Lubricity Improver Research Articles

Efficacy of a couple-based intervention addressing sexual concerns for breast cancer survivors: Results of a randomized controlled trial.

Sexual concerns are common and problematic for breast cancer survivors. Partner and relationship factors often play a key role in determining survivors' sexual adjustment, making it likely that couple-based interventions that integrate survivors' partners could be especially promising for addressing survivors' sexual concerns. Yet few such interventions have been tested. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the Intimacy Enhancement (IE) intervention, a four-session, couple-based intervention addressing breast cancer survivors' sexual concerns by telephone in a randomized controlled trial. Female posttreatment breast cancer survivors reporting sexual concerns and their intimate partners (N=120 couples; 240 participants) were randomized either to the IE intervention or to Living Healthy Together (LHT), an active control intervention of equivalent length. Outcomes (measured at baseline, postintervention, and at 3 and 6 months postintervention) included breast cancer survivors' sexual function (primary), partners' sexual function (secondary), and survivors' and partners' psychosocial and relationship outcomes (secondary). Mixed linear regression models examined intervention effects on outcomes at all follow-ups. Model-based estimates of intervention effects showed greater improvements in survivors' overall sexual function, sexual satisfaction, arousal, lubrication, and orgasm at postintervention (p<.05). Effects on survivors' 3-month and 6-month sexual functioning or other secondary outcomes were minimal. Most couples completed all IE sessions (97%) and LHT (92%), and satisfaction ratings were high. Compared with an active control intervention, the IE intervention had significant short-term benefits for survivors' sexual function. Efforts may be needed to increase the longevity of the positive effects, such as more frequent or adjunctive treatments.

Achieving precise graphenization of diamond coatings below the interfacial thermal stress threshold

Abstract Diamond coatings possess numerous excellent properties, making them desirable materials for high-performance surface applications. However, without a revolutionary surface modification method, the surface roughness and friction behavior of diamond coatings can impede their ability to meet the demanding requirements of advanced engineering surfaces. This study proposed the thermal stress control at coating interfaces and demonstrated a novel process of precise graphenization on conventional diamond coatings surface through laser induction and mechanical cleavage, without causing damage to the metal substrate. Through experiments and simulations, the influence mechanism of surface graphitization and interfacial thermal stress was elucidated, ultimately enabling rapid conversion of the diamond coating surface to graphene while controlling the coating’s thickness and roughness. Compared to the original diamond coatings, the obtained surfaces exhibited a 63%–72% reduction in friction coefficients, all of which were below 0.1, with a minimum of 0.06, and a 59%–67% decrease in specific wear rates. Moreover, adhesive wear in the friction counterpart was significantly inhibited, resulting in a reduction in wear by 49%–83%. This demonstrated a significant improvement in lubrication and inhibition of mechanochemical wear properties. This study provides an effective and cost-efficient avenue to overcome the application bottleneck of engineered diamond surfaces, with the potential to significantly enhance the performance and expand the application range of diamond-coated components.

Study on the Surface Texture-Microparticles Synergistic Lubrication Mechanism of Artificial Joint

Abstract After total joint replacement surgery, frequent injection of lubricating substances is required due to lubrication failure caused by the absorption of lubricants by the human body, which will cause serious physiological and psychological burdens on patients. In this study, with the help of surface texture aggregation of particles, gelatin microgel particles with a diameter of about 4 μm were used as lubricating substances to achieve aggregation in the texture, thus improving the friction environment under low-concentration lubricants. The study found that the rectangular cross-sectional texture demonstrated the most effective anti-friction properties, resulting in a 26% reduction in friction coefficient compared to non-textured surfaces. Additionally, utilizing comsol for particle flow simulation, researchers observed the motion behavior of particles within the texture and clarified the mechanism of particle aggregation and the improvement of lubrication on the surface. This article confirms the beneficial effects of combining surface texture and particles on lubrication, thus providing valuable insight for improving lubrication in dilute particle solutions.

(030) HUUDDII: THE CLITORAL SUCTION DEVICE

Abstract Introduction Clitoral blood flow plays an important role in female sexual arousal and overall sexual satisfaction. Typically, sexual arousal results in smooth muscle relaxation and arterial vasodilation within the clitoris. The result is an increase in blood flow and intra-cavernous pressure leading to tumescence and extrusion of the glans clitoris. Several health conditions can impact this mechanism, leading to decreased sexual desire, arousal, orgasm, and satisfaction. Huuddii is a simple, hands-free, disposable product that fits over the clitoris and improves sexual function by combining initial gentle suction and frictional force that stimulates the clitoris and activates the sexual arousal cascade. Huuddii underwent a multicenter non-significant risk clinical and over-the-counter (OTC) label comprehension 510 k study for FDA approval in 2004-2005. The label comprehension test portion of the study was designed to test subject’s ability to correctly self-select for use of this product to treat symptoms related to female sexual dysfunction and understand and correctly use the product as outlined in the consumer instruction guide. The clinical portion of the study was designed to test the safety and efficacy of the device in an OTC environment. Objective To assess the clinical efficacy, safety, and user-friendly nature of Huuddii in improving female sexual function with the goal of OTC FDA approval. Methods Objective data was collected using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). Subjects completed an FSFI questionnaire as a baseline and after device utilization. Subjective data was collected using the Sexual Life Quality Questionnaire (SLQQ) and Female Intervention Efficacy Index (FIEI). The SLQQ and FIEI were completed post-intervention. Results Our objective results as measured by the FSFI revealed that individual success was achieved in “overall improvement in sexual function” in 87% of subjects. Percentages for the following sub-domains of “desire,” “arousal,” “lubrication,” “orgasm,” “satisfaction,” and “pain” were 63%, 92%, 82%, 84%, 79%, and 55%, respectively. Subjective result, 87% of subjects who completed the SLQQ reported improved sexual quality of life and satisfaction while wearing Huuddii. Results of the FIEI demonstrated a 74% improvement in lubrication, 82% increase in genital sensitivity, 66% increase in pleasure associated with intercourse, 63% improvement in orgasm, and 82% increase in overall sexual satisfaction. Ninety-two percent (92%) of subjects claimed they would like to continue using the device after the study was completed. Conclusions Huuddii is a safe, simple, disposable, non-invasive suction cup that assists in achieving and maintaining clitoral tumescence, increases blood flow to the clitoris, and ultimately enhances female sexual function. Disclosure No.

Analysis of Longitudinal Cracking and Mold Flux Optimization in High-Speed Continuous Casting of Hyper-Peritectic Steel Thin Slabs

Longitudinal crack defects are a frequent occurrence on the surface of thin slabs during the high-speed continuous casting process. Therefore, this study undertakes a detailed analysis of the solidification characteristics of hyper-peritectic steel thin slabs. By establishing a three-dimensional heat transfer numerical model of the thin slab, the formation mechanism of longitudinal cracks caused by uneven growth of the initial shell is determined. Based on the mechanism of longitudinal crack formation, by adjusting the performance parameters of the mold flux, the contradiction between the heat transfer control and lubrication improvement of the mold flux is fully coordinated, further reducing the incidence of longitudinal cracks on the surface of the casting thin slab. The results show that, using the optimized mold flux, the basicity increases from 1.60 to 1.68, the F- mass fraction increases from 10.67% to 11.22%, the Na2O mass fraction increases from 4.35% to 5.28%, the Li2O mass fraction increases from 0.68% to 0.75%, and the carbon mass fraction reduces from 10.86% to 10.47%. The crystallization performance and rheological properties of the mold flux significantly improve, reducing the heat transfer performance while ensuring the lubrication ability of the molten slag. After optimizing the mold flux, a surface detection system was used to statistically analyze the longitudinal cracks on the surface of the casting thin slab. The proportion of longitudinal cracks (crack length/steel coil length, where each coil produced is about 32 m long) on the surface of the thin slab decreases from 0.056% to 0.031%, and the surface quality of the thin slab significantly improves.

Effect of tooth surface wear on dynamic characteristics of spur gear transmission system

The meshing stiffness and system dynamic characteristics caused by gear wear fault are studied. Firstly, potential energy method was used to model and solve the meshing stiffness of gears and the effect of wear on the meshing stiffness and static transfer error was analyzed. A 6-dof spur gear dynamics model was established considering various nonlinear factors, and the dynamic responses of the spur gear system under various wear degrees were analyzed by using time domain, spectrum, phase plane, and Poincare mapping. Finally, the visual test platform of the gear box is built, and the wear condition and dynamic response of the gear box under different wear cycles are analyzed. Results show that the meshing stiffness of gear decreases due to wear, and the meshing stiffness of double tooth decreases more than that of single tooth. In addition, the static transmission errors caused by wear changes periodically with meshing frequency. Wear causes the vibration response of gear system to become complex gradually, and the nonlinear of the system is enhanced, which changes from single period motion to quasi period motion. Results can provide theoretical support for gear wear reduction, life extension, vibration reduction, and noise reduction and lubrication improvement.

Policy formulation and advocacy toward developing multifunctional additive packages for diesel fuel

High-performance additive packages can be used to meet the current diesel fuels' ever-increasing quality criteria. Multifunctional fuel additive packages (MFAPs) widely used in diesel fuels play an essential role in optimizing engine performance - improving their performance, durability, and ecological properties of combustion. This is especially significant in the context of rapid technological development and requirements to reduce the negative impact on the environment. This paper analyses the directions, methods, and trends in the development of MFAPs. The key components of these are identified, specifically detergent, which ensures cleanliness of the injector spray nozzle, corrosion inhibitor, which protects the metal surface from corrosion and lubricity improver, which reduces the wear of the engine and fuel system. Mechanisms of functional action of MFAPs components and principal structures of their active compounds are studied, as well as methods of evaluation of detergent, corrosion inhibitor, and lubricity improver properties are described in detail.

Fishbone-like micro-textured surface for unidirectional spreading of droplets and lubricity improvement

Directional spreading of droplets on asymmetrical micro-structures surface has attract interests of researchers for its significant application potential in scientific and engineering fields. In this paper, a fishbone-like micro-textured surface (FMS) is proposed, which exhibits efficient unidirectional spreading behavior of droplets (maximum forward-backward spreading coefficient up to 3.7). The effect of geometrical characters on spreading performance are studied, thus facilitating obtainment of optimal parameters of the FMS. Such type of micro-structured surface is arranged on noncontact areas of pin-on-disk tribological system. Experimental results demonstrate the FMS has lubrication retention effect, resulting in reduction of friction and wear. The maximum reduction rate of friction coefficient is 63.3 % compared with the bare specimen.

Multifunctional Applications Enabled by Fluorination of Hexagonal Boron Nitride.

2D materials exhibit exceptional properties as compared to their macroscopic counterparts, with promising applications in nearly every area of science and technology. To unlock further functionality, the chemical functionalization of 2D structures is a powerful technique that enables tunability and new properties within these materials. Here, the successful effort to chemically functionalize hexagonal boron nitride (hBN), a chemically inert 2D ceramic with weak interlayer forces, using a gas-phase fluorination process is exploited. The fluorine functionalization guides interlayer expansion and increased polar surface charges on the hBN sheets resulting in a number of vastly improved applications. Specifically, the F-hBN exhibits enhanced dispersibility and thermal conductivity at higher temperatures by more than 75% offering exceptional performance as a thermofluid additive. Dispersion of low volumes of F-hBN in lubricating oils also offers marked improvements in lubrication and wear resistance for steel tribological contacts decreasing friction by 31% and wear by 71%. Additionally, incorporating numerous negatively charged fluorine atoms on hBN induces a permanent dipole moment, demonstrating its applicability in microelectronic device applications. The findings suggest that anchoring chemical functionalities to hBN moieties improves a variety of properties for h-BN, making it suitable for numerous other applications such as fillers or reinforcement agents and developing high-performance composite structures.

Investigation of the Tribological Properties of Hybrid Additive-Modified Water-Based Lubricating Fluid

Water-based lubricating fluids (WBLFs), known for their significant environmental benefits, are the focus of this study. The properties of WBLFs directly influence lubricated mechanisms’ longevity and operating efficiency. WBLFs are enhanced using additives, which must improve their properties and, at the same time, remain environmentally friendly. This study combines bis(2-hydroxyethyl) ammonium erucate protic ionic liquid and titanium oxide nanoparticles to formulate the hybrid additive. The lubricity was investigated using Alumina/Bearing steel and WC/Bearing steel friction pairs in a reciprocating ball-on-plate tribo-tester. The results show that protic ionic liquid can significantly improve lubricity and the corrosion-preventing ability of the base fluid. Applying a hybrid additive further improved the wear reduction ability in the WC/Bearing steel friction pair. However, the wear reduction ability was diminished when a hybrid additive was used to lubricate the Alumina/Bearing steel friction pair. The proposed lubricity improvement mechanism is based on forming an adsorption layer of ionic liquid molecules and rolling and tribo-sintering titanium oxide nanoparticles.

Structural and tribological studies on the interaction of porcine gastric mucin with non- and cationic-modified β-lactoglobulins

β-lactoglobulin (BLG) is the major whey protein with negative charges at neutral pH in aqueous media. Thus, the interaction with mucins, the major polyanionic component of mucus, is very weak due to the electrostatic repulsion between them. The present study postulates that cationization of BLG molecules may reverse the interaction characteristics between BLG and mucin from repulsive to associative. To this end, cationic-modified BLGs were prepared by grafting positively charged ethylenediamine (EDA) moieties into the negatively charged carboxyl groups on the aspartic and glutamic acid residues and compared with non-modified BLG upon mixing with porcine gastric mucin (PGM). To characterize the structural and conformational features of PGM, non/cationized BLGs, and their mixtures, various spectroscopic approaches, including zeta potential, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy were employed. Importantly, we have taken surface adsorption with optical waveguide lightmode spectroscopy (OWLS), and tribological properties with pin-on-disk tribometry at the sliding interface as the key approaches to determine the interaction nature between them as mixing PGM with polycations can lead to synergistic lubrication at the nonpolar substrate in neutral aqueous media as a result of an electrostatic association. All the spectroscopic studies and a substantial improvement in lubricity collectively supported a tenacious and associative interaction between PGM and cationized BLGs, but not between PGM and non-modified BLG. This study demonstrates a unique and successful approach to intensify the interaction between BLG and mucins, which is meaningful for a broad range of disciplines, including food science, macromolecular interactions, and biolubrication etc.

(095) Vaginal Lubrication Improves Sexual Desire among Menopausal Women

Abstract Introduction Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) can be a direct result of hormonal changes in a woman’s lifetime, including the use of birth control, postpartum, or menopausal. The FSFI (Female Sexual Function Index) measures sexual function based on six domains: desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction and pain. Studies have shown that vaginal lubrication can be affected by hormonal changes; however, it is unclear how lubrication relates to sexual desire among women with hormonal changes of varied etiology. Objective The objective of this study is to evaluate the relationship between vaginal lubrication and sexual desire among women who are on birth control, postpartum, or menopausal. Methods A post-market analysis was performed of all women who had utilized the sexual wellness application Rosy between February 2022 and November 2022. Application users had previously filled out the FSFI short form (6-item) and the desire and lubrication domain results were analyzed. We utilized multivariable linear regression models to determine significant effects between lubrication score and desire score controlling for whether the patient was on birth control, postpartum, or menopausal. Results A total of 11,407 women met the study criteria. 2,599 were menopausal, 3,394 were postpartum, and 8,013 were on birth control. The median age was 34.2 (range 17–80) years old. The mean FSFI short form scores for lubrication were as follows based on category: birth control = 3.03, postpartum = 2.0, and menopausal = 1.94. Mean FSFI short scores for desire were birth control = 2.44, postpartum = 2.23, and menopausal = 1.80. Regression modeling revealed a significant association between lubrication score and desire score (mean of 0.36 increase in desire score per point increase in lubrication score, 95% CI 0.35, 0.36, p&amp;lt;0.001). With women on birth control as a baseline, a menopausal status was associated with an increased desire (estimate 0.33, p&amp;lt;0.001). The interaction term between lubrication score and menopausal status was positive (0.06, p&amp;lt;0.001). Conclusions Iatrogenic or physiologic hormonal changes such as birth control, postpartum, or menopause can alter vaginal lubrication scores. Among these women, those with better vaginal lubrication have an associated increase in sexual desire. Improvements in lubrication can positively affect sexual desire in menopausal women. Our findings of a significant positive interaction between lubrication scores and menopausal status is interpreted as the magnified effect that increase lubrication has on sexual desire in this population. Furthermore, these findings reinforce that among this cohort, menopausal women are most effected by hormonal changes that can alter lubrication and ultimately sexual desire. While this data demonstrates interesting findings, potential confounders include users of Rosy who may have underlying sexual dysfunction, which may alter these results. Further studies are needed on this topic among the general population. Disclosure Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Rosy.

(055) Vaginal Lubrication: Equally Important for Orgasm in Premenopausal, Postmenopausal, and Post-Partum Women?

Abstract Introduction The female sexual response cycle is complex with interconnected domains. Studies have shown that vaginal lubrication is affected by age and hormonal changes; however, the relationship between lubrication and orgasm has not been well described in premenopausal women, women who are postpartum, and postmenopausal women. Objective The objective of this study is to evaluate the relationship between vaginal lubrication and orgasm among premenopausal, postpartum, and postmenopausal women Methods A post-market analysis was performed of all women who had utilized the sexual wellness application Rosy between February 2022 and November 2022. Application users complete the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) short form (6-item) upon initial use of the application. We utilized multivariable linear regression models to determine significant effects between lubrication score and orgasm scores score controlling for whether the patient was on birth control, postpartum, or menopausal Results We reviewed a large database of 30,358 women from across the United States. Among these, 2,599 women were menopausal, 2, 011 were premenopausal women, and 795 were postpartum. The mean lubrication scores on FSFI -6 were: menopausal = 1.93, premenopausal = 2.68, postpartum = 2.73. Mean scores for orgasm were 2.2, 2.62, 2.31 respectively. Premenopausal women had higher overall scores on FSFI- 6, with orgasm scores improving with age. Higher scores in lubrication domain had less impact on orgasm domain in pre-menopausal women compared to post-menopausal women (p=0.04). No correlation between improvement in lubrication and orgasm noted among post-partum women when compared to post-menopausal women (p=0.87) Conclusions Lubrication has a higher impact on orgasm among post-menopausal women compared to pre-menopausal women and not correlated with orgasmic function among women in the post-partum period. These findings enhance our knowledge and refine current management of anorgasmia. Disclosure Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Rosy.

Study on the subsurface characteristics of textured surfaces under EHL condition

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of surface texture on the subsurface characteristics of contact interfaces under elastohydrodynamic lubrication condition. As a typical contact form of gears and bearings, the optimization of friction characteristics at the elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) interface has attracted the attention of scholars. Laser surface texturing is a feasible optimization solution, but there have been concerns about whether the surface texture of high-pair parts will affect their fatigue life.Design/methodology/approachTo examine the impact of texture preparation on the subsurface characteristics of high-pair interfaces under EHL conditions, a point contact EHL model is developed that takes into account the effect of textured surface topography. The pressure and thickness of the oil film are calculated as input parameters under different loads and entrainment velocities. The finite element method is used to simulate the impact of textures with varying diameters, densities and depths on the subsurface characteristics of the elastohydrodynamic interface. According to ISO 25178, analyze the relationship between 3D topography parameters and subsurface characteristics and study the trend of friction characteristics and subsurface characteristics based on the results of the ball on disc friction tests.FindingsThe outcomes suggest that under different rotational velocity and load conditions, the textured surfaces exhibit improved friction reduction effects; however, the creation of textures can result in significant subsurface plastic deformation and local peeling. The existence of texture makes the larger stress zone in the subsurface layer closer to the surface, leading to fatigue failure near the surface. Reasonable design parameters can help enhance the attributes of the subsurface. A smaller Sa and a Str greater than 0.5 can achieve ideal subsurface properties on the textured surface.Originality/valueThis paper investigates the influence of surface texture on the friction and subsurface characteristics of EHL interfaces and analyzes the impact of surface texture on interface contact performance while achieving lubrication improvement functional characteristics. The results provide theoretical support for the optimization design and functional regulation of surface texture in EHL interfaces.Peer reviewThe peer review history for this article is https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-10-2023-0324/

Современные лазерные технологии в гинекологической практике: возможности инновационного неодимового лазера

Aim. To summarize a review of modern literature and present a clinical observation of the use of the Magic Gyno Nd:YAG laser for the treatment of vulvovaginal atrophy in postmenopausal patients. Key points. One of the most significant problems of the menopausal period is genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), the symptoms of which have a significant impact on the quality of life and sexual health of most women during menopause and occur in more than 50% of patients. The search and study of new effective and safe methods for treating the symptoms of GSM is an extremely urgent task, the importance of which, taking into account existing demographic and social trends, will only increase in the coming years. In addition to the objective risks associated with hormonal therapy, which is the "gold standard" in the treatment of GSM, it should be noted that for some patients it is contraindicated for medical reasons, and sometimes women themselves do not want to use hormone-containing drugs. Thus, there is a need to select other methods of therapy that will provide long-term symptomatic effect. Based on the available data, treatment of GSM using laser devices may be comparable in effectiveness to local hormonal therapy, and superior in safety. One of the most promising instruments of this class is the Nd:YAG laser, successfully used in cosmetology, ophthalmology, dentistry, surgery, urology, as well as in gynecology. After therapy with a neodymium laser, an improvement in lubrication and elasticity of the tissues of the vulva and vagina, normalization of the pH of the vaginal discharge was shown, as well as a significant reduction in the manifestations of sexual dysfunction and an increase in the quality of sexual life noted by patients. Conclusion. The neodymium laser method in gynecological practice is a new promising method of treatment. Although further randomized controlled trials are required, it has now been successfully used in the treatment of GSM and for patients who are contraindicated for hormonal therapy, or those who do not want to use even topical estrogens due to obsessive stereotypes and unreasonable fears. may become an alternative to local estrogen therapy. Key words: vulvovaginal atrophy, neodymium laser, Nd:YAG laser, genitourinary syndrome of menopause, hormone replacement therapy, estriol, vaginal wall prolapse.

Hybrid cooperative complexes to decrease VAS score and enhance sexual function in women with vulvar lichen sclerosus.

Lichen sclerosus is a chronic, inflammatory, progressive skin disease predominantly affecting anogenital areas. Vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) is one of the most common conditions treated in vulvar clinics; most patients report distressing symptoms of itching, burning, stinging, and pain (particularly during or after sexual intercourse). A preliminary, prospective, single-center study was performed to investigate the efficacy of hyaluronan hybrid cooperative complex (HCC) comprising high and low molecular weight hyaluronic acid to treat menopausal women with VLS. Patients (N = 30) received two HCC injections at 32 mg/ml (one month apart). At baseline and one and six months after treatment, patients completed validated psychometric questionnaires to assess their self-reported pain, itching, and dryness using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and sexual function by the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). After treatment with HCC, no side effects or complications were reported. VAS scores showed a trend towards reduced pain and itching intensity, and there was a statistically significant reduction in median VAS score for dryness at follow-up vs. baseline (p=0.038). For sexual function, there was a statistically significant improvement in lubrication (p=0.001) and orgasm (p=0.001) FSFI domains. Overall, this preliminary study demonstrated the promising efficacy of HCC in menopausal women with VLS without side effects.

Hydration–lubrication performance improvement via synergistic effects of free polymers and polymer brushes

In this study, we demonstrated hydration lubricity improvement via the synergistic effects of free polymers and brush films formed on a surface. We analyzed the hydration interfacial structure using neutron reflectometry and measured the shear viscoelasticity of the film using the fiber wobbling method. The results revealed that the volume fraction of the free polymer adsorbed on the brush film increased, leading to an improvement in the load-carrying capacity. Additionally, a water-rich layer formed on the surface owing to the brush film’s exclusion-volume effect, and this layer reduced the shear resistance and increased the lubricity. These insights into the composite films of polymer brushes and adsorbed free polymers offer new perspectives and design principles for the development of hydration lubrication.

Tribology and rheology of potato protein and pectin mixtures and Maillard conjugates

AbstractThis study aimed to compare the tribological and rheological properties of plant proteins versus their mixtures or conjugates with polysaccharides. We hypothesize that combining potato proteins (Po) with pectin (Pe) at various concentrations (0.5–5.0 wt%, ratios 1:1 and 1:2 w/w) will improve the lubrication performance of plant proteins by virtue of viscosity modification and boundary lubrication. Po showed shear thinning behavior with limited concentration‐dependence in boundary and mixed lubricity. Pe on the other hand showed pronounced concentration‐dependent flow and lubrication behavior delivering favorable boundary and viscous lubricity. Pe dominated the lubrication and high shear rate flow behavior in Po + Pe mixtures, governed mainly by the concentration of Pe and the hydrodynamic volume rather than the total concentration of the biopolymers. Maillard reaction (≤33% degree of conjugation) led to more negatively‐charged protein‐polysaccharide conjugates versus the sole biopolymers (p &lt; 0.05). The conjugation decreased the second plateau shear viscosity of the Po + Pe mixtures and led to improvement in boundary and mixed lubricity when a reduced entrainment speed parameter was used. Findings from this study may inspire future studies combining plant proteins with polysaccharides to enhance their lubrication behavior and eventually improve the textural properties of plant‐based foods.

Safety and Efficacy of Drug Holidays for Women with Sexual Dysfunction Induced by Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) Other than Fluoxetine: An Open-Label Randomized Clinical Trial.

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the cornerstone of psychopharmacology. However, they cause side effects such as sexual dysfunction, leading to the discontinuation of treatment. We aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of drug holidays for women experiencing sexual dysfunction Induced by SSRIs other than fluoxetine. This study was an 8-week randomized, open-label, controlled trial including married women aged between 18 and 50 years who had experienced sexual dysfunction while undergoing treatment with SSRIs. The intervention group implemented drug holidays by not taking medications on Thursdays and Fridays, while the control group continued regular medication use. The female sexual function index (FSFI) and the 28-question general health questionnaire (GHQ-28) were administered to assess sexual function and mental health, respectively. A total of 50 participants completed the trial. The drug holidays' group showed significant improvements in arousal (p < 0.001), desire (p = 0.001), orgasm (p < 0.001), satisfaction (p < 0.001), lubrication (p = 0.021), and overall sexual health (p < 0.001). The between-group difference of pain was significant (p < 0.001), despite no significant within-group change. Mental health improved in both groups, despite no significant between-group difference. No major adverse effects were reported. Drug holidays did not introduce immediate safety concerns or significant adverse effects during the timeframe of eight weeks, suggesting that it may be a safe and effective strategy for managing SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction in women, alongside improving mental health. Further research is needed to reach a definitive conclusion.

Improving tribological properties of water/glycerol lubricating fluid by the synergy of nanoparticles and protic ionic liquid

Improvement in wettability and lubricity of water/glycerol base fluid by the synergy of nanoparticles (NPs) and protic ionic liquid (PIL) was experimentally investigated. The hybrid additives were made by combining graphene nanoplatelets or silicon oxide nanoparticles with tert-octylamine oleate PIL. A lubricating sample preparation procedure included ultrasonication, centrifugation and magnetic stirring. Kinematic viscosity, pH, and wettability were evaluated. The tribo-tests were performed on a ball-on-plate reciprocating tribometer. It was observed that NPs alone could not improve the lubricity of the base fluid. However, the lubricity was substantially enhanced by using the PIL additive. Furthermore, the combination of NPs and PIL provided an even better tribological response. The hybrid additives improved wettability and facilitated composite tribo-film formation.