Extended Period Research Articles

Polyvinylpyrrolidone hydrogel coating for ureteral stent: Safety and performance evaluation.

Ureteral stents are commonly used in urology. However, complications such as encrustation and infection on the surface of the stent, and injury to the ureteral mucosa can occur after implantation, causing discomfort for patients. We intend to confirm the biosafety of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) hydrophilic coating and its lubrication properties for surface modification of ureteral stents to reduce friction and improve patient comfort. Based on our previous studies, we have developed a PVP hydrophilic coating for surface modification of ureteral stents. We firstly investigated the cytotoxicity, intradermal irritation, delayed type hypersensitivity, and acute systemic reactions of stent coating extracts. We further characterized the break strength, retention strength, and dynamic friction of the stent. The cell survival rate of all experimental groups was greater than 70%. No hypersensitivity reaction, systemic toxicity reaction, or obvious intradermal reaction were observed. The above results indicate that the test results of the modified stent meet the requirements of ISO 10993-5: 2009 (Cytotoxicity); ISO 10993-10:2021 (Sensitization and Irritation); ISO 10993-11:2017 (Acute Systemic Toxicity). After soaking in artificial urine for an extended period, there was no obvious change in its super-slip performance. Our results confirm the safety and lubrication characteristics of PVP hydrophilic coating for ureteral stent surface modification. The performance of this coating has the potential to reduce complications after stent implantation, thereby improving patient comfort, reducing medical burden, and has a good clinical application prospect.

Characterization of Water-Based Anti-Corrosion and Anti-Fouling Coating in the Heat Exchanger Tube of Gas Water Heater

Due to the fouling and corrosion issues with gas water heater heat exchangers during use, a water-based coating is created using the sol-gel method and applied to the inner surface of the copper tube of the heat exchangers. The water-based coating can reduce the surface energy of copper that is oxygen-free by 82.40 % and has outstanding hydrophobicity. The coating's adhesion strength was 8.46 MPa, and its wet adhesion reduction rate was only 0.0375 MPa·d-1 when submerged in a bath of water at a constant temperature. Its water contact angle remained above 110° even after being abraded by sandpaper, demonstrating its excellent wear resistance. At a constant temperature of 45 °C, the corrosion experiment was carried out in salt, acid, and alkali solutions. The maximum corrosion rate of the coating was 3.24 × 10-2mg∙(cm2∙h)-1, which was only 20.85 % of that of the oxygen-free copper substrate. The dynamic fouling experiment shows that the coating can effectively inhibit fouling growth, prolong the fouling induction period and reduce the average fouling rate. By factoring in the fouling thermal resistance and the coating thermal resistance, the overall heat transfer coefficient of the copper tube was computed. The results demonstrate that after applying this water-based coating, the copper tube can continue to have a high heat transfer coefficient for an extended period, ensuring the continuous and effective operation of the heat exchanger and having practical application value.

A 52-week efficacy and safety study of enavogliflozin versus dapagliflozin as an add-on to metformin in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: ENHANCE-M extension study.

To evaluate the long-term safety and efficacy of enavogliflozin 0.3 mg/day added to metformin in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. After 24 weeks of a randomized, double-blind treatment period with enavogliflozin 0.3 mg/day (n = 101) or dapagliflozin 10 mg/day (n = 99) added to metformin, all patients received enavogliflozin 0.3 mg/day plus metformin for an additional 28 weeks during the open-label extension period. Eighty-two patients continued enavogliflozin (maintenance group), and 77 were switched from dapagliflozin to enavogliflozin (switch group). All adverse drug reactions (ADR) were mild in severity. In the maintenance group, ADRs (cystitis and vaginal infection) were reported in two patients (2.44%) during 52 weeks. In the switch group, ADR (hypoglycaemia) was reported in one patient (1.30%) during a 28-week open-label extension period. At week 52, glycated haemoglobin and fasting plasma glucose were significantly lower than at the baseline, by 0.85% and 29.08 mg/dl, respectively, in the maintenance group (p < .0001 for both), and by 0.81% and 32.77 mg/dl, respectively, in the switch group (p < .0001 for both). At week 52, 68.92% of patients from the maintenance group and 64.29% from the switch group achieved glycated haemoglobin <7%. A significant increase in the urine glucose-creatinine ratio was observed at week 52, by 58.81 g/g and 63.77 g/g in the maintenance and switch groups, respectively (p < .0001). Enavogliflozin added to metformin was tolerated well for up to 52 weeks and provided continual glycaemic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus, along with a significant increase in the urine glucose-creatinine ratio.

The evolution of regional triple helix food sector SME interventions: a longitudinal study, Wales, UK

ABSTRACT This paper explores the effectiveness of regional intervention strategies aimed at enhancing ‘low-tech’ SMEs’ sustainable competitive advantage and innovation activities, employing the food sector in Wales (UK) as a case study. It utilizes the triple helix model to analyse these interventions, emphasising collaboration between government, academia, and industry to stimulate knowledge-based economic development. The food sector represents an ideal subject for innovation-focused regional development policies because of its global importance, sustainability concerns, health impact and economic outcomes. A mixed-methods longitudinal case study approach was taken, evaluating a series of intervention programmes over an extended period (12 years in total), all funded by the European Union via the Welsh Government. Data sources included program reports, management committee reports, interviews, and case study testimonials. Frequent intervention activities included quality systems development, technical support, and skills training. They notably improved product and processing innovation for SMEs, key performance indicators revealing over 1,800 new products, safeguarding around 2,300 food sector jobs, and supporting 64 new business start-ups. Findings emphasized the value of consistent policies over an extended time period, albeit with the potential for lock-in effects. Future programme goals should be adapted for broader sustainable development outcomes – these are not uniquely Welsh challenges.

Process intensification of metal solvent extraction studies using a miniaturized solvent extraction plant

This study examines the potential of a miniaturized solvent extraction plant (MSXP) to improve the efficiency and reproducibility of laboratory and pilot-scale metallurgical studies that typically require extended testing periods. The MSXP has been designed to replace conventional solvent extraction (SX) apparatus and aims to reduce start-up time, time to reach equilibrium, and overall test time. Two copper solvent extraction (Cu-SX) research campaigns were conducted to test the functionality, ease of operation, modularity, and reproducibility of the MSXP. The first campaign quantified the extraction efficiency and net copper transfer, while the second campaign operated the MSXP in a semicontinuous countercurrent flow configuration with three extraction and two stripping stages. The main variables studied in the first campaign are the number of stages (1-3), volumetric flow rates (O/A, 1-3), and organic phase residence time in the micro-contactor (0.7-2.4 min). The results demonstrate that the MSXP can work with very low stage efficiencies (48%), while achieving high copper recoveries (> 90%). At the stripping circuit level, we show that the MSXP can operate at superior stage efficiencies (> 100%), with low copper recoveries (30%–55%). The reproducibility evaluation also demonstrates high statistical confidence (< 6% CV) in the obtained process values. The MSXP offers great flexibility in net copper transfer and can be used to benchmark and emulate a wide range of Cu-SX systems. Experimental Cu-SX campaigns can be run in about 60 min while investing roughly US$1.4/h on reagents, which is significantly lower compared to typical campaigns that can last from days to weeks to reach reliable research outcomes and require about US$62/h for reagents. The potential of MSXP extends to more elaborate solvent extraction systems, specifically those designed to purify energy-critical elements like lithium, nickel, cobalt, or rare-earth elements. This study demonstrates the promise of process intensification approaches for improving the efficiency of laboratory and pilot-scale SX studies, which can help in reducing time, reagents, and energy consumption while improving the reproducibility of results.

IoT energy efficiency routing protocol using FHO‐based clustering and improved CSO model‐based routing in MANET

SummaryMany protocols, services, and electrical devices with built‐in sensors have been developed in response to the rapid expansion of the Internet of Things. Mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs) consist of a collection of autonomous mobile nodes that can form an ad hoc network in the absence of any pre‐existing infrastructure. System performance may suffer due to the changeable topology of MANETs. Since most mobile hosts operate on limited battery power, energy consumption poses the biggest challenge for MANETs. Both network lifetime and throughput improve when energy usage is reduced. However, existing approaches perform poorly in terms of energy efficiency. Scalability becomes a significant issue in large‐scale networks as they grow, leading to overhead associated with routing updates and maintenance that can become unmanageable. This article employs a MANET routing protocol combined with an energy conservation strategy. The clustering hierarchy is used in MANETs to maximize the network's lifespan, considering its limited energy resources. In the MANET communication process, the cluster head (CH) is selected using Fire Hawk Optimization (FHO). When choosing nodes to act as a cluster for an extended period, CH election factors in connectivity, mobility, and remaining energy. This process is achieved using an optimized version of the Ad hoc On‐Demand Distance Vector (AODV) routing protocol, utilizing Improved Chicken Swarm Optimization (ICSO). In comparison to existing protocols and optimization techniques, the proposed method offers an extended network lifespan ranging from 90 to 160 h and reduced energy consumption of 80 to 110 J, as indicated by the implementation results.

Forecasting Stock Prices Using Time-Series Analysis, Regression Learning, and Deep Learning Models

For an extended period, scholars have been crafting a dependable and precise forecasting model for predicting stock prices. Predictive models may meticulously and accurately anticipate future stock prices if they are properly created and improved, according to the literature. This paper presents a number of learning-based, econometric, and time series models for predicting stock prices. Here, the data from WIPRO, SBI, and APOLLO PHARMA from January 2000 to December 2021 was utilized to train and test the models in order to determine that algorithms worked in what industry. This study includes two Regression models (Random Forest and MARS), two deep learning-based models (basic RNN and LSTM), one econometric model (ARIMA), and one-time series model (Holt- Winters Exponential Smoothing). It has been demonstrated that LSTM is the best deep learning model and that MARS is the greatest machine learning model. But overall, MARS has shown to be the greatest-performing model in sales forecasting for all sectors: Information technology (using values from WIPRO), Finance (using values from SBI), and Health (using data from APOLLO PHARMA). Keywords— Time Series Analysis, Forecast stock price, Recurrent Neural Networks, LSTM, Random Forest, MARS.

Dynamics and Dependencies in Regional Collaboration for Biodiversity Restoration: Reflections from the Netherlands.

Biodiversity restoration on a landscape level requires people with different backgrounds to connect and collaborate over an extended period of time. Hence, understanding how conservation and restoration goals are negotiated and achieved necessitates an understanding of the dynamics of the social fabric: the social networks and interactions that develop, underpin, and sustain collective action. This paper identifies patterns and factors that have contributed to constructive collaboration for biodiversity in the rural area of Ooijpolder-Groesbeek, which has been at the vanguard of nature and landscape development in the Netherlands. We conducted a historical analysis of the period between 1985 and 2022, based on a broad range of literature and interviews with key actors in the region. We provide a narrative account of the tipping points and the preceding processes that propelled the region to its current state. The emergence of these tipping points is analyzed through the lens of a conceptual framework on the dynamic interplay between practices, social interactions, events, and circumstances. Our findings reveal how an integrative landscape approach, the use of suitable boundary objects, and continuous network building and relation management across various levels have contributed to the success of the collective effort.

Antitumor Strategies Targeting Peptidergic Systems

Peptidergic systems show promise as targets for fighting tumors. While some peptides encourage the growth and spread of tumor cells and angiogenic mechanisms, others display antitumor properties. As such, peptide ligands and receptor antagonists could be used as antitumor agents alone or in conjunction with chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Peptide receptor antagonists can counteract the oncogenic effects of specific peptides by inducing apoptosis in various types of tumor cells, hindering cancer cell migration and inhibiting angiogenesis. Peptides and peptide receptor antagonists are not currently used in clinical practice as antitumor agents. Still, aprepitant, a neurokinin 1 receptor antagonist, is a promising candidate due to its ability to promote apoptosis in many cancer cells. However, to utilize aprepitant as an anticancer agent, the dosage must be increased and administered for a more extended period. Moving beyond current protocols for aprepitant’s use as an antiemetic is essential. Additionally, a common anticancer strategy with aprepitant is possible regardless of cancer cell type. Finally, combining aprepitant with chemotherapy or radiotherapy is encouraged.

Nexus between environmental degradation and climate change during the times of global conflict: Evidence from CS-ARDL model

There has been a substantial amount of research done on air pollution, both in terms of its history and its state at the present time. On the other hand, the ever–changing influence of climatic variables such as sun hour, air pressure, and wind speed has gotten just a small portion of the attention. This divide becomes even more apparent when one considers the ongoing conflicts that are taking place between Russia and Ukraine as well as the current state of the environment's response to climate change. In order to bridge this research gap, the goal of this study is to explore the ways in which climatological factors impact air quality, especially levels of PM2.5 and ozone, in a range of cities situated in India, during 2020–2021. Studies conducted over brief and extended periods of time have made it abundantly evident that sun hour, wind speed, and humidity have an impact on ozone levels. The study also sheds light on prospective policies that may be implemented in the future, such as those relating to carbon emission and particulate pollution such as PM2.5, in order to successfully battle the negative impacts that these variables have on the environment.

Sporadic gastrinoma with refractory benign esophageal stricture: A case report

BACKGROUND Gastrinoma is characterized by an excessive release of gastrin, leading to hypersecretion of gastric acid, subsequently resulting in recurrent peptic ulcers, chronic diarrhea, and even esophageal strictures. This case report aims to improve awareness and facilitate early diagnosis and treatment of gastrinoma by presenting a rare case of gastrinoma with refractory benign esophageal stricture (RBES). Additionally, it highlights the persistent challenges that gastroenterologists encounter in managing RBES. CASE SUMMARY This case demonstrates a patient with gastrinoma who developed RBES and complete esophageal obstruction despite management with maximal acid suppressive therapy, multiple endoscopic bougie dilations and endoscopic incisional therapy (EIT). CONCLUSION It is essential to diagnose gastrinoma as early as possible, as inadequately controlled acid secretion over an extended period increases the risk of developing severe esophageal strictures. In patients with esophageal strictures causing complete luminal obstruction, blind reopening EIT presents challenges and carries a high risk of perforation.

Boko Haram insurgency and sustainable development in north-east, Nigeria, 2014-2022

The problem of insecurity and terrorism became heightened in 2014 after a series of attacks by Boko Haram on individuals, properties; government installations, etc. especially in North-East Nigeria. The study examines Boko Haram Insurgency and sustainable development in North East Nigeria, using the thematic approach of Insurgency and sustainable development. Qualitative analysis was strictly used based on purposive sampling gathered from four states of the northeastern part of Nigeria; Borno, Yobe, Bauchi, and Gombe. The Sustainable Development Theory was used to analyze the Insurgency's impact on economic, social, and human development, and the climate/environmental challenges. The researcher used both primary and secondary sources to collect information. The research findings indicate that the North East region and its people suffered grievous economic and political damages from the activities of the insurgents, with the catastrophic collapse of economic, social, and political structures, and processes, and a likelihood of the State itself collapsing and breaking into fragments if the insurgency had continued unabated for a more extended period. The study recommended that the provision of immediate and comprehensive mental health diagnosis, treatment, and counselling will play an essential and critical role in helping people exposed to insurgency recover quickly from the emotional pains and trauma that come with such exposure.

Consequences of Climate Change at World Level: a Theoretical Review

IPCC defines climate change as any “change in the state of the climate that can be identified (e.g., using statistical tests) by changes in the mean and/or the variability of its properties, and that persists for an extended period, typically decades or longer. It refers to any change in climate over time, whether due to natural variability or because of human activity” (IPCC, 2007a, p. 30). Climate change phenomena is very threating which impacts the lifeforms and our livelihoods on this earth. The world has been experiencing frequent extreme environmental conditions. This phenomenon is not a frequent/instant event, it is a consolidated outcome of so many years due to anthropogenic and natural causes. The present paper reported the various causes and consequences of climate change at the world level. In fact, many organisation/committees/conferences were established to overcome the adverse effects of climate change and for the survival of the living organisms, respectively. Secondary data is used to identify variability of climatic features and the same information from various reports, research articles, and other sources. This review is an assessment of climate change phenomena at the worldwide level. It is found that the government participation is necessary for the development processes. There should be some rules and regulations for developed and developing countries to overcome the variability of climate change. To sum up, mitigating the impacts of climate change must be of the utmost importance, and hence, this global threat requires global pledge to report its horrible consequences to safeguard global sustenance.

Comparison of the oncolytic activity of a replication-competent and a replication-deficient herpes simplex virus 1.

In 2015, the oncolytic herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) T-VEC (talimogene laherparepvec) was approved for intratumoral injection in non-resectable malignant melanoma. To determine whether viral replication is required for oncolytic activity, we compared replication-deficient HSV-1 d106S with replication-competent T-VEC. High infectious doses of HSV-1 d106S killed melanoma (n = 10), head-and-neck squamous cell carcinoma (n = 11), and chondrosarcoma cell lines (n = 2) significantly faster than T-VEC as measured by MTT metabolic activity, while low doses of T-VEC were more effective over time. HSV-1 d106S and, to a lesser extent T-VEC, triggered caspase-dependent early apoptosis as shown by pan-caspase inhibition and specific induction of caspases 3/7, 8, and 9. HSV-1 d106S induced a higher ratio of apoptosis-inducing infected cell protein (ICP) 0 to apoptosis-blocking ICP6 than T-VEC. T-VEC was oncolytic for an extended period of time as viral replication continued, which could be partially blocked by the antiviral drug aciclovir. High doses of T-VEC, but not HSV-1 d106S, increased interferon-β mRNA as part of the intrinsic immune response. When markers of immunogenic cell death were assessed, ATP was released more efficiently in the context of T-VEC than HSV-1 d106S infection, whereas HMGB1 was induced comparatively well. Overall, the early oncolytic effect on three different tumour entities was stronger with the non-replicative strain, while the replication-competent virus elicited a stronger innate immune response and more pronounced immunogenic cell death.

Empirical evidence of emissions discourse related to food, beverage, and tobacco production in leading manufacturing nations.

The proliferation of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions has resulted in significant environmental challenges worldwide, particularly within industrialized nations. The present paper tries to investigate the role of food, beverages, and tobacco in mitigating CO2 emissions in the top industrial countries. Economic growth and renewable and non-renewable energy consumption are integrated as control variable in the empirical model. The study applied the pooled mean group-autoregressive distributed lag (PMG-ARDL) model proposed by (J Appl Econ, 16:289-326, 2001) and Granger causality test for causalities directions. The empirical outcomes suggest the presence of cross-sectional dependence, and variables are integrated of order one and cointegrated. Long-run estimates revealed the presence of inversed U curve proving the validity of the environmental Kuznets curve. Also, the results show that renewable energy (RE) consumption contribute in reducing emissions, while non-renewable energy (NRE) and food, beverages, and tobacco (FBT) led to increase emissions level in the long run. Granger shows bidirectional long-run relationship between CO2 emissions, non-renewable energy, and economic growth. Moreover, Granger recorded no causality between food, beverages, and tobacco and any other variable. We recommend that firms engaged in the production of food, beverages, and tobacco products are increasingly urged to make investments in clean technologies powered by renewable energy sources for their manufacturing processes. This is considered a necessary step to achieve a significant reduction in CO2 emissions over an extended period.

Flame characteristics and abnormal combustion of ammonia-diesel dual-fuel engine with considering ammonia energy fractions

Carbon neutrality is a significant challenge but also an essential opportunity for internal combustion engines (ICE), and fueled with low-carbon fuels is the key for ICE to reduce carbon emissions. Ammonia is a carbon-free fuel, whereas ammonia-diesel dual-fuel (ADDF) combustion can provide efficient and clean combustion of ammonia. In this study, the flame characteristics and abnormal combustion of ADDF engines are studied by considering ammonia energy fractions and diesel injection timings. The results show that a high ammonia energy fraction led to an extended period of combustion, while the CA05 first advances and then decreases with the decrease of ammonia energy fraction. This phenomenon indicates that an easily ignitable ammonia-air mixture is also important for ammonia-diesel dual-fuel ignition. Besides, an optimal SOI is needed to maximize the promoting effect of ignited fuel on ammonia combustion, and the optimal SOI changes with the ammonia energy fraction. Flame images confirm that the weightiness of the auto-ignition and flame propagation changes with the SOI, and the auto-ignition kernels gradually reduce and flame propagation plays a more and more important role as the SOI advances. At high loads, knocking combustion will also occur for ADDF engines, although the knock intensity is low. Besides, due to the enhancement effect of the knocking pressure wave, the flames show a strong white light at the knocking onset. The current results can help understand the combustion process and thus find the optimization method of ADDF engines.

Relationship of ENSO and Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) to Characterize Drought at Different Locations of Punjab, India

Drought is generally considered as a deficiency in precipitation over an extended period usually a season or more. It is a natural hazard that differs from other hazards since it has a slow onset, evolves over months or even years and its severity is often difficult to determine. Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) is a widely used index to characterize drought on a range of timescales. In this study SPI was calculated annually and season (Kharif and Rabi) wise to correlate drought with ENSO events at different locations of Punjab viz. Amritsar, Ballowal Saunkhri, Bathinda, Ludhiana and Patiala. The historical data of rainfall for different locations of Punjab viz. Amritsar (1971-2017), Ballowal Saunkhri (1984-2018), Bathinda (1971-2018), Ludhiana (1971-2018) and Patiala (1971-2018) were collected from the Department of Climate Change and Agricultural Meteorology, PAU, Ludhiana and Met Centre, India Meteorological Department, Chandigarh. It was found that at all the locations very strong El Nino of 1997-98 resulted in above normal rainfall. Drought like conditions was observed during El Nino years as value of SPI was negative but with few exceptions. The SPI values were positive during La Nina and neutral years. Droughts during kharif season were found to be more related to El Nino years compared to La Nina years.

Continuous monitoring of body temperature for objective detection of health and safety risks in construction sites: An analysis of the accuracy and comfort of off-the-shelf wearable sensors

Recent studies have shown the potential of wearable sensors for objective detection of health and safety risks in construction workers through their collected physiological data. Body temperature, as the focus of the current study, is one of the most important physiological parameters that can help to detect various health and safety risks such as heat stress, physical fatigue, and infectious diseases. This study aims to assess the applicability and performance of off-the-shelf wearable sensor devices to monitor workers’ body temperature in construction sites by evaluating the accuracy of temperature measurements as well as the comfort of the devices.A total of nine off-the-shelf wearable sensor devices available on the market were initially trialed in the laboratory, and three devices were shortlisted considering a set of selection criteria for further assessment. Over three weeks, the shortlisted wearable sensors were tested on 26 workers in two large construction sites in Australia. The reliability/validity of the selected wearable sensors in measuring body temperature was investigated using Bland-Altman analysis. Human factors were also investigated in terms of the comfort of the devices, their impact on workers’ performance, and the acceptability of being worn for an extended period (i.e., 8 h or more). It was found that all selected devices measured body temperature with a bias of less than one indicating a slight difference in measurements compared to the reference hospital-grade thermometers. Two devices out of the three were also comfortable. The achieved results indicate that it is feasible to develop a continuous temperature monitoring platform using off-the-shelf wearable sensors to detect a range of significant health and safety risks in construction sites objectively. Considering the rapid advancements in manufacturing wearable sensors, future research can adopt a similar approach to include the newly introduced off-the-shelf temperature sensors and select the most appropriate device.

Development of In-situ Gel of Bupropion Hydrochloride-loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles using an Inotropic Gelation Method for Smoking Cessation via Nose to Brain: In-vitro and Ex-vivo Characterization and Evaluation

Introduction: Tobacco use is the leading preventable cause of various diseases, disabili-ties, and death. It is estimated that 480000 deaths annually are attributed to cigarette smoking, in-cluding secondhand smoke exposure. The treatment of brain disorders is particularly challenging due to the presence of a variety of formidable obstacles to delivering drugs selectively and effec-tively to the brain. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) and first-pass metabolism constitute the major obstacle to the uptake of drugs into the brain following systemic administration. Intranasal delivery offers a non-invasive and convenient method to bypass the BBB and avoid first-pass metabolism, which leads to the delivery of therapeutics directly to the brain. Objective: The objective of this study was to develop an In-situ gel of Bupropion Hydrochloride-loaded chitosan nanoparticles using the inotropic gelation method for Smoking Cessation via the nose to the brain to improve the bioavailability of Bupropion Hydrochloride, avoiding first-pass me-tabolism and bypassing Blood Brain Barrier. Methods: Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to determine the identity and purity of the drug. A UV Spectrophotometer was employed in the analytical procedure. Chitosan nanoparticles loaded with bupropion HCl were made using the ionic gelation method, and then the optimized batch was made using simulated in-situ gelation. Utilizing Central composite design, op-timization was done by Design Expert-13. Evaluation of polymeric nanoparticles was performed by measuring their particle size, PDI, and entrapment efficiency. Additionally, they were tested for drug release in vitro. The final nanoparticles were subsequently tested for gelation using nasal simulation fluid, and an ex vivo investigation was also conducted. An ion-sensitive polymer gellan gum was used as a gelling agent, which formed an immediate gel and remained for an extended period. The finished formulation was also subjected to several characteri-zations, including TEM and FTIR. Results: The developed formulation was stable and showed enhanced contact time in the nasal mu-cosa, minimizing the frequency of administration. In-vitro studies through Franz diffusion cell and Ex-vivo studies on sheep nasal mucosa showed good results. In the Histopathological study, the op-timized batch was found to be safe and stable in an accelerated stability study for one month. Conclusion: Bupropion HCl-loaded chitosan nanoparticles In-situ gel proved to be suitable for the administration of Bupropion HCl through the nasal route. The ease of administration coupled with less frequent administration enhanced patient compliance. The formulation was found to be liquid at the formulated condition and formed gel in the presence of ions present in the nasal mucosa. The gel formed in situ showed sustained drug release. The formulations were less viscous before instilla-tion and formed a strong gel after instilling in the nasal cavity.

Optimizing austenite and carbide content in medium carbon silicon-rich steel: A stepped partitioning strategy and analysis of strengthening and ductility enhancement mechanisms

To achieve the objective of enhancing the yield strength (YS) of quenching and partitioning (Q&P) steel without compromising tensile strength and ductility, a stepped partitioning (SP) strategy was proposed for Q&P treatment on medium carbon silicon-rich steel. The optimized partitioning strategy involves a two-stage partitioning, the first stage is conducted at temperatures above the martensite start (Ms) temperature, followed by the second stage carried out at a lower temperature for an extended period, involving isothermal partitioning. Experimental results demonstrate that the SP strategy yields a significant quantity of small carbides, with an average size of 59.02 nm, along with 15.71 vol% of retained austenite (RA) and a carbon concentration of 1.01 wt% in RA. Furthermore, the SP-treated specimen exhibits a remarkable balance of strength and ductility, showcasing YS, ultimate tensile strength (UTS), and total elongation (TE) values reaching 1732 MPa, 2263 MPa, and 14.9%, respectively. The microstructure evolution during tensile deformation demonstrates that RA in short-duration conventional partitioning specimens underwent premature martensitic transformation during tensile deformation due to early deformation, whereas RA in long time conventional partitioning specimens was overstabilized due to highest C concentration, which resulted in poor enhancement of strengthening and ductility by TRIP effect. In contrast, the SP strategy achieved a reasonable stability of RA, resulting in a simultaneous increase of tensile strength and ductility. Simultaneously, an analysis of precipitation strengthening indicates that the abundance of fine carbides in martensite contributes to an increase in YS due to precipitation strengthening.