Preparation Time Research Articles

Fitting Monte Carlo simulation results with an empirical model of megavoltage x-ray beams for rapid depth dose calculations in water

Objective. The purpose of this study was to assess a method of accelerating Monte Carlo simulations for modeling depth dose distributions from megavoltage x-ray beams by fitting them to an empirically-derived function. Approach. Using Geant4, multiple simulations of a typical medical linear accelerator beam in water and in water with an air cavity were conducted with varying numbers of initial electrons. The resulting percent depth dose curves were compared to published data from actual linear accelerator measurements. Two methods were employed to reduce computation time for this modeling process. First, an empirical function derived from measurements at a particular linear accelerator energy, source-to-surface distance, and field size was used to directly fit the simulated data. Second, a linear regression was performed to predict the empirical function’s parameters for simulations with more initial electrons. Main results. Fitting simulated depth dose curves with the empirical function yielded significant improvements in either accuracy or computation time, corresponding to the two methods described. When compared to published measurements, the maximum error for the largest simulation was 5.58%, which was reduced to 2.01% with the best fit of the function. Fitting the empirical function around the air cavity heterogeneity resulted in errors less than 2.5% at the interfaces. The linear regression prediction modestly improved the same simulation with a maximum error of 4.22%, while reducing the required computation time from 66.53 h to 43.75 h. Significance. This study demonstrates the effective use of empirical functions to expedite Monte Carlo simulations for a range of applications from radiation protection to food sterilization. These results are particularly impactful in radiation therapy treatment planning, where time and accuracy are especially valuable. Employing these methods may improve patient outcomes by ensuring that dose delivery more accurately matches the prescription or by shortening the preparation time before treatment in Monte Carlo-based treatment planning systems.

Effect of cervical pillow in phacoemulsification surgery for age-related cataract patients: a prospective randomized controlled study.

To explore the application effect of cervical pillow in phacoemulsification surgery for age-related cataract patients. 104 cases of age-related cataract patients admitted to our hospital in June 2023 were enrolled and divided into the control group (traditional supine position) and the experimental group (the cervical pillow supine position) by the digital parity method (52 cases per group). The two groups were evaluated for the discomfort score, the satisfaction of patients and doctors, the head displacement rate, the number of displacement, the operation time and the time of body position during the operation and after the operation. There was no significant difference in the gender (P = 0.84), age (P = 0.86), course of disease (P = 0.82) and the time spent on position placement (P = 0.15) of the two groups. The patient in the experimental group had lower discomfort score (P = 0.0001), higher patients satisfaction (P = 0.0001) and higher doctors satisfaction (P = 0.0001) than patients in the control group. There was no significant difference between the experimental group and the control group in the proportion of intraoperative (P = 0.36) and postoperative pain (P = 0.65). Besides, the number of head transfers (P = 0.001), number of head shifts (P = 0.0001), the surgical time (P = 0.0001) and laparoscopic time (P = 0.0001) in the experimental group were significantly lower than those in the control group. The additional cervical pillow for age-related cataract patients in the traditional supine position during the operation will not increase the preparation time before the operation, but will help improve the patient satisfaction, improve the comfort and maintain a good position of the operative eye field, bringing obvious comfort and smooth operation for the surgeon in the operation, thus reducing the risk of the operation, shortening the operation time.

Chestnut as a culinary ingredient: Analysis of recipes and proposed innovative thematic menu

Chestnuts are natural dried fruits grown in many regions of the globe and have been used in different gastronomic preparations for centuries. Chestnuts are part of the local gastronomic cultures in several regions and are also being used for culinary innovations. This work analysed 266 recipes containing chestnuts obtained from different sources, such as cookbooks or the internet. The recipes were classified according to different criteria, and data analysis included basic statistical tools, significance tests, factor analysis and cluster analysis.The results showed that the utilisation of chestnuts was particularly frequent in main dishes containing meat of some sort (26.3%), as well as in desserts (24.4%). The chestnuts were usually added to the recipes mostly fresh, whole (24.1%) or cut (26.7%). The nature of the recipes was divided into classical or modern, being significantly associated with the form of incorporation of the chestnut, but not significantly associated with most of the variables used to classify the recipes (dish type, cooking, cooking method, preparation time, or moment of incorporation of the chestnut). Factor analysis indicated three factors, clearly differentiated, that in globally explained 58.1% of the variance. Cluster analysis allowed the establishment of four clusters of recipes, which were found significantly different according to all the variables used to classify the recipes. Ingredient analysis showed that the most frequent categories were spices, followed by vegetables & legumes and that the ingredients used in lower quantities were most frequently listed. Word clouds based on frequency indicated, in each of the categories, the most relevant ingredients, which were flour, butter, egg, pork, bacon, shrimp, onion, garlic, lemon, almond, salt, pepper, oil, and sugar. Lastly, a successful innovative thematic menu was developed and composed of recipes containing chestnuts, including one starter, one main dish, and one dessert.This work allows to conclude about the diverse utilisation of chestnut as a gastronomic ingredient and not only as a dried fruit.

Evaluation of the Adoption and Implementation of Technology-Enhanced Mathematics Lessons in Basic Schools

The study evaluated the adoption and implementation of technology-enhanced mathematics lessons in basic schools in the Ho West District of the Volta Region of Ghana. Grounded in the Technology Acceptance Model. The target population was all basic school teachers in Ho West District. The adopted research design was a descriptive survey research design with a quantitative approach. A stratified random sampling technique was employed and 450 basic school teachers were used as samples for the study. Data were collected using a close- ended questionnaire with a reliability coefficient of 0.77 was analyzed using frequencies, percentages, means, standard deviations, independent samples t-tests, and Pearson’s moment correlation. The results revealed that a teacher recognizes instructional technology as useful for their mathematics instruction. Hence, challenges from teachers, least access to instructional technology tools, training, time for lesson preparation, technical issues, and resistance from their students and colleagues were identified. The study recommends that regular assessments are made on the teachers’ perceptions to tailor professional development needs. Additionally, teachers should be supported by their head teachers to tackle issues specific to individual teachers.

Comparison of the efficacy of fat, cartilage, and bone grafts in traumatic and asymmetric noses

BackgroundCorrection of asymmetry and irregularity deformities with autologous grafts, without osteotomies, offers advantages to both plastic surgeons and patients with severe deviation. Various autologous tissues such as fat, bone, and cartilage grafts are viable options for this purpose. ObjectivesThis study aims to compare the efficacy of three autologous filling materials in patients with bone asymmetry. MethodsA retrospective evaluation was conducted on 297 patients seeking aesthetic nose surgery between 2015 and 2022. Only primary patients without prior surgery, those with bone asymmetry from trauma, dorsum protrusion less than 3 mm, and no osteotomy were included. Patients were divided into fat, cartilage, and bone groups. Grafts were applied to the concave side during closed rhinoplasty, and evaluations were done at 12 months post-surgery by blinded plastic surgeons and patients using established assessment tools. ResultsFat, cartilage, and bone grafts were utilized in 74, 127, and 96 patients respectively, with mean follow-up of 19 months. Mean graft volumes were 1.0 cc (bone), 1.3 cc (cartilage), and 1.6 cc (fat). Patient self-assessment scores were 75%, 84.9%, and 86.6% respectively. Asher-McDade averages were 77.2%, 86.7%, and 88.4%. Cartilage and bone graft results were statistically similar in patient self-evaluation, both significantly higher than fat grafts. Blinded assessments showed no significant difference between cartilage and bone groups. ConclusionPlacing autologous grafts on the concave side for patients with minimal nasal bone protrusion (<3 mm) yields successful results. Cartilage grafts offer advantages in volume, result estimation, and preparation time, suitable for larger patient cohorts.

High-precision all-in-one dual robotic arm strategy in oral implant surgery

IntroductionDental implantation has emerged as an efficient substitute for missing teeth, which is essential for restoring oral function and aesthetics. Compared to traditional denture repair approaches, dental implants offer better stability and sustainability. The position, angle, and depth of dental implants are crucial factors for their long-term success and necessitate high-precision operation and technical support.MethodWe propose an integrated dual-arm high-precision oral implant surgery navigation positioning system and a corresponding control strategy. Compared with traditional implant robots, the integrated dual-arm design greatly shortens the preparation time before surgery and simplifies the operation process. We propose a novel control flow and module for the proposed structure, including an Occluded Target Tracking Module (OTTM) for occlusion tracking, a Planting Plan Development Module (PPDM) for generating implant plans, and a Path Formulation Module (PFM) for controlling the movement path of the two robot arms.ResultUnder the coordinated control of the aforementioned modules, the robot achieved excellent accuracy in clinical trials. The average angular error and entry point error for five patients who underwent implant surgery using the proposed robot were 2.1° and 0.39 mm, respectively.ConclusionIn essence, our study introduces an integrated dual-arm high-precision navigation system for oral implant surgery, resolving issues like lengthy preoperative preparation and static surgical planning. Clinical results confirm its efficacy, emphasizing its accuracy and precision in guiding oral implant procedures.

Technology enhanced multidisciplinary cancer conferences in gynecologic oncology.

e13652 Background: Multidisciplinary Cancer Conferences (MCCs) improve quality of care and patient outcomes. The goals of our study were to investigate the impact of an information technology platform, Navify Tumor Board Solution (NTBS) on the (1) efficiency of preparing and conducting MCCs and (2) educational quality of the gynecologic oncology MCCs. Methods: We conducted a prospective, mixed methods study involving participants of the biweekly gynecologic oncology MCC at a comprehensive cancer center. NTBS was introduced to the gynecologic oncology MCC for the preparation and presentation of tumor board cases. Data were collected before and after the introduction of NTBS. We used a validated observational tool to assess the impact of the platform on the quality of case presentation and discussion, as well as decision making (as measured by a composite mean score). We also evaluated compliance of care plans with national guidelines, changes in care plans, and concordance of actual treatment received with MCC recommendations. The survey consisted of five qualitative and two demographic questions. Interviews lasting 10 minutes were recorded using Microsoft Teams. Analyses were conducted using SAS v9.4 (Cary, NC) and Dedoose v9.0.17, (Los Angeles, CA). Results: Pre- and Post-NTBS cohorts consisted of 49 and 60 patients, respectively. When comparing pre- versus post-NTBS cohorts, there was a difference in the mean composite score (50.57 vs 54.11; p=0.016). While there was no statistical difference between cohorts, patient care plans were changed in 13% of the cases and were 92% concordant with treatment received. Additionally, MCC recommendations were 100% compliant with national guidelines. Surveys of 13 MCC participants revealed that post-NTBS, the presentation format was more cohesive, concise, and structured. Common themes from gynecologic oncology fellows’ responses included improvement of case preparation time and simplified process while using NTBS. However, trainees reported limited use of NTBS features, difficulty incorporating graphical, and lack of a comprehensive list of NCCN guidelines. All respondents had educational goals for their participation and reported a high educational value of the MCC. These goals included knowledge acquisition of clinical diagnosis, management of standard of care versus complex situations, sentinel clinical trials underlying NCCN treatment guidelines, primary literature review, management of preparation time and flow of discussion, and preparation for oral boards. Conclusions: NTBS contributed positively to the gynecologic oncology MCC and clinical care for patients. Overall, NTBS had a positive impact on case formatting, preparation time and quality of trainee education. Comprehensive user training in the NTBS features could further enhance its utilization within the MCC.

SHEALTHY: The Exploration of a Food-Sharing Bank Interactive System Based on a Working Space

In today’s fast-paced world, many individuals turn to quick meals such as fast food, biscuits, and takeaways for lunch, contributing to a rise in chronic illnesses among young adults. Some people decide to prepare many portions of a mixed dish once so that they do not need to cook on the following days, and this also causes a monotonous diet. To combat this trend, SHEALTHY has been developed as a solution tailored for busy workplaces with limited time for meal preparation and varying schedules. SHEALTHY functions as a compact canteen where individuals can prepare meals in larger portions and store them in a communal fridge to accumulate points. These points can then be redeemed for meals prepared by others who use the shared fridge. This innovative system is built on the principles of cooperation, ensuring a well-rounded lunch experience that factors in time constraints, cost, the number of participants, and individual appetites through a series of carefully conducted experiments.

Оптимізація пробопідготовки для визначення 90SR У харчових продуктах

The aim: To determine the possibility of conducting studies of the radionuclide 90Sr in food products in accordance with GN 6.6.1.1-130-2006 «Permissible levels of radionuclides 137Cs and 90Sr in food products and drinking wate»" without concentration by the ashing method. Materials and methods: The article describes the method of calculating the minimum measuring concentration of food products. According to the results of the calculations, the products that can be measured without concentration are determined. Analytical, statistical and computational research methods were used during the work. At the stage of sample preparation for measurement, the question often arises in which form to measure the sample - native or ashed. The specific activities of food products in their native form are in many cases lower than the minimum measurable concentration (MMС) on the spectrometer. Therefore, in order to decide in what form to prepare the sample for research, before starting work, it is necessary to compare the capabilities of the spectrometer, the minimum measured concentration and the permissible level of 90Sr content in the research product. In order to solve the question of the need for ashing of the sample, calculations of MMC were carried out for each food product, as well as the weight of the raw product, necessary to obtain 0.01 kg of ash per measurement was calculated. Results: Tables are compiled based on the results of the calculations. One includes products whose activity can be measured without ashing, and the other includes products with ashing. The use of such tables makes it possible to optimize sample preparation for the study of 90Sr by the spectrometric method. Of the 50 groups of food products, 17 have been identified that can be studied in their native form, which saves time for sample preparation and increases the performance of the spectrometer.

A comparison of vintage and modern X65 pipeline steel using hollow specimen technique for in-situ hydrogen testing

The transition toward a hydrogen-based economy requires a widespread transport and distribution network, and repurposed natural gas pipelines are a viable option. An assessment of the hydrogen-induced degradation of pipeline steels is needed to inject H2 gas into the existing infrastructure safely. The conservative and standardized method consists of in-situ tensile tests in an autoclave filled with high-pressure hydrogen gas. A proposed alternative method involves using a hollow specimen as containment volume and applying the gas pressure in the inner cavity. This technique has lower costs and shorter test preparation time but is not standardized yet. This study aims to evaluate and compare the tensile properties of API 5L X65 pipeline steel in two states: vintage and modern. The influence of the surface roughness is investigated through parallel tests with drilled and reamed specimens. Hydrogen tests are compared with reference tests in an inert environment. A significant hydrogen-induced decrease in tensile properties is observed, and no significant difference between vintage and modern X65 can be drawn. The reduction in tensile properties is more significant in specimens with higher inner surface roughness. The evaluation of surface conditions appears crucial when assessing the HE susceptibility of hydrogen transport and storage equipment.

Comparison of the effectiveness of the endodontic treatment using Reciproc Blue instrument with or without glide path preparation

Background: To overcome file fracture due to torsional stress and cyclic fatigue during root canal preparation, the Reciproc Blue endodontic file system with reciprocating motion helps to shape the canal with only one instrument. Objective: To compare the time of root canal shaping and the results of endodontic treatment of first molars with Reciproc Blue files with and without glide path preparation. Materials and Methods: A controlled clinical trial on 78 first molars with irreversible pulpitis in patients visiting Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital from July 2020 to October 2022. Group 1 and Group 2 (n = 36 each) were respectively prepared with a Reciproc Blue file with and without a glide path preparation. Comparison of preparation time and treatment outcome based on clinical and radiographic characteristics at 1 week, 3 months, and 6 months. Results: Endodontic treatment using Reciproc Blue file without glide path preparation recorded a shorter time consumption (p &lt; 0.05) and no complications. However, the treatment results after 1 week, 3 months, and 6 months were not different between the two groups regards to glide path preparation (p &gt; 0.05). Conclusion: Shaping root canals with Reciproc Blue without creating a glide path reduces shaping time, simplifies the procedure, and does not adversely affect treatment outcomes compared to the group with glide path creation. Key words: First molar, glide path, Reciproc Blue, root canal preparation.

Energy Transition: The Impact of Increasing Energy Production from Renewable Sources on the Commercial Optimization Process of Conventional Power Generation Assets

Abstract Changing the way electricity is produced, as part of the energy transition process, brings new challenges to the energy industry and in particular to the power generation practices. The switch from energy systems based on fossil fuels to generation technologies based on renewable sources is proving to be much more complex than expected. Multiple recent studies have shown that the intermittency in renewable production processes is putting pressure on the system and increasing balancing and maintenance costs of the grid, calling for an efficient management of the electricity produced. Therefore, a complete phase-out of conventional power generation units (e.g. coal, gas and nuclear) is still difficult to imagine in practice, mainly because of their role in balancing the system during the hours when renewables are not available (e.g. no wind, no sun or reduced hydraulicity). From the perspective of technical and commercial management aspects, the operation of conventional assets involves the consideration of multiple constraints (such as a longer operating time before they are shut down, or a longer preparation time before they can be restarted) in order to avoid financial loss and further damages. Therefore, the aim of this is to: 1. study the impact brought by the large installed capacity of renewable assets on the energy system; 2. analyse the options for gradual phase-out of conventional assets, from the perspective of system stability; 3. draw conclusions on how the commercial optimization of the production assets should develop as the energy transition advances. The novelty of this paper lies in the fact that it makes a business study of this transition process, which does not really exist yet, and case and simulation studies, along with statistical and time series analysis were used as a methodological approach for the research.

A metagenomic analysis of the phase 2 Anopheles gambiae 1000 genomes dataset reveals a wide diversity of cobionts associated with field collected mosquitoes

The Anopheles gambiae 1000 Genomes (Ag1000G) Consortium previously utilized deep sequencing methods to catalogue genetic diversity across African An. gambiae populations. We analyzed the complete datasets of 1142 individually sequenced mosquitoes through Microsoft Premonition’s Bayesian mixture model based (BMM) metagenomics pipeline. All specimens were confirmed as either An. gambiae sensu stricto (s.s.) or An. coluzzii with a high degree of confidence ( > 98% identity to reference). Homo sapiens DNA was identified in all specimens indicating contamination may have occurred either at the time of specimen collection, preparation and/or sequencing. We found evidence of vertebrate hosts in 162 specimens. 59 specimens contained validated Plasmodium falciparum reads. Human hepatitis B and primate erythroparvovirus-1 viral sequences were identified in fifteen and three mosquito specimens, respectively. 478 of the 1,142 specimens were found to contain bacterial reads and bacteriophage-related contigs were detected in 27 specimens. This analysis demonstrates the capacity of metagenomic approaches to elucidate important vector-host-pathogen interactions of epidemiological significance.

Influence of Surgery Preparation Time on Patient Outcomes

Influence of Surgery Preparation Time on Patient Outcomes

A versatile dilution-treatment-detection microfluidic chip platform for rapid In vitro lung cancer drug combination sensitivity evaluation

Combination drug therapy represents an effective strategy for treating certain drug-resistant and intractable cancer cases. However, determining the optimal combination of drugs and dosages is challenging due to clonal diversity in patients' tumors and the lack of rapid drug sensitivity evaluation methods. Microfluidic technology offers promising solutions to this issue. In this study, we propose a versatile microfluidic chip platform capable of integrating all processes, including dilution, treatment, and detection, for in vitro drug sensitivity assays. This platform innovatively incorporates several modules, including automated discrete drug logarithmic concentration generation, on-chip cell perfusion culture, and parallel drug treatments of cancer cell models. Moreover, it is compatible with microplate readers or high-content imaging systems for swift detection and automated monitoring, simplifying on-chip drug evaluation. Proof of concept is demonstrated by assessing the in vitro potency of two drugs, cisplatin, and etoposide, against the lung adenocarcinoma A549 cell line, under both single-drug and combination treatment conditions. The findings reveal that, compared to conventional microplate approaches with static cultivation, this on-chip automated perfusion bioassays yield comparable IC50 values with lower variation and a 50 % reduction in drug preparation time. This versatile dilution-treatment-detection microfluidic platform offers a promising tool for rapid and precise drug assessments, facilitating in vitro drug sensitivity evaluation in personalized cancer chemotherapy.

Ready-to-use abobotulinumtoxinA solution versus powder botulinumtoxinA for treatment of glabellar lines: Investigators' and subjects' experience in a Phase IV study.

Botulinum neurotoxin type A (BoNT-A) is well-established for treatment of glabellar lines (GLs), and mostly formulated as powders requiring reconstitution for injection. The approved liquid formulation, ready-to-use (RTU) abobotulinumtoxinA was developed to ease injection procedures and prevent reconstitution errors. This multicenter, open-label, Phase IV study evaluated GL treatment experience using RTU abobotulinumtoxinA versus powder BoNT-A (onabotulinumtoxinA). Females with experience of BoNT-A facial treatment were randomized 2:1 to GL treatment with 50 U RTU abobotulinumtoxinA (N = 99) or 20 U powder BoNT-A (N = 51) and followed-up for 6 months or 1 month, respectively. Assessments included: time to prepare each product for injection (primary endpoint); investigators' experience with product preparation/reconstitution; investigators' and subjects' treatment experience; safety; and for the RTU product: aesthetic improvement of GLs; subject satisfaction. Compared with powder BoNT-A, RTU abobotulinumtoxinA required statistically significantly less preparation time (mean 0:33 vs. 1:34 min: s; p < 0.0001). Investigators preferred RTU abobotulinumtoxinA over powder BoNT-A (81% of treatment sessions) and found it allowed more time to communicate with subjects (97%). All investigators (100%) also found it easy-to-use, easy-to-learn, and that it fulfilled their expectations. Subjects found the RTU abobotulinumtoxinA treatment comfortable (91%), and through 6 months posttreatment, most reported satisfaction with their appearance (≥88%), looking natural (≥95%) and refreshed (≥80%). At Month 1, 99% of RTU-treated subjects had investigator-assessed improved aesthetic appearance in GLs, maintained in 76% at Month 6. No serious adverse events occurred. RTU abobotulinumtoxinA for GL treatment is well-tolerated, efficacious, shows high levels of subject satisfaction throughout 6 months, saves time, and is preferred by clinicians over powder BoNT-A. NCT05277337.

Pulsed-field ablation using a lattice-tip catheter without general anesthesia is feasible for atrial fibrillation ablation

Abstract Background General anesthesia (GA) was employed to titrate lesion formations for a pulsed-field ablation (PFA) using a lattice-tip catheter. The evidence using a lattice-tip catheter without the use of GA is limited. Purpose We conducted a series of exploratory evaluation of a lattice-tip PFA catheter ablation without GA. Methods Patients undergoing their first atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation procedures using a lattice-tip catheter were enrolled in the study. To assess acute outcomes and safety, the patients were divided into two groups: one undergoing the procedure with GA and the other without GA. Procedural characteristics were collected. Results In total, 20 patients (6 with GA, 14 without GA) were enrolled in the current study. One patient in non-GA group needed a larynx mask due to apnea from anesthesia. The pre-ablation 3D mapping time was equivalent between the two group (with GA versus without GA: 17±7 versus 16±5; P=0.762). All first-pass isolations of the pulmonary veins (PV) were successfully achieved, and there was no difference in the number of applications between the right and left PV (with GA versus without GA: 45±8 versus 53±12; P=0.206 and 47±14 versus 49±9; P=0.792). Linear lesions including anterior linear ablation (33% with GA and 36% without GA: P=1.000), roof linear ablation (67% with GA and 71% without GA: P=1.000) and cavo-tricuspid isthmus ablation (0% with GA and 7% without GA: P=1.000) were performed. The ablation, laboratory stay and fluoroscopy times were equivalent between the two group (with GA versus without GA:88±22 versus 97±20; P=0.483, 128±25 versus 111±18; P=0.216 and 9±4 versus 10±2; P=0.902), while the pre-ablation preparation times were shorter in the group without GA (with GA versus without GA:40±17 versus 14±4; P&amp;lt;0.01). There was no major and minor procedural complication in both groups. Conclusions The use of a lattice-tip catheter for ablation without GA has a potential to shorten the whole procedural work-flow including preparing time while maintaining comparable safety and lesion formation to cases where GA is utilized.

Novel Skin Prep Technique Reduces OR Preparation Times in a Randomized Trial for Podiatric and Orthopedic Procedures.

The primary objectives of any high-volume surgery department should be patient safety, block time utilization and operating room efficiency. Reducing preparation time in the OR prior to actual surgery can improve operating room efficiency and utilization, but only if patient safety can be maintained. With this goal, this study evaluated a novel skin preparation technique using a device named ULTRAPREP™, a sterile, medical-grade plastic bag that is applied to the upper or lower extremity in the pre-operative holding area which allows for skin disinfection outside the OR (referred to as "disinfection bag"). The study compared preparation times required in the OR and antiseptic efficiency (through Colony Forming Units (CFU) counts) for traditional methods versus using the disinfection bag on a total of 115 patients undergoing podiatric or orthopedic surgeries (upper and lower extremities) in one hospital. The disinfection bag reduced skin preparation time in the OR from 16.8±3.5min to 10.9±2.7min, which was a 35.2% reduction, and was statistically significant (p<0.01). Skin antisepsis met safety standards of <15 CFUs for all cases regardless of preparation type at 48h and 72h. There was no statistical difference in CFU levels between the traditional and disinfection bag methods at 48h or 72h (p>0.11). Therefore, ULTRAPREP™ has shown the ability to decrease operating room time while keeping surgical site infection rates to a minimum. Minimizing activities in the OR optimizes use of this costly resource and brings overall savings to the surgery department.

A comparison of gelatine surrogates for wound track assessment.

The use of ordnance gelatine has been widespread in the field of ballistics as a simulant for soft tissue when assessing ballistic threats. However, the traditional method of preparing ordnance gelatine is time-consuming and requires precision to ensure that the final mold meets the required specifications. Furthermore, temperature control is necessary post-production, and there are limitations on its usage duration. To address these issues, manufacturers have developed pre-mixed, gelatine-like products that are stable at room temperature and require less preparation time. Nonetheless, it is uncertain whether these new products can perform in the same manner as the gold standard of ordnance gelatine. This study used five types of blocks, including ordnance gelatine (10% and 20%), Clear Ballistics (10% and 20%) and Perma-Gel (10%) and subjected them to 9mm, 0.380 Auto fired from a universal receiver and a 5.56 × 45mm ammunition fired by a certified firearms instructor. Delta-V and total energy dissipation were measured after each test using data collected from ballistic chronographs placed in front of and behind each block. High-speed video was recorded, and a cut-down analysis conducted. The findings revealed variations in energy dissipation and fissure formation within the block, with greater energy based on fissure formation observed in the ordnance gelatine. Additionally, the high-speed video showed the occurrence of secondary combustions occurring in the premixed gelatines.

Determination of chlorothalonil in vegetables/fruits using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry with a discharge adapter interface.

Chlorothalonil (CHT), a broad-spectrum fungicide, has been employed widely to control foliar diseases, whereas with a major metabolite of polar 4-hydroxychlorothalonil (CHT-4-OH), only an acceptable nonpolar CHT residue is allowed by most countries. This study involves the method development for CHT residue in vegetables/fruits using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) with a novel modified discharge-adaptor (DA) interface. CHT residue was analyzed using LC-MS/MS with DA interface (LC-DA-MS/MS), developed in our previous works. A DA was placed on the electrospray tip to switch the ionization modes. A modified quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe (QuEChERS) method was applied to extract CHT residue of vegetables/fruits efficiently with less sample preparation time and analysis cost. CHT and CHT-4-OH spiked in four different vegetables/fruits were extracted using the modified QuEChERS method. After LC with isocratic elution, CHT and CHT-4-OH were separated within 3min. Using LC-DA-MS/MS, the ion signals of CHT were improved two to three times, and the limit of quantification of 5ng/g and linearity (r2 > 0.99) in the range of 5-200 ng/g were achieved using 10g of vegetables/fruits. The precision and accuracy were within 15% each. The modified QuEChERS and LC-DA-MS/MS were applied to examine eight field-grown vegetables/fruits; 9.5 and 2588.9ng/g of CHT were detected in two vegetables/fruits. LC-DA-MS/MS combined with modified QuEChERS was successfully applied to determine CHT residue <10ng/g in vegetables/fruits and with satisfied validation results. The developed method could reduce both analysis cost and time, attributing to simplifications in modified QuEChERS, isocratic elution, and DA interface in LC-DA-MS/MS.