Cost-effective Strategy Research Articles

Cost-effectiveness of benmelstobart and anlotinib plus chemotherapy as first-line therapy for extensive-stage small cell lung cancer in China

The results of the ETER701 trial showed that benmelstobart and anlotinib plus chemotherapy have potential advantages in the treatment of extensive small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC). However, it must be noted that the high cost cannot be ignored. This study was designed to assess the cost-effectiveness of benmelstobart (B) and anlotinib (A) plus etoposide and carboplatin (EC) as first-line treatment options for patients with ES-SCLC in China. From the perspective of Chinese healthcare system, a three-state partitioned survival model was employed. The cycle length was set at three weeks, and the time horizon of the study was set as lifetime horizon. Total costs, life years (LYs), quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) as primary outputs of the model. Among them, the cost, and utility values were respectively derived from the YAOZHI database, and published literature on the subject. At the same time, in order to assess the impact of parameter uncertainty on the model outputs, scenario and sensitivity analyses were carried out. The results showed that compared with the EC group, the ICER for the B + A + EC group was $141,623.44/QALY, and the ICER for the A + EC group was $45,353.46/QALY, which were both higher than the willingness-to-pay (WTP) threshold ($38,024.68/QALY). Sensitivity analysis verified the robustness of the model. Scenario analysis showed that charitable donations and cut-price could raise the likelihood of being cost-effective for benmelstobart and anlotinib. B + A + EC and A + EC are considered unlikely to be cost-effective strategies for first-line treatment of ES-SCLC in China. However, reducing the costs of benmelstobart and anlotinib may enhance the cost-effectiveness of these treatment regimens.

Enhanced Energy Storage Performance in Mn-Doped SrBi5Ti4FeO18 Thin Films via Defect Engineering.

Dielectric capacitors are essential in advanced electronics and power systems due to their high power density and fast charge-discharge rates. However, their application is limited by their low energy storage density and efficiency. Aurivillius-phase ferroelectrics have shown promise as energy storage materials, but their low polarization and significant hysteresis remain critical challenges. In this study, we present a simple and cost-effective defect-engineering strategy to enhance the energy storage performance of SrBi5Ti4FeO18 thin film through Mn doping. Mn incorporation suppresses oxygen vacancy formation and induces tensile chemical stress in the lattice, which simultaneously enhances maximum polarization and reduces the hysteresis. Additionally, the reduction in oxygen vacancies promotes grain refinement, reduces leakage current, and significantly enhances the breakdown strength. The optimized SrBi5Ti3.91Mn0.09FeO18 thin film achieves an ultrahigh energy storage density of 105 J/cm3 with improved efficiency of 70% at 3569 kV/cm. Moreover, it demonstrates good frequency stability (100 Hz to 10 kHz), thermal stability (20-160 °C), and fatigue endurance over 105 cycles. This work provides a feasible method for developing advanced dielectric capacitors with high energy storage performance by the rational design and precise control of defects.

Cost-Effectiveness of Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillators in Surgically Repaired Tetralogy of Fallot.

Implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) are increasingly used in patients with congenital heart disease, most commonly in surgically repaired Tetralogy of Fallot (rTOF). Studies have examined patient outcomes after ICD implantation; however, the cost-effectiveness of ICDs in rTOF is unknown. We sought to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of typical medical management plus ICD (TMM + ICD) for primary prevention of sudden cardiac death (SCD) compared to typical management alone (TMM) in high-risk patients with rTOF. We created a Markov model to compare costs and quality of life (QOL) of TMM + ICD vs TMM for a hypothetical adolescent with rTOF and higher than average risk of SCD over 20years. Model parameters were derived from the literature and institutional data. We assumed that SCD risk increased from 0.4%/year to 1.2%/year over 20years, that the ICD was 99% effective in preventing SCD, and a frequency of ICD replacement of 11years. We used sensitivity analyses to explore uncertainty around model assumptions. Costs were $62,895 for TMM + ICD and $19,004 for TMM. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio for TMM + ICD was $53,386/quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) which is below threshold of $100,000/QALY that is usually considered cost-effective. The model was sensitive to SCD risk, costs of ICD implantation and management, cost of ICD replacement, and utilities of living with rTOF and of ICD implantation. Based on risk of SCD, cost of device implantation and management including complications, and our current understanding of the impact of ICD implantation on patient QOL, ICD therapy for primary prevention of SCD in rTOF can constitute a cost-effective strategy.

A randomized controlled trial of the effectiveness of the mHealth program in improving the lifestyle of nursing students

Promoting healthy lifestyles is essential for preventing chronic diseases, yet a vast majority of university students regularly engage in unhealthy habits. Utilizing mobile smart devices for health interventions, known as mHealth, which integrate behavioral change theories with environmental interaction, offers a promising and cost-effective strategy to encourage lasting adoption of healthier habits. This study compared the effectiveness of the mHealth intervention program with a traditional face-to-face program in fostering healthy lifestyle changes. Through a randomized controlled trial involving 220 nursing students (110 in the mHealth intervention program and 110 in the traditional program), data were collected from May to December 2023 using predefined questionnaires. These questionnaires included the Global/International Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ/IPAQ) for monitoring adult physical activity, a Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) for dietary assessment, and a Sleep Quality Scale (SQS). Three months after the educational intervention program, lifestyle improvements were significantly more pronounced in the mHealth intervention group compared to the traditional group. The implementation of the mHealth intervention program aimed at improving lifestyle has proven to be a transformative approach in fostering positive behavioral changes among participants. The study was approved by the IRB of Zagazig Faculty of Medicine (IRB 10827/24-6-2023) and was registered at the ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT06404619, 08/05/2024).

To Assess the Effectiveness of Aroma Theraphy on Joint Pain and Quality of Life among Menopausal Women Attending BVV, Sangha’s Akkanbalaga at Bagalkot

Background of the Study: Joint pain and poor Quality of life are commonly seen problems among menopausal women, which usually impede in proper management of joint pain and also can create serious health issues if not treated properly. Interventions like Aromatherapy and psycho education are proven to be effective management for treating joint pain and to enhance Quality of life among menopausal women. Hence the investigator felt the need to evaluate the effectiveness Aromatherapy intervention and psycho education on joint pain control measures and Quality of life of menopausal women. Methods: This was quasi experimental study with one group of pre-test and post-test design with 50 subject selected through simple random sampling technique. Data was collected using self –made questionnaire and WHO Brief’s Quality of life scale. Intervention (Aromatherapy)was administered for 20 minutes for 30days (3sessons bi weekly). Data were analyzed by using descriptive and inferential statistics in terms of frequency distribution, percentage, mean, mean percentage, Standard Deviation, paired ‘t’ test and chi-square test. Results: Findings related to comparison of pre –test and post-test Quality of life scores of menopausal women shows that, mean post-test joint pain score is significantly Lesser that mean post test joint pain score [t =16.01, p<0.001] and Mean post Quality of Life score is significantly greater then mean pre test Quality of life score. [t=9.802, p<0.001]. Conclusion: The study proved that intervention package [Aromatherapy] on joint pain scores and Quality of Life among socio demographic was effective, scientific, logical and cost effective strategy in managing the joint pain and in enhancing Quality of Life scores of menopausal women.

Cost-benefit analysis of pharmacist early active consultation in patients with multidrug-resistant bacteria in China.

Although Pharmacist Early Active Consultation (PEAC) has demonstrated clinical benefits in patients with multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs), its cost-effectiveness in China remains insufficiently studied. This study aimed to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of PEAC in patients with MDROs from the perspective of the Chinese healthcare system. A historically controlled study was conducted on 100 MDRO-infected patients, including 37 who received PEAC and 63 who did not. The effective treatment rate and duration of the symptoms were assessed. A decision tree model was developed using model inputs derived from the study. The primary endpoints included incremental cost per MDRO treatment and incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER). Uncertainty was evaluated using one-way and probabilistic sensitivity analysis. The effective treatment rate increased to 89.1% in the PEAC group compared with 62.1% in the no-consultation group. Patients in the PEAC group experienced a 2.1-day shorter duration of symptoms than those without consultation (15.5days vs. 17.6days, P = 0.04). The base case analysis estimated that the PEAC group gained 0.189 quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) at a cost of $18,209.7, while the no-consultation group gained 0.177 QALYs at a cost of $23,831.1. The PEAC group was more cost-effective, yielding an ICER of - $475,499.0 per QALY gained. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis indicated that PEAC was cost-effective in 60.1% of cases, with costs remaining below the willingness-to-pay (WTP) threshold, supporting PEAC as a cost-effective strategy for managing MDRO infections. Pharmacist Early Active Consultation was a more cost-effective strategy than no consultation for treating MDRO infections in patients in China.

Illuminating the path to more equitable access to urban parks

Parks are a crucial element of urban landscapes. Understanding the role of the built environment in terms of park accessibility is vital for promoting travel equity and shaping public policies to improve access to urban parks. This study employs a geospatial artificial intelligence (GeoAI) approach to examine the impact of the built environment on park accessibility at both macro and micro levels. We find that accessibility to urban parks varies significantly across different travel modes, with walking being the least equitable due to its most clustered distribution pattern. While the macro-level built environment provides substantial explanatory power for accessibility across travel modes, our GeoAI-based analysis offers a more nuanced understanding of streetscape qualities, by closely reflecting a more realistic human perception of the built environment. These qualities - street network interconnectivity, safety, openness, spaciousness, greenery, and distinctive signage - significantly correlate with enhanced park accessibility across all travel modes, thereby complementing macro-level factors. Ultimately, this study suggests that placing emphasis on multimodal travel can enhance travel equity, thus providing the relevant authorities and policymakers with cost-effective strategies for improving park accessibility.

Enteral nutrition versus parenteral nutrition in the management of postoperative pancreatic fistula following pancreaticoduodenectomy: a prospective observational study.

Postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) presents a significant challenge to oral intake after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). Strategies such as enteral feeding via nasojejunal tube, feeding jejunostomy (FJ), and total parenteral nutrition (TPN) are commonly used to optimize postoperative nutrition. However, the routine use of FJ in PD remains controversial. This study assesses the effectiveness of enteral feeding versus TPN in the management of POPF. A prospective observational study was conducted on 100 patients undergoing classical PD at a tertiary care centre in eastern India between July 2019 and July 2024. Patients were randomly allocated to FJ and non-FJ groups in a 1:1 ratio. The primary endpoints were procedure-related complications (POPF, delayed gastric emptying (DGE), post-pancreatectomy haemorrhage, bile leak, Clavien-Dindo grade ≥ 3), hospital stay, additional costs and 30-day mortality in patients with clinically relevant POPF. Of the 100 patients, 50 underwent routine FJ placement, and 50 did not. Most POPF cases were Grade B (34% versus 24%). Subgroup analysis of patients with clinically relevant POPF revealed that FJ placement significantly reduced fistula duration (3.8 versus 5.2 weeks, P < 0.001), intra-abdominal drain duration (26.4 versus 34.9 days, P < 0.001), hospital stay (7.9 versus 9.9 days, P < 0.001) and cost expenses (1301 ± 524 versus 1982 ± 441, P < 0.001). There were no differences in complication rates, reoperations, readmissions or 30-day mortality. FJ placement was not associated with adverse events. Routine FJ is a safe and cost-effective strategy for PD patients requiring prolonged nutritional support.

High-Performance FeRu Alloy Electrocatalyst Integrated with a Mo Substrate for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction in Seawater.

The production of hydrogen from seawater offers a potential pathway to accomplish sustainable energy solutions. However, this process is impeded by the sluggish kinetics of the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and the corrosive nature of seawater. In this work, an FeRu alloy electrocatalyst integrated with a Mo substrate (FeRu/MoO2@Mo) is developed, specifically designed for HER in both alkaline and seawater environments. The FeRu/MoO2@Mo catalyst demonstrated remarkable performance, achieving overpotentials of only 22, 42, and 65 mV in alkaline solution, simulated seawater, and real seawater at 10 mA cm-2. Moreover, the FeRu/MoO2@Mo electrocatalyst exhibited long-term stability for HER, maintaining its activity for at least 400 h under conditions of 1m KOH. In situ Raman spectroscopy and theoretical calculations revealed incorporation of Fe reduces the density of states near the Fermi level of Ru, thereby optimizing hydrogen adsorption-desorption behavior and enhancing the HER activity. This work offers a scalable and cost-effective strategy for the development of efficient non-platinum catalysts.

Examining the role of random parameters and unobserved heterogeneity in the frequency-severity of rural freeway run-off-road and fixed-object crashes: A Bayesian hierarchical-geospatial approach.

Examining the role of random parameters and unobserved heterogeneity in the frequency-severity of rural freeway run-off-road and fixed-object crashes: A Bayesian hierarchical-geospatial approach.

Pre- and post-operative administration of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in cardiac surgery patients. A narrative review

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are two biologically active omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA), acquired by nutrition and incorporated in cell membranes’ phospholipids, thus playing a crucial role in human health and homeostasis. Due to their potential cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory, and anti-arrhythmic actions, n-3 PUFA emerge as an interesting therapeutic option for cardiac surgery (CS) patients. The aim of this review was to assess the effects of perioperative administration of n-3 PUFA in CS patients. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in order to identify prospective cohort studies and randomized controlled trials (RCT) reporting on the perioperative effects of n-3 PUFA among adult patients undergoing CS. A total of 31 articles, published between 1995 and 2022, including 10 543 patients, met the inclusion criteria. There seems to be a beneficial effect of n-3 PUFA supplementation for arrhythmias such as in Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation (POAF), reduction of Intensive Care Unit Length of Stay (ICULOS) &amp; Hospital Length of Stay (HLOS), reduction in postoperative ventilation time, in inotropic demand, in postoperative fatigue, as well as in overall morbidity and mortality. Moreover, n-3 PUFA increase antioxidant potential, attenuate oxidative stress and inflammation with subsequent significant reduction in myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, thus promoting early metabolic recovery of the heart after elective CS leading to improved myocardial protection. They represent a readily available and cost-effective strategy that could improve the outcome of patients undergoing CS, by reducing the risks of serious cardiovascular adverse events (AE), both peri- and post-operatively.

Drug repositioning as a promising approach for the eradication of emerging and re-emerging viral agents.

The global impact of emerging and re-emerging viral agents during epidemics and pandemics leads to serious health and economic burdens. Among the major emerging or re-emerging viruses include SARS-CoV-2, Ebola virus (EBOV), Monkeypox virus (Mpox), Hepatitis viruses, Zika virus, Avian flu, Influenza virus, Chikungunya virus (CHIKV), Dengue fever virus (DENV), West Nile virus, Rhabdovirus, Sandfly fever virus, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) virus, and Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV). A comprehensive literature search was performed to identify existing studies, clinical trials, and reviews that discuss drug repositioning strategies for the treatment of emerging and re-emerging viral infections using databases, such as PubMed, Scholar Google, Scopus, and Web of Science. By utilizing drug repositioning, pharmaceutical companies can take advantage of a cost-effective, accelerated, and effective strategy, which in turn leads to the discovery of innovative treatment options for patients. In light of antiviral drug resistance and the high costs of developing novel antivirals, drug repositioning holds great promise for more rapid substitution of approved drugs. Main repositioned drugs have included chloroquine, ivermectin, dexamethasone, Baricitinib, tocilizumab, Mab114 (Ebanga™), ZMapp (pharming), Artesunate, imiquimod, saquinavir, capmatinib, naldemedine, Trametinib, statins, celecoxib, naproxen, metformin, ruxolitinib, nitazoxanide, gemcitabine, Dorzolamide, Midodrine, Diltiazem, zinc acetate, suramin, 5-fluorouracil, quinine, minocycline, trifluoperazine, paracetamol, berbamine, Nifedipine, and chlorpromazine. This succinct review will delve into the topic of repositioned drugs that have been utilized to combat emerging and re-emerging viral pathogens.

Increasing take-home naloxone kit distribution to patients with substance use disorder before hospital discharge: a quality improvement project

The ongoing drug toxicity crisis is a growing public health challenge in many countries across the world. Despite the WHO’s recommendation of take-home naloxone (THN) kits as a cost-effective harm...

The Interplay between Diabetes and Malnutrition in Rural Uganda: Pathophysiology, Challenges, and Interventions

The coexistence of diabetes mellitus and malnutrition in rural Uganda presents a significant public health challenge. Diabetes, particularly type 2 diabetes (T2D), has emerged as a growing concern in sub-Saharan Africa, including rural Uganda, where it often overlaps with malnutrition, manifesting as both undernutrition (e.g., protein-energy malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies) and overnutrition (e.g., obesity and excessive consumption of processed foods). This review explores the pathophysiology of the diabetes-malnutrition nexus, emphasizing how undernutrition exacerbates insulin resistance and glucose dysregulation, while overnutrition contributes to obesity and chronic inflammation, further complicating diabetes management. The healthcare challenges in rural Uganda, including limited access to care, high costs of medications, and low levels of health literacy, exacerbate these dual burdens. The review discusses potential interventions, such as community-based strategies, sustainable agriculture, biofortification, and policy reforms aimed at strengthening healthcare services and improving nutrition. Future research needs to focus on affordable dietary interventions, long-term effects of malnutrition on diabetes progression, and cost-effective management strategies. A coordinated, multi-pronged approach that includes education, improved healthcare infrastructure, and culturally tailored nutritional support is essential for managing diabetes and malnutrition in rural Uganda. Keywords: Diabetes mellitus, type 2 diabetes, malnutrition, undernutrition, overnutrition, rural Uganda.

Enhancing Students' Understanding of Earth's Spatial Relationships Using Virtual Reality: A Case Study of Secondary Schools in Nyamasheke District, Rwanda

This study evaluated the effectiveness of Virtual Reality (VR) software simulations in enhancing students’ understanding of Earth's spatial relationships in secondary schools. It focused on the perspectives of geography teachers in Nyamasheke District and assessed the integration of VR technology into classrooms and its impact on student achievement. The objectives were to assess the effectiveness of VR-based teaching practices, explore geography teachers' perspectives on integrating VR in geography education, and evaluate the impact of VR simulations on students' academic performance in Earth Science. The research was guided by Constructivist Learning Theory. A descriptive research design was adopted to provide a detailed overview of VR simulation usage in schools. The target population consisted of 116 geography teachers from secondary schools in Nyamasheke District. A census sampling method was used to collect data from the entire population. Data were collected through structured questionnaires comprising closed and open-ended questions and Likert scales. Interviews were conducted with teachers to generate qualitative data. Secondary data were sourced from government education reports and documentation from the Nyamasheke District Education Unit. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 23.0, employing descriptive statistics (e.g., frequency counts, percentages, means, and standard deviations) and multiple regression analysis to examine the relationship between VR technology use and student achievement. Qualitative data from interviews was analyzed thematically. The findings revealed that VR simulations were highly effective in enhancing students' understanding of Earth's spatial relationships. Immersiveness (r = .953, p &lt; .001), interactivity (r = .874, p &lt; .001), accessibility (r = .909, p &lt; .001), and visual representation (r = .927, p &lt; .001) were significantly correlated with improved conceptual understanding, spatial reasoning skills, and engagement. Geography teachers highlighted that 47% strongly agreed and 40% agreed that VR simulations improved teaching practices, while 53% strongly agreed and 37% agreed that VR enhanced student engagement. Challenges included insufficient infrastructure, reported by 47% as strongly agreed, and inadequate teacher training, indicated by 46% strongly agreeing. In conclusion, VR simulations significantly enhanced students’ conceptual understanding, spatial reasoning, and engagement, making them a valuable tool for improving Earth Science education. However, challenges such as the lack of proper infrastructure, high costs, and insufficient training must be addressed. The study recommended that schools invest in VR technology infrastructure and provide comprehensive training for teachers to maximize its potential. Policymakers should prioritize funding and technical support to integrate VR into Rwanda's education system. Future researchers were encouraged to explore the long-term impact of VR simulations on academic performance across other STEM subjects and develop cost-effective strategies to scale VR technology in resource-constrained schools.

Synergistic Catalysts with Fe Single Atoms and Fe3C Clusters for Accelerated Oxygen Adsorption Kinetics in Oxygen Reduction Reaction.

The design of cost-effective and efficient catalysts based on transition metal-based electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is crucial yet challenging for energy-conversion devices like metal-air batteries. In this work, we present a cost-effective strategy for preparing catalysts consisting of single-atomic Fe sites and Fe3C clusters encapsulated in nitrogen-doped carbon layers (FeSA-Fe3C/NC). The FeSA-Fe3C/NC electrocatalyst demonstrates outstanding ORR performance in alkaline electrolytes, achieving a high half-wave potential (E1/2=0.902V), 4e- ORR selectivity, and robust methanol tolerance. The exceptional ORR catalytic performance is credited to the relatively substantial specific surface area and the optimal arrangement of active sites, including atomically dispersed Fe-N sites and synergistic Fe3C clusters. In situ spectroelectrochemical characterization and theoretical calculations verify that Fe3C clusters disrupt the symmetric electronic structure of Fe-N4, optimizing 3d orbitals of Fe centers, thereby accelerating O─O bond cleavage in *OOH to boost ORR activity. Furthermore, a zinc-air battery constructed with FeSA-Fe3C/NC demonstrates excellent potential in energy storage application, yielding a maximum power density of 151.3mW cm-2 and robust cycling durability surpassing that of commercial Pt/C catalysts. This study establishes a cost-effective route for producing metal-based carbon electrocatalysts with exceptional performance using environmentally friendly raw materials.

Fostering Mental Health Literacy Among Primary School Professionals: Evaluating the Impact of an Online Training Program ‘Well@School’

Mental health challenges among children and adolescents have become a pressing global concern, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing geopolitical instability. Addressing these issues requires innovative, cost-effective strategies, with schools serving as critical platforms for mental health promotion. This study evaluates the impact of an online training program, Well@School, designed to enhance Mental Health Literacy (MHL) among primary school professionals in Finland, Lithuania, Bulgaria, Slovenia, and Greece. Using a descriptive, cross-sectional design with pre- and post-test assessments, the study involved 223 health, education, and social care professionals. The revised Mental Health Literacy Scale (MHLS) was employed to measure changes in MHL. Results indicated a significant positive effect, with an average increase of 4 points (2.5%) in MHLS scores post-course. Bayesian analysis further confirmed this improvement, showing a high probability (99.92%) of a positive impact, with the most likely gain ranging between 3 and 5 points. The findings underscore the potential of online training programs to enhance MHL among school professionals, thereby improving their capacity to support students’ mental health. This study highlights the importance of equipping primary school staff with the necessary skills to recognize and address mental health challenges, reduce stigma, and foster a supportive school environment.

Optimizing Dairy Cow Performance: Influence of Fortified Urea Molasses Mineral Block on Milk Yield in Winter

The article is good contribution to refresh cost effective feed supplementation strategies especially to cater climate effect. This study evaluated the effect of urea-molasses mineral blocks (UMMBs), with or without enzyme and herb enrichment, on the milk yield and composition of dairy cows during the winter months in two phases. In Phase 1, experimental multinutrient blocks were prepared, and dairy cows were grouped based on body weight, stage of lactation, milk yield, and parity. In Phase 2, animals were offered UMMBs, and milk samples were collected. Milk yield was recorded daily, while milk composition was analyzed at three points: the start of the experiment, mid-trial, and at the end of the experiment (days 0, 22, and 45). Milk yield increased in the treatment groups compared to the control group, where it declined during the experimental period (December to February). However, this increase was not statistically significant. The highest milk production was recorded in T4 (Urtica dioica + enzyme-enriched UMMB), while the lowest was in T0 (control group). A significant (P&lt;0.05) increase in milk protein percentage was observed in all treatment groups compared to the control, with the highest protein percentage in T4 (Urtica dioica + enzyme-fortified UMMB) and the lowest in T1 (control group). Although milk fat percentage and 3.5% fat-corrected milk (FCM) increased in all treatment groups compared to the control, the differences were not statistically significant. However, milk solids-not-fat (SNF) percentage was significantly (P&lt;0.05) higher in T4 compared to other treatment and control groups. Additionally, milk lactose percentage was significantly (P&lt;0.05) higher in T1 and T4 than in T0 (control group). This study highlights the importance of UMMB supplementation in sustaining milk production and composition during winter forage scarcity. It suggests that enzyme- and herb-enriched UMMBs can enhance milk yield, protein, and SNF content in dairy cows. The findings of the study provide valuable insights for optimizing ruminant nutrition and improving dairy performance in harsh climates.

Exploiting the Achilles' heel of cancer through a structure-based drug-repurposing approach and experimental validation of top drugs using the TRAP assay.

Telomerase, a reverse transcriptase implicated in replicative immortality of cancers, remains a challenging target for therapeutic intervention due to its structural complexity and the absence of clinically approved small-molecule inhibitors. In this study, we explored drug repurposing as a pragmatic approach to address this gap, leveraging FDA-approved drugs to accelerate the identification of potential telomerase inhibitors. Using a structure-based drug discovery framework, we screened the DrugBank database through a previously validated pharmacophore model for the FVYL pocket in the hTERT thumb domain, the established binding site of BIBR1532. This was followed by molecular docking, pharmacokinetic filtering, and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to evaluate the stability of protein-ligand complexes. Binding free energy calculations (MM-PBSA and MM-GBSA) were employed for cross-validation, identifying five promising candidates. Experimental validation using the Telomerase Repeat Amplification Protocol (TRAP) assay confirmed the inhibitory potential of Raltitrexed, showing significant inhibition with IC50 8.899µM in comparison to control. Decomposition analysis and Structure-Activity Relationship (SAR) studies further offered insights into the binding mechanism, reinforcing the utility of the FVYL pocket as a druggable site. Raltitrexed's dual mechanism of action, targeting both telomerase and thymidylate synthase, underscores its potential as a versatile anticancer agent, suitable for combination therapies or standalone treatment. As the top lead, Raltitrexed demonstrates the potential of repurposed drugs in telomerase-targeted therapies, offering a time and cost-effective strategy for advancing its clinical development. The study also provides a robust framework for future drug development, addressing challenges in targeting telomerase for anticancer therapy.

Electromagnetic simulation integrated strategy to metamorphose commercial cotton into multifunctional electromagnetic interference shielding fabrics

In the dynamic landscape of wearable electronics, the demand for versatile electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials is on the rise. Despite numerous studies on multifunctional EMI shielding fabrics, research on developing such materials using resource-efficient and cost-effective strategies is scarce. The present study introduces a pioneering approach to crafting simulation-engineered carbonized cotton-based EMI shielding fabrics with diverse multifunctionality by leveraging the strategy of electromagnetic (EM) simulations and ferrite decoration. The exceptional conductivity of carbonized cotton stemming from plasmonic electronic states, together with ferrite integration, plays a significant role in enhancing the EMI shielding ability of the fabrics. Ferrite integration is found to be instrumental in reducing the reflection and enhancing the absorption of EM radiations. EM simulations based on a double-layer fabric model demonstrated ~ 60 dB shielding effectiveness for a fabric with 0.75mm thickness, which is further verified via experimental testing. A comprehensive analysis of the EM parameters of the shielding fabric unveiled the existence of unique high-frequency negative permittivity, the high dielectric loss of the order of 10, multiple dielectric-magnetic relaxations, and high attenuation constant in the order of 103, which significantly contributed to the effective absorption of EM waves. Furthermore, the fabricated EMI shielding fabrics exhibit a plethora of desirable traits, including superior Joule heating performance, photo-thermal capabilities, efficient thermal management, and remarkable hydrophobicity. Consequently, the findings position the multifunctional simulation-engineered EMI shielding fabrics developed in this study as compelling contenders for futuristic applications in wearable electronics, aligning closely with policies emphasizing cost-effectiveness and sustainability.Graphical