Lower Weight Loss Research Articles

Assessment of the Dietary Intake Changes in Patients with Head and Neck Cancer Treated with Radical Radiotherapy.

Patients during radiotherapy due to head and neck cancers experience a lot of side effects which may have a considerable impact on the patients' ability to meet individual daily energy demands by means of oral diet. The study included 104 head and neck cancer patients who qualified for radical radiotherapy. Radical treatment takes 6 weeks and every week the patients were assessed for dietary intake. The subjects were covered with the constant care of a dietician, received FSMP (food for special medical purposes), and, if necessary, enteral nutrition. In the first week of treatment, the patients, from the kitchen diet alone, met 91.5% of the energy demand, while in the last week of treatment, only 40.9%. After introducing the FSMP or enteral nutrition, the patients met 120% of the demand in the first week of therapy and 95% in the last week, respectively. The patients who followed the dietary recommendations were characterized by significantly lower weight loss (3.07 kg) compared to non-adherent patients (5.56 kg). The used therapy significantly contributed to decreasing nutritional intake in the subsequent weeks of treatment. On the other hand, incorporating FSMP in the diet and enteral nutrition with industrial diets significantly increased the fulfilled energy demand of patients.

Prognostic significance of body mass index and weight loss in patients with idiopathic pleuroparenchymal fibroelastosis.

Idiopathic pleuroparenchymal fibroelastosis (IPPFE) is a rare form of idiopathic interstitial pneumonias; its physical characteristics include a slender build with platythorax and progressive weight loss. However, the clinical significance of body mass index (BMI) and weight loss remains unclear in patients with IPPFE. Therefore, we aimed to clarify the association between baseline BMI, weight loss after diagnosis, and the prognosis of patients with IPPFE. This retrospective study included 71 patients diagnosed with IPPFE at our institution between 2005-2021. BMI at diagnosis was classified into three: underweight (<18.5 kg/m2), normal weight (≥18.5 to <25.0 kg/m2), or overweight (≥25.0 kg/m2). An annual rate of weight change after the diagnosis was evaluated, and ≥5% per year decrease was defined as a significant weight loss. We investigated clinical features and prognosis based on baseline BMI and weight loss. Of the 71 patients, 48 (67.6%) and 23 (32.4%) were classified as underweight and normal weight, respectively, and none were overweight. Significant weight loss occurred in 24 (33.8%) patients, and they tended to have more cases of dyspnea and had significantly older age, lower BMI, higher rates of co-existence of lower-lobe interstitial lung disease, lower pulmonary function test results and higher incidence of pneumothorax after the diagnosis than those without weight loss. Patients with BMI <18.5 kg/m2 and those with weight loss had a significantly worse prognosis than those with BMI ≥18.5 kg/m2 or those without weight loss, respectively (p=0.005, p<0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed that low BMI and weight loss were independent poor prognostic factors. Low BMI and weight loss are associated with poor prognosis in patients with IPPFE.

The Effect of Exogenous Selenium Supplementation on the Nutritional Value and Shelf Life of Lettuce

Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) is rich in vitamins, minerals, and bioactive components, serving as an important source of selenium (Se) intake for humans. This study investigated the effects of Se treatment on lettuce using different concentrations of sodium selenite (Na2SeO3), focusing on biomass, physiological indicators, nutritional composition, and physiological changes during storage. Through correlation analysis of the transcriptome and Se species, the absorption and conversion mechanisms of Se in lettuce were revealed. The results showed that Se treatment initially increased the chlorophyll content in lettuce, followed by a decrease. Soluble sugar, soluble protein, total phenols, and anthocyanins increased at low Se concentrations but decreased at high concentrations. Flavonoid content decreased only at 1 mg/L Se, while other treatments were higher than the control group. GSH content and superoxide dismutase, catalase, and peroxidase activities initially increased and then decreased, while malondialdehyde (MDA) content first decreased and then increased. Five Se species, including Se (IV), Se (VI), selenocysteine (SeCys2), selenomethionine (SeMet), and methylselenocysteine (MeSeCys), were detected in lettuce leaves after Se treatment, with SeMet being the most abundant. During storage, Se-treated lettuce exhibited lower weight loss, a*, b*, browning index, and color difference (ΔE) values compared to the control group. CAT and POD activities and GSH content also followed a trend of initial increase followed by a decrease. Transcriptome data analysis revealed that genes such as MYB1, RPK1, PTR44, NTRC, WRKY7, and CSLD3 were associated with the stress response of Se-treated lettuce.

Polybenzimidazole dispersed polymer coated nanowires as efficient electrolytes for proton exchange membrane fuel cells

In this study, polymer-coated anisotropic inorganic nanowires dispersed in PBI matrix were introduced to construct 1D proton conducting channels within PBI. Ionic-liquid and solvothermal methods were used for the synthesis of ZrO2 and W18O49 NWs, which were coated with PVPA and PDDA polymers to increase their proton conductivity. Our results showed that, prepared membranes have amorphous nature due to the dominating presence of PBI. SEM analysis revealed the average thickness of membrane of about 36 µm. TG/DTA analysis detected lower weight loss of W18O49 NWs (total 2.8%) compared to ZrO2 NWs (18%). Proton conductivity analysis showed that, PDDA/W18O49 NWs possess relatively 4 times higher proton conductivity (4×\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$ \ imes $$\\end{document}10−4 Scm−1) compared to PDDA/ZrO2 NWs (1×\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$ \ imes $$\\end{document}10−4 Scm−1) at 80 ℃. In addition, PDDA-coated W18O49 NWs dispersed PBI membranes showed the highest fuel cell current density (1.2 A/cm2) and power density (215 mW/cm2) at 150 ℃ after 24 h which is nearly 2.5 times higher than pure PBI membrane. In addition, they exhibited the lowest in-situ proton resistance of about (0.47 Ω) compared with that of pure PBI membrane (0.8 Ω). Our results are introducing new concepts towards the development of thin and efficient polymer electrolyte membranes for PEM fuel cells.

Relationships between weight loss during short‐term feed deprivation, feed conversion efficiency, and growth in Delta Select and Delta Control line channel catfish families

AbstractWeight loss during feed deprivation is correlated with feed conversion efficiency (FCR) in several fish species, suggesting weight loss could be used to indirectly select for improved feed conversion. Trials were conducted to determine relationships among weight loss and FCR with Delta Select and Delta Control line channel catfish fingerlings. Weight loss was measured for 79 Delta Select line families and 20 Delta Control line families in replicate feed deprivation trials. Weight loss was higher for Delta Controls than Delta Selects. The 10 Delta Select families with the highest weight loss, 10 Delta Select families with the lowest weight loss, and 10 random Delta Control families were used in a feeding trial. Initial weight, final weight, percent weight gain, and percent feed consumption were similar among Delta Select groups but higher than the Delta Control's. Feed conversion and survival were similar for all groups. Fish from the feeding trial were used in a third feed deprivation trial. Family means for weight loss were positively correlated across three feed deprivation trials but not correlated with feed conversion indicating selection for weight‐loss would not improve feed conversion. The faster growth of Delta Select catfish is as a result of increased feed consumption.

Post-harvest quality of fresh pitombas submitted to different temperatures and packages

The aim was to assess the effect of different temperatures and packages on the post-harvest attributes of fresh pitomba during the storage period. Tested temperatures were 6, 8, 10, 12, and 14±1 °C at 75±5% relative humidity, while packages were polypropylene (PP), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC) + expanded polystyrene (EPS), as well as no packaging (control). Fruits were assessed for 12 days, with three replications with 10 fruits each. Thus, the design used was completely randomized in a 5 x 5 x 7 factorial scheme (5 temperatures x 5 packages x 7 days of analysis). The associated effect of storage at 6 °C associated with LDPE packaging can be recommended to store pitombas for 12 days, as it presents low weight loss and maturity index. In addition, the temperature of 14 °C can also be used, as fruits showed high values of bioactive compounds.

Preserving functional properties and inhibiting postharvest peel browning in guava during cold storage via 24-epibrassinolide application

Postharvest peel browning is one of the primary issues accountable for the subdued consumer acceptability and market value of guava fruit. However, postharvest treatment with brassinosteroid can reduce the peel browning to some extent through various modes of action. In current study, the influence of exogenous 24-epibrassinolide (EBL) application on antioxidant system and chilling injury (CI) characteristics of guavas during cold storage at 10 ± 1 ℃ were assessed. The mature green fruit exposed to various concentrations (15, 30, 45, 60 and 75 µg kg−1) of EBL displayed a notably lower fruit weight loss, respiration rate, electrolyte leakage and CI index, while higher consumer acceptability. Further, treatment with EBL has recorded lower amassing of hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde by suppressing lipoxygenase activity. Postharvest EBL application also heightened the content of total phenolics, ascorbic acid, total flavonoids and total antioxidant capacity. The enhanced activities of ascorbate peroxidase, catalase, superoxide dismutase and peroxidase due to EBL application impede the burst of reactive oxygen species. Moreover, correlation and regression analysis of tested biochemical parameters including enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants exhibited a strong association and contributed 98.24–99.88 % variability in fruit weight loss, respiration rate, electrolyte leakage, CI index and consumer acceptability. Among different concentrations tested, 60 µg kg−1 EBL-treated guavas exhibited the desirable qualities and least CI index. From the study, it is concluded that the novelty of EBL can be gainfully harnessed in a postharvest handling system to induce cold tolerance and widen the storage life of cold-stored guava fruit.

Advancing Sustainability and Performance with Crushed Bottom Ash as Filler in Polymer-Modified Asphalt Concrete Mixtures.

Amid the growing demand for sustainable pavement solutions and the need to incorporate recycled materials into construction practices, this study explored the viability of using crushed thermal power plant bottom ash as a filler in polymer-modified asphalt concrete mixtures. Conventional lime filler was replaced with bottom ash at varying levels (0%, 25%, 50%, and 75%), and the resulting mixtures were evaluated using several performance tests. The optimal replacement level was determined to be 25%, based on the results of the indirect tensile strength (ITS) test. Comparisons between the control mixture and the 25% bottom ash-modified mixture were conducted using the dynamic modulus test, Cantabro test, Hamburg wheel tracking (HWT) test, and tensile strength ratio (TSR) test. The findings indicate that the 25% bottom ash-modified mixture demonstrated improved performance across multiple parameters. The HWT test showed enhanced rut durability, with a recorded depth of 7.56 mm compared to 8.9 mm for the control mixture. The Cantabro test results revealed lower weight loss percentages for the modified mixture, indicating better abrasion resistance. The dynamic modulus test indicated higher resilience and stiffness in both high- and low-frequency stages. The TSR test highlighted improved moisture resistance, with higher TSR values after 10 wet-drying cycles. These improvements are attributed to the fine particle size and beneficial chemical composition of bottom ash, which enhance the asphalt mixture's density, binder-aggregate adhesion, and overall durability. The results suggest that incorporating 25% crushed bottom ash as a filler in polymer-modified asphalt concrete mixtures is a viable and sustainable approach to improving pavement performance and longevity.

Effects of Packaging Material and Moisture Contents on Pulse Beetle Infestation under Different Storage Conditions in Chickpea

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is an important pulse crop grown globally for its nutritional richness and versatility which offers a significant source for both carbohydrates and protein. Chickpea seeds face a significant threat from various insect pests among these pulse beetles or bruchids (Callosobruchus spp.) stand out as the most destructive, inflicting damage ranging from 50% to 60% during storage. Bruchids are considered minor pests in the field, but they pose a serious threat during storage, leading to both quantitative and qualitative losses. The present investigation was carried out with the objective of studying the influence of ambient and cold storage conditions on storability and to assess the pest infestation (pulse beetle) under ambient and cold storage conditions in two chickpea varieties viz., JG-11 (desi) and NBeG-119 (kabuli). The seed was thoroughly sun dried to two moisture levels of seven and nine percent and stored in gunny and grain pro bags (hermetic bags). Gunny bags were kept at ambient storage as well as in the cold storage, while grain pro bags were stored at ambient storage conditions only as these are the hermetic bags and the dry chain technology concept holds good for storage at ambient conditions only. Highest % seed damage (12.11 % in JG-11 and 13.00 % in NBeG-119) was noticed in seeds stored with nine per cent moisture content while, the lowest % seed damage (9.50 % in JG-11 and 9.83 % in NBeG 119) was recorded in seeds with seven per cent moisture content. After 8 months of storage highest per cent fecundity (151.66 and 144.66 in JG-11 and 145.00 and 138.50 in NBeG-119) was recorded in seeds stored in gunny bags kept at ambient storage with nine and seven per cent moisture respectively, followed by the seed stored in grain pro bags at ambient storage with nine percent seed moisture (9.667 in JG-11 and 7.833 in NBeG-119) and no fecundity was recorded in seeds stored in gunny bag at cold storage. At the end of storage period highest adult emergence was recorded in seeds stored in gunny bag at ambient storage with nine (196.83 in JG-11 and 217.17 in NBeG-119) and seven (187.83 in JG-11 and 207.83 in NBeG-119) per cent seed moisture followed by the seed stored in grain pro bags at ambient storage with nine percent seed moisture (11.67 in JG-11 and 13.00 in NBeG-119) and no adult emergence was recorded in seeds stored in gunny bag at cold storage (0.00 in JG-11 and 0.00 in NBeG-119 ) with seven and nine percent moisture at the end of the storage. Highest weight loss % (2.019% in JG-11 and 1.866% in NBeG-119) was recorded in seeds stored with nine per cent moisture content. While, the lowest weight loss % (1.679% in JG-11 and 1.772% in NBeG-119) was noticed in seeds stored with seven per cent moisture at the end of storage period.

Effect of the addition of black garlic on the quality parameters of jerked beef meat with pork.

The objective of this work was to evaluate the effects of the replacement of nitrite by natural antioxidants from black garlic (BG) on the quality parameters of jerked beef meat with pork for 60 days. Four formulations were prepared: control, 0.02% of sodium nitrite in brine curing, w/v (CON); 1.5% BG in brine curing, w/v (ASU); 1.5% BG in dry curing, w/w (ASS); and 1.5% of BG in the brine curing, w/v and 1.5% of BG in dry curing, w/w (ASUS). Nutritional composition, pH, water activity, shear force, fatty acid profile, color, and oxidative stability of the formulations were analyzed. The addition of BG did not affect the nutritional composition, pH, water activity, shear force, and fatty acid profile. On the other hand, it resulted in lower weight loss after centrifugation and lower values of L* and a*. TBARS values from the 30th day of storage were lower in the ASUS formulation, while carbonyl compounds at all times were lower than in the CON formulation. Results suggest that BG was an efficient alternative to nitrite in controlling protein oxidation during storage. Thus, the use of pork for the manufacture of jerked beef can be an alternative, and black garlic can be applied as a natural additive to the replacement of nitrite. In addition, black garlic was efficient in improving the oxidative stability of the jerked beef meat with pork.

Catalytic Thermocuring and Synergistic Photothermocuring of Single-Component Acrylate-Grafted Liquid Oligosilazanes.

A novel thermosetting preceramic resin called acrylate-grafted liquid polysilazane (ALSZ) was readily synthesized. The curing behaviors of ALSZ were investigated by the techniques of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and rheological tests. The catalytic thermocuring process was controlled by the addition of a polymerization accelerator composed of a radical initiator (cumene hydroperoxide) and a transition metal catalyst (nickel naphthenate or cobalt naphthenate). Photocuring at room temperature can proceed readily by the addition of photosensitizer 819 (phenylbis(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl) phosphine oxide). By combining a radical initiator, a transition metal catalyst, and a photosensitizer, synergistic photothermocuring was achieved, demonstrating advantages such as material shaping at room temperature and low weight loss during curing. The ceramization of the solidified ceramic precursors in an Ar atmosphere was studied using TGA and tube furnace pyrolysis. ALSZs exhibited comparatively high ceramic transformation yields (71-75% at 800 °C). The resulting pyrolytic ceramics maintained their original shape without deformation or foaming expansion. Polysilazanes containing acrylate groups can directly form casting bodies, showing a high static glass transition temperature (>380 °C) by thermomechanical analysis (TMA). FT-IR analyses revealed that multiple reactions are involved in the curing of ALSZ. The results in this paper showed that ALSZ might find prospective applications in material processing, such as additive manufacturing and ceramic-matrix composites.

Comprehensive analysis of predictive factors for efficacy in concurrent chemo-radiotherapy for locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer, utilizing individual patient data from the Japan lung cancer society integrated clinical trial database: Is there room for further improvement?

8043 Background: The standard treatment for unresectable, locally advanced NSCLC is concurrent chemoradiotherapy followed by durvalumab. While the effectiveness of chemoradiotherapy is pivotal, the exploration into predictive factors of the efficacy is notably limited. Methods: The Japanese Lung Cancer Society (JLCS) integrated eight randomized Phase II/III trials (JCOG9812, JCOG0301, NJLCG0601, OLCSG0007, SPECTRA, TORG1018, WJOG5008L, WJTOG0105) concerning chemoradiotherapy for locally advanced NSCLC, constructing the JLCS Integrated Clinical Trial Database (JIDB), with individual data of 1288 patients. This study analyzed 1162 patients who underwent concurrent chemoradiotherapy, focusing on factors impacting PFS. A logistic regression with the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) analyses for 3-yr PFS were performed, and the five most related factors were further evaluated using the Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank tests. The impact of pneumonitis and esophagitis on PFS was also explored. Results: Age [median (Q1;Q3)]; 64 (57;71), male/female; 961/201, Ad/Sq/Oth; 580/446/134, PS 0/1/2; 562/578/5, stage IIIA/IIIB; 468/694, T factor 4/3/2/1/0; 436/158/341/156/3, N factor 3/2/1/0; 300/692/44/62, PS 0/1/2; 562/578/5, primary site; upper, middle/lower lobe; 599/161, BMI; 21.8 (19.7;24.0), weight loss (≥5% within 6m) yes/no; 135/644, LDH (IU/l); 203 (175;276), CRP (mg/dl); 0.70 (0.20;2.60), irradiated dose (Gy); 60 (60;60), combined regimen; platinum/taxane 303, CDDP/mitomycin/vindesine; 254, CDDP/5-FU-based; 196, CDDP/vinorelbine 87, CDDP/pemetrexed 50, others 272. The median PFS in all patients was 9.72m (95% CI; 9.33 – 10.38), with 3-yr, 5-yr, and 10-yr PFS rates of 19.7, 14.3, 10.1%. LASSO logistic regression identified Sq, lower lobe primary, age, pack-years, and weight loss as the top negative influencers. The PFS curve was significantly shorter in patients with lower lobe primary (median of 8.15 vs. 9.46m, p = 0.023) and weight loss (median of 7.29 vs. 9.72m, p &lt; 0.0001). Pneumonitis occurred in 50.9% (grade≥3 in 6.7%) and esophagitis in 41.9% (grade≥3 in 3.9%). Grade≥2 pneumonitis shortened PFS (8.2 vs. 10.2m, p = 0.00015), while, unexpectedly, grade≥1 esophagitis was associated with longer PFS (12.9 vs. 8.6m, p &lt; 0.0001). Conclusions: The efficacy of concurrent chemoradiotherapy varies significantly based on the primary site. Weight loss is a significant predictor of efficacy, as is in metastatic disease. The impact of pneumonitis and esophagitis suggest that modifying lung and esophageal irradiation might enhance treatment efficacy. Further research in this area is still certainly warranted.

Susut Bobot dan Kadar Air Tajuk Tanaman Pakcoy Akibat Pengaruh Jenis Media Tanam dan Konsentrasi Nutrisi AB Mix

Pakcoy (Brassica rapa subsp. chinensis) is a type of vegetable commonly cultivated using hydroponic systems. The weight loss and moisture content of pakcoy plant shoots can be influenced by the type of growing media and the concentration of AB Mix nutrients. Each type of growing medium has distinct physical and chemical properties. The combination of different AB Mix nutrient concentrations with various growing media types results in varying weight loss and moisture content in the plant shoots. Pakcoy plants with lower weight loss and higher shoot moisture content exhibit better storage resistance. The research method employed was a Factorial Randomized Block Design with two factors: the first factor being the type of growing media (burnt rice husk, cocopeat, rockwool), and the second factor being the concentration of AB Mix nutrients (1,000, 1,200, and 1,400 ppm). The results indicated that rockwool, combined with an AB Mix nutrient concentration of 1,000 ppm, resulted in the lowest weight loss and the highest shoot moisture content compared to other treatments.

Development And Acceptability of Banana (Esp. Damilig-Musa Acuminata) Fiber as Alternative Source of Natural Fabric

Banana fiber yarn is a natural best fiber derived from the inner bark (or phloem) of banana plants. It is a very eco-friendly material, which also has the advantage of being completely biodegradable. This yarn is also known as banana silk, due to the shiny and silky aspect of the most precious fibers, or Musa yarn, from the Musa genre to which the banana plant belongs. The study will focus on the Development and Acceptability of Banana (Esp. Damilig-Musa Acuminata) Fiber as Alternative Source of Natural Fabric. The panel of experts will evaluate the following namely: DOST personnel, Garments instructor, fashion designer/ textile experts and Faculty and garments fashion and design students of Isabela State University – Ilagan Campus. The purpose of this research is to develop and test the effectiveness of banana (Damilig-musa acuminata), specifically its pseudo-stem. The researcher aims to unlock the following queries: 1. What are the processes used in the production of yarn? 2. What will be the outcome of the develop banana (Damilig-musa acuminata) after the process of fiber extraction in terms of texture, appearance and durability. 3. What will be the assessment and acceptability of the banana yarn (Damilig-musa acuminata) after weaving process is completed in terms of colorfastness, crease resistant and fabric shrinkage The descriptive type of research will applied in the study with the set of survey questionnaire as the main instrument in gathering data. The weighted mean will also utilizes to determine the general acceptability of the study. The study will use the five-point Likert rating scale. The process will conduct in accordance to Development and Acceptability of Banana (Esp. Damilig-Musa Acuminata) Fiber as Alternative Source of Natural Fabric. The procedures are harvesting, peeling, retting, and sun drying, grouping, spinning and weaving. Evaluation results will show that the project obtained an overall mean of 4.38 to the development of fiber and 3.45 to the level of acceptability of fabric which means that the Development and Acceptability of Banana (Esp. Damilig-Musa Acuminata) Fiber as Alternative Source of Natural Fabric is Moderately Acceptable to the panel of experts based on the criteria checklist. Based on the results of the experiments, it can be concluded that banana fibers can be used as an alternative source of natural fibers because they have several inherent advantages over cotton fiber. Because of the abundance of raw material in nature each year, banana fiber-based yarns and fabrics are less expensive and more sustainable. Because of the low fiber weight and strength loss, softening banana fibers by boiling in distilled water was found to be a better treatment.

Development of Macro-Encapsulated Phase-Change Material Using Composite of NaCl-Al2O3 with Characteristics of Self-Standing

Developing thermal storage materials is crucial for the efficient recovery of thermal energy. Salt-based phase-change materials have been widely studied. Despite their high thermal storage density and low cost, they still face issues such as low thermal conductivity and easy leaks. Therefore, a new type of NaCl-Al2O3@SiC@Al2O3 macrocapsule was developed to address these drawbacks, and it exhibited excellent rapid heat storage and release capabilities and was extremely stable, significantly reducing the risk of leakage at high temperatures for industrial waste heat recovery and in concentrated solar power systems above 800 °C. Thermal storage macrocapsules consisted of a double-layer encapsulation of silicon carbide and alumina and a self-standing core of NaCl-Al2O3. After enduring over 1000 h at a high temperature of 850 °C, the encapsulated phase-change material exhibited an extremely low weight loss rate of less than 5% compared with NaCl@Al2O3 and NaCl-Al2O3@Al2O3 macrocapsules, for which the weight loss rate was reduced by 25% and 10%, respectively, proving their excellent leakage prevention. The SiC powder layer, serving as an intermediate coating, further prevented leakage, while the use of Al2O3 ceramics for encapsulation enhanced the overall mechanical strength. It was innovatively discovered that the Al2O3 particles formed a network structure around the molten NaCl, playing an important role in maintaining the shape and preventing leakage of the composite thermal storage phase-change material. Furthermore, the addition of Al2O3 significantly enhanced the rapid heat storage and release rate of NaCl-Al2O3 compared to pure NaCl. This encapsulated phase-change material demonstrated outstanding durability and rapid heat storage and release performance, offering an innovative approach to the application of salt phase-change materials in the field of high temperature rapid heat storage and release and encapsulating NaCl as a high-temperature thermal storage material in a packed bed system. Compared with conventional salt-based phase-change materials, the developed product is expected to significantly improve the reliability and thermal efficiency of thermal storage systems.

Comparative study on graphene oxide and sulfonated graphene oxide reinforced polyethersulfone-based cation-exchange membrane

In this research, polyethersulfone/sulfonated graphene oxide (PES/SGO) heterogeneous cation exchange membranes were fabricated by the mold casting method. The sulfonation of GO was carried out using the diazonium salt of sulfanilic acid. The properties of the synthesized GO and SGO were compared in terms of chemical structure, morphology, surface charge, crystallinity, and thermal stability. The variations in surface morphology and roughness, hydrophilicity, dimensional stability, and ionic conductivity of the PES-based membranes as a function of GO and SGO content were investigated. Results revealed that SGO enjoyed a higher level of oxygenated groups contributing to its higher surface charge. SGO also tolerated a higher temperature before being fully decomposed due to the presence of the sulfur-containing groups. A finer nanostructured morphology was observed in the SGO-containing membranes, resulting in a considerably lower surface roughness of these membranes than the corresponding GO-based membranes. The membrane comprising 10 wt% SGO showed the lowest surface roughness of 88 nm, and the highest water uptake of 16.66 %, ion-exchange capacity of 1.12 meq g-1, and the lowest charge transfer resistance of 3.6 Ω and area resistance of 0.9 Ωcm2. This was accompanied with a considerable increment in the permselectivity and cation (Na+) transport number of this membrane to 95.9 % and 97.5 %, respectively, due to the higher surface adhesion energy of 94.57 J m-2 and higher Na+ flux of 4.43×10-7 mol m-2 s-1, which were significantly higher than that obtained for the corresponding PES-based membrane containing 10 wt% GO. Furthermore, a lower weight loss and resistance change were observed for PES/SGO after being exposed to the Fenton reagent for 9 h, indicating the impact of the sulfonated groups on the oxidative stability enhancement of the membrane.

Comparison between total weight loss and other metrics after bariatric surgery using a multilevel mixed-effects linear regression model.

Several tools are used to assess postoperative weight loss after bariatric surgery, including the percentage of excess body weight loss (%EWL), percentage of total weight loss (%TWL), and percentage of excess body mass index (BMI) loss (%EBMIL). A repeated series of measurements should be considered to assess weight loss as accurately as possible. This study aimed to test weight loss metrics. Data were obtained from a prospective database of patients with obesity who underwent laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) or laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) between 2016 and 2017 in a French tertiary referral bariatric center. A multilevel mixed-effects linear regression model with repeated measures was used to analyze repeated weight measurements over time. A total of 435 patients underwent LRYGB (n = 266) or LSG (n = 169). At 2years, the average %EWL, %EBMIL, and %TWL were 56.8%, 61.3%, and 26.6%, respectively. Patients who underwent LSG experienced lower weight loss (β: -4233 in %TWL model, β: -6437 in %EWL model, and β: -6989 in %EBMIL model) than those who underwent LRYGB. In multivariate mixed analysis, preoperative BMI was not significantly associated with %TWL at 2years (β, -0.09 [-0.22-0.03] p = 0.1). Preoperative BMI was negatively associated with both %EWL (β, -1.61 [-1.84--1.38] p < 0.0001) and %EBMIL (β, -1.91 [-2.16--1.66] p < 0.0001). This is the first study to assess %TWL use for postoperative weight measurement, using a multilevel mixed-effects linear regression model %TWL is the measure of choice to assess weight loss following bariatric surgery.

Characterization of feruloylated arabinoxylan - acorn starch double network gel composite film and its application in postharvest preservation of Agaricus bisporus

To obtain efficient natural food packaging materials, we utilized acorn starch (AS)-based film strengthened by feruloylated arabinoxylan (FAX) gel and additional retrogradation treatment to extend the shelf life of Agaricus bisporus (A. bisporus). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses showed that due to the strong hydrogen bonding between FAX and starch molecules, physical crosslinking occurred between FAX and starch molecules in the composite film, and the microstructure became more compact. Thermogravimetric, tensile strength and swelling degree analyses indicate that the composite film exhibits better thermal stability, mechanical properties, and waterproofing compared to the pure AS film. Consequently, after five days of storage, the moisture content of the A. bisporus packaged with our composite film was 7.53 times and 5.73 times higher than that of the control group and the commercially available PEF group, respectively. Moreover, it delayed the respiration or transpiration of A. bisporus (lower weight loss, relative conductivity, MDA content). This packaging film developed with the objective of eco-friendly and biodegradability has considerable application potential in food and other industries.

Tuning Microstructure of Mesophase Pitch Carbon Fiber by Altering the Carbonization Ramp Rate

The microstructure of mesophase pitch carbon fibers (CFs) are tuned by varying ramp rates from 1 to 50 °C min−1 up to 1000 °C to study the effect of ramp rate on CFs’ microstructure, thermal and mechanical properties with the goal of offsetting the cost by decreasing cycle time. The ramp rates represent carbonization times ranging from 16.4 to 1.17 h, not including cool down. Differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, and derivative thermogravimetry are used to investigate the impact ramp rate has on the thermal properties of mesophase pitch. It is found that lower ramp rates are endothermic in nature with a lower temperature onset and maximum weight loss. Higher ramp rates possess an exothermic nature with higher temperatures resulting in maximal weight loss over a smaller range of temperatures. Mechanical testing shows varying CF strengths and moduli dependent on ramp rate and an optimized process is developed to produce the strongest CF. Microstructural characterization revealed that faster ramp rates lead to smaller interplanar spacings and larger crystallites but possessed greater disorder.

Intermittent preventive treatment with sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine but not dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine modulates the relationship between inflammatory markers and adverse pregnancy outcomes in Malawi.

Women in malaria-endemic areas receive sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP) as Intermittent Preventive Treatment in Pregnancy (IPTp) to reduce malaria. While dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine (DP) has superior antimalarial properties as IPTp, SP is associated with superior fetal growth. As maternal inflammation influences fetal growth, we investigated whether SP alters the relationship between inflammation and birth outcomes. We measured C-reactive protein (CRP) and alpha-1-acid glycoprotein (AGP) at enrollment (16-28 gestation weeks (gw)), visit 3 (24-36 gw) and delivery in 1319 Malawian women randomized to receive monthly SP, DP, or DP and single-dose azithromycin (AZ) in the IMPROVE trial (NCT03208179). Logistic regression was used to assess the relationship between adverse outcomes, inflammation, and treatment arm. Elevated AGP at enrollment was associated with adverse birth outcome (aRR 1.40, 95% CI: 1.15, 1.70), with similar associations observed across treatment arms, exceptions being that elevated AGP was associated with low maternal weight gain in SP recipients (aRR 1.94, 95% CI: 1.36, 2.76) and with small for gestational age in DP+AZ recepients (aRR 1.49, 95% CI 1.02, 2.17). At visit 3 there were few associations between inflammation andoutcomes. At delivery, women with elevated AGP receiving either DP or DP+AZ had an increased risk of adverse birth outcomes (aRR 1.60, 95% CI: 1.28, 2.00), including low birth weight, pre-term birth and foetal loss, this was not seen in women receiving SP (aRR 0.82, 95% CI: 0.54, 1.26). The risk of an association between elevated AGP and adverse birth outcome was higher in those receiving DP or DP+AZ compared to those receiving SP (aRR 1.95, 95% CI: 1.21, 3.13). No clear associations between CRP and adverse outcomes were observed. AGP identified women at risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. SP modifies the relationship between inflammatory biomarkers and adverse outcomes. Our findings provide insights into potential mechanisms by which SP may improve pregnancy outcomes.