Activation Period Research Articles

Respiratory alkalosis as an adverse effect of safinamide?

Respiratory alkalosis is associated with central nervous system (CNS) diseases, drugs, lung diseases and others. Safinamide is a recent anti-parkinsonian drug with anti-dyskinetic properties and a good adjunct to L-dopa therapy during the activation period, with no significant adverse effects described. The authors present a case of a 71-year-old woman, with Parkinson’s disease treated with levodopa/benserazide, safinamide, amitriptyline, sertraline and diazepam. She made multiple visits to the emergency department due to progressive dyspnoea and asthenia, with primary respiratory alkalosis, which was thought to be caused by anxiety-induced hyperventilation and treated accordingly. After a comprehensive study, it was determined that the most probable cause of the respiratory alkalosis was pharmacological. There was a clinical and temporal agreement with the introduction of safinamide.

Choice of Alternative Method of Surgical Intervention in Abdominal Rectus Diastasis with Concomitant Midline Hernias

INTRODUCTION: To date, no consensus has been achieved on the most appropriate surgical method for the treatment of abdominal rectus diastasis concomitant with midline hernias. AIM: Study of the results of three original methods of surgical treatment of patients with abdominal rectus diastasis concomitant with midline hernias. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The results of treatment of 74 patients have been analyzed. The patients were divided into three comparable groups: in the first group (n = 25), repair with local tissues with formation of aponeurotic duplication was performed, in the second group (n = 24), autodermal de-epithelialized graft was used, in the third group (n = 25) — mesh sub-lay implants. The following parameters were evaluated: duration of narcotic analgesia in the postoperative period, period of activation of patients, periods of inpatient treatment and results on Clavien-Dindo and EuraHSQoL scales. The follow-up period was from 1 to 10 years after surgery. RESULTS: The period of postoperative use of narcotic analgesics was 1.08 ± 0.38 days in the first group, 0.98 ± 0.33 days in the second group, 2.13 ± 0.93 days in the third group. The period of activation was 3.00 ± 1.53 days in the first group, 0.89 ± 0.36 days in the second group, 1.5 ± 0.48 days in the third group; the duration of inpatient treatment was 9.24 ± 1.88 bed-days, 6.34 ± 3.04 bed-days and 8.36 ± 2.14 bed-days, respectively. Postoperative complications in the first group were CDI class 6, CDII class 3, in the second group CDI class 1, in the third group CDI class 6, CDII class 3. At 12 months after the operation, painful sensations and functional discomfort on EuraHSQoL scale were absent in the second group, in the first and third groups, limitations in physical activity were noted (р ≤ 0.05; differences between the first and third groups were statistically insignificant, p ≥ 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences in the cosmetic discomfort between the groups (p ≥ 0.05). CONCLUSION: A safer and more effective method of repair of the anterior abdominal wall in patients with concomitant abdominal rectus diastasis and midline hernias is plastic surgery with application of de-epithelialized autodermal graft.

Ergonomic differences in mesh placement and mesh fixation between laparoscopic and robotic inguinal hernia repair with mesh.

General differences in surgeon ergonomics between laparoscopic and robotic-assisted inguinal hernia repairs (LIHR vs. RIHR) have been previously studied. However, specific differences in the ergonomics of mesh placement (MP) and mesh fixation (MF) are undetermined. Our aim was to determine if there are differences in the ergonomics of MP and MF between the surgical approaches. We hypothesize that we will identify differences, with the potential for worse ergonomics during LIHR. Data was collected from fifteen LIHR and fifteen RIHR. All cases were elective, primary inguinal hernias completed by a fellowship-trained minimally invasive surgeon. Surface electromyography (EMG) of four upper extremity muscle groups, including the upper trapezius (UT), anterior deltoid (AD), flexor carpi radialis (FCR) and extensor digitorum (ED), was recorded bilaterally during MP and MF. Muscle activation as a percent of maximum voluntary contraction (%MVCRMS) and muscle fatigue denoted as the median frequency of muscle activations (Fmed) were calculated for each muscle. EMG analysis showed increased %MVCRMS in LIHR compared to RIHR cases, with significant findings in the left UT, right UT, ED, and FCR for MP and MF and the left FCR during MP. Muscle fatigue was decreased in LIHR compared to RIHR cases, with significant differences in left FCR and right ED and AD. Despite greater muscle activations during LIHR, RIHR had greater muscle fatigue. It is possible that short periods of high muscle activation are ergonomically protective during minimally invasive inguinal hernia repair. Identifying these differences may aid in development of procedure-specific interventions to improve ergonomics.

МЕХАНОАКТИВАЦІЯ ПОРТЛАНДЦЕМЕНТУ ТА ЇЇ ВПЛИВ НА ВЛАСТИВОСТІ БУДІВЕЛЬНИХ КОМПОЗИЦІЙ РІЗНОГО ПРИЗНАЧЕННЯ

The issues considered in the article are related to determining the effect of mechanical activation on the properties of cement-water compositions and building mortars based on them. The activation of cement in combination with the use of ground quartz sand and the superplasticizer Relaxol-Super PC is relevant for this study. The amount of quartz sand was adjusted in the range from 0 to 40% of the cement mass, and the superplasticizer (0,15 – 1,5%) of the binder mass. The use of this technology ensures acceleration of cement hydration processes, maintaining the required level of composition mobility with a lower consumption of mixing water, and intensification of exothermic heating. The presented experimental data made it possible to evaluate the effect of the binder activation period and the superplasticizer consumption on the flow of the aqueous cement-containing composition. It was found that the main contribution to the decrease in the water-solid ratio (provided that equiviscous compositions are obtained) is achieved by activating the cement-containing composition for 180 sec. with the addition of 1,5% superplasticizing additive. The water-solid ratio decreases by more than 50%. A further increase in the amount of plasticizer has low efficiency and has little effect on decreasing the water-solid ratio. Activation in combination with reduced water hardening of the cement-water composition contributes to both an increase in the heating intensity and an increase in its maximum temperature. After activation, the maximum temperature increased by 5-11% compared to the non-activated cement-water composition. The peak of the exothermic reaction for the mechanically activated cement-water composition occurs 3 hours earlier compared to the non-activated mixture. The increase in the strength of the mortar on mechanically activated cement with the addition of a superplasticizing additive reached 71% compared to the control.

INFLUENCE OF MECHANICAL ACTIVATION ON THE PROPERTIES OF CEMENT-WATER COMPOSITIONS WITH THE ADDITION OF GROUND LIMESTONE

The paper considers the issue related to determining the effect of mechanical activation of a mineral binder on the properties of both hardening and hardened cement-water compositions. The mechanical activation of cement in combination with the consumption of ground limestone, the amount of which was adjusted in the range from 0 to 40 % of the cement mass, is relevant for this study. The effect of mechanical chemical activation of Portland cement only and Portland cement with the addition of 20 and 40 % ground limestone on changing the water-solid ratio of equiviscous compositions was studied. It was shown that mechanical and chemical activation of a cement-water composition has a positive effect on reducing the W/S ratio of equiviscous compositions from 0.42 (no activation) to 0.38 (activation period 180 sec). The obtained experimental results indicate the presence of an induction period of heating of the cement paste both on Portland cement not subject to mechanical activation (this period is approximately 6 hours from the moment of interaction of cement with water) and on Portland cement subject to mechanical activation. In this case, the induction period was no more than 2 hours. Joint mechanical activation of an aqueous mixture of Portland cement and ground limestone ensures acceleration of the hydration processes of the binder, which is confirmed by the intensification of the exothermic heating of the filled cement-mixing compositions. The positive role of mechanical activation is also reflected in the acceleration of the thickening rate of the compositions, which was recorded by the kinetics of the decrease in the diameter of their spread over time. The positive role of mechanical activation in reducing the effective viscosity of cement-containing compositions is confirmed, which ensures a decrease in their water-solid ratio by an average of ‒ 8 ... 10 %. A positive effect of mechanochemical activation of Portland cement with the addition of ground limestone on the strength of cement stone at the age of 3 days has been revealed. Experimental studies indicate that only due to mechanical activation the strength of samples made of cement stone with the addition of ground limestone can be increased by almost 25...30 %.

The Predictive Value of Preoperative Measurements of Cochlear Nerve Diameters From MRT and Postoperative Speech Perception in Adult Patients With Cochlear Implant.

The current study aims to investigate whether objective measurements of the cochlear nerve (CN), derived from preoperative MRI images, correlate with postoperative speech perception in CI patients. Retrospective cohort study. University Medical Center, tertiary academic referral center. Patients undergoing a cochlear implant surgery including MED-EL (Synchrony 2, FLEX electrode series; MED-EL, Innsbruck, Austria) Cochlear (slim straight electrodes; Cochlear Ltd., Sydney, Australia), Advanced Bionics (HiRes Ultra 3D CI, HiFocus SlimJ electrodes; Sonova, Zürich, Switzerland), and Oticon (Neuro Zti EVO; Oticon A/S, Smørum, Denmark) between 2020 and 2023. Preoperative MRI images were utilized to measure the volume of the modiolus (VM), the cross-sectional areas of the CN (ACN), and for normalization, the area of the facial nerve (AFN) and the area of the internal ear canal (AIEC). Postoperative speech perceptions were assessed through word recognition scores (WRS) at several stages following the first fitting (FF) of the CI processor: immediately after FF, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months after FF. Sixty-eight patients were enrolled in this study. A statistically significant positive correlation between the ratio between ACN and AFN (ACN/AFN) and WRSFF was identified (R = 0.36, p < 0.003). However, this correlation disappeared in subsequent follow-up tests. Moreover, upon grouping patients based on their degree of asymmetrical hearing loss, it was observed that the correlation was primarily driven by patients with moderate to severe asymmetrical hearing loss (AHLm) on the contralateral side (R = 0.62, p = 0.0003). The present results suggest that assessing the size of the CN through MRI has limited predictive utility for postoperative speech perceptions during CI consultations. This limitation seems to be particularly relevant for AHLm patients and is confined to the initial activation period.

Enhancement of immunity and disease resistance in Litopenaeus vannamei through injection of tyramine formulated with polyethylene glycol

This study investigates the prolonged effect of immune disease resistance in Litopenaeus vannamei through the administration of tyramine (TA) formulated with polyethylene glycol (PEG). Facing the challenges of intensive farming, environmental stress, and global climate changes, innovative approaches to improve shrimp health are essential. The research focuses on the role of biogenic amines in stress response and immune regulation, demonstrating that TA, especially when combined with PEG, significantly prolongs immunity and resistance against Vibrio alginolyticus. The experimental design included administering TA, PEG, and TA-PEG, followed by evaluations of immunity, lactate and glucose levels, and immune-related gene expressions. Results showed notable prolonged effects in total hemocyte count, phenoloxidase activity, and phagocytic activity in the TA-PEG group, indicating enhanced immune activation period. Additionally, the expression of prophenoloxidase system-related genes was significantly upregulated in the TA-PEG group. Furthermore, the TA-PEG group exhibited a significantly higher survival rate in a susceptibility test against V. alginolyticus. The results of this study confirm that the combined use of PEG can effectively extend the immunostimulatory duration of TA.

Studying the Effect of the Period of Mechanical Activation on the Formation of Ni3Al-Based High-Legered Alloys Obtained via Spark Plasma Sintering

Studying the Effect of the Period of Mechanical Activation on the Formation of Ni3Al-Based High-Legered Alloys Obtained via Spark Plasma Sintering

Comparative analysis of the effects of the computer-based and paper-based trail making tests on oxygenation in the prefrontal cortex

The trail making test (TMT) is a commonly used tool for evaluating executive functions, and the activation of cerebral oxygenation in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) during the test can reflect the participation of executive function. This study aimed to compare the differences in cerebral oxygenation in the PFC between the computer- and paper-based versions of the TMT and provide a theoretical basis for the optimization and clinical application of the computer-based version. A total of 32 healthy adult participants completed the computer- and paper-based TMT Types A and B. Cerebral oxygenation changes in the PFC were monitored during the experiment using near-infrared spectroscopy. Moreover, average changes in oxyhemoglobin (Δoxy-Hb) levels at the baseline and during activation periods in different types of testing were compared and analyzed. The number of correct connections in the computer-based version Type B was less than that in the paper-based version Type B (p < .001). The task time of the computer-based version was longer than that of the paper-based version (p < .001). The B/A ratio of the number of correct connections in the computer-based version was lower than that in the paper-based version (p < .001). The Δoxy-Hb in the PFC of the paper-based version was higher than that of the computer-based version (p < .001). Significant differences in oxygenation in the PFC were observed between the paper- and computer-based versions of TMT. After further improvement and correction in the subsequent development of the computer-based TMT, and taking into account the psychological feelings and preferences of the participants when performing different versions of the TMTs, the computer-based TMT is expected to play a good auxiliary role in clinical evaluation.

Different fluorescent labels report distinct components of spHCN channel voltage sensor movement.

We used voltage clamp fluorometry to probe the movement of the S4 helix in the voltage-sensing domain of the sea urchin HCN channel (spHCN) expressed in Xenopus oocytes. We obtained markedly different fluorescence responses with either ALEXA-488 or MTS-TAMRA covalently linked to N-terminal Cys332 of the S4 helix. With hyperpolarizing steps, ALEXA-488 fluorescence increased rapidly, consistent with it reporting the initial inward movement of S4, as previously described. In contrast, MTS-TAMRA fluorescence increased more slowly and its early phase correlated with that of channel opening. Additionally, a slow fluorescence component that tracked the development of the mode shift, or channel hysteresis, could be resolved with both labels. We quantitated this component as an increased deactivation tail current delay with concomitantly longer activation periods and found it to depend strongly on the presence of K+ ions in the pore. Using collisional quenching experiments and structural predictions, we established that ALEXA-488 was more exposed to solvent than MTS-TAMRA. We propose that components of S4 movement during channel activation can be kinetically resolved using different fluorescent probes to reveal distinct biophysical properties. Our findings underscore the need to apply caution when interpreting voltage clamp fluorometry data and demonstrate the potential utility of different labels to interrogate distinct biophysical properties of voltage-gated membrane proteins.

Efficient Preparation and Optimization of Activated Carbon Monoliths from Resorcinol-Formaldehyde Resins for CO2 Capture

Activated carbon monoliths with developed porosity, high surface area and excellent adsorption properties were successfully prepared from resorcinol-formaldehyde resins using a physical activation method. The primary objective of this study was to examine the impact of key parameters, namely hexamethylenetetramine content (0.08–0.2 g), pyrolysis heating rate (5–20 °C/min) and activation time (1–7 h), on the final characteristics of the activated carbon in order to identify the optimal operating conditions to achieve the desired properties. All the cured resin samples were pyrolyzed at 900 °C under a nitrogen atmosphere, while the activation process took place in the presence of CO2. The evaluation of the activated carbon materials was based on the CO2 adsorption capacity and BET surface area, micropore area and total pore volume, which were employed as the criteria for selecting the optimal activated carbon. The synthesized porous carbon monoliths exhibited good properties: high BET surface area (900 m2/g), high CO2 adsorption capacity (5.33 mmol/g at 0 °C and 1 bar, 3.8 mmol/g at 25 °C and 1 bar) and good CO2 selectivity for CO2/N2 and CO2/CH4 mixtures. These results were obtained with a pyrolysis heating rate of 5 °C/min and a 3 h activation period.

BPA Exposure Affects Mouse Gastruloids Axial Elongation by Perturbing the Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway.

Mammalian embryos are very vulnerable to environmental toxicants (ETs) exposure. Bisphenol A (BPA), one of the most diffused ETs, exerts endocrine-disrupting effects through estro-gen-mimicking and hormone-like properties, with detrimental health effects, including on reproduction. However, its impact during the peri-implantation stages is still unclear. This study, using gastruloids as a 3D stem cell-based in vitro model of embryonic development, showed that BPA exposure arrests their axial elongation when present during the Wnt/β-catenin pathway activation period by β-catenin protein reduction. Gastruloid reshaping might have been impeded by the downregulation of Snail, Slug and Twist, known to suppress E-cadherin expression and to activate the N-cadherin gene, and by the low expression of the N-cadherin protein. Also, the lack of gastruloids elongation might be related to altered exit of BPA-exposed cells from the pluripotency condition and their following differentiation. In conclusion, here we show that the inhibition of gastruloids' axial elongation by BPA might be the result of the concomitant Wnt/β-catenin perturbation, reduced N-cadherin expression and Oct4, T/Bra and Cdx2 altered patter expression, which all together concur in the impaired development of mouse gastruloids.

Turning up the HEAT Surgical simulation of the Moses 2.0 laser in an anatomic model.

With advancements in laser technology, urologists have been able to treat urinary calculi more efficiently by increasing the energy delivered to the stone. With increases in power used, there is an increase in temperatures generated during laser lithotripsy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the thermal dose and temperatures generated with four laser settings at a standardized power in a high-fidelity, anatomic model. Using high-fidelity, 3D-printed hydrogel models of a pelvicalyceal collecting system with a synthetic BegoStone implanted in the renal pelvis, surgical simulation of ureteroscopic laser lithotripsy was performed with the Moses 2.0 holmium laser. At a standard power (40 W) and irrigation pressure (100 cm H2O), we evaluated operator duty cycle (ODC) variations with different time-on intervals at four different laser settings. Temperature was measured at two separate locations: at the stone and ureteropelvic junction. Greater cumulative thermal doses and maximal temperatures were achieved with greater ODCs and longer laser activation periods. There were statistically significant differences between the thermal doses and temperature profiles of the laser settings evaluated. Temperatures were greater closer to the tip of the laser fiber. Laser energy and frequency play an important role in the thermal loads delivered during laser lithotripsy. Urologists must perform laser lithotripsy cautiously when aggressively treating large renal pelvis stones, as dangerous temperatures can be reached. To reduce the risk of causing thermal tissue injury, urologists should consider reducing their ODC and laser-on time.

Sustained Microbial Burden Reduction and Impact on Covid19 Cases in Long-Term Care Facility through Advanced Photocatalysis

Background: COVID19 remains deadly to Americans over 75 years old despite vaccination and additional infection control practices in long term care (LTC). The evolution of more transmissible COVID19 variants and continued viral aerosols result in persistent COVID19 outbreaks in LTC during high community levels of COVID19. Despite the end of pandemic Federal support and the continued vulnerability of elderly to the virus, LTC facilities remain dedicated to protecting this vulnerable population. The study hypothesized that utilization of continuous, facility-wide, advanced photocatalysis (AP) disinfection technology will reduce microbial burden in air and on surfaces, demonstrating a decrease in infectious aerosols and subsequent COVID19 cases among residents and workers. Methods: A prospective facility controlled experimental study was performed in skilled nursing facilities in Pennsylvania and New Jersey from January 2023 to April 2023 to surveil aerobic bacterial and fungal colony forming units (CFUs) in air, and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and fungal CFUs on surfaces and floors prior to and post AP technology installation. Impacts on resident COVID19 cases were recorded and compared to the same extended observation period (February-July 2023) one year prior (2022) with similar year over year community COVID19 rates. In addition, two matched control centers in regional proximity to the intervention facility were also prospectively studied. A one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to analyze mean microbial burdens after each post activation period (significance p &lt;.05). Results: From baseline to final testing, the intervention facility surface testing showed a 93% reduction in mean aerobic bacterial CFUs (p=.002); 96% reduction in mean fungal CFUs (p&lt;.001); 97% reduction in mean MRSA CFUs (p&lt;.001). Floor testing also showed reductions in mean CFUs for aerobic bacteria by 92% (p&lt;.001); 96% for fungi (p&lt;.001); 99% for MRSA (p&lt;.001). Air testing showed reductions in mean CFUs for aerobic bacteria by 87% (p=.005); 36% for fungal (p=.005). The intervention facility observed a 94% reduction in resident COVID19 cases compared to the matched control facilities that increased 46% during the 2023 time period (Figure 1). Conclusion: This study is on the pioneering edge of demonstrating that continuous and persistent disinfection technology reduces contaminant reservoirs on surfaces, floors, and air and clearly decreases infectious aerosols and improves resident outcomes by dramatically reducing COVID19 transmission in LTC facilities.

Insights into Activation Pathways of Recovered Carbon Black (rCB) from End-of-Life Tires (ELTs) by Potassium-Containing Agents.

This study explores the conversion of recovered carbon black (rCB) from end-of-life tires (ELTs) into activated carbons (ACs) using potassium-based activators, targeting enhanced textural properties development. The research focuses on the interaction between potassium and rCB, with the aim of understanding the underlying mechanisms of rCB activation. The study investigates several parameters of KOH activation, including the KOH/rCB mass ratio (1:3 to 1:6), activation temperatures (700-900 °C), activation time (1-4 h), and heating rate (5-13 °C/min). It also assesses the effects of different potassium salts (KCl, K2CO3, CH3COOK, and K2C2O4) on porosity and surface characteristics of the rCB/ACs. Furthermore, the role of the physical state of KOH as an activator (solid and gas-solid) was examined, alongside a comparative analysis with NaOH to evaluate the distinct effects of potassium and sodium ions. Optimal conditions were identified at an 800 °C activation temperature, a 7 °C/min heating rate, a 1:5 KOH/rCB ratio, and a 4 h activation period. X-ray diffraction analysis showed the formation of several K-phases, such as K2CO3, K2CO3·1.5H2O, K4(CO3)2·(H2O)3, KHCO3, and K2O. The effectiveness of the potassium salts was ranked as follows: KOH > K2C2O4 > CH3COOK > K2CO3 > KCl, with KOH emerging as the most effective. Notably, the gas-solid reaction of KOH/rCB was indicated as a contributor to the activation process. Additionally, it was concluded that the role of KOH in enhancing the textural properties of rCB was primarily due to the interaction of K+ ions with the graphite-like structure of rCB, compared to the effects observed with NaOH. This research introduces novel insights into the specific roles of different potassium salts and KOH activation conditions in optimizing the textural characteristics of rCB/ACs.

Unravelling a complex catalyst deactivation in which selectivity affects conversion: oxygen-assisted styrene synthesis at industrially-relevant conditions

The oxidative dehydrogenation of ethylbenzene (EB) into styrene (ST) has been proposed as an alternative to the conventional energy-consuming synthesis of styrene. Various types of catalysts have been reported as promising for the reaction under industrially-relevant conditions. However, they show a complex deactivation behaviour. The EB conversion and the ST selectivity decay, with an increased COx selectivity. This phenomenon was investigated by means of experimental data and reaction model analysis, using two reference inorganic catalysts. The active catalyst is the deposited coke (ODH-coke) and not directly the inorganic material. The coke is formed in the initial reaction phase and promoted by the Lewis acid sites of the inorganic material. The reaction shows an activation period in which the ODH-coke is deposited and the EB conversion reaches a maximum where O2 is fully converted. From that point onwards, the reaction model is applicable and the experimental data fit very well with low standard deviations. The model explains that the EB conversion′s decay with time on stream is associated to changes in the selectivity. Hence, EB conversion is not an independent parameter. This simplifies the understanding of this complex deactivation; the deactivating parameter is the selectivity. At this moment, we cannot discriminate between increased COx and decreased ST, or both effects, because both routes are competitive. This case represents a new type of catalyst deactivation behaviour, in which selectivity affects conversion.

Alternated activation with relaxation of periosteum stimulates bone modeling and remodeling

Gradual elevation of the periosteum from the original bone surface, based on the principle of distraction osteogenesis, induces endogenous hard and soft tissue formation. This study aimed to assess the impact of alternating protocols of activation with relaxation (periosteal pumping) on bone modeling and remodeling. One hundred and sixty-two adult male Wistar rats were used in this study. Four test groups with different pumping protocols were created based on the relaxation applied. Two control groups underwent an activation period without relaxation or only a single activation. One group was sham-operated. Periosteal pumping without period of activation induced gene expression in bone and bone remodeling, and following activation period enhanced bone modeling. Four test groups and control group with activation period equaled the values of bone modeling at the end-consolidation period, showing significant downregulation of Sost in the bone and periosteum compared to that in the sham group (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). When all test groups were pooled together, plate elevation from the bony surface increased bone remodeling on day 45 of the observation period (p = 0.003). Furthermore, bone modeling was significantly affected by plate elevation on days 17 and 45 (p = 0.047 and p = 0.005, respectively) and by pumping protocol on day 31 (p = 0.042). Periosteal pumping was beneficial for increasing bone repair when the periosteum remained in contact with the underlaying bony surface during the manipulation period. Following periosteal elevation, periosteal pumping accelerated bone formation from the bony surface by the modeling process.

Thermochemically driven crystal phase transfer via mechanical activation-assisted chlorination roasting toward the selective extraction of lithium from spodumene

With the rapid advancement and widespread application of lithium-ion batteries, the demand for lithium experiencing a precipitous surge. Hence, there is an increased emphasis on lithium extraction from spodumene deposits. However, the sustainable expansion of the lithium industry encounters challenges. Conventional processes suffer from drawbacks such as elevated transformation temperatures, high acid consumption, and challenges in leachate purification. In response to these challenges, this work proposes a selective and efficient lithium extraction process from α-spodumene through the combined approach of mechanical activation-assisted chlorination roasting and water leaching. Utilizing density functional theory (DFT) calculations to tailor chloride salts for the thermal treatment of spodumene, the combination of thermal behavior characterization and thermochemical calculations indicates the favorable propensity of CaCl2 and its hydrates for preferential reactions. Through the amalgamation of mechanical activation and chlorination roasting, the outcomes reveal that mechanical activation could reduce the phase transition temperature. Following a 3-hour activation period, a complete chlorination reaction is achievable at 900℃, yielding a lithium extraction efficiency of 91.34%. This endeavor holds the potential to furnish novel insights into the mechanism of selectively extracting chlorination roasting, thereby offering promising avenues for developing environmentally sound and selectively efficient technologies for lithium extraction from spodumene.

An upconverted afterglow color conversion strategy for in-situ activated persistent luminescent imaging of medical implants

Upconverted afterglow imaging presents a promising avenue for long-term auto-fluorescence-free imaging applications without the necessity of expensive time-resolved equipment. In this research, inspired by LED design, we devised a straightforward ternary upconverted afterglow conversion (UAC) strategy that amalgamates upconversion NaYbF4: Tm0.005 (UP), afterglow ZnS:Cu,Co (AP), and color conversion CaAlSiN3:Eu phosphors (CP). This fusion resulted in a UAC composite that displays a deep-red to near-infrared (NIR) afterglow with a peak at 663 nm, following a brief activation period by 980 nm light. Importantly, an enhancement of 116 times was realized by using the UAC strategy when comparing with a typical single phase afterglow phosphor, Zn3Ga2SnO8:Cr,Yb,Er. The NIR-rechargeable afterglow sustained for a minimum of 100 min after a mere 3 s of NIR wireless charging process and is chemically stable. This makes it highly suitable for long-term luminescence imaging applications. To demonstrate its potential, we employed our ternary UAC phosphor to image medical plastic prostheses through pig skin in vitro and simulated a plastic surgery on a mouse model in vivo. Such luminescent information could prove invaluable for planning future surgical interventions, such as prosthesis replacement, removal, or necessary debris cleaning.

Evaluation of inflammatory biomarkers and the ratio of hemoglobin-red cell distribution width in patients with rheumatoid arthritis treated with tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitors.

The aim of this study was to examine pre-treatment and post-treatment hemogram-derived inflammatory biomarkers in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who received anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α treatment. The data of 1182 patients with RA were screened. Among them, 207 patients who met the eligibility criteria were included in the retrospective study. Demographic parameters, disease activity, and blood cell-derived indexes were evaluated. The neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), lymphocyte-monocyte ratio (LMR), and hemoglobin-red cell distribution width (Hb/RDW) rates were evaluated before treatment and at the third month of treatment in patients with RA who received anti-TNF-α treatment. According to the EULAR response criteria, 12.6% of the 207 patients responded to anti-TNF-α treatment as none, 21.3% as good, and 66.2% as moderate, respectively. Post-treatment NLR and PLR values were significantly lower than pre-treatment values (p < 0.001), whereas post-treatment LMR and Hb/RDW values were significantly higher than pre-treatment values (respectively, p = 0.001 and p = 0.012). The difference between pre-treatment and post-treatment values of LMR and Hb/RDW was significantly higher when compared to the moderate + good response groups than the none-response group (p = 0.002 and p = 0.014, respectively). However, in the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, these parameters were not found to be significant in predicting treatment response. Significant changes were detected in hemogram-derived inflammatory markers of the groups responding to anti-TNF-α treatment. They can be used as a guide during treatment follow-up. Yet, they do not predict treatment response. Key Points • RA may manifest with periods of remission and activation, and regular follow-up is essential. • There is a demand for readily available, reproducible, and cost-effective parameters to assess treatment response. • Hemogram-derived inflammatory markers differ in relation to anti-TNF-α treatment response in RA. • None of those markers demonstrate an acceptable predictive performance in distinguishing patients based on their response to TNF-α inhibitors.