Subsequent Examination Research Articles

Demineralization effects on physicochemical and combustion characteristics of biomass: Insights into distributed kinetics, flue gas evolution, and slag formation

Biomass as the only carbon-bearing renewable energy has enormous potential to challenge the established energy structure dominated by fossil resources, and incineration technology is one of the most direct and efficient pathways for utilizing biomass resources, unfortunately enduring the inevitable sintering and slagging problems owing to the excessive alkali metals. Herein, we comparatively investigated the effects of five leaching solvents (water, acetic acid, wood vinegar, hydrochloric acid, and oxalic acid) on the physicochemical properties and ash-removal capabilities of wheat straw (WS) and rice husk (RH), with a view to achieving better performance in the subsequent combustion characteristics, kinetic examination, flue gas, and slag evolution. Results indicated with ionization ability increased (water < acetic acid < hydrochloric acid), the WS exhibited a strong demineralization performance (maximum 61.1%), further leading to a steep weight loss in its combustion characteristic curve at approximately 350 °C and a delayed peak temperature after the removal of alkali metal. Multiple distributed activation energy model and sensitivity analysis revealed that leaching pretreatment enhanced the activation energy (189–191.8 kJ mol−1) and optimized energy distribution at the preliminary stage of the combustion reaction. In addition, the absence of alkali metals suppressed the catalytic oxidation reaction in the flue gas, remarkably limiting the formation of CO2 but facilitating the release of CO and CH4. Meanwhile, a considerable optimal in biomass ash slagging, in which the initial temperature of the liquid phase slag for WS ash increased to 991 °C. Notably, HCl showed the strongest demineralization performance among the five leaching solvents during pretreatment, but the high-temperature slag content was still higher than that of acetic acid. Therefore, slagging performance is not only associated with the demineralization ability of leaching solvents, but also with ash composition.

Influence of the concentration of KOH-based aqueous electrolyte on the electrochemical behavior of NiO thin film

In this research, we explored the influence of varying concentrations of KOH electrolyte (0.5, 1, and 2 M) on the electrochemical characteristics of Nickel Oxide (NiO) thin film. The deposition of NiO material onto glass and Fluor Tin Oxide (FTO) coated glass substrates was achieved through the chemical spray pyrolysis method. Subsequent examinations encompassed structural, morphological, optical, and electrochemical assessments, employing X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy coupled with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), UV-VIS-NIR spectrophotometry, and cyclic voltammetry (CV), respectively. XRD analysis unveiled a polycrystalline cubic structure of NiO with a preference for orientation along the (111) plane. Raman spectroscopy confirmed the presence of the NiO phase, whereas SEM images depicted the emergence of interconnected nanograins with occasional minor cracks. EDS examination and elemental mapping further substantiated a homogeneous dispersion of elements. Optical analysis disclosed a band gap energy of 3.54 eV and an average transmittance of 71 % in the visible range. Electrochemical analysis indicated that the specific capacitance reached its peak at [1 M] (70 F. g−1). The [2 M] electrolyte exhibited the highest optical modulation (29 %), the most substantial charge density (Qi = 9.5 mC/cm2), and the most favorable switching kinetics. However, the coloration efficiency slightly decreased from 30.94 cm2/C in [1 M] to 30.47 cm2/C in the [2 M] solution, despite these improvements.

Sertoli-Leydig Cell Tumour in a Patient with Ambiguous Genitalia and Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia

Background: Hyperandrogenism, characterized by elevated levels of male hormones such as testosterone, presents various clinical manifestations including secondary amenorrhea, hirsutism, and clitoromegaly. While often associated with polycystic ovarian syndrome, other differentials such as Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors and Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) are critical to consider. These conditions can manifest at different life stages and are seldom seen together. Objective: This case study aims to explore the rare co-presentation of CAH and a Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor in a patient presenting with secondary amenorrhea and ambiguous genitalia, and to discuss the diagnostic challenges and management strategies involved. Methods: A 16-year-old female presented with irregular menstrual cycles and secondary amenorrhea, alongside symptoms of hyperandrogenism such as voice deepening and hirsutism. Diagnostic procedures included physical examinations, ultrasound imaging, and hormone level assessments. A detailed ultrasound revealed a large right-sided ovarian mass, and biopsies confirmed a Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor. Surgical intervention involved the excision of the mass, with subsequent histopathological examination. The patient underwent three cycles of chemotherapy and was scheduled for reconstructive surgery. Results: Ultrasound dimensions of the ovarian mass were 7.2 x 13.4 x 16 cm, with the post-surgical tumor measuring 18 x 17 cm. Laboratory findings included testosterone levels above 200 ng/ml, and elevated alpha-fetoprotein levels. The histopathological report confirmed a poorly differentiated Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor (FIGO stage 1a). Post-treatment follow-up showed a marked reduction in androgen levels and stabilization of the patient's menstrual cycle. Conclusion: The coexistence of CAH and a Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor presents unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. This case emphasizes the importance of a thorough evaluation and a multidisciplinary approach in the management of complex hyperandrogenic states to achieve optimal clinical outcomes.

CRISPR/Cas9 edited SlGT30 improved both drought resistance and fruit yield through endoreduplication.

There is often a trade-off effect between different agronomic traits due to gene pleiotropy, leading to a negative correlation between yield and resistance. Consequently, using gene-editing techniques to develop superior traits becomes challenging. Genetic resources that defy this constraint are scarce but hold great potential as targets for improvement through the utilisation of CRISPR. Transcription factors are critical in modulating numerous gene expressions across diverse biological processes. Here, we found that the trihelix transcription factor SlGT30 plays a role in drought resistance and tomato fruit development. We edited the SlGT30 gene with CRISPR/Cas9 technology and found that the knockout lines showed decreased stomata density in the leaves and large fruits. Subsequent examination revealed that cell ploidy was impacted in the leaves and fruits of SlGT30 knockout lines. SlGT30 knockout affected cell size through the endoreduplication pathway, manifested in decreased stomata density and reduced water loss. Consequently, this resulted in an enhancement of drought resistance. For the fruit, both cell size and cell number increased in the fruit pericarp of knockout lines, improving the fruit size and weight accordingly. Therefore, SlGT30 represents a promising candidate gene for gene editing in breeding practice.

Fetal external features and morphology of the umbilical cord of wild boars.

This study aimed to describe the gestational and morphological aspects of the fetuses and their respective umbilical cords from two pregnant wild boars (Sus scrofa). Morphological descriptions were provided for 23 fetuses and the gestational ages were estimated through fetal characteristics and formula application. The specimens were fixed in 10% formalin for subsequent macroscopic and microscopic examination. Histological characterization was performed using haematoxylin-eosin (H&E), Masson's trichrome (MT) and Verhöeff's staining techniques. The wild boar fetuses exhibited an estimated gestational age of 55 days (in the larger uterus) and 45 days (in the smaller uterus). They displayed well-developed features consistent with domestic pig fetuses, except for the presence of five pairs of mammae. Additionally, the umbilical cord consisted of two arteries, one vein, an allantoic duct, and a vitelline duct (the latter two identified only microscopically), located in the juxtafetal, intermediate and juxtaplacental portions. The arteries and veins were comprised of endothelium, smooth muscle and collagen fibres, with no elastic fibres observed in the vessel walls. The allantoic duct was lined with simple cuboidal epithelium, while the vitelline duct featured a simple squamous epithelium. In conclusion, the morphological characteristics observed in the examined structures align with the expected patterns for species of the Suidae family. Furthermore, these findings contribute substantially to the morphological characterization of the wild boar, yielding valuable insights into the fetal morphology and the structure of the umbilical cord.

Academic optimism, capital indicators as predictors of cognitive, affective, and psychomotor learning outcome among students in secondary school. Hierarchical regression approach (HRA)

BackgroundStudies that were carried out previously on learning outcomes focused mainly on the student's cognitive domain while identifying factors that predicted it. More so, most of the learner's assessments in school are largely dependent on the score obtained from specific subjects by the learner, and efforts to address other domains of instruction such as affective and psychomotor domains have been minimal or absent in regard to the variables selected for the study. This study therefore sought to address that gap by finding out the relative and composite contribution of academic optimism and capital indicators to the learning outcomes (of students. MethodsThe study adopted a correlational design with a multistage sampling technique to select a total of 534 senior secondary class II students. Two research instruments, the Academic Optimism and Capital Indicators Scale (AOCIS) and the Learning Outcomes Scale (LOS), were used for data collection. Exploratory and confirmatory factors analysis were used to assess the dimensionality of the items and factor structure of the scales. The psychometric properties obtained for scale were adequate for the instrument to be adjudged valid and reliable.The collected data were analysed using the hierarchical regression approach (HRA). ResultsThe findings of the study revealed that academic emphasis, collective efficacy, faculty trust, social capital, economic capital, and cultural capital, relatively and jointly, predict overall learning outcomes (cognitive, affective, and psychomotor construct). The result showed that there was an increased proportion of variance with each addition of a predictor to the model. Social capital reduced the percentage change at the initial time, but with the addition of economic capital, the proportion of change increased among others in the subsequent model examination. Conclusion/implication: The study provides knowledge and empirical evidence that academic optimism and capital indicators, with their dimensions, affect composite learning outcomes among students. This study will help school ministries, policymakers, and curriculum planners make sure that the educational objectives, philosophies, and programmes are planned to reflect the total learner in order to produce the total learner that will effect changes in the society. This study has provided evidence that academic inputs and capital indicators are crucial indices of their learning outcomes in the three area of learning. The ability of the school to emphasise academics, ensure that all school agents are committed to instructional delivery, and gain the trust of parents is crucial for adequate support to enhance students learning outcomes. The outcome has implication for policy development and providing a climate that can stimulate equity, trust and motivation.

Prevalence, Clinical Characteristics and Determinants of Unsuccessful Treatment Outcomes Among Pulmonary Tuberculosis Patients: A 5-Year Registry-Based Retrospective Cohort Study.

Despite the existence of effective medications, pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) remains a significant global public health concern, The evaluation and feedback of national TB control programs are crucial, requiring diligent monitoring of TB treatment outcomes and analysis of the factors influencing these outcomes. This study aims to provide valuable insights into the challenges faced by TB patients, which can inform better strategies for treatment and management in the future. We conducted a study in King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), from January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2023. The study was a registry-based retrospective cohort study. Patients' data were sourced from the National Tuberculosis Registry database of Saudi Arabia. Treatment outcomes were determined as either success or failure, considering clinical evaluation, changes in chest X-rays, and the results of subsequent sputum examinations during follow-up. To evaluate the data, SPSS version 28.0 was used. A total of 427 PTB patients participated in the study. The results show successful treatment outcomes among 88.5% of patients. Among the patients, males exhibited a higher likelihood of treatment failure as compared to females (aOR 1.3; 95%Cl 1.2-1.5, p < 0.001). Patients with positive sputum smear (aOR 1.3; 95%Cl 1.1-1.3 p < 0.00) and the presence of cough were associated with an increased risk of treatment failure (aOR1.5; 95%Cl 1.1-1.4, p < 0.001). This study shows that the percentage of unsuccessful treatment outcomes is high, ie, 11.5%, due to patients' deaths and loss to follow-up. Enhanced supervision and treatment monitoring for tuberculosis patients at high risk of treatment failure can lead to improved treatment success rates in Saudi Arabia.

Insights into hepatitis B virus infection among pregnant women: Assessing seroprevalence, serological, and virological profile at a tertiary care hospital in India

ABSTRACT Background: India bears a considerable global burden, hosting over 37 million hepatitis B virus (HBV) carriers, primarily transmitted through the perinatal route. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of HBV infection among pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic at a tertiary care hospital. Aims: This study sought to assess the seroprevalence of HBV infection in pregnant women, analyze the serological markers of HBV infection, and ascertain the viral load of HBV DNA. Settings and Design: The study was conducted at the Department of Microbiology and Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India. It adopted a hospital-based cross-sectional design. Subjects and Methods: The study spanned from January 2021 to June 2022. HBV infection among pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic of a tertiary care hospital was identified by screening their sera using hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) ELISA. For samples testing positive for HBsAg ELISA, additional tests were administered, including HBeAg, HBeAb, hepatitis B core immunoglobulin M, and total hepatitis B core antibody (immunoglobulin [Ig] M + IgG) by ELISA. In addition, a quantitative assessment of HBV DNA was conducted using real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Statistical Analysis Used: All data underwent coding and entry into an MS Excel spreadsheet, with analysis executed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21.0. Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Ethics Committee, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital. Informed consent was obtained from all pregnant women participating in the study. Results: Among the 1519 pregnant women screened for HBsAg, 15 tested positive, resulting in a seroprevalence of 1% (15/1519). Subsequent examination revealed two women with acute HBV/chronic hepatitis B-acute exacerbation infections (high infectivity) and 13 women with chronic HBV infections (low infectivity). Furthermore, only HBeAg-positive women exhibited HBV DNA levels surpassing 2000 IU/mL. Conclusions: The 1% seroprevalence of HBV among pregnant women implies an approximate count of 4 million infected women of reproductive age, posing a risk of vertical transmission to nearly 4 million newborns annually. With HBeAg-positive mothers, the risk of neonatal transmission ranges from 70% to 90%. Timely interventions for all pregnant women are imperative to mitigate HBV vertical transmission.

Pregnancy and diabetic retinopathy

Background: An increase in the worldwide prevalence of diabetes, especially among younger populations, has led to a higher prevalence of pre-existing diabetes among pregnant women. The precise mechanisms underlying the development or progression of diabetic retinopathy (DR) during pregnancy are not entirely understood. This narrative review incorporates all available data to offer fresh insights into the pathogenesis and mechanisms of the pregnancy-induced development and/or progression of DR. Moreover, the author aims to offer clinical recommendations for DR both before conception and during pregnancy to appropriately counsel these susceptible patients. Methods: A literature search was performed using various combinations of the following keywords: diabetes, pregnancy, diabetic retinopathy, ocular, eye, retina, microangiopathy, mechanism, pathophysiology, hyperglycemia, hypoxia, neovascularization, growth factors, immune system, blood flow, and recommendations. The search was conducted using PubMed/MEDLINE, ISI Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar, and only English articles published from January 1, 2020, to December 31, 2023, involving human participants, were considered. The International Diabetes Federation Diabetes Atlas website was searched for clinical recommendations. Results: Pregnancy-induced hyperglycemia, blood flow changes, growth factors, and the immune system play important roles in the development and progression of DR. Hyperglycemia leads to significant stress on the capillary endothelium through increased glucose flux via the polyol and hexosamine pathways, activation of protein kinase C, and increased formation of advanced glycation end-products. These pathways act in several ways that may lead to increased oxidative stress, inflammation, and vascular blockage. Thus, eye examinations are crucial before, during, and up to 12 months after pregnancy. Individuals with severe non-proliferative and proliferative DR should gradually decrease their blood glucose levels to near-normal levels over a period of 6 months before conception. Statins and medications inhibiting the renin–angiotensin system should be discontinued before pregnancy or at the initial antenatal visit if they are still being used. Retinal examinations should be performed shortly after conception and during the first trimester using tropicamide eye drops and digital imaging. Subsequent examinations should be scheduled based on DR severity at the initial examination. Conclusions: While the precise mechanism underlying the progression of DR during pregnancy remains uncertain, the available literature suggests that pregnancy-induced hyperglycemia, blood flow changes, growth factors, and the immune system play important roles in its development and progression. Pregnant women with diabetic eye manifestations benefit from the expertise of multidisciplinary teams comprising ophthalmologists, diabetologists, and gynecologists to improve both maternal and perinatal outcomes. Moreover, postpartum follow-up requires special attention.

A case of Gloriosa superba poisoning

ABSTRACT Gloriosa superba (GSb), or Glory Lily, is not an uncommon plant found in Sri Lanka. Every part of the plant is poisonous, especially the rhizome. It contains mainly colchicine and gloriocine which are toxic alkaloids. Fatalities following ingestion are rarely reported with current medical management. A 37-year-old male, with history of cannabis dependence and heroin abuse, ingested one and half of GSb rhizomes following a family dispute, witnessed by his family. He was hospitalized nearly eighteen hours later and he developed severe gastro-enteritis associated with nausea and vomiting. The patient’s presenting condition necessitated intensive care management for severe liver and renal failure. On the second day following admission he underwent haemodialysis and one cycle of plasma paresis but he ultimately succumbed due to unresponsive cardiac failure with arrhythmia. Subsequent autopsy examination revealed inflamed stomach and small intestinal mucosa with erosions, severe diffuse pulmonary haemorrhages with oedema, necrosis of liver and myocardium, and acute tubular necrosis. Multi-organ failure due to ingestion of GSb attributed to his death and manner of death was concluded as suicide following an inquest. This case report highlights the severity of effects of GSb poisoning including the effects on myocardium which is rarely encountered in clinical practice.

Ultrasound Versus Magnetic Resonance Imaging as First-Line Imaging Strategies for Rotator Cuff Pathologies: A Comprehensive Analysis of Clinical Practices, Economic Efficiency, and Future Perspectives.

Rotator cuff injuries are a prevalent cause of atraumatic chronic shoulder pain, imposing a significant healthcare burden. This articlereviews the clinical presentation, diagnostic imaging modalities, practice variations, and economic efficiency considerations in the evaluation of rotator cuff pathologies. Ultrasound (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are the primary imaging methods for diagnosing rotator cuff injuries. US provides real-time visualization but has limited tissue penetration, while MRI offers detailed anatomical information but is not a dynamic process. Studies show that MRI is superior to US with higher sensitivity and specificity. MRI is the gold standard, particularly for surgical planning, but US remains relevant when MRI is not feasible. Both require standardized protocols for evaluating tear dimensions and muscle atrophy. With the operator-dependent nature of US, MRI offers a more comprehensive assessment of rotator cuff tears and predictive insights for clinical outcomes. Practice variations exist in the management of rotator cuff pathologies, with some countries favoring US as the primary imaging modality and others relying more on MRI. These variations are influenced by factors like resource availability and healthcare system nuances. In Australia, current guidelines lean towardconservative management, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and increased costs. The United States often favors MRI, while Canada advocates for US as the initial choice. Economic considerations play a significant role in selecting imaging modalities. While US is cost-effective, it may necessitate subsequent MRI examinations, contributing to inefficiencies in the diagnostic process. Studies suggest that a combined approach of US and MRI is less efficient and cost-effective than MRI alone. However, the use of both modalities rather than MRI aloneis common in clinical practice, adding to healthcare expenses. In conclusion, the choice of imaging modality for rotator cuff pathologies should consider factors such as diagnostic efficacy, cost-effectiveness, and resource availability. Radiologists play a pivotal role in guiding this selection and ensuring comprehensive evaluations. Future considerations should include the revision of management guidelines and the potential inclusion of shoulder pathologies in healthcare coverage to optimize patient care and healthcare expenditure.

Synthesis and electrocatalytic evaluation of PtNi catalyst supported on SBA-15 modified carbon

Maximizing catalyst activity and stability while minimizing costs remains a formidable challenge. In this study, we employed the straightforward and easily executed ethylene glycol reduction method to synthesize highly active and stable Pt-Ni alloy catalysts, utilizing SBA15-modified carbon as the supporting material. Subsequent meticulous examinations delved into their physicochemical properties and electrocatalytic activities.Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses unveiled a uniform distribution of PtNi particles on the support, showcasing a narrow particle size distribution centered around approximately 1.91 nm with minimal aggregation. Electrochemical assessments demonstrated that Pt3Ni/SBA15-C outperforms Pt/C, exhibiting 56 and 167 mV higher half-wave potentials (E1/2) and onset potential (Eonset), respectively. Furthermore, our meticulously prepared Pt3Ni/SBA15-C, featuring a cage structure, displayed remarkable stability while sustaining superior catalytic durability under an applied potential of +0.7 V. These findings underscore the effectiveness of the cage structure catalyst, comprising porous nanoparticles, in ensuring both catalytic activity and stability. The results collectively contribute to advancing our understanding of catalyst design and performance optimization in electrochemical applications.

Moderating Gender in Work From Home Policy Implementation on State Civil Apparatus Performance using Multigroup Analysis

The WFH (Work from Home) policy has significantly changed the work landscape, particularly within governmental institutions. As organizations grapple with implementing this policy, they must navigate newfound disruptions and adapt to a new way of working. Understanding how this policy is executed sheds light on its impact on employee performance and whether the implemented work system is suitable. This study analyzed the relationship between WFH policy implementation and various factors such as work productivity, worklife balance, and overall apparatus performance, with a subsequent examination of gender moderation. Data were collected through a Google forms survey from January to February 2023, targeting all East Java Region's BPS (Central Bureau of Statistics) Regency/City personnel. Results indicate that the WFH policy enhances employee performance and productivity, both directly and indirectly. However, it also appears to diminish work-life balance. Overall, no significant differences are observed between genders regarding the implementation of WFH, whether in terms of performance, work productivity, or work-life balance, either directly or indirectly. The WFH policy emerges as a viable solution, particularly during the pandemic, offering workplace flexibility and ensuring employee health security

Health Insights from Nematode Larval Characterization in Greater Lizardfish, Saurida tumbil (Bloch, 1795) (Teleostei, Synodontidae)

Fish health is of significant ecological and economic importance. In response to public observations of parasite-like structures in a popular edible fish, this study aimed to characterize nematode larvae commonly found in the muscle and body cavity of Saurida tumbil (Bloch, 1795), a commercially important fish species inhabiting the Persian Gulf and Oman Sea. This fish, locally known as Hasoom, holds substantial culinary importance, being a staple in the diets of millions residing in countries around the Persian Gulf. A total of 458 Saurida tumbil specimens were obtained from fish markets between June 2022 and May 2023. Subsequent examination revealed the presence of a total of 6132 nematode larvae. Nematodes found in the body cavity were identified as belonging to the genus Hysterothylacium sp., family Raphidascarididae, while those in the muscle were identified as Anisakis sp. larval type, family Anisakidae. Histopathology results suggested that these parasites may have adverse health impacts on their fish host. Notably, both nematode genera were found in the third larval stage, which is known to be the infective stage for anisakidosis. Given the reported cases of anisakidosis among people living in the study region, it is strongly recommended that fish be properly cooked before consumption to mitigate health risks.

Prevalence of breast cancer in rural population of Jaipur: a survey-based observational study

Breast cancer, a global health concern predominantly affecting women, recorded 2.3 million new cases and 685,000 deaths in 2020. Alarmingly, projections suggest that by 2040, there could be over 3 million new cases and 1 million deaths. To assess breast cancer prevalence in 24 rural villages within a 60 km radius of NIMS Hospital, Tala Mod, Jaipur, Rajasthan, North India 303,121. A study involving 2023 participants conducted initial screenings, and positive cases underwent further tests, including ultrasound, mammography, and biopsy. SPSSv28 analysed collected data. Among 2023 subjects, 3 screened positive for breast lumps. Subsequent clinical examination and biopsy identified 1 normal case and 2 with breast cancer, resulting in a prevalence proportion of 0.0009 or 98 per 100,000. This study helps fill gap in breast cancer prevalence data for rural Rajasthan. The results highlight a concerning prevalence of breast cancer in the rural area near NIMS hospital, emphasizing the urgent need for increased awareness, early detection, and better healthcare access. Challenges like limited resources, awareness programs, and delayed diagnosis contribute to this high incidence. To address this, comprehensive approach is necessary, including improved screening programs and healthcare facilities in rural areas. Prioritizing rural healthcare and evidence-based strategies can reduce the burden of breast cancer and improve health outcomes.

Differentiation Syndrome Presenting as Acute Kidney Injury in a Patient of Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia on All-trans Retinoic Acid and Arsenic Trioxide Regimen: A Case Report

Introduction: Acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), classified as Subtype M3 of acute myeloid leukemia, is known for its relatively favorable prognosis, primarily due to the high effectiveness of all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) in treating the maturation block. However, it is essential to be aware of potential complications such as ATRA syndrome, which can affect 5%–25% of patients and manifest with symptoms such as fever, interstitial pulmonary infiltration, pleural/pericardial effusion, and acute renal failure. Methods: We present the case of a 47-year-old female with a history of hypertension, who experienced rash, fever, and reduced urine output during the induction phase with ATRA. Her serum creatinine levels exhibited a rapid increase from 2.63 mg/dL on October 07, 2022, to 7 mg/dL on October 18, 2022, despite having normal-sized kidneys and normal corticomedullary differentiation. A renal biopsy conducted on October 20, 2022, revealed features consistent with active tubulointerstitial nephritis, with direct immunofluorescence showing no significant glomerular immune deposits. A total of 17 hemodialysis sessions were performed. Results: A subsequent bone marrow examination conducted on October 26, 2022, demonstrated a hypercellular aspirate with normal morphology. However, due to the persistence of renal failure, a repeat biopsy was performed, revealing severe acute tubular injury. Pulse steroids were initiated, and ATRA was discontinued, resulting in an improvement in renal function. Conclusion: This case highlights an instance of acute, early, and severe differentiation syndrome (DS) occurring after induction therapy in a patient with APL. The DS in this case was particularly severe, leading to renal failure necessitating hemodialysis. The prompt initiation of pulse steroids and discontinuation of ATRA proved to be effective in managing this complication. Clinicians should remain vigilant for DS and its potential complications, including acute kidney injury and acute tubulointerstitial nephritis, when treating patients with APL.

Nationwide Screening Practices for Tamoxifen Retinal Toxicity in South Korea: A Population-Based Cohort Study.

(1) Background/Objectives: To investigate the nationwide screening practices and trends in tamoxifen retinal toxicity (tamoxifen retinopathy) in South Korea using national health insurance claims data. (2) Methods: A total of 43,848 patients who started tamoxifen therapy between 2015 and 2020 and had no prior ophthalmic diseases or other conditions requiring screening for retinopathy were included. The annual numbers of tamoxifen users and new initiators of tamoxifen therapy were assessed. The screening examinations were separated into baseline (first ophthalmic examination after tamoxifen administration) and subsequent monitoring examinations. The timing and modalities for the baseline and subsequent monitoring examinations performed between 2015 and 2021 were assessed in tamoxifen users. (3) Results: The annual number of tamoxifen users increased over the study period from 54,056 in 2015 to 81,720 in 2021. The number of patients who underwent ophthalmic examination after tamoxifen administration was 8961 (20.4%). Baseline screening was performed in 6.5% of patients within 1 year of use, and subsequent monitoring was performed in 27.8% of patients who underwent baseline screening. Funduscopy or fundus photography was performed most commonly for baseline screening and subsequent monitoring (99.0% and 98.6%, respectively), while optical coherence tomography was performed only in 21.9% and 29.6% of baseline and monitoring examinations, respectively. The average number of monitoring examinations per year was 0.68 ± 0.45. Although the annual percentage of patients receiving a baseline examination within 1 year gradually increased over time, the percentage of those with subsequent monitoring performed within 1 year was similar over the study period. (4) Conclusions: Our finding, appropriate screening in a small proportion of patients receiving tamoxifen, suggests the need to promote awareness among healthcare professionals and develop a standardized approach for screening for tamoxifen retinopathy.

Usual intake of dairy products and the chance of pre-diabetes regression to normal glycemia or progression to type 2 diabetes: a 9-year follow-up

BackgroundWe assessed the possible effect of usual dairy consumption on pre-diabetes (Pre-DM) remission or progression to type 2 diabetes (T2D).MethodsPre-DM adults (n = 334, mean age of 49.4 years, and 51.5% men) were assessed for dairy intakes (2006–2008) and followed up to 9 years for incidence of T2D or normal glycemia (NG). All biochemical measurements were done at baseline and all subsequent examinations with 3-y follow-up intervals. Multinomial regression models with adjustment of confounding variables were used to estimate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of incident T2D and NG for each serving/d dairy consumption.ResultsThe odds of NG was significantly elevated by 69% (OR = 1.69, 95% CI = 1.00–2.86, P = 0.05) per 200 g/d increased high-fat dairy intake, while the amount of total dairy or low-fat dairy was not related to the outcomes. Higher intakes of yogurt were more likely to be associated with an increased odds of NG (OR = 1.82, 95% CI = 1.20–2.74, P = 0.01). Usual intakes of milk, cheese, or cream-butter were not associated to Pre-DM remission or progression to T2D.ConclusionRegular dairy consumption may increase the chance of Pre-DM regression to NG.

A Study of Irrigation Management in Smart Farming and IoT for Greenhouse Tomato Production

In this study of the relevant literature, we look at the development of smart farming and precision agriculture in greenhouse tomato cultivation, paying particular attention to the role that the Internet of Things (IoT) and automated irrigation systems have played thus far. Five terms were used to compile this literature review: automated watering systems, greenhouses, the Internet of Things, tomatoes, and smart farming. This article summarizes recent advancements in smart farming tech, their impact on greenhouse tomato farming, and their potential to boost future crop yield and quality. The evaluation starts by introducing 'smart farming' and its significance in agriculture, followed by a review of the greenhouse sector and an overview of the Internet of Things (IoT) within it, with subsequent examination of the pros and cons of employing smart farming and IoT in greenhouse tomato cultivation through specific industry technology examples. The following overview section discusses the benefits of cultivating tomatoes in a smart greenhouse, techniques for achieving optimal results in greenhouse tomato farming, and includes case studies to demonstrate the advantages of automated irrigation for smart greenhouse tomato cultivation, while this literature review analyzes the current state of innovative farming technology and its effect on greenhouse tomato cultivation, covering smart farming, greenhouse cultivation, the Internet of Things, tomato cultivation, and automated irrigation, summarizing significant results and recommendations for future research, including promising increases in crop yield and quality.

Cobalt aluminum layered double hydroxide as a superior electrochemical probe for the sensitive detection of anti-inflammatory agent mesalazine

An anti-inflammatory medication termed Mesalazine (MLZ) is generally recommended to prevent inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). However, its prolonged usage has been associated with the risk of kidney failure. Therefore, there is a pressing need for the development of effective electrocatalysts to enable rapid detection of MLZ in the environment. Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) have emerged as promising candidates in the realm of sensor technology due to their adjustable interlayer spacing and large surface area. In this study, we utilized the hydrothermal method to synthesize cobalt aluminum-layered double hydroxide (CoAl-LDH) and evaluated its suitability as an active electrocatalyst for MLZ detection. The prepared CoAl-LDH was characterized for its physicochemical attributes employing XRD, FT-IR, XPS, FESEM, and TEM analysis. Subsequent examination of its electrochemical properties via voltammetric techniques revealed that the CoAl-LDH-modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) exhibited enhanced electrocatalytic activity. Notably, the CoAl-LDH/GCE demonstrated a lower detection limit of 0.029 µM and a linear detection range spanning from 0.049 to 665.1 µM. Furthermore, the modified electrode demonstrated favorable attributes such as good repeatability, reproducibility, and stability. Real-time application of the modified electrode in the spiked water and urine samples yielded satisfactory recovery results, indicating its potential for practical use in environmental monitoring.