Concentration Factor Research Articles

Partitioning behavior and crystallization of urea, salts and water during stepwise dehydration of acidified human urine by evaporation.

This study evaluated the stepwise evaporative concentration of acidified human urine, focusing on dehydration dynamics, crystallization sequence, and the partitioning of major constituents between liquid and solid phases. Unhydrolyzed urine, stabilized with sulfuric acid, was concentrated by convective evaporation, achieving concentration factors (CF) of up to 30 at 20°C and 43 at 70°C. Water activity (aw) was a reliable indicator for monitoring urine dehydration progress, with a critical threshold of 0.3 aw identified at CF 43, indicating tightly bound residual moisture which prevented further urine dehydration. No detectable losses of urea, major cations, or anions were observed throughout the treatment, suggesting that previous findings on nutrient loss were likely affected by analytical limitations as opposed to chemical degradation. Reconstitution to CF 1, followed by colorimetric analysis, was effective in determining nutrient content in viscous and solidified urine samples. At CFs above 30, over 80% of urea, ammonium, and orthophosphate remained in the liquid phase, whereas sulphate, chloride, and potassium preferentially crystallized, forming compounds such as gypsum, syngenite, and biphosphammite. These findings demonstrate that adjusting dehydration conditions enables the nutrient profile of urine-derived fertilizers to be tailored to meet specific agricultural or environmental requirements. Overall, this study shows that stepwise evaporation-crystallization of acidified human urine can effectively produce multi-nutrient fertilizers with customizable nutrient compositions, thus enhancing targeted nutrient recirculation in agriculture.

Vertical and horizontal bone loss following alveolar socket preservation using bone grafts and autologous platelet concentrates vs bone grafts alone: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundSocket preservation is a proactive approach that limits bone loss after tooth extraction to maintain adequate bone volume, height and width. Many methods have proven effective in achieving socket preservation, including using various bone grafts and autologous platelet concentrates (APCs). Combining these two methods may lead to improved results in socket preservation and patient outcomes.AimsTo compare the combined use of APCs and bone grafts in socket preservation, with the use of bone grafts alone. Primary outcomes were radiographic vertical bone loss (VBL) and horizontal bone loss (HBL).MethodsA search on Pubmed, Scopus, Embase and Google Scholar databases was conducted to identify human studies using APCs in extraction sockets between January 2014 and August 2024. The inclusion criteria involved comparative human studies ranging from evidence levels II to III (Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine Levels of Evidence). For assessing bias in the included studies, the Cochrane Risk of Bias tools were used. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach was used to determine the quality of evidence available.ResultsA total of five randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were included in the analysis. Studies included the use of platelet rich fibrin (PRF), injectable platelet rich fibrin (i-PRF), advanced platelet rich fibrin (A-PRF), advanced platelet rich fibrin plus (A-PRF+) and concentrated growth factors (CGF). The risk of bias was judged high and moderate for two out of five RCTs. The analysis revealed a combined effect size for VBL reduction, with a standardized mean difference (SMD) of −0.83 (p < 0.001; 95% confidence interval (CI) = [−1.2, −0.57]; I² = 73.13%). For HBL reduction, the combined effect size was SMD = −0.72 (p < 0.001; 95% CI = [−1.08, −0.37]; I² = 68.34%). The overall evidence quality rating for the use of APCs in combination with bone grafts to reduce VBL during socket preservation was assessed as moderate, whereas to reduce HBL it was determined to be low.ConclusionThe current literature demonstrates the added benefits of APCs combined with bone grafts in alveolar socket preservation compared to bone grafts alone in reducing vertical and horizontal bone loss. However, based on the GRADE assessment, the quality of evidence was judged low-to-moderate. Further randomised clinical studies would increase the certainty of the evidence.

Preparation, characterization, and pesticide adsorption capacity of chitosan-magnetic graphene oxide nanoparticles with toxicological studies.

This study investigated magnetic graphene oxide nanoparticles (MGO-NPs) and functionalized with chitosan (CS-MGO-NPs) for removing florasulam, metalaxyl, and thiamethoxam pesticides from water. A comprehensive characterization employing Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), zeta potential measurements, XRD analysis, and surface area/porosity determinations confirmed the successful synthesis of the composites with the desired properties. Factorial experimental design was applied to identify the most significant factors of pesticide concentration, adsorbent amount, temperature, pH, agitation time, and ionic strength on the efficiency of removal of tested pesticides from water samples. CS-MGO-NPs exhibited superior removal efficiencies for all three pesticides compared to MGO-NPs. They achieved high removal rates for florasulam (average 92.94%) and metalaxyl (average 88.95%), while demonstrated moderate effectiveness against thiamethoxam (average 64.04%). Different kinetic and isotherm models described how well the nanoparticles adsorbed each pesticide. According to these models, the pseudo-first-order kinetic model interpreted well the adsorption of florasulam, and thiamethoxam onto CS-GO-NPs. While the pseudo-second-order kinetic model interpreted well the adsorption of metalaxyl. The Freundlich isotherm model gave the best fit with florasulam onto CS-GO-NPs. While the Langmuir isotherm model gave the best fit with metalaxyl and thiamethoxam. Finally, the toxicological studies of CS-MGO-NPs in rats were performed, and it was found negative effects at high doses, suggesting caution is needed for practical applications. Overall, this study shows promise for CS-MGO-NPs in water purification, but safety needs further investigation.

A Rhodamine-Based Ratiometric Fluorescent Sensor for Dual-Channel Visible and Near-Infrared Emission Detection of NAD(P)H in Living Cells and Fruit Fly Larvae.

The detection and dynamic monitoring of intracellular NAD(P)H concentrations are crucial for comprehending cellular metabolism, redox biology, and their roles in various physiological and pathological processes. To address this need, we introduce sensor A, a near-infrared ratiometric fluorescent sensor for real-time, quantitative imaging of NAD(P)H fluctuations in live cells. Sensor A combines a 3-quinolinium electron-deficient acceptor with a near-infrared rhodamine dye, offering high sensitivity and specificity for NAD(P)H with superior photophysical properties. In its unbound state, sensor A emits strongly at 650 nm and weakly at 465 nm upon 400 nm excitation. Upon binding to NAD(P)H, it shows a fluorescence increase at 465 nm and a decrease at 650 nm, enabling accurate ratiometric measurements. Sensor A also exhibits ratiometric upconversion fluorescence when excited at 800 or 810 nm, offering additional flexibility for different experimental setups. The sensor's response relies on the reduction of the 3-quinolinium acceptor by NAD(P)H, forming a 1,4-dihydroquinoline donor that enhances fluorescence at 465 nm and quenches the near-infrared emission at 650 nm through photoinduced electron transfer. This mechanism ensures high sensitivity and reliable quantification of NAD(P)H levels while minimizing interference from sensor concentration, excitation intensity, or environmental factors. Sensor A was validated in HeLa and MD-MB453 cells under various metabolic and pharmacological conditions, including glucose and maltose stimulation and treatments with chemotherapeutic agents. Co-localization with mitochondrial-specific dyes confirmed its mitochondrial targeting, enabling precise tracking of NAD(P)H fluctuations. In vivo imaging of Drosophila larvae under nutrient starvation or chemotherapeutic exposure revealed dose-dependent fluorescence responses, highlighting its potential for tracking NAD(P)H changes in live organisms. Sensor A represents a significant advancement in NAD(P)H imaging, providing a powerful tool for exploring cellular metabolism and redox biology in biomedical research.

Performance Evaluation of the Ge Discovery IQ PET/CT System According to the Nema NU2-2012 Standard

A PET/CT Scanner -Discovery IQ 5 ring. GE Medical system was installed at Evercare Hospital Dhaka. Total of 11252 BGO crystal elements are arranged in 5 circular rings providing 260 mm axial and 700 mm trans axial field of view. The aim of the test was to assess the performances of the PET/CT scanner GE-Discovery IQ 5 ring. Spatial resolution, Image Quality, and Sensitivity tests were carried out as per NEMA NU2-2012 Standard guidelines. Spatial resolution for radial, tangential and axial directions was carried out at (x,y): (0,1), (0,10), and (0,20) cm locations. Sensitivity was calculated from the activity concentration factor. Image reconstruction algorithm VPHD was used. The radial, tangential, and axial FWHM 4.2 mm, 4.74 mm, and 4.82 mm at 1 cm; 5.72 mm, 4.82 mm, and 4.57 mm at 10 cm off center; 8.17 mm, 4.85 mm, and 4.92 mm at 10 cm off center respectively. In NEMA image quality, the hot contrast recovery values for 10-13-17-22 mm spheres were 25.7- 50.3-56.1-69.7 % respectively and cold contrast recovery values for 28 mm and 37 mm spheres were 75.5 and 77.7 % respectively; the corresponding background variability values were 7.2-6.9-6.6-5.9-5.5-4.7 %. The lung error residual mean was 16 %. Overall, PET performances of the Discovery IQ whole body scanner were satisfactory and passed the entire NEMA NU2- 2012 acceptance test. Bangladesh Journal of Physics, Vol. 30, Issue 2, pp. 57–67, December 2023

Regenerative potential of concentrated growth factor compared to platelet-rich fibrin in treatment of necrotic mature teeth: a randomized clinical trial

AimThis study aimed to compare the potential of two regenerative endodontic procedures, platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) and concentrated growth factor (CGF), in the treatment of mature permanent teeth with necrotic pulps and periapical radiolucency.MethodsThis randomized clinical trial was written according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Randomized Trials in Endodontics 2020 guidelines. The study was registered in the Clinical Trials Registry (ClinicalTrials.gov) with identifier number NCT06227533. Eighteen patients with mature necrotic maxillary incisors with periapical lesions were randomly divided into two groups, one group received treatment with PRF (n = 9), while the other received CGF (n = 9). Radiographs were taken at the beginning, 6 and 12 months after treatment, and confirmed with CBCT to assess periradicular healing. An electric pulp tester and cold test were used to determine whether pulp sensibility had been regained during the follow-up period. The statistical analysis used an independent t-test to compare different groups. Repeated measures ANOVA to compare pre-operative, after 6 months, and after 1 year in the same group.ResultsBoth groups experienced a considerable increase in healing at 6 and 12 months compared to baseline, with no significant differences seen regarding lesion size (p-value was 0.34) and relative bone density (p-value was 0.27). There was no substantial change in the tooth sensibility reading between both groups at 6 months (p-value = 0.34), After 1 year, both groups exhibited identical patterns.ConclusionRevascularization using PRF or CGF successfully preserved mature teeth with necrotic pulps.

Enhancing urban air quality prediction using time-based-spatial forecasting framework.

Air quality forecasting plays a pivotal role in environmental management, public health and urban planning. This research presents a comprehensive approach for forecasting the Air Quality Index (AQI). The proposed Time-Based-Spatial (TBS) forecasting framework is integrated with spatial and temporal information using machine learning techniques on data collected from a wide range of cities. The TBS employs Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) to capture spatial dependencies based on normalized latitude and longitude coordinates of the cities. Simultaneously, time series model, specifically the ARIMA (AutoRegressive Integrated Moving Average)was employed to capture temporal dependencies using pollutant concentration readings over time. The dataset included information such as date, time, pollutant concentrations and AQI was further preprocessed and divided into training and testing sets. The CNN was configured to utilize the normalized latitude and longitude grid, while the ARIMA model concurrently processed the pollutant concentrations. The model was trained on the training dataset, and a 6hour forecast is generated for each test instance. The outcomes demonstrate the TBS model's ability to accurately predict AQI values. The integration of CNNs and time series model allowed for an clearer and deeper understanding of geographical and pollutant concentration factors that contribute to air quality variations.

The Role of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) in Enhancing IVF Success in Women With Ovarian Insufficiency: A Cohort Study

- Ovarian insufficiency is a significant cause of infertility in women, with limited effective treatment options. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), rich in concentrated growth factors, has shown regenerative potential in various medical fields. However, its efficacy as an adjunct in infertility treatment, particularly in women with ovarian insufficiency, remains unclear. This study investigates whether PRP administration improves the success of IVF cycles in this specific population. This cohort study followed women with ovarian insufficiency undergoing IVF at a fertility center. Participants were divided into two groups: the intervention group, which received PRP alongside the standard IVF protocol, and the control group, which received only the standard protocol. Data collected included patient demographics, hormonal levels, number and quality of retrieved oocytes, fertilization rates, embryo quality, and pregnancy outcomes. The primary outcome was IVF success, defined by clinical pregnancy rates. Secondary outcomes included hormonal changes, oocyte quality, and embryo development. Statistical analysis utilized descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and t-tests to compare outcomes between groups. PRP administration led to significant reductions in FSH levels (P&lt;0.001) and marked increases in AMH levels and antral follicle count (AFC) (P=0.001 and P&lt;0.001, respectively). The number of oocytes, mature MII oocytes, and Grade A embryos also improved significantly (P ranging from 0.004 to 0.017). Although the increase in Grade B embryos was not statistically significant, it was higher post-PRP. Chemical pregnancies occurred in 25% of participants, with 20.83% resulting in clinical pregnancies, including 2.1% spontaneous pregnancies. PRP significantly enhanced ovarian reserve markers (FSH, AMH, AFC), oocyte quality, and embryo development, translating into improved fertility outcomes. The findings suggest that with longer follow-up and larger sample sizes, PRP could be validated as a promising adjunctive therapy for women with ovarian insufficiency undergoing IVF. These results align with prior research and highlight PRP’s potential to advance reproductive outcomes in this challenging patient population.

L-shape technique with concentrated growth factor for horizontal bone defects in the maxillary anterior region: a clinical and radiographic study.

To study the clinical effect of the L-shape technique combined with concentrated growth factor on the horizontal bone defects of maxillary anterior teeth. Twenty-five implants from 25 patients who underwent single maxillary anterior tooth implantation with simultaneous bone grafting were selected as the study subjects. Based on the bone grafting techniques, the patients were divided into a test group (L-shaped technique with guided bone regeneration combined with concentrated growth factor, 11 cases) and a control group (traditional guided bone regeneration combined with concentrated growth factor, 14 cases). The early discomfort and wound healing conditions in the two groups at two weeks after surgery were compared. The horizontal bone thickness, vertical bone thickness, and grayscale values in the augmentation area were measured immediately postsurgery and six months after surgery. Implant stability, hard tissue resorption within six months, and grayscale values were compared between the two groups. Differences in early discomfort, wound healing, implant stability, and grayscale values between the two groups were not statistically significant (P>0.05). Vertical bone thickness in the test group was significantly better than that in the control group at six months after surgery (P<0.05). The variation in horizontal bone thickness in the test group was significantly higher than that in the control group (P<0.05). The application of the L-shape technique with concentrated growth factor for horizontal bone defects in the anterior maxillary area yielded satisfactory short-term results in terms of bone augmentation, early discomfort, wound healing, and implant stability at six months after surgery.

A parametric study of polymer-enhanced CO2 injection in a light-oil reservoir using full-physics simulation

This study aims to assess the performance of polymer-enhanced CO2 injection in a light-oil reservoir under various reservoir geometries, parameters, and polymer properties. We also introduce several injection techniques: Polymer-Alternating-Gas (PAG) injection and co-injection of CO2 with water/polymer. This study employs full-physics compositional and polymer simulation to construct mechanistic models to investigate the efficiency of each EOR method. The injection strategies are water, polymer, CO2, Water-Alternating-Gas (WAG), PAG, and co-injection of CO2 and water/polymer. These parametric studies focus on reservoir geometries (formation dip angle), reservoir properties (heterogeneity and permeability), polymer properties, WAG parameters, and CO2 miscibility. For a 20-meter reservoir without dipping, the co-injection of CO2 with polymer and PAG are shown to recover 10% and 8% more oil than WAG-CO2, respectively. Adding polymer helps minimize gravity segregation, leading to a more uniform miscible flood front and oil displacement. These injection techniques are promising even in reservoirs with vertical heterogeneity. For a reservoir with a 10° dip angle, CO2 injection from the updip location creates a stable flood front, yielding high oil recovery. The sensitivity analysis reveals that polymer properties such as concentration and permeability reduction factor must be high enough to stabilize the displacement flood front, but not so high as to hinder injectivity. From the study of miscibility level, PAG and co-injection of CO2 with polymer methods are effective at miscible conditions. The findings of this study help the initial screening of existing and new CO2-EOR injection techniques and the design of EOR injection in light oil reservoirs.

Molecular mechanisms of libido influencing semen quality in geese through the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular-external genitalia axis.

Libido plays a crucial role in influencing semen quality, yet the underlying regulatory mechanisms remain unclear. As a central axis in male goose reproduction, the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular-external genitalia (HPTE) axis may contribute to the regulation of this process. In this study, we established a rating scale for goose libido based on average number of massages to erection (ANM) and the erection type, and evaluated semen quality across the entire flock. Correlation analyses showed that ANM was negatively correlated with sperm concentration (SC), acrosome integrity (AI), and semen quality factor (SQF), while positively correlated with morphological abnormal sperm (MAS) (P < 0.01). A comparison of semen quality and testicular histology between high libido (HG) and low libido (LG) groups showed that SC and SQF were significantly higher and MAS was lower in HG (P < 0.05). The lumen diameter of seminiferous tubules (LD) (P < 0.01) and the number of Sertoli cells (Sc) (P < 0.05) were also significantly greater in HG. Further, the number of spermatogonia (Sg) was significantly (P < 0.01) lower, and spermatocyte (Sp) and elongated spermatid (Se) were significantly higher in HG (P < 0.05). Through transcriptome sequencing (RNA-seq), we identified 98, 163, 2,474 and 400 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the hypothalamus, pituitary, testis and external genitalia, respectively. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis indicated that the term "male gonad development" was significantly enriched in the hypothalamus. Here, the expression of LHX9 was positively correlated with ANM, and negatively correlated with SC and SQF (P < 0.05). Additionally, WNT4 was positively correlated with ANM and MAS (P < 0.01), and negatively correlated with SC (P < 0.05), suggesting that LHX9 and WNT4 might serve as key upstream regulatory genes. Further analysis through Weighted Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) showed that the yellow module (R = 0.89, P = 7e-09) was strongly associated with testicular development, with genes predominantly involved in male reproductive process. Based on these findings, we screened genes significantly correlated with LHX9 and WNT4 from the yellow module (|Cor |≥0.6, P < 0.05). These genes were significantly enriched in 8 pathways, primarily associated with metabolic processes, including drug metabolism - other enzymes, metabolism of xenobiotics by cytochrome P450, metabolic pathways, pyrimidine metabolism, glycerolipid metabolism, and riboflavin metabolism. Using the Maximal Clique Centrality (MCC) algorithm in the CytoHubba plug-in, SYCP3, DDX4, STRA8, AMH, MEIOB, CDT1, BCL2, PRIM1, and DLGAP5 were identified as hub genes. In conclusion, within the HPTE axis, libido might influence metabolism-related signaling pathways (mainly involving genes such as SYCP3, DDX4, STRA8, AMH, MEIOB, CDT1, BCL2, PRIM1, and DLGAP5) through LHX9 and WNT4 to regulate the development of the seminiferous tubules and germ cell number, ultimately affecting SC and MAS in geese. These findings offer practical insights into libido rating and shed light on the mechanisms by which libido regulates semen quality, potentially aiding in the improvement of goose breeding capacity.

Development of a prediction algorithm for stress concentration factor of surface microtopography under profile grinding

Development of a prediction algorithm for stress concentration factor of surface microtopography under profile grinding

Aptamer-Antibody Birecognized Sandwich SERRS Biosensor in Accurate and Rapid Identification of Intraoperative Parathyroid Hormone.

With the increasing incidence of thyroid cancer worldwide and the increasing demand for surgery, the risk of parathyroid injury is also increasing, which will lead to postoperative hypoparathyroidism (HP) and hypocalcemia. In order to improve the quality of life of patients after surgery, there is an urgent need to develop a novel platform that can identify the parathyroid gland immediately during surgery. The parathyroid gland promotes the increase of blood calcium concentration by secreting parathyroid hormone (PTH). Therefore, in this study, we used the sensitive surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) technique for rapid detection of PTH, while the near-infrared dye IR808 was used for resonance with the incident excitation wavelength of 785 nm to achieve the surface enhanced resonance Raman spectroscopy (SERRS) effect and provide a higher signal. The signal is enhanced by up to 200-fold compared to nonresonant sulfhydryl molecules. In addition, we used an aptamer-antibody mode with low Gibbs free energy (ΔG) and low dissociation constant (Kd), using the sandwich method, to achieve specific recognition of PTH. By optimizing the incubation temperature, aptamer dosage, particle concentration, and other key factors, the optimal detection conditions of the system were obtained. The sensitivity of PTH detection was as high as 9.75 pg/mL at a 5 min incubation time. In this work, we achieved an extension from standard products to rats to clinically practical samples. Finally, the eluate samples obtained from the actual clinical operations were compared with the lateral flow biosensor (LFB), chemiluminescence microparticle immunoassay (CMIA), and SERRS, respectively. Finally, using the CMIA results as the reference standard, the SERRS assay achieved a sensitivity of 94% and a specificity of 100%. This study provides new ideas and methods for the refined development of thyroid cancer surgery, improving postoperative safety and quality of life of patients, and promoting the new mode of intraoperative diagnosis and treatment.

Phytoremediation of Brackish Waters Polluted by Petroleum Hydrocarbon by Using Azolla microphylla

The research aimed to measure the effectiveness of Azolla microphylla in reducing petroleum hydrocarbon in brackish water. A completely randomized design was used with two factors: pollutant concentration (factor A) and A. microphylla addition (factor B). A consisted of A1 (10 ppm), A2 (20 ppm), A3 (30 ppm), A41 (40 ppm), and A5 (50 ppm). B consisted of B1 (50 g) and B0 (0 g of A. mycrophilla). The experimental units contained 10 L of water planted with fern (50 g) and control (B0). Analysis of variance shows that A. microphylla has a significant effect on the reduction of petroleum hydrocarbons in brackish water. The plant reduced levels of this pollutant by up to 36%. Without A. microphylla plants, the pollutant was decreased to 14-22% only. The pollutant reduced the leaf chlorophyll of the fern to 39.5%. The higher the pollutant level, the lower the chlorophyll content.

Platelet Concentration Explains Variability in Outcomes of Platelet-Rich Plasma for Lateral Epicondylitis: A High Dose Is Critical for a Positive Response: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis With Meta-regression.

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the efficacy of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for the management of lateral epicondylitis (LE) have been characterized by substantial variability in reported outcomes. The source of this heterogeneity is uncertain. To determine the effect of estimated platelet concentration on the efficacy of PRP for the management of LE. Systematic review and meta-analysis; Level of evidence, 2. All RCTs evaluating the efficacy of PRP in managing LE were identified. RCTs were classified according to whether the study documented a platelet concentration factor of PRP representing a greater than 3-fold increase over whole blood or a supraphysiological platelet dose (high-dose vs low-dose PRP). The primary outcome was the mean difference (MD) in the visual analog scale (VAS) score at latest follow-up. Random-effects and mixed-effects meta-analyses were performed, and meta-regression was used to evaluate whether differences in outcomes after treatment with PRP could be explained by differences in the concentration of PRP used. Overall, 13 RCTs with a total of 791 patients were included in this analysis, with 5 that utilized low-dose PRP and 8 that used high-dose PRP. Meta-analysis of VAS scores reported by studies that used high-dose PRP resulted in an MD of -1.31 (95% CI, -1.87 to -0.75) in favor of PRP over all alternative treatment strategies (P < .001). Meta-analysis of VAS scores reported by studies that used low-dose PRP resulted in an MD of 0.08 (95% CI, -0.51 to 0.68), suggesting no difference in the effect between PRP and all alternative treatment strategies (P = .79). The platelet concentration factor of PRP used in each RCT was found to be strongly predictive of the VAS score at final follow-up in meta-regression (P < .001), with 58.5% of the heterogeneity in the outcomes of PRP between studies explained by the platelet concentration factor alone. The platelet concentration of PRP may play a significant role in the outcomes of patients with LE. A direct linear relationship was observed between the platelet concentration factor of PRP used and the magnitude of patient-reported symptom relief after the management of LE with PRP. Clinicians should ensure a supraphysiological platelet concentration when preparing PRP for the management of LE.

Masquelet technique combined with concentrated growth factors for the reconstruction of rabbit mandibular marginal bone defect.

Both the Masquelet technique (MT) and concentrated growth factors (CGF) reduce early graft loss and improve bone regeneration. This study aims to explore the efficacy of combining MT with CGF for mandibular defect repair by characterizing the induced membrane and assessing in vivo osteogenesis. Three experimental groups were compared: negative control (NC), MT, and Masquelet combined with CGF (MTC). Four weeks after the first surgery, histopathology is used to identify the morphological structure of the induced membrane, evaluate the degree of vascularization, and the secretion levels of osteogenesis and angiogenesis-related growth factors. In vivo osteogenesis was assessed with a second autologous bone graft surgery 4 weeks later, and bone reconstruction was evaluated by micro-CT and histopathology. CGF significantly increased the induced membrane thickness, vascularization, and growth factor secretion levels. Quantitative micro-CT analysis showed that the bone volume fraction (BV/TV) at 4 weeks post-surgery was higher in the MTC group (23.30 ± 1.15%) compared to the MT group (16.50 ± 1.29%) and NC group (12.62 ± 1.23%) (P < 0.05). By 12 weeks, the difference in BV/TV between MTC (32.59 ± 0.11%) and MT (29.89 ± 0.49%) reduced, indicating consistent bone regeneration. Trabecular parameters were consistently higher in the MTC group, highlighting enhanced osteogenesis. Combining the Masquelet technique with CGF effectively reduces early bone graft absorption and promotes bone repair. These findings suggest potential benefits for oral and maxillofacial bone defect treatment, though further studies are needed to confirm long-term efficacy. Integrating Masquelet technique and CGF in mandibular reconstruction may improve clinical outcomes by enhancing bone regeneration and reducing graft failure.

The effect of concentrated growth factor on the biological performance of human dental pulp stem cells under oxidative stress status

Objective: To investigate the effect of concentrated growth factor (CGF) on the biological performance of human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) under oxidative stress status induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Methods: The hDPSCs were isolated by using tissue block separation method from healthy permanent teeth extracted for orthodontic reason. hDPSCs surface markers CD34, CD45, CD90 and CD105 were detected by flow cytometry. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alizarin red S (ARS), oil red O staining and colony formation assay were used to identify hDPSCs. After the cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) detection, the optimal H2O2 concentration was used to construct the hDPSCs oxidative stress model. CGF conditioned medium was prepared by repeated freeze-thaw methods. After CCK-8 detection, the optimum CGF concentration was chosen for the subsequent experiments. The hDPSCs were divided into control group, H2O2 (only H2O2 processing), H2O2+CGF group (H2O2 processing in combination with the CGF) and CGF group (only CGF processing). Subsequent experiments were performed according to these groups. The oxidative stress model was verified by reactive oxygen species, β-galactosidase staining and Western blotting. The effects of CGF on the proliferation and migration of hDPSCs under oxidative stress status were detected by CCK-8 and cell scratch assay, respectively. ALP activity and ARS staining were used to detect the effect of CGF on the osteogenic differentiation of hDPSCs under oxidative stress status. The mRNA expression levels of odontogenesis related genes were detected by real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR), and the expression levels of odontogenesis and osteogenesis related proteins were detected by Western blotting. Results: Isolated hDPSCs showed positive expression of mesenchymal stem cells surface markers of CD90, CD105, and negative expression of hematopoietic stem cells surface markers CD34, CD45. The hDPSCs were proved to have the capacity of osteogenic, adipogenic differentiation and clone formation. The optimal concentration to construct the oxidative stress model was 200 μmol/L H2O2. Twenty percent CGF was the optimal concentration for subsequent experiments. Compared with the control group, the expression of aging protein p53 was significantly up-regulated from (0.82±0.12) to (1.19±0.14) in H2O2 group (P<0.05), with deepened β-galactosidase staining and increased fluorescence intensity of reactive oxygen species. The proliferative capacity of cells in H2O2+CGF group on day 1, 3, 5 and 7 (0.23±0.01, 0.50±0.02, 1.60±0.07, 1.80±0.21) were all higher than in H2O2 group (0.15±0.01, 0.14±0.02, 0.50±0.03, 0.90±0.09) (P<0.01). Cell healing capacity of cells in H2O2+CGF group at 12 h and 24 h (0.47±0.07, 0.58±0.44) also increased compared with the H2O2 group (0.36±0.02, 0.44±0.02) (P<0.05), and similar results in the activity of ALP and the formation of mineralized nodules. On day 28, the mRNA expressions of dentin sialophosphoprotein (0.52±0.16) and dental matrix protein 1(DMP-1) (0.39±0.13) in H2O2 group were all significantly lower than those in H2O2+CGF group (0.96±0.24, 0.83±0.30, respectively) and CGF group (1.12±0.18, 1.23±0.19, respectively) (P<0.05). On day 28, the expressions of odontogenesis related protein DMP-1 (0.27±0.04) and osteogenesis related protein Runt-related transcription factor-2 (0.42±0.15) in H2O2 group were all significantly lower than those in H2O2+CGF group (0.66±0.18, 0.68±0.04) and CGF group (1.15±0.13, 1.06±0.19, respectively) (P<0.05). Conclusions: H2O2 can induce oxidative stress in hDPSCs, while CGF can promote proliferation, migration, odontogenic and osteogenic differentiation of hDPSCs under oxidative stress status.

Maximum stress concentration factors in DKT joints subjected to combined compression and tension loads

ABSTRACT This study focuses on universal equations to consider all 16 axial loading conditions for typical DKT-joint geometries because, until now, there are no such equations to estimate the maximum stress concentration (SCF) factors in those joints for axial loading conditions. To this end, 1728 finite element (FE) models were created and analysed. Available experimental data were used to verify the FE models, and 9 equations were developed to calculate the maximum SCF in uniplanar DKT-joints under axial loads and considering different geometrical parameters. Results indicated that increasing β and τ significantly increases SCFs, with τ having the bigger impact. γ and θ also increase SCFs, especially at saddle positions. At the end, the reliability of the developed equations was analysed by using both statistical indices and fatigue guidance review panel recommendations.

Elucidating the Impact of Key Filtration Parameters on the Recovery of Peptides and Oligosaccharides From Colostrum Whey Permeate at Pilot‐Scale

ABSTRACTBovine colostrum whey permeate, a byproduct of commercial ultrafiltration for protein isolation, contains bioactive peptides and prebiotic oligosaccharides. The study aimed to assess how feed flow and transmembrane pressure affect the concentration of peptides and oligosaccharides from colostrum whey permeate by comparing the efficiency of the Synder NFW (300–500 Da) and Hydracore 70 (500–700 Da) nanofiltration membranes. Additionally, it evaluated the in vitro biological activity of the resulting nanofiltration retentates, which were enriched in oligosaccharides and peptides. Despite nearly 8‐fold faster permeate fluxes, the Synder NFW membrane achieved equivalently high retention (99%–100%) compared to the Hydracore 70 membrane. These results imply that greater fouling occurred in the larger pores of Hydracore 70, as evidenced by resistance measurements. Optimum filtration conditions for each membrane (Synder NFW: 18.05 L min−1, 27 bar; Hydracore 70: 3.95 L min−1, 35 bar Hydracore 70) were used to concentrate whey permeate to a concentration factor of 15. Both retentates showed equivalent selective prebiotic activity toward Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis ATCC15697 growth (1% w/v powder), ACE‐inhibition at 1.67 mg mL−1 of powder (Synder NFW: 54%, Hydracore 70%: 67%), and α‐glucosidase inhibitory activity at 100 mg mL−1 of powder (Synder NFW: 48%, Hydracore 70%: 53%). The retentates exhibited 26 and 29 μmol Trolox equivalents/g of powder for Synder NFW and Hydracore 70 membranes, respectively. Glycomic profiling identified potentially antidiabetic and prebiotic oligosaccharides, while peptidomic profiling coincided with the observed bioactivity. These results show how key filtration conditions affect the nanofiltration of bovine colostrum whey permeate for recovering of oligosaccharides and peptides with potential health benefits.

A new approach for hemodynamics of varicoceles: blood flow patterns based on contrast-enhanced ultrasound

BackgroundHemodynamic alterations in the spermatic vein are implicated in infertility among patients with varicocele (VC). Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), a powerful tool for hemodynamic analysis, remains unexplored for VC. This study aimed to demonstrate the feasibility of using CEUS to evaluate spermatic vein hemodynamics in patients with VC and establish a clear correlation between specific hemodynamic patterns and impaired semen parameters. This study included 165 patients with left-sided VC and 50 healthy volunteers. All participants underwent CEUS of the spermatic veins, along with maximum venous diameter and testicular volume measurements and serum sex hormone levels and routine semen analyses. The sperm DNA fragmentation index was measured in 146 patients with VC and 37 healthy controls.ResultsThe analyses revealed four distinct blood flow patterns of the spermatic vein: steady flow, intermittent stasis, intermittent reflux, and filling defect. In healthy spermatic veins, the predominant blood flow patterns included steady flow and intermittent stasis. Spermatic veins with VC exhibited a significant increase in the intermittent reflux and filling defect patterns, with the proportion rising as the clinical grade increased. The four patterns were further grouped into the “steady flow & intermittent stasis” and “intermittent reflux & filling defect” patterns for logistic regression analyses; the intermittent reflux & filling defect pattern was revealed as an independent risk factor for impaired sperm concentration, total sperm counts, progressive motility, morphology, and DNA fragmentation index.ConclusionsThis study validated the feasibility of CEUS for assessing the hemodynamics of the spermatic vein and established the intermittent reflux & filling defect pattern as an independent predictor of impaired semen parameters.