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Introduction: The aim of this study was to systematically review the benefits and harms of using a high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) for weaning continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) support in preterm infants. Methods: Cochrane Central, EMBASE, Medline, and Web of Science were searched from inception to July 15, 2023. Randomised clinical trials (RCTs) comparing weaning CPAP using HFNC versus weaning CPAP alone and evaluating predefined outcomes were included. Two authors independently performed data extraction and methodological quality assessment. Meta-analysis was conducted using a random-effects model, and the certainty of evidence was assessed using Cochrane GRADE. Results: Among 843 identified records, seven RCTs involving 781 preterm infants were eligible for analysis. The meta-analysis found no statistically significant difference in duration of respiratory support when using HFNC for weaning compared to weaning CPAP alone (mean difference (95% confidence interval) 3.52 (−0.02, 7.05); 5 RCTs; participants = 488; I2 = 29%). The evidence certainty was downgraded to low due to study limitations and imprecision. There were no significant differences in secondary outcomes, except for a lower occurrence of nasal trauma with HFNC for weaning CPAP compared to weaning CPAP alone (relative risk (95% confidence interval) 0.61 (0.38, 0.99); 4 RCTs; participants = 335; I2 = 0%). The evidence certainty for the secondary outcomes was low to very low. Conclusion: Low certainty of evidence suggests using HFNC for weaning CPAP in preterm infants may not impact the duration of respiratory support. Caution is advised when considering HFNC for weaning CPAP, especially in extremely preterm infants, until additional supportive evidence on its safety becomes available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Severe brain injury (SBI), including severe intraventricular haemorrhage (sIVH) and cystic periventricular leukomalacia, poses significant challenges for preterm infants, yet recent data and trends are limited. Methods: Analyses were conducted using the Australian and New Zealand Neonatal Network data on preterm infants born <32 weeks’ gestation admitted at Monash Children’s Hospital, Australia, from January 2014 to April 2021. The occurrence and trends of SBI and sIVH among preterm infants, along with the rates and trends of death and neurodevelopmental impairment (NDI) in SBI infants were assessed. Results: Of 1,609 preterm infants, 6.7% had SBI, and 5.6% exhibited sIVH. A total of 37.6% of infants with SBI did not survive to discharge, with 92% of these deaths occurring following redirection of clinical care. Cerebral palsy was diagnosed in 65.2% of SBI survivors, while 86.4% of SBI survivors experienced NDI. No statistically significant differences were observed in the temporal trends of SBI (adjusted OR [95% CI] 1.08 [0.97–1.20]; p = 0.13) or sIVH (adjusted OR [95% CI] 1.09 [0.97–1.21]; p = 0.11). Similarly, there was no statistically significant difference noted in the temporal trend of the composite outcome, which included death or NDI among infants with SBI (adjusted OR [95% CI] 0.90 [0.53–1.53]; p = 0.71). Conclusion: Neither the rates of SBI nor its associated composite outcome of death or NDI improved over time. A notable proportion of preterm infants with SBI faced redirection of care and subsequent mortality, while most survivors exhibited adverse neurodevelopmental challenges. The development of better therapeutic interventions is imperative to improve outcomes for these vulnerable infants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the impacts of hydrogen (H 2) induction along with injected liquid honne biodiesel (BHO)/uppage biodiesel (BUO) as secondary pilot fuel in diesel engine. The effects of compression ratio (CR), hydrogen fuel flow rate (HFR) and different combustion chamber shapes in dual fuel (DF) mode were investigated. In the first phase of experiments, the effects of three different CR (15.5, 16.5, and 17.5) on engine efficacy and emission were presented. In the second phase, the effects of three HFR (0.1, 0.17, and 0.24 kg/h) on engine efficacy and emission, as well as the maximum possible HFR were reported. In the last phase, performance with different combustion chambers i.e., Hemispherical Combustion Chamber (HCC), Toroidal Reentrant Combustion Chamber (TRCC), and Toroidal Combustion Chamber (TCC) at maximum possible CR and HFR was highlighted. The study revealed that for knock free operation of the DF engine, the highest probable HFR was 0.24 kg/h at a CR of 17.5, fuel IT of 27obefore top dead center (bTDC) and injector opening pressure (IOP) of 250 bar. The toroidal re-entrant combustion chamber (TRCC) shape yielded 8%–12% better brake thermal efficiency (BTE) with lower emissions but 20–29% higher oxides of nitrogen (NOx) at 80% load in DF mode as contrasted to the single CI mode. Both peak pressure (PP) and heat release rate (HRR) were 12–15% higher. Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to design the experiments and to carry the optimization process. Artificial Neural Network (ANN) was used to forecast the performance and emission behaviors of the test engine. The findings demonstrated that RSM and ANN were excellent modelling techniques with good accuracy. In addition, ANN's prediction performance (R2 = 0.975 for BTE) was somewhat better than RSM's (R2 = 0.974 for BTE). Both the techniques were found to be successful in terms of agreement with experimental findings with ratios varying from 95% to 98% respectively. The prediction of BTE and NOx was also carried using different machine learning algorithms. It can be seen that R2 value for these models were slightly lower than ANN and RSM models indicating good predicting capability of ANN modelling. • Hydrogen induction along with liquid honne biodiesel (BHO)/uppage biodiesel (BUO) as secondary pilot fuel. • Compression ratio, hydrogen fuel flow rate and different combustion chamber shapes in dual fuel (DF) mode. • Toroidal re-entrant combustion chamber (TRCC) shape yielded better 8%–12% BTE with lower emissions. • 20%–29% higher oxides of nitrogen (NOx) at 80% load in DF mode was obtained as contrasted to the single CI mode. • ANN and RSM models predict the performance and emission values having 95% accuracy compared to experimental findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Neonatal sepsis is one of the leading causes of neonatal deaths in neonatal intensive care units. Hence, it is essential to review the evidence from systematic reviews on interventions for reducing late-onset sepsis (LOS) in neonates. PubMed and the Cochrane Central were searched from inception through August 2020 without any language restriction. Cochrane reviews of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) assessing any intervention in the neonatal period and including one or more RCTs reporting LOS. Two authors independently performed screening, data extraction, assessed the quality of evidence using Cochrane Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation, and assessed the quality of reviews using a measurement tool to assess of multiple systematic reviews 2 tool. A total of 101 high-quality Cochrane reviews involving 612 RCTs and 193,713 neonates, evaluating 141 interventions were included. High-quality evidence showed a reduction in any or culture-proven LOS using antibiotic lock therapy for neonates with central venous catheters (CVC). Moderate-quality evidence showed a decrease in any LOS with antibiotic prophylaxis or vancomycin prophylaxis for neonates with CVC, chlorhexidine for skin or cord care, and kangaroo care for low birth weight babies. Similarly, moderate-quality evidence showed reduced culture-proven LOS with intravenous immunoglobulin prophylaxis for preterm infants and probiotic supplementation for very low birth weight (VLBW) infants. Lastly, moderate-quality evidence showed a reduction in fungal LOS with the use of systemic antifungal prophylaxis in VLBW infants. The overview summarizes the evidence from the Cochrane reviews assessing interventions for reducing LOS in neonates, and can be utilized by clinicians, researchers, policymakers, and consumers for decision-making and translating evidence into clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of existing literature to evaluate the incidence of cranial ultrasound abnormalities (CUAs) amongst moderate to late preterm (MLPT) and term infants, affected by fetal growth restriction (FGR) or those classified as small for gestational age (SGA). Methods: A systematic review methodology was performed, and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement was utilised. Descriptive and observational studies reporting cranial ultrasound outcomes on FGR/SGA MLPT and term infants were included. Primary outcomes reported was incidence of CUAs in MLPT and term infants affected by FGR or SGA, with secondary outcomes including brain structure development and growth, and cerebral artery Dopplers. A random-effects model meta-analysis was performed. Risk of Bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale for case–control and cohort studies, and Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for studies reporting prevalence data. GRADE was used to assess for certainty of evidence. Results: Out of a total of 2085 studies identified through the search, seventeen were deemed to be relevant and included. Nine studies assessed CUAs in MLPT FGR/SGA infants, seven studies assessed CUAs in late preterm and term FGR/SGA infants, and one study assessed CUAs in both MLPT and term FGR/SGA infants. The incidence of CUAs in MLPT, and late preterm to term FGR/SGA infants ranged from 0.4 to 33% and 0 to 70%, respectively. A meta-analysis of 7 studies involving 168,136 infants showed an increased risk of any CUA in FGR infants compared to appropriate for gestational age (AGA) infants (RR 1.96, [95% CI 1.26–3.04], I2 = 68%). The certainty of evidence was very low due to non-randomised studies, methodological limitations, and heterogeneity. Another meta-analysis looking at 4 studies with 167,060 infants showed an increased risk of intraventricular haemorrhage in FGR/SGA infants compared to AGA infants (RR 2.40, [95% CI 2.03–2.84], I2 = 0%). This was also of low certainty. Conclusions: The incidence of CUAs in MLPT and term growth-restricted infants varied widely between studies. Findings from the meta-analyses suggest the risk of CUAs and IVH may indeed be increased in these FGR/SGA infants when compared with infants not affected by FGR, however the evidence is of low to very low certainty. Further specific cohort studies are needed to fully evaluate the benefits and prognostic value of cranial ultrasonography to ascertain the need for, and timing of a cranial ultrasound screening protocol in this infant population, along with follow-up studies to ascertain the significance of CUAs identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a new procedure for drying of cashew kernels is proposed. The new methodology involves the use of solar air dryers to remove the dark sticky coating called testa on the surface of the cashew kernel to get the final product. There are several challenges in the new procedures, especially with respect to the moisture level to be retained in the cashew kernel post drying for facilitating the optimal peeling activity. In this regard, thermal performance is carried out through a set of experimental and computational trials. The experiments have revealed that the natural and forced convection solar dryers with drying speeds of 1.0 kg/h and 1.66 kg/h, respectively, showed drying efficiencies of 51.7% and 50.9%, which is within the permissible acceptable limit, thus ascertaining a moisture reduction of 40 to 42% in each of case and keeping the moisture content within the band of approximately 5%, required for effective peeling of the testa from the cashew kernel to obtain the final product. This new method has resulted in batch drying of cashew kernels of up to 30 kg capacity in a time span of 360 minutes of solar irradiation with an average consumption of 255 kJ. The results of the experiments are also validated from the artificial neural network (ANN) and response surface methodology (RSM) modelling, resulting in better prediction and optimization of the performance parameters. The error between the actual and experimental values is well within the permissible limit of +/-5%, thereby correlating the experimental and statistical values for deriving an ANN model for predicting the results for different time duration and solar irradiation. In this way, the thermal analysis of the solar dryers for drying cashew kernels has resulted in findings, which shall be utilized to improve the overall performance efficiency and the methodology adopted for maximum yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective  To systematically review the methods for estimating endotracheal tube (ETT) insertion depth in neonates. Study Design  Medline, Embase, Cochrane Central, and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature databases searched for randomized clinical trials (RCTs). RCTs comparing two or more different methods to estimate ETT insertion depth were included. Two co-authors independently extracted the data and assessed the risk of bias. The primary outcome includes the proportion of optimally placed ETT tips identified on chest X-ray. Results  Eight RCTs evaluating seven different estimation methods were included. Trials varied defining the optimal position of the ETT tip. Overall, the percentage of optimal position ranged from 8.8 to 93%. The weight, gestation nomogram, and vocal cord estimation methods resulted in malpositioning of ETT tips in more than half of infants ≤30 weeks' gestational age. The rates of optimal ETT tip placement with the digital palpation method differ between moderately (83–93%; two RCTs) and extremely (47%; one RCT) preterm infants. Meta-analysis showed no difference between weight-based and digital palpation methods (relative risk = 0.88; 95% confidence interval = 0.75–1.04; three RCTs; participants = 205; I 2  = 0%; quality of evidence, low). Conclusion  Commonly used estimation methods for ETT tip placement are inaccurate and unreliable. Further research is required to improve the accuracy of estimation methods and also to identify the usefulness of the digital palpation method in large clinical trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This survey aimed to understand the physicians' practice pattern and challenges faced while treating their patients with asthma in five countries-Malaysia, Nepal, Myanmar, Morocco and Lebanon. Questionnaire-based data was gathered from internal medicine doctors (209), general practitioners (206), chest physicians (152) and pediatricians (58) from 232 locations from across the five countries. Of the 816 physicians, 374 physicians encountered at least 5 asthma patients daily. Approximately, 38% physicians always used spirometry for diagnosis and only 12% physicians always recommended Peak flow meter (PFM) for home-monitoring. Salmeterol/fluticasone (71%) followed by formoterol/budesonide (38%) were the most preferred ICS/long-acting beta2-agonists (LABA); Salbutamol (78%) was the most preferred reliever medication. 60% physicians said >40% of their patients were apprehensive to use inhalers. 72% physicians preferred a pressurized metered-dose inhaler (pMDI) to a dry powder inhaler (DPI) with only a third of them using a spacer with the pMDI. 71% physicians believed that using similar device for controller and reliever can be beneficial to patients. Skipping medicines in absence of symptoms (64%), incorrect inhaler technique (48%) and high cost of medication (49%) were considered as major reasons for non-adherence by most physicians. Incorrect inhaler technique (66%) and nonadherence (59%) were considered the most common causes of poor asthma control. There are opportunities to improve the use of diagnostic and monitoring tools for asthma. Non-adherence, incorrect inhaler technique and cost remain a challenge to achieve good asthma control. Asthma education, including correct demonstration of inhaler, can potentially help to improve inhaler adherence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research is entitled " Integrated Tourism Development Study ." In Increasing Tourist Visits and the Regional Economy Southeast Sulawesi Province ”. This research activity was carried out as an effort to assist the Southeast Sulawesi Provincial government in solving economic problems based on efforts to improve the tourism sector so that it can contribute more to the acquisition of Regional Original Income (PAD) and the community's economy. This research was carried out with the aim of optimizing development area tourist integrated in Southeast Sulawesi Province. Obtain a management model for managing tourist destinations in order to achieve tourism development that can increase PAD and the community's economy. Obtain strategies and concepts for integrated tourism development in Southeast Sulawesi Province. This research uses quantitative descriptive analysis, inferential statistical analysis with the SEM-PLS model and SWOT analysis. This research is expected to be able to show that the development of the tourism sector can increase PAD acquisition and community economic progress Southeast Sulawesi Province area . The research results show that: Optimizing development area tourist integration in Sulawesi Province can be done by: (a) developing the number and quality of facilities and infrastructure; (b) Development of arrangements for diversification of tourist destinations; and (c) data and information development. Integrated tourism development in Southeast Sulawesi requires collaboration between the government, local communities and tourism industry players to achieve sustainable and inclusive goals. The strategy and concept of integrated tourism development in Southeast Sulawesi Province in Southeast Sulawesi is a stabilization strategy (WO), namely taking advantage of opportunities related to the existence of tourist destinations that are very attractive and have the potential to be developed in several regions as well as correcting weaknesses in tourism management which so far have not been integrated and integrated regarding the development of tourist facilities and infrastructure, institutional tourist attractions and promotional activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective  This study aimed to systematically review and meta-analyze the role of lactoferrin supplementation to prevent late-onset sepsis (LOS) in preterm infants. Study Design  Database search include PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane central for randomized clinical trial (RCTs). The Cochrane Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation methodology was used for summarizing the results. Results  Ten RCTs involving 3,679 infants were included. Lactoferrin supplementation with or without probiotics decreased all LOS (relative risk [RR]: 0.56; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.36–0.86; I 2  = 58%; 10 studies; 3,470 subjects; level of evidence [LOE]: low) significantly. Similarly, lactoferrin supplementation without probiotics decreased all LOS (RR: 0.43; 95% CI: 0.29–0.62; I 2  = 0%; 8 studies; 1,209 subjects; LOE: moderate) significantly. Lactoferrin supplementation did not significantly reduce necrotizing enterocolitis (RR: 0.62; 95% CI: 0.29–1.33; I 2  = 43%; 6 studies; 3,079 subjects; LOE: low), all-cause mortality (RR: 0.74; 95% CI: 0.36–1.53; I 2  = 53%; 8 studies; 3,395 subjects; LOE: very low), bronchopulmonary dysplasia (RR: 1; 95% CI: 0.90–1.13; I 2  = 0%; 4 studies; 2,570 subjects; LOE: moderate), and threshold retinopathy of prematurity eligible for surgical treatment (RR: 0.61; 95% CI: 0.25–1.51; I 2  = 74%; 2 studies; 2,481 subjects; LOE: very low). Conclusion  Low to moderate quality evidence suggests that lactoferrin supplementation reduces LOS in preterm infants. Further research is needed to improve the certainty in the evidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agriculture nowadays faces numerous issues because of the fast growth in food demand and environmental considerations. Due to the rapid depletion of agricultural areas and soil quality caused by a continuously growing population and the excessive addition of chemical fertilizers, rehabilitated consideration is required for sustaining viable crop production methods. Biochar (BC) use in agricultural soils has garnered considerable interest. BCs offer significant agricultural and environmental advantages, including improved soil health, enhanced crop growth and production, carbon sequestration, reduced greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and nutrient dynamics regulation. BC application in agricultural systems is influenced by various parameters, including pyrolysis temperature, feedstock composition, dosage and procedure, nature of the soil, crop varieties, and biotic interactions that substantially impact the efficacy of BC under varying environmental conditions. BC improved nitrogen mineralization and plant absorption by modifying the rhizosphere's abiotic and microbiological activities. Thus, BC increased the plant's resistance to pathogens, decreased the availability of heavy metals (HMs), and promoted the plant's tolerance to environmental challenges. Nonetheless, BC application is hazardous in certain circumstances. This review discusses the advantages, drawbacks, and future developments of applying BC to agricultural soils. By providing an extensive assessment of the advantages and limitations of BC integration in agriculture soil conditioning, this review is highly informative regarding the development of soil and crop-specific BC with the appropriate properties. It could help increase agriculture yield, ensure food security, and enhance environmental management. In addition, this review highlights knowledge deficits and proposes future perspectives for commercializing large-scale BC applications. • BC's prime physiochemistry makes BC-amended soils ideal in environments. • BC enhances plant productivity, nutrition, disease, and stress control. • BC reduces agricultural CO 2 and CH 4 emissions. • Before using BC in agricultural soils, vital to study possible drawbacks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main function of Sulphur Recovery Unit (SRU) is to recover 99.2% of sulphur from the feed of Amine Regeneration Unit (ARU) and Sour Water Treating Unit (SWTU). Hotspot related problem or localized burning can be detrimental to the SRU material lifespan. One of the causes of the hotspot is susceptible high vibration level of multi-components in SRU. Downing of SRU in any refinery plant leads to unplanned losses in revenue. Thus, thorough routine maintenance needs to be performed to avoid such disruption. In this project, the method of repairing part of the SRU reheater external wall is presented. External patch fillet is introduced to seal the damaged reheater external shell wall. Before the maintaining process, the root cause of the problem is first examined. Fitness for service (FFS) is also performed to ensure that the repair method is sufficient for continuous operation. The obtained results from the assessments were used to conduct the required repair services. All assessment and repair methods are based on the guidelines set by the relevant codes and standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate short-term respiratory outcomes, mortality and bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) in preterm infants born to mothers with and without pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH).Methods: Exposed infants <33 weeks' gestation were matched to controls in a 1:2 ratio, based on gestation, sex and antenatal steroid exposure in this retrospective cohort study. Primary outcomes were a novel cumulative respiratory index (cRI) (product of mean airway pressure-hours and FiO2-hours while on invasive ventilation during first 72 hours), mortality and BPD.Results: Seventy-nine exposed infants were matched with 158 controls. cRI was higher in exposed infants (median 1854; IQR 186-13,901) versus controls (median 1359; IQR 210-11,302) but not statistically significant (p = .63). On conditional regression analysis, PIH did not predict cRI (adjusted β = 0.96; 95% CI = 0.79-1.17; p = .712). No association between PIH and mortality (unadjusted odds ratio [OR] = 3.14; 95% CI = 0.76-13.0; p=.11) was identified. PIH was significantly associated with BPD on univariate analysis (OR = 2.29; 95% CI = 1.02-5.17; p=.046), but not after adjustment (aOR = 1.26; 95% CI = 0.38-4.19; p=.7).Conclusions: PIH was not associated with cRI, mortality or BPD in this study. Further validation of cRI and exploration of its relationship with PIH as well as neonatal outcomes is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Erythropoietin (EPO) appears to confer neuroprotection to the injured brain. Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) have demonstrated its safety in neonates with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE); however, the evidence is unclear. The objective of this study was to examine the role of EPO in perinatal HIE by a systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods: Database search included Embase, MEDLINE, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL). RCTs reporting a death, neurodevelopmental outcomes or brain injury were included. Two authors extracted the data independently from included studies and assessed the level of evidence (LOE). Results: Six RCTs (EPO = 5 and darbepoetin α = 1) involving 454 neonates were included. A trend toward a lower risk of death was identified in infants treated with EPO [EPO with or without hypothermia: five RCTs, 368 participants, relative risk (RR) 0.74, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.47-1.19, LOE - low; EPO without hypothermia: four RCTs, 318 participants, RR 0.89, 95% CI 0.49-1.32, LOE - low]. EPO treatment without hypothermia compared to placebo resulted in a reduced risk of cerebral palsy (two RCTs, 230 participants, RR 0.47, 95% CI 0.27-0.80, LOE - moderate) and moderate to severe cognitive impairment (two RCTs, 226 participants, RR 0.49, 95% CI 0.28-0.85, LOE - moderate). A reduced risk of brain injury was identified in EPO treated infants (EPO with or without hypothermia, two RCTs, 148 participants, RR 0.70, 95% CI 0.53-0.92, LOE - moderate). Conclusion: EPO administration in neonates with perinatal HIE reduces the risk of brain injury, cerebral palsy and cognitive impairment. The evidence is limited to suggest its role as an adjuvant to hypothermia. Larger powered trials are underway to overcome this limitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A hybrid renewable power generation system is proposed through parallel connection between two potential energy resources: photovoltaic (PV) and wind turbines. The method consists of incorporating a buck converter connected by a wind turbine to provide adjustment according to PV potential. Unlike the conventional buck-boost converter topology that is normally used, this research tries to emphasize the use of a buck converter as part of the system configuration. Design schemes were carefully performed and the postdesign system was tested through system simulation with MATLAB/Simulink software. The simulated system offers promising and significant results, thus making it suitable for hardware implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rhodamine B is a toxic dye due to its carcinogenic, neurotoxic, and disease-causing properties. Appertaining to the removal of Rhodamine B, the adsorption with biomass residues adsorbent demonstrated positive results. The primary objective was to evaluate the feasibility of various adsorbents used throughout recent years to remove Rhodamine B dye from wastewater. Biomass residues and adsorbents as an alternative to activation have garnered considerable interest among researchers. Microbial enzymes and biomass eliminated Rhodamine B at approximately 76% and 90.1%. In contrast, the adsorption of white sugar using biomass residues, especially AC, achieved 98% in 12 min. Due to the zwitterionic forms of Rhodamine B, the adsorption process has a broad pH range (3–10). Gamhar leaves AC is one of the agriculture waste absorbents with an adsorption capacity of 1000 mg g−1. The biomass residue adsorbents appeared to have a high potential for removing Rhodamine B from wastewater. [Display omitted] • Biomass residue adsorbents for eco-friendly Rhodamine B removal. • Biomass residue adsorbents appeared as an alternative for Rhodamine B removal from wastewater. • Researchers have received significant attention for using agricultural wastes and adsorbents to replace activated carbon. • Agricultural waste adsorbents remove RhB from wastewater effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stem cells are emerging as an attractive option because of their intrinsic ability as vectors for drug delivery to diseased tissues. The term stem cells or stem cells was first introduced by a Russian histologist, Alexander Maksimov (1874-1928). The purpose of this study is to describe the research and development of stem cell applications for stroke. This study is a literature study (review article) regarding stem cells (stem cells) in stroke which has been discussed in several scientific journals. From several articles that have been collected in giving stem cells to people with stroke, namely in bone marrow. MSC (Mesenchymal Stem Cell) is a multipotent stem cell from bone marrow and Adult SPM and because of its high applicability. Bone marrow is a rich source of hematopoietic stem cells so it can be applied to stroke patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Foot plantar pressure is the pressure field that acts between the foot and the support surface during everyday locomotor activities. Information derived from such pressure measures is important in gait and posture research for diagnosing lower limb problems, footwear design, sport biomechanics, injury prevention and other applications. This paper reviews foot plantar sensors characteristics as reported in the literature in addition to foot plantar pressure measurement systems applied to a variety of research problems. Strengths and limitations of current systems are discussed and a wireless foot plantar pressure system is proposed suitable for measuring high pressure distributions under the foot with high accuracy and reliability. The novel system is based on highly linear pressure sensors with no hysteresis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a rare complication of nephrotic syndrome and corticosteroid therapy. Here, we discuss an 18 year old man with type 1 membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN) secondary to hepatitis B infection who developed posterior leukoencephalopathy while on therapy with lamivudine and prednisone. He developed seizures and vision loss. He also had hypertension, but no sudden elevation was recorded at any time. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed patchy areas of altered signal intensity involving cortical gray and subcortical white matter in the bilateral frontoparietal regions, occipital cortices, temporal cortices and cerebellar hemispheres, and hyperintensity on T2W and FLAIR sequences. Tapering of prednisone and controlling hypertension resulted in clinical improvement within a few days, and in a month MRI was normal. Diagnosing PRES requires a high index of suspicion when treating similarly susceptible patients. PRES as a complication during the treatment of MPGN secondary to hepatitis B has, to our knowledge, never been reported previously in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Steel-wood-steel connection is widely seen in many applications, such as timber structures. The stiffness of steel-wood-steel connection loaded parallel to grain for softwoods originated from Malaysia was investigated in this study. Numerical models have been developed in ABAQUS to study the stiffness connection. Softwoods of Damar Minyak and Podo have been selected in this analysis. The comprehensive study focused on the effect of bolt configurations on stiffness. Numerical analysis is carried out and the developed model has been validated with the previous study. Further investigations have been made by using the validated model. From this model, numerical analysis of the stiffness values have been made for various bolt configurations, including bolt diameter, end distance, bolt spacing, number of rows and bolts and edge distance. The result shows that the stiffness of bolted timber connections for softwood depends on the bolt diameter, number of rows and bolts, end distance and edge distance. Based on the result, stiffness increased as the diameter of the bolt, end distance, number of rows and bolts and edge distance increased. It is also discovered that the stiffness equation in Eurocode 5 (EC5) is inadequate as the equation only considered parameters which are wood density and bolt diameter. Other connection parameters such as geometry are not considered in the EC5 equation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extrinsic compression of the Left Main Coronary Artery (LMCA) by a dilated pulmonary artery is a rare but a treatable cause of angina in patients with Pulmonary Artery Hypertension (PAH). In majority of these patients, angina is attributed to right ventricular or left ventricular demand ischemia and in the absence of cardiovascular risk factors for atherosclerosis, they rarely undergo a coronary angiogram. So this rare diagnosis may be missed in such patients and optimal management delayed. In this case report we describe a patient of PAH secondary to Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA), presenting with heart failure and complaining of persistent angina, due to extrinsic compression of the ostial LMCA by the dilated pulmonary artery, treated successfully by Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI). This case reminds us that in all patients of pulmonary hypertension presenting with angina and left ventricular dysfunction, this rare but treatable cause should be identified by coronary angiography and treated with PCI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen has been identified as a clean and renewable energy source that has a significant potential to replace fossil fuels. The effective production of hydrogen on a commercial scale, however, presents a vital obstacle in today's world. Water splitting electrolysis, which offers high energy conversion and storage capabilities, has emerged as a promising approach for achieving the efficient hydrogen production to address this issue. This experimental research focuses on the production of hydrogen-oxygen gas through the electrolysis process. HHO gas provides promising benefits in terms of better combustion and lower emissions. Therefore, it also focuses on how best HHO gas can be utilized in diesel engines to improve the performance and to reduce the emissions. HHO gas produced at 60 L per hour through electrolysis process is mixed with air in a mixing chamber. Also, Palm munja methyl ester of 10% and diesel fuel of 90% was volumetrically blended to get B10 biodiesel. Therefore, totally four test fuels (Diesel, Diesel + HHO, B10, and B10 + HHO) were tested on a single-cylinder Kirloskar water-cooled direct injection diesel engine under different engine speeds ranging from 1447 to 1550 rpm. The engine injector pressure was varied from 200, 220, and 240 bar during the experiments with an interval of 20 bar. The engine has been modified for hydrogen and oxygen inlet at the entrance manifold 6 cm away at an angle of 30°. The results shows that at 200 bar injection pressure with B10 + HHO blend exhibits better performance and released lower emissions. The performance results also show that the brake thermal efficiency was improved up to 14.16%, and the brake power was increased by 3.22%, while the brake-specific fuel consumption is reduced by 11.53%. The emission results show that CO, HC, NOx, and CO 2 emissions were reduced by 20.87%, 11.47%, 1.96%, and 5.22%, respectively. Therefore, it can be concluded that B10 + HHO provides better performance and the lowest emissions compared with other blends. • Hydroxyl gas HHO gas was produced by the electrolysis process. • Produced HHO gas introduced to the diesel engine. • Performed the variation of injection pressure and engine loads. • Detailed discussion on the engine performance, and emission behaviours. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A letter to the editor is presented about a case of vasomotor instability in a preterm neonate that causes hypotension and acrocyanosis.

Kenaf belongs to the family Malvaceae noted for their economic and horticultural importance. Kenaf seed is a valuable component of kenaf plant. For several years, it has been primarily used as a cordage crop and secondarily as a livestock feed. The potential for using kenaf seeds as a source of food‐based products has not been fully exploited. Consumers are becoming more interested in naturally healthy plant‐based food products. Kenaf seed, the future crop with a rich source of essential nutrients and an excellent source of phytocompounds, might serve suitable roles in the production of value‐added plant‐based foods. At present kenaf seed and its value‐added components have not been effectively utilized for both their nutritional and functional properties as either ingredient or major constituent of food products. This review focuses on the possible food applications of kenaf seed and its value‐added components based on their nutritional composition and functional properties available in literature, with the purpose of providing an overview on the possible food applications of this underutilized seed. The review focuses on a brief introduction on kenaf plant, nutritional function, lipids and proteins composition and food applications of the seed. The review elaborately discusses the seed in terms of; bioactive components, antioxidants enrichment of wheat bread, antimicrobial agents, as edible flour, as edible oil and a source of protein in food system. The review closes with discussion on other possible food applications of kenaf seed. The need for food scientists and technologists to exploit this natural agricultural product as a value‐added food ingredient is of great significance and is emphasized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The traditional way to machine hybrid composites is hard because they tend to break, have a high retraction, have a high service temperature, and have an uneven surface irregularity. For high-strength fiber/metal composite constructions, alternative machining methods have drawn interest as a solution to these problems. Current research focuses on enhancing the Abrasive Water Jet Machining process by optimizing its variables using a composite material of epoxy reinforced with silicon carbide, stainless steel wire mesh, and Kevlar. The variables assessed are the Nozzle-to-substrate gap (S), the Abrasive discharge molding and different percentages of silicon carbide (SiC) filler (0%, 3%, and 6% by weight), three different types of hybrid laminates (H1, H2, and H3) were produced. The response surface method (RSM) was utilized in this learning, specifically on a central composite design, to calculate and optimize machining variables based on the Kerf convergence ratio (Kt) and Surface irregularity (Ra) as responses. According to the results, the traverse feed velocity, Abrasive discharge proportion, and Nozzle-to-substrate gap are the critical factors in determining Surface irregularity and Kerf convergence width (H1 laminate) for a fiber/metal laminate with 0%, 3% and 6% weight fraction. In the case of a 3% weight fraction H2 laminate, the traverse feed velocity was identified as the primary factor affecting the Kerf convergence ratio. In contrast, traverse feed velocity and Nozzle-to-substrate gap had the most significant influence on Surface irregularity. The findings also indicated that S, followed by Abrasive discharge proportion and traverse feed velocity, are the variables that have the most significant influence when cutting 6 wt% SiC filler particle fiber/metal laminate (H3 laminate). For Surface irregularity, the combination of traverse feed velocity and Nozzle-to-substrate gap had the most significant impact. To validate the optimization results, confirmatory tests was conducted, and the findings were very similar to the experimental values, indicating the accuracy and effectiveness of the optimization process. To better understand the manufacturing processes, a scanning electron microscope was used to examine the morphological features of the machined surfaces, such as delamination, fibre breakage, and fibre pull-out. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comparative thermal analysis of water and engine coolant oil in a helical coil tube and shell heat exchanger is performed. The experimental study is carried out in parallel and counter flow conditions with laminar flow of the fluids. Various factors like heat transfer coefficient, friction factor, pressure drop, and pumping power for different fluid flow rates of 0.25 lpm (litre per minute), 0.5 lpm, and 0.75 lpm along tube side and shell side are compared. The other common factors of the heat exchanger along tube and shell side like overall heat transfer coefficient, NTU (Number of Transfer Units), LMTD (Log Mean Temperature Difference), effectiveness, and average heat transfer coefficient are also analysed for variation in flow rates. The variation of overall heat transfer coefficient is also compared with different non-dimensional numbers such as He (Helical Number), De (Dean Number), LMTD, and NTU. The maximum enhancement % of various heat transfer characteristics comparative to water in parallel flow condition is provided. For coolant oil in counter flow condition, the average heat transfer is enhanced by 63.3%, convective heat transfer coefficient by 42.7%, and overall heat transfer coefficient by 98.9% compared to parallel flow of water. It is also observed that counter flow of water provides more enhanced heat transfer (18.7%) than parallel flow of coolant oil. Finally it is concluded that in helical tube and shell type of heat exchanger the counter flow with coolant oil as a coolant is more effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of present investigation is twofold, one to determine the effect of operational parameter on maximum temperature (Hot spots temperature) in heat generating (uniform and non-uniform) vertical parallel plates and two is to find out the position of maximum temperature (hot spots location) when plates are placed apart at optimum spacing (Bopt). A conjugate two dimensional laminar forced convection analysis is carried out in which the equations regulating the heat and fluid flow are solved by using finite difference numerical technique and the obtained algebraic equations are solved by using Thomas algorithm. The parameters viz Reynolds Number (ReH), Conduction-Convection parameter (Ncc), Heat generation parameter (Qt), and Prandtl Number (Pr), Spacing between the plates (B) were considered for present study, while the aspect ratio (Ar) of the plate is kept constant. The major outcome of present study says that the location of hot spot is mainly affected by ReH and mode of heat generation (uniform and non-uniform). It is also found that the spacing between the plates (B), ReH, Pr and Ncc play a major role in reducing the hotspots temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]