The slurry settling characteristics are the most important to design a thickener in process industries. In this work, the iron ore slurry from the screw classifier overflow was used for the settling study. It was obse...The slurry settling characteristics are the most important to design a thickener in process industries. In this work, the iron ore slurry from the screw classifier overflow was used for the settling study. It was observed that the original slurry exhibited a low settling velocity and a turbid supernatant during the settling process. Commercial flocculating agents with anionic, cationic, and nonionic characters were used to improve the settling behavior of suspensions, which were added into the slurry at different ranges of slurry pH values, respectively. The settling results show that the use of flocculants increase the settling rate by several times. Compared with the cationic and non-ionic flocculants, the anionic flocculant is more effective in enhancing the slurry settling rate. The small dose of the anionic flocculant is found to be more effective, but the other flocculants are less effective even at higher dosages. The simulation of an industrial thickener was carried out based on the laboratory settling data, and the appropriate design and selection parameters of the industrial thickener were estimated.展开更多
Pancreatitis is inflammation of pancreas and caused by a number of factors including pancreatic duct obstruction, alcoholism, and mutation in the cationic trypsinogen gene. Pancreatitis is represented as acute pancrea...Pancreatitis is inflammation of pancreas and caused by a number of factors including pancreatic duct obstruction, alcoholism, and mutation in the cationic trypsinogen gene. Pancreatitis is represented as acute pancreatitis with acute inflammatory responses and; chronic pan-creatitis characterized by marked stroma formation with a high number of infiltrating granulocytes(such as neutrophils, eosinophils), monocytes, macrophages and pancreatic stellate cells(PSCs). These inflammatory cells are known to play a central role in initiating and promoting inflammation including pancreatic fibrosis, i.e., a major risk factor for pancreatic cancer. A number of inflammatory cytokines are known to involve in pro-moting pancreatic pathogenesis that lead pancreatic fibrosis. Pancreatic fibrosis is a dynamic phenomenon that requires an intricate network of several autocrine and paracrine signaling pathways. In this review, we have provided the details of various cytokines and molecular mechanistic pathways(i.e., Transforming growth factor-β/SMAD, mitogen--activated protein kinases, Rho kinase, Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators, and phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase) that have a critical role in the activation of PSCs to promote chronic pancreatitis and trigger the phenomenon of pancreatic fibrogenesis. In this review of literature, we discuss the involvement of several pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as in interleukin(IL)-1, IL-1β, IL-6, IL--8 IL-10, IL-18, IL--33 and tumor necrosis factor-α, in the pathogenesis of disease. Our review also highlights the significance of several experimental animal models that have an important role in dissecting the mechanistic pathways operating in the development of chronic pancreatitis, including pancreatic fibrosis. Additionally, we provided several intermediary molecules that are involved in major signaling pathways that might provide target molecules for future therapeutic treatment strategies for pancreatic pathogenesis.展开更多
Magnesium is one of the largely available elements in the earth’s crust. It has a low structural density with high specific strength. This unique material property has forced an increase in the use of magnesium and i...Magnesium is one of the largely available elements in the earth’s crust. It has a low structural density with high specific strength. This unique material property has forced an increase in the use of magnesium and its alloys in various applications pertaining to industrial sector,automobiles, aerospace and biomedical. Since magnesium is a highly reactive metal, it is prone to higher rate of corrosion as compared to its counterparts. Thus, it is essential to analyze the corrosion behavior of magnesium and its alloys in its applications. An appropriate process is to be followed in the design and development of magnesium alloys which overcome the limitations of magnesium and enhance the desired material properties in accordance to their applications. This review paper summarizes the importance of magnesium and its material properties. The influence of various alloying elements on the mechanical properties of magnesium is reviewed. The broad classification of Mg alloys and their behavioral trends are detailed. The corrosion behavior of magnesium and the influence of corrosion products on the material characteristics of magnesium, in aqueous medium, are discussed. The manufacturing techniques of magnesium alloys along with the secondary techniques are also covered. The various applications and the limitations of magnesium in these applications are covered. A complete section is dedicated towards detailing the recent trends of magnesium(Mg) alloys, i.e., the biodegradable nature and applications of Mg alloys. The influence of biocorrosion on Mg alloys and techniques to overcome it have been deliberated. This paper provides a thorough review on recent developments of magnesium with respect to engineering applications.展开更多
AIM:To evaluate the role of dietary supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids in dry eye syndrome.METHODS:A prospective,interventional,placebo controlled,double blind randomized trial was done at two referral eye centers...AIM:To evaluate the role of dietary supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids in dry eye syndrome.METHODS:A prospective,interventional,placebo controlled,double blind randomized trial was done at two referral eye centers.Two hundred and sixty-four eyes of patients with dry eye were randomized to receive one capsule(500mg)two times a day containing 325mg EPA and 175mg DHA for 3 months(omega-3 group).The omega-3 group was compared to a group of patients(n=254)who received a placebo(placebo group).There were 4 patient visits(at baseline,1 month,2 months and3 months).On each visit,recording of corrected distance visual acuity(CDVA),slit lamp examination and questionnaire based symptom evaluation and scoring was done.A symptomatic score of 0-6 was mild,6.1-12moderate and 12.1-18 severe dry eye.Response to intervention was monitored by routine tear function tests like Schirmer I test,tear film break-up time(TBUT),Rose Bengal staining and most notably,conjunctival impression cytology.RESULTS:Sixty-five percent of patients in the omega-3group and 33%of patients in placebo group had significant improvement in symptoms at 3 months(P=0.005).There was a significant change in both Schirmer’s test value and TBUT values in the omega-3group(P【0.001),both comparisons.However,there was a larger drift in TBUT values in omega-3 than the placebo group,in comparison to Schirmer’s test values.The mean TBUT score was 2.54±2.34 in the omega-3group and 0.13±0.16 in placebo group,respectively.The mean reduction in symptom score in omega-3 group was 2.02±0.96 as compared to 0.48±0.22 in placebogroup(P【0.001).Despite a slight increase mean score,the Schirmer scores did not correlate well with symptomatic improvement.CONCLUSION:Omega-3 fatty acids have a definite role for dry eye syndrome.The benefit seems to be more marked in conditions such as blepharitis and meibomian gland disease.The role of omega fatty acids in tear production and secretion needs further evaluation.展开更多
Objective:To investigate the antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemie properties of hydroalcoholic extract of fruits of Sapindus mukorossi Caerlen and its beneficial effect on haeniatological parameters with histopath...Objective:To investigate the antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemie properties of hydroalcoholic extract of fruits of Sapindus mukorossi Caerlen and its beneficial effect on haeniatological parameters with histopathological analysis in streptpzotocin induced diabetic rats.Methods:Sapindus mukorossi fruits extract(250 and 500 mg/kg body weight) and standard drug glybenclamide(0.5 mg/kg body weight) were administered to diabetic rats.Effect of extract on hyperglycemia,hyperlipidemia and hematological parameters was studied in diabetic rats.Histopathological changes in diabetic rat pancreas were also observed after extract and glybenclamide treatment.Results:Daily oral administration of Sapindus mukorossi fruits extract(250 and 500 mg/kg body weight) and glybenclamide for 20 days showed beneficial effects on blood glucose level(P【0.01) and lipid level.The extract has a favorable effect on the histopathological changes of the pancreas in streptozotocin induced diabetes.Conclusions: These findings reveal that the hydroalcoholic extract of Sapindus mukorossi fruits extract possesses antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemie properties.In addition.the extract can prevent various complications of diabetes and improve some haeniatological parameters.展开更多
Dietary fiber(DF)was considered an antinutritional factor due to its adverse effects on feed intake and nutrient digestibility.However,with increasing evidence,scientists have found that DF has enormous impacts on the...Dietary fiber(DF)was considered an antinutritional factor due to its adverse effects on feed intake and nutrient digestibility.However,with increasing evidence,scientists have found that DF has enormous impacts on the gastrointestinal tract(GIT)development,digestive physiology,including nutrient digestion,fermentation,and absorption processes of poultry.It may help maintain the small and large intestine’s integrity by strengthening mucosal structure and functions and increasing the population and diversity of commensal bacteria in the GIT.Increasing DF content benefits digestive physiology by stimulating GIT development and enzyme production.And the inclusion of fiber at a moderate level in diets also alters poultry growth performance.It improves gut health by modulating beneficial microbiota in the large intestine and enhancing immune functions.However,determining the source,type,form,and level of DF inclusion is of utmost importance to achieve the above-noted benefits.This paper critically reviews the available information on dietary fibers used in poultry and their effects on nutrient utilization,GIT development,gut health,and poultry performance.Understanding these functions will help develop nutrition programs using proper DF at an appropriate inclusion level that will ultimately lead to enhanced DF utilization,overall health,and improved poultry growth performance.Thus,this review will help researchers and industry identify the sources,type,form,and amount of DF to be used in poultry nutrition for healthy,costeffective,and eco-friendly poultry production.展开更多
Diabetes has become the epidemic of the 21 st century, and with over 90% patients with diabetes becoming at a risk of developing retinopathy, diabetic retinopathy has emerged as a major public health concern. In spite...Diabetes has become the epidemic of the 21 st century, and with over 90% patients with diabetes becoming at a risk of developing retinopathy, diabetic retinopathy has emerged as a major public health concern. In spite of cutting edge research in the field, how retina and its vasculature are damaged by the diabetic milieu remains ambiguous. The environmental factors, life style or disease process can also bring in modifications in the DNA, and these epigenetic modifications either silence or activate a gene without altering the DNA sequence. Diabetic environment up- or downregulates a number of genes in the retina, and emerging research has shown that it also facilitates epigenetic modifications. In the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy, the genes associated with important enzymes(e.g., mitochondrial superoxide dismutase, matrix metalloproteinase-9 and thioredoxin interacting protein) and transcriptional factors are epigenetically modified, the enzymes responsible for these epigenetic modifications are either activated or inhibited, and the levels of micro RNAs are altered. With epigenetic modifications taking an important place in diabetic retinopathy, it is now becoming critical to evaluate these modifications, and understand their impact on this slow progressing blinding disease.展开更多
In this paper we present the current capabilities for numerical weather prediction of precipitation over China using a suite of ten multimodels and our superensemble based forecasts. Our suite of models includes the o...In this paper we present the current capabilities for numerical weather prediction of precipitation over China using a suite of ten multimodels and our superensemble based forecasts. Our suite of models includes the operational suite selected by NCARs TIGGE archives for the THORPEX Program. These are： ECMWF, UKMO, JMA, NCEP, CMA, CMC, BOM, MF, KMA and the CPTEC models. The superensemble strategy includes a training and a forecasts phase, for these the periods chosen for this study include the months February through September for the years 2007 and 2008. This paper addresses precipitation forecasts for the medium range i.e. Days 1 to 3 and extending out to Day 10 of forecasts using this suite of global models. For training and forecasts validations we have made use of an advanced TRMM satellite based rainfall product. We make use of standard metrics for forecast validations that include the RMS errors, spatial correlations and the equitable threat scores. The results of skill forecasts of precipitation clearly demonstrate that it is possible to obtain higher skills for precipitation forecasts for Days 1 through 3 of forecasts from the use of the multimodel superensemble as compared to the best model of this suite. Between Days 4 to 10 it is possible to have very high skills from the multimodel superensemble for the RMS error of precipitation. Those skills are shown for a global belt and especially over China. Phenomenologically this product was also found very useful for precipitation forecasts for the Onset of the South China Sea monsoon, the life cycle of the mei-yu rains and post typhoon landfall heavy rains and flood events. The higher skills of the multimodel superensemble make it a very useful product for such real time events.展开更多
Objective:To evaluate the cytotoxicity and hepatoprotective potentials of extracts,fractions or isolated compound from the leaves of Feronia limonia(F.limonia).Methods:Qualitative phytochemical analysis of extracts,fr...Objective:To evaluate the cytotoxicity and hepatoprotective potentials of extracts,fractions or isolated compound from the leaves of Feronia limonia(F.limonia).Methods:Qualitative phytochemical analysis of extracts,fractions or compound was performed by means of thin layer chromatography and spectroscopic assays.The%purity of compound was measured by analytical HPLC.Extracts,fractions or compound have been individually evaluated for their cytotoxicity effects(10,20,100,250,500,750 and 1 000 μg/mL).Based on the inhibitory concentration(IC_(50)) obtained from the cell viability assay,graded concentrations of extracts,fractions or isolated compound were assessed(10,20,50,100,200 μg/mL) for its hepatoprotective potential against CCl_4-induced hepatotoxicity by monitoring activity levels of serum glutamatic pyruvatic transaminase(SGPT) and serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase(SGOT).Results:Results indicated that the methanol extract of F.limonia was non-toxic and hepatoprotective in nature as compared with the petroleum ether extract.The acetone fraction of methanolic extract also showed similar properties but the subsequent two fractions were cytotoxic.However,the pure compound isolated from the penultimate fraction of methanolic extract was non-toxic and hepatoprotective in nature.Biochemical investigations(SCOT,SCPT) further corroborated these cytological observations.Conclusions:It can be concluded from this study that F.limonia methanol extract,some fractions and pure isolated compound herein exhibit hepatoprotective activity.However,cytotoxicity recorded in the penultimate fraction and investigation of structural details of pure compound warrants further study.展开更多
Background: The scarcity of early biomarkers for acute renal failure has hindered our ability to launch preventive and therapeutic measures for this disorder in a timely manner. We tested the hypothesis that neutrophi...Background: The scarcity of early biomarkers for acute renal failure has hindered our ability to launch preventive and therapeutic measures for this disorder in a timely manner. We tested the hypothesis that neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin(NGAL) is an early biomarker for ischaemic renal injury after cardiopulmonary bypass. Methods: We studied 71 children undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass. Serial urine and blood samples were analysed by western blots and ELISA for NGAL expression. The primary outcome measure was acute renal injury, defined as a 50%increase in serum creatinine from baseline. Findings: 20 children(28%) developed acute renal injury, but diagnosis with serum creatinine was only possible 1-3 days after cardiopulmonary bypass. By contrast, urine concentrations of NGAL rose from a mean of 1.6 μg/L(SE 0.3) at baseline to 147 μg/L(23) 2 h after cardiopulmonary bypass, and the amount in serum increased from a mean of 3.2 μg/L(SE 0.5) at baseline to 61 μg/L(10) 2 h after the procedure. Univariate analysis showed a significant correlation between acute renal injury and the following: urine and serum concentrations of NGAL at 2 h, and cardiopulmonary bypass time. By multivariate analysis, the amount of NGAL in urine at 2 h after cardiopulmonary bypass was the most powerful independent predictor of acute renal injury. For concentration in urine of NGAL at 2 h, the area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve was 0.998, sensitivity was 1.00, and specificity was 0.98 for a cutoff value of 50 μg/L. Interpretation: Concentrations in urine and serum of NGAL represent sensitive, specific, and highly predictive early biomarkers for acute renal injury after cardiac surgery.展开更多
Pyrolysis and combustion characteristics of three different oil cakes such as Pongamia(Pongamia Pinnata),Madhuca(Madhuca Indica),and Jatropha(Jatropha curcas) were investigated in this study.The cellulose and lignin c...Pyrolysis and combustion characteristics of three different oil cakes such as Pongamia(Pongamia Pinnata),Madhuca(Madhuca Indica),and Jatropha(Jatropha curcas) were investigated in this study.The cellulose and lignin contents of oil cakes play very important role in pyrolysis and combustion processes.A kinetic investigation of three oil cakes was carried out and major part of the samples decomposed between 210℃ and 500℃.Pyrolysis and combustion were carried out with the mixtures of cellulose and lignin chemicals in different ratios and compared with the oil cakes.The biomass with higher cellulose content showed faster rate of pyrolysis than the biomass with higher lignin content.However at higher temperatures(>600℃) all the oil cakes exhibited similar conversion at low heating rate in N2 atmosphere.Apparent activation energies increased for Madhuca and Pongamia oil cakes indicating the presence of more cellulose whereas,low activation energy of Jatropha confirms more lignin content.展开更多
In the current study,the calcium copper titanate(CCTO)/epoxy,barium titanate(BT)/epoxy and CCTO-BT/epoxy composite samples with variable volume fractions of CCTO and BT are fabricated using hand lay-up and compression...In the current study,the calcium copper titanate(CCTO)/epoxy,barium titanate(BT)/epoxy and CCTO-BT/epoxy composite samples with variable volume fractions of CCTO and BT are fabricated using hand lay-up and compression moulding process. The composite samples are characterized for the frequency dependence on dielectric properties,conductivity,impedance spectroscopy and electrical modulus.X-ray diffraction(XRD)representation of CCTO-BT/epoxy composite samples confirmed the presence of both CCTO and BT ceramic samples separately. The dielectric characteristics of hybrid CCTO-BT/epoxy composite samples with CCTO∶BT ratio of 40∶60, 60∶40,and 50∶50 was found relatively better than those of single ceramic filler reinforced epoxy composites. AC conductivity analysis shows improvement in the results of hybrid filler-filled CCTO-BT/epoxy composites in comparison with single filler-filled epoxy composite.50∶50 CCTO-BT/epoxy composite shows the best AC conductivity value of~ 2.2 ×10^(-5) ohm^(-1)·m^(-1) at a higher frequency of 1MHz. The impedance analysis confirms the higher insulating properties for hybrid 40∶60 and 60∶40 CCTO-BT/epoxy composites with respect to the single and other hybrid ceramic epoxy composites. The analysis suggests the hybrid CCTO-BT/epoxy composites to be adopted as a potential dielectric material for energy storage devices and other electronic applications.展开更多
Cancer is an abnormal state of cells where they undergo uncontrolled proliferation and produce aggressive malignancies that causes millions of deaths every year.With the new understanding of the molecular mechanism(s)...Cancer is an abnormal state of cells where they undergo uncontrolled proliferation and produce aggressive malignancies that causes millions of deaths every year.With the new understanding of the molecular mechanism(s)of disease progression,our knowledge about the disease is snowballing,leading to the evolution of many new therapeutic regimes and their successive trials.In the past few decades,various combinations of therapies have been pro-posed and are presently employed in the treatment of diverse cancers.Targeted drug therapy,immunotherapy,and personalized medicines are now largely being employed,which were not common a few years back.The field of cancer discoveries and therapeutics are evolving fast as cancer type-specific biomarkers are progressively being identified and several types of cancers are nowadays undergoing systematic therapies,extending patients’disease-free survival thereafter.Although growing evidence shows that a systematic and targeted approach could be the future of cancer medicine,chemotherapy remains a largely opted therapeutic option despite its known side effects on the patient’s physical and psychological health.Chemother-apeutic agents/pharmaceuticals served a great purpose over the past few decades and have remained the frontline choice for advanced-stage malignancies where surgery and/or radiation therapy cannot be prescribed due to specific reasons.The present report succinctly reviews the existing and contemporary advancements in chemotherapy and assesses the status of the enrolled drugs/pharmaceuticals;it also comprehensively discusses the emerging role of specific/targeted therapeutic strategies that are presently being employed to achieve better clinical success/survival rate in cancer patients.展开更多
Phytoremediation is a promising approach for reclamation of salt-affected soil.Phytoextraction is the most commonly used process,which exploits plants to absorb,immobilize,and accumulate salt in their shoots.In this s...Phytoremediation is a promising approach for reclamation of salt-affected soil.Phytoextraction is the most commonly used process,which exploits plants to absorb,immobilize,and accumulate salt in their shoots.In this study,halotolerant plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria(PGPR)were isolated from the rhizosphere of wild grasses growing naturally in salt-affected areas of Lucknow,Uttar Pradesh(India)and were tested for their efficacies of salt-tolerance and plant growth-promoting(PGP)abilities.Based on 16S rRNA sequences,the most efficient halotolerant isolates possessing PGP traits were identified as Pseudomonas plecoglossicida(KM 233646),Acinetobacter calcoaceticus(KM 233647),Bacillus flexus(KM 233648),and Bacillus safensis(KM 233652).Application of these isolates as bio-inoculants significantly(P<0.05)increased the growth and bacoside A yield of a medicinal plant,Bacopa monnieri(L.)Nash,grown on natural salt-affected soil.The phytoremediation of salt-affected soil was evident by the substantial increase in shoot Na^+:K^+ratio of bio-inoculant-treated plants.When compared to un-inoculated control plants,the soil physico-chemical properties of bio-inoculant-treated plants were improved.The shoot and root biomass(fresh and dry weights),soil enzymes,and soil nutrient parameters showed significant positive correlations with the shoot Na+:K+ratio.Consequently,the halotolerant PGPR screened in this study could be useful for the reclamation of saline soils concomitant with improved plant growth and bacoside A yield.展开更多
A systematic experimental and theoretical investigation of the elastic and failure properties of ZnO nanowires (NWs) under different loading modes has been carried out. In situ scanning electron microscopy (SEM) tensi...A systematic experimental and theoretical investigation of the elastic and failure properties of ZnO nanowires (NWs) under different loading modes has been carried out. In situ scanning electron microscopy (SEM) tension and buckling tests on single ZnO NWs along the polar direction [0001] were conducted. Both tensile modulus (from tension) and bending modulus (from buckling) were found to increase as the NW diameter decreased from 80 to 20 nm. The bending modulus increased more rapidly than the tensile modulus, which demonstrates that the elasticity size effects in ZnO NWs are mainly due to surface stiffening. Two models based on continuum mechanics were able to fit the experimental data very well. The tension experiments showed that fracture strain and strength of ZnO NWs increased as the NW diameter decreased. The excellent resilience of ZnO NWs is advantageous for their applications in nanoscale actuation, sensing, and energy conversion.展开更多
Background: Bifurcation lesions pose a high risk for adverse events after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Evidence supporting the benefits of the two-stent strategy (2SS) for treating coronary bifurcation le...Background: Bifurcation lesions pose a high risk for adverse events after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Evidence supporting the benefits of the two-stent strategy (2SS) for treating coronary bifurcation lesions in India is limited. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of various 2SSs for percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty for bifurcation lesions in India. Materials and Methods: This retrospective, observational, multicentric, real-world study included 64 patients over 8 years. Data on demographics, medical history, PCI procedures, and outcomes were recorded. Descriptive statistics were computed using the SPSS software. Results: Patients (n = 64) had an average age of 65.3 ± 11.1 years, with 78.1% males. Acute coronary syndrome was reported in 18.8%, chronic stable angina in 40.6%, and unstable angina in 34.4% of participants. Two-vessel disease was observed in 98.4% of patients, and 99.4% had true bifurcation lesions. The commonly involved vessels were the left anterior descending artery (50%), left circumflex coronary artery (34.4%), and first diagonal artery (43.8%). Mean percent diameter stenosis was 87.2% ± 10.1%. The mean number of stents used was 2.00 ± 0.34. The 2SS techniques included the T and small protrusion (TAP) (39.1%), double kissing (DK) crush (18.8%), and the culotte techniques (14.1%). Procedural and angiographic success rate was 92.18%. Major adverse cardiovascular events at 1-year follow-up occurred in 7.8% of cases. Conclusion: The 2SS for bifurcation lesions showed favorable in-hospital and follow-up outcomes. Findings can serve as a resource for bifurcation angioplasty in India. Larger real-world studies with robust methodology are needed to validate these results.展开更多
The exponential rise in the burden of chronic kidney disease(CKD)worldwide has put enormous pressure on the economy.Predictive modeling of CKD can ease this burden by predicting the future disease occurrence ahead of ...The exponential rise in the burden of chronic kidney disease(CKD)worldwide has put enormous pressure on the economy.Predictive modeling of CKD can ease this burden by predicting the future disease occurrence ahead of its onset.There are various regression methods for predictive modeling based on the distribution of the outcome variable.However,the accuracy of the predictive model depends on how well the model is developed by taking into account the goodness of fit,choice of covariates,handling of covariates measured on a continuous scale,handling of categorical covariates,and number of outcome events per predictor parameter or sample size.Optimal performance of a predictive model on an independent cohort is desired.However,there are several challenges in the predictive modeling of CKD.Disease-specific methodological challenges hinder the development of a predictive model that is cost-effective and universally applicable to predict CKD onset.In this review,we discuss the advantages and challenges of various regression models available for predictive modeling and highlight those best for future CKD prediction.展开更多
文摘The slurry settling characteristics are the most important to design a thickener in process industries. In this work, the iron ore slurry from the screw classifier overflow was used for the settling study. It was observed that the original slurry exhibited a low settling velocity and a turbid supernatant during the settling process. Commercial flocculating agents with anionic, cationic, and nonionic characters were used to improve the settling behavior of suspensions, which were added into the slurry at different ranges of slurry pH values, respectively. The settling results show that the use of flocculants increase the settling rate by several times. Compared with the cationic and non-ionic flocculants, the anionic flocculant is more effective in enhancing the slurry settling rate. The small dose of the anionic flocculant is found to be more effective, but the other flocculants are less effective even at higher dosages. The simulation of an industrial thickener was carried out based on the laboratory settling data, and the appropriate design and selection parameters of the industrial thickener were estimated.
基金Supported by National Institutes of Health,Nos.R01 DK067255 and R01 AI080581
文摘Pancreatitis is inflammation of pancreas and caused by a number of factors including pancreatic duct obstruction, alcoholism, and mutation in the cationic trypsinogen gene. Pancreatitis is represented as acute pancreatitis with acute inflammatory responses and; chronic pan-creatitis characterized by marked stroma formation with a high number of infiltrating granulocytes(such as neutrophils, eosinophils), monocytes, macrophages and pancreatic stellate cells(PSCs). These inflammatory cells are known to play a central role in initiating and promoting inflammation including pancreatic fibrosis, i.e., a major risk factor for pancreatic cancer. A number of inflammatory cytokines are known to involve in pro-moting pancreatic pathogenesis that lead pancreatic fibrosis. Pancreatic fibrosis is a dynamic phenomenon that requires an intricate network of several autocrine and paracrine signaling pathways. In this review, we have provided the details of various cytokines and molecular mechanistic pathways(i.e., Transforming growth factor-β/SMAD, mitogen--activated protein kinases, Rho kinase, Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators, and phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase) that have a critical role in the activation of PSCs to promote chronic pancreatitis and trigger the phenomenon of pancreatic fibrogenesis. In this review of literature, we discuss the involvement of several pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as in interleukin(IL)-1, IL-1β, IL-6, IL--8 IL-10, IL-18, IL--33 and tumor necrosis factor-α, in the pathogenesis of disease. Our review also highlights the significance of several experimental animal models that have an important role in dissecting the mechanistic pathways operating in the development of chronic pancreatitis, including pancreatic fibrosis. Additionally, we provided several intermediary molecules that are involved in major signaling pathways that might provide target molecules for future therapeutic treatment strategies for pancreatic pathogenesis.
文摘Magnesium is one of the largely available elements in the earth’s crust. It has a low structural density with high specific strength. This unique material property has forced an increase in the use of magnesium and its alloys in various applications pertaining to industrial sector,automobiles, aerospace and biomedical. Since magnesium is a highly reactive metal, it is prone to higher rate of corrosion as compared to its counterparts. Thus, it is essential to analyze the corrosion behavior of magnesium and its alloys in its applications. An appropriate process is to be followed in the design and development of magnesium alloys which overcome the limitations of magnesium and enhance the desired material properties in accordance to their applications. This review paper summarizes the importance of magnesium and its material properties. The influence of various alloying elements on the mechanical properties of magnesium is reviewed. The broad classification of Mg alloys and their behavioral trends are detailed. The corrosion behavior of magnesium and the influence of corrosion products on the material characteristics of magnesium, in aqueous medium, are discussed. The manufacturing techniques of magnesium alloys along with the secondary techniques are also covered. The various applications and the limitations of magnesium in these applications are covered. A complete section is dedicated towards detailing the recent trends of magnesium(Mg) alloys, i.e., the biodegradable nature and applications of Mg alloys. The influence of biocorrosion on Mg alloys and techniques to overcome it have been deliberated. This paper provides a thorough review on recent developments of magnesium with respect to engineering applications.
文摘AIM:To evaluate the role of dietary supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids in dry eye syndrome.METHODS:A prospective,interventional,placebo controlled,double blind randomized trial was done at two referral eye centers.Two hundred and sixty-four eyes of patients with dry eye were randomized to receive one capsule(500mg)two times a day containing 325mg EPA and 175mg DHA for 3 months(omega-3 group).The omega-3 group was compared to a group of patients(n=254)who received a placebo(placebo group).There were 4 patient visits(at baseline,1 month,2 months and3 months).On each visit,recording of corrected distance visual acuity(CDVA),slit lamp examination and questionnaire based symptom evaluation and scoring was done.A symptomatic score of 0-6 was mild,6.1-12moderate and 12.1-18 severe dry eye.Response to intervention was monitored by routine tear function tests like Schirmer I test,tear film break-up time(TBUT),Rose Bengal staining and most notably,conjunctival impression cytology.RESULTS:Sixty-five percent of patients in the omega-3group and 33%of patients in placebo group had significant improvement in symptoms at 3 months(P=0.005).There was a significant change in both Schirmer’s test value and TBUT values in the omega-3group(P【0.001),both comparisons.However,there was a larger drift in TBUT values in omega-3 than the placebo group,in comparison to Schirmer’s test values.The mean TBUT score was 2.54±2.34 in the omega-3group and 0.13±0.16 in placebo group,respectively.The mean reduction in symptom score in omega-3 group was 2.02±0.96 as compared to 0.48±0.22 in placebogroup(P【0.001).Despite a slight increase mean score,the Schirmer scores did not correlate well with symptomatic improvement.CONCLUSION:Omega-3 fatty acids have a definite role for dry eye syndrome.The benefit seems to be more marked in conditions such as blepharitis and meibomian gland disease.The role of omega fatty acids in tear production and secretion needs further evaluation.
文摘Objective:To investigate the antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemie properties of hydroalcoholic extract of fruits of Sapindus mukorossi Caerlen and its beneficial effect on haeniatological parameters with histopathological analysis in streptpzotocin induced diabetic rats.Methods:Sapindus mukorossi fruits extract(250 and 500 mg/kg body weight) and standard drug glybenclamide(0.5 mg/kg body weight) were administered to diabetic rats.Effect of extract on hyperglycemia,hyperlipidemia and hematological parameters was studied in diabetic rats.Histopathological changes in diabetic rat pancreas were also observed after extract and glybenclamide treatment.Results:Daily oral administration of Sapindus mukorossi fruits extract(250 and 500 mg/kg body weight) and glybenclamide for 20 days showed beneficial effects on blood glucose level(P【0.01) and lipid level.The extract has a favorable effect on the histopathological changes of the pancreas in streptozotocin induced diabetes.Conclusions: These findings reveal that the hydroalcoholic extract of Sapindus mukorossi fruits extract possesses antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemie properties.In addition.the extract can prevent various complications of diabetes and improve some haeniatological parameters.
基金supported by the USDA National Institute for Food and Agriculture,Hatch-Multistate Fund,managed by the College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources,University of Hawaii at Manoa,Honolulu,HI,USA.
文摘Dietary fiber(DF)was considered an antinutritional factor due to its adverse effects on feed intake and nutrient digestibility.However,with increasing evidence,scientists have found that DF has enormous impacts on the gastrointestinal tract(GIT)development,digestive physiology,including nutrient digestion,fermentation,and absorption processes of poultry.It may help maintain the small and large intestine’s integrity by strengthening mucosal structure and functions and increasing the population and diversity of commensal bacteria in the GIT.Increasing DF content benefits digestive physiology by stimulating GIT development and enzyme production.And the inclusion of fiber at a moderate level in diets also alters poultry growth performance.It improves gut health by modulating beneficial microbiota in the large intestine and enhancing immune functions.However,determining the source,type,form,and level of DF inclusion is of utmost importance to achieve the above-noted benefits.This paper critically reviews the available information on dietary fibers used in poultry and their effects on nutrient utilization,GIT development,gut health,and poultry performance.Understanding these functions will help develop nutrition programs using proper DF at an appropriate inclusion level that will ultimately lead to enhanced DF utilization,overall health,and improved poultry growth performance.Thus,this review will help researchers and industry identify the sources,type,form,and amount of DF to be used in poultry nutrition for healthy,costeffective,and eco-friendly poultry production.
文摘Diabetes has become the epidemic of the 21 st century, and with over 90% patients with diabetes becoming at a risk of developing retinopathy, diabetic retinopathy has emerged as a major public health concern. In spite of cutting edge research in the field, how retina and its vasculature are damaged by the diabetic milieu remains ambiguous. The environmental factors, life style or disease process can also bring in modifications in the DNA, and these epigenetic modifications either silence or activate a gene without altering the DNA sequence. Diabetic environment up- or downregulates a number of genes in the retina, and emerging research has shown that it also facilitates epigenetic modifications. In the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy, the genes associated with important enzymes(e.g., mitochondrial superoxide dismutase, matrix metalloproteinase-9 and thioredoxin interacting protein) and transcriptional factors are epigenetically modified, the enzymes responsible for these epigenetic modifications are either activated or inhibited, and the levels of micro RNAs are altered. With epigenetic modifications taking an important place in diabetic retinopathy, it is now becoming critical to evaluate these modifications, and understand their impact on this slow progressing blinding disease.
文摘In this paper we present the current capabilities for numerical weather prediction of precipitation over China using a suite of ten multimodels and our superensemble based forecasts. Our suite of models includes the operational suite selected by NCARs TIGGE archives for the THORPEX Program. These are： ECMWF, UKMO, JMA, NCEP, CMA, CMC, BOM, MF, KMA and the CPTEC models. The superensemble strategy includes a training and a forecasts phase, for these the periods chosen for this study include the months February through September for the years 2007 and 2008. This paper addresses precipitation forecasts for the medium range i.e. Days 1 to 3 and extending out to Day 10 of forecasts using this suite of global models. For training and forecasts validations we have made use of an advanced TRMM satellite based rainfall product. We make use of standard metrics for forecast validations that include the RMS errors, spatial correlations and the equitable threat scores. The results of skill forecasts of precipitation clearly demonstrate that it is possible to obtain higher skills for precipitation forecasts for Days 1 through 3 of forecasts from the use of the multimodel superensemble as compared to the best model of this suite. Between Days 4 to 10 it is possible to have very high skills from the multimodel superensemble for the RMS error of precipitation. Those skills are shown for a global belt and especially over China. Phenomenologically this product was also found very useful for precipitation forecasts for the Onset of the South China Sea monsoon, the life cycle of the mei-yu rains and post typhoon landfall heavy rains and flood events. The higher skills of the multimodel superensemble make it a very useful product for such real time events.
文摘Objective:To evaluate the cytotoxicity and hepatoprotective potentials of extracts,fractions or isolated compound from the leaves of Feronia limonia(F.limonia).Methods:Qualitative phytochemical analysis of extracts,fractions or compound was performed by means of thin layer chromatography and spectroscopic assays.The%purity of compound was measured by analytical HPLC.Extracts,fractions or compound have been individually evaluated for their cytotoxicity effects(10,20,100,250,500,750 and 1 000 μg/mL).Based on the inhibitory concentration(IC_(50)) obtained from the cell viability assay,graded concentrations of extracts,fractions or isolated compound were assessed(10,20,50,100,200 μg/mL) for its hepatoprotective potential against CCl_4-induced hepatotoxicity by monitoring activity levels of serum glutamatic pyruvatic transaminase(SGPT) and serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase(SGOT).Results:Results indicated that the methanol extract of F.limonia was non-toxic and hepatoprotective in nature as compared with the petroleum ether extract.The acetone fraction of methanolic extract also showed similar properties but the subsequent two fractions were cytotoxic.However,the pure compound isolated from the penultimate fraction of methanolic extract was non-toxic and hepatoprotective in nature.Biochemical investigations(SCOT,SCPT) further corroborated these cytological observations.Conclusions:It can be concluded from this study that F.limonia methanol extract,some fractions and pure isolated compound herein exhibit hepatoprotective activity.However,cytotoxicity recorded in the penultimate fraction and investigation of structural details of pure compound warrants further study.
文摘Background: The scarcity of early biomarkers for acute renal failure has hindered our ability to launch preventive and therapeutic measures for this disorder in a timely manner. We tested the hypothesis that neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin(NGAL) is an early biomarker for ischaemic renal injury after cardiopulmonary bypass. Methods: We studied 71 children undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass. Serial urine and blood samples were analysed by western blots and ELISA for NGAL expression. The primary outcome measure was acute renal injury, defined as a 50%increase in serum creatinine from baseline. Findings: 20 children(28%) developed acute renal injury, but diagnosis with serum creatinine was only possible 1-3 days after cardiopulmonary bypass. By contrast, urine concentrations of NGAL rose from a mean of 1.6 μg/L(SE 0.3) at baseline to 147 μg/L(23) 2 h after cardiopulmonary bypass, and the amount in serum increased from a mean of 3.2 μg/L(SE 0.5) at baseline to 61 μg/L(10) 2 h after the procedure. Univariate analysis showed a significant correlation between acute renal injury and the following: urine and serum concentrations of NGAL at 2 h, and cardiopulmonary bypass time. By multivariate analysis, the amount of NGAL in urine at 2 h after cardiopulmonary bypass was the most powerful independent predictor of acute renal injury. For concentration in urine of NGAL at 2 h, the area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve was 0.998, sensitivity was 1.00, and specificity was 0.98 for a cutoff value of 50 μg/L. Interpretation: Concentrations in urine and serum of NGAL represent sensitive, specific, and highly predictive early biomarkers for acute renal injury after cardiac surgery.
文摘Pyrolysis and combustion characteristics of three different oil cakes such as Pongamia(Pongamia Pinnata),Madhuca(Madhuca Indica),and Jatropha(Jatropha curcas) were investigated in this study.The cellulose and lignin contents of oil cakes play very important role in pyrolysis and combustion processes.A kinetic investigation of three oil cakes was carried out and major part of the samples decomposed between 210℃ and 500℃.Pyrolysis and combustion were carried out with the mixtures of cellulose and lignin chemicals in different ratios and compared with the oil cakes.The biomass with higher cellulose content showed faster rate of pyrolysis than the biomass with higher lignin content.However at higher temperatures(>600℃) all the oil cakes exhibited similar conversion at low heating rate in N2 atmosphere.Apparent activation energies increased for Madhuca and Pongamia oil cakes indicating the presence of more cellulose whereas,low activation energy of Jatropha confirms more lignin content.
文摘In the current study,the calcium copper titanate(CCTO)/epoxy,barium titanate(BT)/epoxy and CCTO-BT/epoxy composite samples with variable volume fractions of CCTO and BT are fabricated using hand lay-up and compression moulding process. The composite samples are characterized for the frequency dependence on dielectric properties,conductivity,impedance spectroscopy and electrical modulus.X-ray diffraction(XRD)representation of CCTO-BT/epoxy composite samples confirmed the presence of both CCTO and BT ceramic samples separately. The dielectric characteristics of hybrid CCTO-BT/epoxy composite samples with CCTO∶BT ratio of 40∶60, 60∶40,and 50∶50 was found relatively better than those of single ceramic filler reinforced epoxy composites. AC conductivity analysis shows improvement in the results of hybrid filler-filled CCTO-BT/epoxy composites in comparison with single filler-filled epoxy composite.50∶50 CCTO-BT/epoxy composite shows the best AC conductivity value of~ 2.2 ×10^(-5) ohm^(-1)·m^(-1) at a higher frequency of 1MHz. The impedance analysis confirms the higher insulating properties for hybrid 40∶60 and 60∶40 CCTO-BT/epoxy composites with respect to the single and other hybrid ceramic epoxy composites. The analysis suggests the hybrid CCTO-BT/epoxy composites to be adopted as a potential dielectric material for energy storage devices and other electronic applications.
基金funded by"Agencia Canaria de Inves-tigación,Innovación y Sociedad de la Información(ACIISI)del Gobierno de Canarias"(No.ProID2020010134),óCaja Canarias(Project No.2019SP43).
文摘Cancer is an abnormal state of cells where they undergo uncontrolled proliferation and produce aggressive malignancies that causes millions of deaths every year.With the new understanding of the molecular mechanism(s)of disease progression,our knowledge about the disease is snowballing,leading to the evolution of many new therapeutic regimes and their successive trials.In the past few decades,various combinations of therapies have been pro-posed and are presently employed in the treatment of diverse cancers.Targeted drug therapy,immunotherapy,and personalized medicines are now largely being employed,which were not common a few years back.The field of cancer discoveries and therapeutics are evolving fast as cancer type-specific biomarkers are progressively being identified and several types of cancers are nowadays undergoing systematic therapies,extending patients’disease-free survival thereafter.Although growing evidence shows that a systematic and targeted approach could be the future of cancer medicine,chemotherapy remains a largely opted therapeutic option despite its known side effects on the patient’s physical and psychological health.Chemother-apeutic agents/pharmaceuticals served a great purpose over the past few decades and have remained the frontline choice for advanced-stage malignancies where surgery and/or radiation therapy cannot be prescribed due to specific reasons.The present report succinctly reviews the existing and contemporary advancements in chemotherapy and assesses the status of the enrolled drugs/pharmaceuticals;it also comprehensively discusses the emerging role of specific/targeted therapeutic strategies that are presently being employed to achieve better clinical success/survival rate in cancer patients.
文摘Phytoremediation is a promising approach for reclamation of salt-affected soil.Phytoextraction is the most commonly used process,which exploits plants to absorb,immobilize,and accumulate salt in their shoots.In this study,halotolerant plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria(PGPR)were isolated from the rhizosphere of wild grasses growing naturally in salt-affected areas of Lucknow,Uttar Pradesh(India)and were tested for their efficacies of salt-tolerance and plant growth-promoting(PGP)abilities.Based on 16S rRNA sequences,the most efficient halotolerant isolates possessing PGP traits were identified as Pseudomonas plecoglossicida(KM 233646),Acinetobacter calcoaceticus(KM 233647),Bacillus flexus(KM 233648),and Bacillus safensis(KM 233652).Application of these isolates as bio-inoculants significantly(P<0.05)increased the growth and bacoside A yield of a medicinal plant,Bacopa monnieri(L.)Nash,grown on natural salt-affected soil.The phytoremediation of salt-affected soil was evident by the substantial increase in shoot Na^+:K^+ratio of bio-inoculant-treated plants.When compared to un-inoculated control plants,the soil physico-chemical properties of bio-inoculant-treated plants were improved.The shoot and root biomass(fresh and dry weights),soil enzymes,and soil nutrient parameters showed significant positive correlations with the shoot Na+:K+ratio.Consequently,the halotolerant PGPR screened in this study could be useful for the reclamation of saline soils concomitant with improved plant growth and bacoside A yield.
基金This work was supported by the National Science Foundation under Award No.CMMI-0826341 and a Faculty Research and Professional Development Award from North Carolina State University.
文摘A systematic experimental and theoretical investigation of the elastic and failure properties of ZnO nanowires (NWs) under different loading modes has been carried out. In situ scanning electron microscopy (SEM) tension and buckling tests on single ZnO NWs along the polar direction [0001] were conducted. Both tensile modulus (from tension) and bending modulus (from buckling) were found to increase as the NW diameter decreased from 80 to 20 nm. The bending modulus increased more rapidly than the tensile modulus, which demonstrates that the elasticity size effects in ZnO NWs are mainly due to surface stiffening. Two models based on continuum mechanics were able to fit the experimental data very well. The tension experiments showed that fracture strain and strength of ZnO NWs increased as the NW diameter decreased. The excellent resilience of ZnO NWs is advantageous for their applications in nanoscale actuation, sensing, and energy conversion.
文摘Background: Bifurcation lesions pose a high risk for adverse events after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Evidence supporting the benefits of the two-stent strategy (2SS) for treating coronary bifurcation lesions in India is limited. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of various 2SSs for percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty for bifurcation lesions in India. Materials and Methods: This retrospective, observational, multicentric, real-world study included 64 patients over 8 years. Data on demographics, medical history, PCI procedures, and outcomes were recorded. Descriptive statistics were computed using the SPSS software. Results: Patients (n = 64) had an average age of 65.3 ± 11.1 years, with 78.1% males. Acute coronary syndrome was reported in 18.8%, chronic stable angina in 40.6%, and unstable angina in 34.4% of participants. Two-vessel disease was observed in 98.4% of patients, and 99.4% had true bifurcation lesions. The commonly involved vessels were the left anterior descending artery (50%), left circumflex coronary artery (34.4%), and first diagonal artery (43.8%). Mean percent diameter stenosis was 87.2% ± 10.1%. The mean number of stents used was 2.00 ± 0.34. The 2SS techniques included the T and small protrusion (TAP) (39.1%), double kissing (DK) crush (18.8%), and the culotte techniques (14.1%). Procedural and angiographic success rate was 92.18%. Major adverse cardiovascular events at 1-year follow-up occurred in 7.8% of cases. Conclusion: The 2SS for bifurcation lesions showed favorable in-hospital and follow-up outcomes. Findings can serve as a resource for bifurcation angioplasty in India. Larger real-world studies with robust methodology are needed to validate these results.
基金Supported by Coord/7(1)/CAREKD/2018/NCD-II,No.5/4/7-12/13/NCD-IISenior Research Fellowship by the Indian Council of Medical Research,New Delhi,No.3/1/2(6)/Nephro/2022-NCD-II.
文摘The exponential rise in the burden of chronic kidney disease(CKD)worldwide has put enormous pressure on the economy.Predictive modeling of CKD can ease this burden by predicting the future disease occurrence ahead of its onset.There are various regression methods for predictive modeling based on the distribution of the outcome variable.However,the accuracy of the predictive model depends on how well the model is developed by taking into account the goodness of fit,choice of covariates,handling of covariates measured on a continuous scale,handling of categorical covariates,and number of outcome events per predictor parameter or sample size.Optimal performance of a predictive model on an independent cohort is desired.However,there are several challenges in the predictive modeling of CKD.Disease-specific methodological challenges hinder the development of a predictive model that is cost-effective and universally applicable to predict CKD onset.In this review,we discuss the advantages and challenges of various regression models available for predictive modeling and highlight those best for future CKD prediction.
