Diameter Distribution Research Articles

Formulation, Evaluation, and Characterization of Indapamide Niosomes

Niosomes, also known as nonionic surfactant vesicles, are one of the many carriers used to carry drug molecules to their target sites. They can hold both hydrophilic and hydrophobic medicines. Indapamide is an angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1) antagonist medication primarily used to treat high blood pressure. Niosomes containing Indapamide were created utilizing the thin film hydration process with various cholesterol concentrations and nonionic surfactants (span 60). All noisome formulations were assessed for entrapment efficiency, drug content, reproducibility, vesicular diameter, shape and size distribution microphotography, FTIR analysis, and in vitro release experiments. The results indicate that in all of the created niosomal formulations, as the surfactant content increases, the entrapment efficiency also increases. The drug content ranged between 90.06±0.57 and 96.15±0.42, with a low standard deviation. Niosomes range in size from 0.280±0.098µm to 0.299±0.044µm and have a spherical shape. The IR spectrum analysis indicated no interaction between the medication and the formulation ingredients. Membrane diffusion cells were used to study the in vitro dissolution parameters. The results demonstrate that formulation F6 had a better-controlled release action than other formulations, with an 'n' value of 0.917, indicating that the medication was released using zero-order kinetics.

Vulnerability of the Pteridoflora Towards Climate Change in the West Albertine Rift: Case of the Mountain’s Stages of the Kahuzi-Biega National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

The present article aims at analysing the floristic composition of Lycophytes and Ferns to test the disturbances on the vegetation structure occurring in the mountains zones of the Kahuzi-Biega National Park (KBNP), further, to prove/underline the main threat and the vulnerability which actually is impacting the biodiversity in the mountains of the Western Albertine Rift due to climate changes and resulting in habitat loss as well as result of anthropogenic activities. The KBNP is located at the crossroad of the phytogeography regions of the Guinea-Congolese and Afromontane between 650 to 3326 m of altitude. During 10 years, we conducted comparison studies in the habitats (disturbed and undisturbed) encountered on the vegetation that scales between 1250 à 3300 m of altitude in 30 plots, 15 transects on a one kilometre. The results obtained reveal a variation in the flora composition within the three stages. The difference in the height, the diametric distribution (trees and shrubs) as well as the presence of Pteridophytes between undisturbed and disturbed habitats is highly significant within the 10 years’ observations. In stable and mature parcels, Pteridophytes constitute a very rich, diversified and stable population. Permanent threat manifested through the fragility of the habitats and is further translated by a modification of the floristic composition of the canopy, and sometimes trough the taming of the undergrowth in disturbed parcels. The mountainous part of the KBNP might probably constitute a climatic refuge for Pteridophytes in the Albertine Rift considering their diversity. Furthermore, considering these adaptations, the diversity and the specificity of the biotopes occupied, as well as the bioecological services recognized to Lycophytes and Ferns, they are the real markers for bioindicators of the delicatessen towards climate changes observed in the western rift Albertine. However, anthropogenic effects and sometimes, natural hazards resulting in this protected area, may also constitute a source of vulnerability for Pteridophytes

PVP/aprepitant microcapsules produced by supercritical antisolvent process

The supercritical antisolvent (SAS) process was a green alternative to improve the low bioavailability of insoluble drugs. However, it is difficult for SAS process to industrialize with limited production capacity. A coaxial annular nozzle was used to prepare the microcapsules of aprepitant (APR) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) by SAS with N, N-Dimethylformamide (DMF) as solvent. Meanwhile, the effects of polymer/drug ratio, operating pressure, operating temperature and overall concentration on particles morphology, mean particle diameter and size distribution were analyzed. Microcapsules with mean diameters ranging from 2.04 μm and 9.84 μm were successfully produced. The morphology, particle size, thermal behavior, crystallinity, drug content, drug dissolution and residual amount of DMF of samples were analyzed. The results revealed that the APR drug dissolution of the microcapsules by SAS process was faster than the unprocessed APR. Furthermore, the drug powder collected every hour is in the kilogram level, verifying the possibility to scale up the production of pharmaceuticals employing the SAS process from an industrial point of view.

Redbay (Persea borbonia L. Spreng) Seedling and Sapling Growth and Recruitment Near Trees with and without Putative Resistance to Laurel Wilt Disease

Laurel wilt, a fungal disease (Harringtonia lauricola T.C. Harr., Fraedrich and Aghayeva) spread by the Asian redbay ambrosia beetle [Xyleborus glabratus Eichhoff (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae)], presents an imminent threat to North American members of the Lauraceae family, having caused extensive mortality in several species, especially redbay (Persea borbonia L. Spreng). Varying levels of disease resistance have been recorded in redbay under controlled conditions. To investigate if previously monitored putatively resistant field redbays have influenced the regeneration and survival of conspecifics within the surrounding 0.08 ha, a survey was conducted in 2018-19 and compared to similar data collected years prior (2008-09, 2013) along the coasts of Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina, United States. Plots were originally established at six disease-infested study sites around large redbay (>7.5-cm diameter at breast height (1.37 m) (DBH)) that had survived the initial laurel wilt disease epidemic that began in approximately 2007. In 2018-19, a subset of 61 plots within 16 m of the original “survivor” redbay were recorded and compared to previous surveys. Among the original redbay selected for resistance, 22 of 61 (36%) survivors across all sites were alive in 2018 with survival rates varying from 0 to 70% between survey periods (average mortality 3.6%/year). Trees that died in years since 2008-09 had their plots reclassified as susceptible or “suscepts”. Changes in mean quadratic diameter at 1.37 m of redbay plots near survivors were significantly greater than those near suscepts, and in 2018-19, the average diameter of redbay near survivors was 7.62 cm vs. 4.90 cm for suscepts. The diameter distribution of dead and live redbay in the whole population showed a decrease in live individuals surviving past 8 cm DBH in 2018–2019, but 20 of 22 survivor candidate trees were larger than 8 cm DBH. Regeneration was occurring both clonally and sexually and tended to be greater near suscepts, but midstory resprouts per hectare and understory seedlings interacted significantly with the site and the latter differed between sites. These findings indicate that redbay is regenerating in these ecosystems, and disease resistance may allow for increased average tree size for some individuals, but an upper size threshold of around 8 cm DBH may still exist for much of the population. In addition, the importance of site variables in regeneration was apparent, making either local genetic or environmental effects an important topic for future research. Continuing to monitor these survivors while locating new candidates for disease screenings and breeding, preventing the introductions of new strains of H. lauricola, shedding light on the nature of resistance and its heritability, and initiating outplanting trials with resistant germplasm are instrumental steps in bringing redbay back to prominence in its historical range.

Effect of Electrospinning Parameters on the Morphological and Thermal Properties of ABS/ENR Electrospun Fibres

The electrospun of the Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) blend with epoxidized natural rubber (ENR) is fabricated using the electrospinning technique. Research shows that ABS/ENR electrospun fibres have not been studied. The effects of electrospinning parameters were investigated to determine a significant effect on the microstructure, surface roughness, fibre diameter, and fibre distribution of the electrospun membranes. Sample preparation is made straightforwardly by dissolving ABS and ENR in acetone solvent using a magnetic stirrer. In this research, there are two solution parameters being studied: the ABS/ENR solution concentration (15 to 25 wt.%) and the ratio of ENR (100:0, 70:30, 50:50). Meanwhile, process parameters that are being studied are applied voltage (15 kV to 30 kV) and distance from syringe tip to collector (5cm to 15cm). FTIR results showed that hydrogen bond interaction occurs between ABS and ENR. According to the SEM images, micrometre and sub-micrometre fibres with a smooth surface and bead formation were produced at a concentration of 25%, a ratio of 70:30, a voltage of 30kV, and a distance of 15cm. The diameter of electrospun fibres increases with increasing solution concentration, ranging from 400 nm to 4.5 µm. The diameter of the electrospun fibres decreased with the addition of ENR, increasing voltage, and tip-to-collector distance. TGA results showed that ABS/ENR blends gave higher degradation temperature (393.7°C) than pure ABS (368.8°C), which enhanced thermal stability.

Preparation and properties of carbon dioxide foamed concrete using nanoparticles as foam stabilizer and pre–carbonated cement slurry

The stability of carbon dioxide (CO2) foam is critical for preparation and performance of CO2 foamed concrete (CFC). This study evaluated the effectiveness of nanoparticles for stabilizing CO2 foam and pre–carbonation of cement slurry for mitigating CO2 foam loss during CFC preparation, and conducted a comparative study of CO2 foam, pre-carbonized slurry and CFC, aiming at preparing CFC with excellent performance. The results demonstrated that the incorporation of nano–silica can significantly enhance the stability of CO2 foam, with an improved half–life and diameter distribution. The pre–carbonation process optimized consistency and alkalinity of cement slurry and increased the retention rate of CO2 foam after its introduction into cement slurry, thereby facilitating the production of low–density CFC. CFC exhibits high compressive strength and early internal temperature, and has a low water absorption. The presence of CO2 within pores and their subsequent formation of potential negative pressure via carbonation reaction contributed to a much lower thermal conductivity of CFC compared to air foamed concrete. Moreover, a thin layer of calcium carbonate was formed on the inner wall, which can densify the microstructure and modify the pores. Although the carbonation degree of CFC may be lower compared to that of conventional carbonation–cured foamed concrete, the internal and uniform carbonation within CFC greatly enhanced material strength. The non–destructive nuclear magnetic resonance results show that CFC has a more concentrated pore size distribution with fewer fine pores and a smaller pore throat radius.

Native species diversity associated with Bosque Palmeras de Ocol in the Amazonas region, Peru

The objective was to evaluate the ecology and dynamics of the native species community in the Bosque Palmeras de Ocol in the district of Molinopampa, Amazonas, Peru. Six sampling points were established, in which 1,569 trees belonging to 47 species were found. Species such as Astrocaryum sp., with a relative density of 10.7% and an importance value index (IVI) of 23.54%, and Prunus sp., with a relative density of 8.9% and an IVI of 22.23%, stood out. Myrsine coriacea subsp. 2 was identified as key with a high relative frequency and an IVI of 16.21%. Density per hectare revealed high values for Astrocaryum sp. (560 individuals/ha), Nectandra sp. (526 individuals/ha) and Prunus sp. 2 (470 individuals/ha). The distribution of tree height and diameter showed a predominance of smaller individuals, with most species presenting diameters less than 20 cm and heights between 3 and 4 meters. The range/abundance curve highlighted Astrocaryum sp. as the most abundant species. The distribution models showed a good fit to the Null and Preemption distributions, with low values of Akaike's criterion (AIC) 111.56 and 114.60, respectively. These findings provide a detailed understanding of the species community in this forest, fundamental for its conservation and sustainable management.

Grow or die: A 49‐year growth history of a Japanese warm‐temperate tree species

AbstractThe growth trajectories of trees are not fully understood due to their long life span. We characterized the population dynamics of the canopy tree Castanopsis cuspidata (Thunb.) Schottky in a Japanese warm‐temperate forest over 49 years (1966–2015). Our study was initiated approximately 50 years after our study site was clear‐cut. The forest had a closed canopy for the first 23 years of the study. Strong typhoons in 1991 and 1993 seriously damaged the forest, and since then the forest has been recovering from these disturbances. The diameter distribution of this species was bell‐shaped in 1966, suggesting that the trees emerged simultaneously after the clear‐cut in the 1910s, and the recruitment of trees has remained unchanged since then. The lack of recruitment of C. cuspidata before the typhoon disturbance supports this conclusion. Assuming that the C. cuspidata trees in 1966 were cohorts that were established soon after the clear‐cut, the size differences reflect differences in growth rate, with small trees corresponding to slow growers and large trees corresponding to fast growers. Before the typhoon, slow growers had low survival, and the mortality rate of fast growers was low. Many fast growers were uprooted or snapped by strong winds by the typhoons. However, their mortality rate did not differ from that of slow growers because many slow growers were killed by large fallen trees. The growth of some slow‐growing survivors increased after the typhoon, which allowed them to rapidly reach the canopy. Therefore, the typhoon altered the distribution of canopy trees among slow and fast growers. Survivors experienced faster growth than trees that died during the census period, suggesting that growth rate provides a robust indicator of future survival. Before the typhoon, the survival of fast growers was higher than that of slow growers. This suggests that fast growers disproportionally contribute to reproduction compared with slow growers. However, no recruited tree was observed in this subperiod, suggesting that fast growers made no contribution to reproduction. Fast growers might not play a more significant demographic role than slow growers in this species.

Variability in Intracranial Vessel Diameters and Considerations for Neurovascular Models: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis

BACKGROUND In vitro experiments are critical for understanding the impact of medical devices and techniques on blood vessels and blood flow. However, their interpretation is often limited by anatomical models’ inability to capture the wide range of vessel sizes observed in real‐world practice. The current study aims to address this limitation by describing the distribution of vessel diameters in a real‐world population. METHODS This systematic literature review using the PubMed database analyzed cerebral vessel diameters in patients from 2000 to 2022. The diameter measurements of various vessels within the neurovasculature were extracted. Random‐effects meta‐analyses were performed to synthesize vessel diameters across studies. Predicted distributions were generated from the meta‐analytical results. RESULTS Seventy‐six studies were included in the analysis. The M1 segment, internal carotid artery (cervical and communicating segments), A1 segment, V2 segment, V4 segment, and basilar artery had sufficient data for generating predicted distributions of vessel diameters. Predicted mean diameters were as follows: M1 segment, 2.55 ± 0.42 mm (95th interpercentile range [IPR]: 1.71–3.38); internal carotid artery‐cervical segment, 4.74 ± 0.64 mm (95th IPR: 3.49–5.99); internal carotid artery‐communicating segment, 3.40 ± 0.64 mm (95th IPR: 2.15–4.66); A1 segment, 1.89 ± 0.34 mm (95th IPR: 1.23–2.55); V2 segment, 3.36 ± 0.67 mm (95th IPR: 2.05–4.67); V4 segment, 2.42 ± 0.74 mm (95th IPR: 0.98–3.86); and basilar artery, 2.96 ± 0.52 mm (95th IPR: 1.94–3.97). CONCLUSION Cerebral vessel diameter measurements can vary substantially due to patient‐specific factors and imaging techniques. This literature review highlights the diverse range of vessel sizes observed in different patient populations, emphasizing the need for anatomical models that accurately represent clinical observations.

Structural and Successional Dynamics of Old-Growth Mixed Oak Forests in the West Qinling Mountains

Understanding the composition and structure of forest trees is crucial to comprehending the properties and functions of forests. It also helps in implementing effective management strategies for sustainable resource utilization. Our study analyzed the structural dynamics of the old-growth mixed oak forests in the Xiaolongshan Forest region, focusing on three long-term monitoring plots (A, B, C). We examined the tree species composition, diameter distribution, mortality, and recruitment dynamics of different successional species groups, as well as the spatial distribution patterns of living and dead trees, with surveys conducted every five years. The findings indicate: (1) Plot A experienced a decline in stand density and species diversity during the survey period, with the Importance Value Index (IVI) of pioneer successional species continually decreasing in plots B and C. (2) The tree diameter distribution structure in plot A significantly differed from other plots, showing notable change between 2007 and 2012. (3) All plots exhibited lower, well-balanced community-level demographic parameters based on stem number, but a higher recruitment rate for later successional species groups based on basal area. (4) Dead individuals in plot A had a slight clustering distribution, while the other plots showed a random distribution. We conclude that the individual growth rate significantly impacts the dynamics of the natural Quercus aliena var. acuteserrata forest, with pioneer species groups being gradually replaced by early or late-successional species groups in the succession process.

Air-blast atomization of a liquid film

Air-blast atomizers are extensively used for a variety of purposes. Due to its complexity, the atomization mechanism has not been elucidated. In this study, a mechanistic model is proposed to predict the droplet diameter distribution based on the atomization process of a planar liquid film with co-current gas flows, and its validity is examined by comparing the estimated and measured droplet diameters using high-speed image analysis and laser measurement. As a result, using high-speed imaging, we clarified that the bag film rupture is caused not by the turbulence of the gas flow but by the impact of floating droplets on the liquid film of the expanding bag when the film is thin enough. The average thickness of the liquid film at the bag breakup is of the order of micrometres and varies greatly, resulting in a dispersed distribution of droplet diameters. After the film ruptures, the bag film shrinks towards its transversal and vertical rims due to surface tension, forming large-diameter ligaments. During the contraction process of the bag film, tiny droplets of the order of micrometers are formed at the edge of the perforation. Finally, the remaining ligaments with large diameters fragment into large droplets with submillimetre diameters. The good agreement between the measured and predicted droplet diameter distributions validated the mechanistic model.

Starch-Based Polysaccharide Systems with Bioactive Substances: Physicochemical and Wettability Characteristics.

Polysaccharide-based systems have very good emulsifying and stabilizing properties, and starch plays a leading role. Their modifications should add new quality features to the product to such an extent that preserves the structure-forming properties of native starch. The aim of this manuscript was to examine the physicochemical characteristics of the combinations of starch with phospholipids or lysozymes and determine the effect of starch modification (surface hydrophobization or biological additives) and preparation temperature (before and after gelatinization). Changes in electrokinetic potential (zeta), effective diameter, and size distribution as a function of time were analyzed using the dynamic light scattering and microelectrophoresis techniques. The wettability of starch-coated glass plates before and after modification was checked by the advancing and receding contact angle measurements, as well as the angle hysteresis, using the settle drop method as a complement to profilometry and FTIR. It can be generalized that starch dispersions are more stable than analogous n-alkane/starch emulsions at room and physiological temperatures. On the other hand, the contact angle hysteresis values usually decrease with temperature increase, pointing to a more homogeneous surface, and the hydrophobization effect decreases vs. the thickness of the substrate. Surface hydrophobization of starch carried out using an n-alkane film does not change its bulk properties and leads to improvement of its mechanical and functional properties. The obtained specific starch-based hybrid systems, characterized in detail by switchable wettability, give the possibility to determine the energetic state of the starch surface and understand the strength and specificity of interactions with substances of different polarities in biological processes and their applicability for multidirectional use.

Gas CO2 foaming and intermixing in portland cement paste to sequester CO2

In this study, concentrated CO2 gas was used to create foamed cement paste, and concentrated CO2 gas was intermixed in fresh cement paste to produce regular cement paste materials that were not foamed. The potential of both methods to form CaCO3 from calcium ions that would form Ca(OH)2 was investigated. After curing the materials for different ages, the Ca(OH)2 and CaCO3 contents were measured using thermogravimetric analysis; the large void size distributions, dynamic modulus, and compressive strength were tested and compared against Control (no gas added), and N2 foamed and N2 intermixed specimens. A 10% increase in dynamic modulus and compressive strength was measured in CO2 foamed specimens compared to N2 foamed specimens. The increase in mechanical properties was the result of both a narrow void diameter distribution and CaCO3 formation in place of Ca(OH)2. The CO2 foamed cement generation method shows the potential to sequester 0.06 ton of CO2 for every ton of cement which is a CO2 emission reduction of 7.0% of the CO2 production associated with cement production. For the CO2 intermixing method, the void content, compressive strength, and dynamic modulus results were consistent between the Control and CO2 intermixed specimens while the N2 intermixed specimens showed a decrease in compressive strength and dynamic modulus. The CO2 intermixing method showed potential to sequester 0.04 ton of CO2 for every ton of cement or a 4.7% CO2 emission reduction of the total CO2 production associated with cement manufacturing. The reported CO2 emissions are not based on life cycle assessment and do not account for emissions associated with CO2 collection, transportation, and intermixing. The present paper does not investigate the mechanisms of hydration under CO2 intermixing.

Dual-camera off-axis holographic particle tracking velocimetry: Development and application to air-blast swirl spray measurement

Quantifying the droplet field near the atomizer exit poses a challenge due to its three-dimensional (3D), multiscale and turbulent characteristics. An optical measurement method named dual-camera high-resolution holographic particle tracking velocimetry (DCHR-HPTV) is proposed. This method enables the extraction of near-field spatial Sauter mean diameter (SMD) distribution and three-dimensional two-component (3D-2C) velocity field, from off-axis hologram pairs with a frame interval of 6 μs, recorded using two synchronized industrial cameras and pulsed lasers. The system achieves a resolution of 9344 × 7000 pixels with an individual pixel size (dpix) of 3.2 μm. The droplet size measurement range is from 10 μm to above 500 μm with an absolute error within 3 μm. The velocity measurement range is adjustable and is set to be 0 to 38.4 m/s in this study, with errors of 0.23 m/s and 0.15 m/s for horizontal and axial components, respectively. The method is applied to investigate a spray region of 29 mm × 20 mm with a depth of 35 mm (equivalent to 20.3 cm3) at the exit of an air-blast atomizer. The spatial distribution of circumferentially integrated SMD along radial and axial directions is obtained. Statistical analysis is performed on both spatial and quantity distributions of droplet 3D-2C velocities. Concurrently acquired droplet size and velocity in the central toroidal recirculation zone (CTRZ) indicate that both the increasing air pressure and enlarged size range lead to a weakened droplet backflow motion. This method, distinguished by its large field of view and high resolution for particle velocimetry, is suited for dynamic analysis of near-nozzle droplet fields and can be employed in various testing scenarios involving 3D motion of micron-sized particles within multiscale flow fields.

The respective and dependent effects of scattering and bone matrix absorption on ultrasound attenuation in cortical bone.

Cortical bone is characterized by a dense solid matrix permeated by fluid-filled pores. Ultrasound scattering has potential for the non-invasive evaluation of changes in bone porosity. However, there is an incomplete understanding of the impact of ultrasonic absorption in the solid matrix on ultrasound scattering. In this study, maps were derived from scanning acoustic microscopy images of human femur cross-sections. Finite-difference time domain ultrasound scatter simulations were conducted on these maps. Pore density, diameter distribution of the pores, and nominal absorption values in the solid and fluid matrices were controlled. Ultrasound pulses with a central frequency of 8.2 MHz were propagated, both in through-transmission and backscattering configurations. From these data, the scattering, bone matrix absorption, and attenuation extinction lengths were calculated. The results demonstrated that as absorption in the solid matrix was varied, the scattering, absorption, and attenuation extinction lengths were significantly impacted. It was shown that for lower values of absorption in the solid matrix (less than 2 dB/mm), attenuation due to scattering dominates, whereas at higher values of absorption (more than 2 dB/mm), attenuation due to absorption dominates. This will impact how ultrasound attenuation and scattering parameters can be used to extract quantitative information on bone microstructure.

LES of autoignition process in a turbulent droplet-laden mixing layer – impact of an evaporation model and discretisation method

This paper focuses on the numerical modelling of the autoignition process in an ethanol-air mixture within a turbulent droplet-laden temporally evolving mixing layer, utilising the Large Eddy Simulation (LES) method. We compare results obtained by implementing two notably distinct discretisation methods (second-order Total Variation Diminishing – TVD, and fifth-order Weighted Essentially Non-Oscillatory – WENO) in the species and energy transport equations. Additionally, we examine three widely recognised evaporation models (the ‘ D 2 ’ model, the Abramzon–Sirignano model, and a non-equilibrium model based on the Langmuir-Knudsen law). For modelling the combustion process, we employ the Eulerian Stochastic Field method and a laminar chemistry model. The simulations encompass two droplet diameter distributions, one with low and the other with significant diameter non-uniformity. Furthermore, nine distinct initial conditions are considered. Our findings indicate that adjusting the discretisation scheme or the evaporation model can yield simulation outcomes differing to a substantial degree, similar to the impact of modifying the actual properties of the spray droplets or their initial distribution. This is particularly pronounced in the case of sprays featuring a narrowed droplet diameter distribution. We found that the Abramzon–Sirignano model results in the most rapid autoignition. The TVD scheme contributes to a more even spatial distribution of the evaporated fuel, consequently facilitating quicker evaporation and faster autoignition. Using the WENO scheme generates higher fuel vapor gradients near the droplets, leading to less intense evaporation and slower fuel transport in space.

Evaluating the Landscape and Ecological Aspects of Urban Planning in Byblos: A Multi-Faceted Approach to Assessing Urban Forests

Byblos, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as one of Lebanon’s most ancient urban centers, known for its expansive green spaces. However, ongoing urbanization threatens these valuable areas. This study uses a multi-faceted approach to evaluate the structure and landscape attributes of Byblos’ urban and peri-urban forests (UPFs). Landscape canopy cover, diversity indices, forest structure, and a silhouette perceptual test were assessed across 24 streets in the city center, residential zones, and areas with heavy vehicular traffic. Findings reveal that 28% of Byblos’ canopy cover is concentrated mostly in the northeastern region. Native tree species account for 30% of the total, and a notable variation in tree diversity exists among different land-use types (Shannon diversity index (H) was 1.02 for the city center, 1.35 for residential streets, and 0.64 for vehicular areas). Additionally, a normal J-shaped distribution of tree diameters was identified across all street types. This study highlights a correlation between tree silhouettes and visual preferences, with densely spreading canopies being favored. Residential trees demonstrate the highest structural diversity and varied blossoming seasons. This research represents the first investigation into the current state of urban forestry in Byblos and offers recommendations for sustainable management and planning strategies.

Membranes composed of poly(lactic acid)/poly(ethylene glycol) and Ora-pro-nóbis (Pereskia aculeata Miller) extract for dressing applications

Wounds are considered one of the most critical medical conditions that must be managed appropriately due to the psychological and physical stress they cause for patients, as well as creating a substantial financial burden on patients and global healthcare systems. Nowadays, there is a growing interest in developing nanofiber mats loaded with varying plant extracts to meet the urgent need for advanced wound ressings. This study investigated the development and characterization of poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/ poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) nanofiber membranes incorporated with Ora-pro-nóbis (OPN; 12.5, 25, and 50 % w/w) by the solution-blow-spinning (SBS) technique. The PLA/PEG and PLA/PEG/OPN nanofiber membranes were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermal properties (TGA and DSC), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), contact angle measurements and water vapor permeability (WVTR). In addition, the mats were analyzed for swelling properties in vitro cell viability, and fibroblast adhesion (L-929) tests. SEM images showed that smooth and continuous PLA/PEG and PLA/PEG/OPN nanofibers were obtained with a diameter distribution ranging from 171 to 1533 nm. The PLA/PEG and PLA/PEG/OPN nanofiber membranes showed moderate hydrophobicity (~109–120°), possibly preventing secondary injuries during dressing removal. Besides that, PLA/PEG/OPN nanofibers exhibited adequate WVTR, meeting wound healing requirements. Notably, the presence of OPN gave the PLA/PEG membranes better mechanical properties, increasing their tensile strength (TS) from 3.4 MPa (PLA/PEG) to 5.3 MPa (PLA/PEG/OPN), as well as excellent antioxidant properties (Antioxidant activity with approximately 45 % oxidation inhibition). Therefore, the nanofiber mats based on PLA/PEG, especially those incorporated with OPN, are promising options for use as antioxidant dressings to aid skin healing.

Association of Genetic Risk for Age-Related Macular Degeneration with Morphological Features of the Retinal Microvascular Network.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a multifactorial disease encompassing a complex interaction between aging, environmental risk factors, and genetic susceptibility. The study aimed to determine whether there is a relationship between the polygenic risk score (PRS) in patients with AMD and the characteristics of the retinal vascular network visualized by optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). 235 patients with AMD and 97 healthy controls were included. We used data from a previous AMD PRS study with the same group. The vascular features from different retina layers were compared between the control group and the patients with AMD. The association between features and PRS was then analyzed using univariate and multivariate approaches. Significant differences between the control group and AMD patients were found in the vessel diameter distribution (variance: p = 0.0193, skewness: p = 0.0457) and fractal dimension distribution (mean: p = 0.0024, variance: p = 0.0123). Both univariate and multivariate analyses showed no direct and significant association between the characteristics of the vascular network and AMD PRS. The vascular features of the retina do not constitute a biomarker of the risk of AMD. We have not identified a genotype-phenotype relationship, and the expression of AMD-related genes is perhaps not associated with the characteristics of the retinal vascular network.

Centeral Composite Design and Response Surface Methodology for Optimizing the Diameter of Electrospun Polyamide-6,6 Nanofiber mat

Centeral Composite Design and Response Surface Methodology for Optimizing the Diameter of Electrospun Polyamide-6,6 Nanofiber mat