Combination Of Techniques Research Articles

Optimizing Carbonation Efficiency and Mechanical Properties of Low-Calcium Cementitious Materials with MgSO4 Addition

This study investigates the effects of magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) addition on the carbonation efficiency and mechanical properties of low-calcium CO2-sequestering cementitious material (LCC), which is prepared by calcining a mixture of 78.2% limestone and 21.8% sandstone at 1275 °C for 2h. LCC samples were prepared with varying concentrations of MgSO4 solution (0, 0.5, 1, 2, and 3mol/L) and subjected to CO2 curing for 24h. The carbonation behavior, compressive strength, and microstructural characteristics were examined using XRD, TGA, FT-IR, SEM, and LF-NMR techniques in combination. Results demonstrate that the addition of MgSO4 significantly influences the carbonation process and mechanical performance of LCC. Optimum performance was achieved after subjecting the paste prepared with LCC at a concentration of 0.5mol/L MgSO4 to a carbonation period lasting 24h. This resulted in a notable increase in compressive strength by approximately 28% (145MPa) compared to control samples along with an observed enhancement in CO2 uptake by around 4%. Microstructural analysis reveals that the inclusion of MgSO4 promoted the formation of more stable carbonate phases such as Mg-calcite and vaterite while also enhancing silica gel polymerization within the matrix structure of LCC materials. Additionally, it was found excessive concentrations (>1mol/L) of MgSO4 led to decreased carbonation efficiency and reduced strength due to gypsum formation as well as limited pore water availability. This study provides valuable insights into optimizing the carbonation process of LCC materials while demonstrating the potential efficacy of MgSO4 as an effective additive for enhancing the performance of low-carbon CO2-sequestering cementitious materials.

A protein fitness predictive framework based on feature combination and intelligent searching.

Machine learning (ML) constructs predictive models by understanding the relationship between protein sequences and their functions, enabling efficient identification of protein sequences with high fitness values without falling into local optima, like directional evolution. However, how to extract the most pertinent functional feature information from a limited number of protein sequences is vital for optimizing the performance of ML models. Here, we propose scut_ProFP (Protein Fitness Predictor), a predictive framework that integrates feature combination and feature selection techniques. Feature combination offers comprehensive sequence information, while feature selection searches for the most beneficial features to enhance model performance, enabling accurate sequence-to-function mapping. Compared to similar frameworks, scut_ProFP demonstrates superior performance and is also competitive with more complex deep learning models-ECNet, EVmutation, and UniRep. In addition, scut_ProFP enables generalization from low-order mutants to high-order mutants. Finally, we utilized scut_ProFP to simulate the engineering of the fluorescent protein CreiLOV and highly enriched mutants with high fluorescence based on only a small number of low-fluorescence mutants. Essentially, the developed method is advantageous for ML in protein engineering, providing an effective approach to data-driven protein engineering. The code and datasets for scut_ProFP are available at https://github.com/Zhang66-star/scut_ProFP.

Application of Z-number based fuzzy MCDM in solar power plant location selection problem in Spatial planning

In order to achieve sustainable energy consumption and development goals, it is of great importance to find suitable locations for the construction of solar power plants. In this study, Geographic Information System (GIS) and Z-Number iteration of Fuzzy Logarithm Additive Weights Methodology (F-LMAW), a recently adopted Multi-Criteria Decision Making Analysis (MCDA) technique, are used to identify the best locations for solar power plant construction in Mersin province. Nineteen criteria were selected for the study and their relative weights and usefulness in ranking the solar power plant locations were estimated. The Weighted Linear Combination (WLC) technique was used to determine the suitability index for solar power plant siting in the study area. According to the analysis made by taking into account the expert opinions for the site selection of solar power plants, the solar radiation criterion was the most important criterion with a weight value of 0,0664, while the distance from the river criterion was the least important criterion with a weight value of 0,0265. A potential suitability map for the solar power plant was produced with the suitability index values. According to the suitability index values, the study area exhibited suitability degrees for solar power plant siting ranging from “suitable (0,0038 %)” to “moderately suitable (0,0034 %)” and “very slightly suitable (0,0033 %)”. Silifke and Mut regions are considered as good locations for solar power plants in Mersin province. The robustness of the proposed technique was determined by sensitivity analysis.

Synergistic effects of gadolinium oxide into the matrix of zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) for supercapacitor applications

In this study, we synthesized ZIF-8, ZIF-67, Gd₀.₀₁/ZIF-8, & Gd₀.₀₁/ZIF-67 electrodes using the direct combination technique. Both electrodes are being used for energy storage devices. We extensively evaluated these nanocomposites using a variety of electrochemical methods, including retention analysis, galvanostatic charge-discharge (GCD), cyclic voltammetry (CV), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). ZIF-8 exhibits a wide band gap of approximately 2.58 eV, suggesting its main absorption is of UV light. The peaks in the absorbance spectrum vary slightly in wavelength due to the presence of different metal centers. Peaks between 1400-1600 cm⁻1 indicate C–N stretching vibrations from the imidazolate linkers. Peaks between 1600-1700 cm⁻1 are associated with C=C stretching vibrations. ZIF-8 exhibits well-defined peaks in its XRD pattern, indicating a high level of crystallinity. Peaks can be observed at specific 2θ values, typically at 22.09°, 26.62°, 38.49°, and 47.27°, which correspond to the (110), (200), (211), and (220) planes. The calculated specific capacitances for ZIF-8 and ZIF-67 are 223.95 and 255.20 F/g. For Gd0.01/ZIF-8, & Gd0.01/ZIF-67 specific capacitances are 575.00 and 587.50 F/g. The ZIF-8, ZIF-67, Gd0.01/ZIF-8, & Gd0.01/ZIF-67 electrodes exhibited specific capacitances of (78.30, 192.59, 342.57, and 1164) F/g at current densities of 1 A/g from the GCD calculation. The retention plot of ZIF-8, ZIF-67, Gd0.01/ZIF-8, & Gd0.01/ZIF-67 electrode shows efficiency of 71%, 71%, 105% and 75%, respectively, indicating their suitability for supercapacitor applications.

Effect of photobiomodulation and corticopuncture methods on tooth displacement and gene expression: animal study.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), Peroxiredoxin 1 (PRX1), glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1) and type I collagen (COL1) and the rate of tooth movement comparing 3 accelerated tooth movement (ATM) methods: Corticopuncture (CP), photobiomodulation (PBM) and the combined technique (CP + PBM) on days 1, 3, 7 and 14. Orthodontic tooth movement was induced in 24 male Wistar rats. CP procedure included three perforations: two in the palate and one mesial to the molars. GaAlAs diode laser irradiation was performed on days 0, 2, 4 and 6, totaling 4 irradiations. 14 days (810nm, 100 mW, 15s). Gingival tissue was collected from the cervical area of both first molars and qPCR was performed to isolate and quantify mRNA levels. All ATM groups showed increased tooth displacement compared to control after 14 days (20% for PBM; 40% for CP and 60% for CP + PBM). PBM showed higher VEGF expression on days 1,3 and 7 followed by CP and CP + PBM. PRX1 levels increased on days 1 and 3 in PBM and CP + PBM. GLUT1 increased on day 3 in all groups. No difference was found on levels of VEGF, PRX1 and GLUT1 among the groups on day 14, except for COL1 which increased significantly in PBM group. All ATM methods showed higher expression of all of VEGF, PRX1, GLUT1, COL1 than control group. PBM and CP + PBM groups had more expression related to angiogenesis, glucose uptake, oxidative stress and collagen synthesis.

Fabrication of superhydrophobic transparent coatings prepared by spraying dual-sized silica particles

Abstract Photovoltaic modules exposed to severe wind and sand conditions over extended periods often accumulate dust, significantly impacting their power generation efficiency. Superhydrophobic self-cleaning coatings present a promising solution to mitigate this issue. In this study, a SiO2/PU coating was applied to glass substrates using a combined sol-gel spraying technique. The sol system comprised a mixture of SiO2 particles with diameters of 20 nm and 200 nm, enabling the construction of a micro-nano structure that enhances surface hydrophobicity. The SiO2/PU coatings prepared with mixed particle sizes demonstrated significant improvements in contact angle, rolling angle, self-cleaning, and antifouling properties compared to those made with a single particle size, achieving a water contact angle of 164.52°. Furthermore, the prepared SiO2/PU coatings possess excellent stability and transmittance. It is anticipated that this superhydrophobic SiO2/PU coating will be a candidate for anti- dust applications in photovoltaic modules.

FIRST EXPERIENCE WITH COMBINED CYCLOPHOTOCOAGULATION TECHNIQUE USING TRANSILLUMINATION

Relevance: сurrently, micropulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation is widely used for the treatment of refractory glaucoma. It has a high safety profile and can be applied to eyes with high visual potential. Continuous-wave cyclophotocoagulation has a more pronounced hypotensive effect; however, it is accompanied by a significant number of complications. During transscleral cyclophotocoagulation, it is suggested to use a standard position for the sensor, though the position of the ciliary processes may vary.Purpose: to analyze the effectiveness and safety of the combined cyclophotocoagulation technique using transillumination.Materials and Methods: the study included 22 patients (22 eyes) who underwent combined cyclophotocoagulation with transillumination. The observation period was 6 months, with control examinations conducted at 1, 3, and 6 months. At each visit, refractokeratometry, visual acuity assessment, ultrasound examination (B-scan), tonometry using the Maklakov method were performed. There was one case of postoperative uveitis in the form of iridocyclitisResults: after six months, intraocular pressure decreased by 45% from the baseline level-from 35.5 (34–38.5) mm Hg to 20 (20–21) mm Hg. The number of hypotensive therapy drops was also reduced-from 7 (5.75–7) to 4 (3.25–4) drops per day.Conclusion: combined cyclophotocoagulation with transscleral transillumination demonstrated a stable hypotensive effect over 6 months, with no significant complications such as prolonged hypotony, phthisis bulbi, or persistent refractory uveitis, which are commonly seen with continuous-wave cyclophotocoagulation. Thus, this technique may become an effective alternative to standard methods of cyclophotocoagulation.

METHOD OF USING SODIUM HYALURONATR FOR THE CORRECTION OF LAGOPHTHALMOS AND ITS COMPLICATIONS

A method for minimally invasive correction of lagophthalmos and its complications has been developed. Subcutaneous injections of low-molecular and high-molecular sodium hyaluronate (LM-NaH and HM-NaH) forms with different concentrations of the active substance have been proposed as a new method. The experiment has proven the maximum efficiency of 2% high-molecular sodium hyaluronate in maintaining the shape and width of the palpebral fissure (the effect lasts for 4 weeks). Low-molecular sodium hyaluronate form had the best effect on the condition of the ocular surface. These properties can be explained by the large size of high-molecular sodium hyaluronate molecules and the viscosity of the preparation, which allows the substance to be retained in the thickness of the eyelids for a long time, but does not allow it to penetrate the hematophthalmic barrier. The positive results of the experiment made it possible to use this method in clinical practice for patients with lagophthalmos. To date, one patient has been treated who suffered from facial nerve neuritis with subsequent development of lagophthalmos. A combined technique was used with simultaneous use of subcutaneous injections of 2% high-molecular and subconjunctival injections of 1% low-molecular sodium hyaluronate. After three procedures with an interval of 3 weeks between them, positive dynamics were noted in the form of improved closure of the palpebral fissure, an increase in the Schirmer test, and the absence of complaints from the cornea. Thus, we can talk about the effectiveness of this minimally invasive technique for patients with lagophthalmos and its complications with a one-time impact on the maximum possible number of pathogenesis links.

Direct Aspiration Versus Combined Technique for Anterior Distal, Medium Vessel Occlusions Stroke: The JET Distal Vessel Occlusion Study.

The optimal mechanical thrombectomy technique for distal, medium vessel occlusion (DMVO) stroke remains unknown. We aimed to compare the safety and efficacy of 2 thrombectomy first-line approaches, direct aspiration (DA), and combined technique (CT) in patients with DMVOs. We conducted a retrospective review of a prospectively collected multicenter database of patients with DMVOs (at or distal to M2 and A1), who underwent mechanical thrombectomy with JET D reperfusion catheters between January 2020 and December 2021. The primary end point was the rate of first-pass complete recanalization, defined as modified treatment in cerebral infarction (mTICI) 3. The hemorrhagic complications, the 90 days functional independence rate (modified Rankin Scale 0-2), and mortality were also evaluated. A total of 171 consecutive patients were enrolled (95 in DA and 76 in CT cohort). The 2 groups had comparable demographics and baseline characteristics. The DA group had a higher rate of first-pass effect (40.0% vs 10.5%, P < .001), final mTICI 2b-3 (89.5% vs 71.1%, P = .003) and final mTICI 3 (58.9% vs 28.9%, P < .001), shorter groin to reperfusion time (65 ± 43 min vs 101 ± 60 min, P < .001), and higher rate of 90-day functional independence (63.7% vs 36.1%; P = .001) compared with the CT group. There were no significant differences in hemorrhagic complications between the 2 groups. The DA group showed a lower rate of 90-day mortality (9.9% vs 27.8%; P = .004). In patients with DMVOs, DA with a distal dedicated reperfusion catheter appears to demonstrate better safety and efficacy when compared with the CT using the same catheter.

Gastrointestinal Helminth Infections in Dogs in Sheep and Goat Farms in Greece: Prevalence, Involvement of Wild Canid Predators and Use of Anthelmintics

The objectives of the present work were the investigation of gastrointestinal parasitic infections in dogs in small ruminant farms in Greece, the elucidation of potential predictors for these infections and the description of practices related to administration of anthelmintics to dogs. This study was carried out in 444 small ruminant farms in Greece. Faecal samples were collected directly from the rectum of the dogs in the farms. The samples were processed by means of conventional parasitological techniques, specifically, a combined sedimentation flotation technique. There were dogs in 92.8% of the farms, with a median number of four dogs per farm. The following variables were associated with the presence of dogs in the farms: the presence of wild mammal predators near the farms, the increased daily period of farmers’ presence at the farm, goats as the livestock species at the farm and the management system applied in the farm. Helminth eggs were detected in samples from 72.6% of the farms. The main helminth eggs detected were those of hookworms (Uncinaria/Ancylostoma) and Toxocara canis, in 68.6% and 51.3% of the farms, respectively. In our multivariable analyses, an association emerged between the presence of canid predators near a farm and the detection of these helminths in faecal samples: in 76% and 60% of the samples, respectively, versus in 58% and 39% of the samples from farms with no canid presence. Of farmers with dogs, 16.0% reported that they omitted the administration of anthelmintics to the animals. In multivariable analysis, the semi-extensive or extensive management system applied in the farm, the lower annual milk production per animal and the lack of collaboration with a veterinary practice were the significant predictors for the omission of anthelmintic administration to the farm dogs. There was also a clear association in the omission of anthelmintic administration to the dogs and to the livestock on the farm. The most frequently administered anthelmintic was praziquantel, which was used in 93.6% of the farms.

Superconvergence analysis of a low order expanded conforming mixed finite element method for the extended Fisher–Kolmogorov equation

This paper is devoted to the superconvergence analysis of a low order expanded conforming mixed finite element method(MFEM) for the extended Fisher–Kolmogorov equation. Both semi-discrete and linearized backward Euler fully-discrete schemes are analyzed with bilinear and Nédéleć elements. The present work has two main contributions: One is that some a priori bounds of the approximations are derived, which lead to the unique solvability of the semi-discrete scheme and make the nonlinear term can be dealt with efficiently. By such a way, the superclose properties and superconvergence results can be derived through the high accuracy results of the above two elements and the interpolated postprocessing technique, respectively. The other one is that a novel splitting technique is utilized to deal with the nonlinear term, which can avoid the use of popular error splitting technique and the restrictions between the time step size and mesh size. Besides, the combination technique of interpolation and projection operators also plays an important role in the superclose and superconvergence analysis. Finally, some numerical results are provided to show the validity of the theoretical analysis.

Myoring implantation with and without cross-linking: Comparative study of pre and postoperative visual outcomes and pentacam indices.

Comparing the visual, topographic, and aberrometric changes following Myoring implantation alone or combined with corneal cross-linking (CXL). This retrospective, comparative study was conducted on keratoconus (KC) patients with moderate, central KC who sought medical advice at Watany Eye Hospital, Cairo, Egypt. Group 1 patients performed femtolaser-assisted Myoring implantation, while group 2 patients performed Myoring implantation with CXL. Group 1 included 44 eyes, and group 2 comprised 40 eyes. The mean follow-up interval was 2.34 years ± 2.25. There was a significant postoperative improvement in subjective refraction for both groups. Patients of group 1 showed statistically significant reductions in postoperative topographic astigmatism, K readings, Index of Surface Variance, horizontal coma, and spherical aberrations. In contrast, patients of group 2 only showed statistically significant improvements in K readings and horizontal coma. Patients of group 1 developed higher improvements in topographic astigmatism and K max compared to group 2. Although the combined technique was non-inferior to implanting the Myoring alone regarding visual, refractive, and keratometric improvements, Myoring implantation alone showed better results, mainly in topographic astigmatism. Hence, our study leans in favor of Myoring implantation without the need for additional CXL.

Combined spinal-epidural vs. dural puncture epidural techniques for labour analgesia: a randomised controlled trial.

The dural puncture epidural technique is a modification of the combined spinal-epidural technique. Data comparing the two techniques are limited. We performed this randomised study to compare the quality of labour analgesia following initiation of analgesia with the dural puncture epidural vs. the combined spinal-epidural technique. Term parturients requesting labour epidural analgesia were allocated randomly to receive either dural puncture epidural or combined spinal-epidural. Analgesia was initiated with 2 mg intrathecal bupivacaine and 10 μg fentanyl in parturients allocated to the combined spinal-epidural group and with 20 ml ropivacaine 0.1% with 2 μg.ml-1 fentanyl in parturients allocated to the dural puncture epidural group. Analgesia was maintained using patient-controlled epidural analgesia with programmed intermittent epidural boluses. The primary outcome of the study was the quality of labour analgesia, which was defined by a composite of five components: asymmetric block after 30 min of initiation (difference in sensory level of more than two dermatomes); epidural top-up interventions; catheter adjustment; catheter replacement; and failed conversion to neuraxial anaesthesia for caesarean delivery, requiring general anaesthesia or replacement of the neuraxial block. One hundred parturients were included in the analysis (48 combined spinal-epidural, 52 dural puncture epidural). There were no significant differences between the two groups in the primary composite outcome of quality of analgesia (33% in the combined spinal-epidural group vs. 25% in the dural puncture epidural group), risk ratio (95%CI) 0.75 (0.40-1.39); p = 0.486. Median (IQR [range]) pain scores at 15 min were significantly lower in patients allocated to the combined spinal-epidural group compared with the dural puncture epidural group (0 (0-1[0-8]) vs. 1 (0-4 [0-10]); p = 0.018). There were no significant differences in the quality of labour analgesia following initiation of a combined spinal-epidural compared with a dural puncture epidural technique.

Study on instability mechanisms and control of coal pillar spalling and coal crumbs leakage during working face crossing faults

The stability of coal pillars in fault areas is crucial for ensuring the safe passage of working faces. Based on field observations, frequent coal pillar spalling and substantial tectonic coal crumbs leakage, as well as tilting of hydraulic supports, are observed when working faces transition from primary coal to tectonic coal. To analyze the instability mechanisms behind these phenomena, this paper establishes a mechanical model of coal pillars in fault areas and analyzes the distribution of tectonic stresses and factors affecting the stability of coal pillars. The results indicate that horizontal tectonic stress adheres to an exponential function dependent on the angle factor, where (k0) is a parameter associated with the friction angle of the coal body, the dip angle of the fault, and the friction angle of the fault plane. The stability of coal pillars is influenced by factors such as roof and floor pressures, coal pillar integrity, mining height, and shield support force, with coal pillar integrity being the most critical. To ensure the smooth passage of working faces through faults, this study proposes a combined control technique of “inclined mining” and “grouting,” including reducing mining heights, adjusting the slope of working face advancement, and pre-grouting of coal pillars. Industrial experiments conducted on-site have shown improved integrity of tectonic coal, enabling the working face to pass through faults smoothly and significantly increasing production efficiency.

Geoelectrical resistivity and geochemistry monitoring of landfill leachates due to the seasonal variations and the implications on groundwater systems and public health

Understanding the seasonal variations in the landfill leachate plumes (LLPs) properties and complex connections between concentrations of leachate variability, and its environment is essential for environmental and public health management. This study explores the combined electrical resistivity (ER) data and physiochemical water analysis (PWA) coupled with the excavations to monitor the landfill physiochemical properties (LPPs) due to seasonal variations and their implications on environmental vital organs and public health. The variations in ER and LLP distributions across the overburdened top layer due to seasonal changes were examined. The low ER contrasts were encountered within the ranges of 1.5 Ωm – 19.0 Ωm which was mapped as LLP accumulated zones within the landfill, while high ER values varied between 15 Ωm – 260 Ωm off-the landfill extending beyond 15 m. The results of the PWA indicate high concentrations of heavy metals (HMs) such as iron (Fe), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), and cadmium (Cd) decreasing with wet seasons and increasing with dry seasons. The overall high concentration of HMs in the LLPs was indeed varied between 9.81 ± 2.15–19.07 ± 3.68, while the electrical conductivity (EC) significantly increased from 17.99 ± 1.92 mg/L to 24.87 ± 3.31 mg/L towards the wet season. The increment and decrement encountered in the LPPs are due to seasonal variation and dilution. The order of decrement in the HMs in the LLPs treads as follows EC > Fe > Zn > Pb > Cd in values, respectively. The near-surface EC aligned well with the ER results and boundaries of the waste disposal site, which was verified by the soil excavations. In addition, the ER method was extended beyond the landfill for adequate monitoring, identifying the subsurface layers, conductive shallow zones mapped as the zones of LLP accumulation, resistive deep and shallow zones mapped as the consolidated lateritic topsoil and crystalline basement rocks in some cases, and a dipping conductive lineament zones identified as fracture zones just before the crystalline basement. In conclusion, the ER technique reveals the vertical and horizontal extents of the LLP escapade, the PWA expressed the concentrations of HMs in the LLPs, heightening the implications on the environmental and human health. Finally, the combined techniques deployed for monitoring the physiochemical properties of LLPs due to seasonal variation and the impacts on the integrity of groundwater quality systems and public health inform sustainable waste management practices, which contributes significantly to the protection of groundwater resources and the development of effective strategies to safeguard groundwater systems and public health for present and future generations.

Retrolabyrinthine approach to the lateral skull base: The value of preoperative temporal bone CT analysis

PurposeThe most used neurosurgical approach to reach cerebellar-pontine angle is the retrosigmoid route. This article describes the presigmoid approach which requires excellent knowledge of the labyrinthine block together with quantitative analysis of temporal bone CT. MethodsCT-based quantitative measurements were obtained in patients undergoing vestibular neurectomy with a presigmoid approach. Eighteen patients were enrolled, and five measures were taken: Trautmann’s area, the petro-clival angle, presigmoid dura length and its angle. The relationship between these measurements and hospitalization days, operating times, and complications was explored. ResultsThe posterior semicircilar canal (PSC)-sigmoid sinus (SS) distance, presigmoid dura- internal auditory canal (IAC)-PSC angle, and duration of surgery are predictors of complications. Specifically, a PSC-sigmoid sinus distance <11 mm, a dura presig-IAC-PSC angle <14 are associated with the highest risk of complications. ConclusionPreoperative temporal bone CT scan can guide the surgeon through the narrowest areas of the surgical approach. Trautmann’s triangle area and petro-clival angle reduction are challenging and can be faced with combined microscopic-endoscopic technique, and with optics angulation-rotation. The retrolabyrinthine approach can enable hearing preservation and minimal cerebellar retraction.

Application of Polymarker Assistant External Alar Wedge Excision Combined With Internal Vestibular Floor Excision in Nasal Alar Reduction

Background: There are numerous techniques available to modify nasal alar. The combined alar base excision technique can narrow the nasal base and correct excessive alar flare at the same time. Despite its effectiveness, this procedure involves the removal of the skin of the nasal alar and the nasal mucosa, making the operation more challenging and raising the risk of postoperative asymmetry complications. Objectives: The purpose of this study is to develop a method of polymarker to assist the operation design to improve the precision of the operation and to avoid the complications discussed above. Methods: The authors conducted a retrospective review of patients undergoing nasal alar reduction using polymarker assistant external alar wedge excision combined with internal vestibular floor excision by a senior surgeon from January 2021 to April 2023. The postoperative appearance was evaluated in stratification by the patients during revisits using a VAS questionnaire. Results: The nasal alar was reduced with polymarker assistant external alar wedge excision combined with internal vestibular floor excision on 30 female patients ranging from 20 to 45 years of age, 10 of which were performed simultaneously with rib cartilage–related rhinoplasty. In all cases, the nasal alar was reduced without distortion. During the postoperative period, all the effects of the surgery were seen to persist for a lengthy period of time, and the patients were generally satisfied with the results.

Combined Surgical Technique of Hyperselective and Partial Motor Neurectomies for Spastic Equinus, Equinovarus, and Claw Toe Deformities.

Patients with spastic equinus, equinovarus, and claw toe deformities can experience marked pain and functional limitations in the ability to weight-bear comfortably, ambulate efficiently, or mobilize independently. Seen in 80% of patients with cerebral palsy and 18% of patients with stroke (1, 2), the spastic foot and ankle deformities, and its secondary sequelae of static joint contractures, osseous changes, and chronic pain, are unfortunately common. Adult and pediatric patients undergoing combined hyperselective and selective partial motor neurectomies for varus or claw toe deformities were reviewed. Patient demographics and complications were recorded. Pre- and postoperative Modified Ashworth Scale scores were compared. Twenty-three patients (16 adults and seven pediatric) met inclusion criteria and were included in analysis. At early 6-month follow-up, the mean preoperative Modified Ashworth Score of 2.8 in adult patients and 3.0 in pediatric patients decreased to 0.6 postoperatively. Complications in three adult patients included one patient with temporary dysesthesias to the plantar foot, one with a popliteal abscess requiring incision and drainage, and one superficial wound dehiscence that was managed conservatively. A combined technique of hyperselective and partial motor neurectomies are effective in decreasing tone in the correction of spastic foot and ankle deformities in both adult and pediatric patients in short-term 6-month follow-up.

Some combined techniques of spectral conjugate gradient methods with applications to robotic and image restoration models

Some combined techniques of spectral conjugate gradient methods with applications to robotic and image restoration models

Evaluation of Emulsification Techniques to Optimize the Properties of Chalcone Nanoemulsions for Antifungal Applications

Background/Objectives: Nanoemulsions (NEs) possess properties that enhance the solubility, bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy of drugs. Chalcones are compounds known for their antifungal properties. In this study, we evaluated different emulsification techniques to create alginate nanoemulsions containing chalcone (1E,4E)-1,5-bis (4-methoxyphenyl) penta-1,4-dien-3-one (DB4OCH3). Our goal was to develop an antifungal formulation targeting Candida albicans strains. Methods: Ultrasound and ultrasound combined with high-speed homogenization techniques were used to prepare alginate-stabilized nanoemulsions. Particle size, zeta potential and encapsulation efficiency were evaluated. Additionally, in vitro release studies were conducted. Results: The combined emulsification technique produced stable nanoparticles with high encapsulation efficiency and antifungal activity, with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 8.75 μg/mL for the nanoemulsions compared to 312 µg/mL for free DB4OCH3. NEs’ effectiveness can be attributed to their ability to form nanodroplets efficiently, facilitating the solubilization of the chalcone in the oily phase. The particle size varied between 195.70 ± 2.69 and 243.40 ± 4.49 nm, with an increase in chalcone concentration leading to larger particle sizes. The zeta potential showed values from −91.77 ± 5.58 to −76.90 ± 4.44 mV. The UHS-7 sample exhibited an encapsulation efficiency of 92.10% ± 0.77, with a controlled in vitro release of 83% after 34 h. Molecular docking simulations showed that the aromatic nature of DB4OCH3 resulted in the formation of apolar interactions with aromatic residues located in the active site of the TMK, as observed in their respective co-crystallized inhibitors, within an affinity energy range that enables optimum specificity of the ligand for these two pathways. Pharmacokinetic analyses indicated high passive cell permeability and low hepatic clearance, and phase I metabolism reduces its oral bioavailability and metabolic stability, suggesting a promising active ingredient as an oral drug with control of the daily oral dose administered. Conclusions: The combined nanoemulsification technique led to the formation of finely dispersed nanodroplets that favored the solubilization of the chalcone in the oil phase, which led to a better performance in the antifungal properties. DB4OCH3 shows promise as an oral drug with controlled dosing.