Increase In Diameter Research Articles

SCA Fracturing Mechanisms of Rock Mass and Application in Overhanging Roof Structure Fragmentation of Mine Goaf

During coal resource mining, hard roof mining is prone to causing rock-burst disasters because traditional blasting–cutting roof technology has the disadvantages of low efficiency and high cost. This article studies the theoretical basis and engineering application of fracturing technology with a static expansion agent (SCA). The influences of borehole diameter and spacing on the fracturing effect of a rock mass are studied through theoretical analysis and simulation. Rock mass models of a cantilever beam for a single rock layer and multiple layers were established, and the mechanical properties of the roof strata under three working conditions were analyzed. The research results show that the maximum annular stress value occurs along the drill hole wall between the adjacent drill holes, and the annular stress at the center line between two drill holes is the smallest. As the spacing between the holes increases, the annular stress at the center line decreases; however, the annular stress at the center of the drill line becomes larger with the increase in hole diameter. The degree of stress concentration increases sharply with the decrease in distance f from the borehole center to the free surface. Relative to the cantilever beam model of a single rock layer, the combined rock layers can effectively control the displacement and deformation of the cantilever roof. Based on the above research results, a drilling method with a 75 mm diameter and a 10° inclination angle is used, demonstrating that the suspended roof area can be reduced to below 20 m2 using the fracturing technology with a static expansion agent, allowing the roof strata to fall simultaneously during mining.

Fingerroot (Boesenbergia pandurate roxb.) Extract Gel Increasing Fgf-2 Expression and Accelerating The Healing Process in Oral Mucosal Ulcers of Wistar Rats

Introduction: The human oral cavity plays an important role in daily activities such as eating and speaking. The occurrence of oral problems such as oral ulcers known as canker sores will make it difficult to speak, chew food and discomfort when swallowing which will be felt in the inflammatory phase. The purpose of this study was to prove that the administration of fingerroot extract gel (Boesenbergia pandurata Roxb.) 10% can increase FGF-2 expression and can reduce the diameter of ulcers in the healing process of oral mucosal ulcers of Wistar rats. Material and Methods: Fingerroot extract gel 10% was obtained by macerating the base material, then evaporated with a rotary evaporator to obtain a thick temu kunci extract and then mixed with the gel base material (CMC-Na). A total of 30 Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus) were made ulcers on the labial mucosa and the control group was given 3% CMC-Na, the positive control group was given triamcinolone acetonide gel, and the treatment group was given 10% fingerroot extract gel. Ulcer diameter was measured on the 1st, 3rd, 5th and 8th day. On the 8th day, the animals were killed and the labial mucosa was taken, then the tissue was processed into preparations to calculate the amount of FGF-2 expression. Result and Discussion: After topical application of 10% fingerroot extract on traumatic ulcers on the oral mucosa of rats, there was an increase and shrinkage of ulcer diameter which showed significant differences with p <0.05. Conclusion: There was an increase in FGF-2 expression and reduced ulcer diameter in Wistar rats after application of 10% temu kunci extract gel.

Abstract 1861: A study of the effects of sodium alginate concentration on the physical properties of injectable alginate scaffolds for the treatment of glioblastoma

Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) is a Grade IV malignant brain cancer with a high recurrence and low survival rate. Despite advances in various therapeutic methods, prognosis has not improved much, thus, alternative treatment methods are needed. Minocycline (MINO), an antibiotic, has been shown to have anti-angiogenic properties useful for GBM treatment. Alginate is a biodegradable polysaccharide that can be used for the fabrication of injectable hydrogels for drug delivery. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of sodium alginate (SA) concentrations (i.e., 1.00, 1.50, and 2.00 wt./vol.%) on scaffold pH, gelation time, dimensions, weight, and cell viability. Scaffolds were fabricated by dissolving SA and calcium carbonate (CaCO3) in water, homogenizing with glucono-delta lactone (GDL), then injecting the solution into a 24-well plate to form uniform scaffolds. Scaffold properties were evaluated by determining pH values with a pH meter, gelation time using a tilt test with a digital timer, dimensions with a digital caliper and wet and dry weight (after lyophilization) using an analytical scale. To determine cell viability, U87 GBM cells were treated with 24 hr scaffold release solution, and an MTT assay was performed after 48 hrs. Scaffolds made with the different SA concentrations reached similar pH values after 60 min. (∼6.0). They had workable gelation time (∼15-36 min.) and were able to conform to the topography of the mold. The increase in SA concentration resulted in a decrease in gelation time and a significant increase in diameter, height, dry weight, and overall stability of the scaffold. The increase in SA polymer chains (with higher concentration of SA), allowed for more cross-linking which could have led to the sturdier scaffolds with a significant increase in scaffold height. As expected, as the concentration of SA increases, more components make up the scaffold structure, resulting in a significant increase in scaffold dry weight. The wet weights were not significantly different, probably due to the high-water content of the hydrogels masking the difference in the weight of the scaffold components. Increasing the concentration of SA had no significant effect on the cell viability of the blank scaffolds. The blank and minocycline-loaded scaffolds resulted in 65-70% and 40-45% cell viability, respectively. The drug-loaded scaffolds were able to enhance cell death compared to the control and blank scaffolds. In conclusion, the concentration of SA can be optimized to tune the physical properties of the scaffolds (which may lead to different scaffold degradation rates and drug release kinetics). The alginate scaffolds fabricated in this study may be a promising adjuvant therapy for GBM treatment and future studies will focus on evaluating the effects of the SA concentration on scaffold degradation rate and drug release kinetics. Citation Format: Serenade N. Trevino, Dorina A. Madrid, Samantha Davila, Marco A. Arriaga, Sue Anne Chew. A study of the effects of sodium alginate concentration on the physical properties of injectable alginate scaffolds for the treatment of glioblastoma [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2025; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2025 Apr 25-30; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2025;85(8_Suppl_1):Abstract nr 1861.

Response of Eggplant (<i>Solanum melongena</i>) to Diluted Seawater Irrigation

The rapid growth of the global population is driving an increasing demand for fresh water, particularly for domestic, industrial, and agricultural use. As freshwater resources become scarcer, exploring alternative water sources for agriculture is imperative to ensure food security. Therefore, this research was conducted to determine whether diluted seawater would impact the growth and productivity of eggplant. The effects of irrigation water with five different salt levels—0, 0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5%, and 2.0% %—were observed on eggplants (Calixto F1) that were grown in pots for three months. Response variables evaluated included plant height increment, leaf development, stem diameter increase, number of fruits harvested, and unit weight of fruits. The physicochemical properties of the irrigation water and growing media were also tested. The findings revealed that while the overall growth parameters were not significantly affected by the varying salt levels (p>0.05), a notable increase in fruit yield was observed at a 0.5% salinity level. This suggests that a minimal salt concentration in irrigation water can enhance eggplant productivity without compromising plant health. With these findings, this research presents an innovative approach to using diluted seawater as an irrigation strategy for eggplant cultivation. This approach offers a sustainable solution for agriculture in coastal and arid regions where freshwater is limited.

FIMOFs: Fiber-Integrated Metal-Organic Frameworks Through Electrospinning.

Green synthesis plays a crucial role in advancing sustainability within materials science. This study explores the integration of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), obtained through green synthesis, using an electrospinning post-processing technique to develop MOF-based composite materials. The resulting novel multifunctional composites demonstrate enhanced stability and functionality, compared to their control counterparts. The integration of four types of MOFs into an electrospun fiber network was investigated using a specific polymer solution. Characterization and preliminary adsorption studies were conducted to elucidate the chemistry, morphology, and adsorptive capabilities of the resulting MOF composites. Electrospinning MOFs into polymer fibers improved their stability and dye removal capabilities. More specifically, optimization of MOF-to-polymer ratios and processing conditions yielded composites that are thermally stable, with modified surface area and porosity. Post-processing MOFs resulted in a fiber diameter increase of 44 and 109%, enhancing the composites by providing more MOF active sites and improved mechanical strength. Zirconium-based post-processed MOFs demonstrated superior dye removal, different from the copper-based dyes. Electrospinning technology has demonstrated significant potential in the fabrication of high-performance multifunctional MOF composites. This has helped to create advanced sustainable composites with tailored properties, paving the way for more targeted and efficient applications. The applications of these composites show promise for military engineering where durable, light weight, and multifunctional materials are critical in contributing to improved performance, operational efficiency, and safety.

Assessing the Efficacy of Parental Testosterone Therapy in the Penis Size Before Hypospadias Surgery

ABSTRACTBackground:Parenteral testosterone has been used to increase glans diameter and penis size before hypospadias surgery. However, the existing literature data are scarce in the Indian context.Aim:The present study aimed to assess the efficacy of parenteral testosterone injection on diameter at the base of the penis, glans diameter, and penile length before surgery.Methods:The study assessed 40 hypospadia subjects who were given testosterone propionate injection a 2 mg/kg body weight dose given deep intramuscularly in three doses at 3-week gap before reconstructive surgery. Before surgery, diameter at the base of the penis, glans diameter, and penile length was assessed.Results:The study results showed a mean increase in diameter at the base of the penis, glans diameter, and penile length after parenteral testosterone therapy as 0.94 ± 0.14, 1.03 ± 0.48, and 1.09 ± 0.25, respectively. All three factors were statistically significant with P < 0.001.Conclusion:Intramuscular testosterone injection leads to an increase in diameter at the base of the penis, glans diameter, and penile length without any notable associated severe side effects. However, minor side effects are associated, including aggressiveness, acne, and fine pubic hair development.

MORPHOLOGICAL FEATURES OF THE SUBMUCOSAL GLANDS OF THE RAT DUODENUM UNDER THE EFFECT OF THE COMPLEX OF FOOD ADDITIVES

Aim. To establish the dynamics of changes in the morphometric parameters of the acini of the submucosal glands of the rat duodenum under normal conditions and under the complex effect of food additives. Materials and methods. The study involved 84 sexually mature male rats, of which 14 animals made up the control group. They consumed drinking water and were orally administered physiological saline, while 70 rats in the experimental group were administered 0.6 mg/kg sodium nitrite, 20 mg/kg monosodium glutamate and 5 mg/kg Ponceau 4R in 0.5 ml of distilled water orally once a day. The animals were withdrawn from the experiment after 1, 4, 8, 12 and 16 weeks. After euthanizing the animals, pieces of the duodenal wall were fixed in formalin and embedded in paraffin. The sections, stained with hematoxylin and eosin, were examined using a digital microscope. Statistical processing of morphometric data was performed using Excel software. Results. The consumption of the complex of food additives in the early stages of the experiment was manifested by a significant increase in the outer diameter of the ducts and the height of the epithelial cells by 33.33%, compared to the control group of animals (p&lt;0.05). This was a sign of compensatory enhancement of the secretory activity of Brunner’s gland cells in response to the presence of metabolites in the lumen of the duodenum. Subsequently, restructuring of the secretory apparatus was established in favor of carbohydrate production. The increased secretory activity led to the depletion of the glandular secretory apparatus by the end of the experiment, with the height of the epithelial cells being by 3.83% significantly lower than in the control group of animals, along with the development of desquamation phenomena and leukocyte infiltration. Conclusions. The consumption of monosodium glutamate, sodium nitrite and Ponceau 4R leads to changes in the morphometric parameters of the acini of the glands in response to the presence of metabolites in the lumen of the duodenum and a general reaction caused by the components of the complex. Due to the inability to recover through compensatory-repair mechanisms of the body, depletion of the glandular secretory apparatus, desquamation of the secretory epithelium, and leukocyte infiltration was established.

Features of the course of liver fatty degeneration in cholecystectomy and in non-operated patients of different age groupss

INTRODUCTION: The combination of cholelithiasis and liver fatty degeneration (LFD) is becoming increasingly common. The postcholecystectomy complications significantly reduce the quality of life of patients who have undergone surgery. Complications of LFD stimulate a search for new prognostic markers and algorithms for timely initiation of effective treatment. AIM: To identify prognostic criteria for complications of the course of LFD in the long-term period after cholecystectomy (CE) in patients of different age, and scientifically substantiate their significance for the earliest verification facilitating timely and effective treatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: To identify prognostic criteria for complication of the LFD course in the long-term period after laparoscopic CE, 301 patients (153 men and 149 women) were examined. Anthropometric data, hemodynamic parameters were assessed, autonomic regulation index was calculated. Ultrasound assessment of choledoch and liver elastography, magnetic resonance imaging of the liver and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography were performed. Laboratory parameters were analyzed. Using chromatography-mass-spectrometry, microbial markers of the parietal microbiome of the intestine were determined. RESULTS: Complication of the course of LFD was associated with predomination of sympathetic regulation of the autonomic status in individuals under 60. At an older age, these influences were less pronounced. One year after CE, patients displayed an increase in body weight, more pronounced in the group 60 years. This was associated with an increase in the choledoch diameter after CE, mostly in patients aged 45–59, being a sign of Oddi’s sphincter dyskinesia. A relationship was found between complication of the course of LFD and disorders of the structure of the intestinal microbial association caused by a decrease in the obligate microflora and increase in the opportunistic microflora, mostly due to the aerobic microflora; these changes were most evident in patients ≥ 60 years. CONCLUSIONS: The complication of the course of LFD in the late period after CE is significantly affected by age, autonomic regulation, body weight and the structure of the resident intestinal microbial association. In the older group, autonomic regulation has a smaller effect, and an increase in body weight and a change in the structure of the intestinal parietal microbiome are greater than in younger individuals.

Comparison of the antimicrobial effects of zinc titanium and aluminum doped copper oxide nanoparticles produced under the same conditions

Abstract The antibacterial nanoparticles have technological uses in many areas, from wall paint to clothing, from medicine to agriculture. Such copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles can be easily produced by the sol–gel method. In this study, primarily pure CuO and CuO nanoparticles doped with 4%, 8%, 12%, and 16% zinc, titanium, and aluminum were produced by the sol–gel method. Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and x‐ray diffraction (XRD) analyses of all produced nanoparticles were performed. The dimensions of pure CuO nanoparticles are approximately 50 nm, while the doped nanoparticles are approximately 80 nm. Bacterial cultivation was carried out using the nanoparticles that had been converted into tablets, with Escherichia coli and Agrobacterium tumefaciens as the test microorganisms. When disc diffusion test results were evaluated, it was generally observed that doping increased the antibacterial effect compared to pure CuO. The additives providing the antibacterial effect for E. coli caused the inhibition zones to grow at an average rate of Al (27%), Zn (15%), and TiO (6%), respectively. In A. tumefaciens bacteria, an increase was observed in the antibacterial effect inhibition zones with Al and Zn additives, while a decrease was observed with TiO additives. As a result, it was seen that CuO doping increased the antibacterial effect, and the best effect was Al doping. When all data were evaluated, the highest antibacterial effect was achieved with 8% Aluminum additive, resulting in a 34% increase in the inhibition diameter for E. coli and a 37% increase for A. tumefaciens.

Growth Factor‐Loaded Mesoporous Silica Particles, Incorporated in Electrospun PCL Fibres, Provide Topographical and Chemical Cues for Tendon Tissue Engineering

Abstract This study develops a biomaterial‐based strategy to address challenges in controlled growth factor delivery for tenogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) and tendon stem cells (TSCs). The 20% polycaprolactone (PCL) fibres, electrospun from acetic acid (AA) or formic acid:acetic acid (FA:AA) solutions, are loaded with bovine serum albumin (BSA) to evaluate initial protein‐solvent interactions. SEM characterization demonstrated that fibres from AA has larger diameters (391 ± 0.2 nm) than those from FA:AA (282 ± 0.5 nm), with a further increase in diameter upon BSA incorporation. ATR‐FTIR analysis confirmed successful protein loading but associated structural changes, particularly in AA fibres. Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) are then optimized to encapsulate the model biomolecules BSA, lysozyme, and GDF‐7, achieving high encapsulation efficiencies (80–100%) and sustained release due to electrostatic affinity. The MSNs, incorporated into aligned PCL fibres, better protect biomolecule stability and demonstrate uniform distribution, confirmed by SEM‐EDS. Functional cell‐based assays reveal good cell viability and metabolic activity for MSCs and TSCs cultured on the fibres, further enhanced under physoxic conditions (2% O₂). The scaffold, integrating aligned fibres and MSNs, provides a biomimetic 3D structure for controlled cell alignment and tissue formation. This system offers tuneable drug delivery and shows potential as an autograft alternative for tendon regeneration.

Parametric study of the noise of a propeller-driven fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicle with a piston engine

The results of full-scale acoustic tests of a Ptero-G0 unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) in an anechoic chamber are presented. The aim of the work is to determine the acoustic characteristics of a Ptero-G0 UAV and to assess the influence of various parameters on the noise level of the device. A unique aspect of the experiment is that a full-scale apparatus with a power plant including a single-cylinder 4-stroke piston engine and 2-bladed fixed-pitch propeller, was studied. Data on the spectral, energy and directivity characteristics of the UAV and its power plant were obtained. The tests assessed the effects of incoming flow velocity, power condition of the power plant, pitch angle of the UAV, propeller diameter, and vibrations of the bonnet on the UAV noise. In particular, increase in the power condition (engine speed) and incoming flow velocity led to an increase in spectral noise levels in the 1/3-octave frequencies bands ranging from 40 to 10,000 Hz. At the same time, background levels up to 40 Hz were determined by background noise. The influence of engine speed and incoming flow velocity on the directivity pattern has not been established. An increase in propeller diameter at a constant speed resulted in higher circumferential speed of the propeller and thrust, as well as increased load on the engine. As a result, intensity of the tonal components of propeller and engine noise increases. A slight decrease in diameter (by 6 %) led to a decrease in the overall noise level by 1.3 dB. Placing the engine in the bonnet without a vibration insulation system led to an increase in the overall sound pressure levels by up to 2.5 dB.

Effects of Emotional and Cognitive Changes on Aesthetic Evaluation of Poetry Based on Subjective and Physiological Continuous Responses with Pupil Diameter Measurements.

Haiku poetry, a short poem with a clear form, has the potential to elucidate many unknown aspects of linguistic art. Previous studies on haiku appreciation have shown that negative emotion and cognitive ambiguity reduce aesthetic evaluation. Considering the importance of negative emotions and ambiguity in art, it is beneficial to clarify the process of emotional and cognitive changes during aesthetic evaluation. This study examined the temporal effects of emotional and cognitive changes on aesthetic evaluation from multiple perspectives by measuring the ratings of each section of haiku, continuous emotional reports, and physiological changes in pupil diameter. The 112 students first rated the haiku at three time points on items such as beauty, valence, and ambiguity. Next, they rated the same haiku continuously for 20 seconds using a joystick for valence and arousal during which the pupil diameter was measured. The results showed that a decrease in negative emotions and ambiguity explained the beauty of the haiku. In the continuous emotion reports, positive emotions gradually increased for positive haiku and negative emotions gradually increased for negative haiku, while arousal decreased once and then gradually increased for both forms of haiku. Additionally, an increase in pupil diameter also explained the beauty. The roles of negative emotions and ambiguity were revealed by focusing on both subjective and physiological indicators of emotional and cognitive changes during haiku appreciation. This study has contributed to the advancement of our understanding of linguistic art forms by empirically exploring conscious and unconscious emotional and cognitive responses to haiku.

Comparison of epicardial fat thickness in macrosomic and non-macrosomic infants of mothers with diabetes.

Epicardial fat thickness also increases in insulin resistance and diabetes mellitus patients. In our study, we aimed to compare the epicardial fat thickness and interventricular septum diameter in infants of mothers with diabetes with infants of mothers without diabetes. Also, to determine the effect of birth weight on the epicardial fat thickness and the interventricular septum diameter in infants of mothers with diabetes. Between November 2022 and June 2023, infants of mothers with diabetes and healthy infants were compared. According to birth weight, infants of mothers with diabetes were divided into two groups, macrosomic infants (≥ 4000 g) and non-macrosomic infants (2500-4000 g). A total of 78 infants of mothers with diabetes and 56 infants of mothers without diabetes were evaluated. Epicardial fat thickness and interventricular septum diameter were found to be statistically significantly higher in infants of mothers with diabetes than in healthy infants. Epicardial fat thickness and interventricular septum diameter measurements were found to be statistically significantly higher in the macrosomic of infants than in the non-macrosomic of infants of mothers with diabetes. Asymmetric septal hypertrophy was found to be more common in macrosomic infants of diabetic mothers than in non-macrosomic infants, although not statistically significant. We also found a positive correlation between epicardial fat thickness and asymmetric septal hypertrophy. Epicardial fat thickness is observed to increase along with neonatal macrosomia and heart mass in gestational diabetes mellitus. The lack of a significant increase in epicardial fat thickness and interventricular septum diameter in non-macrosomic infants of mothers with diabetes may be indicative of good glycaemic control in non-macrosomic infants of mothers with diabetes. Therefore, good glycaemic control during pregnancy and long-term follow-up of infants of mothers with diabetes after birth is important.

Application of Ameliorants and Mycorrhiza on Sandy Soil for the Cultivation of Glutinous Corn (Zea mays ceratina)

Aims: This research seeks to assess the impact of different combinations of ameliorants and mycorrhiza on the growth and productivity of glutinous corn cultivated in sandy soil. Study Design: This study used a Randomized Block Design (RBD). Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was conducted in Moncok Village, Ampenan District, Mataram City, Indonesia. Methodology: The study evaluated five different ameliorant mixture treatments: (A1) a combination of 50% cow manure and 50% mycorrhizal biofertilizer, (A2) 50% compost mixed with 50% mycorrhizal biofertilizer, (A3) 50% "Subur" organic fertilizer paired with 50% mycorrhizal biofertilizer, (A4) 50% rice husk charcoal combined with 50% mycorrhizal biofertilizer, and (A5) a blend of various ameliorants, each contributing 50%, with 50% mycorrhizal biofertilizer. The parameters measured included plant height, leaf count, fresh and dry biomass weight, cob weight, soil nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) content, plant uptake of N and P, spore count, mycorrhizal colonization, and overall harvest yield. Results: The combination of 50% cow manure and 50% mycorrhizal biofertilizer resulted in the optimal growth and yield of glutinous corn, showing a significant difference (P&lt;0.05) compared to the other treatments. This mixture led to increases in plant height, leaf count, biomass weight, cob weight, cob diameter and length, as well as improved nutrient concentration and uptake by the plants. Moreover, it promoted a higher number of spores and greater mycorrhizal root colonization. Conclusion: The application of a 50% cow manure and 50% mycorrhizal biofertilizer mixture significantly (P&lt;0.05) improved soil fertility, mycorrhizal activity, and growth and yield of glutinous corn cultivated on sandy soil.

Potential Utilization of Grounded Bottom Ash for Sustainable Stowing Applications

The present investigation focused on examining the physical, rheological, and mineral aspects of ground bottom ash to enhance comprehension of its utility in the stowing application. Analysis revealed a notable presence of silica in the ash sample, with F-type ash containing alumina and iron oxides while predominant crystalline phases were noticed as quartz and mullite. These characterizations suggest its potential application as stowing material in coal mines, contributing to industry sustainability and mitigating environmental hazards. Experimental results on rheological properties and the impact of concentration on varying pipe diameters indicated a correlation: an increase in pipe diameter led to a slower but evident rise in critical velocity. This data proves invaluable in designing pipeline configurations for stowing bottom ash slurries of differing concentrations and pipe sizes.

Randomized controlled trial on the efficacy and safety of the combination therapy of topical 0.1% finasteride - 5% Minoxidil in male androgenetic alopecia.

Current FDA-approved treatments for androgenetic alopecia (AGA) are oral finasteride and topical minoxidil. Topical finasteride offers a potential alternative with similar efficacy and fewer systemic side effects. This study evaluated the effectiveness and safety of combining topical finasteride and minoxidil for male AGA. This 12-week randomized controlled trial divided subjects into two groups which are topical finasteride 0.1%-minoxidil 5% (treatment) and topical minoxidil 5% (control) (NCT05990400, registered 2023-08-04). Hair density, hair diameter, terminal hair rate, and vellus hair rate (assessed using phototrichogram), and the occurrence of side effects (SE) was monitored at four-week intervals. Out of 40 subjects, 2 dropped out in the treatment group. Significant increases in hair density, diameter, and terminal hair rate; and decrease of vellus hair rate were observed at each visit compared to baseline, yet no differences between groups. Systemic SEs included libido reduction (control), mild erectile dysfunction, and chest pain (treatment). Common local SEs (itching, shedding, and dandruff) were similar between groups. One patient (treatment) experienced contact dermatitis. Combining topical finasteride 0.1% with topical minoxidil 5% has similar safety and effectiveness for increasing hair density and diameter in male AGA patients compared to topical minoxidil 5% after 12 weeks of observation.

Surface modification of closed cell titanium foam through electrical discharge texturing

Abstract In this paper, the Die-Sinker Electrical Discharge Texturing (DSEDT) is utilized to machine closed cell titanium foam using pure brass tool electrode. Discharge time, current and discharge voltage were taken as input factors. By varying these input factors, discharge energy generated in between the tool and workpiece gets altered. Therefore, the influence of discharge energy on the average crater diameter, re-solidified layer thickness and chemical alteration of machined surface are analysed. The stochastic nature of DSEDT process is studied using microscopic images and energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy profiles. Through micrographs it is perceived, increase in the discharge energy from 5.12 J to 10.13 J, leads to an increase in average crater diameter from 29.26 to 66.29 μm respectively. It is observed that combined effect of crater overlap phenomena and re-solidification of material seals the cells in a foam material. A minimum re-solidified layer thickness of 44.29 μm is achieved. The machined surface of closed cell titanium foam shows significant rise in carbon, copper and zinc elements owing to the disintegration of the dielectric liquid and tool electrode during spark erosion. The study on DSEDT of closed cell titanium foam revealed the possibility to create surfaces with uniform crater diameter and establish titanium carbide on the machined surface.

Study on the Mechanism of the Micro-Charge-Detonation-Driven Flyer.

To investigate the energy transfer mechanisms during the micro-explosive initiator-driven flyer process and to guide the performance evaluation of micro-sized charges and the structural design of micro-initiators, a combined approach of numerical simulations and experimental tests was employed to study the detonation process of copper-based azide micro-charges driving a flyer. The output pressure and detonation velocity of the copper-based azide micro-charge were measured using the manganese-copper piezoresistive method and electrical probe technique, and the corresponding JWL equation of the state parameters was subsequently fitted. A simulation model for the micro-charge-driven flyer was established and validated using Photonic Doppler Velocimetry (PDV), and the influence of charge conditions, structural parameters, and other factors on the flyer velocity and morphology was investigated. The results indicate that the flyer velocity decreases as its thickness increases, whereas the specific kinetic energy of the flyer initially increases and then decreases with increasing thickness. The optimal flyer thickness was found to be in the range of 30 to 70 μm. The flyer velocity increases with the density and height of the micro-charge; however, when the micro-charge density exceeds a certain threshold, the flyer velocity decreases. The flyer velocity exhibits an exponential decline as the diameter of the acceleration chamber increases, whereas it shows a slight increase with the increase in the length of the acceleration chamber. The diameter of the acceleration chamber should not exceed the charge diameter and must be no smaller than the critical diameter required for detonation initiation of the underlying charge. The use of a multi-layer accelerating chamber structure leads to a slight reduction in flyer velocity and further increases in the transmission hole diameter while having no significant impact on the flyer velocity.

Evaluation of drought-tolerant chickpea genotypes (Cicer arietinum L.) using morphophysiological and phytochemical traits.

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.), through a series of morphological, physiological, biochemical, and molecular changes, would tolerate abiotic stresses such as water deficiency. Accordingly, two separate experiments were conducted to investigate phytochemical and morphophysiological traits of various candidate chickpea genotypes in response to drought stress. In the first experiment, morphological and phytochemical traits were evaluated by maintaining pots at 70% water holding capacity (WHC) and applying gradual drought stress (to 50% and 25% WHC) to four- to six-week-old seedlings. In the second experiment, the stressed plants were exposed to progressive drought stress for biochemical measurements, while control plants were irrigated at 70% WHC. The highest photosynthetic water use efficiency (9.94 µmolCo2/µmolH2o) under drought stress belonged to the MCC552 genotype, followed by the MCC696 genotype with 7.25. The highest chlorophyll content (SCMR) was recorded in MCC537 (0.99 µg/cm²), followed by MCC352 (0.89 µg/cm²). The deepest root depth (70.83 cm) was observed in MCC537, followed by MCC552 (69.36 cm). Root diameter increase under stress conditions compared to normal conditions only in MCC352 and MCC552. However, leaf area was higher in MCC552 and MCC537 under drought stress conditions. The SCMR(μg/cm²) was highest in the MCC552 (1.48), followed by MCC696(1.32) and MCC80 (1.31). The highest proline level was observed in the MCC552, which increased with drought stress severity. The lowest level of Malondialdehyde was observed in the MCC696 genotypes, while the highest catalase level was found in the MCC696, followed by the MCC537 and MCC552. Based on root depth, root length, diameter, leaf area, as well as phytochemicals traits, especially proline, MCC552 and MCC696 were identified as the most tolerant genotypes to drought stress.

Revealing the Interaction Between the Structural Characteristics of Anodized Nanopores and Their Surface Wettability and Lubricity

Lithography-based techniques for cross-scale nanopore array fabrication are expensive, and the design of nanoporous structures relative to wettability or lubricity is intricate. This study presents a low-cost strategy integrating the anodization and pore-widening processes to successfully fabricate anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) nanoporous structures with pore diameters ranging from 40 to 330 nm and interpore distances ranging from 60 to 335 nm. This study reveals the synergistic regulation mechanism of pore characteristics on surface wettability and lubricity. Results showed that both pore diameter and interpore distance increase with applied voltage, and a minimum pore diameter of 40 nm achieves a low voltage (i.e., 40 V) and short anodization time. The pore-widening process significantly enhances pore uniformity. The AAO surface exhibits excellent lubricating properties with a minimum coefficient of friction of 0.05 after pore widening. In addition, the wettability of AAO can be precisely controlled by adjusting pore diameter and porosity. A small pore diameter of 40 nm exhibits hydrophobicity (contact angle of approximately 100°). The pore-widening process helps enhance the hydrophobicity of the AAO surface, where an appropriate pore diameter of 100 nm exhibits near superhydrophobicity (contact angle of approximately 141°). However, a large pore diameter of 330 nm exhibits superhydrophilicity (contact angle of approximately 4°). This study provides valuable insights into understanding the interaction between the structural characteristics and the surface properties of AAO, contributing to the development of high-performance nanopore array templates.