Ideal Level Research Articles

Characterization of eco-engineered hybrid polymer composites: reinforcing epoxy with basalt fibers and recycled biochar from rice husk for enhanced mechanical and environmental performance

ABSTRACT The hand layup approach was used to fabricate epoxy-based hybrid polymer composites reinforced with biochar made from recycled rice husk and basalt fibers. The biochar, derived from recycled rice husk, served as a filler material to enhance the composite properties. E1 (0% biochar), E2 (2% biochar), E3 (5% biochar), and E4 (7% biochar), where the four samples with varied biochar percentage were made.The tensile strength increased from 45.2 MPa (E1) to 58.7 MPa (E3) in mechanical tests, demonstrating improved performance with a higher biochar content. Flexural strength peaked in E3 at 85.3 MPa, however filler agglomeration caused a minor drop in E4. Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy was utilized to examine the surface morphology and dispersion of biochar within the composite matrix to assist in determining the elemental composition of the composites and their morphological properties.The compatibility of biochar with the polymer matrix was demonstrated by FTIR spectroscopy, which validated chemical interactions.These results highlight biochar’s potential as a sustainable filler material to improve environmental and mechanical performance. Strength and durability were balanced at the ideal biochar level of 5%, providing a route for the creation of high-performance, environmentally friendly composites appropriate for cutting-edge technical applications.

New Perspectives of Hydrogels in Chronic Wound Management

Chronic wounds pose a substantial healthcare concern due to their prevalence and cost burden. This paper presents a detailed overview of chronic wounds and emphasizes the critical need for novel therapeutic solutions. The pathophysiology of wound healing is discussed, including the healing stages and the factors contributing to chronicity. The focus is on diverse types of chronic wounds, such as diabetic foot necrosis, pressure ulcers, and venous leg ulcers, highlighting their etiology, consequences, and the therapeutic issues they provide. Further, modern wound care solutions, particularly hydrogels, are highlighted for tackling the challenges of chronic wound management. Hydrogels are characterized as multipurpose materials that possess vital characteristics like the capacity to retain moisture, biocompatibility, and the incorporation of active drugs. Hydrogels’ effectiveness in therapeutic applications is demonstrated by how they support healing, including preserving ideal moisture levels, promoting cellular migration, and possessing antibacterial properties. Thus, this paper presents hydrogel technology’s latest developments, emphasizing drug-loaded and stimuli-responsive types and underscoring how these advanced formulations greatly improve therapy outcomes by enabling dynamic and focused reactions to the wound environment. Future directions for hydrogel research promote the development of customized hydrogel treatments and the incorporation of digital health tools to improve the treatment of chronic wounds.

Liver and pancreatic fat fractions as predictors of disease severity in acute pancreatitis: an MRI IDEAL-IQ study.

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and non-alcoholic fatty pancreatic disease (NAFPD) are metabolic diseases with rising incidence. Fatty infiltration may lead to dysfunction of the liver and pancreatic tissues. This study aims to quantify liver and pancreatic fat fractions and examine their correlation with disease severity in acute pancreatitis patients. The severity of acute pancreatitis was assessed using the revised Atlanta classification (RAC), computed tomography severity index (CTSI), and modified CTSI (mCTSI). Proton density fat fraction (PDFF) levels of the liver and pancreas were measured via IDEAL MRI. Patients were categorized into biliary and non-biliary pancreatitis groups. Correlations between PDFF levels and the RAC, CTSI, and mCTSI scores were analyzed. A total of 127 patients were included, with MASLD present in 40.9% and NAFPD in 30%. Liver PDFF values were significantly higher in non-biliary pancreatitis (p = 0.040). Patients with MASLD exhibited higher CTSI and mCTSI scores (p = 0.009, p = 0.033, respectively). No significant differences were observed in severity scales between patients with and without NAFPD. Liver PDFF was positively correlated with CTSI and mCTSI scores in biliary pancreatitis. ROC analysis identified a liver PDFF > 3.9% (p = 0.002) and pancreatic corpus PDFF > 12.1% (0.028) as diagnostic markers for severe pancreatitis. In addition, a liver PDFF < 4.5% (p = 0.042) was an indicator for biliary pancreatitis. MASLD is associated with increased severity in acute pancreatitis. IDEAL MRI-derived PDFF levels of the liver and pancreas show potential in predicting severe acute pancreatitis and distinguishing between biliary and non-biliary etiologies.

Application Of The Profile Matching Method For A Decision Support System In Selecting The Quality Of Fresh Fruit Marks (FFB) Of Oil Palm Worth Harvesting

Oil palm has an important role for the country's economy and is one of the commodity crops for Indonesian plantations. The oil content in palm oil has benefits for everyday life such as cooking oil, processed food, cosmetics and so on. Selection of quality fresh fruit bunches (FFB) for oil palm suitable for harvest requires a method to determine which fresh fruit bunches (FFB) are very suitable. One way to do this is by using the profile matching method. The profile matching method is a method of making decisions by assuming that there is an ideal variable level. The results of the study concluded, among others: the decision support system used to assist in selecting the quality of fresh fruit bunches (FFB) of oil palm worth harvesting. The application of the profile matching method can make decisions in selecting the quality of fresh fruit bunches worth harvesting based on ranking for the 30 samples used. TBS20 with a value of 4.9 is ranked first and TBS16 with a value of 3 is ranked last.

The use of Mahad leaf pellet feed affects the fermentation process and rumen micro-biota in beef cattle

Abstract The study’s objective was to assess how Mahad leaf pellet feed affected the microbial ecology and rumen fermentation in beef cattle. Using a 4×4 Latin square design, 4 Brahman crossbred heifers weighing 250 ± 40 kg (1–1.5 years old) were randomly allocated to each of the following treatments: The powder for concentration in the experiment following: (1) Control (0 g concentrate powder), (2) 50 g concentrate powder, (3) 100 g concentrate powder, and (4) 150 g concentrate powder. The cows received ad libitum rice straw and concentrate at 1% BW. None of the treatments affected ruminal temperature, NH 3 -N, microbial protein production, or pH. Hematocrit (Hct) and blood urea N were unaffected by the addition of Mahad leaf pellet feed. On the other hand, the addition of Mahad leaf pellet feed to the diet led to a linear reduction in the ruminal concentration of acetic acid (P = 0.01) and an increase in the ruminal concentration of propionic acid (P = 0.02). We projected a decrease in ruminal CH 4 production (P = 0.02) as the amount of Mahad leaf pellet feed in the diet increased. The addition of Mahad leaf pellet feed to the diet resulted in a linear decrease in the protozoal population (P = 0.01) as the amount increased. According to the current study, Mahad leaf pellet feed alters ruminal fermentation by reducing the acetate-to-propionate ratio and estimating the amount of CH 3 produced. It has no influence on ruminal pH, microbial synthesis or blood parameters. Decreases in the ruminal protozoa may account for some of the changes in ruminal fermentation parameters. The ideal level for animal feed supplementation is 150 g of the total ration, as supplementing beyond 150 g of the concentrate portion did not significantly enhance these beneficial effects.

Hotel digital intelligence capability: dimension exploration and scale development

Purpose This study aims to explore the dimensional structure of hotel digital intelligence capability and develop a measurement scale. Design/methodology/approach This study adopts qualitative and quantitative approaches to conduct an exploratory inquiry into the structural dimensions of hotel digital intelligence capability with the help of grounded theory. Based on this, several questionnaires were developed to test the measurement scale and verify its validity. Findings The results reveal that hotel digital intelligence capability comprises four dimensions: data collection and processing capability, customer service personalization capability, digital intelligence decision support capability and sustainable development capability. The measurement scale consists of four factors and 13 items, with reliability and validity tests demonstrating ideal levels. Originality/value This study not only provides a new perspective to understand hotel digital intelligence capability but also develops a corresponding measurement scale, laying a solid theoretical basis for hotel managers to scientifically evaluate this capability to achieve sustainable competitive advantage.

Multioptimization analysis of machining characteristics on spark electrical discharge machining of Al/SiC and Al/SiC/B4C composites

Abstract This study examines the machining characteristics of sintered aluminium composites, including Al+6% SiC and Al+4% SiC+2% B4C, utilising electrical discharge machining (EDM) by changing the input machining factors like current (C) in amperes, Pulse-OFF and Pulse-ON time in µs, at three distinct levels. The L9 Orthogonal array was employed to examine the influence of process factors on output variables, including Surface Roughness (SR), Material Removal Rate (MRR), and Hole Circularity (HC). An Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was conducted to determine the percentage contribution of the input factors to the output variables. Observation implies that the GRG ANOVA for Al+6%SiC composite has achieved the most significant contribution to the total GRG, with the current contributing 86.66%, followed by the Pulse-ON at 8.52% and the Pulse-OFF at 3.63%. In contrast, the Al+4%SiC+2%B4C composite shows the current contributing 74.07%, followed by the Pulse-ON at 15.25% and the Pulse-OFF at 9.82%. The ideal input levels for Al+6%SiC and Al+4%SiC+2%B4C composites were found to be A3B3C1 and A3B3C3, correspondingly.

Correlation between MRI findings of pituitary gland and prolactin level among hyperprolactinemia adult female Saudi patients in rural areas: A retrospective multicentric study.

Identifying the prolactin threshold that necessitates pituitary magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in patients with hyperprolactinemia remains challenging. Therefore, developing standards for serum prolactin level criteria to predict prolactinoma is critical. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between hyperprolactinemia and the presence of pituitary adenoma among Saudi female patients with verified prolactin levels. A retrospective multicentric study, including 4 regions from western Saudia Arabia between July 2020 and September 2023, included 168 female patients with abnormal prolactin levels who underwent brain MRI for the pituitary gland evaluation. The prevalence of pituitary adenoma and its associated factors and the relationship between blood prolactin levels and pituitary adenoma on brain MRI, as well as establishing the cutoff value of serum prolactin concentration linked to the existence of pituitary adenoma, were investigated and analyzed. The mean prolactin level was 72.7 ± 63.2 ng/mL. MRI findings were microadenoma in 77 (46.1%), macroadenoma in 17 (10.2%), Empty sella syndrome (ESS) in 7 (4.2%), and normal in 66 (39.5%) patients. In the ROC curve analysis, prolactin levels demonstrated a moderate degree of accuracy in predicting the existence of a pituitary adenoma (AUC = 0.640; 95% CI = 0.563-0.713; P = .0010], and the sensitivity and specificity were 40.59% and 83.33%, respectively. The ideal cutoff prolactin level for diagnosing pituitary adenoma was > 38.71 ng/mL with a sensitivity of 77.23% and specificity of 40.91%. It is prudent to perform pituitary imaging in most cases of hyperprolactinemia without event etiology, even if the condition is minor, due to the high prevalence of pituitary anomalies in female patients with hyperprolactinemia at serial sampling. A multidisciplinary strategy is necessary for a comprehensive diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up approach to improve the clinical outcomes of these individuals.

Plasma Epstein-Barr Virus DNA load for diagnostic and prognostic assessment in intestinal Epstein-Barr Virus infection.

The prospective application of plasma Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) DNA load as a noninvasive measure of intestinal EBV infection remains unexplored. This study aims to identify ideal threshold levels for plasma EBV DNA loads in the diagnosis and outcome prediction of intestinal EBV infection, particularly in cases of primary intestinal lymphoproliferative diseases and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were examined to determine suitable thresholds for plasma EBV DNA load in diagnosing intestinal EBV infection and predicting its prognosis. 108 patients were retrospectively assigned to the test group, while 56 patients were included in the validation group. Plasma EBV DNA loads were significantly higher in the intestinal EBV infection group compared to the non-intestinal EBV infection group (Median: 2.02 × 102 copies/mL, interquartile range [IQR]: 5.49 × 101-6.34×103 copies/mL versus 4.2×101 copies/mL, IQR: 1.07 ×101-6.08×101 copies/mL; P < 0.0001). Plasma EBV DNA levels at 9.21×101 and 6.77×101 copies/mL proved beneficial for the identification and prognostication in intestinal EBV infection, respectively. Values of 0.82 and 0.71 were yielded by the area under the ROC curve (AUC) in the test cohort, corresponding to sensitivities of 84.38% (95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 68.25%-93.14%) and 87.5% (95%CI: 69%-95.66%), specificities of 83.33% (95%CI: 64.15%-93.32%) and 68.09% (95%CI: 53.83%-79.6%), positive predictive values (PPV) of 87.1% (95%CI: 71.15%-94.87%) and 58.33% (95%CI: 42.2%-72.86%), and positive likelihood ratios (LR+) of 5.06 and 2.74 in the validation cohort, respectively. Furthermore, a plasma EBV DNA load of 5.4×102 copies/mL helped differentiate IBD with intestinal EBV infection from primary intestinal EBV-positive lymphoproliferative disorders (PIEBV+LPDs), achieving an AUC of 0.85 within the test cohort, as well as 85% sensitivity (95%CI: 63.96%-94.76%), 91.67% specificity (95%CI: 64.61%-99.57%), 94.44% PPV (95%CI: 74.24%-99.72%), and an LR+ of 10.2 in the validation cohort. Plasma EBV DNA load demonstrates notable potential in distinguishing between different patient cohorts with intestinal EBV infection, although its sensitivity requires further optimization for clinical application.

Cyclodipeptides (CDPs), the enzymatic synthesis, and the potential functional properties to exhibit broad varieties of pharmacological properties—A comprehensive review

Cyclodipeptides (CDPs) are distinct chemical scaffolds that show a wide range of bioactivities pertinent to medicine, agriculture, chemical catalysis, and material sciences. CDPs, also known as diketopiperazines (DKPs), are tiny naturally occurring peptides that have sparked interest due to their various bioactive features and possible applications in the food, pharmaceutical, and medical sectors. CDPs are produced by the intramolecular cyclization of two amino acids and can be found in a variety of environments, such as fungi, plants, animals, bacteria, and processed foods. CDPs are highly stable because of their solid structure and durability against enzymatic degradation, making them appropriate choices for medicinal and functional food applications. CDPs are frequently seen as undesirable byproducts in processed meals, especially those that include dairy, meat, and fermented drinks; new research indicates that they may improve flavor and benefit human health. Bioactive sub-stances having anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, and neuroprotective qualities have been recognized as CDPs. Certain CDPs, such as cyclo(Phe-Pro), along with cyclo(Pro-Pro), have shown promise in controlling metabolic and cognitive functions in the body, while others, such as cyclo(His-Pro), have demonstrated anticancer activity by causing cancer cells to undergo apoptosis. In spite of widespread research, little is known about the precise health consequences and ideal levels of CDP intake from dietary sources. Considering this, the present review attempts to compile the most recent information on the occurrence, generation, and biological activity of CDPs. To completely comprehend CDPs’ bioactivity and their significance to human health, more research is required. Additionally, creative approaches for using these peptides for creating functional foods and preventing diseases should be investigated.

P3 site-directed mutagenesis: An efficient method based on primer pairs with 3'-overhangs.

Site-directed mutagenesis is a fundamental tool indispensable for protein and plasmid engineering. An important technological question is how to achieve the efficiency at the ideal level of 100%. Based on complementary primer pairs, the QuickChange method has been widely used, but it requires significant improvements due to its low efficiency and frequent unwanted mutations. An alternative and innovative strategy is to utilize primer pairs with 3'-overhangs, but this approach has not been fully developed. As the first step towards reaching the efficiency of 100%, we have optimized this approach systematically (such as use of newly designed short primers, test of different Pfu DNA polymerases and modification of PCR parameters) and evaluated the resulting method extensively with >100 mutations on 12 mammalian expression vectors, ranging from 7.0-13.4 kb in size and encoding ten epigenetic regulators with links to cancer and neurodevelopmental disorders. We have also tested the new method with two expression vectors for the SARS-COV-2 spike protein. Compared to the QuickChange method, the success rate has increased substantially, with an average efficiency of ∼50%, with some at or close to 100%, and requiring much less time for engineering various mutations. Therefore, we have developed a new site-directed mutagenesis method for efficient and economical generation of various mutations. Notably, the method failed with a human KAT2B expression plasmid that possesses extremely GC-rich sequences. Thus, this study also sheds light on how to improve the method for developing ideal mutagenesis methods with the efficiency at ∼100% for a wide spectrum of plasmids.

Low Micronutrient Adequacy And Rising Overweight And Obesity Among Ready-made Garment Workers In Bangladesh

Background/Objective: The ready-made garment (RMG) sector is key to Bangladesh's economy, significantly contributing to GDP and foreign exchange earnings. However, RMG workers, predominantly women, face critical challenges related to health, nutrition, and productivity. Despite their socio-economic importance, research on their diet quality, nutrient adequacy, and nutritional status remains limited. This study aimed to assess the dietary quality, probability of nutrient adequacy, and nutritional status of RMG workers in Bangladesh. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 801 RMG workers (333 males and 468 females) employed in two garment industries in Dhaka and Mymensingh. Participants were selected using convenience sampling. Data on socio-demographics, dietary intake, and anthropometry were collected, and nutritional status was assessed using BMI classifications from both WHO and Asian standards. Micronutrient adequacy was evaluated using the probability approach (PA), incorporating estimated average requirement (EAR) values and standard deviations. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were employed. Multiple logistic regression was used to investigate the influence of socioeconomic factors on workers' micronutrient adequacy. Results: Among the 801 RMG workers studied, 58.4% were female, and 90.3% were aged 18-34. Macronutrient distribution indicated excessive carbohydrate intake (67.0% of total energy), while fat intake was often below ideal levels in 43.4% of participants (&lt;15% of total energy). More than half of the RMG workers exhibited inadequate micronutrient intake, with a mean micronutrient adequacy (MPA) score below 0.5. The MPA of micronutrients was significantly higher for RMG workers in Mymensingh (AOR 1.68, p = 0.004) and those aged 25-34 (AOR 1.40, p = 0.049). Calcium consumption among RMG workers was alarmingly low, with most consuming less than 50% of the Estimated Average Requirement (EAR). Similarly, intakes of iron, zinc, riboflavin, and vitamin A were at or below the EAR, indicating a high risk of inadequacies. A concerning overnutrition was observed, with 44% overweight or obese based on Asian BMI standards while it was 24.1% based on WHO BMI standards, with a higher prevalence observed among female workers. Conclusion: The study findings highlight the coexistence of overnutrition and micronutrient inadequacy among RMG workers. Targeted nutritional interventions, such as establishing fair-price shops and promoting nutrition education, are recommended to improve food affordability, encourage healthier dietary practices, and enhance workforce productivity. Bioresearch Commu. 11(1): 1728-1740, 2025 (January)

Harmonizing technology and tradition: Analysis of grade VI mathematics midterm exam questions

In education, evaluation instruments such as tests are important tools to measure students' abilities objectively. However, unbalanced question quality, such as too easy difficulty levels or ineffective distractors, can reduce the validity and reliability of the test in distinguishing participants' abilities. This study analyzed the quality of the midterm test Mathematics questions for Grade VI at Sekolah Prestasi Global. Analysis using CTT with the help of SPSS and JMetrik allows for a more detailed evaluation of the quality of the questions. The source of research data was the results of 111 students' answers to 25 Midterm Exam Questions, with 15 multiple-choice questions analyzed further, consisting of 10 multiple-choice questions and five true-false questions. The results showed that most of the UTS Mathematics questions for Grade VI were relatively easy (80% with a difficulty level &gt;0.70), so they were less effective in distinguishing participants' abilities. Only three questions were in the ideal difficulty level category (0.31–0.70), while most distractors were ineffective with low or zero discrimination values. Although the overall reliability of the question was good (Cronbach's Alpha 0.763), improvements in test quality are recommended through question revisions, distractor improvements, and a more balanced distribution of difficulty levels. This study concludes that the quality of the Grade VI Mathematics UTS question at Sekolah Prestasi Global needs to be improved through revision of easy questions, improvement of distractors, and a more balanced distribution of difficulty levels to produce a test instrument that is more valid, reliable, and able to evaluate participants' abilities accurately.

A NEW SPECIFIC CARBON FOOTPRINT (SCF) THEORY OF FLOW RATE AND ENERGY CONSUMPTION VARIATIONS OF AN INDUSTRIAL INTERNAL GEAR PUMP

Pumps in fuel oil systems are mechanical equipment used for the transfer of liquid fluid from one place to another. In particular, pumps are required to transfer the maximum flow rate in the transfer units in minimum time. They consume a very high amount of energy for this transfer. In this research, research studies were carried out to ensure the transfer of the highest possible amount of fuel oil by consuming energy at optimal rates. In this experimental study, the energy consumption and flow rate were measured across a range of engine speeds (100-700 RPM) and varying gear lengths (90-100 mm). According to the findings, energy consumption reached ideal levels at 600 RPM engine speed. In addition, it was determined that the lowest CO2 emission was obtained in the range of 600-700 RPM and by using long gear length. In addition, it is observed that the effect of gear length on energy efficiency is significant and energy consumption decreases as the gear length gets shorter. The results show that minimum energy consumption can be obtained with maximum flow rate at 609 RPM engine speed and 100 mm gear length. The ANOVA analysis used in the study reveals that the flow rate changes are 98% related to the engine speed, while the gear length is 78% effective in CO2 emission reduction. This research provides an important contribution to energy efficiency and carbon emission reduction in industrial applications. This study provides an innovative method that can be used to achieve energy saving and environmental sustainability goals and makes valuable contributions to the literature on optimizing internal gear pump designs.

Utilization of Household Organic Waste into Biogas and Integrated with IoT

The increase in population impacts several environmental sectors, particularly the use of natural gas energy for household needs, such as LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas). This has resulted in the depletion of natural gas reserves and a rise in LPG imports. Additionally, the growing population contributes to the accumulation of household waste, which can lead to excessive leachate production and greenhouse gas emissions. This issue is particularly concerning in developing countries like Indonesia due to its negative environmental impact. This research aims to provide a solution and contribute to reducing household waste accumulation by utilizing organic waste to create renewable energy in the form of biogas as an alternative to LPG. Biogas is produced through the fermentation of organic waste. Nutrient-rich fluids containing sugar can enhance the performance of methanogenic bacteria in biogas formation. In this study, we conducted nutritional testing on molasses and coconut water to determine which nutrients optimize biogas production efficiency by monitoring the pressure of the generated biogas. Generally, biogas comprises methane and carbon dioxide. It is important to note that excessive methane can lead to explosions, while high carbon dioxide levels contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. The quantities of methane and carbon dioxide produced during biogas generation can be influenced by temperature and humidity. Therefore, monitoring pressure, temperature, humidity, methane, and carbon dioxide levels in the biogas production process using the Internet of Things (IoT) is a prudent approach. The results indicate that a substrate mixed with molasses produces biogas at twice the pressure compared to coconut water. Furthermore, optimal biogas production with ideal methane and carbon dioxide levels, occurs at temperatures between 25-35°C under high humidity conditions. This suggests that mesophilic methanogenic bacteria thrive in tropical climates.

Trends in cardiovascular and cerebrovascular health scores in the Kailuan population from 2006 to 2011.

The American Heart Association defines cardiovascular health in terms of four behaviors (smoking, diet, physical activity, and body weight) and three factors (plasma glucose, cholesterol, and blood pressure). By this definition, the prevalence of ideal cardiovascular health behaviors and factors (ICHBF) is negatively correlated with all-cause mortality and risks of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases and malignancy. To investigate the changing trends of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular health scores in the Kailuan study population from 2006 to 2011. The Kailuan population data from three health checkups held in 2006-2007, 2008-2009, and 2010-2011 were analyzed, and the constituent ratios of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular health behaviors and factors at ideal, intermediate, and poor levels were calculated by using Huffman and Capewell method. Simultaneously, the cardiovascular and cerebrovascular health behavior and factor scores were calculated. From 2006 to 2007, the proportion of people with ideal physical exercise, low salt diet, ideal body mass index, ideal total cholesterol level, no smoking, ideal blood sugar, and ideal blood pressure was 13.12%, 9.34%, 49.17%, 64.20%, 49.27%, 69.99%, and 20.55%, respectively, in men with a health score of 8.46, and 12.00%, 9.13%, 61.60%, 64.28%, 98.19%, 78.90% and 36.92% in women, with a score of 10.02. From 2008 to 2009, the proportion was 16.09%, 14.04%, 51.94%, 65.02%, 40.18%, 66.44%, and 17.04% in men, with a score of 8.18, and 16.860%, 17.360%, 64.010%, 67.433%, 98.220%, 76.370%, and 42.340% in women, with a score of 10.12. From 2010 to 2011, the proportion was 12.22%, 17.65%, 49.40%, 68.33%, 48.17%, 64.67%, and 14.68% in males, having a score of 8.21, while in females, the proportion was 11.83%, 18.09%, 49.40%, 67.85%, 98.82%, 74.52%, and 37.78%, with a score of 9.90. The prevalence of ideal cardiovascular and cerebrovascular health behaviors and factors is low in the Kailuan study population due to inadequate scores of relevant health metrics.

Analysis of the Decoupling Level and Water-Saving Targets: Economic Growth and Water Consumption in the Production-Living-Ecological Systems

Understanding the relationship between economic growth and water consumption aids in evaluating economic health and managing water resources. This study analyzes the decoupling level between economic growth and water consumption within the Production-Living-Ecological (PLE) systems, focusing on Guangdong Province, China. Using the Tapio decoupling model, this study identified various decoupling states and calculated target water-saving values for achieving decoupling. Results show Guangdong Province generally has an ideal level of decoupling, with production water consumption effectively controlled alongside economic growth. However, living and ecological water consumption remain closely linked to economic growth. The difficulty of achieving strong and weak decoupling is not significant, with required water savings less than 1%. Despite this, some cities have yet to achieve decoupling, indicating a need for targeted water-saving strategies. This study provides valuable insights for sustainable water resource management in Guangdong and similar regions.

OPTIMIZATION OF FDM 3D PRINTING PARAMETERS FOR TENSILE STRENGTH OF PETG CARBON FIBRE USING TAGUCHI METHOD

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) has become one of the most prevalent technologies in the field of additive manufacturing (AM). Nonetheless, polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG), a polymer renowned for its mechanical strength, has been significantly employed in 3D printing as an alternative to traditional materials. The incorporation of fibers renders PETG-based composites viable for a diverse range of applications. However, the tensile strength of PETG carbon fibre developed using FDM depends on multiple printing conditions. Therefore, this work aims to examine the impact of printing parameters (layer thickness, infill density, and printing speed) at three individual levels on the tensile and structural characteristics of PETG carbon fibre. A total of nine print runs were executed by manipulating the three parameters. Three samples were produced for each run to ensure consistency in the results. Tensile tests on the samples were carried out, and a scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to examine the structure of the printed parts. Finally, L9 (33) orthogonal arrays were developed for the experiment. Following that, an analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted to determine the crucial factors and their ideal levels. The results showed that the infill density parameter significantly influenced the optimization of the tensile strength of PETG carbon fibre. The optimal value for this parameter was found to be 80%. Increasing the density of the infill improves the tensile strength by reducing the air gaps and decreasing deformation, leading to a solid and tightly packed structure. Thereafter, the most effective settings were identified as a layer thickness of 0.4 mm, an infill density of 80%, and a printing speed of 30 mm/s.

Myxoedema coma in a dog with a cervical abscess

AbstractA 7‐year‐old, female, neutered Staffordshire bull terrier was referred with a 2‐month history of a ventral cervical mass, a recent development of generalised skin swelling and a history of sad facial expression for the last 4 years. Clinical examination revealed generalised non‐pitting oedema and depressed mentation. A tentative diagnosis of myxoedema coma was made based on clinical findings and laboratory results. Treatment with oral levothyroxine was administered, and a marked reduction of the non‐pitting oedema was observed after 48 hours. Total T4 (&lt;6 nmol/L; reference interval: 10–45) and thyroid‐stimulating hormone (0.79 ng/mL; reference interval: 0.00–0.60) levels confirmed hypothyroidism. A migrating foreign body causing a cervical abscess was detected and removed by exploratory surgery. At 2‐month follow‐up, the clinical signs had resolved and total T4 levels were at the ideal level. This case emphasises the importance of early recognition and treatment of myxoedema in dogs presenting with non‐pitting oedema.

Omega 6 fatty acids: helpful, harmless or harmful?

This paper reviews the most recent literature from January 2023 to August 2024 on the physiological effects of n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), with a focus on linoleic acid (LA). Contrary to previous concerns that high LA intake may increase inflammation, most recent evidence supports the benefits of LA for cardiometabolic health. Several large studies report that higher blood LA levels correlate with reduced risks of coronary heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. Potential mechanisms include activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors and modulation of oxylipins involved in glucose and lipid metabolism. The ideal LA intake level remains uncertain, but current intakes around 5-10% of energy appear beneficial. In other areas like cancer, asthma and sleep, the evidence is still inconclusive on LA's effects. More research on diverse populations is needed to determine optimal LA levels, effects on specific conditions, and interactions with genetic factors affecting PUFA metabolism. Overall, the review highlights the emerging view that LA, the primary dietary n-6 PUFA, has cardiometabolic benefits rather than harmful effects.