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Nanomaterials (Basel, Switzerland) Apr 2020Filling of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and extraction of the encapsulated species from their cavities are perspective treatments for tuning the functional...
Filling of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and extraction of the encapsulated species from their cavities are perspective treatments for tuning the functional properties of SWCNT-based materials. Here, we have investigated sulfur-modified SWCNTs synthesized by the ampoule method. The morphology and chemical states of carbon and sulfur were analyzed by transmission electron microscopy, Raman scattering, thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray photoelectron and near-edge X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopies. Successful encapsulation of sulfur inside SWCNTs cavities was demonstrated. The peculiarities of interactions of SWCNTs with encapsulated and external sulfur species were analyzed in details. In particular, the donor-acceptor interaction between encapsulated sulfur and host SWCNT is experimentally demonstrated. The sulfur-filled SWCNTs were continuously irradiated with polychromatic photon beam of high intensity. Comparison of X-ray spectra of the samples before and after the treatment revealed sulfur transport from the interior to the surface of SWCNTs bundles, in particular extraction of sulfur from the SWCNT cavity. These results show that the moderate heating of filled nanotubes could be used to de-encapsulate the guest species tuning the local composition, and hence, the functional properties of SWCNT-based materials.
PubMed: 32344811
DOI: 10.3390/nano10050818 -
Beilstein Journal of Nanotechnology 2023This article describes an approach for synthesizing silicon phosphide nanoparticles with a defective zinc blende structure under mild conditions through thermal...
This article describes an approach for synthesizing silicon phosphide nanoparticles with a defective zinc blende structure under mild conditions through thermal annealing of hydrogenated silicon nanoparticles with red phosphorus. The synthesized SiP nanoparticles were analyzed using FTIR, XRD, electron diffraction, EDX, TEM, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, and UV-vis spectrophotometry. For the isolated cubic SiP phase, a cell parameter of = 5.04 Å was determined, and the bandgap was estimated to be equal to 1.25 eV. Because of the nanoscale dimensions of the obtained SiP nanoparticles, the product may exhibit several exceptional properties as a precursor for diffusion doping of wafers and as anode material for Li-ion batteries. A similar method with a hydrogenation step offers the possibility to obtain other compounds, such as silicon selenides, arsenides, and sulfides.
PubMed: 37800121
DOI: 10.3762/bjnano.14.80 -
Journal of Korean Medical Science Nov 2014This study aimed to examine the positive effects of polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) on the wound-healing process in pressure ulcers. In this randomized controlled trial,... (Randomized Controlled Trial)
Randomized Controlled Trial
This study aimed to examine the positive effects of polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) on the wound-healing process in pressure ulcers. In this randomized controlled trial, the effects of PDRN were compared over time between an experimental group (n=11) and a control group (n=12). The former was administered the same dose of PDRN intramuscularly (1 ampule, 3 mL, 5.625 mg, for 5 days) for 2 weeks and perilesionally (1 ampule, 3 mL, 5.625 mg, twice a week) for 4 weeks. The primary endpoint for determining efficacy was wound healing in the pressure ulcers, which was reflected by the wound surface area determined using VISITRAK Digital (Smith & Nephew, Largo, FL). The secondary endpoint was the pressure ulcer scale for healing score, determined using pressure ulcer scale for healing (PUSH Tool 3.0 developed by the National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel). After the 4-week treatment period, PDRN therapy was found to significantly reduce the wound size and PUSH score, without adverse effect during the treatment. The findings indicate that PDRN can positively modify the wound healing process in pressure ulcers, and its use could improve the clinical outcomes of patients and lower the need for additional therapies or hospital stay.
Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Female; Humans; Injections, Intramuscular; Male; Middle Aged; Polydeoxyribonucleotides; Pressure Ulcer; Treatment Outcome; Wound Healing; Young Adult
PubMed: 25473213
DOI: 10.3346/jkms.2014.29.S3.S222 -
Acta Ophthalmologica Nov 2022Since July 2021, a worldwide shortage of verteporfin (Visudyne®) occurred: an essential medicine required for photodynamic therapy (PDT). PDT with verteporfin has a...
INTRODUCTION
Since July 2021, a worldwide shortage of verteporfin (Visudyne®) occurred: an essential medicine required for photodynamic therapy (PDT). PDT with verteporfin has a broad range of indications in ophthalmology, including chronic central serous chorioretinopathy, polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy and choroidal haemangioma. For these disorders, PDT is either the first-choice treatment or regarded as a major treatment option.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
A questionnaire was sent to key opinion leaders in the field of medical retina throughout the world, to assess the role of PDT in their country and the effects of the shortage of verteporfin. In addition, information on the application of alternative treatments during shortage of verteporfin was obtained, to further assess the impact of the shortage.
RESULTS
Our questionnaire indicated that the shortage of verteporfin had a major impact on ophthalmic care worldwide and was regarded to be a serious problem by most of our respondents. However, even though there is ample evidence to support the use of PDT in several chorioretinal diseases, we found notable differences in its use in normal patient care throughout the world. Various alternative management strategies were noted during the verteporfin shortage, including lowering the dose of verteporfin per patient, the use of alternative treatment strategies and the use of a centralized system for allocating the remaining ampoules of verteporfin in some countries.
CONCLUSION
The shortage of verteporfin has had a large effect on the care of ophthalmic patients across the world and may have resulted in significant and irreversible vision loss. Mitigation strategies should be developed in consultation with all stakeholders to avoid future medication shortages of verteporfin and other unique ophthalmic medications. These strategies may include mandatory stock keeping, compulsory licensing to an alternative manufacturer or incentivizing the development of competition, for example through novel public-private partnerships.
Topics: Central Serous Chorioretinopathy; Choroidal Neovascularization; Fluorescein Angiography; Humans; Photochemotherapy; Photosensitizing Agents; Porphyrins; Treatment Outcome; Verteporfin
PubMed: 35388619
DOI: 10.1111/aos.15148 -
Journal of Pediatric Intensive Care Sep 2020Sialorrhea is a frequent problem and may lead to aspiration in patients with swallowing dysfunction. We aimed to assess the effectiveness and safety of sublingual...
Sialorrhea is a frequent problem and may lead to aspiration in patients with swallowing dysfunction. We aimed to assess the effectiveness and safety of sublingual atropine sulfate treatment in pediatric patients with sialorrhea. The medical records of patients who had received sublingual atropine sulfate between January 2015 and January 2016 were reviewed retrospectively. The demographic properties, diagnosis, invasive or noninvasive mechanical ventilation need, and the presence of tracheotomy were assessed. Response rates to sublingual atropine were measured using the Teacher Drooling Scale (TDS). Pre and post-treatment drooling scores were compared. Atropine sulfate ampoule was administered at 20 µg/kg/dose. Minimum dose was 0.25 mg, while maximum dose was 0.03 mg/kg.Thirty-five pediatric patients with sialorrhea who had received sublingual atropine sulfate were identified; however, TDS scores had been recorded in only 20 of them. The median age of the patients was 25 months (3-78 months; 7 girls, 13 boys). Sixteen (80%) patients were on invasive mechanical ventilation and seven (30%) had tracheotomy. Nineteen patients had a neurodevelopmental disorder and only one patient had oral and esophageal lesions due to corrosive material intake. The median TDS score prior to sublingual atropine sulfate treatment was 5, and it decreased to 3 on the second day of treatment, a change that was statistically significant ( < 0.001). No side effects were observed. Sublingual atropine sulfate is safe and effective in the short-term treatment of sialorrhea; however, randomized placebo controlled and long-term follow-up studies are necessary.
PubMed: 32685247
DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1708552 -
Annals of Medicine and Surgery (2012) Feb 2022In poor countries, due to the limited resources, mostly they prescribe medications without proper diagnosis. The aim of this report is to show diagnostic bias of...
INTRODUCTION
In poor countries, due to the limited resources, mostly they prescribe medications without proper diagnosis. The aim of this report is to show diagnostic bias of COVID-19 case.
CASE PRESENTATION
A 17-year-old male patient was presented to the Hospital with a fever up to 39 °C associated with rigor, sweating, generalized body pain, myalgia, fatigue, loss of appetite, headache, and multiple joint pain with no swelling and redness. The vital signs were steady on physical examination, except temperature which was 39 °C. The chest was clear, and the pulse rate was 90 beats per minute. The heart rate relative bradycardia and lungs were normal. Both a PCR test for COVID-19, and a viral assay ELISA were negative. After further investigations, the culture findings revealed the strong development of Gram-negative coccobacilli ( serotype Typhi) bacteria under the microscope, which was confirmed by using VITEK 2 to identify it. and treated with ciprofloxacin tab, two times per day for five days and amikacin ampule 500 mg IV every 24 hours for 10 days.
DISCUSSION
Fever is a well-known sign of COVID-19 infection which has been observed in 83%-98% of patients with COVID19. As a result, it may be difficult to tell the difference between COVID-19 and other febrile infections, causing delays in diagnosis and treatment and may blind the physician from considering other febrile illnesses.
CONCLUSION
Physicians should construct more comprehensive differential diagnoses for people who experience fever, headache, or myalgia symptoms that are linked to a pandemic. COVID-19.
PubMed: 35096387
DOI: 10.1016/j.amsu.2022.103282 -
Acta Crystallographica. Section E,... Oct 2023A new solid-state inorganic compound, indium dilead penta-chloride, InPbCl, was synthesized by melting InCl and PbCl in a vacuum-sealed quartz ampoule. The ampoule was...
A new solid-state inorganic compound, indium dilead penta-chloride, InPbCl, was synthesized by melting InCl and PbCl in a vacuum-sealed quartz ampoule. The ampoule was heated to 793 K and then slowly cooled to room temperature to induce crystallization of InPbCl. InPbCl crystallizes in the monoclinic crystal system adopting a space group of type 2/, which is isostructural with other metal halides such as RbPbCl, KPbCl and TlPbCl. The bulk InPbCl exhibits a metallic black/grey colour, allowing it to be separated from white/yellow PbCl crystals. Due to the incongruent nature of the compound, the pure bulk InPbCl was not obtained. The black/grey InPbCl crystals were characterized by powder and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. InPbCl was also explored, however the growth was unsuccessful.
PubMed: 37817955
DOI: 10.1107/S2056989023007892 -
Gels (Basel, Switzerland) May 2024The application results of profile control and water plugging technology are highly related to the gelation time and strength of phenolic resin hydrogel. In this work, a...
The application results of profile control and water plugging technology are highly related to the gelation time and strength of phenolic resin hydrogel. In this work, a hydrogel solution was prepared by fully mixing the prepared polymer solution with a crosslinker. The static gelation process of PFR hydrogel in ampoule bottles and porous media was analyzed by changes in the viscosity and residual resistance coefficient. Then, the dynamic gelation of the PFR hydrogel in porous media was tested using a circulating flow device, and the changes in viscosity and injection pressure were analyzed during the dynamic gelation process. Finally, the effects of the polymer concentration and crosslinker concentration on dynamic gelation were analyzed. The initial gelation time and final gelation time in porous media were 1-1.5 times and 1.5-2 times those in ampoule bottles under static conditions, respectively. The initial dynamic gelation time in porous media was 2-2.5 times and 1.5-2 times the initial static gelation times in ampoule bottles and porous media, respectively. The final dynamic gelation time was four times and two times the initial static gelation times in ampoule bottles and porous media, respectively. The production after dynamic gelation in porous media comprised hydrogel aggregates and water fluid, leading to a high injection pressure and low viscosity of the produced liquid. As the concentration of polymer and crosslinker increased, the dynamic gelation time was shortened and the gel strength was increased. In the dynamic gelation process in porous media, the phenol resin hydrogel could migrate deeply, but it was limited by the concentrations of the polymer and crosslinker. The results of subsequent water flooding showed that the polymer hydrogel had a good plugging ability after dynamic gelation. The deep reservoir could only be blocked off in the subsequent water flooding process when the migration of hydrogel happened in the dynamic gelation process.
PubMed: 38786242
DOI: 10.3390/gels10050325 -
Systematic Reviews Mar 2015In the Western world, dietary supplements are commonly used to prevent chronic diseases, mainly cardiovascular disease and cancer. However, there is inconsistent...
Dietary supplements and risk of cause-specific death, cardiovascular disease, and cancer: a protocol for a systematic review and network meta-analysis of primary prevention trials.
BACKGROUND
In the Western world, dietary supplements are commonly used to prevent chronic diseases, mainly cardiovascular disease and cancer. However, there is inconsistent evidence on which dietary supplements actually lower risk of chronic disease, and some may even increase risk. We aim to evaluate the comparative safety and/or effectiveness of dietary supplements for the prevention of mortality (all-cause, cardiovascular, and cancer) and cardiovascular and cancer incidence in primary prevention trials.
METHODS/DESIGN
We will search PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, the Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, clinical trials.gov, and the World Health Organization International Trial Registry Platform. Randomized controlled trials will be included if they meet the following criteria: (1) minimum intervention period of 12 months; (2) primary prevention of chronic disease (is concerned with preventing the onset of diseases and conditions); (3) minimum mean age ≥18 years (maximum mean age 70 years); (4) intervention(s) include vitamins (beta-carotene, vitamin A, B vitamins, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, and multivitamin supplements); fatty acids (omega-3 fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids, monounsaturated fat); minerals (magnesium, calcium, selenium, potassium, iron, zinc, copper, iodine; multiminerals); supplements containing combinations of both vitamins and minerals; protein (amino acids); fiber; prebiotics; probiotics; synbiotics; (5) supplements are orally administered as liquids, pills, capsules, tablets, drops, ampoules, or powder; (6) report results on all-cause mortality (primary outcome) and/or mortality from cardiovascular disease or cancer, cardiovascular and/or cancer incidence (secondary outcomes). Pooled effects across studies will be calculated using Bayesian random effects network meta-analysis. Sensitivity analysis will be performed for trials lasting ≥5 years, trials with low risk of bias, trials in elderly people (≥65 years), ethnicity, geographical region, and trials in men and women. The results of the corresponding fixed effects models will also be compared in sensitivity analyses.
DISCUSSION
This is a presentation of the study protocol only. Results and conclusions are pending completion of this study. Our systematic review will be of great value to consumers of supplements, healthcare providers, and policy-makers, regarding the use of dietary supplements.
PROSPERO
CRD42014014801 .
Topics: Amino Acids; Cardiovascular Diseases; Cause of Death; Clinical Protocols; Dietary Fiber; Dietary Supplements; Fatty Acids, Unsaturated; Humans; Micronutrients; Neoplasms; Research Design; Systematic Reviews as Topic
PubMed: 25875487
DOI: 10.1186/s13643-015-0029-z -
RSC Advances Dec 2021The quaternary halide-containing yttrium(iii) oxidoantimonates(iii) YSbOCl and YSbOBr were synthesised through solid-state reactions from the binary components (YO, SbO...
The quaternary halide-containing yttrium(iii) oxidoantimonates(iii) YSbOCl and YSbOBr were synthesised through solid-state reactions from the binary components (YO, SbO and YX, X = Cl and Br) at 750 °C in evacuated fused silica ampoules with eutectic mixtures of NaX and CsX (X = Cl and Br) as fluxing agents. YSbOCl crystallizes tetragonally in the non-centrosymmetric space group 422 with unit-cell parameters of = 773.56(4) pm and = 878.91(6) pm, whereas YSbOBr is monoclinic (space group: 2/) with = 896.54(6) pm, = 780.23(5) pm, = 779.61(5) pm and = 91.398(3)°, both for = 4. The two new YSbOX compounds contain [YO] polyhedra, which are connected four common edges to form layers ((Y-O) = 225-254 pm) without any Y⋯X bonds ((Y⋯X) > 400 pm). Moreover, all oxygen atoms belong to ψ-tetrahedral [SbO] units, which are either connected to four-membered rings [SbO] in the chloride (Y[SbO]Cl for = 2) or endless chains in the bromide (Y(SbO)Br for = 8) by common vertices. With distances of 307 pm in YSbOCl and 326 pm in YSbOBr there are not even substantial bonding Sb⋯X (X = Cl and Br) interactions at work. Luminescence spectroscopy on samples doped with trivalent europium and terbium showed an energy transfer from the oxidoantimonate(iii) moieties as the sensitizer in the host structure onto the lanthanoid activators.
PubMed: 35425089
DOI: 10.1039/d1ra08382a