Twofold Reduction Research Articles

IMPLEMENTATION PECULIARITIES OF METHOD FOR LITHIUM BATTERIES TECHNICAL STATE MONITORING BASED ON ANALYSIS OF RELAXATION PROCESSES CAUSED BY LOAD VARIATIONS

The paper describes a technique for estimating the parameters of the second-order electrical model of lithium battery (LB), based on the analysis of its response to a step-like load change. The advantage of this approach is the implementation with simple and compact measuring equipment. Taking into account the limitations for the maximum LB load, the solution of a system of nonlinear equations when estimating the model parameters can be reduced to solving a system of linear algebraic equations. This finding makes it possible to implement the approach with inexpensive general-purpose microcontrollers. Thus, the paper proposes a method for reducing computational costs, which consists in sequential fitting of experimental relaxation curves with two single-exponential models instead of using a complex two-exponential model. It provides more than twofold reduction in the time for identifying the parameters of the LB’s electrical model. The experimental studies show that the obtained dependences of the equivalent circuit parameters can be explained by the general properties of physicochemical reactions occurring in LB. From a practical point of view, the proposed method has great advantages. First, it has better time localization compared to electrochemical impedance spectrometry. This advantage is especially important for LB due to the effect of the discharge processes on the results. In addition, the response time of diagnostic systems is significantly reduced. Secondly, the proposed method requires simpler and more inexpensive test equipment, which potentially makes it possible to integrate controls into the LB at the manufacturing and exploitation stages.

Study of axial dispersion on several modern structured and random packings

The study investigates the phenomenon of axial dispersion in a packed absorption column, which is known to reduce the efficiency of separation equipment by reducing the mass transfer driving force. The aim of the study is to determine the Bodenstein number, which represents axial dispersion, for five types of modern packings used in the column. The packings used in the study were random packings (NeXRing0.7 and NeXRing1.2) and structured packings (MellaPak350Y, 452Y, and 500Y). The data obtained from dynamic experiments in the form of a response to a step change in tracer substance concentration were compared to a diffusion-type differential equation, which was solved with boundary conditions for a closed system. By measuring the responses at two different packed bed heights and using convolution, the influence of the end effects was eliminated. The lowest axial dispersion was obtained for M452Y, and it is almost twice as low as for M250Y. It was found that the values of the Bodenstein number for standard series of Mellapak type packing (M250Y, M350Y and M500Y) have comparable axial dispersion, especially at low liquid rates. The axial dispersion obtained for random packings is generally higher compared to structured packings. However, compared to other random packings such as Pall rings (25 mm) and Intalox saddles (25 mm), NXR0.7 and NXR1.2 exhibit up to a two-fold reduction in axial dispersion.

The effect of Ho-doping on the synthesis, structure and magnetic characteristics of ZnFe2O4-based nanopowders

The successful production of nanopowders consisting of Ho-doped zinc ferrite (ZnFe2-xHoxO4, with x values ranging from 0 to 0.08) has been accomplished using the glycine-nitrate combustion (GNC) method, followed by calcination in air. Various analytical techniques, such as EDXS, DTA-TG, SEM, PXRD, Raman spectroscopy, and vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM), were employed to examine the resulting samples. The outcomes of our investigation indicated that an excess of fuel during the GNC process yields X-ray amorphous foamy products, which subsequently crystallize after being held at a temperature of 550 °C for a duration of 4 h. PXRD data analysis showed that the obtained samples consist of single-phase Ho-doped zinc ferrite with a spinel structure. The incorporation of holmium into the ferrite spinel structure was established to occur when the calcination temperature is elevated to 700 °C. Rietveld refinement revealed that the degree of inversion varies from 0.078 to 0.309 as the level of Ho-doping increases from x = 0 to x = 0.08. Furthermore, the incorporation of Ho leads to a more than twofold reduction in the crystallite size of ZnFe2-xHoxO4, decreasing from 61.7 to 27.3 nm. The magnetic properties of the nanopowders are shown to be systematically altered by changes in the degree of inversion and the crystallite size of zinc ferrite, which are interrelated with the holmium content. For instance, the saturation magnetization (Ms) increases by 20% and attains a value of 54.9 kOe at x = 0.08. This finding suggests that the magnetic behavior of ZnFe2–xHoxO4 nanoparticles can be deliberately adjusted, making them a promising candidate for functional materials in the field of magnetic hyperthermia. In summary, this research provides valuable insights into the synthesis, structure, and magnetic properties of Ho-doped zinc ferrite nanopowders, underscoring their potential applications in the realm of magnetic hyperthermia.

#6375 HYPOPROTEIC DIET SUPPLEMENTED WITH KETOANALOGUES VERSUS CONVENTIONAL DIET IN PATIENTS WITH ADVANCED DIABETIC KIDNEY DISEASE AND SEVERE PROTEINURIA

Abstract Background and Aims Low-protein diets seem to have an important role in the management of advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD). In addition, this type of nutritional regimen may defer kidney replacement therapy by improving metabolic abnormalities. However, low-protein diets (LPDs) may be more difficult to integrate in patients with diabetic kidney disease (DKD), because of the already complex dietary intervention in these patients. This is a comparative study that aimed to assess the effects of a ketoanalogue-supplemented low-protein diet (sLPD) versus a conventional diet on the progression of CKD and proteinuria in patients with advanced DKD. Method Ninety-seven adult patients with DKD and heavy proteinuria (>3g/g creatininuria) who proved to be compliant to protein restriction in a 3-month run-in phase were enrolled to receive a LPD (0.6g mixed protein/kg-day) supplemented with ketoanalogues of essential amino acids (Ketosteril®, Bad Homburg, Germany, 1 tb/10 kg dry ideal body weight per day) for 12 months. Ninety-two patients completed the study (5 patients received preemptive kidney transplant). The control group was made up of seventy-four adult patients with DKD and heavy proteinuria who received a conventional diet for 12 months. Efficacy outcomes were variation of the estimated glomerular filtration (eGF) and variation of proteinuria. Results At baseline, patients from the sLPD group had a median age of 61 years (95% CI 58 to 67), were mostly male (66%) and predominantly on insulin (68%). Patients in the control group had a median age of 60 years (95% CI 56 to 61), 62% were male and, similarly, the majority were on insulin (62%). All patients had poorly controlled diabetes, with a glycated hemoglobin of 8.1% (95% CI 8.0 to 8.3) in the sLPD group and 8.2% (95% CI 7.9 to 8.6) in the conventional-diet group respectively (P = .84). Although the median eGF was different between groups: 24.78 mL/min (95% CI 20.00 to 30.00) in sLPD patients versus 12.61 mL/min (95% CI 11.70 to 13.11) in conventional diet patients (p<0.0001), proteinuria was similar at baseline: 5.26 g/g creatininuria (95% CI 4.98 to 5.22) in sLPD patients and 4.05 g/g creatininuria (95% CI 3.70 to 5.80) in control group patients (P = .44). After 12 months, the decline of eFG (mL/min/month) was four-times slower in the sLPD group versus the control group [0.11 (95% CI 0.1 to 0.14) versus 0.43 (95% CI 0.30 to 0.57), p<0.0001]. A twofold reduction in proteinuria (g/month) was observed in sLPD patients compared to conventional diet patients [0.29 (95% CI 0.28 to 0.32) versus 0.12 (95% CI 0.09 to 0.15), p<0.0001]. Conclusion Low-protein diets supplemented with ketoanalogues of essential amino acids seem to be more efficient in reducing kidney function decline and proteinuria than conventional diets.

The MMP-2 histone H3 N-terminal tail protease is selectively targeted to the transcription start sites of active genes

BackgroundProteolysis of the histone H3 N-terminal tail (H3NT) is an evolutionarily conserved epigenomic feature of nearly all eukaryotes, generating a cleaved H3 product that is retained in ~ 5–10% of the genome. Although H3NT proteolysis within chromatin was first reported over 60 years ago, the genomic sites targeted for H3NT proteolysis and the impact of this histone modification on chromatin structure and function remain largely unknown. The goal of this study was to identify the specific regions targeted for H3NT proteolysis and investigate the consequence of H3NT “clipping” on local histone post-translational modification (PTM) dynamics.ResultsLeveraging recent findings that matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) functions as the principal nuclear H3NT protease in the human U2OS osteosarcoma cell line, a ChIP-Seq approach was used to map MMP-2 localization genome wide. The results indicate that MMP-2 is selectively targeted to the transcription start sites (TSSs) of protein coding genes, primarily at the + 1 nucleosome. MMP-2 localization was exclusive to highly expressed genes, further supporting a functional role for H3NT proteolysis in transcriptional regulation. MMP-2 dependent H3NT proteolysis at the TSSs of these genes resulted in a > twofold reduction of activation-associated histone H3 PTMs, including H3K4me3, H3K9ac and H3K18ac. One of genes requiring MMP-2 mediated H3NT proteolysis for proficient expression was the lysosomal cathepsin B protease (CTSB), which we discovered functions as a secondary nuclear H3NT protease in U2OS cells.ConclusionsThis study revealed that the MMP-2 H3NT protease is selectively targeted to the TSSs of active protein coding genes in U2OS cells. The resulting H3NT proteolysis directly alters local histone H3 PTM patterns at TSSs, which likely functions to regulate transcription. MMP-2 mediated H3NT proteolysis directly activates CTSB, a secondary H3NT protease that generates additional cleaved H3 products within chromatin.

Ocean acidification alters foraging behaviour in Dungeness crab through impairment of the olfactory pathway.

Crustacean olfaction is fundamental to most aspects of living and communicating in aquatic environments and more broadly, for individual- and population-level success. Accelerated ocean acidification from elevated CO2 threatens the ability of crabs to detect and respond to important olfactory-related cues. Here, we demonstrate that the ecologically and economically important Dungeness crab (Metacarcinus magister) exhibits reduced olfactory-related antennular flicking responses to a food cue when exposed to near-future CO2 levels, adding to the growing body of evidence of impaired crab behaviour. Underlying this altered behaviour, we find that crabs have lower olfactory nerve sensitivities (twofold reduction in antennular nerve activity) in response to a food cue when exposed to elevated CO2 . This suggests that near-future CO2 levels will impact the threshold of detection of food by crabs. We also show that lower olfactory nerve sensitivity in elevated CO2 is accompanied by a decrease in the olfactory sensory neuron (OSN) expression of a principal chemosensory receptor protein, ionotropic receptor 25a (IR25a) which is fundamental for odorant coding and olfactory signalling cascades. The OSNs also exhibit morphological changes in the form of decreased surface areas of their somata. This study provides the first evidence of the effects of high CO2 levels at multiple levels of biological organization in marine crabs, linking physiological and cellular changes with whole animal behavioural responses.

Towards Bright Single-Photon Emission in Elliptical Micropillars.

In recent years, single-photon sources (SPSs) based on the emission of a single semiconductor quantum dot (QD) have been actively developed. While the purity and indistinguishability of single photons are already close to ideal values, the high brightness of SPSs remains a challenge. The widely used resonant excitation with cross-polarization filtering usually leads to at least a two-fold reduction in the single-photon counts rate, since single-photon emission is usually unpolarized, or its polarization state is close to that of the exciting laser. One of the solutions is the use of polarization-selective microcavities, which allows one to redirect most of the QD emission to a specific polarization determined by the optical mode of the microcavity. In the present work, elliptical micropillars with distributed Bragg reflectors are investigated theoretically and experimentally as a promising design of such polarization-selective microcavities. The impact of ellipticity, ellipse area and verticality of the side walls on the splitting of the optical fundamental mode is investigated. The study of the near-field pattern allows us to detect the presence of higher-order optical modes, which are classified theoretically. The possibility of obtaining strongly polarized single-photon QD radiation associated with the short-wavelength fundamental cavity mode is shown.

Development and validation of a questionnaire to measure the severity of pain, functional limitations, and reduction of sports ability for german-speaking patients with osteochondral lesions of the ankle (OCLA-G)

BackgroundThere is no patient-reported functional scale specific for osteochondral lesion of the ankle (OCLA). Therefore, the objectives of this study were to develop a questionnaire that measures symptom severity, function, and sports capacity in patients with osteochondral lesions of the ankle and to determine the psychometric properties of the tool in German language (OCLA-G).MethodsThe OCLA-G questionnaire was developed according to the COSMIN guidelines. Scalable items were generated from a literature search, based on an evaluation of 71 own OCLA patients, and from expert opinions. Following a twofold item reduction the questionnaire underwent explorative data analysis and principal component analysis. Validity and reliability were analysed in four groups of participants (40 patients with OCLA, 40 patients with other foot and ankle injuries, 40 asymptomatic athletes serving as a population at risk, and 40 asymptomatic persons playing sports not at risk). The minimum age for participation in the study was set at 18 years. The mean age was 39.3 ± 15.1 years.ResultsThe final OCLA-G questionnaire consists of eight and five questions to mirror activities of daily life (ADL) and sports, respectively. Excellent internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.950 for the ADL subscore and 0.965 for the sport subscale, respectively) was found. Spearman’s rank correlation coefficients for test-retest reliability were 0.992 for the ADL subscore and 0.999 for the sport subscale (p < 0.001). The results of the exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses indicated that item difficulty was between 23.4 and 62.8. The Pearson correlation for the OCLA subscales ADL and sport was 0.853 (p < 0.001). Construct validity as tested against the SF-12 questionnaire subscales (Physical and Mental component scale) were r = -0.164 to -0.663 (p < 0.05). Statistically, there was no ADL and sport OCLA mean score difference between OCLA patients and patients with other foot and ankle injuries (p = 0.993 and 0.179, respectively), but both groups differed from the uninjured control groups (p < 0.001). There were no ceiling or floor effects.ConclusionsThe OCLA-G was successfully developed as the first patient reported and injury specific outcome scale to measure the impact of OCLA induced symptoms on activities of daily living and sport. This study provides evidence for the reliability and validity of the OCLA-G assessing patients with OCLA.Trial registrationThe registration trial number is DRKS00009401 on DRKS. ‘Retrospectively registered’. Date of registration: 10/12/2015.

Discovery of the novel auxiliary factor for β-lactam resistance BlrA in community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is one of the most important human pathogens that cause a variety of infections in community and hospital settings. This organism displays high levels of resistance to β-lactam antibiotics and this principally occurs due to the production of β-lactamase and the penicillin binding protein PBP2a encoded by mecA gene. Furthermore, additional mechanisms, such as auxiliary factors, significantly contribute to β-lactam resistance. However, the function of most of these factors is still unknown.&#x0D; Recently, in our laboratory, the novel auxiliary factor gene blrA was initially identified by transposon mutagenesis in the community-acquired MRSA strain JE2. Next, the transposon mutation was transduced to the community-acquired MRSA strain MW2, resulting in the formation of a transposon mutant for blrA (blrA::ermB), denoted as MW2A. Initially, our results suggested that MW2A is more susceptible to oxacillin than the MW2 wild-type. Then, we performed the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) method for the β-lactam antibiotics: oxacillin, cefoxitin, cephradine, ceftazidime, cefaclor and imipenem. MW2A exhibited a two-fold reduction for all tested β-lactam antibiotics compared to the MRSA wild-type strain MW2. Additionally, no phenotypical changes were observed after performing PBP2a latex agglutination test and phage spot assay. Finally, using DeepTMHMM we show that BlrA is likely to act intracellularly, which is typical of auxiliary factors.&#x0D; In this study, we show that BlrA is clearly involved in β-lactam resistance, but does not affect the expression of the gene mecA or the structure of the wall teichoic acids. Furthermore, we propose that that BlrA acts as an auxiliary factor and is activated in response to antimicrobial stress.

Easily Scalable Photonic Tensor Core Based on Tunable Units with Single Internal Phase Shifters

AbstractPhotonic neural networks (PNNs) show tremendous potential for artificial intelligence applications due to their higher computational rates than their traditional electronic counterpart. However, the scale‐up of PNN relies on the number of cascaded computing units, which is limited by the accumulated transmission attenuation. Here, a topology of PNN with Mach–Zehnder interferometers based on a single‐tuned phase shifter that implements arbitrary nonnegative or real‐valued matrices for vector‐matrix multiplication is proposed. Compared with the universal matrix mesh, the new configuration exhibits two orders of magnitude lower optical path loss and a twofold reduction in the number of the tunable phase shifter. An 8 × 8 reconfigurable chip is designed and fabricated, and it is experimentally verified that the 2 × 4 nonnegative‐valued matrix and the 2 × 2 real‐valued matrix are implemented in the proposed topology. Higher than 85% inference accuracies are obtained in the Modified National Institute of Standards and Technology handwritten digit recognition tasks with these matrices in the PNNs. Therefore, with much lower optical path loss and comparable computing accuracy, the proposed PNN configuration can be easily scaled up to tackle higher dimensional matrix multiplication, which is highly desired in tasks like voice and image recognition.

Combining multiple markers significantly increases the sensitivity and precision of eDNA‐based single‐species analyses

AbstractThe analysis of environmental DNA (eDNA) is becoming integrated as an established biomonitoring tool, often characterized by detection limits exceeding those of conventional counterparts. However, further improving the sensitivity of these methods may be invaluable for the early detection of invasive species, or for locating remnant populations of endangered species, and the adequate quantification of their abundances. In this study, we provide empirical evidence showing that the implementation of multiple genetic markers targeting different loci is a surprisingly overlooked strategy to increase the sensitivity of single‐species detections and quantification of their abundance, particularly at the lower end of the species abundance range. We analyzed 45 natural eDNA samples obtained from a wide range of water bodies in Belgium, in which either the invasive American bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus) or the rare European weather loach (Misgurnus fossilis) occurred under variable abundances, and compared detection success and precision of quantification of simplex (single locus) versus multiplex (multilocus) droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) analyses. Multiplexing different primer/probe assays targeting independent loci resulted in a significantly enhanced detection probability compared to the simplex analyses, gaining a twofold reduction in the limit of detection (LOD). Also the precision of eDNA quantification significantly improved in multiplex reactions, especially in low concentration samples. This was reflected in a significant reduction in the coefficient of variation (CV) among technical replicates, resulting in an associated decrease of the limit of quantification (LOQ). We conclude that the use of multiple markers can significantly improve the analytical sensitivity of eDNA‐based single‐species detections and precision of absolute abundance quantifications.

A Review on Modified Release Dosage Form

Among the various routes of drug delivery oral route is most preferred route. But conventional dosage form offers few limitations which could be resolved by modifying the existing dosage form. Sustained and controlled drug delivery system helps in maintaining of constant plasma drug concentration and retards the release rate of drug thereby extending the duration of action. Modified release drug products allow at least a two-fold reduction in dosing when compared to a drug that is presented in a conventional immediate release form. Modified release drug products are designed to release active pharmaceutical ingredient over a longer duration of time; At least, longer than an Immediate release (I.R) formulation. Many Pharmaceutical companies also utilize the proprietary advantages of Modified release formulations to extend the patent life cycle of commercial products thereby bringing in new business.

Combination of Lactobacillus plantarum HAC03 and Garcinia cambogia Has a Significant Anti-Obesity Effect in Diet-Induced Obesity Mice.

Obesity is a major global health problem which is associated with various diseases and psychological conditions. Increasing understanding of the relationship between obesity and gut microbiota has led to a worldwide effort to use microbiota as a treatment for obesity. However, several clinical trials have shown that obesity treatment with single strains of probiotics did not achieve as significant results as in animal studies. To overcome this limitation, we attempted to find a new combination that goes beyond the effects of probiotics alone by combining probiotics and a natural substance that has a stronger anti-obesity effect. In this study, we used a diet-induced obesity mouse (DIO) model to investigate the effects of combining Lactobacillus plantarum HAC03 with Garcinia cambogia extract, as compared to the effects of each substance alone. Combining L. plantarum HAC03 and G. cambogia, treatment showed a more than two-fold reduction in weight gain compared to each substance administered alone. Even though the total amount administered was kept the same as for other single experiments, the combination treatment significantly reduced biochemical markers of obesity and adipocyte size, in comparison to the treatment with either substance alone. The treatment with a combination of two substances also significantly decreased the gene expression of fatty acid synthesis (FAS, ACC, PPARγ and SREBP1c) in mesenteric adipose tissue (MAT). Furthermore, 16S rRNA gene sequencing of the fecal microbiota suggested that the combination of L. plantarum HAC03 and G. cambogia extract treatment changed the diversity of gut microbiota and altered specific bacterial taxa at the genus level (the Eubacterium coprostanoligenes group and Lachnospiraceae UCG group) and specific functions (NAD salvage pathway I and starch degradation V). Our results support that the idea that the combination of L. plantarum HAC03 and G. cambogia extract has a synergistic anti-obesity effect by restoring the composition of the gut microbiota. This combination also increases the abundance of bacteria responsible for energy metabolism, as well as the production of SCFAs and BCAAs. Furthermore, no significant adverse effects were observed during the experiment.

Emission peak shifted incoherent random laser through the combined effects of coupling of surface plasmons in a triangular shaped silver nanostructure, microbubbles, and the waveguiding mechanism

The random laser (RL) is now becoming an essential tool for various photonics applications, and a plethora of research advancements in RL coupled with developments in the field of techniques of syntheses of various nanostructured materials is taking place. But the realization of tuning the peak emission wavelength of RL is still very challenging. However, in this report we have demonstrated an emission peak shifted tunable low threshold incoherent RL in the visible region in a gain medium of a commercially available dye laser material and by employing the rarely used scatterer materials of triangular silver nanoparticles (TSN), microbubbles, and the waveguiding mechanism. The scattering properties of trapped microbubbles, along with the localized surface plasmon resonance property of TSN of appropriate concentration within waveguided thin films composed of glass substrates, have been methodically investigated to demonstrate the reduction in lasing threshold and tunability in the peak emission wavelength. A two-fold reduction in RL threshold by addition of TSN in the disordered system, along with a considerable narrowing down of the emission spectra to a few nanometers, are obtained. Furthermore, the peak emission wavelength shift of 6 nm is reported by suitably changing the system configuration by the addition of an optimum concentration of TSN along with trapped microbubbles. The as-developed system shows high-quality laser performance with the maximum value of η=0.64, a quantity describing the ratio of the number of stimulated radiative photons within RL and the total number of emissive photons. We propose that the total internal reflections from the microbubble surface, along with plasmonic enhancement and scattering from the TSN, mediate the waveguided RL to achieve the low threshold. Therefore, this report is an early step towards demonstrating efficient RL in a ternary scattering system. Many more avenues for investigating this developing research issue may be helpful for the future development of affordable and robust optoelectronic devices.

Side grafting tertiary amine in polyaryl ether sulfone membranes for reversible-multiple separations

In this study, a new category of copolymer was designed by side grafting of tertiary amines (TA) on polyaryl ether sulfone. The synthesized copolymers PES/ATA displayed superior thermal properties with a glass transition temperature of 200–225 °C. These copolymers with favorable film-forming properties were used to fabricate ultrafiltration membranes via a phase inversion approach. Surprisingly, it was found that the filtration performance of these resultant membranes could be reversibly tuned between a facile acid oxidation (CH3COOH:H2SO4:H2O2 = 40:1:1) and alkali solution (solution of 20 wt% NaOH, immersed for 4–8 h) treatment. While the water flux of dye solution had a twofold reduction, the oxidized membranes showed distinctly enhancement of methylene blue rejection from 35% to 91.5% after oxidation treatment. Subsequently, alkali treatment of the oxidized membranes allowed their water flux to recover up to 89% as that of pristine membranes, and the methylene blue rejection can recover to almost the same as that of pristine membranes. This phenomenon was closely related to the introduced reactive TA units: the TA group in the polymeric membrane was converted into stimulus-responsive amine oxide (AO) unit, then its charge can be reversibly changed between the acid oxidation and alkali treatment, and that can be used to tune the electrostatic repulsion and further tuned the membrane pore size. In addition, compared with the polyarylene sulfone membrane, the mechanical properties of these membrane had almost no deterioration after several treatment cycle. This study supplies a novel and facile routine to fabricate functional membranes with reversible-tunable filtration properties.

Organic residue valorization for Ethiopian agriculture through vermicomposting with native (Eudrilus eugeniae) and exotic (Eisenia fetida and Eisenia andrei) earthworms

Vermicomposting has recently been shown to be an efficient recycling technology that would improve the quality of the final product by stimulating the microbial community. However, the efficacy of vermicomposting process, as well as the microbial biomass and community structure during this bioconversion process, depend on earthworm species and type of substrate ingested. Therefore, this study investigated the potential of native (Eudrilus eugeniae) and exotic (Eisenia fetida and Eisenia andrei) earthworms in Ethiopia on nutrient transformation and microbial dynamics and enzymatic activity during vermicomposting of substrates from mixed agricultural wastes. Earthworm inoculation transformed the wastes into a nutrient-rich humified vermicompost with a significant reduction in pH, TOC and C:N ratios (twofold reduction compared to non-composted substrates). An increase in worm growth and cocoon production were shown in substrates of cow manure mixed with soybean and banana residues (CM + SB) after gut transit through Eudrilus eugeniae and Eisenia fetida. Cow manure mixed with maize and soybean residues (CM + MS) were found suitable for Eisenia andrei. The same substrate and earthworm species resulted in the highest nutrient concentrations (N, P, K, and S) and higher C loss (up to 77% of the initial C) with lower N loss (<9%) compared to non-composted substrates. A considerable increase in microbial biomass, β-glucosidase and dehydrogenase activity (two times more than control) was obtained in substrates of CM + SB using Eudrilus eugeniae. The PLFA analysis indicated that earthworms increased Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, actinomycetes, AMF, fungi18:1, and protozoan population, while they reduced fungal community (fungi18:2 and fungi18:3) compared to uninoculated control. In conclusion, vermicomposting earthworms could potentially valorize substrates from agricultural wastes into nutrient-rich and microbially improved vermicomposts.

Pilot-Scale Technology for Obtaining a Substance of Lipid-Stabilized Nanoparticles Containing a Complex of Biologically Active Substances Isolated from Gland Secretion of Musk Deer with Specified Stability Parameters

In the course of improving the pilot-scale technology for manufacturing a liposomal substance of biologically active substances (BAS) isolated from the gland secretion of musk deer, the authors established operations and modes to ensure the production of liposomes with the specified stability parameters (shape, hydrodynamic diameter, charge, and polydispersity index) in full compliance with GMP requirements and the maximum inclusion of BAS from deer musk into liposomes with the preservation of the initial biological activity of its most important components. The established modes provide for a two-fold reduction in the technological cycle duration with the substance yield of more than 90%. The improved technology ensures the production of at least 80% of liposomes with the main liposome fraction in experimental samples in the range of 200+50 nm and 250+100 nm for the final substance (before lyophilization) and after its recovery (rehydration), respectively, which is considered optimal for transmucosal drug administration. The polydispersity index was less than 0.3, and the zeta (Z)-potential was less than -35 mV. The quality indicators characterizing the dispersity of the resulting liposomal substance were studied by conventional analytical methods (dynamic light scattering, electron microscopy). On the basis of the obtained results, a draft specification for a liposomal substance (powder) containing a complex of BAS isolated from deer musk was finalized.

Further Characterization of Multi-Organ DEARE and Protection by 16,16 Dimethyl Prostaglandin E2 in a Mouse Model of the Hematopoietic Acute Radiation Syndrome.

Survivors of acute radiation exposure suffer from the delayed effects of acute radiation exposure (DEARE), a chronic condition affecting multiple organs, including lung, kidney, heart, gastrointestinal tract, eyes, and brain, and often causing cancer. While effective medical countermeasures (MCM) for the hematopoietic-acute radiation syndrome (H-ARS) have been identified and approved by the FDA, development of MCM for DEARE has not yet been successful. We previously documented residual bone marrow damage (RBMD) and progressive renal and cardiovascular DEARE in murine survivors of H-ARS, and significant survival efficacy of 16,16-dimethyl prostaglandin E2 (dmPGE2) given as a radioprotectant or radiomitigator for H-ARS. We now describe additional DEARE (physiological and neural function, progressive fur graying, ocular inflammation, and malignancy) developing after sub-threshold doses in our H-ARS model, and detailed analysis of the effects of dmPGE2 administered before (PGE-pre) or after (PGE-post) lethal total-body irradiation (TBI) on these DEARE. Administration of PGE-pre normalized the twofold reduction of white blood cells (WBC) and lymphocytes seen in vehicle-treated survivors (Veh), and increased the number of bone marrow (BM) cells, splenocytes, thymocytes, and phenotypically defined hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPC) and hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) to levels equivalent to those in non-irradiated age-matched controls. PGE-pre significantly protected HPC colony formation ex vivo by >twofold, long term-HSC in vivo engraftment potential up to ninefold, and significantly blunted TBI-induced myeloid skewing. Secondary transplantation documented continued production of LT-HSC with normal lineage differentiation. PGE-pre reduced development of DEARE cardiovascular pathologies and renal damage; prevented coronary artery rarefication, blunted progressive loss of coronary artery endothelia, reduced inflammation and coronary early senescence, and blunted radiation-induced increase in blood urea nitrogen (BUN). Ocular monocytes were significantly lower in PGE-pre mice, as was TBI-induced fur graying. Increased body weight and decreased frailty in male mice, and reduced incidence of thymic lymphoma were documented in PGE-pre mice. In assays measuring behavioral and cognitive functions, PGE-pre reduced anxiety in females, significantly blunted shock flinch response, and increased exploratory behavior in males. No effect of TBI was observed on memory in any group. PGE-post, despite significantly increasing 30-day survival in H-ARS and WBC and hematopoietic recovery, was not effective in reducing TBI-induced RBMD or any other DEARE. In summary, dmPGE2 administered as an H-ARS MCM before lethal TBI significantly increased 30-day survival and ameliorated RBMD and multi-organ and cognitive/behavioral DEARE to at least 12 months after TBI, whereas given after TBI, dmPGE2 enhances survival from H-ARS but has little impact on RBMD or other DEARE.

Naloxegol (Movantik®) Provides Rapid Response and Sustained Improvement of Opioid-Induced Constipation Symptoms in Older Adults

Naloxegol (Movantik®), an oral peripherally acting mu-opioid receptor antagonist (PAMORA) has demonstrated rapid and predictable relief of OIC in patients treated with opioids for chronic non-cancer pain in two phase 3 trials (KODIAC 4/5; NCT01309841/NCT01323790). In subjects ≥65 yrs, naloxegol (25mg, 12.5mg) demonstrated significantly better response rates, clinically relevant early symptom relief, and predictable efficacy compared with PBO. Improvements in SBMs, CSBMs, straining, and stool consistency were rapid and sustained across 12 weeks. Naloxegol is effective and safe in individuals ≥65 yrs with non-cancer pain experiencing OIC.Aim: Naloxegol, an oral peripherally acting mu-opioid receptor antagonist (PAMORA) has demonstrated rapid and predictable relief of opioid-induced constipation (OIC) in patients treated with opioids for chronic non-cancer pain in two phase 3 trials (KODIAC 4/5; NCT01309841/NCT01323790). This analysis evaluates the speed and predictability of response, and the rapid and sustained impact of naloxegol on OIC symptoms in subjects aged ≥65 yrs. Methods: Data were pooled from the KODIAC 4/5 intent-to-treat populations (N=1337). Subjects ≥65 yrs treated once daily with naloxegol 25mg, 12.5mg, or placebo (PBO) were evaluated. Response definition: ≥3 SBM/wk and increase of ≥1 SBM/wk over baseline for ≥9 of 12 weeks, and ≥3 of the final 4 weeks. For each SBM, patients documented complete evacuation (CSBM) (Yes/No), degree of straining (scale 1=not at all, 5=extreme), and stool consistency via the Bristol Stool Scale (1=hard, 7=watery). Results: This analysis evaluated 148 subjects ≥65 yrs (11.1% of the overall population). In these older adults, a significantly higher response rate was achieved with naloxegol (25mg, 50.9%, p=0.037; 12.5mg, 53.3%; p=0.036) vs PBO (32.0%). Corresponding HRs (2.52, p< 0.001; 1.90, p=0.005) indicated significant, ∼two-fold reduction in time to first SBM with naloxegol vs PBO. Time to first CSBM was ∼50% shorter for naloxegol vs PBO for both regimens (Hazard Ratios: 1.66, p=0.019; 1.45, p=0.103). Rapid, statistically significant, and clinically relevant symptom improvement (straining and stool consistency) was generally sustained from weeks 1-12 for naloxegol vs PBO. The most common AEs were GI-related and similar across regimens. Conclusion: In subjects ≥65 yrs, naloxegol (25mg, 12.5mg) demonstrated significantly better response rates, clinically relevant early symptom relief, and predictable efficacy compared with PBO. Improvements in SBMs, CSBMs, straining, and stool consistency were rapid and sustained across 12 weeks. Naloxegol is effective and safe in individuals ≥65 yrs with non-cancer pain experiencing OIC.

PD31-08 HEPARIN THROMBOPROPHYLAXIS IN SIMULTANEOUS PANCREAS-KIDNEY TRANSPLANTATION: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS OF OBSERVATIONAL STUDIES

You have accessJournal of UrologyCME1 Apr 2023PD31-08 HEPARIN THROMBOPROPHYLAXIS IN SIMULTANEOUS PANCREAS-KIDNEY TRANSPLANTATION: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS OF OBSERVATIONAL STUDIES Erica Ai-Li, Kaveh Farrohki, Max Zhang, Juliano Offerni, Patrick Luke, and Alp Sener Erica Ai-LiErica Ai-Li More articles by this author , Kaveh FarrohkiKaveh Farrohki More articles by this author , Max ZhangMax Zhang More articles by this author , Juliano OfferniJuliano Offerni More articles by this author , Patrick LukePatrick Luke More articles by this author , and Alp SenerAlp Sener More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000003324.08AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Thrombosis is a leading causes of pancreas graft loss after simultaneous pancreas kidney (SPK), pancreas after kidney (PAK), and pancreas transplant alone (PTA). There remains no standardized thromboprophylaxis protocol. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to evaluate the impact of heparin thromboprophylaxis on the incidence of pancreas thrombosis, pancreas graft loss, bleeding, and secondary outcomes in SPK, PAK, and PTA. METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines, we systematically searched BIOSIS®, PubMed®, Cochrane Library®, EMBASE®, MEDLINE®, and Web of Science® on April 21, 2021. Primary peer-reviewed studies that met inclusion criteria were included. Two methods of quantitative synthesis were performed to account for comparative and non-comparative studies. RESULTS: We included 11 studies, comprising of 1122 patients in the heparin group and 236 patients in the no-heparin group. When compared to the no-heparin control, prophylactic heparinization significantly decreased the risk of early pancreas thrombosis and pancreas loss for SPK, PAK and PTA without increasing the incidence of bleeding or acute return to the operating room. CONCLUSIONS: This study is the first to highlight that heparin thromboprophylaxis yields an approximate two-fold reduction in both pancreas thrombosis and pancreas loss for SPK, PAK and PTA. We report the dosage, frequency, and duration of heparin administration to consolidate the available evidence. Source of Funding: None © 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 209Issue Supplement 4April 2023Page: e903 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Erica Ai-Li More articles by this author Kaveh Farrohki More articles by this author Max Zhang More articles by this author Juliano Offerni More articles by this author Patrick Luke More articles by this author Alp Sener More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...