Changes In Index Research Articles

Investigating metabolic syndrome markers and body mass index changes in patients with acne vulgaris treated with isotretinoin: A prospective study.

Acne vulgaris is a common inflammatory skin disease that occurs during puberty, affecting approximately 85% of young adults and may persist into adulthood. The pathophysiology of acne is multifactorial, involving hormonal, inflammatory, and immune mechanisms. Isotretinoin is widely used for treating severe cystic acne or recurrent acne. This medication is considered a pharmacological option that significantly reduces sebum secretion, leading to a reduction in the size of sebaceous glands. It also induces a lack of differentiation in sebaceous cysts, resulting in a decrease in lipid accumulation. This research is a prospective study. Patient contact details were obtained directly from those visiting the dermatology clinic, and they were monitored for a duration of 3 months. Essential data was gathered through patient examinations and inquiries at the clinic, including the prescription of tests prior to initiating isotretinoin treatment. Furthermore, follow-up tests and examinations were performed within the initial and third months post-treatment commencement. Sixty-two patients participated in the study, selected through non-probability (convenience) sampling. The therapeutic dose taken by patients was 20 mg of isotretinoin daily (n = 49) or every other day (n = 13). Among the participants, six patients experienced a decrease of 3 units or more in HDL levels, while 16 patients saw an increase of 3 units or more in LDL levels, 3 months after beginning the treatment. Additionally, the triglyceride (TG) levels increased by 9 units or more in six individuals, and the blood sugar (BS) levels increased by 5 units or more in nine individuals, 3 months after treatment initiation. Moreover, one person's waist circumference increased by 1.5 cm 3 months after treatment began. The average weight of the individuals at the end of the treatment rose from 60.74 kg to 61.12 kg. However, this weight increase was not statistically significant. (p > 0.05). In general, the results of our study show that the use of oral isotretinoin as a treatment option for the management of acne vulgaris can be effective when administered at the correct dosage, offering a safe and low-complication option.

Optical Properties of Three‐Electron GaAs/AlxGa1−xAs QDs with Finite Confinement Potential

AbstractIn the case of finite confinement potential, the average energies and corresponding wave functions for the 1s2nl configurations, in which nl = 2s, 2p, 3d, and 4f, of three‐electron GaAs/AlxGa1−xAs quantum dot with and without impurity are computed by using a new variational approach which is a combination of Quantum Genetic Algorithm procedure and Hartree–Fock–Roothaan method. Using the calculated average energies and wave functions, a detailed investigation of the linear, third‐order nonlinear and total absorption coefficients (ACs) and the refractive index changes (RICs) for the quantum dot is performed, and the obtained results are presented as a function of dot radius and photon energies. The results show that the dot radius, the impurity charge, and the height of potential barrier have a strong influence on the average energies and absorption spectra of the system. As the potential barrier height increases, the peak positions of the ACs and RICs shift toward higher energy, and there is a significant increase in the amplitudes of the absorption spectra as the potential barrier height increases. In addition, the electron wave functions begin to enter the quantum well at smaller dot radii with increasing barrier height.

Preparation of Complex Polysaccharide Gels with Zanthoxylum bungeanum Essential Oil and Their Application in Fish Preservation.

In this study, novel functional ZEO-complex gels were prepared using sodium alginate, inulin, grape seed extract (GSE), and Zanthoxylum bungeanum essential oil (ZEO) as the primary raw materials. The effect of the addition of inulin, GSE, and ZEO on water vapor permeability (WVP), tensile strength (TS), and elongation at break (EAB) of ZEO-complex polysaccharide gels was investigated. A comprehensive score (Y) for evaluating the characteristics of ZEO-complex polysaccharide gels was established by principal component analysis. MATLAB analysis and box-Behnken design describe each factor's four-dimensional and three-dimensional interactions. It was found that Y could reach the maximum value when the ZEO addition was at a moderate level (C = 2%). The optimum preparation process of ZEO-complex polysaccharide gels was as follows: the addition of inulin was at 0.84%, the addition of GSE was at 0.04%, and the addition of ZEO was at 2.0785%; in this way, the Y of ZEO-complex polysaccharide gels reached the maximum (0.82276). Optical scanning and X-ray diffraction tests confirmed that the prepared ZEO-complex gels have a smooth and continuous microstructure, good water insulation, and mechanical properties. The storage test results show that ZEO-complex polysaccharide gels could play a significant role in the storage and fresh-keeping of grass carp, and the physicochemical properties of complex polysaccharide gels were improved by adding ZEO. In addition, according to the correlation of fish index changes during storage, adding ZEO in complex polysaccharide gels was closely correlated with the changes in fish TBARS and TVB-N oxidation decay indices. In conclusion, the ZEO-complex polysaccharide gels prepared in this study had excellent water insulation, mechanical properties, and outstanding fresh-keeping effects on grass carp.

Robotic Ultrasound and Novel Collagen Analyses for Polycystic Kidney Disease Research Using Mice.

3D imaging and histology are critical tools for assessing polycystic kidney disease ( PKD ) in patients and animal models. Magnetic resonance ( MR ) imaging provides micron resolution, but is time consuming, expensive, and access to equipment and expertise is limiting. Robotic ultrasound ( US ) imaging has lower spatial resolution but is faster, more cost effective, and accessible. Similarly, Picrosirius red ( PSR ) staining and brightfield microscopy is commonly used to assess fibrosis; however, alternative methods have been shown in non-kidney tissues to provide greater sensitivity and more detailed structural characterization. In this study, we evaluated the utility of robotic US and alternative methods of quantifying PSR staining for PKD research. We compared longitudinal total kidney volume ( TKV ) measurements using US and MR. We additionally compared PSR imaging and quantification using standard brightfield with that by circularly polarized light with hue analysis, and fluorescence imaging analyzed using CT-FIRE software for automatic detection of individual collagen fibers. Increased TKV was detected by US in Pkd1RC/RC vs wild type ( WT ) at timepoints spanning early to established disease. US inter-observer variability was greater but allowed scanning in 2-5 minutes/mouse while MR required 20-30 minutes/mouse. While no change in fibrotic index was detected in this cohort of relatively mild disease using brightfield, polarized light showed fibers skewed thinner in Pkd1RC/RC vs WT. Fluorescence imaging showed a higher density of collagen fibers in Pkd1RC/RC vs WT, and fibers were thinner and curvier with no change in length. Additionally, fiber density was higher in both glomeruli and tubules in Pkd1RC/RC , and glomeruli had a higher fiber density than tubules in Pkd1RC/RC , and trended higher in WT. These studies show robotic ultrasound is a rigorous imaging tool for pre-clinical PKD research. Additionally, they demonstrate the increased sensitivity of polarized and fluorescence analysis of PSR-stained collagen.

Detecting statistically significant changes in connectedness: A bootstrap-based technique

Connectedness quantifies the extent of interlinkages within economies or markets based on a network approach. Connectedness is measured by the Diebold–Yilmaz spillover index, and abrupt increases in this measure are thought to result from major events. However, formal statistical evidence of events causing such increases is scant. We develop a bootstrap-based technique to evaluate the probability that the value of the spillover index changes at a statistically significant level following an exogenously defined event. We further show how our procedure can detect the dates of unknown events endogenously. The results of a simulation exercise support the effectiveness of our method. We revisit the original dataset from Diebold and Yilmaz’s seminal work and obtain statistical support that the spillover index increases quickly in the wake of adverse shocks. Our methodology accounts for small sample bias and is robust with respect to modifications of the pre-event period and forecast horizon.

Dwindling dollars: The inflation-adjusted decline of Medicare reimbursement in endocrine surgery (2003–2023)

Medicare determines reimbursement rates for medical services, often setting a benchmark that is followed by private insurers. Across various medical specialties, decreases in Medicare reimbursement have been observed. However, the extent of Medicare reimbursement for endocrine surgery remains unexplored. This study investigates the trajectory of reimbursement rates for endocrine surgical procedures. Data spanning 2003 to 2023 were gathered from the Physician Fee Schedule Look-Up Tool for 16 endocrine operations and procedures. Each operation's or procedure's relative value units and conversion factor, which accounts for geographic variation in relative value units, are determined annually by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The total annual Medicare reimbursement for each operation or procedure was determined by multiplying procedure-specific relative value units with the conversion factor. Raw yearly percentage changes in reimbursement were computed and compared to changes in the general consumer price index. All data were then corrected for inflation. The compound annual growth rate for each procedure was calculated using inflation-adjusted data. From 2003 to 2023, the mean unadjusted percentage change for all queried procedures was+14.14% (standard deviation 0.28). During this same time, the consumer price index increased by 69.15% (P < .001). After adjusting for inflation, the mean total adjusted percentage change for all queried procedures over the entire study period was -31% (standard deviation 0.17). The adjusted average yearly compound annual growth rate was -1.93% (standard deviation 0.92). Only 1 procedure showed an increase in reimbursement (image-guided fine-needle aspiration,+32%). Inflation-adjusted Medicare reimbursement rates for endocrine surgical procedures have consistently declined. Stakeholders must address these trends to ensure access to quality surgical endocrine care in an evolving health care landscape.

(Digital Presentation) A Microfluidic Approach for Direct Immobilization of Extracellular Vesicles on Gold Nanoislands for Efficient Detection Using Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are crucial for intercellular communication and are potential biomarkers for cancer diagnosis. To improve the detection of EVs, we have developed a platform that uses an ultra-thin film of gold to form gold nanoislands. This platform allows for the direct immobilization of EVs onto the gold nanoislands, using a simple microfluidic device. Detection of the EVs is based on the Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance (LSPR) method. With this innovative approach, we aim to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of EV detection, which could ultimately lead to faster detection and therefore the possibility of an early-stage diagnosis of cancer.Gold nanoparticles are deposited on glass substrates using physical vapor deposition to create an ultra-thin layer of gold. Annealing the nanoparticle film forms gold nano-islands, which are drops with varying shapes and sizes from solid dewetting. A PDMS microfluidic device with a tapered channel of 200-micron depth and a 4mm diameter collection chamber bonded to gold-coated substrates is used to detect EVs from MCF7. The EVs flow through the channel at a rate of 10 µL/min, and the LSPR spectrum of the gold nanoislands is measured before and after EV immobilization. Changes in the refractive index of the surrounding medium due to the presence of EVs cause a shift in the Au LSPR band, which can be used to detect EVs.In this study, we will utilize extracellular vesicles (EVs) obtained from a breast cancer cell line (MCF7) that had been grown in a small bioreactor. A simple microfluidic device will be designed and fabricated to evaluate the Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance (LSPR) shift of the gold plasmon band for different EV concentrations. The microfluidic device was chosen due to its high reproducibility, sensitivity, and ability to work with small amounts of EVs. To understand the sensitivity of this platform, a calibration curve will be plotted and compared with the results of other platforms that we have previously studied. To validate the LSPR detection using the microfluidic device, the eluted exosomes from the device will be characterized using TRPS and FESEM techniques.Overall, our findings will demonstrate the potential of utilizing EVs and LSPR-based microfluidic devices as a promising tool for the detection of EVs and further clinical analysis for cancer diagnosis.

Perioperative non-pharmaceutical therapies for insomnia in cancer survivors: a systematic review and network meta-analysis protocol

IntroductionThe presence of perioperative insomnia is common but yet often overlooked among cancer survivors. Non-pharmaceutical therapies have shown promise in treating cancer-related insomnia during the perioperative period; however, the existing...

Multi-modal flexible and inexpensive plasmonic metasurface for wide range of refractive index sensing

Abstract A plasmonic metasurface containing nanobumps of sub-wavelength feature size arranged in a hexagonal pattern on a flexible substrate and covered with a thin film of gold is investigated as a refractive index sensor. The chosen polymer patterns coated with gold aid in activating the surface plasmon polariton modes. Using numerical calculations, it is shown that this surface can exhibit plasmonic effect with an extremely shallow pattern height of 92.5 nm and minimal thickness of 25 nm of gold over it. The excitation of the plasmonic modes is confirmed using electric field profiles calculated at the relevant wavelengths. As the surface is highly sensitive to changes in the cladding index, and the chosen design aids in exciting three plasmon modes that are suitably well-separated in wavelength, this surface can be used for an extremely wide range of refractive index sensing because each mode contributes uniquely to a different range of refractive index. The results establish that the metasurface is suitable for a variety of applications, including gas detection with a sensitivity of 633 nm/RIU using mode-1, identifying SARS-CoV-2 viral molecules with a sensitivity of 428 nm/RIU using mode-2 and 238 nm/RIU using mode-3, and discriminating between normal and diseased brain tissues in the cerebrospinal fluid in the high-index range using mode-3. The prototype metasurface is made using a cost-effective soft lithography technique using an economical master mould. The inexpensive technique of fabrication, use of very thin metal film, and wavelength of detection lying within the visible to near infrared range imply a low-cost sensor. The structural and optical characterization of the prototype validates the numerical study of the sample.

Efficient topical treatments of cutaneous lupus erythematosus: A systematic review and network meta-analysis.

Although cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) has been treated with topical agents, there was no high-quality evidence of which agents were more effective, and which clinical scores were more suitable. On December 22nd, 2023, a search was conducted across five databases to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Two authors independently screened the titles and abstracts of articles based on predetermined criteria. Selected articles were then assessed for inclusion in a blinded manner, with any disagreements resolved through consensus. Data were abstracted in duplicate, and a random-effects model was utilized for network meta-analysis. The certainty of the evidence was evaluated according to PRISMA guidelines, using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach. The analysis was finalized in January 2024, with the primary outcome focused on the change in cutaneous lupus erythematosus disease area and severity index (CLASI) from baseline. Seven RCTs involving 231 participants were analyzed. The network meta-analysis (NMA) revealed that 4% nicotinamide demonstrated the highest probability of achieving the intended outcomes, with a mean difference (MD) of 3.10 and a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 1.99-4.21. Additionally, 0.05% clobetasol, 2% nicotinamide, and 0.1% tacrolimus also exhibited statistically significant differences, with MDs of 2.30 and 95% CIs of 0.73-3.88; 2.30 and 0.97-3.63; and 1.30 and 0.03-2.57, respectively. As data with a high level of evidence, NMAs demonstrated that 4% nicotinamide, 0.05% clobetasol, 2% nicotinamide, and 0.1% tacrolimus are statistically significant topical agents. CLASI may be an appropriate outcome to evaluate drug efficacy in CLE.

Effects of cheese ingestion on muscle mass and strength in possible sarcopenia women: an open-label, parallel-group study

BackgroundNutrient-rich cheese supplements were demonstrated to have improvements in markers of sarcopenia in healthy elders. However, the potential effects of cheese in individuals with possible sarcopenia remain unknown.MethodThis 90-day randomized controlled trial (RCT) included 68 women aged 60–80 years with possible sarcopenia in China, who were randomly assigned to three groups: Control group (CG), Original cheese group (OG: 9.0 g protein; 322.8 mg calcium), and Golden cheese group (GG: 12.7 g protein; 802.1 mg calcium). OG and GG were instructed to consume their habitual diet along with 4 slices of supplied cheese, while CG was directed to maintain their usual dietary habits. Face-to-face interviews, anthropometric measurements, and blood sample collection were conducted at baseline, midway (60 days), and the end of the trial.ResultAt the end of the trial, the primary outcome, changes of Skeletal Muscle Mass Index (SMI) were found to be higher in OG (0.18 ± 0.02 kg/m2) and GG (0.14 ± 0.02 kg/m2) compared to CG (0.09 ± 0.02 kg/m2). The secondary outcome, changes of handgrip strength were higher in GG (1.82 ± 4.16 kg) than CG (-0.61 ± 3.78 kg). There were no significant differences in makers for muscle function between three groups (P > 0.05). In the self-comparison, Creatinine/Cystatin C significantly increased in both OG and GG. In addition, OG had a significant increase in changes of free and total carnitine compared to CG.ConclusionBoth golden and original cheese supplementation enhanced muscle strength and mass in older women with possible sarcopenia. The mechanism behind this effect may be linked to muscle cell energy metabolism.Trial registrationThe present study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry with the registration number ChiCTR2300078720 (retrospectively registered, 20231215).

Decompression alone or with fusion for degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis (Nordsten-DS): five year follow-up of a randomised, multicentre, non-inferiority trial

ObjectiveTo assess whether decompression alone is non-inferior to decompression with instrumented fusion five years after primary surgery in patients with degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis.DesignFive year follow-up of a randomised, multicentre, non-inferiority...

"Nonperturbative Nonlinearities": Perhaps Less than Meets the Eye.

We address challenges in characterizing changes in permittivity and refractive index beyond standard perturbative methods with special attention given to transparent conductive oxides (TCOs). We unveil a realistic limit to permittivity changes under high optical power densities. Our study covers both slow and ultrafast nonlinearities, demonstrating that all nonlinearities induce refractive index changes accurately described by a simple curve with saturation electric field (or irradiance) and maximum change of permittivity at saturation. Our model, grounded in material properties, like oscillator strength and characteristic times, offers a robust framework for understanding and predicting nonlinear optical phenomena in TCOs and other materials. We differentiate between the significance of higher-order nonlinear susceptibilities in ultrafast and slow nonlinear scenarios. We aim to provide valuable insights for researchers exploring strong light-matter interaction.

Spillover effect of the geopolitical uncertainty on the cryptocurrency market

PurposeThis study aims to examine the influence of geopolitical uncertainty on cryptocurrency markets (CM).Design/methodology/approachUtilizing two distinct sets of daily returns data spanning from January 1, 2019, to May 4, 2023, the analysis employs the geopolitical risk (GPR) index formulated by Caldara and Iacoviello (2022), which encapsulates two pivotal events: the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia–Ukraine conflict. The cryptocurrency market (CM) encompasses Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Litecoin (LTC) and Dogecoin (DOGE). Employing the DCC-GARCH model and supplementing it with wavelet coherence analysis to discern perceptual distinctions between short- and long-term market reactions.FindingsThe main findings indicate that the GPR index clearly impacts the return of CM in the short-, mid- and long-term periods. BTC exhibited the highest volatility in response to changes in the GPR index. The cryptocurrency market offers a better diversification opportunity, and the impact of geopolitical events varies across time, with their direction and magnitude closely related to the specificity of the CM.Practical implicationsThis research is helpful for financial market investors, portfolio and risk managers, make informed decisions about including cryptocurrencies in their investment portfolios to mitigate the risks in uncertainty period.Originality/valueCryptocurrency market volatility is treated weakly during the risk period. With advanced statistical method, this study links two important events: the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia–Ukraine conflict and selects the top four cryptocurrencies constituting 80% of the market. This study examines the impact of geopolitical risk on the cryptocurrency market and shows that this market is considered a safe haven.

Optical Detection of Underwater Propeller Wake Based on a Position-Sensitive Detector

The study of underwater vehicle wake detection is of significant importance within the field of target detection, localisation, and tracking of underwater vehicles. Given that propellers are the propellers of modern ships and underwater vehicles, the propeller wake field represents the principal target source for wake detection in underwater vehicles. The objective of this paper is to propose a method for measuring the wake of an underwater propeller based on a position-sensitive detector. A theoretical model of the relationship between the laser spot displacement and the change in the refractive index of the wake field is established on the basis of the principle of laser beam deflection. A prototype experimental setup for underwater propeller wake measurement was constructed based on the aforementioned optical measurement method. Furthermore, the simulation of the propeller wake flow field with strong density stratification and linear density stratification was conducted based on the experimental setup. Furthermore, experiments were conducted to detect the flow field of a propeller wake. The experimental results indicate that the wake dissipation times of the propeller in a strong density-stratified water environment are approximately 800 s and 750 s. Following the stabilisation of the wake field density, the laser spot position is observed to be stable at 0.341 mm and 0.441 mm, respectively, with a corresponding refractive index change of 2.99 × 10−6 RIU (refractive index unit) and 3.87 × 10−6 RIU, respectively. These experimental results are found to be in general agreement with the simulation results of the propeller wake field. A comparison of the experimental wake measurements based on the device with the wake measurements based on a CTD (conductivity–temperature–depth) device reveals a consistent trend. The realisation of this detection technique is of great significance for the advancement of research in the field of optical detection of underwater vehicle wake streams.

Effects of hydrostatic pressure, temperature, and position-dependent mass on the nonlinear optical properties of triple delta-doped GaAs quantum well

In this study, we thoroughly investigate the impacts of hydrostatic pressure, temperature, and position-dependent mass (PDM) on the nonlinear optical properties of asymmetric triple δ-doped GaAs quantum wells. Our analysis covers total optical absorption coefficients, relative refractive index changes, nonlinear optical rectification, second harmonic generation, and third harmonic generation. Initially, we employ PDM to solve the time-independent Schrödinger equation using the diagonalization method under effective mass and parabolic band approaches, considering pressure and temperature dependencies. Utilizing the first four energy eigenvalues and eigenfunctions, we apply the compact density matrix method to compute the system’s nonlinear optical properties numerically. The results indicate a shift in optical property peak positions toward lower (higher) energy spectra with increasing hydrostatic pressure (temperature). Furthermore, the influence of PDM shifts the system’s optical properties toward the higher energy spectrum, resembling the effect of temperature. From an experimental and theoretical perspective, one of the topics that researchers work on most is GaAs-based δ-doped systems (δ-doped heterojunction bipolar transistors, δ-doped field effect transistors, δ-multiple independent gate field effect transistors, etc.). We believe these findings will provide valuable insights for the researchers involved in GaAs-based δ-doped optoelectronic device design.

Mechanisms of high cardiovascular risk in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Aim. To optimise the curation of patients with a comorbid course of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) to explore pathogenetically-based targets of high cardiovascular risk (CVR) formation. Materials and methods. An open comparative study was conducted with the formation of a cohort of 126 patients with comorbid course of NAFLD and CVD with different stages of liver fibrosis, who were divided into comparison groups according to SCORE-2 and SCORE-2-OR. Collection of complaints, medical and life history, examination, general laboratory investigations and examination of hormonal status, abdominal ultrasound, EchoCG and liver elastometry to assess the severity of fibrosis were performed. Work with the study data and graphical analysis was performed using Microsoft Office 2019 software package statistical analysis using STATISTICA 12.0. Results. SCORE-2 risk increased with increasing age of patients (z=-5.29; p0.01). The most common non-cardiovascular co-morbidities in the study sample were cholelithiasis in 35 (66.78%) patients. Soluble leptin receptor levels were lower (z=-8.60; p0.01) and leptin resistance index was higher (z=-5.95; p0.01) in the higher cardiovascular group. Corresponding data were also obtained when the changes in insulin resistance index were calculated and analysed (z=-2.15; p0.01). Fibrosis stage was higher, in patients with higher CVR (z=-3.488; p0.01), while no statistically significant difference in steatosis level was recorded. According to transient elastometry, patients taking statins had lower levels of fibrosis (z=-3.747; p0.01) and hepatic steatosis (z=-3.379; p0.01). Conclusions. The most common pathology is arterial hypertension. Gallstone disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus are often found in patients with a comorbid course. The risk of comorbid pathology and CVD increases with age. Formation of advanced stages of liver fibrosis, hyperinsulinaemia and leptin resistance phenomenon are associated with higher CVR according to SCORE-2 and SCORE-2-OR. The syndrome of increased intestinal permeability is a possible mechanism of increased CVD in patients with NAFLD.

Measuring intra-industry trade and productivity in the South African pharmaceutical sector

Background: The South African pharmaceutical sector is Africa’s largest and most advanced but heavily depends on imported products and active pharmaceutical ingredients to meet its demands. The status quo is due to low intra-industry trade, which is necessary to induce innovation and technological progress essential for accelerating local production, export growth and reducing dependence on imports.Aim: The primary objective of this article was to examine intra-industry trade in South Africa’s pharmaceutical sector and subsequently, total factor productivity (TFP) as a key driver of intra-industry trade.Setting: Intra-industry trade was measured using data obtained from the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development databases, while the TFP was measured using data from the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) covering 2001–2021.Method: The marginal intra-industry trade index (MIIT) and unmatched changes in trade (UMCIT) were used to measure intra-industry trade, while the Malmquist total factor productivity (MTFP) index was used to analyse SARB data to determine TFP.Results: The MIIT index and UMCIT revealed that trade is predominantly inter-industry with episodes of industry specialisation and significant intra-industry changes. The MTFP results showed that TFP is solely driven by technical changes.Conclusion: The study recommends that South Africa should develop a coordinated and sustainable innovation system in the pharmaceutical sector. This will help prevent sporadic technological advancements and promote intra-industry trade.Contribution: The article contributes to the empirical literature on intra-industry trade in developing countries by showing the correlation between an improvement in TFP and an increase in intra-industry trade necessary to stimulate domestic production to reduce high import demand.

Human research islet cell culture outcomes at the Alberta Diabetes Institute IsletCore

ABSTRACT Human islets from deceased organ donors have made important contributions to our understanding of pancreatic endocrine function and continue to be an important resource for research studies aimed at understanding, treating, and preventing diabetes. Understanding the impacts of isolation and culture upon the yield of human islets for research is important for planning research studies and islet distribution to distant laboratories. Here, we examine islet isolation and cell culture outcomes at the Alberta Diabetes Institute (ADI) IsletCore (n = 197). Research-focused isolations typically have a lower yield of islet equivalents (IEQ), with a median of 252,876 IEQ, but a higher purity (median 85%) than clinically focused isolations before culture. The median recovery of IEQs after culture was 75%, suggesting some loss. This was associated with a shift toward smaller islet particles, indicating possible islet fragmentation, and occurred within 24 h with no further loss after longer periods of culture (up to 136 h). No overall change in stimulation index as a measure of islet function was seen with culture time. These findings were replicated in a representative cohort of clinical islet preparations from the Clinical Islet Transplant Program at the University of Alberta. Thus, loss of islets occurs within 24 h of isolation, and there is no further impact of extended culture prior to islet distribution for research.

Sustainable aviation fuel: Impact of alkene concentration on jet fuel thermal oxidative test (JFTOT)

AbstractOf the processes that are approved to produce synthetic kerosene for use in jet fuel, about half produce olefinic kerosene that is hydrotreated. The alkene concentration in synthetic kerosene is indirectly regulated through the thermal oxidative stability specification. Perceptions about the deleterious influence of alkenes on thermal oxidative stability suggest that olefinic kerosene must be deeply hydrogenated. The extent of olefin saturation required has economic implications. To evaluate what an acceptable alkene concentration in synthetic kerosene is, the impact of alkene concentration on the outcome of the jet fuel thermal oxidative stability test (JFTOT) performed at 325°C in accordance with the ASTM D3241 standard test method was experimentally evaluated. Model synthetic kerosene mixtures to which different concentrations of alkenes (1‐decene, α‐methylstyrene, indene) were added, as well as control samples were studied. In the concentration range investigated, up to 10 wt% 1‐decene, 5 wt% α‐methylstyrene, and 2 wt% indene did not lead to increased fouling in the JFTOT. Fouling passed through a minimum value with increasing alkene concentration and alkene concentration on its own was a poor predictor of thermal oxidative stability. Analysis of the kerosene collected after passing through the JFTOT found measurable changes in density and refractive index. Dissolved oxygen reacting during thermal oxidative stability testing was accounted for mostly in oxygen‐containing products in the kerosene boiling range, which indicated that the heavier products were mainly hydrocarbon in nature. In addition to initiation by autoxidation, the investigation also pointed to the existence of a second thermally initiated fouling pathway that does not require the presence of oxygen.