Sick sinus syndrome (SSS) is a disease of sinus rhythm abnormalities. This study aimed to establish an SSS model by injecting 3% NaOH into the jugular vein(JV). Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into sham, 3% NaOH, and 10% NaOH groups. Anesthetized rats underwent electrocardiogram recording before right JV exposure. Rats in the experimental groups received NaOH injections at 0.01 ml/s, while the sham group did not. Model success was evaluated after one hour. Heart rate(HR) and rhythm were documented at 1 hour, 1 week, and 2 weeks post-molding, including HE staining, membrane ion transcription and expression, and calcium ion content test. In the 3% NaOH group, the model establishment rate was 87%, and the mortality rate was 13%, whereas in the 10% NaOH group, they were 57% and 43% respectively (P < 0.01). The HR of the 3% NaOH group decreased at multiple time points post-molding (P < 0.001), presenting as arrhythmias such as sinus bradycardia. The JV sustained less damage, with necrosis of P cells, changes in membrane ion channels, and reduced calcium ion distribution. In conclusion, JV injection of 3% NaOH can establish the SSS model and benefit animals.

The signaling complex around voltage-gated sodium (Nav) channels includes accessory proteins and kinases crucial for regulating neuronal firing. Previous studies showed that one such kinase, WEE1—critical to the cell cycle—selectively modulates Nav1.2 channel activity through the accessory protein fibroblast growth factor 14 (FGF14). Here, we tested whether WEE1 exhibits crosstalk with the AKT/GSK3 pathway for coordinated regulation of FGF14/Nav1.2 channel complex assembly and function. Using the in-cell split luciferase complementation assay (LCA), we found that the WEE1 inhibitor II and GSK3 inhibitor XIII reduce FGF14/Nav1.2 complex formation, while the AKT inhibitor triciribine increases it. However, combining WEE1 inhibitor II with either one of the other two inhibitors abolished its effect on FGF14/Nav1.2 complex formation. Whole-cell voltage-clamp recordings of sodium currents (INa) in HEK293 cells co-expressing Nav1.2 channels and FGF14-GFP showed that WEE1 inhibitor II significantly suppresses peak INa density, both alone and in the presence of triciribine or GSK3 inhibitor XIII, despite the latter inhibitors’ opposite effects on INa. Additionally, WEE1 inhibitor II slowed the tau of fast inactivation, and caused depolarizing shifts in the voltage dependence of activation and inactivation. These phenotypes either prevailed or were additive when combined with triciribine but were outcompeted when both WEE1 inhibitor II and GSK3 inhibitor XIII were present. Concerted regulation by WEE1 inhibitor II, triciribine and GSK3 inhibitor XIII were also observed on long-term inactivation and use-dependence of Nav1.2 currents. Overall, these findings suggest a complex role for WEE1 kinase—in concert with the AKT/GSK3 pathway—in regulating the Nav1.2 channelosome.

The beneficial effects of Lanthanide incorporation into 0.94Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3-0.06BaTiO3 (BNT-BT) matrix on its functional properties were investigated. The conventional solid-state method was used for synthesizing samples. The structural refinement revealed that all samples crystallized in R3c rhombohedral symmetry. Raman spectroscopy study was carried out using green laser excitation and revealed that no clear perceptible variation in frequency is observed. Dielectric measurements unveiled that the introduction of rare earth obstructed the depolarization temperature promoted in BNT-BT with decreasing the diffusive phase transition with increasing the lanthanide size. Only Dysprosium addition showed comparable diffusion constant and dielectric behavior as the unmodified composition. Further, the comparison of the obtained ferroelectric hysteresis and strain-electric field loops revealed that only Dy-phase exhibited interesting properties comparing parent composition. In addition, the incorporation of lanthanides Ln3+ into the BNT-BT matrix led to the development of luminescence characteristics in the visible and near infrared regions, depending on the excitation wavelengths. The simultaneous occurrence of photoluminescence and ferroelectric/piezoelectric properties opens up possibilities for BNT-BT-Ln to exhibit multifunctionality in a wide range of applications.Keywords: Sodium Bismuth Titanate; structural refinement; dielectric properties; ferroelectric properties; piezoelectric properties; Photoluminescence.

The application of chitosan and alginate coatings for Ready-to-Eat (RTE) baked fish product were studied. An experimental design was used to investigate the effect of coating polysaccharide concentration and glycerol addition on the safety (microbial growth), and quality (water loss and lipid oxidation) of RTE seafood product under optimal, and abused storage conditions. The results showed that a chitosan coating with 1% (w/v) chitosan in 1% (v/v) acetic acid, and 15% (w/w chitosan) glycerol, or 1% (w/v) alginate coating with no glycerol, and no crosslinking showed the best performance in controlling the tested safety and quality parameters. Desirability method was used to identify the shelf life of chitosan, alginate and double coated RTE products. Whereby, chitosan coated samples showed the best performance with a third fold shelf life extension compared to uncoated products.

Many studies have been conducted using pectin for modified drug delivery. In this regard, the goal of the work was to obtain interpolyelectrolyte complexes based on citrus or apple pectin and the Eudragit® EPO and study properties from the standpoint of using these carriers for oral drug delivery. Turbidity, gravimetry, viscosity, elementary analysis and FTIR spectroscopy, DSC analysis were used for physicochemical characterization. Diffusion-transport characteristics were studied to assess the swelling ability of the matrices and the release of diclofenac sodium. Mathematical modeling of the release parameters was carried out using the Krosmayer-Peppas equation. During the turbidity study, stoichiometry compositions were selected for the studied IPECs EPO/PeсA and EPO/PeсC at pH values = 4.0, 5.0, 6.0, 7.0. FTIR spectra of the complexes are characterized by an increase in the intensity of the bands at 1610 cm-1 and 1400 cm-1. According to the DSC analysis IPEC has a certain Tg = 57.3°C. The highest release rates are shown by IPEC EPO/PecC_1 and EPO/PecC_4. The mechanism of drug transport from the matrices IPEC EPO/PecC, IPEC EPO/PecA_3 and EPO/PecA_4 can be characterized as Super Case II. Anomalous (non-Fickian release) is typical for IPEC EPO/PecA_1 and EPO/PecA_2. Thus, the resulting systems are suitable for colon-specific drug delivery systems.

COVID-19 patients suffer from detrimental effects of cytokine storm and not much success has been achieved to overcome this issue. We sought to test the ability of selenium in reducing the impact of two important cytokine storm players; IL-6 and TNF-a. The effects of four selenium compounds were evaluated on the secretion of these cytokines from THP-1 macrophages in vitro following LPS challenge. Also, potential impact of methylseleninic acid (MSeA) on Nrf2 and IkBa was determined following short treatment of THP-1 macrophages. MSeA was observed to be the most potent selenium form to reduce IL-6 and TNF-a levels among the four selenium compounds tested. In addition, an increase in Nrf2 and decrease in pIkBa in human macrophages was observed following MSeA treatment. Our data indicate that COVID-19 patients might benefit by suppressing their cytokine storm with addition of MSeA to the standard therapy.

Sodium butyrate (NaB) is one of the short-chain fatty acids and is notably produced in large amounts from dietary fiber in the gut. Recent evidence suggests that NaB induces cell proliferation and apoptosis. The skeletal muscle is rich in plenty of mitochondrial. However, it is unclear how NaB acts on host muscle cells and whether it is involved in mitochondria-related functions in myocytes. The present study aimed to investigate the role of NaB treatment on the proliferation, apoptosis, and mitophagy of bovine skeletal muscle satellite cells (BSCs). The results showed that NaB inhibited the proliferation and promoted apoptosis of BSCs, and promoted mitophagy in a time and dose-dependent manner in BSCs. In addition, 1mM NaB increased the mitochondrial ROS level, decreased the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), increased the number of autophagic vesicles in mitochondria, and increased the mitochondrial DNA(mtDNA) and ATP level. The effects of the mTOR pathway on BSCs were investigated, and the results showed that 1mM NaB inhibited the mRNA and protein expression of mTOR and genes AKT1, FOXO1, and EIF4EBP1 in the mTOR signaling pathway, while the addition of PP242, an inhibitor of the mTOR signaling pathway, also inhibited mRNA and protein expression levels of mTOR, AKT1, FOXO1, and EIF4EBP1, and promoted mitophagy and apoptosis, which were consistent with the effect of NaB treatment. In conclusion, NaB might promote mitophagy and apoptosis in BSCs by inhibiting the mTOR signaling pathway. Our results would expand the knowledge of sodium butyrate on bovine skeletal muscle cell state and mitochondrial function.

Neuropsychiatric disorders are globally public-health concern, in which diagnosis might be based on symptoms that often vary across individuals. Schizophrenia is one of the major neuropsychiatric disorders, which may affect millions worldwide. Detection of predictive biomarkers is the most intensively developing approach for the disease. However, the biochemical alterations have not been comprehensively distinguished up to the present time. In addition, there is less confidence of finding a specific biomarker for neuropsychiatric disorders including schizophrenia, but rather a specific characteristic behavioral pattern. Maternal immune activation has been considered to be one of the important factors for the development of neuropsychiatric disorders. Here, the mouse model of neuropsychiatric disorders has been built, in which poly-I:C, sodium dextran sulfate (DSS) and κ-carrageenan (CGN) were used for the maternal immune activation during the pregnancy of individuals. Subsequently, we challenged to link some of biochemical changes of p62 and GLAST in the offspring mice brain to the alteration of several pathological behaviors. Consequently, it has been shown that autophagy might be involved in the development of neuropsychiatric disorders including schizophrenia. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the significant correlation between pathological behavior and the biochemical alterations in neuropsychiatric disorder model animals. The relative ease of conducting these evaluation-tasks would make them useful for testing novel therapeutics designed to ameliorate the symptoms of several psychiatric disorders.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect that Glycine max hydrolyzed with enzymes from Bacillus velezensis KMU01 has on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis in mice. Hydrolysis improves functional health through the bioconversion of raw materials and increase in intestinal absorption rate and antioxidants. Therefore, G. max was hydrolyzed in this study using a food-derived microorganism, and its anti-inflammatory effect observed. Enzymatically hydrolyzed G. max (EHG) was orally administered once daily for four weeks before DSS treatment. Colitis was induced in mice through consumption of 5% (w/v) DSS in drinking water for eight days. Results showed that EHG treatment significantly alleviated DSS-induced body weight loss and decreased the disease activity index and colon length. In addition, EHG markedly reduced tumor necrosis factor-a, interleukin (IL)-1b, and IL-6 production, and increased that of IL-10. EHG improved DSS-induced histological changes and intestinal epithelial barrier integrity in mice. Moreover, we found that the abundance of 15 microorganisms changed significantly; that of Proteobacteria and Escherichia coli, which are upregulated in patients with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, decreased after EHG treatment. These results suggest that EHG has a protective effect against DSS-induced colitis and is a potential candidate for colitis treatment.

Beyond plasma glucose-lowering in patients with type 2 diabetes, sodium- glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) significantly reduced the hospitalization for heart failure (HF) and retarded the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Endothelial dysfunction is not only involved in the development and progression of cardiovascular disease (CVD), and is also associated with the progression of CKD. In patients with type 2 diabetes, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia and dyslipidemia induce the development of endothelial dysfunction. SGLT2i have shown an improvement in endothelial dysfunction, as assessed by flow-mediated vasodila-tion, in individuals at high risk for CVD. Along with an improvement of endothelial dysfunction, SGLT2i showed improvements in oxidative stress, inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, glucotoxicity such as advanced glycation end products signaling and nitric oxide bioavailability. The improvements in endothelial dysfunc-tion and such endothelium-derived factors may play an important role in preventing the development of coronary artery disease, coronary microvascular dysfunction and diabetic cardiomyopathy which cause HF and in retarding CKD. The suppression of the development of HF and the progression of CKD achieved by SGLT2i might have been largely induced by the improvement of vascular endothelial function by SGLT2i.

This study was carried out to determine the effects of apple vinegar and sodium diacetate addition on the aerobic stability of fermented high moisture maize grain (HMM) silage after opening. In the study, the effect of three different levels (0, 0.5, 1.0%) of apple vinegar (AV) and sodium diacetate (SDA) supplementation to fermented HMM at two different storage conditions (27-29°C, 48% Humidity; 35-37°C, 26% Humidity) were investigated. The material of the study was fermented rolled maize grain with 62% moisture content stored for about 120 days. Silage samples were subjected to aerobic stability test with 3 replicates for each treatment group. Wendee and microbiological analyses were made at 0, 2, 4, 7, and 12 days. Meanwhile, samples were displayed in the T200 IR brand thermal camera. According to the thermogram results, 1% SDA addition positively affected HMM silages at the second and fourth days of aerobic stability at both storage conditions (p<0.05). Aerobic stability and infrared thermography analysis indicated that 1% AV, 0.5%, and 1% SDA additions to HMM silages had promising effects. Due to our results, we concluded that thermal camera images might be used as an alternative quality indicator for silages in laboratory conditions.

Around the world, every year, about 17 million people death cause happen due to CardioVascular Diseases (CVD). As per clinical records, primarily sufferers exhibit myocardial infarctions and Heart Failures (HF). Creatinine is a Musculo - skeletal waste product. The kidneys filter creatinine from the blood and excrete it through the urine in a healthy body. High creatinine levels can suggest renal problems. Elevated Serum Creatinine (SC) has been well established in the HF. Patients’ electronic medical records can be used to quantify symptoms and other related clinical laboratory test values, which would then be utilized to direct biostatistics exploration to uncover patterns and associations that doctors would otherwise miss. The latest American Heart Association guidelines for 1500 mg/d sodium tend to be sufficiently relevant for patients with stage A and B with HF. In this article, we used a dataset of the year 2015 of heart patients records of 299 patients. The present paper used the data analytic and statistical tools to verify the significant differences between alive and dead patients’ SC and Serum Sodium (SS). It also demonstrates the impact of significant features on abnormal SC and SS on the Survival-Status levels. The Age-Group feature, which is derived from age attribute and, Ejection Fraction (EF), anemia, platelets, Creatinine Phosphokinase (CPK), Blood-Pressure (BP), gender, diabetes, and smoking-status were utilized to determine the potential contributing features to mortality with Cox regression model. The Kaplan Meier plot was used to investigate the overall pattern of survival concerning age-group. During pre-processing of the dataset, Age and SS were removed due to multicollinear features during performing machine learning algorithms experiments. This paper also predicted patients’ survival, age group, and gender using supervised machine learning classifiers. Detection of significant features would help in making informed decisions to balance the lifestyle of heart patients. The author revealed that the patient’s follow-up months, as well as SC, EF, CPK, and platelets, are sufficient key features to predict heart patient survival using Random Forest (RF) stratified 10-fold CV method with accuracy (96%) with 5% Standard Deviation (SD) from medical records dataset. We identified the age-group and gender of the patient, and the RF model outperformed others with the best accuracy 96% and 94% in both cases having 11% SD. Also, prominent features such as CPK, SC, follow-up month, platelets, and ejection were found to be significant factors in predicting the patient’s age-group. Smoking habits, CPK, platelets, follow-up month, and SC of each patient were discovered to be significant predictors of patient gender. The hypothetical study proved that SC and SS making substantial differences in the survival of patients (p &lt; 0.05) and failed to reject that anemia, diabetes, and BP making a significant impact on the creatinine and sodium of each patient (p &gt; 0.05). With χ2(1) = 8.565, the Kaplan Meier plot revealed that mortality was high in the extremely elder age-group. The finding has possible effects on clinical practice and becomes a new medical support system when predicting whether a patient can survive a heart attack or not. The doctor should primarily concentrate on follow-up month, SC and EF, CPK, and platelet count since the aim is to understand whether a patient survives after HF.

To compare The effects of organic and inorganic impregnation on the properties of unmodified, phenol formaldehyde oligomer-modified (PFOMCF), and sodium silicate-modified Chinese fir wood (SSMCF) were compared using samples prepared using the respiratory impregnation method. Impregnation and reinforcement effects and water resistance of PFOMCF and SSMCF were compared and the results was showed that the weight percentage gain, density increase rate, bending strength, and compressive strength of SSMCF were clearly higher than those of PFOMCF and had a lower water absorption rate within 60 h. The impregnation and reinforcement effects and dimensional stability of SSMCF were better than those of PFOMCF. FT-IR, XRD, CONE, and TGA examinations were used to test and analyze the chemical structure, crystalline structure, flame retardancy, and heat resistance of these modified woods. The results indicated that SSMCF possessed more hydrogen bonds than PFOMCF and that Si–O–Si chemical bonding with high bond energy was formed. Meanwhile, the weakened degree of the diffraction peak of SSMCF was much less than that of PFOMCF. These results explained that the mechanical properties and water resistance of SSMCF were better than PFOMCF. Compared with PFOMCF, SSMCF had a lower heat release rate (HRR), peak-HRR, mean-HRR, total heat release, smoke production rate, and total smoke production as well as higher thermal decomposition temperature and residual rate. Inorganic sodium silicate was shown to be a better flame retardant, while SSMCF had good smoke suppression effects, thermal stability, and safety performance in the case of fire.

Considering the important demand of fresh water and its scarce availability, water desalination is an interesting technology, producing about 44 Mm³/year worldwide, but, in general the most common desalination techniques are highly energy demanding. Freezing-Melting (F/M) desalination uses just up to 70% less thermal energy, but is the least used process mainly, due to the difficulty of the salt separation. This study proposes a model able to analyses the thermodynamic potential that allows the salt diffusion during the F/M process, using an aqueous solution of sodium chloride. This should allow to obtain a sensitive analysis of the process to promote the separation between the high concentration brine and the ice with liquid separation by physical process. The unidimensional model is based on the evolution of both processes: thermal and mass diffusions, depending on temperature and saline gradients, predicting whether the salt will remain inside the ice or not. Thus, the thermal potential is adjusted to frozen only when the salt has been "pushed" towards the brine. Mostly models have base their results on the assumption of a “certain value of saline concentration of the liquid fraction”, value in which there is great disagreement. In this paper the calculations are based on the concentration in the solid-liquid interface, which has been extensively studied and there is a coincidence in those results, being the main advantage of the proposed model.

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is the most frequent form of kidney cancer. Metastatic stages of ccRCC reduce the five-year survival rate to 15%. In this report we analyze the ccRCC-induced remodeling of the five KEGG-constructed excretory functional pathways in a surgically removed right kidney and its metastasis in the chest wall from the perspective of the Genomic Fabric Paradigm (GFP). GFP characterizes every single gene in each region by the independent variables: average expression level (AVE), relative expression variability (REV) and expression correlation (COR) with each other gene. While traditional approach is limited to only AVE analysis, the novel REV analysis indicates genes whose correct expression level is critical for cell survival and proliferation. COR analysis determines the real gene networks responsible for functional pathways. The analyses covered the pathways: aldosterone-regulated sodium reabsorption, collecting duct acid secretion, endocrine and other factor-regulated sodium reabsorption, proximal tubule bicarbonate reclamation, and vasopressin-regulated water reabsorption. The present study confirms the conclusion of our previously published articles on prostate and kidney cancers that even equally graded cancer nodules from the same tumor have different transcriptomic topologies. Therefore, the personalization of the anti-cancer therapy should go beyond the individual to his/her major cancer nodules.

The bulk LiNa5Mo9O30 (LNM) crystals were successfully grown in the [010] and [001] directions without internal inclusions and cracks by the Czochralskii method with low temperature gradient. The crystal grown in the [010] direction showed a tendency to twinning. The crystal grown in the [001] direction demonstrated high structural perfection (FWHM=13'') for the (001) plane and high optical quality Δn≈210-5. The laser induced damage threshold was measured along a, b and c axes and was 15.7, 27.0 and 27.5 J/cm2 respectively. The thermo-optical coefficient dn/dT was measured for the main crystallographic axes, which was -5.7510-6, -2.0210-5 and 3.6510-6 K-1 along the a, b and c axes, respectively. The second harmonic generation (SHG) is conducted in crystalline LNM sample. The maximum efficiency value of 3.5% at pump power of 12 W had been achieved.

In this study, a commercial sodium butyrate protected by a new buffer salt solution (NSB) was tested to determine whether it can be used as an antibiotic alternative in broiler production. 192 1-day-old broilers were randomly allocated to three dietary treatments: soybean meal diet (CON), antibiotic diet (ANT, basal diet + 100 mg/kg aureomycin), and NSB (basal diet + 800 mg/kg NSB). The growth performance, serum anti-inflammatory cytokines, intestinal morphology, gut barrier function, antioxidative parameters, SCFAs content, and cecal microbiota were analyzed. The result showed that NSB significantly improved ADFI, ADG (p < 0.01), and decreased FCR (p < 0.01). Serum anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 was up-regulated (p < 0.01), and pro-inflammatory TNF-α was down-regulated (p < 0.05) by NSB supplementation. H&E results showed that VH and VH: CD ratio significantly increased (p < 0.05) in the jejunum and ileum in the NSB group. Furthermore, ZO-1 (p < 0.01), claudin-1 (p < 0.01), and occludin (p < 0.05) in the jejunum and claudin-1 (p < 0.01) and mucin-2 (p < 0.05) in the ileum significantly up-regulated in the NSB group, respectively. Additionally, SOD (p < 0.05) and T-AOC/MDA ratio (p < 0.01) in the jejunum and SOD in the ileum were significantly increased (p < 0.05) in the NSB group. The MDA level also significantly increased (p < 0.01) in the ANT group in the jejunum. Propionic acid (p < 0.05) and butyric acid (p < 0.01) content significantly increased in the NSB group in the jejunum and ileum segments. The 16S rRNA sequencing results showed no significant difference (p > 0.05) in alpha and beta diversity among the groups. LEFSe analysis also indicated that Peptostreptococcaceae, Colidextribacter, Firmicutes, Oscillospira, and Erysipelatoclostridiaceae, which promote SCFA production (p < 0.05), were identified as dominant taxon-enriched bacterial genera in the NSB group. The Spearman correlation analysis revealed that Colidextribacter with ADFI, ADG, VH, claudin-1 (p < 0.05), and unclassified_f__Peptostreptococcaceae with ADFI, IL-10, and ZO-1 were positively correlated (p < 0.05). Furthermore, ADFI and ADG with IL-10, claudin-1, SOD, T-AOC, and butyric acid (p < 0.05), and similarly, ADG with VH (p < 0.05) showed a positive correlation. In conclusion, NSB enhanced the growth performance by improving jejunum and ileum morphology, serum anti-inflammatory cytokines, regulating intestinal barrier function and antioxidant capacity, SCFAs content, and cecum microbiota, showing its potential use as an alternative to antibiotics in poultry nutrition.

In this study, sodium alginate (SA) was oxidized with potassium periodate to produce an alginate-based tanning agent. Using OSA as a biodegradable tanning agent and a nano-hydroxyapatite (nano-HAp) low concentration suspension to give flame retardancy to leather, eco-design concepts were applied to establish a chrome-, aldehyde-, and phenol-free tanning process. Micro-DSC, 1H NMR, attenuated total reflection mode Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR-ATR), and scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) were used to investigate the complex matrix collagen-OSA-nano-HAp. Micro-differential scanning calorimetry (micro-DSC) was used to assess OSA's ability to interact with collagen and stabilize the collagen-OSA matrix, while 1H unilateral nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) was used to investigate the aqueous environment and limitations around collagen molecules caused by their association with OSA and nano-HAp. Industrial standard tests were used to assess mechanical properties and fire resistance of the new leather prototype. The findings reported here indicate that both OSA and nano-HAp are suitable alternatives for cleaner tanning technologies and more sustainable leather.

Background. The type-2 sodium-glucose cotransporters inhibitors (SGLT2i) are a new relevant therapeutic option for patients affected by chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). The aim of this study was to evaluate, in a real-world population from a single center, the feasibility of introducing SGLT2i and their interaction with other recommended drug classes. Methods. We evaluated the consecutive patients affected by chronic heart failure (CHF) since January 2022. At baseline clinical visit the therapy taken by the patients as well as that prescribed were accurately collected. During a 6-12 month follow-up the the changes in concomitant therapy were analyzed. Results. At baseline, among 350 patients evaluated, only 17 (5%) were already taking SGLT2i, 13 with HFrEF, 2 with CHF with mild reduced (HFmrEF) and 2 with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). After baseline evaluation, SGLT2i were prescribed to 220 (63%) of all the patients enrolled, among whom 178 (84%) of HFrEF patients, 25 (42%) of HFmrEF and 17 (22%) of HFpEF. After follow-up, SGLT2i therapy was highly tolerated and it was associated with a significant increased prescription of sacubitril/valsartan and a reduced use of diuretics. Finally, a significant improvement in functional status and left ventricular systolic function after SGLT2i therapy was observed. Conclusions. In this single center “real world” study, SGLT2i were prescribed in HFrEF patients most of all already in therapy with the other classes of drugs currently recommended for their treatment. Moreover, a further optimization in prescribed ther-apy was observed during a short term follow-up. These data further support the use of this thera-peutic approach in routine clinical practice.

Hydrogels, soft materials with 3D polymer networks in aqueous solution, have been developed for engineering and bio-related fields. However, these conventional hydrogels are weak and brittle due to lack of energy dissipation mechanisms. Recently, dual-network hydrogels have been proposed, combining rigid and flexible networks and exhibiting high strength, stretchability, and toughness. This paper explores the rheological properties of dual-network hydrogels based on acrylamide and sodium alginate under large deformations. This dual network is a combination of a covalently crosslinked polyacrylamide network and a supramolecular crosslinked sodium alginate network at the presence of divalent calcium cations. Small and large amplitude oscillatory shear methods with Fourier transform rheology, stress decomposition method, and Chebyshev polynomial analysis of large amplitude oscillatory shear (LAOS) data were employed to evaluate non-linearity limit, toughness, and network rigidity. The concentration of calcium ions affects (concentrations 0-80 mg/ml) the nonlinear transition and limit points, and all gel samples exhibit strain hardening, shear thickening, and shear densification.

The leaves of Ligustrum robustum have been applied as Ku-Ding-Cha, a functional tea to clear heat and remove toxins; and served as a folk medicine to deal with diabetes, obesity, and hypertension. Trans-p-hydroxycinnamic acid and its esters, which were isolated from the leaves of L. robustum, might be a new resource to prevent diabetes and its complications because of their strong -glucosidase and fatty acid synthase (FAS) inhibitory activities and antioxidant effect. However, the quantitative analytical method for trans-p-hydroxycinnamic acid and its esters in the leaves of L. robustum hasn’t been reported so far. In addition, it was difficult and troublesome to analyze no less than 34 trans-p-hydroxycinnamic acid esters by usual HPLC. Therefore, a new HPLC-UV method using hydrolyzation with sodium hydroxide for quantitation of trans-p-hydroxycinnamic acid and its esters in the leaves of L. robustum was developed in the present study. The optimal hydrolyzation conditions were as follows: 1 mL sodium hydroxide aqueous solution (1 M) was added into 1 mL the extract of L. robustum and incubated at 80 °C for 2 h , and then 1 mL hydrochloride (1 M) solution was added. HPLC analysis was performed in reverse phase mode using a C-18 column, eluting with methanol-0.1% acetic acid aqueous solution (40:60, v/v) in isocratic mode at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min, and detecting at 310 nm. The analytical method was simple and rapid, which simplified greatly the analytical process. The method was validated in terms of linearity, limit of detection (LOD), limit of quantification (LOQ), precision, and accuracy. High linearity was demonstrated with correlation coefficient of 1.000 for trans-p-hydroxycinnamic acid. The LOD and LOQ values were 1.55 and 4.69 μg/mL, respectively. The relative standard deviations (RSD) of intra-day and inter-day variabilities for trans-p-hydroxycinnamic acid were less than 2%. The percentage recovery of trans-p-hydroxycinnamic acid was 101.2% ± 0.8%. Finally, the proposed method was applied successfully to the determination and comparison of the contents of trans-p-hydroxycinnamic acid and its esters in various extracts of the leaves of L. robustum. The 60%-70% ethanol extracts of L. robustum showed the highest contents of free trans-p-hydroxycinnamic acid (3.96-3.99 mg/g), and the 50%-80% ethanol extracts of L. robustum displayed the highest contents of trans-p-hydroxycinnamic acid esters (202.6-210.6 mg/g). The method can be applied also to the quality control of the products of L. robustum.

Amplitude growth rates of monochromatic gravity waves were estimated and compared from multiple instrument measurements carried out in Brazil. Wave dynamic parameters were obtained from sodium density profiles from lidar observations carried out in Sao Jose dos Campos (23°S, 46°W), while all-sky images of multiple airglow layers provided amplitudes and parameters of waves over Cachoeira Paulista (23°S, 45°W). Growth rates of gravity wave amplitudes from lidar and airglow imager data were consistent with dissipative wave behavior. Only a small amount of the observed wave events presented freely propagating behavior. Part of the observed waves presented saturated amplitude. The general saturated/damped behavior is consistent with diffusive filtering processes imposing limits to amplitude growth rates of the observed gravity waves.

Multidrug-resistant-tuberculosis (MDR-TB) patients are treated with a standardised, short, WHO-regimen, which includes clofazimine (CFZ) and bedaquiline (BDQ) antibiotics. These two antibiotics lead to development of QT prolongation in patients, inhibiting potassium (K+) uptake by targeting the Kv11.1 (hERG) channel of the cardiomyocytes (CMs). However, the involvement of these antibiotics on other K+ transporters of the CMs, as potential mechanisms of QT prolongation, has not been explored. This study determined the effects of CFZ and BDQ on the sodium, potassium-adenosine triphosphatase (Na+,K+-ATPase) activity of CMs, using the rat cardiomyocytes (RCMs). These cells were treated with varying concentrations of CFZ and BDQ individually and in combination (1.25 - 5 mg/L). Thereafter Na+,K+-ATPase activity was determined, followed by intracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) quantification and cellular viability determination. Both antibiotics demonstrated dose-response inhibition of the Na+,K+-ATPase activity of the RCMs. The greatest inhibition was demonstrated by combinations of CFZ and BDQ, followed by BDQ alone and lastly CFZ. Neither antibiotic, individually or in combination, demonstrated cytotoxicity under the experimental conditions used. The inhibitory effects of CFZ and BDQ individually and in combination, on the activity of the Na+,K+-ATPase pump of the RCMs highlight the existence of additional mechanisms of QT prolongation by these antibiotics.

After an introductory reminder of safety concerns pertaining to early rechargeable battery technologies, this review discusses current understandings and challenges of sodium-ion batteries. Sodium-ion technology is now being marketed by industrial promoters who are advocating its workable capacity, use of readily accessible and cheaper key cell components. Often claimed to be safer than lithium-ion cells, currently only limited scientific-sound safety assessment of sodium-ion cells has been performed. However, the predicted sodium-ion development roadmap reveals that significant variants of sodium-ion batteries will potentially enter the market in the near future. With recent experiences of lithium-ion battery failures, sodium-ion battery safety management will constitute a key aspect of successful market penetration. As such this review discusses the safety issues of sodium-ion batteries presenting a twofold innovative perspective: i) in terms of comparison with the parent lithium-ion technology making use of the same working principle and similar flammable non-aqueous solvent basis and ii) anticipating the arrival of innovative sub-chemistries at least partially inspired from successive generations of lithium-ion cells. The authors do hope that the analysis provided will assist the concerned stakeholders in the quest for safe marketing of sodium-ion batteries.

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disease that affects over 10.5 percent of the global adult population. Biochemical and hematological parameters such as albumin (ALB) and red cell dis-tribution width (RDW) have been shown to be altered in diabetic patients. This study aims to cor-relate hematological and biochemical parameters with glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). 777 adult individuals (372 women and 405 men, aged 19-85 years) were divided into three groups: 218 par-ticipants with HbA1c < 5.7% (group A: non diabetic), 226 with HbA1c ≥ 5.7% and < 6.5% (group B: prediabetic) and 333 with HbA1c ≥ 6.4% (group C: diabetic). Biochemical and hematological parameters were compared among the 3 groups. Analysis of variance was performed to deter-mine the correlations of the parameters among groups. ALB and sodium (Na) levels were signifi-cantly decreased in group C compared to groups A (ALB: 3.8 g/dL vs. 4.1 g/dL, p < 0.0001, Na: 138.4 mmol/L vs. 139.3 mmol/L, p < 0.001), and B (ALB: 3.8 g/dL vs. 4.0 g/dL, p < 0.0001, Na: 138.4 mmol/L vs. 139.6 mmol/L, p < 0.0001), while RDW-standard deviation (RDW-SD) and urea were increased in group C compared to group A ( RDW: 45.8 vs. 43.9 fL, p < 0.0001, Urea: 55.6 mg/dL vs. 38.5 mg/dL, p < 0.0001) . Mean platelet volume (MPV) was increased in group C com-pared to group A (9.3 fL vs. 9.1 fL, p < 0.05, respectively). Τhe increase of RDW-SD from group A towards B and C demonstrates the impact of hyperglycemia on red blood cells. RDW may be re-garded as a potential innovative biomarker for improving risk assessment of developing diabetes. These results highlight the potential role of these parameters as an indication for prediabetes that would alert for measurement of HbA1c.

Quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.) landscapes are valued for their biodiversity, water retention, fire mitigation, aesthetics, and recreation opportunities. Across North America, some aspen populations are experiencing population declines as they face uninhibited ungulate browsing, drought, fire suppression, insects, disease, and inappropriate management. Increased human development and recreational use within aspen landscapes can serve as additive stressors, though there is a dearth of literature examining these elements. At a popular recreational area in Utah, USA, identifying the cause of apparent decline within a larger aspen community is complicated by development upstream and recreation-related activities. We sought to: 1) assess the overall condition of the aspen at the site, 2) understand key variables that influence aspen conditions, and 3) elucidate how aspen fitness varies across the site. We collected data from forty-five plots using established aspen sampling methods, including ungulate presence, tree characteristics, soil chemistry, and environmental descriptors. Results suggest that a combination of higher levels of browsing and elevated soil sodium may be causing premature mortality and limiting aspen recruitment in a portion of the study area. These findings will inform future management at this site, as well as similar recreational forest settings experiencing compound stressors.

This research aims to deepen the understanding of the relationship between conductivity and morphology in polypyrrole (PPy) via a comparison of the bipolaron to polaron ratios with a focus on the C-H deformation area. PPy samples were synthesized with different surfactants: sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), and tween 80 (TW). The study revealed that SDS significantly altered the bipolaron and polaron in C-H deformation region and showed higher conductivity than other surfactants. Notably, the morphological shifts to a sheet-like structure when using ammonium sulfate (APS) contrasted with the particle-like form observed with ferric chloride (FeCl3). These results showed that if the oxidant changed, the bi-polaron and polaron ratios in C-H deformation were unrelated to PPy morphology. However, this work showed a consistent relationship between SDS use, the bipolaron and polaron ratios in the C-H deformation, and the conductivity properties. Moreover, the natural positive charge of PPy and negatively charged SDS molecules may lead to an electrostatic interaction between PPy and SDS. This work assumes that this interaction might cause the transformation of polaron to bipolaron in the C-H deformation region, resulting in improved conductivity of PPy. This work offers more support for the future investigation of PPy characteristics.

Background: Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the SLC10A1 gene, coding for a functional receptor of hepatitis B virus (HBV), sodium taurocholate co-transporting polypeptide (NTCP), may influence the susceptibility, the outcome, and disease course of HBV infection in some populations. Aim: to determine the prevalence of SNPs of NTCP gene, rs2296651 and rs943277, and their relationship with chronic HBV infection in a group of Egyptian patients. Methods: 137 patients with HBV and 65 healthy controls were enrolled, and the patients were divided into two groups; group I chronic HBV infection (68 patients with normal ALT and minimal or no liver necroinflammation or fibrosis) and group II chronic hepatitis B (69 patients with elevated ALT and moderate or severe liver necroinflammation). They were subjected to full history taking, clinical examination, laboratory investigations, abdominal ultrasound, and liver stiffness measurement using both Echosens® Fibroscan and acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI). Real time PCR TaqMan 5’ allelic discrimination assay was applied to detect the SNPs in NTCP gene, rs2296651 and rs943277. Results: On studying the rs2296651 variant, all controls and patients had genotype GG without any significant association with HBV infection or disease progression. However, the rs943277 variant in all controls and 98% of patients had genotype GA, except for two chronic HBV infection patients who had genotype AA, but no significant difference between patients and controls was found. The non-invasive methods for liver fibrosis assessment ARFI, AST/platelet's ratio (APRI), and fibrosis-4 score (FIB-4) could predict the stages of fibrosis in agreement with Fibroscan with AUCOR 0.8, 0.79, and 0.76, respectively. Conclusion: These findings may suggest that there is no relation between these SNPs of the NTCP gene and susceptibility or chronicity of HBV infection in the Egyptian population. We also suggest that the use of the non-invasive methods for liver fibrosis assessment, ARFI, FIB-4, and APRI may decrease the need for liver biopsies in prediction of significant hepatic fibrosis in chronic HBV patients.

Soil water loss by evaporation influences the sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) of irrigation drainage water. Evaporation concentrates sodium and magnesium but calcite precipitation has a more complicated effect on soluble calcium and alkalinity. Here we propose a revised sodicity hazard assessment that quantifies the impact of evaporative water loss and calcite precipitation on drainage water SAR. This paper shows sodicity hazard is determined by the initial composition of irrigation water as originally suggested by previous researchers, and provide a simple, accurate way to identify the potential sodicity hazard of any irrigation water. In particular, the initial equivalent concentration of alkalinity and calcium determine the salinization pathway followed during evaporation. If the irrigation water alkalinity exceeds soluble calcium expressed as equivalent concentrations, drainage water SAR approaches an upper limit determined by the initial relative concentration of sodium and magnesium. If irrigation water alkalinity is less than soluble calcium, drainage water SAR approaches a lower limit determined by the initial calcium, magnesium and sodium. In both cases the SAR is scaled by the square root of the concentration factor √Fc quantifying soil water loss. To assess the impact of evaporation and calcite precipitation on the SAR and test the accuracy of the new sodicity hazard assessment, we evaluated data from previously published lysimeter studies. We plotted water composition boundaries for each source water, comparing these boundaries to the drainage water composition recorded in the lysimeter studies. As salinity increased by evaporation, each drainage water followed a distinct salinization path.

Increasing salt intake has substantial negative impacts on health and well-being. This review article focusses on the effect of salinity intrusion (SI) on the water quality and community health of coastal Bangladesh and to find out the effectiveness of interventions for reducing the negative effects of salinity. Saline water is a noteworthy reason for hypertension or high blood pressure in the coastal areas. Health status of women especially the pregnant women are vulnerable because of drinking water sodium (DWS) prompting to pre-eclampsia, high blood pressure and hypertension as well as infant mortality. Several interventions such as rainwater harvesting and Pond sand filter (PSF) system as well as managed aquifer recharge (MAR) usage and the integration of mixed sources were reviewed on the content of drinking water sodium (DWS). Although rainwater has the positive impact of low or no sodium intake on human health, it still possesses negative impacts from not having vital minerals. Despite what might be expected, in MAR a steady increment in sodium concentration through the span of the dry season was observed. It is, subsequently, important to increase awareness about drinking water sodium (DWS) intake by providing and adopting correct technological interventions.

Myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) is a leading cause of cardiac morbidity and mortality in dogs, requiring targeted intervention at various stages of disease progression. MMVD is characterized by thickening of the mitral valve leaflets, leading to mitral regurgitation and cardiac remodeling. This progressive disease impairs valve function, causing volume overload in the left atrium and ventricle, which can eventually lead to congestive heart failure. MMVD involves complex mechanisms, including genetic predisposition, neurohormonal activation, and mechanical stress on the valve. Thickened valve leaflets fail to seal properly during systole, resulting in mitral regurgitation and increased left atrial pressure. This triggers compensatory mechanisms like activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), contributing to further cardiac remodeling. Chronic RAAS activation results in fluid retention, vasoconstriction, and fibrosis, all of which can worsen heart failure. This mini-review provides an overview of current therapeutic strategies for the management of MMVD and discusses preliminary findings from our consortium regarding the preclinical and clinical efficacy of the sodium-glucose co-transporter type-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitor, dapagliflozin, in dogs.

This study aims to examine the safety profile of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) using real-world data, with a focus on neurological, skin, and sexual/reproductive disorders. Data were collected from AED-caused reports in the Korea Adverse Event Reporting System Database (KAERS-DB) from 2012 to 2022. Totally, 46,963 adverse drug reaction (ADR)-drug pairs were analyzed. At the system organ class level, the most frequently reported classes for sodium channel blockers (SCBs) were skin (37.9%), neurological (16.7%), and psychiatric disorders (9.7%). However, for non-SCBs, these were neurological (31.2%), gastrointestinal (22.0%), and psychiatric disorders (18.2%). The most common ADRs induced by SCBs were rash (17.8%), pruritus (8.2%), and dizziness (6.7%). In contrast, non-SCBs induced dizziness (23.7%), somnolence (13.0%), and nausea (6.3%). Among the most commonly reported ADRs, rash, pruritus, and urticaria occurred on average two days later with SCBs compared to non-SCBs. Sexual/reproductive disorders were reported at a frequency of 0.23%. SCBs were reported as the cause more frequently than non-SCBs (59.8% vs. 40.2%, Fisher’s exact test, p&lt;0.0001). Based on real-world data, we identified the safety profiles of AEDs. AED-induced ADRs exhibited different patterns depending on the mechanism. Therefore, it is important to establish different pharmacovigilance strategies to ensure proper monitoring.

World Health Organization recommends adjusting the salt intake as a part of the nine global targets to reduce premature mortality from non-communicable chronic diseases as priority and most cost-effective intervention. In 2006. the main aim of the Croatian Action on Salt and Health was to decrease salt intake for 16% because of its critical intake and consequences on human health. We have organized educative activities for increasing awareness on salt harmfulness, defined food categories of prime interest, collaborate with industries and determine salt intake (24h urine-sodium excretion). It was determined that the proportion of salt in ready-to-eat baked bread should not exceed 1.4%. In the period 2014 –2022, salt in the semi-white bread was reduced 14%, in bakery 22% and in largest meat industry in Croatia 25%. Awareness of the harmfulness of salt on health increased from 65.3% in 2008 to 96.9% in 2023 and salt intake was reduced 15.9%-1.8 grams/day (22.8% men, 11.7% women). In last 18 years a significant decrease in salt intake was achieved in Croatia, awareness of its harmfulness increased, collaboration with food industry established and regulatory documents launched. However, salt intake is still very high underlying the need for continuation of efforts and even stronger activities.

A The aim of this study is to analyze the effect of different endodontic irrigants and adhesive systems on resin bond strength of fiber post cementation. 144 single-rooted, unrestored human teeth were endodontically treated and randomly divided into 12 groups according to 4 endodontic irrigants (distilled water as control; EDTA 17%; NaOCl 5%; clorhexidine 2%) and 3 different adhesive/resin cement systems (etch-and-rinse: ortofosforic acid, Parabond® A+B/Paracore®; self-etch: ParaBond® Non-Rinse Conditioner, Parabond® A+B /Paracore®; Universal: ClearfilTM Universal Bond/ ClearfilTM DC Core Plus). 48 h after post cementation ten teeth from each group were cross sectioned into 3 discs (cervical, middle and apical regions). 30 specimens of each group (n=30) were submitted to push-out test at a crosshead speed of 1 mm/min. The remaining 2 teeth of each group were sectioned in the same manner and the resin-dentin interface was evaluated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results were statistically analyzed with the ANOVA and Tukey’s test (< 0,01). The adhesive protocols and post space region showed no significant effect on bond strength (> 0.01). The combination of NaOCl 5% and ClearfilTM Universal Bond reduced the adhesive strength (< 0.01). The NaOCl 5%, in relation with other irrigants, significantly decreased the push-out bond strength.

Deficient wound healing is frequently observed in patients diagnosed with diabetes, a clinical complication that compromises mobility and leads to limb amputation, decreasing patient autonomy and family lifestyle. Fibroblasts are crucial for secreting the extracellular matrix to pave the wound site for endothelial and keratinocyte regeneration. The biosynthetic pathways for collagen production are one of the main components of the extracellular matrix, as the crosslinking of extracellular collagen fibers is intimately related to fibroblast redox homeostasis. In this study, human dermic fibroblasts were cultured with 1 mM sodium selenite (inorganic) and 1 mM of two selenium amino acids (organic), Se-cysteine and Se-methionine. This concentration was compatible with long-term exposure necessary for extracellular matrix production and allowed us to examine the impact of these three compounds on the state and response of the thiol-based HyPer biosensor expressed in the cytoplasm. In addition, the abundance of extracellular matrix and ultrastructural properties were evaluated by Picrus Sirius red staining and scanning electronic microscopy, respectively. We also evaluated whether these selenium compounds effectively ameliorated the perturbations induced by culturing fibroblasts at high glucose levels (25 mM) regarding cytoplasmic redox, extracellular matrix, and glycation on collagen fibers. Our results indicate that cytoplasm protein oxidation was sensitive to selenium compound supplementation. Selenium amino acids increased the sensitivity to protein oxidation, and only Se-cysteine increased the disulfide bond reduction in fibroblasts maintained in high glucose. Despite the lack of effect of selenium compounds on the glu-cose-induced increase in matrix fiber thickness, we found that endothelial migration improved in the matrix generated by high glucose-cultured fibroblasts.

In this work, the influence of catalyst reuse and reaction time on the yield and quality of organic liquid products (OLP) obtained in a cracking pilot plant at 450 °C and 1.0 atm has been systematically investigated. The distillation of OLP produced 04 (four) distilled fractions. The quality of the biofuels was certified by physical-chemical analysis, as well as FT-IR and GC-MS analysis. The experimental results showed the feasibility of applying the spent sodium carbonate twice in catalytic cracking of vegetable oils. The physical-chemical properties (density, viscosity, acid value, saponification value, and flash point) of OLP decrease as the reaction time increases. The distillation of OLP yields 62.35% (wt.), producing green-like gasoline, kerosene, and diesel fractions rich in hydrocarbons. Therefore, biofuels-like fractions produced by distillation of OLP have a great potential for replacing partially petroleum derived fuels.

Seyfe Lake is an important part of the natural ecosystem of Central Anatolia and lies within a 1487 km² closed basin. Groundwater withdrawal for irrigation and recent climatic change have caused lake area to decrease for decades and to completely disappear briefly in August 2008. Groundwater quality is crucial for sustainable irrigation in the Seyfe Basin. A key finding of this study is the difference in the Hardie-Eugster alkalinity-to-calcium ratio of the lake water and that of most groundwater wells in the basin. This difference in the chemical signature of Seyfe Lake and basin groundwater means the evaporative salinization pathway of most groundwater discharged into the lake cannot account for the composition of Seyfe Lake. The ratio of actual evapotranspiration to precipitation will increase under current climate change projections. A second finding, with implications for soil salinization, is that most groundwater in Seyfe Basin has a Hardie-Eugster alkalinity-tocalcium ratio greater than unity, meaning soil alkalization will accompany soil salinization.

Exercise affects various organs. However, its effects on nutrient digestion and absorption in the intestinal tract are not well understood. A few studies have reported that exercise training in-creases the expression of carbohydrate digestion and absorption molecules. Exercise was also shown to increase the concentration of blood glucagon like peptide-2(GLP-2), which regulates carbohydrate digestion and absorption in small intestinal epithelium. Therefore, we investigated the effects of exercise on intestinal digestion and absorption molecules and the levels of GLP-2. 6-wk-old of male mice were divided into 2 groups; sedentary (SED) and low-intensity exercise (LEx). LEx mice were required to run on a treadmill (12.5 m/min, 60 min), whereas SED mice rested. All mice were euthanized 1 h after exercise or rest and plasma, jejunum, ileum, and colon were sampled. Samples were analyzed using EIA and immunoblotting. The levels of plasma GLP-2 and the expression of the GLP-2 receptor, sucrase-isomaltase (SI), and glucose transporter (GLUT2) in the jejunum were increased in LEx group. We showed that acute low-intensity exer-cise affects the intestinal carbohydrate digestion and absorption molecules via GLP-2. Our results suggest that exercise might provide new benefits to the small intestine for people with intestinal frailty.

Myocardium transcriptomes of mouse left and right atria and ventricles were profiled separately to identify the differences that might be responsible for the distinct functional roles of the four heart chambers. In total, 16,886 distinct unigenes have been quantified in all 16 samples collected from four adult male mice from the same litter. 15.76% of the quantified genes on the left and 16.5% on the right exhibited differential expression between the corresponding atrium and ventricle of the same side, while 5.8% in atria and 1.2% in ventricles were differently expressed between the left and the right. Beyond the differentially expressed genes, the study revealed distinct expression control and coordination of ion channels and genes within the cardiac muscle contraction, oxidative phosphorylation, glycolysis/glucogenesis, calcium and adrenergic signaling pathways. Interestingly, while expression of Ank2 (encoding ankyrin-B) oscillates in phase with all its binding partners in the left ventricle, the percentage of synergistically expressed partners of Ank2 is 15% and 37% in the left and right atria and 74% in the right ventricle. The analysis revealed also the high interventricular synchrony of the expression of ion channels.

Flexible humidity sensors (FHS) with fast response and durability to high-humidity environment are highly desirable for practical applications. Herein, an FHS based on crosslinked sodium alginate (SA) and MXene was fabricated, which exhibited high sensitivity (impedance varied from 107 to 105 Ω between 10% and 90% RH), good selectivity, prompt response (response/recover time of 4 s/11 s), high sensing linearity (R2 = 0.992) on a semi-logarithmic scale, relatively small hysteresis (~5% RH), good repeatability, and good resistance to high humid environment (negligible change in sensing properties after placed in 98% RH over 24 h). It is proposed that the formation of crosslinking structure of SA and introduction of MXene with good conductivity and high specific surface area contributed to the high performance of the composite FHS. Moreover, the FHS could promptly differentiate respiration status, recognize speech and measure fingertip movement, indicating potentials in breath monitoring and non-contact human-machine interactions. This work provides guidance for developing advanced flexible sensors with wide application scope in wearable electronics.

Sanctuaries devoted to Asclepius were established and operated for almost a thousand years in various Greek and Roman cities throughout the Mediterranean region. The Asclepieion sanctuary in Lenta (formerly known as Ancient Lebena) in Crete was famous for receiving water from a sacred spring. In the Ancient Lebena, Levinaion was a famous centre for hydrotherapy, physiotherapy and a psychiatric hospital. In the present paper, we aim to assess the hydrochemical status of this sacred spring that holds a prominent position in archaeological and historical studies. The main objectives of this study are: Initially, to present supervisory evidence (archaeological, geological, hydrochemical) of an area that was a water resource management model for many centuries, carrying out therapeutic work. The second objective is to present and compare hydrochemical data in the last century, i.e. from 1915 to 2021. The third objective is to highlight and warn of an incipient saltwater intrusion in the area along the Lentas coast. The fourth objective is to propose an alternative and sustainable form of water resources management in the region that requires the study and rational utilization of the sporadic small water springs in the region. Our study focuses on a basic hydrochemical analysis of spring and borehole water in the remains of Levinaion in the Lentas region and their comparison with spare historical data of the sacred spring water, aiming to interpret the impact of the changes in the spring water resources that occurred in the last decades due to urban modernization. Our results highlight (i) visible fluctuations in chemical composition of borehole water samples, (ii) a neutral to alkaline pH in borehole waters, and an alkaline pH in spring waters, (iii) un-detectable arsenic of Lentas borehole water, unlike historical data of Lentas spring water, (iv) low values of dissolved radon of Lentas borehole water and spring water of Kefalovrysa, and (v) a timeless constant and hypothermic nature of the water of both sacred spring and borehole of Lenta, but also of Kefalovrysa spring. The recorded historical data, i.e. from 1915 to 1957, due to the absence of substantial anthropogenic activity in the area, can be used as reference values (natural background levels, NBLs) for the Lentas area. Our findings emerge with the need to bring again the flowing spring water of the sacred spring of Lentas in its original form through sustainable management and re-discover its beneficial therapeutical effects.

This study examines the impact of the impregnation of fireclay-based conventional (CC) and medium cement castables (MCC) with liquid sodium silicate glass under vacuum conditions. The goal is to assess how this treatment affects physical, mechanical properties, and durability (alkali and thermal shock resistance) of these castables used in biomass combustion boilers, where they are exposed to temperatures up to 1100°C. The research work employs standard test methods to evaluate physical and mechanical properties. Additionally, advanced techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and specific tests for alkali resistance and thermal shock resistance are used. The research findings suggest that impregnation with sodium silicate glass under vacuum significantly enhances the alkali resistance of both CC and MCC castables. This improvement is primarily due to the reduction in porosity and the increase in density. SEM images reveal that impregnated samples are coated with a glassy layer and the pores are partially filled with sodium silicate. Tests for alkali resistance demonstrate the formation of a protective glassy layer (with a thickness of 0.9-1.5 mm) on the castables surfaces, thereby reducing further penetration of alkali into deeper layers of the samples. However, it is important to mention that impregnated refractory castables have reduced resistance to thermal shock cycles.

The aim of the present study was to investigate whether chronic undernutrition modifies the response to rostafuroxin in juvenile rats. Chronic undernutrition was induced in male rats using a multideficient diet known as Regional Basic Diet (RBD), mimicking alimentary habits in impoverished regions worldwide. Animals were given RBD – or a control/CTRL normal diet for rodents – from weaning to 90 days, and rostafuroxin (1 mg/kg body mass) or vehicle were orally administered during the last 30 days. Undernourished rats became hypertensive at 55–60 days of age (tail-cuff recording). During the last two days, the rats were hosted in metabolic cages to measure food/energy, water, Na⁺ ingestion, and urinary volume. Blood and kidneys were collected after euthanasia. Rostafuroxin increased food/energy and Na⁺ intake in CTRL and RBD rats but had opposite effects on Na⁺ balance (intake minus urinary excretion): negative in CTRL and positive in RBD. The drug normalized the decreased plasma Na⁺ concentration found in RBD rats, increased urinary volume in RBD but not in CTRL, and decreased and increased urinary Na⁺ concentration in the RBD and CTRL groups, respectively. Rostafuroxin decreased the ouabain-sensitive (Na⁺+K⁺)ATPase and increased the ouabain-resistant, furosemide-sensitive Na⁺-ATPase from proximal tubule cells in both groups, and normalized the systolic blood pressure in RBD without effect in CTRL rats. We conclude that chronic undernutrition modifies the response of blood pressure, caloric metabolism, Na⁺ distribution in liquid compartments, mobilization of Na⁺ from non-osmotic compartments, Na⁺ and water balance, and activity of renal Na⁺-transporting ATPases to rostafuroxin.

The aim of the present study was to investigate whether chronic undernutrition modifies the response to rostafuroxin in juvenile rats. Chronic undernutrition was induced in male rats using a multideficient diet known as Regional Basic Diet (RBD), mimicking alimentary habits in impoverished regions worldwide. Animals were given RBD – or a control/CTRL normal diet for rodents – from weaning to 90 days, and rostafuroxin (1 mg/kg body mass) or vehicle were orally administered during the last 30 days. Undernourished rats became hypertensive at 55–60 days of age (tail-cuff recording). During the last two days, the rats were hosted in metabolic cages to measure food/energy, water, Na+ ingestion, and urinary volume. Blood and kidneys were collected after euthanasia. Rostafuroxin increased food/energy and Na+ intake in CTRL and RBD rats but had opposite effects on Na+ balance (intake minus urinary excretion): negative in CTRL and positive in RBD. The drug normalized the decreased plasma Na+ concentration found in RBD rats, increased urinary volume in RBD but not in CTRL, and decreased and increased urinary Na+ concentration in the RBD and CTRL groups, respectively. Rostafuroxin decreased the ouabain-sensitive (Na++K+)ATPase and increased the ouabain-resistant, furosemide-sensitive Na+-ATPase from proximal tubule cells in both groups, and normalized the systolic blood pressure in RBD without effect in CTRL rats. We conclude that chronic undernutrition modifies the response of blood pressure, caloric metabolism, Na+ distribution in liquid compartments, mobilization of Na+ from non-osmotic compartments, Na+ and water balance, and activity of renal Na+-transporting ATPases to rostafuroxin.

Lettuce is a salt-sensitive crop and has a threshold electrical conductivity of 1.3–2.0 mS cm-1 and above that is considered detrimental. As there has been very little information on the physio-logical response of different critical stages of lettuce under different salt stress (SS), the current study is focused on investigating the effects of SS on the critical physiological traits influencing the carbon assimilation in different growth stages of lettuce. The experiment was conducted in deep-water culture hydroponic system in a greenhouse condition. Four levels of sodium chloride salt treatments (EC: 20, 16, 8, and 1.8 mS cm-1) were applied. During both growth stages (day 11 (GS1) and day 19 (GS2) after salt treatment), the leaf transpiration rate, stomatal conductance, and intercellular CO2 were severely decreased. However, the carbon assimilation rate remained unchanged under SS. Similarly, the water use efficiency increased under the SS. It is concluded that the increasing SS increased stomatal and non-stomatal limiting factors during GS1 suggesting the enhanced limitation in photosynthetic activity while no such trend was observed during GS2. The decreased gm with increased SS at GS1 and GS2 suggested that SS induced the irreversible decrease of gm, which in turn can be responsible for the transient reduction in the Vcmax and Jmax during GS2. Taken together, the evidence from this research recommends that varying the SS levels can significantly affect the physiological performance of lettuce at both growth stages.

Overweight/obesity is a growing pandemic nowadays that affects many organs and tissues. We have investigated whether a high-lipid diet provokes an imbalance between type 1 and type 2 angiotensin II (Ang II) receptors signaling, leading to liver alterations associated with previously described cardiovascular and kidney disturbances. Chronic administration of a high-lipid diet can provoke an hepatocardiorenal syndrome as the result of activation of the Ang II→type 1 receptor axis, which is completely counteracted by Ang-(3–4) the allosteric enhancer of the Ang II→type 2 receptor pathway.

The objective of this study was to assess the ability of producing laminated edible films manufactured using the following proteins; gelatin (G), whey protein isolate (WPI), and polysaccharide; sodium alginate (SA), and to evaluate their physical properties. Additionally, films’ preparation employing these ingredients was optimized through the addition of corn oil (O), Overall, 8-types of laminated films (G-SA, G-WPI, SA-WPI, SA-G-WPI, GO-SAO, GO-WPIO, SAO-WPIO, SAO-GO-WPIO were developed in this study. The properties of the prepared films were characterized through the measurement of; tensile strength (TS), elongation at break point (EB), puncture resistance (PR), tear strength (TT), water vapour permeability (WVP) and oxygen permeability (OP). The microstructure of cross-sections of laminated films was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Mechanical properties of films were dramatically enhanced through the addition of film layers. GO-SAO laminate showed the best barrier properties to water vapour (22.6 ± 4.04 g mm/kPa d m2) and oxygen (18.2 ± 8.70 cm3 mm/kPa d m2). SAO-GO-WPIO laminate film was the strongest of all laminated films tested, having the highest TS of 55.77 MPa, PR of 41.36 N and TT of 27.32 N. SA-G-WPI film possessed the highest elasticity with an EB value of 17.4%.

The axon initial segment (AIS) region is crucial for action potential (AP) initiation due to its molecular organization especially voltage gated ion channels and Ankyrin-G (AnkG). AnkG act as recruiter and restrict almost all the proteins at AIS in order to maintain the AIS assembly. Voltage gated sodium channels (Nav channels) are enriched at AIS with high density and independently responsible for the AP initiation. Moreover, AIS also contains voltage gated potassium channels (Kv channels) for repolarization phase of AP, microtubules (MTs) responsible for the proper protein trafficking through molecular motors. AIS also acts as a cytoplasmic filter and diffusion barrier, responsible for the selective entry of the proteins into axon. Mutation of AIS related protein can cause various neurological dysfunction including Alzheimer’s disease. This review also reflects the role and importance of computational modelling in the understanding of action potential mechanisms mathematically.

The aim of the study was to analyze the functional properties of newly obtained films based on sodium alginate and lecithin with the addition of antioxidant-rich coffee extracts, and to verify their potential as safe edible food packaging materials. In our study we developed alginate-lecithin films enriched with green or roasted coffee bean extracts. The roasting process of coffee beans had a significant impact on the total phenolic content (TPC) in the studied extracts. The highest value of TPC (134.86 mg GAE/L) as well as antioxidant activity (AA) (0.88 mM T/L) was observed for the extract of light roasted coffee beans. Films with addition of medium roasted coffee extracts and baseline films had the highest tensile strength (21.21±0.73 N). The addition of coffee extract improved the barrier properties of films against UV light by a decrease in transmittance values (200-400 nm), regardless of the type of extract added. Studies on Caco-2, HepG2 and BJ cells shown that digestated films were non-cytotoxic materials (100-0,1 ug/mL) and had no negative effect on cell viability, an increase was noted for all cell lines, the highest after 48-hours in dose 1 ug/mL for film with medium-roasted coffee (194.43±38.30) for Caco-2. The tested films at 20% digestate concentrations demonstrated the ability to reduce nitric oxide (NO) production in the RAW264.7 cell line by 25 to 60% compared to the control. Each of the tested films with coffee extracts had growth inhibitory properties towards selected species of bacteria.

Background/Objectives: The global burden of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is increasing at an alarming rate. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of mortality in MASLD patients, therefore, the therapeutic interventions for MASLD should improve coronary risk factors such as obesity, diabetes and dyslipidemia, in addition to improving liver function. The evidence on effect of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) which have beneficial pharmacological properties for MASLD, especially the long-term effects, on the progression of MASLD in Asian population is very limited. Methods: The retrospective longitudinal study was performed by using the medical records at the National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Kohnodai Hospital, Japan. We picked up patients with type 2 diabetes who had taken SGLT2is for at least 3 years or longer between April 1, 2014 and March 31, 2018. We collected the data on metabolic parameters, including blood tests and anthropometric parameters, and compared the data before and after the initiation of SGLT2is treatment. Results: During the observation period, 324 patients had taken SGLT2is for 3 years. The 3-year-SGLT2is treatment significantly reduced body weight, hemoglobin A1c, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, triglyceride and non-high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) and significantly increased HDL-C. Furthermore, this treatment significantly improved liver function and the markers for hepatic steatosis and hepatic fibrosis. Conclusions: Considering that the development of CVD determines the prognosis of MASLD patients, the long-term SGLT2is treatment may be an ideal therapy for MASLD patients.

The 70/30 copper–nickel alloy is mainly used in critical parts with more demanding conditions in marine settings. There is a need for innovative methods that offer fast production and cost-effectiveness to supplement current copper–nickel alloy manufacturing processes. In this study, we employ wire-arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) to fabricate the 70/30 copper–nickel alloy. The as-built microstructure is characterized by columnar grains with prominent dendrites and chemical segregation in the inter-dendritic area. The aspect ratio of the columnar grain increases with increasing travel speed (TS) at the same wire feed speed (WFS). This is in contrast to an equiaxed grain structure with a more random orientation of conventional sample. The sample built with a WFS of 8 m/min, TS of 1000 mm/min, and a track distance of 3.85 mm exhibits superior corrosion properties in the 3.5 wt% NaCl solution compared to the conventional one, as evidenced by a higher film resistance and breakdown potential, along with a lower passive current density of the WAAM sample. The corrosion morphology reveals the critical roles played by the nickel element unevenly distributed between the dendrite core and inter-dendritic area.

Bodybuilders utilize peaking strategies in a bid to fine-tune their aesthetics for competition day. The most prevalent peaking strategies utilized by natural bodybuilders are unreported in the current literature. Eighty-one (M - 59, F - 22) natural bodybuilders were recruited from competitions during the 2016 and 2017 British Natural Bodybuilder Federation seasons. Competitors completed a 34-item questionnaire designed to investigate peaking and contest day strategies. The questionnaire listed commonly utilized peaking strategies and provided additional space for qualitative information. Analysis of the data indicated that carbohydrate (CHO), water and sodium manipulation were the most commonly utilized peak week strategies. The consumption of high glycemic index CHO was the most common competition day strategy. Only 6.2 % of competitors reported following their regular diet the week prior to competition. The CHO manipulation strategies were similar to classical CHO loading, whereby bodybuilders attempt to maximize muscle glycogen concentrations. Furthermore, bodybuilders attempted to remove superfluous water by exploiting the diuretic/polyuria effect associated with water loading/restriction. The potentially deleterious effects of peaking on bodybuilders' health is considered and the efficacy of these strategies to enhance appearance is discussed. The findings of the present investigation are likely to be of interest to bodybuilders and their coaches.

Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) micro and nano architectures have been intensively studied in the past years because of many varied applications in environmental, energy conversion, and storage fields, such as heterogeneous catalysis, dye-sensitized solar cells, lithium/sodium ion batteries, lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries, and bio-nanotechnology, etc. Especially the surface and interface structures in the TiO₂ structures play important roles in those applications. This mini review article focuses on TiO₂ micro and nano architectures with the prevalent crystal structures (anatase, rutile, brookite, and TiO₂(B)), and summarizes major advances in the surface and interface engineering and applications in environmental and electrochemical applications. We present the principles and growth mechanisms of TiO₂ nanostructures via different strategies, with an emphasis on rational control of the surface and interface structures. We further discuss the applications of TiO₂ micro and nano architectures in photocatalysis, lithium/sodium ion batteries, and Li-S batteries. Throughout the discussion, the relationship between the device performance and the surface structures of TiO₂ micro/nano structures will be highlighted. Then we discuss the phase transitions of TiO₂ nanostructures and possible strategies of improving the phase stability. The review concludes with a perspective on the current challenges and future research directions.

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the amounts of apically extruded 3% sodium hypochlorite using two modes of Er:YAG laser-activated irrigation (LAI), super short pulse (SSP) and shock wave enhanced emission photoacoustic streaming (SWEEPS®), combining three types of laser tips (FT) and conventional syringe needle irrigation (SNI). Methods: Twenty extracted human maxillary central incisors prepared using Reciproc® instruments (size 40, taper 0.06). Irrigant volumetric flow (IVF) was accurately standardized using a precision syringe pump with constant irrigant delivery through the 27G needle. The tested irrigation protocols (60 s) were groups 1: 27-G SNI with 0.05 ml/s constant IVF; group 2: SSP (10 mJ, 15 Hz, pulse duration 50 μs) + Radial SWEEPS FT; group 3: SSP + photon-induced photoacoustic streaming (PIPS) FT; group 4: SSP+SWEEPS FT; group 5: AutoSWEEPS (20 mJ, 15 Hz, pulse duration 25 µs) + Radial SWEEPS FT; group 6: AutoSWEEPS+PIPS FT; group 7: AutoSWEEPS+SWEEPS FT. Each protocol was evaluated in 10 repetitions each. Apically extruded irrigant was collected, and the net weighted. Results: There were significantly lower amounts of extruded irrigant with SNI and SSP using radial SWEEPS and PIPS FTs compared to the other tested laser protocols (p&lt;0.05). In the AutoSWEEPS groups, all three FTs had similar amounts of extruded irrigant (p&gt;0.05). Conclusion: In straight root canals, the use of various fiber FTs in the AutoSWEEPS mode exhibited a higher potential for irrigant extrusion.

HepG2 cells reconstituted with Hepatitis B virus (HBV) entry receptor sodium taurocholate co-transporting polypeptide (NTCP) are widely used as a convenient in vitro cell culture infection model for HBV replication studies. As such, it is pertinent that HBV infectivity is maintained at steady-state levels for accurate interpretation of in vitro data. However, variations in HBV infection efficiency due to imbalanced NTCP expression levels in the HepG2 cell line may affect experimental results. In this study, we performed single cell cloning of HepG2-NTCP-A3 parental cells via limiting dilution and obtained multiple subclones with increased permissiveness to HBV. Specifically, one subclone (HepG2-NTCP-A3/C2) yielded more than 4-fold higher HBV infection compared to the HepG2-NTCP-A3 parental clone. In addition, though HBV infectivity was universally reduced in the absence of polyethylene glycol (PEG), subclone C2 maintained relatively greater permissiveness under PEG-free conditions, suggesting the functional heterogeneity within parental HepG2-NTCP-A3 may be exploitable in developing a PEG-free HBV infection model. The increased viral production correlated with increased intracellular viral antigen expression as evidenced through HBcAg immunofluorescence staining. Further, these subclones were found to express different levels of NTCP, albeit with no remarkable morphology or cell growth differences. In conclusion, we isolated subclones of HepG2-NTCP-A3 which support efficient HBV production and thus provide an improved in vitro HBV infection model.

This cross-sectional study evaluated the validity of three alternative methods compared to the gold standard 24-h urine collection for estimating dietary sodium intake, a modifiable risk factor for hypertension, among middle-aged and older adults with elevated blood pressure. These included spot urine collection (using Kawasaki, Tanaka, and INTERSALT equations), 24-h dietary recall, and food frequency questionnaire responses, compared against 24-h urine collection in a subset of 65 participants (aged 50–75 years, 58.5 % women, 61.6 % hypertensive) from the DePEC-Nutrition trial. The validity of the methods was assessed using bias, Spearman correlation coefficient (SCC), intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), and Bland-Altman analysis. Among the alternative methods, spot urine collection using the Kawasaki equation showed the strongest correlation (SCC 0.238; ICC 0.119, 95 % CI -0.079 to 0.323) but it exhibited a significant bias (1414 mg/day, p-value < 0.001) relative to 24-h urine collection. Conversely, dietary surveys had a smaller bias but wider limits of agreement. These findings underscore the complexities of accurately estimating dietary sodium intake using spot urine collection or dietary surveys in this specific population, suggesting that a combination or refinement of existing methodologies might improve accuracy. Further research with larger samples is necessary to develop more reliable methods for assessing sodium intake in this high-risk group.

It is crucial to forecast the water demand accurately for supplying water efficiently and stably in a water supply system. In particular, accurately forecasting short-term water demand helps in saving energy and reducing operating costs. With the introduction of the Smart Water Grid (SWG) in a water supply system, the amount of water consumption is obtained in real time through an advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) sensor, which can be used for forecasting the short-term water demand. The models widely used for water demand forecasting include the autoregressive integrated moving average, radial basis function-artificial neural network, quantitative multi-model predictor plus, and long short-term memory. However, there is a lack of research on assessing the performance of models and forecasting the short-term water demand by applying the data on the amount of water consumption by purpose and the pipe diameter of an end-use level of the SWG demonstration plant in each demand forecasting model. Therefore, in this study, the short-term water demand was forecasted for each model using the data collected from the AMI, and the performance of each model was assessed. The Smart Water Grid Research Group installed ultrasonic-wave-type AMI sensors in the block 112 located in YeongJong Island, Incheon, and the actual data used for operating the SWG demonstration plant were adopted. The performance of the model was assessed by using the residual, root mean square error (RMSE), normalized root mean square error (NRMSE), Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE), and Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC) as indices. The water demand forecast was slightly underestimated in models that employed the assessment results based on the RMSE and NRMSE. Furthermore, the forecasting accuracy was low for the NSE due to a large number of negative values; the correlation between the observed and forecasted values of the PCC was not high, and it was difficult to forecast the peak amount of water consumption. Therefore, as the short-term water demand forecasting models using only time and the amount of water consumption have limitations in reflecting the characteristics of consumers, a water supply system can be managed more precisely if other factors (weather, customer behavior, etc.) influencing the water demand are applied.

Red mud is a hazardous waste of alumina industry that contains high amounts of iron, aluminum, titanium and REEs. One of the promising methods for the extraction of iron from red mud is car-bothermic reduction with the addition of sodium salts. This research focuses on the process of hy-drochloric high-pressure acid leaching using 10–20% HCl of two samples of non-magnetic tailings obtained by 60-minute carbothermic roasting of red mud at 1300 °C and the mixture of 84.6 wt. % of red mud and 15.4 wt. % Na2SO4 at 1150 °C, respectively, with subsequent magnetic separation of metallic iron. An influence of temperature, leaching duration, solid-to-liquid-ratio and acid con-centration on dissolution behavior of Al, Ti, Mg, Ca, Si, Fe, Na, La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sc, Zr were studied. Based on the investigation of the obtained residues, mechanism of passing of valuable elements into the solution was proposed. It has shown that 90% Al, 91% Sc and above 80% of other REEs can be dissolved under optimal conditions; Ti can be extracted into the solution or the residue depending on the leaching temperature and acid concentration. Based on the research results, novel flowsheets for red mud treatment were developed.

Risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), common in childhood cancer survivors (CCSs), may be affected by diet. We assessed sodium (Na) and potassium (K) intake, estimated from food frequency questionnaires (FFQs) and morning urine spots, and its associations with cardiovascular risk in CCSs. We stratified CCS into three risk profiles based on A) personal history (CVD, CVD risk factors, or CVD risk free), B) body mass index (obese, overweight, or normal/underweight), and C) cardiotoxic treatment (anthracyclines and/or chest irradiation, or neither). We obtained a FFQ from 802, and sent a spot urine sample collection kit to 212, of which 111 (52%) returned. We estimated Na intake 2.9 g/day based on spot urine and 2.8 g/day based on FFQ; estimated K intake was 1.6 g/day (spot urine) and 2.7 g/day (FFQ). CCSs with CVD risk factors had a slightly higher Na intake (3.3 g/day), than CCSs risk free (2.9 g/day) or with CVD (2.7 g/day, p = 0.017), and obese participants had higher Na intake (4.2 g/day) than normal/underweight CCSs (2.7 g/day, p<0.001). Daily Na intake was above, and daily K intake below national recommended levels. Adult survivors of childhood cancer need dietary assistance to reduce Na and increase K intake.

The necessity to reduce the effect of the greenhouse phenomenon imposed the turn of the food packaging technology to the use of biobased raw materials decreasing the carbon dioxide fingerprint. In this direction alginates derived from brown algae species are of the most promising biobased biopolymers, used for development of edible active coatings, capable to protect food from oxidation/bacterial spoilage. In this study sodium alginate, which was plasticized with glycerol and mixed with a biobased thymol/natural halloysite nanohybrid, was used to develop novel edible active coatings. Active nanocomposite coatings developed by mixing of pure halloysite with sodium alginate/glycerol matrix were produced for comparison purposes. X-Ray and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy indicated higher compatibility of thymol/halloysite nanohybrid with sodium alginate/glycerol matrix compared to the relevant of pure halloysite. This increased compatibility led to higher tensile properties, water/oxygen barrier properties, and total antioxidant activity. All coating samples were applied as edible active coatings for “tsalafouti” spreadable soft cheese, exhibited a reduction of mesophilic microbial population of more than one log10(cfu/g) unit comparing with uncoated cheese. Moreover, the reduction of mesophilic microbial population was increased by increasing halloysite and thymol content which indicates the sodium alginate/glycerol/thymol/halloysite as promising edible active coatings for “tsalafouti”.

Information taken from David A. Scott’s book “Copper and Bronze in Art” was crucial for research on copper corrosion products in Stuttgart. Examples discussed are the nature and variability of ‘Black Spots’ (aka ‘Brown Fuzzies’); cupric hydroxide by cleaning, patination, and pigment synthesis; the wondrous phenomenon of curly malachite; chalconatronite formed by contact to soda glass; the formation of copper formates by glass-induced metal corrosion; and synthesis and X-ray diffraction of basic copper acetates (‘verdigris’).

Sodium valproate is a established antiepileptic drug of first choice, primarily used to treat epilepsy, but also bipolar disorder and prevent migraine headaches. Valproate increases concentrations of gamma-aminobutyric acid in the brain, due to inhibition of enzymes responsible for the catabolism of gamma-aminobutyric acid. Main goal of this research consisted in the optimization and development for a new sensitive spectrophotometric quantitative analysis method of sodium valproate from tablets in the Visible field. Following the quantitative color reaction of sodium valproate with diazonium salt of alpha naphthylamine in alkaline medium, a light yellow azo dye was formed and spectrophotometrically analyzed at the wavelength of 386 nanometers. The amount of pure sodium valproate found on pharmaceutical extended-release tablet was 492.578 milligrams compared to the official declared pure amount of 500 milligrams on prolonged-release tablet. Amount found was assigned to a percentage content of 98.5156 percent pure sodium valproate in a pharmaceutical tablet. Mean average percentage error (deviation) from the officially stated value was about 1.4844 percent, which was included within normal limits, below five percent maximum limit allowed by European and Romanian Pharmacopoeias rules (5 percent). Spectrophotometric method was subjected to the statistical validation procedure and was successfully validated. Linear regression was analyzed. Method presented a very good linearity over the entire concentrations range 0.16 – 2.08 microgram on milliliter. Linear regression coefficient R square was 0.999330 and the correlation coefficient R was represented by 0.999665, were within the normal ranges of values.

Chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes (T2D), are difficult to manage because they demand continuous therapeutic review and monitoring. Beyond achieving the target HbA1c, new guidelines for the therapy of T2D have been introduced with the new groups of antidiabetics (GLP-1ra and SGLT2-in). Despite new guidelines, clinical inertia, that can be caused by physicians, patients or healthcare system, results in T2D not being effectively managed. This opinion paper explores the shift in T2D treatment, challenging assumptions and evidence-based recommendations, particularly for family physicians, considering the patient's overall situation in decision-making. We looked for the possible reasons of clinical inertia and poor application of guidelines in the management of T2D. Guidelines for antidiabetic drugs should be more precise, providing case studies and clinical examples to define clinical contexts and contraindications. Knowledge communication can improve confidence and should include clear statements on areas of decision-making not supported by evidence. Precision medicine initiative in diabetes aims to identify subcategories of T2D patients (including frail patients) using clustering techniques from data science applications, focusing on CV and poor treatment outcomes. Clear, unconditional recommendations for personalized T2D management may encourage drug prescription, especially for family physicians dealing with diverse patient contexts and clinical settings.

Myr47 lipopeptide consisting of hepatitis B virus (HBV) pre-S1 domain (myristoylated 2-48 peptide) is a commercialized effective anti-HBV drug, preventing the interaction of HBV with sodium taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide (NTCP) on human hepatocytes, of which the activity requires both N-myristoylation residue and specific amino acid sequence. Meanwhile, we recently reported that Myr47 reduces the cellular uptake of HBV surface antigen (HBsAg, subviral particle of HBV) in the absence of NTCP expression (Somiya; et al. Virology 2016, 497, 23–32). In this study, we analyzed how Myr47 reduces the cellular uptake of lipid nanoparticles (including liposomes (LPs) and HBsAg) without NTCP expression. By using Myr47 mutants lacking the HBV infection inhibitory activity, they could reduce the cellular uptake of LPs in an N-myristoylation-dependent manner whereas in an amino acid sequence-independent manner. Moreover, Myr47 and its mutants could reduce the interaction of LPs with apolipoprotein E3 (ApoE3) in an N-myristoylation-dependent manner regardless of their amino acid sequences. From these results, N-myristoyl residue of lipopeptides generally could interfere the LPs/HBsAg-ApoE3 complex formation, thereby reducing the cellular uptake of LPs/HBsAg. When lipid nanoparticles are used as a DDS (drug delivery system) nanocarrier, the surface modification with lipopeptides may be a new method to inhibit unwanted cellular uptake of DDS nanocarriers by non-target cells.

Liver related diseases are the 3rd leading causes (9.3%) of mortality in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Japan. T2DM is closely associated with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) which is the most prevalent chronic liver disease worldwide. Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a severe form of NAFLD, can lead to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and hepatic failure. There are no established pharmacotherapies for NASH patients with T2DM. Though vitamin E is established as a 1st line agent in NASH without T2DM, its efficacy was recently denied in NASH with T2DM. The effects of pioglitazone on NASH histology with T2DM have extensively been established, but several concerns exist such as body weight gain, fluid retention, cancer incidence, and bone fracture. Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists and sodium/glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors are expected to ameliorate NASH　(LEAN study, LEAD trial, and E-LIFT study). Among a variety of SGLT2 inhibitors, dapagliflozin have already entered phase 3 trials (DEAN study). A key clinical question is what kinds of anti-diabetic drugs are the most appropriate for the treatment of NASH to prevent progression of hepatic fibrosis resulting in HCC/liver-related mortality without increasing risk at cardiovascular or renal events. The combination therapies such as glucagon receptor agonist/GLP-1 or gastrointestinal peptide /GLP-1 will be under development. This review focuses on antidiabetic agents and future perspectives on the view of the treatment of NAFLD with T2DM.

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is associated with a high risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular (CV) disease. Contributing pathophysiologic factors include endothelial dysfunction caused by excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), increased activity of nuclear factor kB (NFkB), altered macrophage polarization, and reduced synthesis of endothelial progenitor cells (EPC). Consequently, there can be a potentially rapid progression of the atherosclerotic disease with a higher propensity to unstable plaque, leading to increased cardiovascular mortality. Management is aimed at prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment of hyperglycemia and vascular complications. Innovative therapeutic approaches for T2DM seek to customize the antidiabetic treatment to each patient in order to optimize glucose-lowering effects, minimize hypoglycemia and adverse effects, and prevent cardiovascular events. The newer drugs (Glucagon Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists, GLP-1 RAs; Sodium GLucose coTransporter-2 inhibitors, SGLT2is; DiPeptidyl Peptidase-4 inhibitors, DPP4is) impact body weight, lipid parameters, and blood pressure, as well as endothelial function, inflammatory markers, markers of oxidative stress, and subclinical atherosclerosis. The present review summarizes the results of trials that evaluated the cardiovascular safety of these drugs and found them to be safe from the CV standpoint.

Acellular bacterial ghosts (BGs) are empty non-living bacterial cell envelopes, commonly generated by controlled expression of the cloned lysis gene E of bacteriophage PhiX174. In this study, Vibrio parahaemolyticus ghosts (VPGs) were generated by chemically induced lysis and the method is based on minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of sodium hydroxide (NaOH), acetic acid, boric acid, citric acid, maleic acid, hydrochloric acid and sulfuric acid. The MIC values of the respective chemicals were 3.125, 6.25, < 50.0, 25.0, 6.25, 1.56 and 0.781 mg/ml. Except boric acid, the lysis efficiency was reached more than 99.99% at 5 min after treatment of all chemicals. Among those chemicals, NaOH-induced VPGs showed completely DNA-free that was confirmed by quantitative real-time PCR. Besides, lipopolysaccharides (LPS) extracted from the NaOH-induced VPGs showed no distinctive band on SDS-PAGE gel after silver staining. On the other hand, LPS extracted from wild-type bacterial cells as well as the organic acids-induced VPGs showed triple major bands and LPS extracted from the inorganic acids-induced VPGs showed double bands. It suggests that some surface structures in LPS of the NaOH-induced VPGs may be lost, weakened or modified by the MIC of NaOH. Nevertheless, Limulus amoebocyte lysate assay revealed that there is no significant difference in endotoxic activity between the NaOH-induced VPGs and wild-type bacterial cells. Macrophages exposed to the NaOH-induced VPGs at 0.5 × 106 CFU/mL showed cell viability of 97.9%, however the MIC of NaOH did not reduce the cytotoxic effect of wild-type bacterial cells. Like Escherichia coli LPS, the NaOH-induced VPGs are an excellent activator of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and iNOS), anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-10) and dual activities (IL-6) in the stimulated macrophage cells. On the other hand, the induction of TNF-α mRNA was remarkable in the macrophages exposed with wild-type cells. Scanning electron microscopy showed the formation of trans-membrane lysis tunnel structures in the NaOH-induced VPGs. SDS-PAGE and agarose gel electrophoresis also confirmed that cytoplasmic proteins and genomic DNA released from the VPGs to culture medium through the lysis tunnel structures. Taken together, all these results indicated that the NaOH-induced VPGs show the potency of safe, economical and effective inactivated bacterial vaccine candidate.

The extremely controversial conclusions about the function of human interferon-gamma (hIFNγ) C-terminus as well as the lack of a consistent model explaining its role in the receptor binding prompted us to scrutinize the interaction of hIFNγ with its extracellular receptor hIFNGR1 in different scenarios by means of molecular dynamics simulations. We find that the two molecules alone fail to form a stable complex but the presence of heparan-sulfate-like oligosaccharides largely facilitates the process by both demobilizing the highly flexible C-termini of the cytokine and assisting in the proper positioning of its globule between the receptor subunits. An antiproliferative-activity essay on cells depleted from surface sulfation confirms qualitatively the simulation-based multistage complex-formation model. Our results reveal the key role of HS and its proteoglycans in all processes involving hIFNγ signalling.

Seeds represent the major source of food protein, impacting on both human nutrition and animal feeding. Therefore, seed quality needs to be appropriately addressed in the context of viability and food safety. Indeed, long-term and inappropriate storage of seeds might result in enhancement of protein glycation, which might affect their quality and longevity. Glycation of seed proteins can be probed by exhaustive acid hydrolysis and quantification of the glycation adduct N^ɛ-(carboxymethyl)lysine (CML) by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). This approach, however, does not allow analysis of thermally and chemically labile glycation adducts, like glyoxal-, methylglyoxal- and 3-deoxyglucosone-derived hydroimidazolones. Although enzymatic hydrolysis might be a good solution in this context, it requires aqueous conditions, which cannot ensure reconstitution of seed protein isolates. Because of this, the complete profiles of seed AGEs are not characterized so far. Therefore, here we propose the approach, giving access to quantitative solubilization of seed proteins in presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and their quantitative enzymatic hydrolysis prior to removal of SDS by reversed phase solid phase extraction (RP-SPE). Using MG-H1 as a case example, we demonstrate the applicability of this method for reliable and sensitive LC-MS-based quantification of chemically labile AGEs and its compatibility with bioassays.

Sodium valproate is a established antiepileptic drug of first choice, primarily used to treat epilepsy, but also bipolar disorder and prevent migraine headaches. Valproate increases concentrations of gamma-aminobutyric acid in the brain, due to inhibition of enzymes responsible for the catabolism of gamma-aminobutyric acid. Main goal of this research consisted in the optimization and development for a new sensitive spectrophotometric quantitative analysis method of sodium valproate from tablets in the Visible field. Following the quantitative color reaction of sodium valproate with diazonium salt of alpha naphthylamine in alkaline medium, a light yellow azo dye was formed and spectrophotometrically analyzed at the wavelength of 386 nanometers. The amount of pure sodium valproate found on pharmaceutical extended-release tablet was 492.578 miligrams compared to the official declared pure amount of 500 miligrams on prolonged-release tablet. Amount found was assigned to a percentage content of 98.5156 percent pure sodium valproate in a pharmaceutical tablet. Mean average percentage error (deviation) from the officially stated value was about 1.4844 percent, which was included within normal limits, below five percent maximum limit allowed by European and Romanian Pharmacopoeias rules. Spectrophotometric method was subjected to the statistical validation procedure and was successfully validated.

Hydrogen sulfide is present in active or extinct volcanic areas (mofettas). The habitable premises in these areas are affected by the presence of hydrogen sulfide, which, even in low concentrations, gives off a bad to unbearable smell. If the living spaces considered are closed enclosures, then a system can be designed to reduce the concentration of hydrogen sulfide. This paper presents a membrane way to reduce the hydrogen sulfide concentration to acceptable limits using a cellulosic derivative-propylene hollow fiber based composite membrane module. The cellulosic derivatives considered were carboxymethyl–cellulose (NaCMC), cellulose acetate (CA), methyl 2–hydroxyethyl–cellulose (MHEC), and 2–hydroxyethyl–cellulose (HEC). In the permeation module, hydrogen sulfide is captured with a solution of cadmium that forms cadmium sulfide, usable as a luminescent substance. The composite membranes were characterized by SEM, EDAX, FTIR, FTIR 2D maps, thermal analysis (TG and DSC) and from the perspective of hydrogen sulfide air removal performance. To determine the process performances, the variables were: the nature of the cellulosic derivative–polypropylene hollow fiber composite membrane, the concentration of hydrogen sulfide in the polluted air, the flow rate of polluted air, and the pH of the cadmium nitrate solution. Pertraction efficiency was maximum for the sodium carboxymethyl–cellulose (NaCMC)-polypropylene hollow fiber membrane, a hydrogen sulfide concentration in the polluted air of 20 ppm, polluted air flow rate of 50 L/min, and a pH of 2 and 4.

The present study investigates the relationship between the local structure, photocatalytic ability, and cathode performances in sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) and lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) using Ni-substituted goethite nanoparticles (Ni_xFe_1-xOOH NPs) with a range of 'x' values from 0 to 0.5. The structural characterization was performed applying various techniques, including X-ray diffractometry (XRD), Thermogravimetry differential thermal analysis (TG-DTA), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XANES/EXAFS), both measured at room temperature (RT), and ⁵⁷Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy recorded at RT and at low temperatures (LT) from 20 K to 300 K, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller surface area measurement (BET), and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS). In addition, the electrical properties of Ni_xFe_1-xOOH NPs were evaluated by impedance spectroscopy. XRD showed the presence of goethite as the only crystalline phase in prepared samples with x ≤ 0.20, and goethite and α-Ni(OH)₂ in the samples with x > 0.20. Sample with x = 0.10 (Ni10) showed the highest photo-Fenton ability with a first-order rate constant value (k) of 15.8×10^-3 min^-1. The ⁵⁷Fe Mössbauer spectrum of Ni0, measured at RT, displayed a sextet corresponding to goethite, with an isomer shift (δ) of 0.36 mm s^-1 and a hyperfine magnetic distribution (B_hf) of 32.95 T. Moreover, the DC conductivity decreased from 5.52×10^-10 to 5.30×10^-12 (Ω.cm)^–1 with 'x' increasing from 0.10 to 0.50. Ni20 showed the highest initial discharge capacity of 223 mAh g^-1, attributed to its largest specific surface area of 174.0 m² g^-1. In conclusion, Ni_xFe_1-xOOH NPs can be effectively utilized as visible-light-activated catalysts and active cathode materials in secondary batteries.

Depletion of ore deposits, increasing demand for raw materials, the need to process low-grade, complex and finely disseminated ores and the reprocessing of tailings are challenges, especially for froth flotation separation technologies. Even though capable of handling relatively fine grain sizes the flotation separation of very fine and ultrafine particles faces many problems still. Further, the flotation of low-contrast semi-soluble salt-type minerals with very similar surface properties, many complex interactions between minerals, reagents and dissolved species often result in poor selectivity. This study investigates the flotation beneficiation of ultrafine magnesite rich in dolomite from de-sliming, currently reported to the tailings. The paper especially focuses on the impact of the depressant sodium hexametaphosphate (SHMP) on: (i) the froth properties using dynamic froth analysis (DFA), (ii) the separation between magnesite and dolomite/calcite and (iii) its effect on the entrainment. Furthermore, the application of 1-hydroxyethylene-1,1-diphosphonic acid (HEDP) is a more environmentally friendly and low-cost alternative to SHMP is presented and discussed. The paper contributes to understanding on the complexity of depressant responses in froth flotation.

Heart failure (HF) management in type 1 diabetes (T1D) is particularly challenging due to its increased prevalence and the associated risks of hospitalization and mortality, driven by diabetic cardiomyopathy. Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2-i) offer a promising avenue for treating HF, specifically the preserved ejection fraction variant most common in T1D, but their utility is hampered by the risk of euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). This review investigates the potential of SGLT2-i in T1D HF management, alongside the emergent Continuous Ketone Monitoring (CKM) technology as a means to mitigate DKA risk, through a comprehensive analysis of clinical trials, observational studies, and reviews. The evidence suggests SGLT2-i significantly reduce HF hospitalization and enhance cardiovascular outcomes. However, their application in T1D patients remains limited due to DKA concerns. CKM technology emerges as a crucial tool in this context, offering real-time monitoring of ketone levels, which enables the safe incorporation of SGLT2-i into treatment regimes by allowing for early detection and intervention in the development of ketosis. The synergy between SGLT2-i and CKM has the potential to revolutionize HF treatment in T1D, promising improved patient safety, quality of life, and reduced HF-related morbidity and mortality. Future research should aim at clinical trials directly assessing this integrated approach, potentially guiding new management protocols for HF in T1D.

Protein immobilization for the functionalization of particles is used in various applications, including biosensors, lateral-flow immunoassays (LFIA), bead-based assays, and others. Common methods for the quantification of bound protein are measuring protein in the supernatant before and after coating and calculating the difference. This popular approach has the potential for a significant overestimation of the amount of immobilized protein since layers not directly bound to the surface (soft protein corona) are usually lost during washing and handling. Only the layer directly bound to the surface (hard corona) can be used in subsequent assays. A simplified amino acid analysis method based on acidic hydrolysis and RP-HPLC-FLD of tyrosine and phenylalanine (aromatic amino acid analysis, AAAA) is proposed to directly quantify protein bound to the surface of gold nano- and latex microparticles. The results are compared with indirect methods such as colorimetric protein assays, such as Bradford, bicinchoninic acid (BCA), as well as AAAA of the supernatant. For both particle types, these indirect quantification techniques show a protein overestimation of up to 1700% compared to the direct AAAA measurements. In addition, protein coating on latex particles was performed both passively through adsorption and covalently through EDC/sulfo-NHS chemistry. Our results showed no difference between the immobilization methodologies. This finding suggests that usual protein determination methods are no unambiguous proof of a covalent conjugation on particles or beads.

The increasing global demand for efficient and sustainable energy storage solutions has driven the exploration of sulfur-based battery technologies. Sulfur’s abundance, low cost, and high theoretical energy density make it a promising candidate for next-generation energy storage, particularly in electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy systems. This paper reviews the development of sulfur-based batteries, including lithium-sulfur (Li-S), sodium-sulfur (Na-S), magnesium-sulfur (Mg-S), solid-state sulfur, sulfur-carbon nanocomposites, and hybrid sulfur flow batteries. Each technology is analyzed based on its advantages, challenges, and potential applications. Key research areas such as advanced electrolytes, nanomaterial integration, and sustainable manufacturing are highlighted, along with the current technological barriers to large-scale adoption. This review underscores the importance of continued research and innovation in sulfur-based battery technology to meet future energy storage demands.

Background: Cardiovascular comparisons between glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) and Sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors in type 2 diabetes(T2D) remain an area of interest. Thus, the purpose of this meta-analysis is to compare the impact of these two drug classes on major CV outcomes, such as heart failure hospitalization(HHF), major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), CV mortality, myocardial infarction, stroke, and all-cause mortality, with an emphasis on heart failure hospitalizations. Methods: PubMed (including MEDLINE), Google Scholar, Cochrane Central Library, PLOSONE, and Science Direct databases were searched for studies that compared GLP-1 RAs and SGLT-2 inhibitors in patients with type 2 diabetes. Six cohort studies were selected for the analysis. Odds ratios (OR) with 95% CI were calculated and a random-effects model was used to estimate the hazard ratios (HR) of the studies. The quality of the studies was evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS), and publication bias was assessed using funnel plots and Egger’s test. Results: Pooled analysis demonstrated a significant reduction in heart failure hospitalizations with SGLT-2 inhibitors compared to GLP-1 RAs (HR: 0.78 [0.62–0.98], I² = 87%, p < 0.01). Cardiovascular mortality was also significantly reduced by SGLT-2 inhibitors (HR: 0.74 [0.31–1.67], I² = 87%, p < 0.01), and a modest reduction was observed for all-cause mortality (HR: 0.85 [0.44–1.64], I² = 17%, p = 0.27). While SGLT-2 inhibitors appeared to slightly reduce the risk of myocardial infarction (HR: 0.83 [0.74–0.92], I² = 0%, p = 0.85), no significant difference was observed for MACE (HR: 0.91 [0.82–1.01], I² = 0%, p = 0.70) or stroke (HR: 0.88 [0.77–1.00], I² = 0%, p = 0.85). Conclusions: Compared to GLP-1 receptor agonists, SGLT-2 inhibitors were more effective in lowering heart failure hospitalizations and cardiovascular mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes. It was also found that all-cause mortality and myocardial infarction were moderately reduced using oral agents. However, the differences were not significant for MACE or stroke. These results imply that SGLT-2 inhibitors may potentially provide better cardiovascular benefits, especially with respect to heart failure and cardiovascular mortality, than GLP-1 RA. Further research should be conducted to determine the effects of the long-term use of these therapies on stroke and other cardiovascular events.