1 and 6.0  GeV^{2}/c^{4}, the measurement is found to lie 3.6 standard deviations below a standard model prediction based on a combination of light cone sum rule and lattice QCD calculations. In addition, the first observation of the rare B_{s}^{0}→f_{2}^{'}(1525)μ^{+}μ^{-} decay is reported with a statistical significance of 9 standard deviations and its branching fraction is determined.

Observation of the Mass Difference between Neutral Charm-Meson Eigenstates

A measurement of mixing and CP violation in neutral charm mesons is performed using data reconstructed in proton-proton collisions collected by the LHCb experiment from 2016 to 2018, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 5.4  fb^{-1}. A total of 30.6 million D^{0}→K_{S}^{0}π^{+}π^{-} decays are analyzed using a method optimized for the measurement of the mass difference between neutral charm-meson eigenstates. Allowing for CP violation in mixing and in the interference between mixing and decay, the mass and decay-width differences are measured to be x_{CP}=[3.97±0.46(stat)±0.29(syst)]×10^{-3} and y_{CP}=[4.59±1.20(stat)±0.85(syst)]×10^{-3}, respectively. The CP-violating parameters are measured as Δx=[-0.27±0.18(stat)±0.01(syst)]×10^{-3} and Δy=[0.20±0.36(stat)±0.13(syst)]×10^{-3}. This is the first observation of a nonzero mass difference in the D^{0} meson system, with a significance exceeding seven standard deviations. The data are consistent with CP symmetry and improve existing constraints on the associated parameters.

Observation of New Resonances Decaying to J/ψK^{+} and J/ψϕ

The first observation of exotic states with a new quark content cc[over ¯]us[over ¯] decaying to the J/ψK^{+} final state is reported with high significance from an amplitude analysis of the B^{+}→J/ψϕK^{+} decay. The analysis is carried out using proton-proton collision data corresponding to a total integrated luminosity of 9  fb^{-1} collected by the LHCb experiment at center-of-mass energies of 7, 8, and 13 TeV. The most significant state, Z_{cs}(4000)^{+}, has a mass of 4003±6_{-14}^{+4}  MeV, a width of 131±15±26  MeV, and spin parity J^{P}=1^{+}, where the quoted uncertainties are statistical and systematic, respectively. A new 1^{+}  X(4685) state decaying to the J/ψϕ final state is also observed with high significance. In addition, the four previously reported J/ψϕ states are confirmed and two more exotic states, Z_{cs}(4220)^{+} and X(4630), are observed with significance exceeding 5 standard deviations.

The degradation of paraben preservatives: Recent progress and sustainable approaches toward photocatalysis

Parabens are a class of compounds primarily used as antimicrobial preservatives in pharmaceutical products, cosmetics, and foodstuff. Their widely used field leads to increasing concentrations detected in various environmental matrices like water, soil, and sludges, even detected in human tissue, blood, and milk. Treatment techniques, including chemical advanced oxidation, biological degradation, and physical adsorption processes, have been widely used to complete mineralization or to degrade parabens into less complicated byproducts. All kinds of processes were reviewed to give a completed picture of parabens removal. In light of these treatment techniques, advanced photocatalysis, which is emerging rapidly and widely as an economical, efficient, and environmentally-friendly technique, has received considerable attention. TiO₂-based and non-TiO₂-based photocatalysts play an essential role in parabens degradation. The effect of experimental parameters, such as the concentration of targeted parabens, concentration of photocatalyst, reaction time, and initial solution pH, even the presence of radical scavengers, are surveyed and compared from the literature. Some representative parabens such as methylparaben, propylparaben, and benzylparaben have been successfully studied the reaction pathways and their intermediates in their degradation process. As reported in the literature, the degradation of parabens involves the production of highly reactive species, mainly hydroxyl radicals. These reactive radicals would attack the paraben preservatives, break, and finally mineralize them into simpler inorganic and nontoxic molecules. Concluding perspectives on the challenges and opportunities for photocatalysis toward parabens remediation are also intensively highlighted.

Angular Analysis of the B^{+}→K^{*+}μ^{+}μ^{-} Decay

We present an angular analysis of the B^{+}→K^{*+}(→K_{S}^{0}π^{+})μ^{+}μ^{-} decay using 9  fb^{-1} of pp collision data collected with the LHCb experiment. For the first time, the full set of CP-averaged angular observables is measured in intervals of the dimuon invariant mass squared. Local deviations from standard model predictions are observed, similar to those in previous LHCb analyses of the isospin-partner B^{0}→K^{*0}μ^{+}μ^{-} decay. The global tension is dependent on which effective couplings are considered and on the choice of theory nuisance parameters.

Observation of a New Excited D_{s}^{+} Meson in B^{0}→D^{-}D^{+}K^{+}π^{-} Decays

Using pp collision data corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 5.4  fb^{-1} collected with the LHCb detector at a center-of-mass energy of 13 TeV, the B^{0}→D^{-}D^{+}K^{+}π^{-} decay is studied. A new excited D_{s}^{+} meson is observed decaying into the D^{+}K^{+}π^{-} final state with large statistical significance. The pole mass and width, and the spin parity of the new state are measured with an amplitude analysis to be m_{R}=2591±6±7  MeV, Γ_{R}=89±16±12  MeV, and J^{P}=0^{-}, where the first uncertainty is statistical and the second systematic. Fit fractions for all components in the amplitude analysis are also reported. The new resonance, denoted as D_{s0}(2590)^{+}, is a strong candidate to be the D_{s}(2^{1}S_{0})^{+} state, the radial excitation of the pseudoscalar ground-state D_{s}^{+} meson.

Observation of Multiplicity Dependent Prompt χ_{c1}(3872) and ψ(2S) Production in pp Collisions

The production of χ_{c1}(3872) and ψ(2S) hadrons is studied as a function of charged particle multiplicity in pp collisions at a center-of-mass energy of 8 TeV, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 2  fb^{-1}. For both states, the fraction that is produced promptly at the collision vertex is found to decrease as charged particle multiplicity increases. The ratio of χ_{c1}(3872) to ψ(2S) cross sections for promptly produced particles is also found to decrease with multiplicity, while no significant dependence on multiplicity is observed for the equivalent ratio of particles produced away from the collision vertex in b-hadron decays. This behavior is consistent with a calculation that models the χ_{c1}(3872) structure as a compact tetraquark. Comparisons with model calculations and implications for the binding energy of the χ_{c1}(3872) state are discussed.

Measurement of CP Violation in the Decay B^{+}→K^{+}π^{0}

A measurement of CP violation in the decay B^{+}→K^{+}π^{0} is reported using data corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 5.4  fb^{-1} collected with the LHCb experiment at a center-of-mass energy of sqrt[s]=13  TeV. The CP asymmetry is measured to be 0.025±0.015±0.006±0.003, where the uncertainties are statistical, systematic, and due to an external input. This is the most precise measurement of this quantity. It confirms and significantly enhances the observed anomalous difference between the direct CP asymmetries of the B^{0}→K^{+}π^{-} and B^{+}→K^{+}π^{0} decays, known as the Kπ puzzle.

First Observation of the Decay B_{s}^{0}→K^{-}μ^{+}ν_{μ} and a Measurement of |V_{ub}|/|V_{cb}|

The first observation of the suppressed semileptonic B_{s}^{0}→K^{-}μ^{+}ν_{μ} decay is reported. Using a data sample recorded in pp collisions in 2012 with the LHCb detector, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 2  fb^{-1}, the branching fraction B(B_{s}^{0}→K^{-}μ^{+}ν_{μ}) is measured to be [1.06±0.05(stat)±0.08(syst)]×10^{-4}, where the first uncertainty is statistical and the second one represents the combined systematic uncertainties. The decay B_{s}^{0}→D_{s}^{-}μ^{+}ν_{μ}, where D_{s}^{-} is reconstructed in the final state K^{+}K^{-}π^{-}, is used as a normalization channel to minimize the experimental systematic uncertainty. Theoretical calculations on the form factors of the B_{s}^{0}→K^{-} and B_{s}^{0}→D_{s}^{-} transitions are employed to determine the ratio of the Cabibbo-Kobayashi-Maskawa matrix elements |V_{ub}|/|V_{cb}| at low and high B_{s}^{0}→K^{-} momentum transfer.

Biogenic synthesis of MgO nanoparticles from different extracts (flower, bark, leaf) of Tecoma stans (L.) and their utilization in selected organic dyes treatment

The occurrence and influence of dyes-containing effluents are alarmingly serious; hence, the treatment of such wastewater needs to be undertaken. Here, we report the biosynthesis strategy and utilisation of MgO nanoparticles (MgO NPs) from distinct Tecoma stans (L.) plant extracts (flower, bark, and leaf). The FT-IR spectroscopy revealed the dominance of chemical bonds as well as functional groups on MgO NPs surfaces. For adsorption experiments, the impact of pH, contact time, concentration, and pH on uptake efficiency of congo red (CR) and crystal violet (CV) dyes were investigated and then optimized using response surface methodology and Box-Behnken design. Under the optimal conditions, 99.7% CR (at C_i = 9.33 mg/L, Dos = 0.22, pH = 7.9) and 90.8% CV (at C_i = 5.0 mg/L, Dos = 0.3, pH = 6.3) were attained. The maximum adsorption capacities were calculated from 89.24 to 150.49 mg/g, where MgO NPs derived from flower extract gave better adsorption efficiency than those from other extracts. Therefore, MgO NPs material from Tecoma stans (L.) flower extract is expected as a perspective adsorbent for the effective remediation of organic dyes.

Influence of Brønsted and Lewis acidity of the modified Al-MCM-41 solid acid on cellulose conversion and 5-hydroxylmethylfurfuran selectivity

The modified Al-MCM-41 solid acids with turning Si/Al molar ratio were successfully fabricated through a hydrothermal route and utilized as a suitable catalyst in the cellulose conversion into 5-hydroxylmethylfurfural (5-HMF). The crystal structure, composition, morphologies and porosity of as-synthesized acids were characterized by XRD, FT-IR, N₂ adsorption-desorption, TEM and EDS. The ²⁷Al MAS NMR and ²⁹Si-MAS NMR results revealed the existence of both Al framework and Al extra framework. Besides, the existence of medium-weak and strong acid sites, according to Brønsted and Lewis acidity, in Al-MCM-41 acids was confirmed by NH₃-TPD and FTIR-pyridine adsorption. The 30Al-MCM-41 solid acid (Si/Al molar ratio = 30) exhibited excellent activity with the highest 5-HMF yield of 40.56% compared to other samples. We also discovered that 5-HMF production, as well as cellulose conversion, strongly depended on the total acid, strong/medium-weak acid ratio, as well as Brønsted/Lewis acid ratio. Therefore, these parameters have been considered as essential factors for the design of solid acid for 5-HMF production.

Palladium nanoparticles in situ synthesized on Cyclea barbata pectin as a heterogeneous catalyst for Heck coupling in water, the reduction of nitrophenols and alkynes

This study develops an effective method for in situ synthesis of PdNPs using Cyclea barbata pectin as green reducing and stabilizing reagent. The catalytic activity of nanocomposite was evaluated for Heck coupling reaction, reduction of nitrophenols and reduction of alkynes.

Model-Independent Study of Structure in B^{+}→D^{+}D^{-}K^{+} Decays

The only anticipated resonant contributions to B^{+}→D^{+}D^{-}K^{+} decays are charmonium states in the D^{+}D^{-} channel. A model-independent analysis, using LHCb proton-proton collision data taken at center-of-mass energies of sqrt[s]=7, 8, and 13 TeV, corresponding to a total integrated luminosity of 9  fb^{-1}, is carried out to test this hypothesis. The description of the data assuming that resonances only manifest in decays to the D^{+}D^{-} pair is shown to be incomplete. This constitutes evidence for a new contribution to the decay, potentially one or more new charm-strange resonances in the D^{-}K^{+} channel with masses around 2.9  GeV/c^{2}.

Constraints on the K_{S}^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-} Branching Fraction

A search for the decay K_{S}^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-} is performed using proton-proton collision data, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 5.6  fb^{-1} and collected with the LHCb experiment during 2016, 2017, and 2018 at a center-of-mass energy of 13 TeV. The observed signal yield is consistent with zero, yielding an upper limit of B(K_{S}^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-})<2.2×10^{-10} at 90% C.L.. The limit reduces to B(K_{S}^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-})<2.1×10^{-10} at 90% C.L. once combined with the result from data taken in 2011 and 2012.

Observation of Enhanced Double Parton Scattering in Proton-Lead Collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=8.16 TeV

A study of prompt charm-hadron pair production in proton-lead collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=8.16  TeV is performed using data corresponding to an integrated luminosity of about 30  nb^{-1}, collected with the LHCb experiment. Production cross sections for different pairs of charm hadrons are measured and kinematic correlations between the two charm hadrons are investigated. This is the first measurement of associated production of two charm hadrons in proton-lead collisions. The results confirm the predicted enhancement of double parton scattering production in proton-lead collisions compared to the single parton scattering production.

Chitosan-MnO2 nanocomposite for effective removal of Cr (VI) from aqueous solution

In this report, the adsorption of Cr(VI) onto MnO₂/CS nanocomposite material from aqueous solution is investigated. All the factors, which affect the adsorption, such as pH, adsorption time, Cr(VI) initial concentration and adsorbent dosage, are also examined. The results obtained show that the Cr(VI) uptake is strongly affected by pH and ion strength. Analysis within the nonlinear isotherm models indicates that the Sips isotherm combining with the Langmuir and Freundlich models offer the best fit to the experimental data due to the obtained highest R² and smallest RMSE and χ² values. The calculated Langmuir monolayer adsorption capacity is 61.56 mg g^-1 at pH of 2.0 and adsorption time of 120 min. Moreover, the mechanism studies by combining theoretical models with analytical spectroscopies reveal that the electrostatic attraction plays the important role to the uptake of Cr(VI) onto MnO₂/CS nanocomposite. Therefore, the present nanocomposite material can be applied to remove total Cr from wastewater produced by the galvanized manufacturing factory with a relatively high efficiency.

Early assessment of health impact of the population-based tobacco control interventions in Vietnam

Background

Through the period from 2013 until now, Vietnam has achieved progress in tobacco control following the implementation of MPOWER in 2008 and the enactment of the comprehensive Law on Prevention and Control of Tobacco Harms in 2012. This study aimed to assess the cost-effectiveness of 6 population-based interventions including health promotion & education program; smoke-free models; cessation program; graphic health warning on cigarette package; bans on advertising/ promotion/ sponsoring; raising tobacco tax.

Methods

An Excel-based Markov model was adopted based on the previous studies of HV Minh et al 2018 and Ngalesoni et al 2017. We estimated the potential health gain on Vietnamese population by using the empirical data on tobacco epidemic in Vietnam together with the reviewed intervention effects from the literature. Due to the rapid decline of risk of cardiovascular disease after the smoking behavior changed, the short-run heath impacts were mainly estimated based on the change of smoking-related health burden of cardiovascular diseases.

Results

All six population-based interventions on tobacco control that have implemented were considered to be highly cost-effective ranged from 1,405 VND - 135,560 VND per DALYs averted compared to the WHO recommended threshold at 1 GDP per capita. Raising tobacco tax was projected to the most cost-effective intervention due to its significant health gains and potential to work on in the long run. Besides, smoke-free model, as the best intervention on individual behavior change, should be continue invested together with campaigns on raising awareness.

Conclusions

The study results shown the potential health impact in tobacco control in Vietnam after 10 years' implementation of MPOWER. Also, the findings provided a strong message that more attention should be paid to developing the national tobacco control strategy in the next phase to make the best use of available resources.

Key messages

Adequate attention should be equally paid for both political interventions and individual behavior – aimed interventions (communication, cessation…) in the fight against tobacco harms. Aside from raising tobacco tax, further investigations and investments on cessation services as well as smoking bans in public places are needed in Vietnam to achieve the best compliance on MPOWER.

Measurement of CP-Averaged Observables in the B^{0}→K^{*0}μ^{+}μ^{-} Decay

An angular analysis of the B^{0}→K^{*0}(→K^{+}π^{-})μ^{+}μ^{-} decay is presented using a dataset corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 4.7  fb^{-1} of pp collision data collected with the LHCb experiment. The full set of CP-averaged observables are determined in bins of the invariant mass squared of the dimuon system. Contamination from decays with the K^{+}π^{-} system in an S-wave configuration is taken into account. The tension seen between the previous LHCb results and the standard model predictions persists with the new data. The precise value of the significance of this tension depends on the choice of theory nuisance parameters.

Optimization, equilibrium, adsorption behavior and role of surface functional groups on graphene oxide-based nanocomposite towards diclofenac drug

Aquatic contamination of diclofenac (DCF), an emergent non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs), can result in adverse effects to many ecosystems through biomagnification. Hence, introducing effective remediation techniques to sequester the pharmaceutical wastes is highly fundamental to prevent their accumulation in the environment. Generally, adsorption has been presented as a green and efficient approach. Herein, we report the characterization and application of the novel magnetic nanocomposite (GO@CoFe₂O₄) derived from cobalt-based ferrite (CoFe₂O₄) and graphene oxide (GO) for DCF adsorption. For the optimization procedure, the response surface methodology (RSM) was adopted to investigate the impacts of DCF concentration (1.6-18.4 mg/L), DCF dosage (0.08-0.92 g/L), and solution pH (2.6-9.4) to find the optimum conditions for DCF removal, at 10.5 mg/L, 0.74 g/L, and pH 4, respectively. For the adsorption experiments, the kinetic, isotherm, thermodynamic, and intraparticle diffusion models were systematically studied. Moreover, we have elucidated the role of functional groups on the surface of GO@CoFe₂O₄ in enhancing the adsorption of DCF drug. With good removal efficiency (up to 86.1%), high maximum adsorption capacity (32.4 mg/g), GO@CoFe₂O₄ can be a potential candidate to eliminate DCF drug from water.

Observation of New Ξ_{c}^{0} Baryons Decaying to Λ_{c}^{+}K^{-}

The Λ_{c}^{+}K^{-} mass spectrum is studied with a data sample of pp collisions at a center-of-mass energy of 13 TeV corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 5.6  fb^{-1} collected by the LHCb experiment. Three Ξ_{c}^{0} states are observed with a large significance and their masses and natural widths are measured to be m[Ξ_{c}(2923)^{0}]=2923.04±0.25±0.20±0.14  MeV, Γ[Ξ_{c}(2923)^{0}]=7.1±0.8±1.8  MeV, m[Ξ_{c}(2939)^{0}]=2938.55±0.21±0.17±0.14  MeV, Γ[Ξ_{c}(2939)^{0}]=10.2±0.8±1.1  MeV, m[Ξ_{c}(2965)^{0}]=2964.88±0.26±0.14±0.14  MeV, Γ[Ξ_{c}(2965)^{0}]=14.1±0.9±1.3  MeV, where the uncertainties are statistical, systematic, and due to the limited knowledge of the Λ_{c}^{+} mass. The Ξ_{c}(2923)^{0} and Ξ_{c}(2939)^{0} baryons are new states. The Ξ_{c}(2965)^{0} state is in the vicinity of the known Ξ_{c}(2970)^{0} baryon; however, their masses and natural widths differ significantly.

Search for the Rare Decays B_{s}^{0}→e^{+}e^{-} and B^{0}→e^{+}e^{-}

A search for the decays B_{s}^{0}→e^{+}e^{-} and B^{0}→e^{+}e^{-} is performed using data collected with the LHCb experiment in proton-proton collisions at center-of-mass energies of 7, 8, and 13 TeV, corresponding to integrated luminosities of 1, 2, and 2  fb^{-1}, respectively. No signal is observed. Assuming no contribution from B^{0}→e^{+}e^{-} decays, an upper limit on the branching fraction B(B_{s}^{0}→e^{+}e^{-})<9.4(11.2)×10^{-9} is obtained at 90(95)% confidence level. If no B_{s}^{0}→e^{+}e^{-} contribution is assumed, a limit of B(B^{0}→e^{+}e^{-})<2.5(3.0)×10^{-9} is determined at 90(95)% confidence level. These upper limits are more than one order of magnitude lower than the previous values.

Measurement of f_{s}/f_{u} Variation with Proton-Proton Collision Energy and B-Meson Kinematics

The ratio of the B_{s}^{0} and B^{+} fragmentation fractions f_{s} and f_{u} is studied with B_{s}^{0}→J/ψϕ and B^{+}→J/ψK^{+} decays using data collected by the LHCb experiment in proton-proton collisions at 7, 8, and 13 TeV center-of-mass energies. The analysis is performed in bins of B-meson momentum, longitudinal momentum, transverse momentum, pseudorapidity, and rapidity. The fragmentation-fraction ratio f_{s}/f_{u} is observed to depend on the B-meson transverse momentum with a significance of 6.0σ. This dependency is driven by the 13 TeV sample (8.7σ), while the results for the other collision energies are not significant when considered separately. Furthermore, the results show a 4.8σ evidence for an increase of f_{s}/f_{u} as a function of collision energy.

Isospin Amplitudes in Λ_{b}^{0}→J/ψΛ(Σ^{0}) and Ξ_{b}^{0}→J/ψΞ^{0}(Λ) Decays

Ratios of isospin amplitudes in hadron decays are a useful probe of the interplay between weak and strong interactions and allow searches for physics beyond the standard model. We present the first results on isospin amplitudes in b-baryon decays, using data corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 8.5  fb^{-1}, collected with the LHCb detector in pp collisions at center of mass energies of 7, 8, and 13 TeV. The isospin amplitude ratio |A_{1}(Λ_{b}^{0}→J/ψΣ^{0})/A_{0}(Λ_{b}^{0}→J/ψΛ)|, where the subscript on A indicates the final-state isospin, is measured to be less than 1/21.8 at 95% confidence level. The Cabibbo suppressed Ξ_{b}^{0}→J/ψΛ decay is observed for the first time, allowing for the measurement |A_{0}(Ξ_{b}^{0}→J/ψΛ)/A_{1/2}(Ξ_{b}^{0}→J/ψΞ^{0})|=0.37±0.06±0.02, where the uncertainties are statistical and systematic, respectively.