Functional Benefits Research Articles

Mid-term Results Following Surgical Hip Dislocation for Residual Pediatric Deformities.

Mid-term results following surgical hip dislocation (SHD) for healed slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) and Perthes-related deformities are limited. This study aimed to characterize patient-reported outcome measures [including rates of achieving the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) and patient-acceptable symptomatic state (PASS)], report survivorship free from conversion to arthroplasty, and identify risk factors associated with composite failure. Twenty-seven patients (n=13 SCFE, n=14 Perthes) with minimum 2-year follow-up (mean 5.7y) who underwent primary SHD from 2011 to 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. Modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) and International Hip Outcome Tool-12 (iHOT-12) were collected preoperatively and at the latest follow-up. Composite failure was defined as not meeting any MCID/PASS threshold or conversion to arthroplasty. Continuous variables were analyzed using independent-sample t tests or the Wilcoxon Mann-Whitney test, where appropriate. Categorical variables were analyzed using χ2 or Fisher exact test, as indicated. Kaplan-Meier survivorship was determined. Mean mHHS improved from 56.2 to 77.2 (P=0.003) and from 63.0 to 86.3 (P<0.001), while iHOT-12 improved from 36.1 to 64.7 (P=0.008) and 36.8 to 77.2 (P<0.001) in SCFE and Perthes cohorts, respectively. MCID achievement for mHHS and iHOT-12 were 85.7% and 75.0% among SCFE, compared with 83.3% and 81.8% in Perthes. The proportion meeting PASS for mHHS and iHOT-12 was 30% for both in SCFE, compared with 61.5% and 83.3% in Perthes. 5- and 10-year survivorship free of conversion to arthroplasty was 100% and 80%, as well as 93% and 77% in the SCFE and Perthes cohorts, respectively. At mid-term follow-up, patients undergoing SHD for residual deformities related to chronic SCFE and Perthes demonstrated significant improvements in mHHS and iHOT-12, as well as relatively high rates of meeting MCID. SHD is an effective approach providing pain and functional benefit. Preoperative expectations, though, should be tempered in these cohorts, as some pre-existing damage limits the ability to completely normalize anatomy. Level III, retrospective comparative study.

The Health Benefits of Ghee: A Comparative Analysis of Ayurvedic and Modern Scientific Perspectives: A Review

The scientific perspective on dairy fats, including ghee, is evolving. In the past, dairy fats were thought to have adverse health effects, but recent research is revealing their functional benefits and the positive aspects of their fatty acids. This shift in scientific understanding has sparked interest in ghee, a clarified butter derived from milk, which holds cultural significance in India and plays a prominent role in Ayurvedic medicine. While modern scientific studies on ghee’s benefits are limited, Ayurvedic literature extensively documents its therapeutic potential, categorizing different types of ghee based on factors like milk source, manufacturing methodand maturation. To explore ghee’s therapeutic potential further, researchers conducted a review comparing Ayurvedic literature to modern scientific studies. These mentions were grouped into various health benefit clusters. While recent research emphasized cardiovascular health and skin benefits, Ayurveda, an ancient medical system, has emphasized cognitive benefits, gastrointestinal healthand overall nourishment. These aspects are gaining significance as the world’s population ages and chronic diseases become more common. As scientists work to address these health issues, they can look to the detailed descriptions in Ayurvedic texts. These texts provide information about the animal sources of ghee, how it is processedand how it is aged, as well as its associated health benefits. This knowledge could offer valuable insights for guiding future research efforts. Exploring ghee’s traditional usage and formulations could lead to new scientific discoveries and potentially innovative approaches to addressing modern health challenges.

Polyanionic Electrolyte Ionization Desalination Empowers Continuous Solar Evaporation Performance.

Solar evaporation contributes to sustainable and environmentally friendly production of fresh water from seawater and wastewater. However, poor salt resistance and high degree of corrosion of traditional evaporators in brine make their implementation in real applications scarce. To overcome such deficiency, a polyanionic electrolyte functionalization strategy empowering excellent uniform desalination performance over extended periods of time is exploited. This 3D superhydrophilic graphene oxide solar evaporator design ensures stable water supply by the enhanced self-driving liquid capillarity and absorption at the evaporation interface as well as efficient vapor diffusion. Meanwhile, the polyanionic electrolyte functionalization implemented via layer-by-layer static deposition of polystyrene sodium sulfonate effectively regulates/minimizes the flux of salt ions by exploiting the Donnan equilibrium effect, which eventually hinders local salt crystallization during long-term operation. Stable evaporation rates in line with the literature of up to 1.68kg m-2 h-1 are achieved for up to 10 days in brine (15‰ salinity) and for up to 3 days in seawater from Hangzhou Bay in the East China Sea (9‰ salinity); while, maintaining evaporation efficiencies of ≈90%. This work demonstrates the excellent benefits of polyanionic electrolyte functionalization as salt resistance strategy for the development of high-performance solar powered seawater desalination technology and others.

Banana Starch Nanoparticles Disrupt the Integrity of the Intestinal Barrier by Opening Tight Junctions in Mice.

The banana-derived starch nanoparticles have been extensively used in food and biomedicine industries, due to their unique physicochemical properties and functional benefits. With their pervasive presence in food, people are significantly exposed to these nanoparticles, raising concerns about their potential health risks and impact on intestinal health. However, there is still limited understanding of the direct interaction between native banana starch nanoparticles (BSNs) and the intestinal systems. Here, it is demonstrated that BSNs can cause tight junctions to loosen, increase intestinal permeability, and disrupt the intestinal barrier. This increased permeability is closely linked to the size of BSNs, with smaller BSNs (d = 60nm) having a stronger effect on permeation. Furthermore, the disruption of the intestinal barrier integrity caused by BSNs is connected to a reduced amount of tight junction proteins. Mechanistically, BSNs disrupt tight junctions by affecting mitochondrial function and activating myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) signaling pathway. These findings indicate that BSNs have the potential to pose health risks by compromising the integrity of the intestinal barrier, reminding the safety of food biopolymer nanoparticles in living organisms needs to be re-assessed.

Financial Technology Innovation in Modernizing Zakat Payment in the Digital Era

Research Aims: To explore how the use of fintech in zakat payment is viewed from both Islamic jurisprudential and historical perspectives. Methodology: Library research is used as the primary data collection method. Research Findings: The research concludes that the use of financial technology for zakat payments is an innovative and flexible solution grounded in ijtihad (independent legal reasoning) within Islamic jurisprudence and The use of fintech in zakat payment is a form of technology fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence related to technology) that provides functional benefits in the context of zakat. Theoretical Contribution: Research finding the discourse on Islamic jurisprudence by highlighting how financial technology can be integrated into zakat payment systems, offering a new approach to Islamic financial practices. Research limitation and implication: The use of fintech can significantly streamline zakat payments, making the process more accessible and efficient for Muslims in Indonesia.

Modelling the mass adoption potentials of fashion-augmented reality among the young consumers: evidence from an emerging economy

PurposeThe increasing demand for fashion-augmented reality (FAR) in online fast fashion shopping has the potential to reduce soil and water pollution. Hence, it is vital to understand the success factors that influence consumers’ intention to use FAR (IAR) and actual usage of FAR (UAR) to enhance its adoption.Design/methodology/approachBy incorporating the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology, this study examined the influence of success factors on IAR, the effect of IAR on UAR and the mediating role of IAR in the relationship between success factors and UAR. In total, 803 responses were collected from Indonesia using a cross-sectional approach. Data were examined using partial least squares structural equation modelling.FindingsTheir findings revealed that perceived enjoyment, perceived service value and facilitating conditions significantly influenced IAR and UAR. However, the impacts of perceived functional benefits, lifestyle compatibility and perceived trust were insignificant. Nevertheless, the IAR has a significant influence on UAR. Finally, the IAR mediates the relationships among perceived enjoyment, perceived service value, facilitating conditions and UAR.Research limitations/implicationsThis study provides valuable insights for practitioners to develop marketing strategies and improve consumer perceptions of FAR, particularly in emerging economies. One limitation of this study is that it exclusively examined young consumers and restricted the examination to specific aspects of consumer behaviour.Originality/valueIntegrating the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology and partial least squares structural equation modelling provides a comprehensive understanding of the underlying dynamics and sheds light on the success factors that drive consumer IAR into UAR and contribute to Sustainable Development Goal 12 by reducing soil and water pollution.

Christmas article: Can chili improve the performance of Santa Claus and goblins? A randomized study

Many children expect a visit from Santa Claus, preferably on Christmas Eve and the teasing goblins are active teasing throughout the month of December. Therefore, Santa Claus and goblins must be in good shape for the activities of December. Rice pudding, Christmas pancakes, and other goodies are consumed in large quantities to help both the size of Santa Claus as well as the activity level of the Christmas teasing. Chili peppers and spicy foods contain the compound capsaicin, responsible for their heat and spiciness. Some research suggests that capsaicin may have potential benefits for physical function, although the evidence is not conclusive, and more studies are needed to fully understand its effects. Thus, the purpose of this study was to investigate the acute effect of chili supplementation on strength performance. The study used a randomized, double-blind design. The subjects completed three plank tests measuring the maximum time before and after having pancakes including capsaicin or placebo. Pancake recipe for four persons was 500 g all-purpose flour, 10 dl milk, six eggs, half a teaspoon salt, 50 g melted butter, one teaspoon vanilla, one teaspoon cinnamon, one teaspoon ginger. For the intervention group one teaspoon chili was added. Vanilla, cinnamon and ginger blinded the taste of chili and the adding red tint blinded the visual of chili. When eating the pancakes, sugar and strawberry or blackcurrant jam were added. In august 2023, four Santa Claus-sized Santas and four smaller teasing goblins met the inclusion criteria. There was an overall effect of chili Christmas pancakes compared to control in improving plank time from 111.7 (± 14.6) sec. to 156.3 (± 26.17) sec. (p = 0.043, paired t-test), compared to the change in the control group from 88.8 (± 14.7) sec. to 97.3 (± 19.7) sec. (p = 0.34, paired t-test). In the pooled sample of all eight participants there was evidence that the Christmas pancake meal by itself influenced a change in plank time from 100.2 (± 10.4) sec. to 126.8 (± 17.2) sec. (p = 0.025, paired t-test). However, all the goblins improved in plank time from 133.6 (± 12.5) sec. to 181.22 (± 22.7) sec. (p = 0.035, paired t-test), the Santas did not. In this study, we found that adding chili to Christmas pancakes can improve plank test performance. However, the effect was not detectable for Santas. It was probably the best outcome of the test, that the goblins had a good impact eating chili Christmas pancakes. We therefore recommend that Santa Clauses and teasing goblins use chili in the Christmas pancakes to have the strength to solve the big Christmas tasks in December. It could also be a recommendation based on the literature to use chili in cooking in December, both to keep warm in the cold month of December and perhaps to avoid unnecessary excess weight. None. None.

Efficacy of a couple-based intervention addressing sexual concerns for breast cancer survivors: Results of a randomized controlled trial.

Sexual concerns are common and problematic for breast cancer survivors. Partner and relationship factors often play a key role in determining survivors' sexual adjustment, making it likely that couple-based interventions that integrate survivors' partners could be especially promising for addressing survivors' sexual concerns. Yet few such interventions have been tested. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the Intimacy Enhancement (IE) intervention, a four-session, couple-based intervention addressing breast cancer survivors' sexual concerns by telephone in a randomized controlled trial. Female posttreatment breast cancer survivors reporting sexual concerns and their intimate partners (N=120 couples; 240 participants) were randomized either to the IE intervention or to Living Healthy Together (LHT), an active control intervention of equivalent length. Outcomes (measured at baseline, postintervention, and at 3 and 6 months postintervention) included breast cancer survivors' sexual function (primary), partners' sexual function (secondary), and survivors' and partners' psychosocial and relationship outcomes (secondary). Mixed linear regression models examined intervention effects on outcomes at all follow-ups. Model-based estimates of intervention effects showed greater improvements in survivors' overall sexual function, sexual satisfaction, arousal, lubrication, and orgasm at postintervention (p<.05). Effects on survivors' 3-month and 6-month sexual functioning or other secondary outcomes were minimal. Most couples completed all IE sessions (97%) and LHT (92%), and satisfaction ratings were high. Compared with an active control intervention, the IE intervention had significant short-term benefits for survivors' sexual function. Efforts may be needed to increase the longevity of the positive effects, such as more frequent or adjunctive treatments.

Investigating the effect of customer-robot interaction experience on customer engagement behavior and co-creation value: a mixed methods study

ABSTRACT This study investigated the effect of robots on customer engagement behavior, employing a mixed methods approach. The qualitative study involved in-depth interviews with a total of 25 customers to explore the effects and constructed a theoretical model. A quantitative investigation then evaluated the proposed model based on a sample of 558 valid respondents. The findings demonstrated that customer interaction with service robots affected customer engagement behavior, through customer perceived hedonic, functional, and symbolic benefits. These effects influenced customer happiness and organizational transaction value, facilitating value co-creation between robots, customers, and firms. The impact of robots on customer engagement behavior was contingent upon travel companions and purpose, but not employee support. This study contributes to the literature by enhancing an understanding of service robot performance and customer engagement behavior, offering practical insights for the effective management of robots in the hotel industry.

School-age growth and development following infant feeding and/or water, sanitation, and hygiene interventions in rural Zimbabwe: long-term follow-up of a cluster-randomised trial

Few trials have explored long-term effects of interventions designed to reduce child stunting. We evaluated school-age outcomes in rural Zimbabwean children who received cluster-randomised water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) and/or infant and young child feeding (IYCF) interventions from pregnancy up to 18 months of age. The Sanitation Hygiene Infant Nutrition Efficacy (SHINE) trial enrolled pregnant women from two rural Zimbabwean districts (Chirumanzu and Shurugwi) between 2012 and 2015, and cluster-randomised them using a 2×2 factorial design to standard-of-care, WASH, IYCF, or combined WASH & IYCF, with a co-primary outcome of height-for-age Z-score and haemoglobin at 18 months (clinicaltrials.govNCT01824940). Children who were HIV-unexposed, age 7 years, and still living in Shurugwi district were eligible for this follow-up study (registered at PACTR 202201828512110) and measured between 1st April 2021 and 30th September 2022. The primary outcome at 7 years was cognitive function using the Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children (KABC-II). Secondary outcomes were executive function, literacy and numeracy, fine motor skills, socioemotional function, handgrip strength, broad jump distance, shuttle-run test distance, anthropometry, lean mass index, and skinfold thicknesses. Study nurses conducting assessments were blinded to intervention arm. Analysis followed a pre-registered statistical analysis plan. Intention-to-treat analyses using generalized estimating equations were used to assess the long-term effects of WASH and IYCF on each outcome, leveraging the factorial trial design. A pre-specified subgroup analysis by child sex was also performed. Among 3989 HIV-negative women, 3676 children were assessed at age 18 months; of these, 1002 (510 female) were assessed at mean (SD) age 7.3 (0.2) years. There was no effect of IYCF or WASH on the KABC-II score or secondary cognitive outcomes, except a small improvement in socioemotional function in WASH arms (-0.98 points, 95% CI-1.73,-0.22, p=0.01). Children in IYCF arms had higher handgrip strength (0.28Kg, 95% CI 0.02, 0.53, p=0.03); however, in the pre-specified subgroup analysis, improved handgrip strength was seen only in boys (0.53Kg, 95% CI 0.19, 0.87 p=0.002). There were no significant effects of either intervention on other outcomes. Early-life IYCF and WASH led to few functional benefits by school-age. Interventions that are more comprehensive, delivered for longer, and include nurturing care should be considered to improve long-term cognitive and physical function. Wellcome [220671/Z/20/Z, 108065/Z/15/Z]; NIH [R61HD103101]; Thrasher [15250]; and IMMANA [3.02].

Influence of Emotional Marketing in the Field of Cosmetics Among Females Towards Brand Loyalty and Preference

Emotional marketing in the cosmetics industry has gained significant traction as brands strive to connect with female consumers on a personal level. Recognizing that cosmetics are more than just products, brands increasingly foAcus on evoking emotions and building connections that resonate with consumers’ identities, values, and aspirations. By tapping into emotional drivers such as self-confidence, empowerment, and individual expression, cosmetics brands leverage storytelling, personalization, and value-driven messages to create bonds that transcend the traditional product experience. These strategies, by going beyond functional benefits, forge meaningful relationships that positively influence both brand loyalty and consumer preference. As brands grow in their understanding of consumer psychology1 , emotional marketing strategies have evolved from mere trend-following to becoming an integral part of brand identity and differentiation. In a highly competitive cosmetics market, emotional engagement becomes a key asset, distinguishing brands that merely offer quality products from those that offer experiences rooted in emotional satisfaction and alignment with personal values. For instance, storytelling allows brands to narrate their journey and core values—whether through ethical sourcing, sustainability efforts, or diversity and inclusion initiatives—which resonates deeply with consumers2 who prioritize similar values. Similarly, personalization caters to individual preferences, allowing consumers to feel seen and valued, thereby strengthening loyalty and increasing purchase intentions. This study employs a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative data from extensive surveys and qualitative insights from indepth interviews. This dual approach captures not only the broad trends in consumer responses but also the nuanced ways in which emotional marketing influences individual purchasing decisions. The quantitative analysis provides statistical insights into the correlation between emotional marketing and brand loyalty, while qualitative interviews shed light on personal consumer experiences and emotional connections with specific brands. Together, these methods form a holistic view of emotional marketing’s impact, particularly its role in shaping purchasing behaviors and brand preferences among female consumers in the cosmetics industry. Findings from this study reveal that emotional marketing significantly shapes purchasing decisions by enhancing consumer perceptions of brand authenticity, trustworthiness, and alignment with personal values. Female consumers, in particular, are drawn to brands that promote messages of self-love, empowerment, and ethical responsibility. The emotional connection fostered through such marketing initiatives translates to higher brand loyalty and preference, as consumers are more likely to remain loyal to brands that reflect their values and resonate with their self-image. Furthermore, these findings highlight the effectiveness of emotional marketing strategies, providing cosmetics brands with actionable insights into building consumer loyalty and strategically positioning themselves within a saturated market. This approach, focused on aligning with consumer emotions3 and values, offers a sustainable competitive advantage that promotes brand loyalty and encourages positive consumerbrand relationships.

Cute Design and Green Consumption Behaviour: Exploring the Mediating Role and Mechanisms of Emotional Responses

With the increasing trend in environmental protection awareness, consumers are likely to shift their purchasing towards green products. The traditional green marketing has focused on functionality and environmental benefits, with little emphasis on emotionally motivated design impact in consumer decision-making. Based on the Emotional Response Theory and the Affective Design Theory, through reviewing the literature and theoretically discussing how cute design can stimulate the emotional response of consumers and improve the market appeal of green products, this paper analyzes the following. The results indicated that cute design can stimulate positive emotions such as pleasure and caring more effectively, which in turn can promote consumers' environmental purchase intention. This result provides new perspectives on green marketing and emotional design strategies.

Current insights into lower limb prostheses: Brazilian users’ perceptions on the (Re)construction of body image and identity

Purpose This study aims to investigate the (re)construction of body image and identity among Brazilian individuals using orthopedic prostheses from a phenomenological perspective. Design/methodology/approach This qualitative study involved 16 lower-limb orthopedic prosthesis users, and data were collected through semi-structured interviews. Findings Thematic analysis, grounded in phenomenology, identified two superordinate themes: 1) Representativeness of the orthopedic prosthesis, and 2) Considerations regarding prosthesis use. These themes were further divided into subordinate themes: the first into “The prosthesis as part of me,” “What the prosthesis provides me,” and “It means everything to me”; the second into “Feelings about prosthesis use,” “Difficulties in daily life,” and “The gaze of others.” Originality/value According to orthopedic prosthesis users, their experiences and narratives reveal that prostheses play a key role in reconstructing body image and shaping identity. Initially, many participants viewed the prosthesis as merely a replacement for the lost limb, but over time, especially with prolonged use, it became more deeply integrated into their sense of self, fostering a stronger emotional connection. Prostheses were found to offer both functional and emotional benefits, enhancing users’ independence, self-esteem and sense of normalcy. However, despite these positive aspects, participants reported ongoing challenges, including difficulties in adapting to the device and limitations in functional mobility. Additionally, the study revealed that, despite societal progress, individuals with amputations continue to experience judgment and stigma, often reflected in the gaze of others.

LIMITED USE VERSUS TOTAL USE OF TOURNIQUET IN PRIMARY TOTAL KNEE ARTHROPLASTY

Background: Tourniquets are used during total knee arthroplasty for better surgical fields and improved cementation. The functional benefits of tourniquet application for limited periods compared with total duration applications during total knee joint arthroplasty (TKA) surgery have not been well explored. Aim of the study: To evaluate and compare the outcomes of limited use of a tourniquet (LT) for a shorter duration (just before cement application) with total use of a tourniquet (TT) for a longer duration (from skin incision to the completion of surgery). Patients and method: A sum of 100 patients who undertook primary total knee arthroplasty were involved in this study, they were allocated randomly into two groups according to whether a limited or total tourniquet was used during the surgery. Both groups underwent the same surgical procedures with a digital tourniquet applied to all patients using the same technique. Intraoperative and postoperative assessment of blood loss, knee functional society score (KSS), visual analogue score (VAS) for thigh pain and knee pain evaluation, surgical complications like deep vein thrombosis (DVT), wound infections and nerve injuries are the main factors evaluated in the study. Results: Patients with LT required more intraoperative blood transfusion compared with those with TT who required more blood transfusion postoperatively. There were no significant differences in KSS, VAS for thigh pain and knee pain evaluation, and surgical complications like DVT, wound infections and nerve injuries. Conclusion: Limited tourniquet application from starting of cementing is associated with a higher need for intraoperative blood transfusion, but the use of a TT throughout surgery is associated with a higher need for postoperative blood transfusion.

Bioactive Silk Revolution: Harnessing Curcuminoid Dye and Chitosan for Superior Antimicrobial Defence and UV Shielding

Background/Objectives: The use of natural colourants is gaining attention due to their biocompatibility and functional benefits. This study introduces a different approach using turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) dye extract combined with chitosan to significantly enhance the antibacterial and UV-shielding properties of silk. Methods: The turmeric dye’s chemical composition was analyzed using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS), UV–visible spectroscopy, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The dyed silk’s colourfastness was tested through rubbing, washing, and light exposure. Results: The chitosan-mordanted silk showed strong antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), as well as antifungal activity against Aspergillus niger (A. niger). It also demonstrated a high ultraviolet protection factor (UPF). For comparison, alum-mordant was used, and chitosan proved more effective. Beyond its use as a dye, turmeric is renowned for its medicinal properties. Its antioxidant, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory properties have been extensively researched, which are primarily linked to its curcuminoid compounds. Turmeric is used in traditional medication to treat digestive issues, arthritis, and skin diseases. Conclusions: This work underscores the innovative use of plant-based dye extracts and natural mordants like chitosan as a sustainable alternative to conventional metallic mordants, paving the way for the evolution of bioactive silk with improved functional properties.

Viral-mediated increased hippocampal neurogranin modulate synapses at one month in a rat model of controlled cortical impact

Reductions of neurogranin (Ng), a calcium-sensitive calmodulin-binding protein, result in significant impairment across various hippocampal-dependent learning and memory tasks. Conversely, increasing levels of Ng facilitates synaptic plasticity, increases synaptogenesis and boosts cognitive abilities. Controlled cortical impact (CCI), an experimental traumatic brain injury (TBI) model, results in significantly reduced hippocampal Ng protein expression up to 4 weeks post-injury, supporting a strategy to increase Ng to improve function. In this study, hippocampal Ng expression was increased in adult, male Sham and CCI injured animals using intraparenchymal injection of adeno-associated virus (AAV) 30 min post-injury, thereby also affording the ability to differentiate endogenous and exogenous Ng. At 4 weeks, molecular, anatomical, and behavioral measures of synaptic plasticity were evaluated to determine the therapeutic potential of Ng modulation post-TBI. Increasing Ng had a TBI-dependent effect on hippocampal expression of synaptic proteins and dendritic spine morphology. Increasing Ng did not improve behavior across all outcomes in both Sham and CCI groups at the 4 week time-point. Overall, increasing Ng expression modulated protein expression and dendritic spine morphology, but exerted limited functional benefit after CCI. This study furthers our understanding of Ng, and mechanisms of cognitive dysfunction within the synapse sub-acutely after TBI.

The simultaneous use of nanovesicles and magnetic nanoparticles for cancer targeting and imaging.

Cancer is increasingly being recognized as a global health issue with considerable unmet medical need. Despite the rapid progression of anticancer pharmaceuticals, there are still significant challenges for the effective management of cancer. In many circumstances, cancer cells are difficult to detect and treat. Combination of nanovesicles (NVs) and magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs), referred as magnetic nanovesicles (MNVs), is now well recognized as a potential theranostic option for improving cancer treatment outcomes and reducing adverse effects. MNVs can be used for monitoring the long-term fate and functional benefits of cancer therapy. Moreover, MNV-mediated hyperthermia mechanism has been explored as a potential technique for triggering cancer cell death, and/or controlled release of laden cargo. In this review, we focus on the unique characteristics of MNVs as a promising avenue for targeted drug delivery, diagnosis, and treatments of cancer or tumor. Moreover, we discuss critical considerations related to the issues raised in this area, which will guide future research toward better anti-cancer therapeutics for clinical applications.

Determinants of intention to adopt blockchain technology in oil &amp; gas sector in Iraq

Blockchain technology is poised to significantly transform the corporate world, heralding a new era of innovation and efficiency. Over the past few years, its impact has been noted by leaders, academics, and government representatives around the globe this growing interest underscores businesses’ need to evolve and reconsider traditional operational models. To remain competitive, organizations must embrace this change. Before introducing such ground-breaking technology, it is crucial to assess the motivations of primary stakeholders concerning its implementation. This study looks into what influences the use of Blockchain technology in the oil and gas sector, primarily using a quantitative survey of Iraqi oil and gas companies. A questionnaire was distributed among 250 top-level managers, senior executives, project managers, and IT managers for analyzing the data, the study employs the Structural Equation Modelling-Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS) technique, with Smart PLS for data processing. The findings suggest that the intention to utilise blockchain technology is influenced by one’s attitude towards it. Competitive pressure (environmental factors), functional benefit, and privacy/security (technological factors) significantly affect blockchain adoption intention. Nevertheless, there was no discernible correlation between regulatory backing and the desire to use Blockchain. Additionally, cost concern and perceived risk (organizational factors) two factors contribute negatively to the perception of blockchain technology. Besides the direct relationship, the findings revealed that attitude toward blockchain technology mediate the relationship between cost concern, perceived risk, and intention to adopt Blockchain. Built upon the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) model and the Theory of Reasoned Action, this research offers a comprehensive framework for investigating the intention to adopt blockchain technology. The results enhance both theoretical understanding and practical implementation by providing valuable insights into the emerging area of blockchain adoption intentions.

Magnesium and Zinc as Vital Micronutrients Enhancing Athletic Performance and Recovery – a Review

Introduction and Aim of the ReviewMagnesium and zinc are vital for cellular metabolism and maintaining homeostasis, playing a particularly significant role for athletes. Magnesium, which is largely stored in bones and muscles, is essential for protein synthesis. Zinc, a critical trace element found in muscle and bone tissue, participates in over 300 enzymatic reactions, acts as an antioxidant and making both minerals crucial for physical performance. This study aims to explore the physiological role of magnesium (Mg) and zinc (Zn) in the context of athletic performance and to examine their impact on energy metabolism, muscle function, protein synthesis and potential benefits of Mg and Zn supplementation for improving athletic outcomes and post-exercise recovery. MethodsA comprehensive review of scientific literature was conducted through a thorough search of the PubMed database to explore the latest findings on the utility of magnesium and zinc in sports. Only articles in English were considered. Current KnowledgeThe review results indicate that Mg and Zn play critical roles in energy metabolism, muscle and immune system health. Mg deficiency can impair muscle function and reduce endurance, while its supplementation supports muscle relaxation, cardiovascular health, and respiratory efficiency. Although required in small amounts, Zn is indispensable for enzymatic activity, protein synthesis, hormonal balance, and muscle recovery, making it vital for post-exercise recovery and immune response modulation. ConclusionsAvailable data suggest that Mg and Zn supplementation may positively influence athletic performance, energy metabolism, and recovery post-exercise, though further research is needed to establish specific supplementation guidelines. This review provides a foundation for developing supplementation strategies aimed at enhancing athletic performance and supporting healthy recovery.

Dextran-Encapsulated Nanoparticles and Super-Nanoparticle Assemblies: Preparation from Quantum Dots, Fluorescent Polymers, and Magnetic Nanoparticles for Application to Cellular Immunolabeling.

Nanoparticles (NPs) continue to be developed as labels for bioanalysis and imaging due to their small size and, in many cases, emergent properties such as photoluminescence (PL) and superparamagnetism. Some applications stand to benefit from amplification of the advantageous properties of a NP, but this amplification is not a simple matter of scaling for size-dependent properties. One promising approach to amplification is, therefore, to assemble many copies of a NP into a larger but still nanoscale and colloidal entity. Here, we use multiple types of hydrophobic nanocrystal to show that amphiphilic dextran is a versatile material for the preparation and surface functionalization of such super-NP assemblies: CdSe/CdS/ZnS quantum dots (QDs), InP/ZnS QDs, and Si QDs; iron oxide magnetic NPs (MNPs); composites of QDs and MNPs; and composites of QDs and MNPs with fluorene-based and phenylenevinylene-based conjugated polymers. The amphiphilic dextran was also useful for the preparation of conjugated polymer NPs (CPNs) without the inclusion of inorganic nanocrystals. The prepared super-NPs and CPNs were characterized, physically and photophysically, at both the ensemble and the single-particle levels. Per colloidal entity, the super-QDs were orders of magnitude brighter than the individual QDs. This enhancement enabled assemblies of nominally more benign InP/ZnS and Si QDs to be competitive alternative materials to CdSe/CdS/ZnS QDs, which are normally much brighter when compared as individual nanocrystals. The dextran functionalization imparted low nonspecific binding and enabled the use of tetrameric antibody complexes (TACs) for simple and selective immunolabeling of cells with all of the prepared super-NP, CPN, and composite materials. Labeling with the super-QDs provided significantly enhanced PL signals, the super-MNPs enabled magnetic pull-down of cells, and both capabilities were concurrently available with composite assemblies. Overall, this study demonstrates that the preparatory method and functional benefits of amphiphilic dextran extend to a range of hydrophobic materials and combinations thereof. There is strong potential for assembling a diverse set of property-amplified designer labels that are ready-made for in vitro applications in bioanalysis and imaging.