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1.
Am J Case Rep ; 25: e943429, 2024 Jul 21.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39033317

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND Chyle leakage with chylous ascites is a rare complication of abdominal surgery, and few cases have been reported following cholecystectomy. This report is of a 64-year-old man with chyle leak following laparoscopic cholecystectomy and describes the diagnosis and approach to treatment. Immediate diagnosis, although challenging, remains imperative. Frequently, patients manifest nonspecific symptoms, such as abdominal discomfort or nausea. They can also exhibit milky discharge from drains and wounds. Abdominal fluid analysis is fundamental for diagnosis. The existence of elevated triglyceride levels in peritoneal fluid is indicative of chyle leakage. CASE REPORT We present a case report of a 64-year-old man with chyle leakage after laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis, on postoperative day 2. A milky-white fluid was drained, and diagnosis was confirmed with elevated triglycerides upon fluid analysis. Chyle leakage decreased gradually until complete resolution at postoperative day 7, after dietary modifications and the closed-suction silicone drain was removed. The patient was symptom-free at a 2-month follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Although chyle leakage is a rare postoperative complication of laparoscopic cholecystectomy, early diagnosis and rapid multidisciplinary management are required. It is vital to consider this diagnosis even if the course of laparoscopic cholecystectomy was uncomplicated and with no anatomical variation. Thus, a closed-suction silicone drain and close monitoring of output is essential for early diagnosis. The dietary modification constitutes a cornerstone in the management of chyle leakage, and a surgical approach should be preserved for patients for whom the conservative approach fails or who have large volumes of chyle.


Subject(s)
Cholecystectomy, Laparoscopic , Chylous Ascites , Postoperative Complications , Humans , Male , Cholecystectomy, Laparoscopic/adverse effects , Middle Aged , Chylous Ascites/etiology , Chylous Ascites/diagnosis , Chylous Ascites/therapy , Postoperative Complications/diagnosis , Chyle , Drainage , Cholecystitis, Acute/surgery , Cholecystitis, Acute/diagnosis
2.
Inflamm Intest Dis ; 9(1): 157-164, 2024.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39015257

ABSTRACT

Background: Mesenteric panniculitis (MP) is an uncommon non-neoplastic idiopathic inflammation of adipose tissue, mainly affecting the mesentery of the small intestine, with its etiology remaining largely speculative. The difference in prevalence of MP among females and males varies across multiple studies. In most cases, MP is asymptomatic; however, patients can present with nonspecific abdominal symptoms or can mimic underlying gastrointestinal and abdominal diseases. The diagnosis is suggested by computed tomography and is usually confirmed by surgical biopsies if necessary. Treatment is generally supportive and based on a few selected drugs, namely, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroids. Surgery is reserved when the diagnosis is unclear, when malignancy is suspected or in the case of severe presentation such as mass effect, bowel obstruction, or ischemic changes. Summary: MP is a rare inflammatory condition of the mesentery often asymptomatic but can cause nonspecific abdominal symptoms. Diagnosis relies on computed tomography imaging, with treatment mainly supportive, utilizing medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroids, while surgery is reserved for severe cases or diagnostic uncertainty. Key Messages: MP causes abdominal pain, and it is mainly diagnosed with CT scan.

3.
Eur J Case Rep Intern Med ; 11(7): 004636, 2024.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38984193

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that causes stiffness and pain in the proximal joints, including the shoulders, hips and neck. The exact cause of polymyalgia rheumatica is yet to be fully understood, but research suggests that both genetic and environmental factors may contribute to it. Studies have previously linked the onset and relapse of polymyalgia rheumatica symptoms to the influenza and COVID-19 vaccines. The Food and Drug Administration approved the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine, which is a recombinant protein vaccine for adults over 60, in May 2023. No previous reports of polymyalgia rheumatica onset or relapse have been linked to the RSV vaccine. The human proteome shares some peptides with the RSV F antigen, suggesting a high risk of cross-reactivity when using that antigen in vaccination formulations. Case description: A 72-year-old man experienced a new onset of bilateral shoulder pain and stiffness three days after receiving the Abrysvo® RSV vaccine. The symptoms lasted more than an hour (up until noon) and interfered with his activities of daily living. Inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein were elevated. The patient's symptoms and inflammatory marker levels significantly improved with prednisone therapy. Conclusion: In patients with typical PMR symptoms, it is important for clinicians to carefully review immunisation history to rule out any potentially related adverse effects. LEARNING POINTS: Vaccines can trigger autoimmune diseases in some individuals.This case report suggests respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine is among the possible triggers for polymyalgia rheumatica.

4.
Microorganisms ; 12(6)2024 Jun 14.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38930582

ABSTRACT

The COVID-19 pandemic underscores the significance of vaccine hesitancy in shaping vaccination outcomes. Understanding the factors underpinning COVID-19 vaccination hesitancy is crucial for tailoring effective vaccination strategies. This cross-sectional study, conducted in three communities across the United States and Lebanon, employed surveys to assess respondents' knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions regarding COVID-19 infection and vaccination. Among the 7196 participants, comprising 6775 from the US and 422 from Lebanon, vaccine hesitancy rates were comparable at 12.2% and 12.8%, respectively. Notably, a substantial proportion of respondents harbored misconceptions, such as attributing the potential to alter DNA (86.4%) or track individuals (92.8%) to COVID-19 vaccines and believing in the virus's artificial origins (81%). US participants had more misconceptions about the COVID-19 vaccine, such as altering DNA or causing infertility. Lebanese participants were more likely to question the origins of the virus and the speed of vaccine development. Additionally, US respondents were less worried about infection, while Lebanese respondents were more indecisive but less likely to outright reject the vaccine. Primary determinants of hesitancy included perceptions that the vaccine poses a greater risk than the infection itself (aOR = 8.7 and 9.4, respectively) and negative recommendations from healthcare providers (aOR = 6.5 and 5.4, respectively). Conversely, positive endorsements from healthcare providers were associated with reduced hesitancy (aOR = 0.02 and 0.4, respectively). Targeting healthcare providers to dispel misinformation and elucidate COVID-19 vaccine risks holds promise for enhancing vaccination uptake.

5.
AMB Express ; 14(1): 71, 2024 Jun 14.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38874807

ABSTRACT

α-Amylase plays a crucial role in the industrial degradation of starch. The genus Jeotgalibacillus of the underexplored marine bacteria family Caryophanaceae has not been investigated in terms of α-amylase production. Herein, we report the comprehensive analysis of an α-amylase (AmyJM) from Jeotgalibacillus malaysiensis D5T (= DSM28777T = KCTC33550T). Protein phylogenetic analysis indicated that AmyJM belongs to glycoside hydrolase family 13 subfamily 5 (GH13_5) and exhibits low sequence identity with known α-amylases, with its closest counterpart being the GH13_5 α-amylase from Bacillus sp. KSM-K38 (51.05% identity). Purified AmyJM (molecular mass of 70 kDa) is stable at a pH range of 5.5-9.0 and optimally active at pH 7.5. The optimum temperature for AmyJM is 40 °C, where the enzyme is reasonably stable at this temperature. Similar to other α-amylases, the presence of CaCl2 enhanced both the activity and stability of AmyJM. AmyJM exhibited activity toward raw and gelatinized forms of starches and related α-glucans, generating a mixture of reducing sugars, such as glucose, maltose, maltotriose, maltotetraose, and maltopentaose. In raw starch hydrolysis, AmyJM exhibited its highest efficiency (51.10% degradation) in hydrolyzing raw wheat starch after 3-h incubation at 40 °C. Under the same conditions, AmyJM also hydrolyzed tapioca, sago, potato, rice, and corn raw starches, yielding 16.01-30.05%. These findings highlight the potential of AmyJM as a biocatalyst for the saccharification of raw starches, particularly those derived from wheat.

6.
BMC Ophthalmol ; 24(1): 265, 2024 Jun 21.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38907228

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a proliferative disorder of the developing retina. Intravitreal bevacizumab injection (IVB) is an emerging treatment for severe forms of ROP, which does not restrict the visual field in comparison to laser therapy. The present study aimed to determine and evaluate the risk factors for ROP recurrence following IVB injection. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this retrospective study, 98 eyes of 49 infants with ROP who had received IVB injections as the primary treatment for type 1 ROP are included. RESULTS: Fifty-four eyes (55.1%) had aggressive retinopathy of prematurity (A-ROP), and forty-four (44.9%) had Stage III Plus ROP in Zone II. ROP recurred in 13 eyes (13.26%) of 8 infants. The mean period between IVB and the ROP recurrence was 8.08 (95% CI:5.32-10.83) weeks. The infants who had ROP recurrence had lower birth weight (P value = 0.002), lower postmenstrual age at IVB injection (P value = 0.001), lower IVB injection gap period from birth (P value = 0.044), higher oxygen therapy requirement rate after IVB injection (P value < 0.001, OR:19.0) and higher oxygen therapy duration (P value = 0.006). The ROP severity, gestational age at birth, and diet were not statistically different between the recurrence and complete regression groups. Out of 13 eyes treated with laser photocoagulation because of ROP relapse, macula dragging occurred in one eye, and all the cases met the complete regression. CONCLUSION: Low birth weight and oxygen therapy are the most important risk factors for ROP relapse, which requires meticulous oxygen treatment guidelines for premature infants.


Subject(s)
Angiogenesis Inhibitors , Bevacizumab , Gestational Age , Intravitreal Injections , Recurrence , Retinopathy of Prematurity , Humans , Retinopathy of Prematurity/drug therapy , Retinopathy of Prematurity/diagnosis , Bevacizumab/administration & dosage , Bevacizumab/therapeutic use , Retrospective Studies , Angiogenesis Inhibitors/administration & dosage , Angiogenesis Inhibitors/therapeutic use , Female , Male , Infant, Newborn , Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A/antagonists & inhibitors , Risk Factors , Infant , Follow-Up Studies , Infant, Premature
7.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38863240

ABSTRACT

The initial assumption that viewed inclusion bodies as a hindrance to the efficient production of protein is no longer held due to the emergence of catalytically active inclusion bodies (CatIBs). Recent studies revealed their potential to be used in free form or immobilized as biocatalysts. The curiosity to acquire suitable catalysts has remained the measure of concern for researchers and industrialists. Numerous processes and production in various sectors of food industries, petroleum, pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and many others are still searching for a robust catalyst with outstanding features such as recyclability, resistance to pH, as well as temperature. CatIBs are forms of inclusion bodies that possess catalytic activity, which can improve catalysis efficiency, stability, and recyclability. One of the advantages of CatIBs is their potential to be used as catalysts for numerous bioprocesses when generated by an enzyme. These aggregates can efficiently be used as a replacement for traditional enzyme immobilization. This review tends to focus on the possibility of its application in various processes. The novelty of this review is that it considered the production of CatIBs both from artificial and natural perspectives, as well as how to improve it. Inclusion bodies' immobilization may provide an efficient alternative in the area of biocatalysis, and hence it will improve industrial sectors and substantially provide a means of achieving excellent performance in the near future.

8.
Int J Biol Macromol ; 271(Pt 1): 132395, 2024 Jun.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38761915

ABSTRACT

In this present study, characteristics and structure-function relationship of an organophosphate-degrading enzyme from Bacillus sp. S3wahi were described. S3wahi metallohydrolase, designated as S3wahi-MH (probable metallohydrolase YqjP), featured the conserved αß/ßα metallo-ß-lactamase-fold (MBL-fold) domain and a zinc bimetal at its catalytic site. The metal binding site of S3wahi-MH also preserves the H-X-H-X-D-H motif, consisting of specific amino acids at Zn1 (Asp69, His70, Asp182, and His230) and Zn2 (His65, His67, and His137). The multifunctionality of S3wahi-MH was demonstrated through a steady-state kinetic study, revealing its highest binding affinity (KM) and catalytic efficiency (kcat/KM) for OP compound, paraoxon, with values of 8.09 × 10-6 M and 4.94 × 105 M-1 s-1, respectively. Using OP compound, paraoxon, as S3wahi-MH native substrate, S3wahi-MH exhibited remarkable stability over a broad temperature range, 20 °C - 60 °C and a broad pH tolerance, pH 6-10. Corresponded to S3wahi-MH thermal stability characterization, the estimated melting temperature (Tm) was found to be 72.12 °C. S3wahi-MH was also characterized with optimum catalytic activity at 30 °C and pH 8. Additionally, the activity of purified S3wahi-MH was greatly enhanced in the presence of 1 mM and 5 mM of manganese (Mn2+), showing relative activities of 1323.68 % and 2073.68 %, respectively. The activity of S3wahi-MH was also enhanced in the presence of DMSO and DMF, showing relative activities of 270.37 % and 307.41 %, respectively. The purified S3wahi-MH retained >60 % residual activity after exposure to non-ionic Tween series surfactants. Nevertheless, the catalytic activity of S3wahi-MH was severely impacted by the treatment of SDS, even at low concentrations. Considering its enzymatic properties and promiscuity, S3wahi-MH emerges as a promising candidate as a bioremediation tool in wide industrial applications, including agriculture industry.


Subject(s)
Bacillus , beta-Lactamases , Bacillus/enzymology , beta-Lactamases/chemistry , beta-Lactamases/metabolism , Kinetics , Substrate Specificity , Enzyme Stability , Hydrogen-Ion Concentration , Catalytic Domain , Amino Acid Sequence , Organophosphates/metabolism , Organophosphates/chemistry , Bacterial Proteins/chemistry , Bacterial Proteins/metabolism , Temperature
9.
Heliyon ; 10(9): e30048, 2024 May 15.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38726191

ABSTRACT

The identification of accounting fraud is an important measure to safeguard the interests of stakeholders and ensure the long-term development of the company. The current traditional methods for identifying accounting fraud rely on manual review and judgment, lacking objectivity and accuracy. In order to improve the accuracy of accounting fraud identification, improve identification efficiency and objectivity, this article combines smart city information technology to conduct in-depth research on data mining algorithms for accounting fraud identification. This article first provides a brief overview of smart cities and information technology, then introduces the basic theory of accounting fraud identification, and finally implements accounting fraud identification through k-means clustering mining algorithm. The data is divided into k clusters, and abnormal clusters are identified by checking the characteristics and attributes of each cluster. Compared with traditional rule-based and pattern based methods, this approach can more flexibly adapt to different types and forms of fraud, and can discover unknown patterns of fraud. In the experiment, this article used electronic data collection, analysis, and retrieval systems on the websites of the Shanghai Stock Exchange and Shenzhen Stock Exchange to collect 641 annual reports and financial characteristics from 62 listed companies that engaged in financial statement fraud and 84 companies that were not reported to have financial statement fraud from 2012 to 2021 as test samples. The results were tested and analyzed from several aspects, including the number of misjudgments, misjudgment rate, and ROC curve. The final test results show that compared to traditional accounting fraud identification methods, the comprehensive misjudgment rate of data mining algorithms based on smart cities has decreased by 3 %. The conclusion indicates that data mining algorithms used in smart city information technology to identify accounting fraud can help improve the accuracy of accounting fraud, improve audit objectivity and effectiveness.

10.
J Infect Dev Ctries ; 18(4): 565-570, 2024 Apr 30.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38728630

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection has long been recognized as an important viral syndrome in the immunocompromised host. The disease is less well described in critically-ill patients. We evaluated the risk factors for the development of CMV infection in patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). We also compared the outcomes of CMV infection in ICU patients to those of patients with hematological malignancies. METHODOLOGY: This is a retrospective study composed of three arms: patients admitted to the ICU with infection (ICU + / CMV + arm), patients admitted to the ICU who did not develop CMV infection (ICU + / CMV- arm, and patients with hematological malignancies on the hematology ward without CMV infection (ICU - / CMV + arm). RESULTS: Patients who were admitted to ICU for surgical causes had a decreased risk of CMV infection. On the other hand, receiving corticosteroids and vasoactive drugs was associated with an increased risk of CMV infection with adjusted odds ratios (aOR) of 2.4 and 25.3, respectively. Mortality was higher in ICU + / CMV + patients compared to ICU - / CMV + patients. In the ICU + /CMV + population, male sex and being on mechanical ventilation after CMV infection were independent predictors of mortality (aOR 4.6 and 5.0, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: CMV infection in ICU patients is a potentially serious disease requiring close attention. The findings from our study help in identifying patients in the ICU at risk for CMV infection, thereby warranting frequent screening. Patients at high risk of death (male, on mechanical ventilation) should receive prompt treatment and intensive follow-up.


Subject(s)
Cytomegalovirus Infections , Intensive Care Units , Humans , Cytomegalovirus Infections/complications , Cytomegalovirus Infections/epidemiology , Male , Retrospective Studies , Female , Risk Factors , Middle Aged , Aged , Adult , Critical Illness
11.
Reprod Health ; 21(1): 59, 2024 May 01.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38693529

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The maternal role is one of the most challenging yet rewarding roles that women experience in their lives. It begins when a woman becomes pregnant, and as the pregnancy progresses, she prepares to fulfill her role as a mother. A woman's health plays a crucial role in her ability to fulfill the maternal role. Multiple sclerosis (MS), as an autoimmune disease, presents unique challenges in achieving this role. Failing to fulfill the maternal role can have lasting consequences for both the mother and the baby. Given the increasing number of women with MS of reproductive age in Iran and the absence of specific programs for this group during pregnancy and postpartum, researchers have decided to develop a supportive program by exploring the meaning of the maternal role and identifying the needs of these women during this period. METHODS/MATERIALS: This study will be conducted in 3 stages. The first stage involves a qualitative study to explore the meaning of the "maternal role" in women with MS through a descriptive and interpretive phenomenological approach based on Van Manen's method. Data will be collected through semi-structured interviews with pregnant women with MS and mothers with MS who have children under one-year-old, recruited from the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Mashhad, Iran. The second stage will involve designing a support program based on the findings of the phenomenological study, literature review, and exploratory interviews. A logical model will guide the development of the program, and validation will be conducted using the nominal group technique. DISCUSSION: This study is the first of its kind in Iran to explore the meaning of the maternal role and develop a support program for women with MS. It is hoped that the results of this study will help address the challenges of motherhood faced by these women.


The maternal role is considered one of the most significant roles a woman will undertake in her lifetime. It is a process in which a woman, as a mother, attains competency in her role and eventually becomes comfortable with her identity as a mother. However, there are various factors, such as diseases, that can impede a mother from fully embracing her role. Multiple sclerosis (MS), an autoimmune disease that predominantly affects women of reproductive age, is one such condition.Given the lack of research in Iran regarding the experiences of women with MS in their maternal role, a study was developed in three phases. The first phase involves interviewing pregnant women with MS and mothers with MS who have children under one-year-old to explore the meaning of the maternal role. In the second phase, utilizing the findings from the initial interviews and the experts' opinions, a support program will be created to assist women with MS during pregnancy and after giving birth, and in the last stage, this program will be evaluated by nominal group technique.


Subject(s)
Multiple Sclerosis , Humans , Female , Multiple Sclerosis/psychology , Pregnancy , Iran , Qualitative Research , Adult , Mothers/psychology , Pregnancy Complications/psychology , Social Support
12.
Anal Chim Acta ; 1309: 342573, 2024 Jun 22.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38772651

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Double emulsions (DEs) have attracted researchers' attention to be utilized as a promising platform in biomedical and chemical applications. Several actuation mechanisms have been proposed for the generation of DEs. The conventional DE formation approaches (e.g. two-stage emulsification) suffer from low monodispersity. The electric actuation (i.e. coaxial electrospray technology) has been demonstrated as a controllable method for the DE formation, while the capability of magnetic actuation has not been studied yet. RESULT: In the present study, the generation of ferrofluid double emulsions (FDEs), made from water-based ferrofluid as a core and oil as a shell, under the magnetic actuation of a permanent magnet with a steady magnetic field and an electromagnet with DC and pulse width modulation (PWM) magnetic fields was investigated with a simple controllable setup fabricated using 3D printing. The effect of various parameters affecting the FDE formation, such as the fluid flow rates, the magnetic field type, the magnetic flux density, and the PWM frequency and duty cycle, on the FDE formation characteristics, including the inner and outer equivalent diameters, and the formation frequency was studied. Under the steady magnetic field, two regimes of the FDE formation were identified: inertia-dominated and magnet-dominated. SIGNIFICANCE: Wireless power-free magnetic actuation provides better control over the FDE formation, enhancing this process by increasing the FDE formation frequency with high monodispersity. The PWM magnetic field offers excellent controllability over the FDE formation with low-volume or no, in some cases, satellite droplets by tuning the PWM frequency and the duty cycle.

13.
BMJ Open ; 14(5): e082385, 2024 May 03.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38702080

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study is a descriptive presentation of cases of acute watery diarrhoea (AWD) that were presented to Aleppo University Hospital (AUH) during the recent cholera outbreak in Syria. DESIGN: Prospective, observational, cohort study. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS: A total of 1061 patients with AWD were admitted to AUH during the timeframe of 20 September 2022 to 20 October 2022. The data collection was done through a structured questionnaire. This includes comprehensive clinical observation, laboratory analyses, therapeutic interventions and holistic case evaluations. RESULTS: The analysis has revealed notable insights: a predominant proportion of patients (58.6%) were residents from urban areas and 40.3% were residents from rural areas. Intriguingly, a diverse range of potential infection sources emerged from patient data within our hospital, including uncontrolled well water, vegetables and faecal-oral transmission through contaminated street/fast food. At discharge, most patients were in good health (79.7%), followed by moderate health (17.6%) and poor health (2.3%), with a minimal percentage dying before discharge (0.4%). The most common complications reported at admission and during hospitalisation included electrolyte imbalance (28.2%), followed by severe dehydration (16.3%). In the follow-up period, the majority of patients exhibited good health (81.0%). Older patients (>60 years) had poorer outcomes, with 8.4% having poor health and 4.2% death rate. CONCLUSIONS: The study found results consistent with previous AWD outbreaks in developing countries like Yemen, Nigeria and Lebanon. Preventative measures like improving water sanitation and hygiene practices are essential to prevent future outbreaks and ease the strain on healthcare systems. Therefore, future studies must investigate the risk factors that increase the spread and the severity of the disease and investigate the best management method.


Subject(s)
Cholera , Diarrhea , Disease Outbreaks , Humans , Cholera/epidemiology , Cholera/therapy , Male , Female , Adult , Prospective Studies , Syria/epidemiology , Adolescent , Diarrhea/epidemiology , Diarrhea/microbiology , Young Adult , Middle Aged , Child , Child, Preschool , Infant , Acute Disease , Aged
14.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38624155

ABSTRACT

The novel 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl (TEMPO) groups immobilized on functional polymers or nanoparticles emerged as potential Pickering interfacial catalysts (PICs) for effective catalysis in biphasic systems. In this study, a snowman-shaped Janus-structured polymer with TEMPO-anchored nanohybrid particles (SM-JPP-TEMPO) was prepared and employed as a potential PIC in the Anelli-Montanari system for the selective oxidation of alcohol. The amphiphilic character of SM-JPP-TEMPO particles plays a dual role as an emulsifier and catalyst in the Pickering emulsion. As a result, it enables smaller droplets (102 µm) at the water-in-oil (W/O) interface and reduces the interfacial tension from 26.58 to 17.38 mN/m, which improves the stability of the Pickering emulsion system. This constructed Pickering emulsion microreactor offers a larger interface contact area and shortens the mass transfer distance of the substrate of cinnamyl alcohol, which significantly enhances the catalytic conversion at the Anelli-Montanari oxidation system, thus achieving remarkable conversion efficiency of (92.3%) with excellent selectivity (99%) in static (stirring-free) condition. It was found that the Janus nanohybrid catalyst (SM-JPP-TEMPO) enhanced 1.29-fold catalytic efficiency compared to the TEMPO grafted spherical polystyrene nanoparticle (PS-NPs-TEMPO) catalyst (72%). Moreover, after seven consecutive cycles, the Janus nanocatalyst (SM-JPP-TEMPO) maintained the conversion significantly. Hence, these results collectively highlight that the amphiphilic SM-JPP-TEMPO catalyst provides an efficient and eco-friendly strategy for the intensification of liquid-liquid biphasic reaction systems for potential applications in industries.

15.
Heliyon ; 10(7): e28961, 2024 Apr 15.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38596043

ABSTRACT

The application of Scirpus grossus (SG) fiber as a sound absorber is important to reduce the level of noise affected the physical and mental wellbeing of people. The sound absorption coefficient (SAC) and noise reduction coefficient (NRC) of the SG specimen were evaluated based on a typical model-based design using the data analysis with MATLAB. The results showed that SG specimen with a thickness of 20 mm coated with the perforated aluminum sheet (PAS) compared to that without coating can improve the capability of sound absorption by 14% at the frequency of 4000 Hz. SG specimen coated with PAS that has a NRC value of 0.39 can absorb 39% of sound and thus reflects 61% of sound wave while SG specimen without coating that has a NRC value of 0.23 absorbs 23% of sound and can reflect 77% of sound wave. The sound absorption class of D for SG specimen coated with PAS should be better that of E for SG specimen without coating, which permits us to get better understanding on the applications of SG fiber as a sound adsorber in the future.

16.
Case Rep Womens Health ; 42: e00604, 2024 Jun.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38646502

ABSTRACT

Cotyledonoid dissecting leiomyoma (CDL) is a rare uterine tumor with unique clinical and histological features. We present a case of a 46-year-old woman with a 3-month history of left-flank pain radiating to the back. The patient had a history of infertility and a previous miscarriage. Ultrasound revealed a solid tissue mass suggestive of a degenerated fibroid. Laparoscopy identified subserosal leiomyoma and leiomyoma in the broad ligament. Histologically, CDL is characterized by disorganized smooth muscle with hyaline degeneration and no evidence of malignancy. Clinically, CDL can present with a variety of symptoms, including heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and infertility. The coexistence of CDL and adenomyosis is exceedingly rare. This case highlights the importance of considering CDL in the differential diagnosis of pelvic mass, malignant neoplasms, and infertility, even with atypical symptoms. It also emphasizes the value of cooperation between clinicians and pathologists for accurate diagnosis and management of CDL. Adenomyosis in this case further complicated the diagnosis and highlighted the need for an index of suspicion for this rare condition.

17.
Int J Surg Case Rep ; 118: 109613, 2024 May.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38608520

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: Obesity is a global epidemic, and bariatric surgery is an effective treatment. During this surgery, rare abnormalities in the small intestine, like ectopic pancreas (EP), can be found. CASE PRESENTATION: A 16-year-old male presented at the surgical clinic with a complaint of morbid obesity, weighing 140 KG. Since he was unable to commit to a diet, bariatric surgery was performed. During the surgery, the gastrointestinal tract was examined, and an incidental finding was noted in the wall of the proximal jejunum. The histopathology report revealed that the excisional biopsy was a complete EP in the proximal jejunum. The patient was discharged from the hospital on the first postoperative day, and his condition remained stable. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: Our case of EP stood out due to its larger size, measuring 3.5 cm in diameter, while EP lesions are typically smaller, despite its size, the patient did not experience any symptoms. EP is more commonly found in individuals between 40 and 50 years old, with a higher incidence in males. However, our patient is only 16 years old. CONCLUSION: Surgical resection is the most effective treatment, preventing malignant transformation and future complications. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first documented case of incidentally detected heterotopic pancreatic tissue in jejunum during a bariatric procedure in Syria, and it is also the fourth case in the medical literature.

18.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38553905

ABSTRACT

Glycoprotein 41 (gp41) of the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) protein plays a critical role in membrane fusion. Gp41 binds to proteins in the plasma membrane of CD4+ T cells, particularly the T-cell antigen receptor (TCR). These findings indicate that gp41 is involved in the assembly of HIV-1 at the plasma membrane of T cells and affects the stimulation of the TCR. To control HIV-1, new inhibitors were introduced to target the gp41 protein. However, mutations in this region might reduce their efficacy. The Gp41 region was amplified from the sera of 30 patients using nested polymerase chain reaction. The sequences were analyzed by bioinformatics tools to identify mutations and gp41 structural features. Subtyping and the interaction between fusion inhibitors and gp41 proteins were also examined. As the first report from Iran, docking analysis between fusion inhibitors and Iranian gp41 proteins showed that mutations in gp41 could not reduce the efficacy of the fusion inhibitors. Most of the patients were infected with CRF35-AD. Several post-modification positions, including glycosylation and phosphorylation sites, were identified in the gp41 protein. Our findings revealed no known multinational drug resistance to gp41 inhibitors; thus, fusion inhibitors can effectively inhibit HIV in Iranian patients. In addition, the present study introduced a new gp41 region (36-44 aa), which considerably influences the interactions between gp41 inhibitors and the gp41 protein. This region may play a pivotal role in suppressing gp41 inhibitors in CFR35-AD. Furthermore, gp41 can be considered a good target for subtyping analysis via the phylogenetic method.

19.
Environ Sci Pollut Res Int ; 31(17): 25849-25866, 2024 Apr.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38488921

ABSTRACT

In this study, pentaazatetraethylene-modified sulfonated polyacrylamide (PAm-SO3-N5) was synthesized and used as a novel efficient adsorbent to remove calmagite from aqueous media. To this end, a central composite design (CCD) was applied to reduce the number of reaction variables (i.e., adsorbent concentration, temperature, initial concentration, and pH) on calmagite removal. The results showed that calmagite was entirely adsorbed by the PAm-SO3-N5 within 30 min. In addition, a pseudo-second-order (PSO) model was prepared as the optimum formula to fit the kinetics information. The modeling results revealed that film diffusion and adsorption are rate-limiting stages to remove the dyes. Using a Langmuir isotherm to fit the equilibrium data, the highest equilibrium adsorption was calculated to be 1732.5 mg/g. In the present study, the ΔH value indicates that the adsorption is of chemical type. Also, the negative sign of ΔS° shows that PAm-SO3-N5 removes calmagite during a relatively stable process with randomness in the system. The increase in ΔG° values with increasing temperature indicates a descending trend in the feasibility degree of calmagite adsorption. Eventually, recycling the adsorbent for 7 cycles to adsorb calmagite dye showed no remarkable activity loss.


Subject(s)
Acrylic Resins , Azo Compounds , Coloring Agents , Water Pollutants, Chemical , Thermodynamics , Adsorption , Water Pollutants, Chemical/analysis , Kinetics , Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
20.
Geriatr Gerontol Int ; 24(3): 251-262, 2024 Mar.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38329011

ABSTRACT

The adoption of information and communication technology (ICT) by older adults with cognitive frailty and impairment is beneficial to support aging in place and promote healthy aging. However, data are scarce regarding the use of ICT by this demographic in comparison with other age groups. This bibliometric analysis was aimed at systematically mapping the literature on ICT-related research on older adults with cognitive frailty and cognitive impairment to provide insights into research trends, patterns and knowledge gaps. Data were extracted from the Web of Science database, which identified 324 publications between 1980 and 2023. Performance analysis and science mapping were carried out using Microsoft® Excel, VOSViewer and Harzing's Publish or Perish. The analysis showed an upsurge in the research output trend over time. Notable journals, authors, citations, nations and research areas have been documented. Four key clusters were identified, including: (i) caregiver concern, support and involvement; (ii) technology as a tool for cognitive training and cognitive rehabilitation; (iii) cognitive improvement; and (iv) the use of technology for prevention and self-management. The findings derived from this analysis provide an appropriate reference for future researchers to bridge the gap in ICT-related studies among this population, and distinguish the relevant articles that are required for further investigation. These include the need for further long-term research, the incorporation of ICT-based approaches to counter cognitive frailty and the importance of multidomain telehealth interventions. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 251-262.


Subject(s)
Frailty , Aged , Humans , Independent Living , Communication , Technology , Bibliometrics , Cognition
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