ABSTRACT
The fabrication of structured zeolite adsorbents through photopolymerization-based 3D printing which offers a solution to the limitations of conventional shaping techniques has been demonstrated but many parameters still need to be optimized. In this study, we studied the influence of zeolite compensation cations on the photopolymerization and the composite's properties. Modified zeolites (LTA 4â A and FAU 13X exchanged with K+ , Li+ , Sr2+ , Ca2+ or Mg2+ ) were incorporated in PEGDA with BDMK as photoinitiator, and the formulation was cured under mild conditions (LED@405â nm, room temperature, under air). Our results indicate that the nature of zeolite compensation cations affects the colorimetric properties of polymer/zeolite composites: a better translucency parameter results in higher depth of cure. After calcination at 650 °C and complete removal of PEGDA, pure zeolitic monoliths were tested for adsorption of gas molecules of interest (carbon dioxide, dichlorobenzene and water). Structured 4â A and 13X monoliths obtained by 3D printing exhibit comparable adsorption capacity to commercial beads prepared from the same zeolites. This study enhances our understanding of the photopolymerization process involved in the production of polymer/zeolite composites. These composites are used in the fabrication of zeolitic objects through 3D printing, offering potential solutions to various environmental and dental challenges.
ABSTRACT
Background: Uterine fibroids are the most common benign smooth muscle tumors of the uterus. However, there is no consensus on whether myomectomy improves IVF success in women with non-cavity-distorting intramural fibroids. The aim of this study was to compare the IVF and pregnancy outcomes of women who had non-cavity-distorting intramural fibroids and underwent myomectomy vs women who had intramural fibroids, but did not undergo myomectomy. Methods: A retrospective cohort study at Acibadem Maslak Hospital, IVF Center, between 2019 and 2020. Data of 128 women aged between 25 and 43 years who have at least 2 intramural non-cavity-distorting fibroids of 2-6 cm in size were used. All patients had at least two IVF failure. The intervention group comprised women who decided to proceed to myomectomy before IVF (Group 1, n = 56). The control group was established women with intramural fibroids who reject myomectomy (Group 2, n = 71). Results: In regard to IVF result parameters and perinatal outcomes, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups. Between study groups, there were no statistically significant differences in the perinatal outcomes. Myomectomy surgery did not increase miscarriage and biochemical pregnancy rate (odds ratio (OR) 0.9; 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.8-3.7). Conclusion: Myomectomy does not impact on pregnancy or live birth rates substantially, according to the results of this study.
