Recovery Time Research Articles

Temperature-Modulated Acetone Monitoring Using Al2O3-Coated Evanescent wave Fiber Optic Sensors

This paper presents an experimental study of a fiber-optic-based acetone sensor and its temperature effects for use as a breath analyzer to detect acetone in exhaled breath. The study employs fiber optic evanescent wave-based acetone sensing, utilizing sputter coated Aluminium Oxide (Al2O3)-coated probes fabricated via clad modification technique. The optical fibers were coated with Al2O3 to achieve thicknesses of 247.03nm, 334.05nm, and 468.75nm. The sensor probes were characterized using, Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Ultraviolet-Visible (UV-Vis) Spectroscopy, and Spectroscopic Ellipsometry for uniformity, elemental, optical constants, and thickness of the Al2O3. The spectral responses of the probes were analyzed for acetone concentrations ranging from 0-100 ppm, with temperature modulation from room temperature to 100 °C. The probe with a ~334nm thick Al2O3 coating exhibited the highest response, reaching 6.2% at 100 °C in 100 ppm acetone. Linear regression revealed that the ~334nm coated probe had the highest sensitivity at 5.98 counts/ppm. The sensor showed response and recovery times of approximately 12 and 17seconds, respectively. This study underscores the stability and repeatability of temperature-modulated Al2O3-coated fiber optic sensors for selective acetone detection in various non-invasive applications.

Investigation of aluminum nitrate nanotube as the smart carriers for targeted delivery of gemcitabine anti-lung cancer drug

The potential of aluminum nitrate nanotube as a drug carrier for anti-lung cancer drug gemcitabine is examined based on the density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The adsorption geometries of gemcitabine drug onto the surface of nanotube are investigated for various orientation in order to attain the most stable configuration. Significant interaction is observed between the double bonded oxygen atom of the gemcitabine drug and aluminum atom of the nanocage. The charge transfer analysis indicates that there is significant interaction along with considerable charge transfer between gemcitabine and the aluminum nitrate nanotube. The electronic properties such as highest occupied molecular orbital, lowest unoccupied molecular orbitals energy levels, energy gap, chemical hardness, chemical potential, electrophilicity index, and dipole moment for the best three configurations of the complexation are examined. The recovery time calculations are also performed at 298.15 K temperature in order to study the drug desorption process on the targeted site. The stability of the complex is compared in both gas and aqueous medium. Eventually, this work interprets that aluminum nitrate nanotube can be considered to be suitable candidates for delivering gemcitabine anti-lung cancer drug in a biological system.

Co3O4/CQDs composite for selective ammonia detection in exhaled human breath analysis

Co3O4 was synthesized using electrospinning method and different amounts of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) were subsequently doped into the Co3O4 matrix via grinding, resulting in Co3O4/CQDs composite materials with various ratios. Gas sensing tests revealed that the resulting composite Co3O4/CQDs sensors exhibited excellent performance at a low temperature of 50°C, with outstanding selectivity towards ammonia gas and rapid response and recovery characteristics. Specifically, response and recovery time for 50 ppm ammonia gas were 14 s and 164 s, respectively. The outcomes of the exhalation simulation test utilizing sensors composed of this material demonstrate that the sensor's response to simulated chronic kidney disease breath closely approximates that of pure biological samples (1.08), exceeding the average response value of healthy exhaled breath samples (1.0). This demonstrates the sensor's capability to differentiate between healthy individuals and chronic kidney disease patients despite significant water vapor and carbon dioxide interference. This study provides valuable insights for the development of more efficient ammonia sensors and their role in the early detection of chronic kidney disease.

A DFT study of SF6 decomposition products (H2S, SO2, and CS2) adsorption and detection on Pd-ZnO/SnS2 ternary composites

Real-time and accurate detection of SF6 decomposition products is a crucial approach to diagnosing internal faults of gas-insulated switchgear (GIS). However, the limited sensitivity and selectivity of SnS2 gas sensors have hindered their further development and application. This study employs density functional theory to design the optimal Pd-ZnO/SnS2 monolayer structure and investigate its adsorption behavior toward H2S, SO2, and CS2. The findings indicate that Pd atom doping and ZnO nanoparticle incorporation significantly enhance the conductivity of the SnS2 monolayer, reducing the band gap to 0.54 eV and lowering the work function by 5.019 eV. Regarding gas adsorption and sensing, the Pd-ZnO/SnS2 monolayer outperforms intrinsic SnS2 and ZnO/SnS2, showing the order in which SF6 decomposition products are selected is: CS2 > SO2 > H2S. Additionally, the sensitivity and recovery time of Pd-ZnO/SnS2 as a gas sensor were evaluated, confirming its excellent sensing performance for SO2 and CS2 detection. This study provides theoretical insights to advance the application of gas sensors in online insulation equipment monitoring.

Sinoatrial node function and the role of sinoatrial conduction in the typical atrial flutter substrate

BackgroundSinoatrial node (SAN) activation and sinoatrial conduction pathways (SACPs) have been assessed in animals but not in humans. ObjectivesWe used ultrahigh-density mapping and simulated models to characterize the SAN and to investigate whether slowed SAN conduction may contribute to the atrial flutter (AFL) substrate. MethodsTwenty-seven patients undergoing electrophysiologic procedures had right atrial mapping. SAN activation patterns and conduction block were analyzed. The interaction between the SAN and the intercaval line of block (LOB) was analyzed, and right atrial simulations with different degrees of block were created to investigate arrhythmia mechanisms. ResultsFifteen AFL patients and 12 reference patients were enrolled. SACPs were identified in all patients with sinus rhythm maps. An SAN-adjacent LOB was observed in AFL patients. SAN conduction velocity was slower in AFL vs reference (0.60 m/s [0.56–0.78 m/s] vs 1.13 m/s [1.00–1.21 m/s]; P = .0021). Coronary sinus paced maps displayed an intercaval LOB in AFL patients but not in reference patients, which was completed superiorly by the SAN-adjacent LOB. Corrected sinus node recovery time was longer in AFL patients (552.3 ± 182.9 ms vs 325.4 ± 138.3 ms; P < .006) and correlated with degree of intercaval block (r = 0.7236; P = .0003). Computer modeling supported an important role of SAN-associated block in the flutter substrate. ConclusionUltrahigh-density mapping accurately identifies SAN activation and SACPs. The LOB important for typical AFL was longer in AFL patients, and when partial, it was always present inferiorly and completed superiorly because of slowed conduction across the SAN. Corrected sinus node recovery time correlated with intercaval block, suggesting a role for SAN disease in the genesis of the typical AFL substrate.

Rapid Detection of Explicit Volatile Organic Compounds for Early Diagnosis of Lung Cancer Using MoSi2N4 Monolayer.

In this study, we investigate the adsorption of MoSi2N4) and MoSi2N4-VNtowards five potential lung cancer volatile organic compounds (VOCs).Density functional theory calculations reveal that MoSi2N4 weakly adsorb the mentioned VOCs, whereas introduction of nitrogen vacancies significantly enhances the adsorption energies ([[EQUATION]]), both in gas phase and aqueous medium. The MoSi2N4-VN monolayers exhibit a reduced bandgap and facilitate charge transfer upon VOCs adsorption, resulting in enhanced [[EQUATION]] values of -0.83, -0.76, -0.49, -0.61, and -0.50 eV for 2,3,4-trimethyl hexane, 4-methyl octane, o-toluidine, Aniline, and Ethylbenzene, respectively. Bader charge analysis and spin-polarized density of states (SPDOS) elucidate the charge redistribution and hybridization between MoSi2N4-VN and the adsorbed VOCs. The work function of MoSi2N4-VN is significantly reduced upon VOCs adsorption due to induced dipole moments, enabling smooth charge transfer and selective VOCs sensing. Notably, MoSi2N4-VN monolayers exhibit sensor responses ranging from 16.2% to 26.6% towards the VOCs, with discernible selectivity. Importantly, the recovery times of the VOCs desorption is minimal, reinforcing the suitability of MoSi2N4-VN as a rapid, and reusable biosensor platform for efficient detection of lung cancer biomarkers. Thermodynamic analysis based on Langmuir adsorption model shows improved adsorption and detection capabilities MoSi2N4-VN under diverse operating conditions of temperatures and pressures.

Adsorption of Thiotepa on B12N12, Mg12O12, and Si12C12 Fullerene-like Cages: A DFT Study

We examined the adsorption of thiotepa (TTP) on the outer surface of B12N12, Mg12O12, and Si12C12 fullerene-like cages using density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The computations were carried out at the Perdew-Burke-Ernzerhof level with the D3 dispersion correction (PBE-D3) in a water solvent. The adsorption mechanism of TTP through N-head and S-head on the external surface of Si12C12 involves a covalent interaction (binding energy ∼ -1.31 eV) with the carrier surface. In contrast, the adsorption of the TTP molecule through N-head and S-head on the outer surfaces of B12N12 (binding energy ∼ -0.75 eV) and Mg12O12 (binding energy ∼ -0.62 eV) fullerene-like cages is driven by electrostatic interactions. Therefore, due to their low values of recovery time, both B12N12 and Mg12O12 fullerene-like cages can serve as carriers for TTP in the treatment of cancer. Thermodynamic parameters (Gibbs free energy and enthalpy energy) demonstrate that these interactions are exothermic and spontaneous. The results further reveal the significant disparity in the calculated HOMO and LUMO energies at the computational level. The formation of intricate bonds between the drug and the fullerene-like cages is attributed to the charge transfer dynamics that occur during their interactions. Through computational analysis and examination of the total density of state (TDOS) plots, it is evident that B12N12 and Si12C12 fullerene-like cages exhibit a high degree of sensitivity to the TTP drug. The adsorption process can increase the electrical conductivity of B12N12 and Si12C12, while having minimal effect on Mg12O12. This suggests that B12N12 could potentially serve as a suitable biosensor for detecting TTP.

Effects of remimazolam versus dexmedetomidine on recovery after transcatheter aortic valve replacement under monitored anesthesia care: a propensity score-matched, non-inferiority study.

Minimalist transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) under monitored anesthesia care (MAC) emphasizes early recovery. Remimazolam is a novel benzodiazepine with a short recovery time. This study hypothesized that remimazolam is non-inferior to dexmedetomidine in terms of recovery after TAVR. In this retrospective observational study, remimazolam was compared to dexmedetomidine in patients who underwent TAVR under MAC at a tertiary academic hospital between July 2020 and July 2022. The primary outcome was timely recovery after TAVR, defined as discharge from the intensive care unit within the first day following the procedure. Propensity score matching was used to compare timely recovery between remimazolam and dexmedetomidine, applying a non-inferiority margin of -10%. The study included 464 patients, of whom 218 received remimazolam and 246 received dexmedetomidine. After propensity score matching, 164 patients in each group were included in the analysis. Regarding timely recovery after TAVR, remimazolam was non-inferior to dexmedetomidine (152 of 164 [92.7%] in the remimazolam group versus 153 of 164 [93.3%] in the dexmedetomidine group, risk difference [95% CI]: -0.6% [-6.7%, 5.5%]). The use of remimazolam was associated with fewer postoperative vasopressors/inotropes (21 of 164 [12.8%] vs. 39 of 164 [23.8%]) and temporary pacemakers (TPMs) (76 of 164 [46.3%] vs. 108 of 164 [65.9%]) compared to dexmedetomidine. In patients undergoing TAVR under MAC, remimazolam was non-inferior to dexmedetomidine in terms of timely recovery. Remimazolam may be associated with better postoperative recovery profiles, including a lesser need for vasopressors/inotropes and TPMs.

γ- WO3 decorated MXene: An advanced nanomaterial for room temperature operable enhanced ammonia sensor

The proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) applications necessitates the deployment of high-performance ammonia (NH3) sensors. In recent studies, Ti3C2Tx, a novel two-dimensional (2D) material, has been extensively investigated for its potential as a room temperature NH3 sensor. However, pristine MXene-based sensors have exhibited deficiencies in long-term stability and reproducibility. In response, an MXene/γ-WO3 composite has been synthesized using an ultra-sonication method to address these challenges. The resulting composite sensor has demonstrated remarkable performance, attributable to, increased active sites from defects induced by WO3, and the presence of a p-n heterojunction. Notably, electron transfer from WO3 to Ti3C2Tx has been identified as a critical contributing factor to the enhanced characteristics of these nanohybrids, as evidenced by observed alterations in binding energies for the Ti 2p and W 4f core levels. These findings have expanded our understanding of the electrical interactions in Ti3C2/WO3 and their potential applications in diverse domains. The pristine MXene sensor exhibited a response of 59.39% at 300 ppm at room temperature, while the composite MXene/γ-WO3 displayed a response of 92.3%. Additionally, the response recovery time was recorded at 22seconds and 9seconds, respectively. The chemiresistive ammonia sensor's performance was evaluated across a range of concentrations (25–300 ppm) and relative humidity levels (11–94% RH). The composite sensor has demonstrated reproducibility and long-term stability, coupled with high sensitivity to NH3. This manuscript aims to highlight the enhanced ammonia sensing properties and selectivity of MXene/γ-WO3 composite materials.

Enhanced ammonia gas sensing performance at room temperature of binder-free NiO, Cu and Co-doped NiO thin films synthesized via the SILAR method

We have comprehensively analyzed the influence of Cu and Co-doping on the structural, compositional, optical, and ammonia sensing characteristics of NiO thin films. The X-ray diffraction analysis revealed that pure NiO, Cu, and Co-doped NiO thin films possess a cubic structure. Remarkably, the Co-dopant caused a transformation in the crystallite size and surface structure of NiO. This alteration ultimately enhanced the sensing capabilities of Co-doped NiO thin films. The presence of Co decreased the amount of energy needed to activate Co-doped NiO, resulting in enhanced sensing capabilities of the doped samples for detecting 50 parts per million of ammonia with a response time of 20 s and recovery time of 16 s and having a percentage response of 76.25 %. The enhanced sensor responsiveness and selectivity of the Co-doped NiO sensor towards ammonia can be attributed to its increased surface area, smaller crystallite sizes, and superior surface properties. The remarkable results of Co-doped NiO thin films exhibited show a potential for use in the production of highly efficient ammonia gas-detecting devices.

Low complexity and receiver IQ skew tolerant timing recovery and equalization scheme under baud-rate sampling short-reach coherent optical interconnection

Coherent detection with high spectrum and oversampled digital signal processing (DSP) has been widely used in long-haul and metro optical communication, and power consumption is one of the most challenge for its application in energy-sensitive short reach optical connections, such as hyper-scale and ultra-capacity datacenter net works. With negligible chromatic dispersion (CD) and polarization mode dispersion (PMD) in short-reach interconnects, a low complexity and robust timing recovery and equalization scheme with baud-rate sampling is proposed and demonstrated experimentally, which aims to achieve a power efficient DSP. Instead of oversampled DSP with fully-connected butterfly equalization structure, baud-rate sampling DSP with one-tap connected butterfly structure must become the most power-efficient solution for short-reach optical interconnects, because spectrum aliasing and convolutional polarization mixing caused by CD and PMD can be ignored. Compared to conventional baud-rate and oversampled DSP scheme, the experimental results further confirm the advantage of the proposed scheme in BER performance and IQ skew tolerance. Additionally, the proposed scheme with baud-rate sampling and a simplified equalization structure can also save around 75% of power consumption with a negligible performance cost, compared to oversample DSP scheme.

Effects of coffee intake on skeletal muscle microvascular reactivity at rest and oxygen extraction during exercise: a randomized cross-over trial.

The effects of coffee ingestion on skeletal muscle microvascular function are not well understood. This study aimed to investigate the acute effects of coffee intake with varying levels of caffeine on skeletal muscle microvascular reactivity at rest and oxygen extraction during maximal incremental exercise in physically active individuals. Twenty healthy young male participants were administered coffee with low caffeine (3 mg/kg body weight; LC), high caffeine (6 mg/kg body weight; HC), and placebo (decaf) in different sessions. Skeletal muscle reactivity indexes, including tissue saturation index 10s slope (TSI10) and TSI half time recovery (TSI ½) following 5-minute ischemia were measured at rest and were measured at baseline and post-coffee consumption using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). Post-coffee intake, NIRS was also used to measure microvascular oxygen extraction during exercise via maximal incremental exercise. Peak oxygen consumption and peak power output (Wpeak) were simultaneously evaluated. Post-coffee consumption, TSI10 was significantly higher in the LC condition compared to placebo (p = 0.001) and significantly higher in the HC condition compared to placebo (p < 0.001). However, no difference was detected between LC and HC conditions (p = 0.527). HC condition also showed significant less TSI ½ compared to placebo (p = 0.005). However, no difference was detected for microvascular oxygen extraction during exercise, despite the greater Wpeak found for HC condition (p < 0.001) compared to placebo. Coffee ingestion with high caffeine level (6 mg/kg body weight) significantly enhanced skeletal muscle reactivity at rest. However, the improvement of exercise performance with coffee intake is not accompanied by alterations in muscle oxygen extraction.

The Relationship between Upper Esophageal Sphincter Manometry Function and Esophageal Motility Disorders.

High-resolution manometry (HRM) provides measures of esophageal function which are used to classify esophageal motility disorders based on the Chicago Classification system. Upper esophageal sphincter (UES) measures are obtained from HRM, but are not included in the classification system, rendering the relationship between UES measures and esophageal motility disorders unclear. Furthermore, changes in the acceptable amount of esophageal dysfunction between versions of this classification system has created controversy. The objective of this study was to determine the relationship between UES measures and esophageal function. Cross-sectional study. Referral centre. HRM studies from the Calgary Gut Motility Center were reviewed for UES mean basal pressure, mean residual pressure, relaxation time-to-nadir, relaxation duration, and recovery time. Patients were grouped by number of failed swallows according to different iterations of the Chicago Classification: 0 to 4 (Group 1), 5 to 7 (Group 2), and 8 to 10 (Group 3). 2114 patients (65.1% female, median age 56 y) were included. There were significant increases in UES mean basal pressure (P < .001), mean residual pressure (P < .001), relaxation duration (P < .001), and recovery time (P < .001) between groups. Positive correlations existed between number of failed swallows and UES mean basal pressure (r = 0.143; P < .001), mean residual pressure (r = 0.201; P < .001), relaxation duration (r = 0.145; P < .001), and recovery time (r = 0.168; P < .001). Differences in UES measures exist among patients with failed swallows, with a positive correlation between UES dysfunction and increasing dysmotility. Our findings illustrate that UES measures are closely related to esophageal function, and that even minor esophageal dysfunction is related to UES dysfunction.

Theoretical Study of the Adsorption and Sensing Properties of Cr-Doped SnP3 Monolayer for Dissolved Characteristic Gases in Oil

Dissolved gas analysis (DGA) is a vital method for the online detection of transformer operation state. The adsorption performance of a SnP3 monolayer modified by transition metal Cr regarding six characteristic gases (CO, C2H4, C2H2, CH4, H2, C2H6) dissolved in oil was studied. The study reveals the relevant adsorption and gas-sensing response mechanisms through calculations of the adsorption energy, density of states, differential charge density, energy gap, and recovery time. The results display a considerable increase in the adsorption effect of the Cr-SnP3 monolayer on six gases. The CO, C2H2, and C2H4 gases lead to chemical adsorption, and the CH4, H2, and C2H6 gases lead to physical adsorption. Combined with the recovery time, the Cr-SnP3 monolayer has a strong adsorption effect on CO and C2H2 gases at normal temperatures and even high temperatures, and the adsorption is stable. C2H4 gas can be rapidly desorbed from the Cr-SnP3 monolayer at 398 K. Therefore, the Cr-SnP3 monolayer can be expected to serve as a CO and C2H2 gas adsorbent and a resistive gas sensor for C2H4 gas. This research offers a theoretical foundation for the development of the Cr-SnP3 monolayer in gas-sensitive materials.

A scoping review of rapid weight loss in judo athletes: prevalence, magnitude, effects on performance, risks, and recommendations

[Purpose] Combat sports, such as judo, are weight categorized. Weight control was established to promote fair disputes among individuals. However, combat sports athletes adopt rapid weight loss (RWL) to obtain an advantage over smaller and lighter opponents. This scoping review article presents the prevalence, magnitude, and methods of RWL and its effects on physical and competitive performance, health risks, and psychological effects. Specific recommendations for attenuating the effects of RWL are also presented.[Methods] Studies were retrieved from Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus databases. Four hundred and forty-six articles were identified, of which fifty-three were considered eligible for this review.[Results] The results showed that the prevalence of RWL was between 40% and 92.9% and that athletes reduced their body mass by approximately 5%. Although the literature suggests that RWL impairs the performance and psychological well-being of athletes, these results were obtained when recovery time was not provided.[Conclusion] No negative effects on performance were observed when the recovery time was &gt;4 h. However, health risks due to RWL practices should be considered, and RWL should be avoided.

The Drunken Satyr from the Villa dei Papiri at Herculaneum

Prior to the international loan exhibition Buried by Vesuvius: Treasures from the Villa dei Papiri at the Getty Villa in Los Angeles (26 June – 28 October 2019), the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Napoli (MANN) generously lent the ancient bronze statue of a Drunken Satyr for study, analysis, and conservation. Discovered in pieces in tunnels excavated through what has come to be recognized in the outer peristyle garden of the Villa dei Papiri at Herculaneum on July 10, 1754 and restored in 1759 at the Royal Foundry at Portici, the Drunken Satyr was praised as one of the most beautiful bronze statues to survive from antiquity. This paper provides an overview of its history and presents the results of recent study, analysis, and treatment that shed greater light on the techniques of the statue’s ancient manufacture and its alteration and state of preservation at the time of recovery. It also addresses the nature and extent of the post-antique restorations that can be identified and their ramifications on the statue’s appearance. These collective findings allow for a more comprehensive understanding of the Drunken Satyr.

Early vs late ICU admission in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia.

The type of admission to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) influences the prognosis of patients with severe pneumonia and, in the case of patients with COVID-19 pneumonia, this is still unexplored. The objective of this study was to determine the differences between early and late ICU admission. A retrospective cohort study of patients with COVID-19 pneumonia at two high-complexity hospitals in Colombia. Early ICU admission (EICUA) was defined as direct admission from the emergency department or within the first 24 hours of admission. Late ICU admission (LICUA) was defined as admission from the hospitalization service after 24 hours of arrival. A robust Cox regression was performed for the variable recovery time, to determine the impact of the ICU admission type in the hazard rate. 68.2% were EICUA patients and 31.8% were LICUA patients. Recovery and duration of hospital stay were significantly lower in EICUA than in LICUA (9 vs 15 days, p = 0.0001, and 10 vs 15.5 days, p < 0.0001, respectively). However, the duration of ICU stay (7 vs 9 days, p = 0.131) and the invasive mechanical ventilation requirement (48.9% vs 54.9%, p = 0.374) were not statistically significant. The 30-day follow-up showed no difference between the EICUA and LICUA (alive 97% vs 94.6%, p = 0.705). Mortality between EICUA and LICUA patients with COVID-19 pneumonia showed no statistically significant differences. However, the recovery time, the probability intensity of instant recovery, and the duration of hospital stay were better in EICUA than in LICUA. Neither EICUA nor LICUA affects the final status (death) of patients.

USING THE BACKFIX METHOD TO REHABILITATE ATHLETES’ INJURY IN TRIPLE JUMP – A CASE STUDY

The triple jump is a complex athletic event where performance relies on a combination of speed, strength, and advanced technique in executing the three phases that form the biomechanics of the event. Due to the specific forces exerted on the athlete's musculoskeletal system, along with potential weaknesses in physical training, athletes are at risk of injury. This case study presents the original approach used to rehabilitate and prevent new injuries usually experienced by the Romanian athlete G.R.C., a 25-year-old European junior vice-champion in the triple jump. He sought treatment at the MediSport SRL clinic for multiple chronic and acute injuries that were limiting his performance. Comprehensive clinical and functional evaluations revealed all these limitations, prompting an integrated approach to his rehabilitation and training program. After the kinesitherapy program consisting of 18 sessions focused on functional musculoskeletal balancing using an electronic dynamometer, a key component of the BackFix system and method, important improvements were observed in core stability, static balance, and posture. Additionally, muscle strength in the previously deficient areas increased, pain disappeared in all affected regions, and recovery time after competitive effort improved, laying the foundation for optimal performance in the 2024 summer season. The successful use of the BackFix method leads us to recommend it as an alternative to other traditional training and recovery methods, while also encouraging further research into its application in the triple jump and other sports branches.

Effect of Pre-Harvest Intermittent UV-B Exposure on Growth and Secondary Metabolites in Achyranthes japonica Nakai Microgreens in a Vertical Farm

Achyranthes japonica Nakai (AJN) is a medicinal plant known to be beneficial for the joints. Since it takes at least two years from sowing to harvesting in an open field, new AJN cultivation strategies are needed to shorten the production period and improve quality. In this study, high-quality AJN is produced as microgreens in a vertical farm using a commercial ginseng soil mix (Myeongpum-Insamsangto, Shinsung Mineral Co., Ltd., Goesan, Republic of Korea) and controlled environmental conditions. The cultivation conditions included a temperature of 23 ± 2 °C, relative humidity of 50 ± 10%, and a photosynthetic photon flux density of 170 ± 15 µmol·m−2·s−1. Pre-harvest intermittent UV-B exposure, with an intensity of 1.0 ± 0.3 W/m−2, was applied for one day before harvest to evaluate its effects, using controlled environmental conditions in the vertical farm. Ultraviolet-B (UV-B) irradiation increases secondary metabolite levels in plants; however, the effect of UV-B on 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E), an indicator of AJN, is unclear. Therefore, we aimed to investigate whether UV-B treatment of AJN microgreens affected growth and secondary metabolites. The treatment group was set to 12 h of continuous UV-B treatment during the day, two 6 h UV-B treatments, and four 3 h UV-B treatments to confirm the effectiveness of regular and intermittent treatment and recovery. Short-term UV-B treatment before harvesting increased phenols, flavonoids, antioxidant capacity, and 20E levels without affecting AJN biomass. The intermittent 6 h UV-B irradiation with a 6 h recovery time stimulated 20E content by approximately 1.4 times compared to the control. These study findings indicate that short-term UV-B treatment before harvesting, an appropriate recovery time, and intermittent UV-B exposure are more effective at increasing 20E content than continuous treatment. This approach provides a promising strategy for improving the nutritional and health benefits of AJN microgreens in vertical farming systems.

Efficiency of dexamethasone in reducing the incidence of headaches after spinal anesthesia during caesarean section

Background. A caesarean section is the delivery of a fetus through an abdominal incision (laparotomy) and a uterine incision (hysterectomy). The anesthesia method most often used for caesarean birth is spinal anesthesia, the prevailing complication of spinal anesthesia (SA) is post-dural puncture headache. Aims of the study. To investigate the effects of dexamethasone in reducing the incidence of headache and pain in spinal anesthesia in caesarean section. Subjects and methods. Clinical trial was conducted at Basra Maternity and Children Hospital from January 1, 2022 to July 1, 2023. The studied population was divided into two groups: Group I included 98 patients who received intravenous dexamethasone 0.2 mg/kg (maximum 16 mg) just after the spinal anesthesia, and Group II, the control group, which included 100 patients who received IV normal saline prior to spinal anesthesia. The average severity of headache was evaluated using the visual analogue scale (VAS) after recovery within the first hour, 24 hours, 48 hours, and 1 week. Results. Dexamethasone usage significantly reduced postoperative pain (no pain: 89.7% vs. 68.0%), with a p-value equal to 0.001. No notable differences were found in sociodemographic characteristics, PDPH incidence (recovery time: 8.1% vs. 9.0%, 24 hours: 10.2% vs. 9.0%, 48 hours: 4.08% vs. 5.0%, one week: 0.0% vs. 0.0%). Conclusion. Dexamethasone given intravenously had no discernible effect on headaches following a spinal puncture. It dramatically lowers pain after surgery, but it has no discernible impact on bradycardia, nausea or vomiting, shivering, or postoperative hypotension.