Doses Of Agents Research Articles

Harnessing the potential of exogenous microbial agents: a comprehensive review on enhancing lignocellulose degradation in agricultural waste composting.

Composting converts organic agricultural wastes into value-added products, yet the presence of significant non-biodegradable lignocelluloses hinders its efficiency. The introduction of various exogenous microbial agents has been shown to effectively addresses this challenge. In this context, basing on the microbial enzymatic mechanism for lignocellulose degradation, this paper synthesizes the latest research advancements and practical applications of exogenous microbial agents in agricultural waste composting. Given that the effectiveness of lignocellulose degradation is highly dependent on the waste's inherent characteristics, it is crucial to carefully consider the composition of fungi and bacteria, the dosage of microbial agents, and the composting process operation, tailored to the specific type of agricultural waste. Moreover, the combination of additives with exogenous microbial agents can further enhance the degradation of lignocelluloses and the humification of organic matters. Furthermore, insights into the future research and application trends of exogenous microbial agents in agricultural waste composting was prospected.

Shock index reference ranges in the first 48h postpartum following elective cesarean delivery: A prospective cohort study.

To determine the reference values for the shock index (SI) in postpartum patients undergoing elective cesarean delivery with regional anesthesia. This prospective study was conducted at our tertiary center between August 1, 2023, and March 1, 2024. We calculated the reference values for the SI within the first 48h postpartum for patients who underwent elective cesarean delivery after the 34th week of gestation. We excluded cases of vaginal delivery, post-term delivery (≥42weeks of gestation), multiple pregnancies, stillbirths, fetal abnormalities, maternal cardiac disease, anemia, untreated hypo- or hyperthyroidism, and any hypertensive disorders diagnosed before or during pregnancy. Data collection, measurement of vital signs, and the administration of fluids pre-, intra-, and post-operatively, as well as the use and dosing of uterotonic agents for the prevention of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), were standardized for all patients. Our final analysis included 311 patients, with a mean SI value of approximately 0.7 (0.67-0.77) for all measurement performed within the first 48h of the postpartum period. Further analyses revealed that the 90th and 95th percentiles of SI were around 0.9 throughout the study period. Additionally, SI reference values analyzed at different time points were consistent. Our analysis demonstrated that SI values were not influenced by the presence of a previous caesarean section, the administration of oxytocin or carbetocin, or parity in this particular cohort. Our analyses of vital signs also indicated that the 95th percentile of heart rate (HR) ranged from 96 to 100bpm. An SI value of 0.9 represents the 95th percentile of SI values throughout the first 48h of the postpartum period. Any greater value should be evaluated carefully for potential adverse outcomes.

P-1702. Evaluation of Prescribing Practices and Treatment Failure in Obese Patients Diagnosed with Purulent Skin and Soft Tissue Infections in Outpatient Settings Across Michigan

Abstract Background Obesity has been associated with increased risk of antibiotic treatment failure in skin and soft tissue infections (SSTI), however optimal treatment of SSTIs in obesity is unclear with limited data available. The goal of this analysis was to assess prescribing practices and risk factors for treatment failure in obese patients treated for purulent SSTI with oral antibiotics in the outpatient setting. Methods This retrospective, multicenter cohort study evaluated patients treated for purulent SSTI from February 1, 2020 - August 31, 2023, at Michigan outpatient locations within a health system. Patients ≥ 18 years with a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m2 and creatinine clearance ≥ 30 mL/min who received a ≥ 5-day course of oral antibiotics for purulent SSTI were included. Key exclusion criteria were chronic infections, antibiotic treatment within the past 30 days, and those requiring hospital admission. The primary endpoint was to describe prescribing practices. Secondary endpoints included comparing risk factors for treatment failure, revisit, or admission within 30 days between patients with treatment success (Tx-S) and treatment failure (Tx-F). Treatment failure was defined as a recurrence of infection or need for re-treatment within 30 days. Results 200 patients were included (Tx-S, n = 100; Tx-F, n = 100). Baseline characteristics were similar between groups. Patients received 11 different antibiotic regimens with 26 dosing variations. Cephalexin monotherapy was most commonly prescribed (30%); 67% of patients received MRSA-active therapy, however, no patient received linezolid. Treatment failure was similar between those appropriately dosed (46.4%) vs. under-dosed (54.4%) (p=0.256), those who received 5-7 days of therapy (47.1%) vs. 10-14 days (54.4%) (p=0.311), and those who received MRSA-active therapy (52.2%) vs. no MRSA therapy (45.5%) (p=0.367). Patients treated with clindamycin were more likely to experience treatment failure (73.7% vs 47.5%, p=0.030) and had a higher rate of 30-day revisit (68.4% vs 47%, p=0.075). Conclusion Antimicrobial prescribing for outpatient treatment of purulent SSTIs in obese patients was heterogenous across a Michigan health system. Opportunities exist to optimize agent selection, dosing, and duration of therapy in this population. Disclosures All Authors: No reported disclosures

High-resolution 0.25mm Detector CT Has Limited Impact on Right Adrenal Vein Detectability in Preprocedural Contrast Enhanced CT for Adrenal Venous Sampling.

This study aims to identify factors associated with the detectability of the right adrenal vein (RAV) on preoperative contrast-enhanced CT scans of adrenal venous sampling (AVS) in the era of high-resolution CT (HRCT). In this retrospective study, 36 patients (15 men and 21 women; mean age, 56y) who underwent preoperative contrast-enhanced CT [11 patients in HRCT with 0.25mm detector matrix (Cannon Medical Systems) and 25 patients in conventional multidetector CT with 0.5mm matrix] were included. A contrast agent dose of 600mgI/kg was injected, and CT images were acquired at a fixed scan delay of 50 and 80 seconds. Adrenal venography and venous sampling were performed for the diagnosis of suspected primary hyperaldosteronism. The qualitative detectability of RAV on preoperative CT was assessed with adrenal venography as a reference. Clinical and imaging factors associated with a good detectability of RAV were analyzed via regression analysis. Optimal acquisition timing was assessed by analyzing the time-intensity curve and contrast enhancement pattern of the inferior vena cava using CT data from a separate cohort (n=5). The qualitative detectability of RAV was deemed good in 15 patients and poor in 21 patients. Regression analysis revealed that only heterogeneous enhancement of inferior vena cava with bolus high attenuation, corresponding to an optimal acquisition timing from time-intensity curve analysis, was associated with a good detectability of RAV (odds ratio, 5.06). The use of HRCT was not statistically significant. Optimal acquisition timing is a crucial factor for the detectability of RAV in preprocedural CT for AVS, while high-resolution 0.25 detector CT appears to have limited significance.

Research on the bearing performance of HSCA high-strength preloaded expansion piles in calcareous sand foundation

With the rapid development of infrastructure construction on oceanic reefs, calcareous sand, as the primary medium of these reefs, exhibits unique physical and mechanical properties such as high void ratio, low strength, and susceptibility to particle breakage. These characteristics reduce the bearing capacity and stability of pile foundations in calcareous sand foundations. This study investigates the bearing characteristics of high-strength preloaded expansion piles in calcareous sand foundations, taking into account the influence of HSCA high-performance expansion agent dosage through a series of indoor model tests and in-situ tests. The research delves into the load-settlement curves of expansion piles, the distribution of axial force and side resistance of piles, and the effects of Calcareous sand compaction and reinforcement around the piles. The results indicate that adding the HSCA high-performance expansion agent results in compaction preloading of the Calcareous sand around the pile, significantly increasing the expansion stress on the pile side, thereby enhancing the resistance on both the pile side and pile tip. When the expansion agent dosage is 20%, the ultimate bearing capacity can be increased by 56%, and the ultimate side resistance by 63%. The Coulomb strength theory of non-cohesive soil is employed to accurately calibrate the incremental side resistance of the expansion section. A prediction model for the bearing capacity of the expansion pile is established by combining the side resistance prediction model with the ultimate side resistance load-sharing ratio. The research outcomes provide important guidance for the optimization, design, and construction of high-strength preloaded expansion piles in calcareous sand foundations.

Suggested Dosing of Select Beta-lactam Agents for the Treatment of Antimicrobial-Resistant Gram-Negative Infections in Children.

The Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) publishes annual guidance on the treatment of antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) gram-negative infections. Within the AMR guidance, suggested dosages of antibiotics for adults infected with AMR pathogens are provided. This document serves as a companion document to the IDSA guidance to assist pediatric specialists with dosing β-lactam agents for the treatment of AMR infections in children. A panel of 13 pediatric infectious diseases specialists, including 11 pharmacists and two physicians, reviewed existing pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic, animal, and clinical data for newer β-lactam agents that are available in the United States and suggested for the treatment of AMR infections (i.e., cefiderocol, ceftazidime-avibactam, ceftazidime-avibactam & aztreonam, ceftolozane-tazobactam, imipenem-cilastatin-relebactam, meropenem-vaborbactam, sulbactam-durlobactam). Suggested dosing for ampicillin-sulbactam is also provided given complexities in appropriate dosing for carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii infections. Consensus-based suggested dosing for β-lactam agents used to treat AMR infections in neonates, infants, children, and adolescents and relevant supporting evidence are provided. Content is up to date as of December 1st, 2024. Gaps and limitations to existing data are discussed. Optimizing antibiotic dosing is critical to improving the outcomes of children with AMR infections.

P0416 Efficacy and safety of oral sulphate tablet for bowel preparation in patients with moderate to severe ulcerative colitis: a multicenter cohort study

Abstract Background Proper bowel preparation is essential factor for accurate, high-level colonoscopy. Poor bowel preparation has been reported in up to 30% of patients due to intolerance to high doses of preparation agent. Orafang [Pharmbiop Korea] is a novel sulphate tablet launched in Korea and is being used safely and effectively. According to a previous study, this oral sulphate tablet(OST) has shown effective bowel cleansing results and safety in patients with inactive IBD. However, data on efficacy and safety in patient with active UC are insufficient. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of OSTs in patients with moderate to severe UC. Methods Between January 2022 and July 2024, patients with UC who underwent bowel preparation with OST spilt-dose regimen were enrolled at the Inha university hospital, Samsung Changwon Hospital, and Konkuk University Medical Center. A total 63 patients were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were allocated by disease activity to inactive UC (n=39, 61.9%) or active UC (n=24, 38.1%). We reviewed clinical characteristics, bowel cleansing success rate defined as Boston bowel preparation scale (BBPS) ≥ 8 and safety as assessed by laboratory abnormalities and UC associated complications. Results Both the active and inactive inflammation groups showed high cleansing success rates as measured by the BBPS (87.5% vs. 89.7%, p=0.784), with no statistical difference. No clinically significant laboratory abnormalities were found in either group, except for elevations of uric acid above the upper limit observed in two inactive group patients. No endoscopy related complication or UC related hospitalizations occurred in either group. Conclusion OST was a low-volume agent for colonoscopy that demonstrated a safe and success bowel cleansing rate regardless of UC activity. Our study results suggest that the OST split-dose regimen is effective and safe even in patients with active UC. References Kim, Kyeong Ok, et al. "Efficacy, safety and tolerability of oral sulphate tablet for bowel preparation in patients with inflammatory bowel disease: A multicentre randomized controlled study." Journal of Crohn’s and Colitis 16.11 (2022): 1706-1713. Manes, Gianpiero, et al. "Appropriateness and diagnostic yield of colonoscopy in the management of patients with ulcerative colitis: a prospective study in an open access endoscopy service." Inflammatory bowel diseases 14.8 (2008): 1133-1138. Yang, Hyo-Joon, et al. "Novel sulfate tablet PBK-1701TC versus oral sulfate solution for colon cleansing: A randomized phase 3 trial." Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology 35.1 (2020): 29-36. Calderwood, Audrey H., et al. "Boston Bowel Preparation Scale scores provide a standardized definition of adequate for describing bowel cleanliness." Gastrointestinal endoscopy 80.2 (2014): 269-276.

Mechanical Strength and Mechanism Analysis of Silt Soil Cured by Straw Ash-Calcium Carbide Slag.

Large-scale engineering projects frequently involve pit excavation and wetland landfill operations, resulting in significant silt accumulation that occupies land and adversely affects the environment. Curing technology offers a solution for reusing this waste silt. In this study, straw ash and calcium carbide slag are proposed as effective curing agents for silt soil. Various indoor tests were conducted to evaluate the mechanical properties of the cured silt soil, while X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to analyze its mineral composition and micro-morphology. The results showed that increasing the curing agent dosage significantly improved soil strength. Specifically, at a 10% dosage, the California bearing ratio (CBR) value increased to 18.7%, which is 13.4 times higher than untreated silt soil and exceeds road specifications by 8%. At a 20% dosage, the unconfined compressive strength (UCS) value reached 1.38 MPa, meeting the ≥0.8 MPa requirement for roadbeds. Based on economic considerations, a 20% dosage of straw ash-calcium carbide slag was selected as optimal. Microscopic analysis revealed that the addition of these agents promoted the formation of hydrated calcium silicate, filling pores and enhancing the mechanical properties of the cured soil, resulting in a more dense and stable structure.

Importance of Glomerular Filtration Rate Determination and its Role in Drug-Dose Adjustments with Special Reference to Oncology

Glomerular filtration Rate (GFR) measured in steady state is the best marker of kidney function. Glomerular filtration rate can be determined using exogenous markers like inulin, iothalamate, or iohexol (mGFR), or estimated using endogenous markers like creatinine and cystatin C (eGFR). Several equations are available, CKD-EPI equation is the recommended equation as per current guidelines. CKD-EPI creatinine equation refit (without the race variable) – 2021, and CKD-EPI creatinine - cystatin C equation refit (without the race variable)-2021 are the most recent recommendations from the National Kidney Foundation and the American Society of Nephrology. Dose modifications of many drugs are needed in kidney dysfunction. In chronic kidney disease, as the kidney function is stable, determination of GFR is more accurate and can be used to modify the drug doses. Since the kidney function is not stable in acute kidney injury, determination of GFR is more difficult and it is not accurate. This makes it difficult to use it for determining dose modifications of drugs. Therapeutic drug level monitoring, and adjusting the dose based on pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics knowledge of the drug could be helpful in such cases. In oncology, accurate GFR measurement is crucial for adjusting the doses of chemotherapeutic agents to avoid toxicity and ensure efficacy, as cancer patients often have compromised kidney function due to the disease or its treatment. In this manuscript, we review all these aspects to provide a comprehensive understanding of GFR measurement and its implications in drug-dose adjustments, with a particular focus on how accurate GFR assessment is essential for optimizing chemotherapy dosing in oncology patients to minimize toxicity and maximize therapeutic efficacy. Frequently, medical professionals need to depend on online calculators to get the value of eGFR, as these equations can be complicated. Scientific calculators can be used too, but that is not a common practice in nephrology clinics. The authors have shown in this paper how to use Microsoft Excel to create personal calculators, so that eGFR may be calculated by medical professionals and dialysis staff even when internet is not available due to institutional policies or otherwise. The ‘Appendix’ section given at the end of the paper shows how to create these personal calculators in Microsoft excel. Calculators for CKD-EPI equations can also be developed in excel, however the calculations are more complex, so I prefer using the programming language python to develop these calculators. In this paper, the authors have shown only the excel based calculators for CG equation and MDRD-4 (re-expressed) equation.

EVALUATION OF THE EFFECTS OF MICROBIOLOGICAL AGENTS ON THE REGENERATION OF A NUTRIENT SOLUTION WHEN GROWING VIGNA RADIATA MICROGREENS IN FLOOD & DRAIN SYSTEMS

Purpose. To evaluate the effectiveness of different microbiological agents in improving the nutrient solution quality and stimulating the growth and development of the mung bean (Vigna radiata) microgreens. Methods. Statistical processing, field assessments, analytical calculations. The study was conducted in the laboratory using three main types of microbiological agents: bacteria of the genera Bacillus and Pseudomonas as well as Rhodopseudomonas palustris. The tests were conducted on samples of the mung bean (Vigna radiata) microgreens grown in Flood & Drain systems, with regular monitoring of the nutrient solution parameters (pH, concentrations of major macro- and microelements, toxic compounds). To analyze the effects of microbiological agents, I used standard methods of hydroponics and chemical analyses of the nutrient solution. The plant growth was assessed by measuring plant height, number of leaves and total biomass. Results. It was found that the microbiological agents significantly improved the nutrient solution quality. Bacillus subtilis- and Rhodopseudomonas palustris-based products reduced the concentrations of toxic compounds such as ammonium and nitrates and increased the levels of available nutrients. In the experiment, an improvement in the growth rates of the mung bean (Vigna radiata) microgreens and an increase in the number of leaves and total biomass were noted. An increase in the chlorophyll level in the leaves was observed, indicating an improvement in photosynthetic activity. Discussion. The results confirmed the positive effects of the microbiological agents on the nutrient solution quality and the growth of the mung bean (Vigna radiata) microgreens. The Rhodopseudomonas palustris- and Bacillus subtilis-containing products proved to be more effective compared to the other microbiological agents, supporting published data on their abilities to bioactivate nutrients and reduce toxic decay products. It was demonstrated that the use of the microbiological products based on Rhodopseudomonas palustris and Bacillus subtilis will allow for a reduction in costs for solution regeneration. Conclusions. The use of microbiological agents seems to be a promising approach to improve the quality and extend the period of use of nutrient solutions in Flood & Drain systems and to stimulate the growth of the mung bean (Vigna radiata) microgreens. The microbiological products based on Rhodopseudomonas palustris and Bacillus subtilis were highly efficient in maintaining optimal conditions for the growth and development of the mung bean (Vigna radiata) plants. Further research is recommended to optimize the dosage and application conditions of agents and to elucidate their interactions with other components of hydroponic systems.

Deprescribing in Older Adults With Type 2 Diabetes: Associations With Patients' Perspectives: The Diabetes and Aging Study.

Little is known about how patients' preferences, expectations, and beliefs (jointly referred to as perspectives) influence deprescribing. We evaluated the association of patients' self-reported perspectives with subsequent deprescribing of diabetes medications in older adults with type 2 diabetes. Longitudinal cohort study of 1629 pharmacologically treated adults ages 65-100 years with type 2 diabetes who received care at Kaiser Permanente of Northern California (KPNC) and participated in the Diabetes Preferences and Self-Care survey (2019). The survey asked questions about perspectives regarding the use of diabetes medications. Deprescribing was identified during the 24 months following the survey and defined as any of the following: discontinuation of one or more therapeutic classes, reduction in frequency of daily dosing, reduction in total daily pill count, or reduction in total daily dose for oral hypoglycemic agents. Rates of deprescribing and measures of relative risk were calculated for patients' perspectives and select clinical factors. Models predicting deprescribing were adjusted for age, sex, race/ethnicity, health literacy, baseline number of diabetes medications, duration of diabetes, overtreatment per Endocrine Society guidelines, and KPNC eligibility for targeted deprescribing and weighted to account for the age-stratified complex sampling design and survey response. Six hundred seventy-three (38%) patients experienced deprescribing over a mean follow-up of 23 months. Deprescribing was significantly associated with the following patient perspectives: not expecting to need diabetes medication for life (RR = 1.48, 95% CI: 1.07-2.03) and not recognizing that taking fewer medications could lead to higher blood sugar levels (RR = 1.31, 95% CI: 1.09-1.58). Patients' perspectives may enable or hinder deprescribing, emphasizing the importance of soliciting these perspectives during shared decision-making. Effective deprescribing will benefit from understanding patients' perspectives and fostering patient-provider communication about medication changes throughout the disease course.

Dual targeting of HSP90 and BCL-2 in breast cancer cells using inhibitors BIIB021 and ABT-263.

The incidence of breast cancer has been increasing in recent years, and monotherapy approaches are not sufficient alone in the treatment of breast cancer. In the combined therapy approach, combining two or three different agents in lower doses can mitigate the side effects on living cells and tissues caused by high doses of chemical agents used alone. ABT-263 (navitoclax), a clinically tested Bcl-2 family protein inhibitor, has shown limited success in clinical trials due to the development of resistance to monotherapy in breast cancer cells. This resistance shows that monotherapy approaches are inadequate and more effective treatment strategies are needed. It is the ability of HSP90 inhibitors to destabilize many oncoproteins that are critical for the survival of cancer cells. This study aimed to examine the anticancer activity of the combination of ABT-263 with BIIB021, a new generation HSP90 inhibitor, on two widely used breast cancer cell lines: MCF-7 (ER-positive) and MDA-MB-231 (triple-negative breast cancer, TNBC). These cell lines were selected to represent distinct breast cancer subtypes with different molecular characteristics and clinical behaviors. Single and combined cytotoxic effects of this agents on MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell lines were determined using the MTT cell viability test. The combined use of these two agents showed a synergistic effect, and this effect was assigned using the Chou and Talalay method. mRNA and protein levels of apoptosis-related genes Bax, Bcl-2, Casp9, and Heat Shock Proteins HSP27, HSP70, and HSP90 were analyzed using Quantitative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western Blotting, respectively. The cytotoxicity analysis, combined with the application of the Chou-Talalay method, demonstrated that the BIIB021 and ABT-263 combination exhibited significantly greater anticancer activity compared to the individual effects of either BIIB021 or ABT-263 in breast cancer cell lines. The analysis of mRNA and protein levels indicated that the BIIB021+ABT-263 combination may have triggered the intrinsic apoptotic pathway in breast cancer cells. This study showed thatco-administration of ABT-263 and BIIB021 agents exhibited synergistic cytotoxic effects and increased the expression of apoptosis-related genes in breast cancer cell lines.

Predictive Factors for Post-Thrombotic Syndrome in Patients with Deep Vein Thrombosis Treated with AngioJet Pharmacomechanical Thrombectomy: A Retrospective Single-Center Study.

BACKGROUND Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is one of the most common peripheral vascular diseases. AngioJet pharmacomechanical thrombectomy has been widely used to treat DVT. This study evaluated outcomes of patients with DVT after pharmacomechanical thrombectomy and determined potential risk factors associated with prognosis. MATERIAL AND METHODS A retrospective review was conducted to enroll patients with DVT who received AngioJet pharmacomechanical thrombectomy from July 2018 to May 2020. Clinical data and outcome measures, including baseline demographic information, procedure details, adverse events, incidence of post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS), and Villalta scores were collected. The logistic regression modeling began with a univariate analysis to identify factors with statistically significant differences. Multivariate analysis revealed predictive factors of the development of PTS. RESULTS Eighty-nine patients were recruited and divided into 2 groups according to the presence of PTS: 22 patients in the PTS group and 67 patients in the non-PTS group. All cases were technically successful. Total median dosage of thrombolytic agents was 260 million units (range, 160-440 million units) and median duration of hospital stay was 5 days (range, 2-15 days). No major adverse events were observed. Univariate analysis showed statistical significance for all factors tested, except age, sex, and leg varicosities at baseline between the groups. Multivariate logistic regression confirmed that only time from onset to treatment (OR=1.745; 95% CI=1.316-2.315) was associated with incidence of PTS after pharmacomechanical thrombectomy. CONCLUSIONS AngioJet pharmacomechanical thrombectomy is an effective therapeutic approach for DVT. Time from onset to treatment was an independent factor in predicting development of PTS.

A recyclable T-ZIF-8/SnO2@PAN photocatalytic porous fibrous membrane used for CO2 reduction

The challenge of separating and recycling high-performance photocatalysts often results in resource wastage and secondary environmental contamination. Therefore, the advancement of recyclable photocatalysts has emerged as a frontier area of interest in the domain of photocatalytic CO2 reduction. In this work, T-ZIF-8/SnO2@PAN-PVP fibrous membranes were constructed with T-ZIF-8/SnO2 as a photocatalyst, polyacrylonitrile (PAN) as a matrix, polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) as a porogen utilizing electrospinning technique. By regulating the variable parameters, the effects of spinning solution concentration, conductive salt dosage, porogenic agent dosage and their effects on fiber microscopic morphology were investigated, and the process parameters were optimized to obtain the best microscopic morphology, and then the photocatalytic porous fibers were obtained through the water impregnation treatment. A comparative analysis of the CO2 reduction capability of photocatalytic powders, fibers, and porous fibers was performed, alongside an exploration of the potential reaction mechanism. The results indicate that the T-ZIF-8/SnO2@PAN-PVP porous fiber membrane irradiated by visible light for 4 h demonstrates excellent CO2 reduction efficiency, achieving CO, CH4, and H2 production rates of 14.3, 7.09, and 8.57 μmol·g−1·h−1, respectively. Durability tests through repetitive experiments have validated that the T-ZIF-8/SnO2@PAN/ZnCl2 porous fiber membrane retains over 90 % of its initial photocatalytic activity after four cycles, thereby facilitating the sustainable recycling and reuse of photocatalysts.

Real-world evaluation of intracardiac echocardiography guided radio-frequency catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation: a retrospective cohort study

Intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) has been used to guide radio-frequency catheter ablation (RFCA) for better catheter navigation and less radiation exposure in treating atrial fibrillation (AF). This retrospective cohort study enrolled 227 AF patients undergoing ICE- or traditional fluoroscopy (TF)-guided RFCA for AF in a tertiary hospital. ICE was used more often in patients with atrial tachycardia [odds ratio (OR) 3.692, p = 0.062], a higher score of Hypertension, Abnormal renal/liver function, Stroke, Bleeding history or predisposition, Labile INR, Elderly, Drugs/alcohol concomitantly (OR 1.541, p = 0.050), or heart failure (OR 2.098, p = 0.156). Based on the comparisons of 47 propensity score-matched pairs from 156 patients only undergoing pulmonary vein isolation (PVI), patients using ICE exhibited a significantly higher success rate in the first transseptal puncture (100% vs. 87.2%, p = 0.041) and less radiation exposure [utilization of radiographic contrast agent (2.7 ml vs. 6.0 ml, p < 0.001), fluoroscopy time (5.7 min vs. 7.6 min, p = 0.026), and fluoroscopy dose (208.4 mGy vs. 332.3 mGy, p = 0.024)] than patients using TF. Other perioperative efficacy outcomes (PVI success, free from AF after RFCA and complications) showed no difference between the matched pairs. ICE can enhance procedural safety and efficiency of RFCA, particularly for more complex patient profiles, in real-world setting.

Optimizing foam concrete performance using mixed foaming method: impact of mixing speed, mixing duration, and foam dosage

Foamed concrete has gained significant attention, especially in the field of thermal insulation and acoustic insulation. However, all production methods are based on the pre-foaming method, while the mixed foaming method is an infrequent approach that should be considered and could be challenging. For this reason, this paper attempt to highlight this method and valuate it on par with the pre-foaming method in the production of foamed concrete, both in terms of structure and performance. These performances are directly dependent on the pore structure of this material (pore size, porosity rate, and pore distribution). Therefore, a process has been developed for sample preparation to achieve a final product with a well-controlled size and distribution of porosity, meeting the desired performance criteria. This process involves varying the following parameters: mixing speed (from 400 to 1000 rpm), mixing time (from 2 to 12 minutes), and the dosage of foaming agent (from 0.05 to 0.2%). The effect of mixing speed, mixing duration and the dosage of the foaming agent on the generated foam rate, density, structure at the millimeter scale, structure at the micrometer scale, and thermal conductivity was demonstrated. The obtained results show that with a generated foam rate extending to 79%, a density reaching 428 kg/m³, and a thermal conductivity achieving 0.181 w/k.m, the mixed foaming method becomes an important and competitive approach to the pre-foaming method in the production of foamed concrete.

Research on Mechanical Properties of Cement Emulsified Asphalt Mortar Under the Influence of Water-to-Cement Ratios and Water-Reducing Agent

To understand the mechanical behavior of CRTS (China Railway Track System) II cement emulsified asphalt mortar (CA mortar), this study tested the compressive strength and flexural strength of CA mortar at different ages under varying water-to-cement ratios and dosages of water-reducing agent. Based on X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results, the hydration products and microstructure of CA mortar at different ages were analyzed. The main conclusions are as follows. As the water-to-cement ratio increases, the compressive strength and flexural strength of CA mortar generally exhibit a decreasing trend. The strength increases rapidly in the early stages, with the 7-day compressive strength reaching over 80% of the 28-day compressive strength, and the 7-day flexural strength reaching over 93% of the 28-day flexural strength. As the dosage of water-reducing agent increases, both the compressive strength and flexural strength of CA mortar first increase and then decrease, with a reasonable range of water-reducing agent dosage being between 0.2% and 1.0%, and 0.5% is most appropriate. The hydration reaction of CA mortar is nearly complete at 3 days, with the increase in ages, the cement hydration slows down due to the coating action of asphalt, and the strength no longer changes greatly. Hydration products are mainly Ettringite, which is the main source of strength of CA mortar. After the emulsified asphalt breaks, it adsorbs onto the hydration products and sand surfaces, gradually forming a continuous phase, which enhances the structural toughness of the CA mortar.

Mechanical Properties and Microstructure of Geopolymer-Based PFSS Synthesized from Excavated Loess.

Pre-mixed fluidized solidified soil (PFSS) has the advantages of pumpability, convenient construction, and a short setting time. This paper took the excavated loess in Fuzhou as the research object and used cement-fly-ash-ground granulated blast furnace slag-carbide slag as a composite geopolymer system (CFGC) to synthesize PFSS. This study investigated the fluidity and mechanical strength of PFSS under different water-solid ratios and curing agent dosages; finally, the microstructure of the composite geopolymer system-pre-mixed fluidized solidified soil (CFGC-PFSS) was characterized. The results showed that when the water-solid ratio of PFSS increased from 0.46 to 0.54, the fluidity increased by 77 mm, and the flexural strength and compressive strength at 28 d decreased to 450.8 kPa and 1236.5 kPa. When the curing agent dosage increased from 15% to 25%, the fluidity increased by 18.0 mm, and the flexural strength and compressive strength at 28 d increased by 1.7 times and 1.6 times. A large number of needle-like AFt, C-S-H gel, and C-(A)-S-H gel coagulate with soil particles to form a three-dimensional reticular structure, which is the mechanism of the strength formation of PFSS under the action of CFGC.

Preparation and Physicochemical Properties of Inorganic Solidified Foam for Forest Fire

ABSTRACTTo optimize the performance of inorganic solidified foam and apply it effectively in forest fire fighting, three different ionic surfactants were combined with four viscosity‐increasing foam stabilizers. Then, the ratio of inorganic solidified foam was changed to investigate the effects of four factors, namely, water–binder ratio, quick‐setting agent dosing, fly ash dosing, and foam dosing, on the foaming multiple and stability of the inorganic solidified foam. Finally, the fluidity and adhesion ability of the inorganic solidified foam were tested with different quick‐setting agent dosages and foam dosages, and the optimal working condition range of the inorganic solidified foam was determined based on the test results. The results showed that when SDS:APG = 7:1, the foaming multiples of the foam were higher and it could reach 52.5 times when the surfactant content in the solution was 1.2 wt%; among the four viscosity‐increasing stabilizers, the stabilizing effect of xanthan gum was the best. The inorganic solidified foam exhibits an extended foaming time when utilizing a water–binder ratio of 0.45 and a fly ash dosage of 0.5. To ensure optimal mobility and a specific adhesion thickness, it is recommended to maintain a foam dosage of 6 V or higher, with mobility falling within the 11–13 range. The preferred ratio for creating inorganic solidified foam involves a water–binder ratio of 0.45, a 0.6 wt% dosage of accelerating agent, a 0.5 fly ash content, and a foam mixing of 7 V.

Natural Bleach Using Lemon Peel

Commercial bleach, as indicated by Yosi Santika Silitonga et al. in 2020, contains chemicals designed to eliminate dirt and stains. In light of this, a solution involving natural bleach derived from lemon peel has been suggested for cleaning purposes. This natural bleach can be produced by synthesizing lemon peel as the primary ingredient and combining it with ethanol and vinegar. The blend of lemon peel, ethanol, and vinegar forms an effective natural bleach agent. Experimental tests were carried out to assess the bleaching efficiancy of lemon peel extract on cotton fabric by varying the amounts of lemon peel in each mixture. Seven different doses of natural agents were tested for each bleach mixture. The findings demonstrated that lemon peel extract is proficient in lightening fabric color and removing stains while preserving fabric integrity, owing to the presence of citric acid in lemon peel which acts as a natural cleaning agent. Citric acid aids in dirt and grime removal, as well as providing a bleaching effect on fabrics, while ethanol functions as an additional cleaning agent and solvent. Additionally, vinegar with its acidic properties contributes to the bleaching process. The study also examined various parameters such as pH levels, the duration needed for lemon peel to eliminate stains on cotton fabric, and the toxicity of the bleach. Time measurements were taken during cotton cloth stain removal tests using natural bleach, based on the quantity of doses applied. Consequently, the bleach testing revealed that the most effective dose for dirt removal is a hundred grams of lemon peel, achieving stain removal within two minutes. It was observed that increasing the amount of lemon peel led to faster dirt removal, showcasing accelerated stain elimination on fabric and delivering a notably clean outcome. In summary, lemon peel extract presents a sustainable alternative with potent bleaching properties. The advantages of natural bleach encompass efficient cleaning without residual harmful chemicals, promoting environmentally conscious practices.