Significant Parameter Variations Research Articles

Injection rate, scanning position, and values of parameters on pulmonary computed tomography perfusion in normal Beagles.

This study evaluated the effects of scanning position and contrast medium injection rate on pulmonary CT perfusion (CTP) images in healthy dogs. 7 healthy Beagles. Experiments involved 4 conditions: dorsal and sternal recumbency at 2.5 mL/s (first) and sternal recumbency with additional rates of 1.5 and 3.5 mL/s (second). Various parameters, including the initial time of venous enhancement (Tv), peak time of arterial enhancement (PTa), and peak enhancement values of the artery, were measured. The PTa to Tv interval was calculated. Perfusion mapping parameters (pulmonary blood flow, pulmonary blood volume, mean transit time, time to maximum, and time to peak) were determined in different lung regions (left and right dorsal, middle, and ventral). There are significant variations in most perfusion mapping parameters based on the pulmonary parenchymal location. Dorsal recumbency had a lower peak value of arterial enhancement than sternal recumbency. Pulmonary blood flow in the dorsal region and mean transit time and time to maximum in all regions showed no significant differences based on position. Pulmonary blood volume and time to peak varied with scanning position. The PTa to Tv interval did not differ based on the injection rate, but the injection time at 1.5 mL/s was longer than at other rates. All perfusion mapping parameters of the ventral region increased with higher injection rates. The recommended CTP imaging approach in dogs is a low injection rate of 1.5 mL/s in the sternal recumbency. This study provides reference ranges for perfusion parameters based on the pulmonary parenchymal location, contributing to the acquisition and application of pulmonary CTP images for differential diagnosis in small-breed dogs.

Sensitivity analysis of electrodes spacing media for evaluating alkaline electrolyzer performance through CFD modeling

Alkaline Water Electrolyzer (AWE) technology shows promising potential for shifting towards green hydrogen production. With the growing global interest in green hydrogen, understanding the dynamics of AWE systems becomes crucial to improving their performance. Therefore, this paper aims to provide a novel sensitivity analysis aspect to investigate the correlation within parameter variables associated with AWE's electrode separation media. These parameters include electrode-diaphragm gap, temperature, diaphragm thickness, and porosity, aiming to evaluate their impact on AWE current density. The methodology involves the development of a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model, conducting a parametric study, performing Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), and sensitivity testing within specified parameter ranges. The findings show that diaphragm porosity has a considerable effect, especially between 15 % and 60 % porosity, where the trend levels off at higher values. The electrode-diaphragm gap trend reveals a sensitive, nonlinear increase in cell current density as the gap decreases from its average, with a 75 % decrease yielding over 100 % higher current density, while adjustments beyond 10 mm have minimal impact on current density despite significant variations in other parameters. A 50 % temperature rise increases current density by 40 %, while a 50 % diaphragm width reduction modestly boosts current density by around 10 %. Understanding these sensitivities is vital for optimizing AWE's performance.

Mitigating effect of pomegranate peel extract against the furan induced testicular injury by apoptosis, steroidogenic enzymes and oxidative stress

Furan is generated in a wide array of heat-treated foods through thermal degradation, leading to severe impairments in the male reproductive system. The main objective of this study was to investigate the potential of pomegranate peel extract (PGPE) in mitigating testicular dysfunctions induced by furan. Male rats were categorized into four groups: control/untreated, PGPE, furan, and PGPE + furan group. The study results revealed that furan-treated rats exhibited significantly elevated aminotransferase and phosphatase activity, and also generated increased oxidative stress, and reduced antioxidative stress protein activity. Additionally, protein content levels (ALT, AST, ALP, and ACP) and activities of steroidogenic Leydig cell hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD and 17β-HSD) enzymes were significantly decreased. Significant variations in testicular parameters, apoptotic genes (Bcl-2, P53, and Caspase3), inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL1β, IL10), male sex hormones follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone, and sperm quality were also observed. Furthermore, testicular histological abnormalities were confirmed by biochemical and molecular modifications. Notably, PGPE pre-treated furan-intoxicated animals exhibited significant improvements in most of the assessed parameters compared to furan-treated groups. In conclusion, PGPE presents essential preventive measures and a novel pharmacological potential therapy against furan-induced testicular injury.

GROWTH AND YIELD RESPONSES OF RED AMARANTH TO LOCALLY SOURCED LIQUID MANURE

The experiment was conducted at Horticultural farm, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka, Bangladesh during the period of September to November 2023. The experiment was laid out with single factor experiment using a completely randomized design with three replications to study the Growth and Yield responses of Red Amaranth (Amaranthus cruentus L) to liquid manure. The treatments under this study were; T1: Control (Only Water), T2: Vermi Tea; T3: SAU- MLM, T4: SAU-NLM, T5: SAU-PLM. Significant variation of growth and yield parameters were found among the treatments. Among the treatments. The tallest plant (44.3 cm), maximum root length was (13.3cm), maximum leaf area (38.2 sq. cm), maximum leaf number (14.0), maximum fresh weight per plant (22.1g), highest weight of plants per 506.25 sq. cm (274.9 g) and highest yield per ha (54.3 ton) was found in T5 while shortest plant (25.1 cm, minimum root length (4.8cm), minimum leaf area (16.4 sq. cm), minimum leaf number (8.6), minimum weight of plants/506.25 sq.cm. (77.5 g) and the lowest yield per ha (15.6 t) was found in T1 at final harvest (30 days after showing). Considering the overall analysis, it becomes evident that T5 consistently exhibits superior outcomes when compared to the other treatments. The superior performance of T5 suggests that it could be the optimal choice for maximizing agricultural productivity while maintaining a focus on human well-being and environmental sustainability. This treatment option not only results in higher yields, indicating potential economic benefits, but it also contributes to the overall safety and health considerations for individuals involved in the agricultural processes.

Prevalence, genetic diversity, and antimicrobial susceptibility of Vibrio spp. infected gilthead sea breams from coastal farms at Damietta, Egypt

BackgroundVibriosis is one of the most serious bacterial diseases and causes high morbidity and mortality among cultured sea breams. This study was undertaken to track the surveillance of Vibrio infection and its correlation to environmental factors. A total of 115 gilthead sea breams were collected seasonally from a private earthen pond fish farm in the Shatta area of Damietta, Egypt from September 2022 to July 2023. Physicochemical parameters of water were analyzed, and heavy metal levels were measured. The fish samples were subjected to clinical, bacteriological, Enterobacterial Repetitive Intergenic Consensus (ERIC) fingerprinting, and hematoxylin and Eosin histopathological staining.ResultsThe results revealed significant variations in the water quality parameters over different seasons, in addition to an increase in heavy metals. Naturally infected fish showed external signs and postmortem lesions that were relevant to bacterial infection. Two dominant Vibrio subspecies of bacteria were identified: V. alginolyticus (205 isolates) and V. fluvialis (87 isolates). PCR confirmed the presence of V. alginolyticus using the species-specific primer collagenase at 737 bp. The highest prevalence of V. alginolyticus was detected during the summer season (57.72%), and the lowest prevalence was observed in autumn (39.75%). The correlation analysis revealed a positive relationship between V. alginolyticus and water temperature (r = 0.69). On the other hand, V. fluvialis showed a high prevalence during the autumn season (25.30%) and the lowest prevalence during the summer season (10.56%), where it was negatively correlated with water temperatures (r =—0.03). ERIC fingerprinting showed genetic variation within the Vibrio isolates. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed sensitivity to ciprofloxacin and doxycycline, and resistance to amoxicillin and erythromycin. The multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) index values for V. alginolyticus and V. fluvialis ranged from 0.3 to 0.7, with a multi-drug resistance pattern to at least three antibiotics. Histopathological alterations in the affected tissues revealed marked hemorrhage, vascular congestion, and hemosiderosis infiltration.ConclusionThis study provides insights into the potential propagation of waterborne diseases and antibiotic resistance in the environment. Ensuring that the environment does not serve as a reservoir for virulent and contagious Vibrio species is a critical concern for regional aquaculture industries. Therefore, we recommend implementing environmental context-specific monitoring and surveillance tools for microbial resistance.

Enhancing soil properties through sustainable agronomic practices reduced the occurrence of kiwifruit vine decline syndrome

AbstractKiwifruit vine decline syndrome (KVDS) is an emerging challenge related to various factors, including water stagnation, soil compaction, root hypoxia, imbalanced soil redox potential, soil nutrient imbalance and fungal pathogens, yet its definitive causes remain unconfirmed. This study compared soils and roots of healthy plants (CTRL group) and plants affected by KVDS (KVDS group) at a kiwifruit orchard (Actinidia chinensis cv. ‘Zesy002’) in Sermoneta (Lazio region), Italy. Our findings indicate that soil redox potential, a parameter related to soil oxidation, and soil macroporosity were significantly lower in the KVDS soils. The water table was also found to be higher in the KVDS block of the orchard, demonstrating a higher soil water content. This suggests less aeration and more water content in KVDS‐affected soils compared to the control. Root analyses showed that KVDS led to browning and decomposition of rhizodermis, decay of the central stele, detachment of the cortex, reduced cell size and the presence of starch granules in the parenchyma, with significant variations in root morphometric parameters. To mitigate KVDS, sustainable agronomic practices, including precision irrigation, green manure, compost addition and water drainage root pruning, were carried out on some KVDS‐symptomatic vines (SUST group). Molecular analyses revealed the presence of 10 fungal species from treated root plants, with Paraphaeosphaeria michotii, Fusarium oxysporum and Ilyonectria vredenhoekensis being frequently isolated from symptomatic KVDS‐affected plants but less from SUST plants. Also, Beauveria bassiana and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, showed an effect against I. vredenhoekensis and P. michotii, and may be suitable candidates as biocontrol agents. The adoption of sustainable agronomic practices resulted in significantly more healthy plants (46% increase) by the end of the trial, demonstrating that a sustainable soil use and water management at kiwifruit orchards can mitigate KVDS through restoration of natural growth conditions.

Spatial and temporal distribution of physicochemical parameters of water in Gorgan Bay (the southeast of the Caspian Sea - Iran): Fundamentals for the monitoring of the Caspian Sea coastal areas

Gorgan Bay as a main part of the Miankaleh (a natural biosphere reserve registered by UNESCO) is one of the richest ecological area in the West Asia and very important internationally recognized refuge for the wildlife. To date, multi physicochemical parameters have not been examined on a large scale. To fill this knowledge gap, the present study aimed to explore the seasonal and spatial variability of water quality parameters of the bay. The results showed that except for depth and transparency, there are significant variations in most parameters across the four seasons. The patterns of these changes in the bay vary, as evidenced by a comparison of the distribution maps of the various factors throughout the year. Notably, alkalinity declined from east to west, reaching its highest levels at important entry points such as the Qarasu River, Bandar-Gaz, and the pier. TDS, on the other hand, increased westward, reaching its highest concentration in the shallow western regions. Maximum depth (310 cm) and transparency (250 cm) were observed in the central bay. While the pH was higher in deeper areas, the distribution of PO4 was more uniform. With lower levels in the east (salinity = 0.40 ‰) and higher levels in the west (salinity = 28.9 ‰), the salinity showed a coherent gradient. Agricultural land use in the basin of the bay and fluxes of nutrients and sediments of the rivers entering the bay has significant contribution to the bay pollution situation. These results will serve as a guide for improving our understanding of the Gorgan Bay ecosystem. They also have implications for informed conservation and management plans adapted to the specifics of this special region within the Caspian Sea.

Comparison of Chemically Treated, Pasteurized, and Microwave-Treated (at Different Time Durations) Chia Seeds Added To Mango-Whey Beverage, during Different Storage Periods, for Physicochemical and Sensory Parameters

Foods that are widely consumed and accepted have had a lot of ingredients added to them which may enhance consumer’s health. Whey is a byproduct in the manufacture of cheese or curd and is widely used in different beverage formulations, due to its nutritional importance. In this context, a mango-based functional whey drink, added with omega-3-rich chia seeds, was de veloped. Different treatments of beverage were as follows: untreated control beverage (T0), application of chemicals (T1), pasteurization (T2), and microwave heating (at 4 different time lengths: T3, T4, T5, and T6). Beverages were analyzed for physiochemical, microbiological, and sensorial changes, during the 90 days of storage. Chemical analysis of chia seeds before incorporation in beverages revealed a high nutritional profile of chia seeds, especially the presence of essential fatty acids. Significant variation in color parameters of the beverage was observed as a result of treatments and storage, with optimum values observed for T3. A decrease in pH and an increase in acidity during storage for all treatments were evident, with the most significant results for microwave treatment for longer time periods. The total plate count of the beverage was the highest (2.36 ± 0.1 CFU/ml) for control, followed by chemically treated (2.17 ± 0.1 CFU/ml) and lowest in microwave-treated (0.98 ± 0.1 CFU/ml) at the start of the experiment, and this total plate count was found to be increasing in all treatments during storage. Total solids were increased and soluble solids were decreased during longer microwave treatments and also during storage of all treatments. The most acceptable treatment T3 (85 ml whey, 2 g chia seed, and microwave heating for 30 sec) was further subjected to a storage study and it was observed that the sensory scores gradually decreased during the 90 days of storage. From the outcomes of the study, it was concluded that microwave treatment of the beverage for 30 sec, as compared to longer durations and chemical preservatives, was proved helpful for optimum quality retention of the formulated beverage, with minimum deteriorating effects. Thus, proper treatments of different beverage formulations, following the necessary protocols, could provide the consumers safe, healthy, and nutritious beverages.

A multiscale differential‐algebraic neural network‐based method for learning dynamical systems

AbstractThe objective of dynamical system learning tasks is to forecast the future behavior of a system by leveraging observed data. However, such systems can sometimes exhibit rigidity due to significant variations in component parameters or the presence of slow and fast variables, leading to challenges in learning. To overcome this limitation, we propose a multiscale differential‐algebraic neural network (MDANN) method that utilizes Lagrangian mechanics and incorporates multiscale information for dynamical system learning. The MDANN method consists of two main components: the Lagrangian mechanics module and the multiscale module. The Lagrangian mechanics module embeds the system in Cartesian coordinates, adopts a differential‐algebraic equation format, and uses Lagrange multipliers to impose constraints explicitly, simplifying the learning problem. The multiscale module converts high‐frequency components into low‐frequency components using radial scaling to learn subprocesses with large differences in velocity. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed MDANN method effectively improves the learning of dynamical systems under rigid conditions.

Efecto de mordientes sobre la variación de diámetro y tono de color en hilos de fibra de alpaca teñidos con flores de colli (Buddleja coriacea)

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of mordants on the variation of mean fibre diameter (MFD), spinning fineness (SF), and colour tone in alpaca fibre threads dyed with colli flowers (Buddleja coriacea). The dye was extracted using boiling water, followed by immersion of the thread in 160 ml of extract and post-mordanting with collpa, alum, and lemon salt at boiling temperature. MFD was measured using S-Fiber Med equipment. Colorimetry parameters were obtained using a spectrometer, and FT-IR spectrophotometer was used for identification of functional groups. MFD in colli-dyed and post-mordanted threads significantly increased with the addition of mordants, with the highest change observed with lemon salt (30.09 μm). The same trend was observed for SF. Dyeing with colli flower extract and subsequent mordant application produced different shades and hues of yellow colour in alpaca thread with significant variations in colorimetry parameters and FT-IR spectrum intensity. The reflectance spectrum R (%) showed a typical yellow colour curve with small differences in intensity due to the mordants used. In conclusion, MFD in colli-dyed thread increased by 0.44 µm; collpa mordanted by 2.78 µm; alum by 3.31 µm, and lemon salt by 3.51 µm compared to white thread, also producing different shades and hues of yellow colour with significant variations in colorimetry parameters and K/S. The sample dyed with colli without mordant presented the highest intensity, and lower intensity was observed in post-mordanted samples in FT-IR.

Retinal microvascular alterations in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis without cardiovascular risk factors: the potential effects of T cell co-stimulation blockade.

The evaluation of microvascular alterations might provide clinically useful information for patients with an increased cardiovascular (CV) risk, such as those with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), being the small artery remodeling the earliest form of target organ damage in primary CV diseases, such as arterial hypertension. The evaluation of retinal arterioles is a non-invasive technique aimed to identify an early microvascular damage, represented by the increase of the wall-to-lumen ratio (WLR) index. Abatacept (ABA), a T-cell co-stimulator blocker, is used to treat RA. A CV protective action was hypothesized for its peculiar mechanism of action in the modulation of T-cells, potentially involved in the pathogenesis of CV comorbidity. The study aimed to non-invasively investigate morphological characteristics of retinal arterioles in a cohort of RA patients treated with ABA. Seventeen RA patients [median (25th-75thpercentile) age = 58 (48-64) years, baseline 28-joint Disease Activity Score DAS28-C-reactive protein (DAS28-CRP) = 4.4 (3.9-4.6), body mass index (BMI) = 24.2 (23.4-26) kg/m2, rheumatoid factor positive:52.9%, anti-citrullinated peptide autoantibodies positive:76.5%] without known CV risk factors (arterial hypertension, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, previous CV events, smoking) were evaluated by the adaptive optics imaging system of retinal arterioles before and every 6 months of therapy with ABA (T0, T6 and T12). Office blood pressure evaluation, 24-h ambulatory blood pressure monitoring and tissue-doppler echocardiography were also performed. A progressive significant reduction of the WLR of retinal arterioles was observed [T0 = 0.28 (0.25-0.30), T6 = 0.27 (0.24-0.31), T12 = 0.23 (0.23-0.26); p T0 vs. T6 = 0.414; p T6 vs. T12 = 0.02; p T0 vs. T12 = 0.009], without significant variations in other parameters. The T0-T12 reduction of WLR was correlated with that of DAS28-CRP (r:0.789; p = 0.005). Moreover, a significant reduction of diastolic office blood pressure and a trend for reduction of daily pressure measured by ambulatory monitoring were observed. In a cohort of RA patients without known CV risk factors, a reduction of retinal microvascular alterations was demonstrated after treatment for 12 months with ABA, in parallel with the reduction of disease activity. These results might suggest the possibility of microvascular abnormalities regression induced by the immune system modulation.

ASSESSMENT OF PHYSICOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS OF WATER IN AN INDUSTRIAL SCALE IN POND RACEWAY SYSTEM

The In-pond raceway system is a highly sophisticated innovative aquaculture technology. Many research has been done on the physicochemical characteristics of water. The present study was conducted to measure the physicochemical parameters of water in an In-Pond Raceway System (IPRS). The study employed standard and instrumental methods to investigate a range of physicochemical parameters, including water temperature, pH, DO, TDS, conductivity, ammonia, nitrite, and phosphate. One-way Analysis of Variance was conducted to calculate the variation of physicochemical parameters among the study sites. Statistical analysis showed there was no significant variation of physicochemical parameters (p>0.05) among the experimental sites except DO and ammonia (p<0.05). The experimental study showed that, all the key physicochemical parameters water in IPRS production zone were within the optimum ranges when compared with standard water quality parameters which is the prerequisite to introduce maximum survivability of fish production in IPRS system.

Hematological Parameters as Potential Biomarkers for Allergy and Eczema

This study investigated the association between hematological parameters, allergy, and eczema in a population from Al-Najaf Al-Ashraf Governorate, Iraq. Blood samples were collected from individuals with eczema, allergies, and healthy controls. Complete blood count (CBC) and serum IgE levels were analyzed. Results demonstrated significant variations in hematological parameters across different groups. Occupation, age, and disease status influenced these parameters. For instance, farmers exhibited higher IgE levels, while government employees had elevated WBC counts. Eczema patients showed age-related differences in blood parameters, with younger individuals presenting higher IgE and WBC levels. Allergy patients also exhibited elevated WBC counts, particularly in children. These findings suggest that hematological parameters may serve as potential biomarkers for allergy and eczema. However, the complex interplay between occupation, age, and disease status highlights the need for further research to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and establish definitive diagnostic or prognostic value.

Assessment of Selected Physicochemical Parameters of Selected Rivers around Umudim Nnewi, Anambra State Nigeria and its Environs in 2024

Background: Water pollution poses a significant threat to public health globally, with negligent disposal of industrial effluents and waste contributing to water quality degradation, particularly in metropolitan regions like Umudim Nnewi, Nigeria. Aim: To evaluate the physicochemical parameters (Total Dissolved Solids, pH, Temperature, and Electrical Conductivity) of rivers surrounding the industrial estate in Umudim Nnewi. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional quantitative study employed convenience sampling, collecting water samples from five rivers. Measurements were taken using a Four Parameter water quality analyzer to determine Total Dissolved Solids, pH, Temperature, and Electrical Conductivity. Descriptive statistics summarized the data, and paired sample t-tests analyzed the results (α = 0.05). Results: Total Dissolved Solids ranged from 9.50-59.50 mg/L, pH from 4.10-5.65, Temperature from 27.45°C-28.70°C, and Electrical Conductivity from 51.67 µS/cm. Physicochemical parameters significantly deviated from World Health Organization standards (p < 0.05), with pH showing the most significant variation. Conclusion: This study highlights the significant variation in physicochemical parameters, emphasizing the need for effective wastewater management and pollution control measures to protect public health and the environment.

The Influence of Cancer Type on Stroke Incidence: A Retrospective Study.

The aim of this study is to examine the hematological and biochemical variables in patients diagnosed with cancer-related stroke who have different types of cancer and to evaluate the effects of these variables. This retrospective study was conducted at a tertiary hospital stroke center and included 153 patients diagnosed with cancer-related stroke. Comprehensive etiological investigations were performed, and patients were classified according to the Trial of Org 101072 in Acute Stroke Treatment (TOAST) classification. Laboratory parameters including d-dimer, C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and fibrinogen levels were collected from blood samples taken at the time of stroke. Statistical analysis was performed using 1-way analysis of variance to assess differences in laboratory parameters across different cancer types. The study found significant variations in hematological and biochemical parameters among different cancer types. Specifically, glomerular filtration rate, activated partial thromboplastin time, prothrombin time, and international normalized ratio levels showed significant differences across cancer types (P < 0.05), indicating that these factors may play distinct roles in the pathophysiology of cancer-related strokes. d-dimer, CRP, and sedimentation levels were significantly elevated in certain cancer types such as rectal, endometrial, and pancreatic cancers (P < .01). These findings suggest a strong association between hypercoagulability and increased risk of stroke in these patients. This retrospective study highlights the importance of considering cancer-specific factors in the management of stroke risk, particularly in cancers such as pancreatic and colon, which show a predisposition to earlier stroke occurrence. The elevated coagulation factors in these patients suggest the potential need for early preventive treatment with anticoagulants or thrombin inhibitors.

Enhanced bioavailability through quality by design optimization of ceritinib nanostructured lipid carriers: Formulation, characterization, and stability evaluation

Ceritinib is a lung cancer treatment that inhibits the Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase (ALK). ALK is a protein involved in cell signaling and growth regulation. Initially discovered in anaplastic large cell lymphoma, ALK has since been found to play critical roles in various cancers and neurodevelopmental processes. Targeted therapies that inhibit ALK have revolutionized treatment for ALK-positive cancers, improving outcomes significantly. Research continues to explore ALK’s intricate mechanisms and its potential as a therapeutic target beyond oncology, highlighting its broad biological importance. In this study, Ceritinib-drug loaded nanostructured lipid carriers were produced using a modified homogenization process by increasing number of homogenisation cycles followed by probe sonication. A central composite design was utilised to investigate the effect of liquid lipid (A), emulsifier (B), and co-surfactant (C) concentrations on particle size (Response 1) and entrapment efficiency (Response 2). The specific impacts of these parameters on particle size and entrapment efficiency were shown in response surfaces, using Derringer’s desirability technique. Formulation 8 with 0.1% Capmul, 0.15% egg lecithin, and 0.37% poloxamer 188 was subjected to further evaluation as it had minimal particle size and maximum entrapment efficiency. The SEM analysis was performed to confirm the size of the particle which was within the nano range. The in vitro studies indicated the maximum drug release (84.6%±2.3% in 12 hours) from that of the marketed formulation (54.2%±2.5% in 12 hours). After 90 days of stability testing, there was no significant variation (p &lt; 0.05) in parameters like particle size and entrapment efficiency.

Effects of cultivar, harvesting time and isolation techniques on the essential oil compositions of some lemon cultivars

&lt;p&gt;In this study, Batem Pınarı, Interdonato, Meyer, and Ak Limon lemon cultivars were studied. Lemon peel's essential oils were obtained by two different methods (hydrodistillation and cold pressing) during four different harvest periods for each cultivar. Essential oil content, density, refractive index, optical activity, and composition were evaluated. The highest essential oil amount was found in the Interdonato cultivar (2.54%) and the lowest in Ak Limon (1.37%). The highest density value was 0.8471 g/mL (Ak Limon) and the lowest was 0.8423 g/mL (Meyer). Essential oil densities obtained by cold pressing were higher than those obtained by hydrodistillation. The highest refractive index values were determined for Batem Pınarı and Meyer (1.4747), and the lowest were determined for Ak Limon (1.4740). The refractive index values obtained by cold pressing were higher than those obtained by hydrodistillation. Optical activity values were found to be highest in Ak Limon and lowest in Batem Pınarı, and higher following hydrodistillation than cold pressing. The essential oil compositions of the samples showed significant differences depending on the cultivar and isolation method. Limonene, the highest component proportionally, composed 76.0%–89.0% of samples. The highest limonene content was determined for Ak Limon (88.7%), and the lowest for Batem Pınarı (76.7%). Limonene content did not change significantly between hydrodistillation (82.2%) and cold press (82.2%) isolation methods. Findings show that there is significant variation in quality parameters of lemon peel essential oils.&lt;/p&gt;

Detailed crustal deformation in the Ailaoshan Orogenic Belt revealed by receiver functions from a dense array

The Ailaoshan Orogenic Belt (AOB), located at the southeastern boundary of the Tibetan Plateau, is an ideal place for investigating the mechanisms of lateral growth of Tibet. Using the data recorded by a dense seismic array across the Ailaoshan belt, we investigate the detailed lateral variations of crustal anisotropy on the basis of Pms phase of receiver functions. Remarkable crustal anisotropy is observed throughout this study region with a mean delay time of 0.33 ± 0.19 s, indicating the anisotropy primarily originates in the middle-lower crust. The fast directions beneath the AOB including the Ailaoshan-Red River shear zone (ARRSZ) and its western low-grade metamorphic unit generally align with the NW-SE strike of ARRSZ. The weak anisotropy in the South China Block (SCB) argues that the block is relatively stable, with limited internal deformation. Meanwhile, the anisotropy beneath the western boundary of the SCB is strong, and the N-S oriented fast direction is influenced by both the crustal stress and Xiaojiang Fault. Combining the high Vp/Vs and significant lateral variations of crustal anisotropy parameters, we suggest that the strike-slip motion along the ARRSZ induces the partial melting and pronounced anisotropy in the middle-lower crust of AOB, without the presence of crustal flow. The differences between crustal and mantle anisotropy indicate crust-mantle decoupling deformation of the AOB, supporting the block extrusion model occurring only in the crustal scale as the primary deformation pattern.

In-vitro Evaluation and Optimization of Sacubitril and Valsartan Floating Tablet using Natural Polymer

Oral systems have become gradually extensive for human consumption because of their numerous advantages, such as formulation efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and patient safety compliance. These systems offer a versatile platform for controlled drug release, allowing precise targeting of absorption site in the gastrointestinal tract. Accomplishing ideal therapeutic results for certain medications often requires precise control of drug release at specific locations within the gastrointestinal tract. In this study, our goal was to create a floating drug delivery system for two vital cardiovascular medications, sacubitril and valsartan. Our specific objectives were to extend floating time, prolong stomach residency, and reduce floating lag time. The strategy involved harnessing the synergistic potential of natural polymers in optimal proportions to enhance drug activity. Following the principles of quality by design (QbD), we systematically explored various formulation factors to optimize the drug delivery system. Analysis of tablet characteristics revealed significant variations in key parameters, such as swelling index, floating lag time (FLT), total floating time (TFT), and drug content for both sacubitril and valsartan. The enhanced formulation (F12) stood out with a remarkable swelling index of 93.4%, a floating lag time of 6.7 seconds, and an impressive total floating time of 12 hours. Furthermore, high drug content percentages were achieved, with sacubitril at 98.70% and valsartan at 94.65%. The successful development and optimization of the floating tablet formulation carry substantial clinical implications. The extended gastric retention, controlled drug release, and high drug content of the optimized formulation suggest enhanced bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy for both sacubitril and valsartan. The prolonged total floating time offers convenience to patients, potentially improving medication adherence in managing cardiovascular diseases. In conclusion, this study highlights the formulation and optimization of floating tablets as a noteworthy advancement in drug delivery technology, promising improved therapeutic outcomes and enhanced patient convenience.

An In-Depth Analysis of Physical, Chemical, and Microplastic Parameters of Landfill Fine Fraction for Biocover Construction

Landfills pose global challenges, notably in terms of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, pollution release, and extensive land occupation. The transformative practice of landfill mining has redefined these sites as valuable resource reservoirs. The fine fraction (FF), often constituting the majority of excavated waste, is currently underutilized but holds the potential for biocover construction to mitigate methane emissions. This study comprehensively analyzes the FF from the Kuršenai landfill, collecting samples from various depths, reaching up to 10.5 m. The most suitable layers for biocover construction were determined based on basic physical and chemical parameters, along with the concentration of heavy metals and microplastics. The findings unveil significant parameter variations across different depths. Moderate–high correlations (ranging from 0.5 to 0.84) between several parameters were observed. The layer at a depth of 4.5–6 m emerged as the most suitable for biocover construction. However, this layer is characterized by elevated microplastic concentrations (30,208 ± 273 particles/kg), posing a challenge for its use in biocovers as microplastics can be released into the environment during FF extraction and biocover construction. Additionally, microplastics become finer with depth, increasing the associated risks. Therefore, a balanced approach considering material properties and pollution concentrations is vital for sustainable waste management practices.