Symbiosis between the Javan rhinoceros and slender-billed crow: A novel inferred cleaning mutualism.

Over the past century, the Javan rhinoceroses' (Rhinoceros sondaicus) secluded nature and low population size have led to a gap in knowledge of their ecology. With fewer than 80 individuals surviving in a single population in West Java, Indonesia, the Javan rhinoceros is one of the most critically endangered mammals in the world. As part of a pilot bioacoustics study of the Javan rhinoceros in 2019, we systematically reviewed camera trap footage from the core Javan rhinoceros range in Ujung Kulon National Park (UKNP). In doing so, we discovered a previously unknown interaction between the Javan rhinoceros and the slender-billed crow (Corvus enca), in which the crow finds and eats ectoparasites from the rhinoceros (Figure 1). We describe this interaction and suggest that it may represent a cleaning mutualism with benefits for both the crow and the rhinoceros.

Early Experience With a Novel Super-Hydrophilic Laparoscopic Scope Cleaning Device and Narrative Review of Available Cleaning Strategies.

BACKGROUND: Impaired visibility is a challenge in laparoscopic surgery. Frequent scope removal increases operative time, reduces efficiency, and potentially compromises patient safety. We examine our initial experience with a novel cleaning device that applies cold plasma to the scope lens and review current available laparoscope cleaning methods. METHODS: The novel device was used in a variety of laparoscopic general surgery cases from April to November 2023. Primary outcome was number of scope removals per case. Secondary outcomes were time spent cleaning and number of times the scope became smudged or dirty with blood/tissue debris (debris events). An existing device that utilizes heated anti-fogging solution was used for comparison. RESULTS: 97 cases were included (31 with novel device and 66 with existing device). Scope removal rate for the novel device was lower compared to the existing device (0.87 ± 1.02 vs 0.97 ± 1.20 removals/case, P = 0.69), but not statistically significant. Average number of debris events was also lower for the novel device, but not statistically significant (0.90 ± 0.94 vs 1.0 ± 1.18 debris events/case, P = 0.69). Average total time spent cleaning per case was similar between devices (16.9 ± 24.0 vs 15.9 ± 18.7 seconds, P = 0.82). CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that a hydrophilic scope cleaning device has comparable performance to heated anti-fogging solution and may reduce scope removals and debris events. Direct comparisons between cleaning products are lacking. Surgeons are most likely to be successful with the cleaning strategy that best suits one's surgical practice.

Enhancing the membrane bioreactor efficiency: The impact of rotating membrane modules and aeration strategies on the transmembrane pressure.

The study analyses the performance of a pilot plant using a rotating hollow fibre (HF) membrane bioreactor system. The experiments evaluated the effect of operational parameters such as rotational speed, aeration strategies, and maintenance cleaning (MC) procedures on the efficiency of the system, in particular transmembrane pressure (TMP) and filtrate quality. The results indicate that the rotating membrane module reduces TMP increase and can operate for 48 days with satisfactory performance, even without aeration. This has the potential to significantly improve efficiency, resulting in significant energy savings. In addition, two MC methods, clean in air and clean in place, were tested and found to be efficient for weekly MC. It was observed that operating without aeration during colder seasons may not be effective. Therefore, adaptive strategies are needed to address seasonal temperature variations.

GLO GERM AND COVID-19: ILLUMINATING HYGIENE AND PROMOTING TRANSMISSION AWARENESS.

Background: Maintaining effective surface hygiene and preventing contamination is of paramount importance. Our study introduces Glo Germ, a versatile product available in various forms, which possesses the unique ability to reveal hidden truths under ultraviolet light, enhance understanding of hygiene, and spread awareness of COVID-19 transmission and preventive measures. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive study was conducted to assess different surface cleaning techniques' effectiveness. Glo Germ, containing a fluorescent dye activated by ultraviolet light, was used to visualize germ spread and compare disinfectant cleaners' efficacy. The study encompassed diverse surfaces and materials, aiming to identify optimal cleaning techniques for each context. Furthermore, a small illustrative study was conducted during a COVID-19 awareness presentation involving students. Glo Germ was applied to hands, revealing its subsequent spread to faces and surfaces. This visual experiment effectively emphasized hand hygiene and mask-wearing importance. Results: Results indicated that while water alone achieved satisfactory cleaning results, using detergent and the appropriate cleaning tools further improved efficacy. Notably, adhering to consistent patterns and applying pressure during cleaning proved essential. The student demonstration showed how contaminants spread quickly, highlighting hand hygiene's significance and the potential extent of contamination through sneezing. Conclusion: Glo Germ inclusion in these experiments highlights its potential in educating about surface cleaning and microbial transmission, offering an interactive and engaging approach to promoting personal hygiene and fostering illness prevention awareness.

Transformation of Graphite Recovered from Batteries into Functionalized Graphene-Based Sorbents and Application to Gas Desulfurization.

The recycling and recovery of value-added secondary raw materials such as spent Zn/C batteries is crucial to reduce the environmental impact of wastes and to achieve cost-effective and sustainable processing technologies. The aim of this work is to fabricate reduced graphene oxide (rGO)-based sorbents with a desulfurization capability using recycled graphite from spent Zn/C batteries as raw material. Recycled graphite was obtained from a black mass recovered from the dismantling of spent batteries by a hydrometallurgical process. Graphene oxide (GO) obtained by the Tour's method was comparable to that obtained from pure graphite. rGO-based sorbents were prepared by doping obtained GO with NiO and ZnO precursors by a hydrothermal route with a final annealing step. Recycled graphite along with the obtained GO, intermediate (rGO-NiO-ZnO) and final composites (rGO-NiO-ZnO-400) were characterized by Wavelength Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence (WDXRF) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) that corroborated the removal of metal impurities from the starting material as well as the presence of NiO- and ZnO-doped reduced graphene oxide. The performance of the prepared composites was evaluated by sulfidation tests under different conditions. The results revealed that the proposed rGO-NiO-ZnO composite present a desulfurization capability similar to that of commercial sorbents which constitutes a competitive alternative to syngas cleaning.

Sustainability and novel technologies to improve environmental cleaning in healthcare - Implications and considerations.

Along with emerging technologies electrolysed water (EW) systems have been proposed for cleaning and/or disinfection in clinical areas. There is evidence for the use of EW in food-handling and the dairy industry however there is lack of evidence for EW as an effective cleaning and disinfecting agent in a clinical setting. Existing publications mostly are either laboratory based or from non-clinical settings. This is in direct contrast to other approaches used in healthcare cleaning. The aim of this paper is to provide infection prevention and control professionals with a risk assessment checklist using an evaluation of electrolysed water as an example of the analysis and consideration required prior to the introduction of any new technology and, in particular, the inclusion of sustainability.

Removal of graffiti paint from construction materials coated with TiO2-based photocatalysts.

Graffiti on construction materials has significant social and economic impacts, especially on artistic and historical artefacts. Anti-graffiti protective coatings are used to generate low surface energies that limit graffiti adhesion to the surface, thereby reducing surface damage and facilitating removal. The anti-graffiti properties of three commercial TiO2-based coatings were tested under outdoor exposure conditions using four colours of graffiti paint (red, blue, black, and white). Chemical removers were used to clean the stained surfaces to understand the impact of the photocatalytic coatings during the conventional cleaning procedure. The effectiveness of cleaning was assessed by visual observations, colour measurements, and the percentage of residual stain. The anti-graffiti efficacy was strongly dependent on the colour of the graffiti and characteristics of the TiO2 coating. The cleaning performance of TiO2-treated samples was likely related to the photocatalytic redox reactions that decompose the graffiti. Additionally, their hydrophilicity may also prevent the adhesion and/or penetration of graffiti paint on the surface and/or pore matrix.

Self-Cleaning Hydrophobic Coating Composed of Micro/Nano-Imprinted Polydimethylsiloxane with Enhanced Light In-Coupling Capabilities.

In this study, we have optimized optically transparent polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) hydrophobic coating on glass substrates that exhibit self-cleaning as well as enhanced light in-coupling capabilities. Micro/nano textures on the surface of PDMS were introduced through micro/nanoimprinting to achieve light trapping as well as self-cleaning abilities. Comprehensive studies show that the periodic arrangement of the micro/nanopatterned features has enabled enhanced inward transmission of light in the visible range along with superior hydrophobicity. The water contact angle (WCA) measurements on these coatings demonstrated a superior capacity for self-cleaning with a WCA of about 117°. Subsequently, when these transparent and hydrophobic coatings were deposited on commercial silicon solar cells, they showed a 15.8% increment in efficiency due to enhanced light in-coupling with a nanopatterned PDMS coating.

A SEM/EDS evaluation of debris removal of used rotary Ni-Ti endodontic files by four different cleaning solutions.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare the efficacies levels of four cleaning solutions for removing debris from rotary Nickel-Titanium (Ni-Ti) endodontic instruments. Materials and methods: Twelve instruments that fractured during ex vivo instrumentation were used. Fractured surfaces were investigated by SEM before and after 3, 6 and 9 min of ultrasonic cleaning in 17 % EDTA.3NaOH (Group A), 2.5 % NaOCl (Group B), Dentasept 3H Rapide (Group C) and ZymeX™ (Group D) solutions. EDS analyses of selected files from all four groups of untreated and ultrasonically cleaned samples were performed to assess the elemental composition of the alloy surfaces. Results: SEM analysis revealed that after 9 min of ultrasonic agitation, all four investigated solutions had cleaned fractured surfaces. However, some low-atomic-number regions exhibited random distributions on the fractured surfaces. EDS analyses indicated that only C was retained on surface after 9 min of ultrasonic cleaning. This finding was common in all tested groups. Conclusions: All four investigated solutions substantially removed debris from the surfaces of the Ni-Ti files and were considered appropriate for clinical practice.

Inconsistent health hazard information across safety data sheets for substances in cleaning products used in healthcare centres.

Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) are used to inform downstream users of any hazardous substances in chemical products and advise on how to manage the risks from using these products. It is therefore important that information on the SDS is accurate and consistent. This study investigates the accuracy and consistency of hazard information included in the SDSs of cleaning products used in the healthcare sector in England and Wales. Data on cleaning products used in the National Health Service (NHS) in England and Wales and their chemical composition and any hazard information (as H-statements) were collected from the products' SDSs obtained from the NHS supply online catalogue. By each hazard, mainly respiratory hazards, the number of hazardous substances specified as hazardous in all SDSs was identified. Moreover, we investigated hazard characteristics of substances identified by only SDS (at least one SDS) or only through Harmonised Classifications and Labeling (CLH) or by SDS and through CLH simultaneously. In total, 229 unique chemical substances were found in 473 cleaning products' SDSs. All 4 respiratory sensitisiers were identified in all SDSs and through CLH. However, only 14 of the 25 respiratory irritants (56.0 %) were consistently labelled across all SDSs. Although respiratory irritation characteristics of 3 substances were classified through CLH, it was not identified by any of the relevant SDSs. Substantially incorrect and inconsistent health hazard information for the same substances was identified across SDSs. Therefore, healthcare workers and their managers may not receive accurate information on the presence of and potential for exposure to hazardous substances in the cleaning products they are using.

Experimental design of a film flow cleaning rig equipped with in-line process analytical technology (PAT) tool for real-time monitoring.

The main purpose of this research was to develop an experimental film flow cleaning rig that can be combined with Process analytical technology (PAT) tools to reduce cleaning time and costs. Here, we show that the use of in-line UV-Vis was successful for real-time monitoring of the cleaning process of olanzapine as a challenging residue to clean. The cleaning process was found to be affected by the properties of the olanzapine soil, and the study showed the competing effects of mechanical lift-off and dissolution action with methanol as a solvent. However, The method is limited by the cleaning mechanisms, with the dissolution being the only mechanism that can be accurately quantified using an in-line UV-Vis PAT tool. This experimental approach can be used to optimize cleaning process conditions and solvent choices at the bench scale before deployment. The material of which the cleaning rig was printed limited the solvent that could be used for this study, and future modifications will include a more chemical-resistant material.

Durable, transparent and superhydrophobic coating with temperature-controlled dual-scale roughness by self-assembled raspberry nanoparticles.

This study focuses on creating a superhydrophobic, durable, and exceptionally transparent coating with dual-scale roughness by naturally formed raspberry-like particles. This approach facilitates the management of surface roughness at both single and dual scales through variations in surface functionalization temperature. We illustrated that adjusting the temperature of organosilanes functionalization on the surface allows for various reactions, such as the direct grafting of metallic precursors or their polymerization on the surface, resulting in the formation of large raspberry-like particles. We investigated the impact of nanoparticle concentration, functionalization duration, and reaction temperature on surface properties. Our results reveal that a concentration of 1.5 % SiO2 nanoparticles, combined with surface functionalization using TCMS for 4 h at 3 °C, provides the optimal conditions for creating a surface that combines superhydrophobicity, transparency, and acceptable durability. The resulting surface exhibits an impressive contact angle of 158.9°, a sliding angle of 2°, and a transmittance rate of 82 %. Furthermore, the coating demonstrates remarkable resistance to abrasion for up to 35 cycles and can withstand temperatures up to 280 °C. It also offers enhanced protection against UV radiation for 50 h and improved resistance to sand abrasion for up to 30 s, enduring bombardment pressures of up to 6 bars. Moreover, the coating presents several advantages in terms of surface cleaning.

A multi-layered infection control intervention on carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii acquisition: an interrupted time series.

BACKGROUND: Carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) causes life-threating hospital-acquired infections in critically-ill patients. Due to a limited number of Intensive-Care-Unit (ICU) beds, these patients are often treated in high-dependency (HD) non-ICUs within internal-medicine wards (IMW) in Israel. We aimed to assess the effectiveness of a multi-layered infection-control intervention on CRAB infection-rate in IMWs, especially in its HD non-ICUs with ongoing CRAB transmission. METHODS: A quasi-experimental, before-and-after, interrupted time-series study with control outcomes conducted from January 2019 through June 2022. We conducted a multi-layered intervention over 3.5 years which included 4 phases: 1) Pre-intervention; 2) Intervention-introduction: introduced enhanced environment cleaning; 3) Intervention phase 1: introduced active surveillance; 4) Intervention phase 2: introduced CRAB-positive patient cohorting, in addition to previous ongoing measures taken. RESULTS: CRAB was isolated from 204 patients aged 69.8y/o ± 15.86y, 59.8% male. CRAB-positive clinical samples were found in 34.3% of these patients. Mean hospital length-of-stay was 30.5 days, with a 30-day post-discharge mortality-rate of 55.9%. Mean CRAB clinical cases decreased from 0.89 in pre-intervention to 0.11 at the end of Phase 2, with a change in slope and level after the intervention of p= 0.02 (CI: -0.204- to -0.040) and p=0.004 (CI: -0.013 to -0.003), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: This multi-layered intervention, including enhanced environment cleaning, active surveillance, and patient cohorting, successfully reduced CRAB acquisition in IMWs and their HD non-ICUs.

Identificación de microorganismos entéricos en áreas de preparación y consumo de alimentos / Identification of enteric microorganisms in food preparation and consumption areas / Identificação de microrganismos entéricos em áreas de preparação e consumo de alimentos

La contaminación de las áreas de preparación al entrar en contacto con los alimentos crudos o cocinados, es por esto que una de las principales causas de la contaminación de las superficies inertes es la inadecuada manipulación de los alimentos a la hora de ser preparados. Con el objetivo de controlar la aplicación de normas de higiene en las áreas de preparación y consumo de alimentos mediante análisis microbiológicos para disminuir los riesgos de contaminación alimentaria. Esta investigación es de carácter descriptivo, en la cual se realizó una inspección visual del establecimiento con el propósito de evaluar las condiciones higiénicas sanitarias, mediante la aplicación de la Guía Técnica para el Análisis Microbiológico de Superficies en contacto con Alimentos y Bebidas. Para el análisis microbiológico de las muestras se emplearon las técnicas de inoculación, método de estriado, aislamiento bacteriano, tinción diferencial y utilización de las pruebas bioquímicas como: TSI, SIM, Citrato de Simmons, Urea, Lisina, Catalasa y Oxidasa, además de la utilización de medios de cultivo selectivo y diferencial como agar EMB y agar MacConkey para la identificación de bacterias entéricas como: E. coli, Salmonella, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Shigella, Pseudomona aeruginosa. Los resultados arrojaron que la frecuencia bacteriana de las superficies inertes de los restaurantes en el área de preparación de alimentos (mesón y tabla de picar) tienen presencia de bacterias: Salmonella con mayor frecuencia; E. coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae y Pseudomonas aeruginosa de mediana frecuencia y de baja para Shigella, y en el área de consumo de alimentos (mesas) la bacteria de mayor frecuencia es la E. coli y Shigella, la Klebsiella pneumoniae de mediana y Pseudomona aeruginosa se encuentra en baja frecuencia. Se llegó a la conclusión que las superficies inertes tanto en el área de preparación como en el área de consumo de alimentos se encuentran contaminados por lo que hay un riesgo de infección alimentaria para los comensales de la Universidad Técnica de Machala.

Contamination of preparation areas when coming into contact with raw or cooked foods, which is why one of the main causes of contamination of inert surfaces is inadequate handling of food when it is being prepared. With the aim of controlling the application of hygiene standards in the areas of food preparation and consumption through microbiological analysis to reduce the risks of food contamination. This research is descriptive in nature, in which a visual inspection of the establishment was carried out with the purpose of evaluating the sanitary and hygienic conditions, through the application of the Technical Guide for the Microbiological Analysis of Surfaces in Contact with Food and Beverages. For the microbiological analysis of the samples, inoculation techniques, streaking method, bacterial isolation, differential staining and use of biochemical tests such as: TSI, SIM, Simmons Citrate, Urea, Lysine, Catalase and Oxidase, in addition to use of selective and differential culture media such as EMB agar and MacConkey agar for the identification of enteric bacteria such as: E. coli, Salmonella, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Shigella, Pseudomona aeruginosa. The results showed that the bacterial frequency of the inert surfaces of the restaurants in the food preparation area (counter and cutting board) have the presence of bacteria: Salmonella more frequently; E. coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa of medium frequency and low frequency for Shigella, and in the food consumption area (tables) the most frequent bacteria are E. coli and Shigella, Klebsiella pneumoniae of medium and Pseudomona aeruginosa It is at low frequency. It was concluded that the inert surfaces in both the preparation area and the food consumption area are contaminated, so there is a risk of food infection for diners at the Technical University of Machala

Contaminação das áreas de preparo ao entrar em contato com alimentos crus ou cozidos, por isso uma das principais causas de contaminação de superfícies inertes é o manuseio inadequado dos alimentos no momento do preparo. Com o objetivo de controlar a aplicação de padrões de higiene nas áreas de preparação e consumo de alimentos através de análises microbiológicas para reduzir os riscos de contaminação alimentar. Esta pesquisa é de natureza descritiva, na qual foi realizada uma inspeção visual do estabelecimento com a finalidade de avaliar as condições sanitárias e higiênicas, por meio da aplicação do Guia Técnico para Análise Microbiológica de Superfícies em Contato com Alimentos e Bebidas. Para a análise microbiológica das amostras foram utilizadas técnicas de inoculação, método de estrias, isolamento bacteriano, coloração diferencial e utilização de testes bioquímicos como: TSI, SIM, Citrato de Simmons, Ureia, Lisina, Catalase e Oxidase, além de utilização de testes seletivos e diferenciais. meios de cultura como ágar EMB e ágar MacConkey para identificação de bactérias entéricas como: E. coli, Salmonella, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Shigella, Pseudomona aeruginosa. Os resultados mostraram que a frequência bacteriana das superfícies inertes dos restaurantes na área de preparo de alimentos (balcão e tábua de corte) apresentam com maior frequência a presença de bactérias: Salmonella; E. coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae e Pseudomonas aeruginosa de média frequência e baixa frequência para Shigella, e na área de consumo alimentar (tabelas) as bactérias mais frequentes são E. coli e Shigella, Klebsiella pneumoniae de média e Pseudomona aeruginosa Está em baixa frequência. Concluiu-se que as superfícies inertes tanto na área de preparação como na área de consumo de alimentos estão contaminadas, pelo que existe risco de infecção alimentar para os comensais da Universidade Técnica de Machala

Superhydrophobic Composite Coatings Can Achieve Durability and Efficient Radiative Cooling of Energy-Saving Buildings.

Passive daytime radiative cooling (PDRC) technology has received a great deal of attention in the field of energy efficiency and environmental protection as a sustainable technology and a large-scale and promising solution to mitigate the environmental impact of global warming. In this study, we prepared PDRC material by combining FEP with modified Al2O3 particles and using the method of spray combined with phase separation. The synergistic effect of the formed surface micronanostructures, combined with the molecular vibration of FEP and the phonon polarization resonance of Al2O3, further improves the optical performance of the PDRC coating. The PDRC coating has an average reflectivity of 0.96 in the solar spectral band (0.3-2.5 µm) and an average emissivity of 0.963 in the atmospheric window band ((8-13 µm). In addition, the PDRC coating had good hydrophobicity, and its water contact angle (WAC) reached 159.3°. Under direct sunlight conditions, PDRC materials have a good temperature drop (4.9 °C) compared to ambient temperatures and radiative cooling power (81.2 W/m2). The prepared coating maintains superhydrophobicity and excellent cooling performance when soaked in solutions of different pH values and UV radiation, which was of great significance for sustainable applications. Our work provides a form of long-term cooling that can be effectively implemented in green and energy-efficient buildings.

Assessing the Impact of Pre-Soaking to Enhance Laundering Efficacy of Firefighter Turnout Gear.

Firefighters are exposed to hazardous chemicals at fire scenes, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) among many others, which pose significant health risks. Current laundering practices are ineffective at removing persistent contaminants from turnout gear, necessitating further research to optimize cleaning methods. This study explores the impact of presoaking prior to the laundering process and the factors that can affect its effectiveness, including the presoaking duration and detergent concentration, in PAH removal when laundering. For this, contaminated fabric swatches were subjected to various presoaking durations (1, 3, and 12 h) and detergent concentrations (99:1 and 90:10 water-to-detergent ratios) before undergoing bench-scale washing. The cleaning efficacy was assessed for 16 PAH compounds, including both low-molecular-weight (LMW) PAHs and high-molecular-weight (HMW) PAHs. Moreover, the removal mechanisms of PAHs from turnout gear were fundamentally explained using partition coefficients and standard affinities with different parameters during washing. The results demonstrate that 3 h and 12 h of presoaking lead to 2.8 and 4.3 times greater HMW PAH removal, respectively. After 12 h of presoaking in a 90:10 water-to-detergent ratio, 97% of the LMW PAHs and 78% of the HMW PAHs were removed, compared to only an 11% removal of the HMW PAHs with a 99:1 ratio. Additionally, direct washing with a 90:10 ratio achieved comparable efficacy to that of presoaking with the same water-to-detergent ratio, indicating the crucial role of detergent concentration during laundering. These findings offer valuable insights for optimizing firefighter safety practices, emphasizing the role of presoaking and the appropriate methods to perform presoaking to mitigate firefighters' occupational exposure risks to toxic substances and ensure gear reliability.

A Review on Traditional and Artificial Intelligence-Based Preservation Techniques for Oil Painting Artworks.

Oil paintings represent significant cultural heritage, as they embody human creativity and historical narratives. The preservation of these invaluable artifacts requires effective maintenance practices to ensure their longevity and integrity. Despite their inherent durability, oil paintings are susceptible to mechanical damage and chemical deterioration, necessitating rigorous conservation efforts. Traditional preservation techniques that have been developed over centuries involve surface treatment, structural stabilization, and gel-based cleaning to maintain both the integrity and aesthetic appeal of these artworks. Recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI)-powered predictive maintenance techniques offer innovative solutions to predict and prevent deterioration. By integrating image analysis and environmental monitoring, AI-based models provide valuable insights into painting preservation. This review comprehensively analyzes traditional and AI-based techniques for oil painting maintenance, highlighting the importance of adopting innovative approaches. By integrating traditional expertise with AI technology, conservators can enhance their capacity to maintain and preserve these cultural treasures for future generations.

Composite Superhydrophobic Coating with Transparency and Thermal Insulation for Glass Curtain Walls.

In this paper, the preparation of a transparent superhydrophobic composite coating with a thermal insulation function using antimony-doped tin oxide (ATO) nanoparticles is proposed, which has advantages of being mass-producible and low-cost. In short, nanosilica and ATO are used as raw materials for constructing rough structures, and superhydrophobic coatings are obtained by mixing and adding binders after modification of each, which are then applied to the surface of various substrates by spraying to obtain a transparent superhydrophobic coating with a heat-insulating function. The specific role of each nanoparticle is discussed through comparative experiments that illustrate the mechanism by which the two particles construct rough structures. The coating achieves unique thermal insulation properties while possessing excellent superhydrophobicity (WCA of ∼163° and WSA of ∼3°) and high light transmission (∼70%). Heat-shielding experiments have demonstrated that the composite coating effectively reduces the room temperature by approximately 19% for the same irradiation time. The coating achieves a balanced improvement in visible transmittance, thermal insulation, and superhydrophobicity. In addition, the coating's self-cleaning properties, mechanical properties, chemical weathering resistance, high-temperature resistance, and anti-icing properties were verified through various experiments.

Effect of ear cleaning on treatment outcome for canine otitis externa.

BACKGROUND: Ear cleaning is often recommended for management of canine otitis externa (OE). Few in vivo studies evaluate how ear cleaning affects treatment outcome. HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES: To determine the effect of ear cleaning on canine OE by comparing treatment outcome in cleaned versus noncleaned ears. ANIMALS: Twenty-three client-owned dogs with ceruminous or purulent OE. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty ears were randomised to one of two groups: 20 ears were wiped with dry or saline-moistened gauze (grp1), and 20 external ear canals received manual cleaning (grp2) with a commercial product. One millilitre of a commercial otic suspension containing hydrocortisone aceponate, miconazole nitrate and gentamicin sulfate was applied to affected ears every 24 h for five days. Cytological scores, modified otitis index score (OTIS3), pruritus Visual Analog Scale (PVAS), modified PVAS and client questionnaire were compared on Day (D)0 and D7. RESULTS: There were no statistical differences between cytological scores, modified OTIS3, PVAS, modified PVAS or client assessments between groups at D7. Both groups had significant reduction in all treatment parameters from D0 to D7 with the exception of cytological rod scores that were only significantly decreased in cleaned ears. There was a significant difference in OTIS3 before and after cleaning on D0. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Both groups achieved successful outcome regardless of cleaning. Ear cleaning may be more important when rod-shaped bacteria are present.

Ultraviolet Grafting of Bismuth Oxide Enhances the Photocatalytic Performance of PVDF Membrane and Improves the Problem of Membrane Fouling.

Photocatalytic membranes are crucial in addressing membrane fouling issues. However, the grafting amount of the catalyst on the membrane often becomes a key factor in restricting the membrane's self-cleaning capability. To address the challenge, this manuscript proposes a method for solving membrane fouling, featuring high grafting rates of bismuth oxide (Bi2O3) and acrylic acid (AA), significant contaminant degradation capability, and reusability. A highly photocatalytic self-cleaning microfiltration membrane made of polyvinylidene fluoride bismuth oxide and acrylic acid (PVDF-g-BA) was prepared by attaching nano Bi2O3 and acrylic acid onto the polyvinylidene fluoride membrane through adsorption/deposition and UV grafting polymerization. Compared with pure membranes and pure acrylic grafted membranes (PVDF-g-AA), the modified membrane grafted with 0.5% bismuth oxide not only improves the grafting rate and filtration performance, but also has higher self-cleaning ability. Furthermore, the degradation effect of this membrane on the organic dye methyl violet 2B under visible light irradiation is very significant, with a degradation rate reaching 90% and almost complete degradation after 12 h. Finally, after repeated filtration and photocatalysis, the membrane can still significantly degrade contaminants and can be reused.