Suitable Method Research Articles

Comparison of questionnaire and clinician-based assessment of Prakriti/body constitution in young adults: an observational study

Background: Ayurveda emphasizes a personalized medicine approach based on Prakriti (body constitution) assessment which involves morphological observation and detailed history of physiological, behavioural, and psychological attributes. In Ayurveda research, two commonly used prakriti questionnaires are developed by CSIR (Q1) and CCRAS (Q2). These questionnaires are presumed to have similar predictive capabilities, but no study has compared them with the clinician-based prakriti assessment method for suitability in clinical settings. This study aimed to compare Q1, Q2, and their agreement levels with the clinician-based prakriti assessment (CPA) method. Methods: This observational study was conducted from July 2022 to January 2023, involving adults of both sexes aged aged 18-35 years. Upon obtaining written informed consent, trained Ayurvedic clinicians assessed the prakriti of all participants using Q1, Q2 and CPA methods. Results: Out of 138 participants recruited, 67% were female. The mean±SD age for males and females was 27.80±4.43 and 26.58±4.56, respectively. Mixed prakriti types were more common than predominant types among participants. The CPA method substantially agrees with Q1 (Cohen’s kappa=0.75) and moderately agrees with Q2 (Cohen’s kappa=0.59). The positive predictive value ranges for Q1 and Q2 were (46.2-100%) and (48-100%), respectively. Conclusions: Q1 and Q2 are consistent with the CPA method, with Q1 showing better agreement. Further studies including other questionnaires is required to validate the results.

Novel Chiral HPLC Method for Accurate Identification and Quantification of R&S Enantiomers in Ropivacaine on Immobilized Chiral Stationary Phase: Development and Validation

Purpose: Ropivacaine is a widely used local anesthetic for managing postoperative pain, particularly in procedures such as caesarean sections. While historically used as a racemate, its structural similarity to mepivacaine and bupivacaine within the pipecoloxylidide group is notable. Both enantiomers of ropivacaine exhibit similar nerve-blocking properties, but the R enantiomer is associated with increased cardiotoxicity compared to the S-Ropivacaine, like bupivacaine. This study aimed to develop and validate precise and rapid chiral chromatographic techniques for quantifying potential (R&S enantiomers). Methods: We used normal phase chromatography with a (3,5-dimethylphenylcarbamate) immobilized- type polysaccharide stationary phase to quantify R&S enantiomers. The method followed ICH Q2(R1) guidelines, employing CHIRAL ART Amylose-SA for determining S-Ropivacaine enantiomeric purity in pharmaceutical drugs. The validation included accuracy and LOQ (limit of quantification) profiles, with measurement error assessments. Linear regression of accuracy profiles post square root transformations set acceptance limits at ±10%. Results: The method accurately quantified R&S enantiomers, adhering to ICH Q2(R1) guidelines. Validation showed high accuracy and precise LOQ profiles. Measurement error assessments confirmed reliability. Linear regression of accuracy profiles stayed within ±10% acceptance limits, confirming the method's suitability for determining S-Ropivacaine enantiomeric purity. Conclusion: The developed chiral chromatographic method provides an effective means of quantifying the enantiomeric purity of S-Ropivacaine in pharmaceutical drugs. Its adherence to ICH Q2(R1) guidelines ensures reliability and accuracy in measurement. This method enables precise determination of S-Ropivacaine content, which is crucial for optimizing therapeutic outcomes while minimizing the risk of cardiotoxicity associated with the R enantiomer.

Characterization of Central and Nasal Orbital Adipose Stem Cells and their Neural Differentiation Footprints.

The unique potential of stem cells to restore vision and regenerate damaged ocular cells has led to the increased attraction of researchers and ophthalmologists to ocular regenerative medicine in recent decades. In addition, advantages such as easy access to ocular tissues, non-invasive follow-up, and ocular immunologic privilege have enhanced the desire to develop ocular regenerative medicine. This study aimed to characterize central and nasal orbital adipose stem cells (OASCs) and their neural differentiation potential. The central and nasal orbital adipose tissues extracted during an upper blepharoplasty surgery were explant-cultured in Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium (DMEM)/F12 supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS). Cells from passage 3 were characterized morphologically by osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation potential and by flow cytometry for expression of mesenchymal (CD73, CD90, and CD105) and hematopoietic (CD34 and CD45) markers. The potential of OASCs for the expression of NGF, PI3K, and MAPK and to induce neurogenesis was assessed by real-time PCR. OASCs were spindle-shaped and positive for adipogenic and osteogenic induction. They were also positive for mesenchymal and negative for hematopoietic markers. They were positive for NGF expression in the absence of any significant alteration in the expression of PI3K and MAPK genes. Nasal OASCs had higher expression of CD90, higher potential for adipogenesis, a higher level of NGF expression under serum-free supplementation, and more potential for neuron-like morphology. We suggested the explant method of culture as an easy and suitable method for the expansion of OASCs. Our findings denote mesenchymal properties of both central and nasal OASCs, while mesenchymal and neural characteristics were expressed stronger in nasal OASCs when compared to central ones. These findings can be added to the literature when cell transplantation is targeted in the treatment of neuro-retinal degenerative disorders.

On Powder Bed Fusion Manufactured Parts: Porosity and its Measurement

Abstract: Powder Bed Fusion (PBF) is one of the earliest, most versatile, and popular AM processes, being well-suited for a great variety of materials. As in many other manufacturing processes, porosity is a phenomenon inevitably present in parts made by PBF. The quantity, shape, and distribution of pores, and the propensity to their formation depend strongly upon the type of process and on the processing conditions used to produce the part. It is well known that porosity influences in a dramatic way the quality and reliability of the manufactured materials and, therefore, it deserves special attention. : In this paper, porosity and the more appropriate experimental techniques for detecting and measuring porosity are reviewed. Moreover, a comparison among the results obtained by applying different methodologies to measure the porosity of parts produced by Powder Bed Fusion is reported. The final purpose of the work is to provide the reader with the tools for the correct choice of the most suitable method for measuring the porosity of additively manufactured pieces.

Evaluasi Kesesuaian Penggunaan Obat Antituberkulosis Pada Pasien Tuberkulosis Paru

Tuberculosis, caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affects the lungs. This study aims to evaluate the precise use of antituberculosis drugs, focusing on factors such as patient suitability, correct indication, drug selection, dosage, administration method, and treatment duration. Sampling involved Purposive Sampling of pulmonary tuberculosis outpatients Dr. RSUD. H. Abdul Moeloek Bandar Lampung from January to December 2021, resulting in 89 patients. The data showed a majority of male patients, with 52 (58.4%) aged between 36 and 45 years, and 24 (26.9%) weighing between 46 kg and 55 kg. Additionally, 50 patients (56%) tested positive for sputum BTA and had undergone category I treatment previously. Evaluation of antituberculosis drug usage in these outpatients revealed 100% accuracy in patient suitability, indication, drug selection, dosage, and administration method, with a treatment duration of 15 days. Hence, it can be inferred that the utilization of antituberculosis drugs is appropriate.

Evaluation of Antioxidant and Anticancer Activities of Memecylon umbellatum in Breast Carcinoma and Lupeol and Beta-sitosterol Quantified by HPTLC

Introduction: Memecylon umbellatum is a perennial plant of the Melastomataceae family that grows in abundance in the Western Ghats and has been used traditionally to treat cancer and inflammatory conditions. Methods: From the literature survey, it was found that no substantial work has been carried out to identify the bioactive compounds by HPTLC method and to screen the antioxidant and anticancer activity of M. umbellatum. Hence, an effort has been made to carry out the phytochemical investigation by HPTLC method and to screen the antioxidant activity by ABTS assay, DPPH assay, Nitric oxide antioxidant assay, Iron chelating activity and Total antioxidant activity. Results: Total phenolics and flavonoids were carried out by using suitable methods. MCF-7 as well as MDA-MB-231 cells were used to test anticancer activities in vitro. Cell cycle analysis demonstrated that ethyl acetate extract caused G0/G1 phase arrest in MCF-7 cells. HPTLC analysis led to the identification of Lupeol from ethyl acetate extract. Conclusion: The anticancer activity of ethyl acetate extract of M. umbellatum was significant. The antioxidant and anticancer activity may attributed to Lupeol, Phenolic compounds and Flavonoids.

Adsorption separation of oxytetracycline hydrochloride using natural and nanostructured clay mineral of silica in synthetic solution: Integration to white and green chemistry metrics

As emerging water pollutants, oxytetracycline (OTC) and its derivatives are detrimental to humans, organisms, and aquatic ecosystems. Oxytetracycline hydrochloride (OTCH) was effectively absorbed from water by silica (SiO2) and metakaolinite (MK). In this study, we employed a unique metric known as BAGI to evaluate the suggested analytical method's suitability effectively. Blue applicability grade index (BAGI) complements green assessment tools such as the Green analytical procedure index (GAPI), Complex green analytical procedure index ComplexGAPI, Analytical GREEnness (AGREE), Analytical greenness for sample preparation (AGREEprep), and Analytical eco-scale (ESA). The BAGI metric focuses on the practical aspects of white analytical chemistry, especially those related to “blue.” The optimal parameters for adsorbing OTCH were determined by a study (pH, OTCH concentration at the beginning of the reaction, sorbent dose, and reaction duration). This study of sorbent properties was conducted via X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The highest levels of OTCH adsorption were seen at pH 5–6 for MK and at pH 7 for SiO2. The most desirable clay minerals are those with smaller quantities. The Langmuir model accurately characterizes the results, showing a strong correlation between OTCH sorption onto MK with a maximum capacity of 165.04 mg/g and a moderate correlation for SiO2 with a maximum capacity of 25.3 mg/g. Therefore, these findings regarding the effectiveness of adsorption and the analysis of properties offer supplementary insights into the potential use of clay minerals as cost-effective and eco-friendly sorbents for treating wastewater.

Optimization and classification control of permanent basic farmland based on quality classification

Permanent basic farmland plays an important role in stabilizing agricultural production and ensuring national food security. Therefore, it is necessary to reasonably delineate and control permanent basic farmland. This article is based on the idea of classifying the quality of cultivated land resources, combined with the rules for the delineation of permanent basic farmland, and from the perspective of the synergy of “suitability-connectivity-stability” of cultivated land, a indicator system is constructed. Application of suitability, connectivity, and stability evaluation methods. Taking Zhangshu City, Jiangxi Province as an example, the status of cultivated land resources is comprehensively evaluated, and permanent basic farmland is optimized and graded for protection. The results show that: (1) the arable land in Zhangshu City is mainly of medium suitability, medium continuity and high stability. (2) Zhangshu City is divided into 43218.80 hm2 of permanent basic farmland, accounting for 79.35% of the total area of cultivated land. (3) Control and partition permanent basic farmland into three categories: core protected areas for permanent basic farmland, quality improvement areas, and key transformation areas. The above results indicate that this evaluation has a supportive role in supporting the spatial optimization and hierarchical management of permanent basic farmland, and is of great significance for the unified management of natural resources.

Parallel Simulation of Quantum Networks with Distributed Quantum State Management

Quantum network simulators offer the opportunity to cost-efficiently investigate potential avenues for building networks that scale with the number of users, communication distance, and application demands by simulating alternative hardware designs and control protocols. Several quantum network simulators have been recently developed with these goals in mind. As the size of the simulated networks increases, however, sequential execution becomes time-consuming. Parallel execution presents a suitable method for scalable simulations of large-scale quantum networks, but the unique attributes of quantum information create unexpected challenges. In this work, we identify requirements for parallel simulation of quantum networks and develop the first parallel discrete-event quantum network simulator by modifying the existing serial simulator SeQUeNCe. Our contributions include the design and development of a quantum state manager (QSM) that maintains shared quantum information distributed across multiple processes. We also optimize our parallel code by minimizing the overhead of the QSM and decreasing the amount of synchronization needed among processes. Using these techniques, we observe a speedup of 2 to 25 times when simulating a 1,024-node linear network topology using 2 to 128 processes. We also observe an efficiency greater than 0.5 for up to 32 processes in a linear network topology of the same size and with the same workload. We repeat this evaluation with a randomized workload on a caveman network. We also introduce several methods for partitioning networks by mapping them to different parallel simulation processes. We have released the parallel SeQUeNCe simulator as an open source tool alongside the existing sequential version.

Supervisor Synthesis for Petri Nets With Uncontrollable and Unobservable Transitions

This paper focuses on designing event feedback supervisors to enforce control specifications on Petri nets with uncontrollable and unobservable transitions. For each observation, the supervisor is able to select some controllable transitions to disable such that the system never reaches illegal markings. Two different methods are given to design such a supervisor. The first method computes the control policy by solving some integer linear programming problems, while the second one designs supervisors by taking advantage of the structural properties of a class of Petri nets. The computational efficiencies of these two methods increase successively at the expense of their application scopes. Two examples are given to illustrate the proposed methods, respectively. <italic xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">Note to Practitioners</i> —The motivation of this paper consists in ensuring the behavior of a manufacturing system within a given legal behavior. The typical task for a designer is to design a supervisor to restrict that the system never reaches a forbidden state under limited control and observation ability. To this end, this paper proposes two different methods to design such a supervisor. The first one needs to solve integer linear programming problems, while the second one is based on the structural analysis of a special class of systems. It should be noted that although the application scope of the first method is wider, the second method has higher computational efficiency. Therefore, the suitable method can be chosen in accordance with the specific application scenario, which is significant and useful to manufacturing engineers.

Numerical Simulation Analysis of Debris Filtration in the Bottom Nozzle

According to the IAEA report, debris fretting is the second largest factor causing fuel rod cladding rupture and causing fuel rod failure, accounting for 11%. As the first structural component for fluid entering the fuel assembly, the bottom nozzle has the function of filtering debris entering the core area, effectively reducing the possibility of debris entering the fuel area causing fretting. Currently, there is no suitable numerical simulation method for calculating it. Therefore, based on the coupling method of discrete element method and computational fluid dynamics, considering the stress and contact models of typical debris in the complex flow field near the bottom nozzle under different structures, this study established the fluid solid coupling numerical simulation method between the solid debris and the flow field near the bottom nozzle. Compared with the test results, the error is less than 10%, which verifies the correctness and reliability of this method, And based on this method, typical debris filtering behavior analysis was conducted. The numerical simulation method studied in this article provides support for the design and optimization of the filtration structure of the fuel assembly's bottom nozzle for debris filtration efficiency.

Comparison of Land Suitability Methods for Estimating Quantity of Maize Yield in Calcareous Soils

ABSTRACT The modeling and assessment of land suitability is a prerequisite for land development and is one of the necessary needs to prevent land degradation. Maize is considered to be the most important crop, covering significant areas of agricultural lands in widely different regions across the world. However, not all available lands are equally suitable for maize cultivation. The main objective of this study was focused on identifying the potentials as well as the limitations of studied calcareous soils for maize cultivation in north Khuzestan province, Iran. Furthermore, some parametric models and multi-criteria land suitability evaluation methods for physical, chemical, fertility, and climatic factors (MC-LSE) were compared in estimating the maize yield. The required samples were taken from 23 land units by excavating control pedons. The necessary physicochemical parameters were then measured in the laboratory. The land indices were calculated by using different methods. The maize potential production of the investigated area was then obtained based on the climatic conditions. Finally, using land indices and the potential production, the estimated yield for each land unit was calculated and compared with the actual yield data. The obtained results indicated that the main limiting factors for maize yield in the region are high soil CaCO3 content, high salinity, high alkalinity and low organic matter. A comparison of predicted and actual yield indicated that the corrected square root method is accurate enough to assess land suitability and to estimate the maize yield with a high coefficient of determination (0.91) and a low RMSE value.

Algal growth inhibition test with TEMPO-oxidized cellulose nanofibers

Ecotoxicity data on cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) are limited despite their wide potential applications prospects, such as structural and packaging materials, filters, coatings, foods, and cosmetics. In this study, toxicity tests of 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl radical (TEMPO)-oxidized CNFs (TEMPO-CNFs), which are one of the major CNF products commercially available in Japan, on the green alga Raphidocelis subcapitata were conducted. As nanomaterials are considered difficult-to-test substances, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development has released a guidance document that provides considerations regarding ecotoxicity tests of nanomaterials. In the algal growth inhibition tests of TEMPO-CNFs, there were specific issues to be examined, including the effects of medium components on the characteristics of TEMPO-CNFs, CNF interference with algal density measurements, algal interference with CNF measurements, and the effects of ion concentration changes in the test medium by the addition of CNFs on algal growth. To examine these issues, we conducted preliminary studies and established a suitable test method for algal growth inhibition tests of TEMPO-CNFs. We confirmed that the components in the medium for algal growth inhibition tests had negligible effects on the characteristics (zeta-potential, viscosity, and morphology) and concentration stability of TEMPO-CNFs and that in vitro and in vivo fluorescence measurements were applicable for estimating the algal densities, without interference by TEMPO-CNFs. In contrast, we observed that the grown algae interfered with the CNF concentration measurements. Therefore, we established a method to correct the measured CNF concentrations by estimating the algal contribution. Furthermore, we found that the nutrient salt concentrations in the medium changed due to interactions with CNFs; however, this change did not affect algal growth. Based on the results of the preliminary studies, algal growth inhibition tests of TEMPO-CNFs were conducted using in vitro and in vivo fluorescence measurements, along with measurements of CNFs and ion concentrations in the test dispersions. The test results showed that no growth inhibition was observed on growth rate or yield even at the maximum CNF concentration of 100 mg/L, suggesting that the ecological effect of TEMPO-CNFs on algae was relatively low. The results of this study will be valuable for conducting ecotoxicity assessments on additional CNFs and comparable nanomaterials in future studies.

A comprehensive research of deep learning approaches for High Definition map construction in autonomous driving

In the realm of autonomous driving, High Definition Maps (HD maps) are indispensable for safe and precise navigation. Traditional HD map construction methods involving point cloud capture and SLAM have proven effective but labor-intensive. This paper addresses the growing interest in leveraging deep learning techniques to streamline HD map creation. This paper presents a systematic exploration of deep learning methodologies for HD map construction. It categorizes these approaches into two core components: Feature Extraction and Feature Decoding. Feature Extraction involves the transformation of input data, comprising images and LiDAR point clouds, into Bird's Eye View (BEV) representations. Feature Decoding is dissected into rasterized map objectives and vector map objectives. Detailed analysis is conducted on prominent methodologies. The paper provides a nuanced evaluation of these deep learning techniques, highlighting their respective strengths and limitations. Factors such as precision, computational efficiency, and the preservation of fine-grained details are considered when selecting the most suitable method. This comprehensive review summarizes and prospects the research in related fields.

Bio-safe drinking water with or without chlorine: a review

Abstract Drinking water biosafety has become an increasing concern for public health. Chlorination is widely used as the main disinfection strategy worldwide but has clear and well-known byproduct issues. The Netherlands has successfully demonstrated unchlorinated approach for almost 20 years but has not been widely adopted by other countries. To chlorine or not chlorine is becoming a critical question in front of all the water utilities. This review aims to provide a good overview of current biosafety management strategies, their disadvantages, as well as the latest developments and future trends. Firstly, the advantages and deficiencies of conventional disinfection and non-disinfection were discussed. Secondly, the commonly used and promising methods for biostability assessment are described. Finally, critical views on the strategy selection for ensuring drinking water biosafety were discussed. It is recommended to achieve both biological and chemical balance by removing pathogens while minimizing the organic matter and dosing a minimum level of disinfectants, which would represent the compromise choice between the current chlorine-based disinfection and chlorine-free strategy. It's worth noting that the complexity of ensuring biosafety lies in the variations among different regions, the selection of suitable methods should be tailored to specific situations on a case-by-case basis.

IMPACT OF AN EDUCATIONAL INTERVENTION ON AWARENESS OF PHARMACOVIGILANCE AND ADR REPORTING AMONGST AYURVEDIC POST-GRADUATE STUDENTS

Objective: Adverse drug reactions (ADR) are one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality. Ayurveda is one of the oldest healthcare systems, widely practiced in India and there is a misconception that AYU and H drugs are free from ADRs. Post-graduate (PG) students are fresh pass-out medical graduates and are major contributors in providing health care at tertiary care centres. The present study was planned with the aim of evaluation of knowledge, attitude and practice of pharmacovigilance amongst PG students and impact of an educational intervention on their knowledge and attitude.&#x0D; Methods: A pre-test, post-test questionnaire based cross-sectional study was conducted. 41 postgraduate students from different branches were included. An educational intervention in the form of sensitization programme, including basic knowledge of pharmacovigilance, monitoring system for pharmacovigilance andcase-based ADR reporting was conducted. A validated questionnaire consisting of questions regarding knowledge, attitude and practice of pharmacovigilance was provided as a pre-test and post-test and the results were statistically evaluated.&#x0D; Results: Scores of pre-test reveals that the participants were aware of basic knowledge of pharmacovigilance but knowledge about reporting procedure and the monitoring system was lacking. The difference in mean scores of pre and post-test was statistically significant. Most of the participants agreed that reporting ADR improves drug safety and frequent sensitization programmes should be conducted but practically, they had not undergone any training/sensitization programme.&#x0D; Conclusion: The study reveals that even with the favorable attitude towards drug safety and ADR reporting, the unawareness of PG students about the monitoring system and deficient ADR reporting indicatesa strong need for the conduction of repeated training/sensitization programmes and other suitable methods for encouraging ADR reporting.

Radionuclide-Labeled Antisilencing Function 1a Inhibitory Peptides for Tumor Identification and Individualized Therapy.

Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy is promising to revolutionize cancer regimens, but the low response rate and the lack of a suitable patient stratification method have impeded universal profit to cancer patients. Noninvasive positron emission tomography (PET) imaging in the whole body, upon coupling with specific biomarkers closely related to the immune response, could provide spatiotemporal information to prescribe cancer therapy. Herein, we demonstrate that antisilencing function 1a (ASF1a) could serve as a biomarker target to delineate tumor immune microenvironments by immune PET (iPET). The iPET radiotracer (68Ga-AP1) is designed to target ASF1a in tumors and predict immune response, and the signal intensity predicts anti-PD-1 (αPD-1) therapy response in a negative correlation manner. The ICB-resistant tumors with a high level of ASF1a as revealed by iPET (ASF1aHigh-iPET) are prescribed to be treated by either the combined 177Lu-labeled AP1 and αPD-1 or the standalone α particle-emitting 225Ac-labeled AP1, both achieving enhanced therapeutic efficacy and prolonged survival time. Our study not only replenishes the iPET arsenal for immune-related response evaluation by designing a reliable biomarker and a facile radiotracer but also provides optional therapeutic strategies for ICB-resistant tumors with versatile radionuclide-labeled AP1 peptides, which is promising for real-time clinical diagnosis and individualized therapy planning simultaneously.

Enhancing wheat productivity utilizing nano- and bio-fertilizers in water-scarce Sinai, Egypt, under different irrigation systems

ABSTRACT This study investigates the impact of different fertilizers under varying irrigation systems and crop water requirements in water-scarce Sinai, Egypt. Field experiments were conducted during the agricultural winter seasons of 2021 and 2022 to study the response of wheat growth, yield, and water productivity under drip and furrow irrigation. The results showed that under drip irrigation system, pH showed no clear trend, while total dissolved solids (TDS) decreased with depth and were reduced by bio-fertilizer and the combination treatment. On the other hand, under furrow irrigation system, maintained a slightly alkaline pH with minimal fertilizer influence. TDS levels significantly varied, and the effects of fertilizers differed. Calcium carbonate content and organic matter varied with fertilizer types and depths. Increasing the crop water requirement from 80% to 100% improved plant growth and yield, with the 80% treatment demonstrating higher water productivity. Furrow irrigation resulted in higher growth and yields, while drip irrigation exhibited greater water productivity. Nano-fertilizer treatments consistently outperformed bio-fertilizer in growth, yields, and water productivity. Specific combinations showed superior performance due to interactions between factors. Suitable irrigation methods and regimes enhance water use efficiency. Higher irrigation levels enhance wheat growth and yield, requiring careful water management to avoid stress. Drip irrigation demonstrates superior water productivity. Reducing the water input to 80% of crop water requirements improves efficiency without compromising yield. Nano-fertilizers promote growth and grain retention as an alternative to soluble fertilizers. Combining nano with bio-fertilizers further enhances wheat growth, yield, and water productivity. These findings provide valuable insights for optimizing wheat production in water-scarce regions, considering irrigation methods, crop water requirements, and nitrogen fertilization sources.

Multiprocessing Substrates Enhanced Ta2O5/NiCo2O4 Spinel Nanocomposites for Effective Electro-/Photocatalytic and Toxicological Effects via the Caenorhabditis elegans Model.

NiCo2O4 spinel composites decorated with metal oxides (Ta2O5), reduced graphene oxide (rGO), polyaminoanthraquinone (PAAQ), and layered double hydroxide hydrotalcite (HTs) were synthesized by the hydrothermal route. The synthesized composites were characterized using X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses for structural parameters such as surface area, morphology, chemical composition, etc. The production of oxygen by the water oxidation technique is the most suitable eco-friendly method, where rGO@Ta2O5/NiCo2O4 (RTNCO) showed an efficient oxygen evolution reaction (OER) performance under 1 M KOH electrolyte. Lower Tafel slope and overpotential values of 76 mV dec-1 and 315 mV, respectively, were calculated for RTNCO. The photocatalytic degradation efficiencies calculated were MB = 97.86%, RhB = 94.75%, and AP = 96% under UV light illumination within 120 min. The degraded dye solution was tested on mung bean (Vigna radiata) plants to determine the toxicity of the dye solution after 15 days, and the results showed good seed germination similar to that in water as the control. The synthesized materials exhibited better antibacterial activity against Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli. Interestingly, the toxicological effects of the degraded dyes and drug solutions were effectively studied in the Caenorhabditis elegans model. The overall results revealed that the synthesized composites are promising for electro-/photocatalytic and biological applications.

Comparisons of different extraction methods and solvents for saliva samples.

Changes in the categories and concentrations of salivary metabolites may be closely related to oral, intestinal or systemic diseases. To study salivary metabolites, the first analytical step is to extract them from saliva samples as much as possible, while reducing interferences to a minimum. Frequently used extraction methods are protein precipitation (PPT), liquid-liquid extraction (LLE) and solid-phase extraction (SPE), with various organic solvents. The types and quantities of metabolites extracted with different methods may vary greatly, but few studies have systematically evaluated them. This study aimed to select the most suitable methods and solvents for the extraction of saliva according to different analytical targets. An untargeted metabolomics approach based on liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry was applied to obtain the raw data. The numbers of metabolites, repeatability of the data and intensities of mass spectrometry signals were used as evaluation criteria. PPT resulted in the highest coverage. Among the PPT solvents, acetonitrile displayed the best repeatability and the highest coverage, while acetone resulted in the best signal intensities for the extracted compounds. LLE with the mixture of chloroform and methanol was the most suitable for the extraction of small hydrophobic compounds. PPT with acetonitrile or acetone was recommended for untargeted analysis, while LLE with the mixture of chloroform and methanol was recommended for small hydrophobic compounds.