Size Analysis Research Articles

DEVELOPMENT, OPTIMIZATION AND ASSESSMENT OF NAPROXEN MICROSPONGES BY BOX-BEHNKEN DESIGN AS A TARGETTED AND CONTROLLED RELEASE DRUG DELIVERY

Objective: Due to weak physical, chemical stability and poor bioavailability of Naproxen conventional dosage form; the purpose of this work is to improve formulation stability, additionally to accomplish highest possible concentration of the drug in the blood by preparing Naproxen loaded microsponges. Methods: Naproxen Microsponge (NM) was created utilising the quasi emulsion technique. In this process Ethyl Cellulose (EC) acts as a polymer, Poly Vinyl Alcohol (PVA) acts as the emulsifier, and Dichloromethane acts as the solvent. To investigate how changes in different formulation and processing parameters affect important product qualities, a Box Behnken Design (BBD) was used. Particle Size, Percentage Yield, and Entrapment Efficiency (%EE) were selected as response factors, whereas independent variables including EC quantity (X1), PVA concentration (X2), and Stirring Speed (X3) were selected as independent variables. Results: The microsponges underwent thorough analysis using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), and Particle Size analysis. The evaluation included studying the morphology, drug loading, and in vitro drug release. The compatibility studies showed no chemical interactions between the drug and the polymers used. It was observed that the ratio of drug to polymer had a significant impact on drug content, EE and particle size. The SEM results revealed that the microsponges were spherical with a porous surface and had a mean particle size of 15.15 µm. The in vitro drug release studies demonstrated that the optimized Naproxen Microsponge Formulation (NMF2) achieved over 80% extended drug release by the end of 8 h, following the Corsmeyer Peppas Model. Conclusion: The Naproxen loaded microspheres possessed a sustained release with improved bioavailability and better stability.

PHARMACEUTICAL NANOCRYSTALS: AN EXTENSIVE OVERVIEW

In pharmaceutical development, pharmaceutical nanocrystals sized between 10 and 1000 nanometers have been found to hold promise in improving drug solubility. Since they comprise only the active pharmaceutical ingredient, nanocrystals have dramatically increased surface area-to-volume ratios, ensuring improved in vitro dissolution and solubility profiles. In view of their strengths and limitations, different production strategies have been reviewed: methods of size reduction such as wet milling and high-pressure homogenization; the bottom-up approaches of controlled precipitation and supercritical fluid technology; and efficient ways to stabilize nanocrystal formulations aided by excipients like surfactants and polymers. Techniques used in this characterization of nanocrystals include size analysis, surface-charge measurement, and assessment of crystalline structure. The routes of administration, such as oral, injectable, inhaled, and topical application, are reviewed alongside commercially successful products and clinical trials. This work reviews dynamic regulatory scenarios and current challenges of large-scale production, long-term stability, and nanotoxicity evaluation. In addition, it addresses the emerging trends in nanocrystal technology in the field of personalized medicine, targeted drug delivery, and theranostic approaches associated with how nanocrystals can help optimize the outcome of a patient in drug delivery systems.

Improvement of sludge dewatering performance by persulfate advanced oxidation combined with LDH: Synergistic effect of free radical and non-free radical and reuse of deep-dewatered sludge cake

The high-water content of sludge in wastewater plant will influence the transportation and utilization. In this study, a new method for improving sludge dewatering by pyrite (FeS2) activated persulfate (PMS) combined with layered double hydroxide (LDH) was proposed. After conditioning, the water content (Wc) and specific resistance (SRF) of sludge decreased from 97.12 % and 1.83 × 1013 m/kg to 71.39 % and 1.84 × 1012 m/kg, severally. SEM and particle size analysis showed the system could destroy sludge cells effectively.The mechanism analysis of protein and polysaccharide content, 3D-EEM, FTIR, XPS results showed that FeS2/PMS-LDH combined system was beneficial to break down the sludge extracellular polymer (EPS), transform and accumulate the organic matter into the EPS outer layer, release the bound water. Both free radical and non-free radical play a role in oxidation, and they cooperate to break EPS. The effective phosphate adsorption performance of the biochar adsorbent prepared from dehydrated sludge cake was also investigated. The adsorption behavior of phosphate on biochar from dewatered sludge cake belongs to uniform chemical monolayer adsorption. When T = 298k, PH = 5, the maximum adsorption capacity is 20.255 mg/g. The introduction of LDH is helpful to enhance the sludge dewatering and the adsorption of phosphate. To sum up, the combined conditioning method considers the effectiveness of sludge dewatering and the feasibility of sludge cake disposal and utilization.

HyProCure for Flatfoot Deformity: A Clinical Characteristics Analysis in China.

Flatfoot is a common foot disorder involving progressive foot deformity of the three-dimensional structures of the forefoot, midfoot, and hindfoot. Currently, Chinese surgeons and patients favor subtalar arthroereisis (SA) due to its minimally invasive and low-damage characteristics. HyProCure device is widely used. However, there is limited analysis of large sample sizes. This study utilized statistical evaluation with a large sample size to analyze clinical characteristics trends of SA for flatfoot, including baseline indicators, selection of HyProCure size and surgical strategy, complications, and implant removal. This study will enhance the understanding of SA in China. A retrospective analysis of 732 patients (1008 ft) who underwent SA from June 2015 to June 2023, with 509 pediatric and adolescent patients (772 ft) and 223 adult patients (236 ft). Based on the patient's age, patients aged ≤ 18 were included in the children and adolescent group, while adult acquired flatfoot deformity (AAFD) patients aged > 18 were included in the adult group. General data was collected, including patient sex, age, side, body mass index (BMI), surgery date, HyproCure size, and surgical data, and trends were analyzed. Postoperative complications and HyProCure removal were collected as outcome measures during follow-up. The age of patients treated with SA was gradually getting younger, with male patients predominating, mainly concentrated in the 11-14 age group. HyProCure 7 has the highest usage rate. In the children and adolescent group, 288 ft (37.31%) only underwent SA. In the adult group, 18 ft (7.63%) only underwent SA. Complications include sinus tarsi pain, peroneal spasms, achilles tendon tension, and muscle strength decline. The complication rate in the children and adolescent group was 5.05%, while in the adult group it was 28.81%. Overall, it was 10.62%. The removal rate of HyProCure in the children and adolescent group is 1.04%, in the adult group is 15.25%, and overall is 4.37%. The trend in flatfoot treated with SA was towards children and adolescent male patients, and sinus tarsi pain was the most common complication after SA. The complication rate and removal rate in the children and adolescent group were lower than those in the adult group. HyProCure can be removed without additional adverse effects.

Ultrasonic-assisted pre-concentration of iron values in bauxite residue suitable for reduction-roasting purpose

The study aims to explore the feasibility of using low-frequency ultrasonic washing to pre-concentrate iron values in waste bauxite residue (BR) containing 32.60 wt. % iron. This novel approach involves ultrasonication followed by water-washing to pre-concentrate iron before reduction-roasting of BR. Conventional reduction-roasting of BR is more expensive compared to pre-concentrated BR, making this method potentially cost-effective. The process consists of a two-stage ultrasonic treatment procedure. In the first stage, ultrasonication at 30 °C, with 40% solid content (w/v) for 30 min, improves the iron grade to 41.2 wt. % with 82% recovery. However, a second stage of ultrasonication is necessary to further upgrade the iron. The study optimized the ultrasonication time, temperature, solid content (%, w/v), and water washing parameters. Under optimal conditions (ambient temperature, 30% solid content (w/v), 45 min of ultrasonication), the iron grade reached 49.1 wt. % (Fe2O3 70.2) with 66% recovery. Water-washing parameters were found to be less effective compared to ultrasonication parameters. The settling time after water washing significantly affects the grade and recovery of the product. The ultrasonic effect on the BR particle surface leads to the breakage of surface-alkali coating and the disintegration of locked particles to generate free iron and other particles. Particle size analysis supports the disintegration of BR particles into smaller pieces. The physicochemical characterizations of different products were carried out using ICP-OES, XRD, FTIR, and FESEM studies to support the experimental findings. The possible iron separation mechanism is discussed utilizing available literature, as well as experimental and characterization evidence.

Organosilane Modification of Lignin and Lignosulfonate: Structure and Compatibility in PVDF Membrane

The high difference in surface tension between the filler and the polymer often constrains membrane compatibility. To reduce the surface tension, organosilane such as GPTMS is usually used to improve miscibility. In this study, GPTMS was introduced to produce lignin-GPTMS (LG) and lignosulfonate-GPTMS (LsG). The modification was done by reacting lignin and lignosulfonate with GPTMS using ethanol as the media. The product was characterized using Fourier Transform InfraRed (FTIR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Particle Size Analyzer (PSA), Scanning Electron Microscope-Energy Dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX) and microscope. The success of functionalization was shown in FTIR spectra with the vibration of Si-O at 1034 cm-1 and 528 cm-1. The XRD analysis presents that the filler material has an amorph and crystalline structure. The functionalization using a 2:1 ratio increases zeta potential absolute and particle size due to the silane being a bridge and making a larger macromolecule. For a ratio of 1:1, a higher organosilane compound results in breaking siloxane linkages and making smaller molecules. Mixed LG and LsG into PVDF membrane conducted to analyze filler compatibility. The sulfonation and functionalization of GPTMS increase the compatibility of lignin in PVDF membrane with the best homogeneity achieved by a membrane with the addition of LsG 1:1.

Alterations in subgingival microbiome and advanced glycation end-products levels in periodontitis with and without type 1 diabetes mellitus: a cross-sectional study.

Existing studies predominantly focused on the relationship between periodontitis and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), with limited data on the association between periodontitis and type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). This study aimed to examine the impact of T1DM and periodontitis on the subgingival microbiome and levels of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs). Samples were collected from four groups: T1DM, periodontitis (P), T1DM with periodontitis (DP), and periodontally and systemically healthy controls (Control). Subgingival microbiome composition and AGE levels were assessed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), respectively. Correlations between clinical indexes, microbiome composition, and AGEs were analyzed using Spearman correlation coefficient. Alpha and beta diversity analyses revealed significant differences in bacterial diversity between the DP group and other groups. Linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe) analysis identified specific bacteria influencing each group: Acinetobacter, Leptotrichia, Raoultibacter, and Veillonella in the Control group; Tannerella, Porphyromonas, Filifactor, and Treponema in the P group; and Lactobacillales in T1DM individuals. Prevotella and Selenomonas were notably influential in the DP group. PICRUSt2 analysis showed pathways alterations were concentrated in cell motility, translation, cell growth and death and metabolism in the DP and P groups. Spearman correlation analysis indicated a positive correlation between AGEs and periodontitis or diabetes-related parameters and AGEs were positively correlated with Haemophilus and Arachnia. The findings suggested that the composition and function of the subgingival microbiome in the P group with or without T1DM were significantly different. Additionally, AGEs were involved in the development of periodontitis even in absence of hyperglycemia.

Recovery and Size-Tuning of Amorphous Silica from Geothermal Scales in Batangas, Philippines

Scale deposits in geothermal power plants are well-known potential sources of minerals. Extensive research in mineral recovery is crucial due to the considerable variability in scale composition and geochemistry based on location. Geothermal scales from Batangas, Philippines, were used to synthesize size-modified amorphous silica (SiO2) via sol-gel method. Initial analyses employing x-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF), total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (EC), and pH measurements confirmed that the scale is rich in silica and salts at neutral pH. Then, the effect of varying scale concentration, precipitation pH, and aging time on the particle size distribution of recovered amorphous silica were investigated. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) for particle size analysis (PSA) revealed that the sample with 2.5% (w/v) scale precursor in NaOH and precipitated until pH 10 had the lowest average cumulant diameter (1.66 μm). Moreover, the synergy of precipitation pH and aging time was found to significantly affect the polydispersity index and cumulative diameter of precipitated SiO2 based on 23 factorial ANOVA at 0.05 significance level. X-ray diffractometry (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed that the precipitates were amorphous SiO2 with spherical morphology. This study proves the viability of utilizing geothermal scales from Batangas, Philippines for the synthesis of amorphous SiO2 with controlled particle size, which is a potential filler for composite materials.

Preparation and Performance Evaluation of Small-Molecule Ammonium as a Shale Hydration Inhibitor

In this paper, small-molecule quaternary ammonium salts were synthesized by N-alkylation to inhibit hydration swelling and hydration dispersion. The prepared small-molecule quaternary ammonium salt was characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), particle size analysis and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and its performance as an inhibitor in clay was evaluated by an anti-swelling test and a linear swelling test. The results show that small-molecule quaternary ammonium salt (TEE-2) synthesized by triethanolamine and epichlorohydrin in ethanol with a molar ratio of 1:1.5 can successfully inhibit the hydration swelling and dispersion of clay. The anti-swelling rate of TEE-2 was 84.94%, the linear swelling rate was 36.42%, and the linear swelling rate of 0.5% TEE-2 was only 29.34%. The hydration swelling of clay in 0.5% TEE-2 solution was significantly inhibited. The hydration inhibition mechanism of the small-molecule quaternary ammonium salt inhibitor 0.5% TEE-2 was analyzed by FTIR, SEM and TGA. It was considered that 0.5% TEE-2 has strong hydration inhibition, which was realized by infiltration and adsorption on the clay surface. Small-molecule quaternary ammonium salts were beneficial for maintaining wellbore stability and reducing the risk of wellbore instability.

Synthesis and Evaluation of a ZnO-Chitosan Adduct for Safe and Sustainable Enhanced Ultra-Violet (UV) Sunscreens Protection.

Chitosan (Ch), a natural polysaccharide, is known for its biocompatibility, biodegradability, and various beneficial properties, including antioxidant and antibacterial activities. The objective of this study is to investigate the functionalization of zinc oxide (ZnO) with chitosan to develop a novel ZnO@Ch adduct for use in cosmetic formulations, specifically as a sun protection agent. The functionalization was achieved through ionotropic gelation, which enhanced the stability and reduced the photocatalytic activity of ZnO, thereby improving its safety profile for skin applications. FTIR spectroscopy confirmed the successful functionalization, while TGA and DSC characterized the thermal properties and stability. The Zeta potential and particle size analyses demonstrated improved stability of ZnO@Ch across various pH levels compared to uncoated ZnO. The structure of the obtained adduct was also confirmed by SEM analysis. The ZnO@Ch adduct exhibited enhanced stability at neutral and slightly alkaline pH values, reduced photocatalytic activity compared to pure ZnO, and had lower cytotoxicity in 3T3 cells compared to pure ZnO, particularly at higher concentrations. The ZnO@Ch adduct provided a higher Sun Protection Factor (SPF) and UVA Protection Factor (UVA-PF) than pure ZnO, indicating enhanced UV protection. The adduct's ability to provide higher SPF at lower ZnO concentrations offers economic and environmental benefits, aligning with sustainable product design principles. Future studies will focus on optimizing the formulation and testing the efficacy and safety at higher concentrations to fully realize its potential as a natural, eco-friendly sunscreen ingredient.

Preparation of transferrin-modified IR820-loaded liposomes and its effect on photodynamic therapy of breast cancer

ObjectiveTo prepare and characterize transferrin (Tf)-modified liposomes (Lipo) encapsulating the photosensitizing agent neoindocyanine green (IR820), and to investigate their effects on breast cancer 4T1 cells as well as in a breast cancer mouse model.MethodsPhotosensitive liposomes, IR820@Lipo and Tf-IR820@Lipo, were synthesized using thin film dispersion, with encapsulation efficiency assessed via UV detection. The physicochemical properties were analyzed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and particle size analysis. Uptake by breast cancer 4T1 cells was evaluated through confocal laser scanning microscopy and flow cytometry, while cell proliferation inhibition was measured using the CCK8 assay. Differences in intracellular fluorescence intensity were utilized to assess drug aggregation in vivo through small animal imaging techniques. The anticancer efficacy and potential side effects of the formulations were examined through pharmacodynamic studies conducted in vivo.ResultsThe mean particle sizes of IR820@Lipo and Tf-IR820@Lipo were found to be 84.30 ± 15.66 nm and 116.20 ± 14.68 nm respectively, with zeta potentials of −8.21 ± 2.06 mV for IR820@Lipo and −5.23 ± 1.19 mV for Tf-IR820@Lipo; TEM revealed that the liposomes exhibited a spheroid morphology with uniform distribution across samples; encapsulation efficiencies reached 86.38 ± 0.99% for IR820@Lipo and an impressive 93.81 ± 1.06% for Tf-IR820@Lipo; notably, Tf-IR820@Lipo significantly inhibited proliferation while promoting apoptosis of the 4T1 cells upon laser irradiation; reactive oxygen species (ROS) detection indicated enhanced fluorescence intensity within the treated cells under light exposure when utilizing both formulations; in vivo experiments demonstrated tumor accumulation of both IR820@Lipo and Tf-IR820@Lipo, indicating effective tumor targeting within a breast cancer mouse model; pharmacodynamic assessments revealed that Tf-IR820@Lipo exhibited superior inhibitory effects against breast cancer without causing liver or kidney dysfunctions in mice nor presenting significant toxic side effects overall.ConclusionGiven its high targeting capability, potent efficacy, and low toxicity profile, Tf-IR820@Lipo holds promise as a novel therapeutic agent for breast cancer treatment when combined with photodynamic therapy (PDT), potentially offering new avenues for patient management.

Effects of light compression on chronic venous disease, edema and comfort in women during pregnancy and postpartum period: a prospective randomized study.

Lower limb edema associated with venous disorders is an increasingly common problem in pregnant women. The study aimed to assess the use of compression class 1 (ccl1=18-21 mmHg) in lower limb edema and CVD prevention in pregnant and postpartum women. 51 pregnant women (second trimester) were randomly recruited into either a study group CG with compression ccl1 or a control group NCG, both with physical activity (PA) recommendation. The assessment concerned venous system condition, limb size, and compression comfort. Edema was diagnosed as ≥10% measurement increase. Venous reflux (8/22 CG, 1/16 NCG) and an onset of CVD (6/22 CG, 1/16 NCG) were diagnosed in the first measurement. After postpartum, a significant reduction of the great saphenous vein (GSV) diameter in the proximal part of the left lower limb in CG (P=0.014) and expansion of the small saphenous vein (SSV) in the proximal part of the left lower limb in NCG (P=0.028) were observed. An analysis of the limb sizes in the second measurement revealed a significant increase of all circumferences and volumes in the NCG, and of lower leg volumes in the CG. Edema was diagnosed in five women in the NCG in the second measurement. Consequently, compression was recommended for the new group (NCG+C), and a significant edema reduction (P=0.026) occurred in the third measurement. Compression ccl1 reduces the risk of edema, venous insufficiency, and improves women's quality of life during pregnancy and postpartum.

Platelet ultrastructural changes stored at room temperature versus cold storage observed by electron microscopy and structured illumination microscopy

Our study seeks to provide a theoretical foundation for the clinical use of Cold-stored platelets (CSPs) by interpreting ultrastructural images and quantitatively analyzing structural changes. CSPs, room temperature-stored platelets (RTPs), and delayed cold stored platelets(Delayed-CSPs) were continuously observed using scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy at 8 time points. Super-resolution fluorescence microscopy was employed to observe changes in platelet microtubules and mitochondrial structure and function, while platelet counts, metabolism, and relevant functional indicators were measured concurrently. Quantitative statistical analysis of platelet size, morphology, canalicular systems, and five organelles was performed under electron microscopy. CSPs stored for 1 day, platelet shape changed from circular or elliptical to spherical, with size decreasing from 2.8 × 2.2µm to 2.0 × 2.0µm. CSPs occurred wrinkling and reorganization of platelet microtubule proteins, with organelles aggregating towards the central region. CSPs stored for 14 days and Delayed-CSPs for 10 days exhibited numerous structurally intact and active cells. The structure-intact active cells in both group were 92% . RTPs stored for 5 and 7 days showed minimal changes in size, a normal microtubule skeleton, and were primarily in a resting state. However, RTPs stored for 10 and 14 days displayed swelling, irregular disintegration of the microtubule skeleton, and the presence of membranous structures and vacuolated cells,the structure-intact active cells was only 45% and 7%, respectively. Our findings confirmed that the maximum storage time of platelets was 5-7 days for RTPs, within 10 days for Delayed-CSPs, and 14 days for CSPs.

Analyzing the impact of age on waste properties at an open dumpsite in Khulna

The rapid growth of the population has led to a significant increase in the amount of municipal solid waste (MSW), posing a burden and concern for our environment. Landfill mining as well as waste to energy could be a solution to this issue, but they require waste composition, particle size, and physiochemical and ultimate analysis are prerequisite requirements. Particle size was assessed through sieve analysis, categorizing MSW into ten different types followed by physiochemical and ultimate analyses. This study aimed to examine how the properties of MSW change with age. Findings showed that fine particles increased with age while larger particles decreased. With aging, certain physical components decreased, while others either increased or stayed constant. Organic content showed a significant decrease of 70.548% for fresh MSW and 0.35% for fifteen-year-old waste whereas plastic content remained almost constant after an increase from fresh MSW. Moisture content and volatile content of MSW reduced with age while fixed carbon and ash content increased with age. Ultimate analysis shows a drop of carbon, hydrogen, and nitrogen while oxygen shows a rise. Calorific value was found a decrease in trend with age indicating that the energy content of MSW reduced with age. A drastic reduction of unit weight was found in this study, dropping from 9.31 KN/m3 to 4.668 KN/m3. This study highlights the overall composition of MSW, the fluctuation in physiochemical analysis with age, and the sieve analysis and particle size distribution. It also displays the unit weight and the age-wise variation of the ultimate analysis. The findings of this study will aid landfill mining and waste to energy by providing comprehensive properties of MSW.

Meta-analysis on QEEG Changes to Antidepressant Treatment Among Patients with Depression

Introduction: Diagnostic and treatment accuracy of depression can lead to a better and possibly earlier response and remission in patients. The literature, though scanty, seems to suggest that quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG) can predict the outcome of antidepressant effects. Methodology: Articles published between January 1990 and July 2019, including those dealing with QEEG recordings before and after the initiation of antidepressant medication, were included. The pooled effect size and subgroup analysis of waveforms were calculated to predict response to antidepressants. Result: In all, 572 results were retrieved from the searches, of which 20 studies were included. Pooled data using a random-effects model (REM) calculated an effect size of 0.80 (95% CI [0.64–0.97]). Heterogeneity of the sample was low with Tau² = 0.02; df = 18 ( P = .30); I² = 12%. Moreover, subgroup analysis showed that theta band frequencies were better at predicting response than alpha band frequencies (the standard mean difference [SMD] for theta was 0.91 compared to 0.68 for alpha waves). Conclusions: QEEG is a valuable predictor of the antidepressant response. Among the EEG frequencies, the theta band showed the most significant change with treatment.

Chitosan nanoparticles of imatinib mesylate coated with TPGS for the treatment of colon cancer: In-vivo & in-vitro studies

The study aimed to develop and evaluate chitosan-based nanoparticles coated with TPGS for the targeted delivery of imatinib mesylate to colon cancer cells. Particle size and zeta potential analysis were within the acceptable range for targeting colon cancer. CS-IMT-TPGS-NPs had a significant positive zeta potential of 30.4 mV, suggesting improved cellular intake. FE-SEM and TEM demonstrated that the nanoparticles appeared spherical, smooth, and did not aggregate, with a visible TPGS coating. XRD confirmed that crystalline imatinib transitioned to an amorphous state during nano formulation. In-vitro tests on HCT-116 cells demonstrated that CS-IMT-TPGS-NPs outperformed free IMT regarding cytotoxicity, apoptosis induction, cellular uptake, and cell migration inhibition. Additionally, the nanoparticles were examined in vitro using mitochondrial membrane potential, DNA fragmentation, GAPDH relative gene expression, ROS estimation, and cell cycle analysis. The effect of therapy on expected colon-associated bacterial strains was also investigated. The biocompatibility of nanoparticles was assessed by hemolysis and platelet aggregation experiments. The anti-inflammatory impact was determined using the HET-CAM test. Non-Fickian diffusion at pH 5.5 resulted in sustained in-vitro drug release, with no initial burst. In-vivo investigations using albino Wistar rats suggest pharmacokinetic properties for produced nanoparticles, whereas histopathological examinations assess acute toxicity.

Feasibility and optimal sizing analysis of hybrid PV/Wind powered seawater desalination system: A case study of four ports, Egypt

Feasibility and optimal sizing analysis of hybrid PV/Wind powered seawater desalination system: A case study of four ports, Egypt

Automated Fiber Quantification Analysis Identifies Tract-specific Microstructural Alterations in Brain in Intermittent exotropia

BackgroundGrowing evidence of neuroimaging has indicated brain microstructural abnormalities in comitant strabismus. Nonetheless, few studies have investigated neuropathological alterations in patients with intermittent exotropia (IXT). This study aimed at examining the characteristics of brain microstructure along major fiber tracts in IXT patients using an automated fiber quantification analysis. MethodsA total of 25 patients with IXT as well as 25 healthy participants matched for age and gender finished the diffusion tensor imaging scanning and the ophthalmic examination. Automated fiber quantification analysis of 20 major fiber tracts was carried out for IXT patients and healthy subjects, respectively. Diffusion metrics of 100 equidistant nodes resampled along each tract were measured for every subject and compared between two groups. Effect size analysis was performed to identify the most affected fiber tracts in IXT. ResultsWidely declined mean diffusivity was noted in IXT along major tracts containing bilateral thalamic radiations, bilateral corticospinal fasciculi, bilateral cingulum cingulate, left inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus, right arcuate fasciculus and superior longitudinal fasciculus. Local reduction in fractional anisotropy was observed in IXT along left cingulum hippocampus, right inferior longitudinal fasciculus and right uncinate fasciculus, in contrast to the regionally increased fractional anisotropy along bilateral thalamic radiation, left corticospinal tract and left arcuate fasciculus. Among the tracts with significantly changed diffusion metrics in IXT, right inferior longitudinal fasciculus was the most affected one in fractional anisotropy while left thalamic radiation was the most influenced one in mean diffusivity. ConclusionsAbnormalities in microstructural properties along visual-related fiber tracts are likely to contribute to difficulties in visual information processing in IXT patients, which could serve as the neural basis of underlying pathological mechanism of IXT.

Investigating the non-covalent interactions between rutin and superoxide dismutase: Focus on thermal stability, structure, and in vitro digestion

Rutin is prone to degradation during processing, highlighting the need for a suitable protein system for its delivery. This study evaluated the effects of pH and concentration ratios on the interaction between rutin and superoxide dismutase (SOD), aiming to develop a suitable non-covalent delivery system. The highest thermal stability was observed at pH 4 with a rutin-to-SOD concentration ratio of 5:1, where the melting temperature (Tm) reached 67.8 °C, and the half-life was 176 min. Infrared spectroscopy and particle size analysis revealed that rutin has minimal impact on the secondary structure of SOD; however, high concentrations of rutin influence the quaternary structure of SOD, leading to aggregation. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations further confirmed that the interaction between rutin and SOD occurs through hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions, with pH altering their binding sites. At pH 5 and pH 6, the digestive stability of the SOD-rutin complex was the highest. This study provides a theoretical basis for the preparation of highly stable SOD-rutin complexes and identifies a new protein system for the stabilization of rutin.

Physical-chemical performance of coal gasification slag with calcination activation utilized as supplementary cementitious material

The utilization of coal gasification slag to prepare supplementary cementitious materials has garnered considerable interest due to environmental friendliness. In this study, a calcination activation was carried out to enhance the pozzolanic activity of coal gasification slag, and serial sintering temperatures were conducted to activate coal gasification slag in this study. The coal gasification slags were characterized by particle size analyzer, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Furthermore, the pozzolanic activity of coal gasification slag was identified through dilution test and application in blended paste. Results showed that the calcination pretreatment effectively affected the particle size distribution and mineral composition. The setting time and hydration rate were prolonged by incorporating coal gasification slag. It was crucial that the coal gasification slag calcined under 400℃ performed the highest reactivity and its blend presented a 4.75% higher compressive strength than neat cement at 28 d curing. AFt and AFm were mainly generated by pozzolanic reaction, and a denser microstructure that porosity decreased by 26.76% was gained. The achievement of this study proved the feasibility of this treated coal gasification slag in building materials.