Disentangling microbial coupled fillers mechanisms for the permeable layer optimization process in multi-soil-layering systems.

The multi-soil-layering (MSL) systems is an emerging solution for environmentally-friendly and cost-effective treatment of decentralized rural domestic wastewater. However, the role of the seemingly simple permeable layer has been overlooked, potentially holding the breakthroughs or directions to addressing suboptimal nitrogen removal performance in MSL systems. In this paper, the mechanism among diverse substrates (zeolite, green zeolite and biological ceramsite) coupled microorganisms in different systems (activated bacterial powder and activated sludge) for rural domestic wastewater purification was investigated. The removal efficiencies performed by zeolite coupled with microorganisms within 3 days were 93.8% for COD, 97.1% for TP, and 98.8% for NH4+-N. Notably, activated sludge showed better nitrification and comprehensive performance than specialized nitrifying bacteria powder. Zeolite attained an impressive 89.4% NH4+-N desorption efficiency, with a substantive fraction of NH4+-N manifesting as exchanged ammonium. High-throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed that aerobic and parthenogenetic anaerobic bacteria dominated the reactor, with anaerobic bacteria conspicuously absent. And the heterotrophic nitrification-aerobic denitrification (HN-AD) process was significant, with the presence of denitrifying phosphorus-accumulating organisms (DPAOs) for simultaneous nitrogen and phosphorus removal. This study not only raises awareness about the importance of the permeable layer and enhances comprehension of the HN-AD mechanism in MSL systems, but also provides valuable insights for optimizing MSL system construction, operation, and rural domestic wastewater treatment.

Integrative approaches to improve litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) plant health using bio-transformations and entomopathogenic fungi.

Bio-transformations refer to the chemical modifications made by an organism on a chemical compound that often involves the interaction of plants with microbes to alter the chemical composition of soil or plant. Integrating bio-transformations and entomopathogenic fungi into litchi cultivation can enhance symbiotic relationships, microbial enzymatic activity in rhizosphere, disease suppression and promote overall plant health. The integration of biological formulations and entomopathogenic fungi can significantly influence growth, nutrient dynamics, physiology, and rhizosphere microbiome of air-layered litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) saplings. Biological modifications included, K-mobilizers, AM fungi, Pseudomonas florescence and Azotobacter chroococcum along with Metarhizium, entomopathogenic fungi have been used. The treatments included, T1-Litchi orchard soil + sand (1:1); T2-Sand + AM fungi + Azotobacter chroococcum (1:2:1); T3-Sand + Pseudomonas florecence + K-mobilizer (1:1:1); T4- AM fungi + K-mobilizers (1:1); T5, P. Florecence + A. chroococcum + K-mobilizer (1:1:1); T6-Sand + P. florecence (1:2) and T7-Uninoculated control for field performance. Treatments T4-T6 were further uniformly amended with drenching of Metarrhizium in rhizosphere. T2 application significantly increased resident microbe survival, total chlorophyll content and root soil ratio in seedlings. A. chroococcum, Pseudomonas, K-mobilizers and AM fungi increased in microbial biomass of 2.59, 3.39, 2.42 and 2.77 times, respectively. Acidic phosphatases, dehydrogenases and alkaline phosphatases were increased in rhizosphere. Leaf nutrients reflected through DOP were considerably altered by T2 treatment. Based on Eigen value, PCA-induced changes at biological modifications showed maximum total variance. The study inferred that the bio-transformations through microbial inoculants and entomopathogenic fungi could be an encouraging strategy to enhance the growth of plants, health and productivity. Such practices align well with the goals of sustainable agriculture through biological means by reducing dependency on chemical inputs. By delving into these aspects, the research gaps including microbial processes, competitive and symbiotic relationships, resistance in microbes and how complex interactions among bio-transformations, entomopathogenic fungi and microbes can significantly impact the health and productivity of litchi. Understanding and harnessing these interactions can lead to more effective and sustainable farming practices.

Exosomal fragment enclosed polyamine-salt nano-complex for co-delivery of docetaxel and mir-34a exhibits higher cytotoxicity and apoptosis in breast cancer cells.

A novel core-shell nanocarrier system has been designed for co-delivery of a small anticancer drug, docetaxel (DTX) and tumor suppressor (TS) miR-34a named as Exo(PAN34a+DTX). The core is formed by pH dependent polyamine salt aggregates (PSA) containing both the payloads and the shell is formed by RAW 264.7 cell derived exosomal fragments. Herein, phosphate driven polyallylamine hydrochloride (PAH, MW:17,500 Da) PSA was formed in presence of miR-34a and DTX to form PAN34a+DTX. The formulation exhibited pH dependent DTX release with only 33.55 ± 2.12% DTX release at pH 7.2 and 75.21 ± 1.8% DTX release till 144 h at pH 5.5. At 1.21 molar ratio of phosphate to the amine (known as R value), efficient complexation of miR-34a (3.6 µM) in the PAN particles was obtained. PAN34a+DTX demonstrated particle size (163.86 ± 12.89 nm) and zeta-potential value of 17.53 ± 5.10 mV which upon exosomal fragment layering changed to - 7.23 ± 2.75 mV which is similar to the zeta-potential of the exosomal fragments, i.e., - 8.40 ± 1.79 mV. The final formulation Exo(PAN34a+DTX), loaded with 40 ng/mL DTX and 50 nM miR-34a exhibited 48.20 ± 4.59% cytotoxicity in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells, 4T1. Co-localization of CM-DiI (red fluorescence) stained exosomal fragments and FAM-siRNA (green fluorescence) in the cytoplasm of 4T1 cells after 6 h of Exo(PANFAM) treatment confirmed the efficiency of the designed system to co-deliver two actives. Exo(PAN34a+DTX) also reduced BCL-2 expression (target gene for miR-34a) by 8.98 folds in comparison to free DTX confirming promising co-delivery and apoptosis inducing effect of Exo(PAN34a+DTX) in 4T1.

Intensification Approaches and Treatment Sequencing in Metastatic Castration-resistant Prostate Cancer: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Recently, research on treatment intensification has gathered momentum, and three novel therapy combinations were approved for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). This systematic review summarizes the current and emerging evidence around intensified strategies for mCRPC and provides guidance for an ideal therapeutic sequencing. METHODS: Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Protocols (PRISMA-P) guidelines were followed to perform this review. PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, ClinicalTrials.gov, and major international societies' online proceedings were searched comprehensively until May 15, 2024, for terms related to treatment intensification and sequencing for mCRPC. KEY FINDINGS AND LIMITATIONS: Overall, 28 clinical trials and 24 ongoing studies of intensification treatments were included in this review. Algorithms of optimal sequencing of approved treatments for mCRPC were outlined according to the use of androgen receptor pathway inhibitors (ARPIs) with or without docetaxel for earlier disease states. In first line, poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitor + ARPI combinations improve radiographical progression-free survival (rPFS), particularly for those with BRCA1/2 alterations. The AKT inhibitor combination of ipatasertib + abiraterone extends rPFS in those with PTEN loss or PIK3CA/AKT1/PTEN alterations. In those with two or more risk factors for early progression on enzalutamide, radionuclide 177-Lu-PSMA-617 + enzalutamide prolongs progression-free survival. Ongoing research of intensified approaches for mCRPC, and available and potential predictive and prognostic biomarkers are discussed. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Recent approvals and ongoing investigations of single agents and intensification approaches will keep transforming the mCRPC treatment landscape. Improvement of patient profiling applying recognized genomic, molecular, and clinical predictive and prognostic indicators is fundamental to optimize sequential use of available therapies.

Precision layering techniques: Integrating digital tools for accurate color matching and realistic try-ins in anterior composite restorations.

OBJECTIVE: This article aims to demonstrate the clinical application of a comprehensive workflow that integrates digital tools for accurate color matching, and its immediate implementation in the restoration of anterior teeth. CLINICAL CONSIDERATIONS: Two patients demonstrating dissatisfaction regarding a maxillary central incisor had an old restoration replaced resorting to a digital workflow to enhance the predictability of the new direct restoration. OptiShade allowed the precise assessment of tooth color and the CompoShade application provided precise color and material selection, as well as the determination of a layering strategy. Precision and accuracy of the colorimeter and the composite layering application were demonstrated clinically in vivo. CONCLUSIONS: Implementing a digital workflow with the integration of OptiShade measurements and the CompoShade layering recipe calculation, as well as the respective realistic try-in, enables the achievement of precise color matching for anterior composite restorations. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The employment of a digital colorimeter and layering recipes simplify shade matching, and optimizes composite resin clinical use and success. The implementation of a realistic try-in, previous to the definitive restoration, allows the clinician to perform any adjustments if needed.

How to grow crystals for X-ray crystallography.

Growing high-quality crystals remains a necessary part of crystallography and many other techniques. This article tabulates and describes several techniques and variations that will help individuals grow high-quality crystals in preparation for crystallographic techniques and other endeavors, such as form screening. The discussion is organized to focus on low-tech approaches available in any laboratory.

Flowable bulk-fill versus layering restorative material on Class II restorations: A randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the clinical performance of Class II restorations made with flowable bulk-fill base versus conventional layering ORMOCER-based restorative material in a split-mouth randomized clinical trial. METHODS: Thirty patients received two class II restorations (n = 60) performed with different strategies. All preparations received the application of the universal self-etching adhesive system according to the manufacturer's recommendation, followed by the placement of a sectional matrix, wooden wedge, and separation ring. The first restoration was performed using 4 mm of flowable bulk-fill material covered by 2 mm of conventional viscosity restorative material (Bulk-fill technique). The second restoration was performed only with the conventional viscosity material, with a maximum of 2 mm thick increments, up to fill the cavity (Layering technique). After occlusal adjustment, the same polishing system was used for all restorations. Evaluations using the FDI criteria were conducted after 7 days, 12, and 24 months. Data were analyzed with the Fisher's Exact test (α=0.05). RESULTS: From 30 participants, 24 attended the 24-month recall, and 48 restorations were evaluated. All restorations received acceptable overall scores for esthetic and biological properties after this period, while only 6.66 % of the restorations exhibited unacceptable overall scores for the functional properties in both groups. No significant differences between the tested restorative materials and techniques were found for each FDI criterion assessed. The success rate after 2 years was 93.33 % for both groups. CONCLUSION: Both restorative materials exhibited good clinical performance for the parameters analyzed with no differences between them after 24-month follow-up. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Flowable bulk-fill ORMOCER-based material is a suitable alternative for direct Class II restorations, providing good clinical outcomes and simplifying the restorative procedure. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: RBR-6mvp9w.

New Perspectives in Overcoming Bulk-Fill Composite Polymerization Shrinkage: The Impact of Curing Mode and Layering.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of different light curing modes on the polymerization shrinkage of a bulk-fill composite and to evaluate the impact of two layering techniques on the cuspal deflection. METHODS: Nine different light curing modes were tested on bulk-fill composite samples in aluminum MOD cavities. Intensity, duration, and illumination distance were the factors that changed during the different curing modes. The digital image correlation method was used to visually represent the displacement of carbon particles on the materials' surface caused by shrinkage along both the horizontal and vertical axes. For simulating cuspal deflection, a separate protocol was used, with a bulk and horizontal layering technique. RESULTS: The results showed that the largest horizontal displacements were present in the soft start group (6.00 ± 0.82 µm) and in the X-tra power group (5.67 ± 1.21 µm). The smallest horizontal displacements were detected in normal curing modes (4.00 ± 1.58 µm; 4.00 ± 2.68 µm). The largest vertical displacements, at the bottom layer, were present in the normal curing mode group with a 20 s curing time (5.22 ± 1.56 µm), while the smallest vertical displacements were shown in the X-tra power group (2.89 ± 0.60 µm). The observed particle displacements showing the shrinkage of the composite were correlated with the curing mode. The bulk-fill group showed less cuspal deflection than the horizontal layering group did, but the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.575). CONCLUSIONS: Within the limitations of this in vitro study, it can be concluded that lower intensities of curing lights (1200 mW/cm2) may perform better from the point of view of material shrinkage than high and extreme light intensities do. The pulse delay mode might be recommended in the case of bulk-fill materials. The number of layers did not significantly affect the cuspal deflection in the case of the studied composite.

Evaluation of shear bond strength based on substructure materials and ceramic veneering techniques.

PURPOSE: Bilayered restorations have both the strength of the substructure material and the esthetics of the veneer material; however, they should have appropriate bonding between the two materials. This study aimed to evaluate the shear bond strength (SBS) according to the substructure material and veneering technique used in bilayered restorations. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The experimental group was divided into four groups (n = 15 per group) based on the substructure materials (cobalt-chromium [Co-Cr] alloy and 3 mol% yttrium-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystal [3Y-TZP]) and veneering techniques (pressing and layering). Veneering was performed with disk shape (diameter: 5 mm, height: 2 mm) on a substructure using each veneering technique. Shear stress was applied to the interface of the substructure and the veneering ceramic using a universal testing machine. The shear bond strength, according to the substructure and veneering technique, was analyzed using a two-way analysis of variance with a post-hoc Tukey's honestly significant difference test. The failure mode was observed, and the surface was analyzed using a scanning electron microscope and energy-dispersive spectroscopy. RESULTS: The shSBS of the Co-Cr alloy and 3Y-TZP substructure was not different (p > 0.05); however, the pressing technique showed a higher SBS than the layering technique (p < 0.05). The SBS did not differ depending on the veneering technique in the Co-Cr alloys (p > 0.05), whereas the SBS in the pressing technique was higher than that in the layering technique for 3Y-TZP (p < 0.05). In the layering technique, the Co-Cr alloy showed a higher SBS than 3Y-TZP (p < 0.05). In the failure mode, mixed failure occurred most frequently in all groups. Extensive elemental interdiffusion was observed through the opaque layer in the Co-Cr alloy, regardless of the veneering technique. In 3Y-TZP, a wider range of elemental interdiffusion was observed in the pressing technique than in the layering technique. CONCLUSIONS: In bilayered restorations with a 3Y-TZP substructure, the pressing technique yielded higher bonding strength than layering. Using the layering technique, 3Y-TZP showed a lower SBS than the Co-Cr alloy. In bilayered restorations using 3Y-TZP as a substructure, the veneering technique and thermal compatibility of the materials must be considered.

Enhancing pollutant removal efficiency in urban domestic wastewater treatment through the hybrid multi-soil-layering (MSL) system: A case study in Morocco.

This paper evaluates the performance and potential of a full-scale hybrid multi-soil-layering (MSL) system for the treatment of domestic wastewater for landscape irrigation reuse. The system integrates a solar septic tank and sequential vertical flow MSL and horizontal flow MSL components with alternating layers of gravel and soil-based material. It operates at a hydraulic loading rate of 250 L/m2/day. Results show significant removal of pollutants and pathogens, including total suspended solids (TSS) (97%), chemical oxygen demand (COD) (88.57%), total phosphorus (TP) (79.93%), and total nitrogen (TN) (88.49%), along with significant reductions in fecal bacteria indicators (4.21 log for fecal coliforms and 3.90 log for fecal streptococci) and the pathogen Staphylococcus sp. (2.43 log). The principal component analysis confirms the effectiveness of the system in reducing the concentrations of NH4, COD, TP, PO4, fecal coliforms, fecal streptococci, and fecal staphylococci, thus supporting the reliability of the study. This work highlights the promising potential of the hybrid MSL technology for the treatment of domestic wastewater, especially in arid regions such as North Africa and the Middle East, to support efforts to protect the environment and facilitate the reuse of wastewater for landscape irrigation and agriculture.

Historical institutionalism and institutional design: divergent pathways to regime complexes in Asia and Europe.

Why and how do pathways to regime complexes diverge? Building on insights from the literatures on institutional design and historical institutionalism, we argue that early institutional design choices produce long-term variation in the pace, density, and composition of institutional layers within a regime complex. In a first step, we argue that if an institution becomes focal, this increases the exit costs for member-states to leave. Additional institutional layers become a more likely outcome. In a second step, we argue that depending on the focal organization's formal or informal design, variegated sovereignty costs inform the additional layering pathways. If a focal organization is formal, sovereignty costs are high for member-states. Consequently, creating additional institutional layers becomes cumbersome, leading to a slow pace of "negotiated layering" and a regime complex characterized by low density and composed of formal and informal institutions. In contrast, low sovereignty costs associated with informal focal organizations enable a rapid process of "breakout layering" resulting in a high density of mostly informal institutions. We develop our argument by examining the evolution of security institutions in Europe and Asia through diplomatic cables, treaty texts, personal memoirs, and policy memos.

Influence of attaching mechanical retentive devices onto frameworks on fracture resistance of implant-supported zirconia crowns.

This study investigated the fracture load of implant-supported zirconia crowns (IZCs), in which indirect composite resin or feldspathic porcelain was layered onto zirconia frameworks with mechanical retentive devices. Three different zirconia frameworks were assessed: attaching mechanical retentive devices on glaze and opaque porcelain materials (GL and OP groups, respectively), and no attaching mechanical retentive devices (ND group). The frameworks were layered using feldspathic porcelain (FP veneer) and indirect composite resin (IC veneer). Fracture load of the specimens was measured. In FP veneer, the GL group recorded the highest fracture load. In the IC veneer, the GL and OP groups had significantly higher fracture load than the ND group. The fracture resistance of IZCs can be enhanced by applying glaze material before attaching mechanical retentive devices for porcelain layering. The mechanical retentive devices effectively yielded mechanical interlocking between the zirconia frameworks and the IC veneer in GL and OP groups.

Eco-friendly management of harmful cyanobacterial blooms in eutrophic lakes through vertical flow multi-soil-layering technology.

Eutrophication has led to the widespread occurrence of cyanobacterial blooms. Toxic cyanobacterial blooms with high concentrations of microcystins (MCs) have been identified in the Lalla Takerkoust reservoir in Morocco. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of the Multi-Soil-Layering (MSL) ecotechnology in removing natural cyanobacterial blooms from the lake. Two MSL pilots were used in rectangular glass tanks (60 × 10 × 70 cm). They consisted of permeable layers (PLs) made of pozzolan and a soil mixture layer (SML) containing local soil, ferrous metal, charcoal and sawdust. The main difference between the two systems was the type of local soil used: sandy soil for MSL1 and clayey soil for MSL2. Both MSL pilots effectively reduced cyanobacterial cell concentrations in the treated water to very low levels (0.09 and 0.001 cells/mL). MSL1 showed a gradual improvement in MC removal from 52 % to 99 %, while MSL2 started higher at 90 % but dropped to 54% before reaching 86%. Both MSL systems significantly reduced organic matter levels (97.2 % for MSL1 and 95.8 % for MSL2). Both MSLs were shown to be effective in removing cyanobacteria, MCs, and organic matter with comparable performance.

Effect of Macro Fibers on the Permeability and Crack Surface Topography of Layered Fiber Reinforced Concrete.

This paper describes the effects of macro fibers on permeability and crack surface topography of layered fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC) specimens with different layering ratios under uniaxial tensile load. The crack permeability of layered FRC specimens is investigated by a self-designed permeability setup. The topographical analysis of crack surfaces is investigated by a custom-designed laser scanning setup. The results show that when the fiber volume content and layering ratio of the FRC layer are constant, the tensile toughness of layered FRC specimens depends on the proportion of steel fiber in macro fibers, and with an increase in the proportion of steel fiber, the tensile toughness of layered FRC specimens increases. For the layered FRC specimens, the crack permeability is much lower than that of the normal concrete (NC) specimen. A significant positive synergistic effect on crack impermeability can be achieved by the combination of steel fiber and polypropylene fiber in the SF80PP2.3 specimen. The crack surface roughness parameter (Rn) values of the NC layer in layered FRC specimens are all higher than those of the NC specimen, and the crack surface Rn of the FRC layer in layered FRC specimens is higher than that of the unlayered FRC specimens. This can effectively increase the head loss of cracks and reduce the crack permeability of layered FRC specimens.

Colon Drug Delivery Systems Based on Swellable and Microbially Degradable High-Methoxyl Pectin: Coating Process and In Vitro Performance.

Oral colon delivery systems based on a dual targeting strategy, harnessing time- and microbiota-dependent release mechanisms, were designed in the form of a drug-containing core, a swellable/biodegradable polysaccharide inner layer and a gastroresistant outer film. High-methoxyl pectin was employed as the functional coating polymer and was applied by spray-coating or powder-layering. Stratification of pectin powder required the use of low-viscosity hydroxypropyl methylcellulose in water solution as the binder. These coatings exhibited rough surfaces and higher thicknesses than the spray-coated ones. Using a finer powder fraction improved the process outcome, coating quality and inherent barrier properties in aqueous fluids. Pulsatile release profiles and reproducible lag phases of the pursued duration were obtained from systems manufactured by both techniques. This performance was confirmed by double-coated systems, provided with a Kollicoat® MAE outer film that yielded resistance in the acidic stage of the test. Moreover, HM pectin-based coatings manufactured by powder-layering, tested in the presence of bacteria from a Crohn's disease patient, showed earlier release, supporting the role of microbial degradation as a triggering mechanism at the target site. The overall results highlighted viable coating options and in vitro release characteristics, sparking new interest in naturally occurring pectin as a coating agent for oral colon delivery.

Calculation method and evaluation of surrounding rock pressure of vertical shaft.

The surrounding rock pressure of vertical shafts is one of the basic parameters of shaft lining design. Investigating its calculation methods and applicable scopes has great engineering significance. The paper classifies and compares the calculation methods, discusses the application scopes of various calculation methods, and proposes that the axisymmetric layered method is highly consistent with the field monitoring data for the calculation of surrounding rock pressure of vertical shafts in bedrock sections on the basis of practical engineering examples. On the basis of Terzaghi theory, the calculation formula of surrounding rock pressure of vertical shaft in inclined rock strata with single group joints is derived. The formula can reflect the influence of rock strata dip angle and joints.

Unlocking the potential of bacterioplankton-mediated microcystin degradation and removal: A bibliometric analysis of sustainable water treatment strategies.

Microcystins (MCs) constitute a significant threat to human and environmental health, urging the development of effective removal methods for these toxins. In this review, we explore the potential of MC-degrading bacteria as a solution for the removal of MCs from water. The review insights into the mechanisms of action employed by these bacteria, elucidating their ability to degrade and thus remove MCs. After, the review points out the influence of the structural conformation of MCs on their removal, particularly their stability at different water depths within different water bodies. Then, we review the crucial role played by the production of MCs in ensuring the survival and safeguarding of the enzymatic activities of Microcystis cells. This justifies the need for developing effective and sustainable methods for removing MCs from aquatic ecosystems, given their critical ecological function and potential toxicity to humans and animals. Thereafter, challenges and limitations associated with using MC-degrading bacteria in water treatment are discussed, emphasizing the need for further research to optimize the selection of bacterial strains used for MCs biodegradation. The interaction of MCs-degrading bacteria with sediment particles is also crucial for their toxin removal potential and its efficiency. By presenting critical information, this review is a valuable resource for researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders involved in developing sustainable and practical approaches to remove MCs. Our review highlights the potential of various applications of MC-degrading bacteria, including multi-soil-layering (MSL) technologies. It emphasizes the need for ongoing research to optimize the utilization of MC-degrading bacteria in water treatment, ultimately ensuring the safety and quality of water sources. Moreover, this review highlights the value of bibliometric analyses in revealing research gaps and trends, providing detailed insights for further investigations. Specifically, we discuss the importance of employing advanced genomics, especially combining various OMICS approaches to identify and optimize the potential of MCs-degrading bacteria.

Wurster Technology-Assisted Step-by-Step Engineering of Multi-layered Pellets (Sprinkles): Microscopy, Micro-CT, and e-Tongue-Based Analysis.

The advancement in the formulation and characterization techniques have paved the path for development of new as well as modification of existing dosage forms. The present work explores the role of micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) as advanced characterization technique for multi-layered-coated pellets to ascertain the quality of coated pellets. The work further explored in-house e-tongue technique for understanding palatability of formulation in early stages of development thus by reducing clinical taste evaluation time. The developed multi-layered-coated pellets were characterized using microscopy (optical and electron microscopy). The obtained results demonstrated formation of spherical-shaped pellets with uniform coating. The uniform coating was further confirmed by results obtained from scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and cross-sectional SEM analysis, which showed visible difference in pellet surface before and after multi-layered coating. The micro-CT results confirmed the visible demarcation of layers (drug and polymer, i.e., hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and eudragit (EPO)) along with uniform thickness of various layering. The dissolution study of developed pellets suggested the role of layering EPO on drug release from pellets. The e-tongue analysis proved to be an excellent tool for early prediction of taste masking of drug via multi-layered pellets and can serve as potential platform for taste masking with high specificity. The overall results suggest the suitability of developed multi-layered platform as efficient dosage form (sprinkle) in pediatric/geriatric product development.

Multidetector CT Imaging Biomarkers as Predictors of Prognosis in Shock: Updates and Future Directions.

A severe mismatch between the supply and demand of oxygen is the common sequela of all types of shock, which present a mortality of up to 80%. Various organs play a protective role in shock and contribute to whole-body homeostasis. The ever-increasing number of multidetector CT examinations in severely ill and sometimes unstable patients leads to more frequently encountered findings leading to imminent death, together called "hypovolemic shock complex". Features on CT include dense opacification of the right heart and major systemic veins, venous layering of contrast material and blood, densely opacified parenchyma in the right hepatic lobe, decreased enhancement of the abdominal organ, a dense pulmonary artery, contrast pooling in dependent lungs, and contrast stasis in pulmonary veins. These findings are biomarkers and prognostic indicators of paramount importance which stratify risk and improve patient outcomes. In this review, we illustrate the various CT patterns in shock and review the spectrum and prognostic significance of thoraco-abdominal vascular and visceral alarming signs of impending death with the intention of increasing awareness among radiologists and radiographers to prepare for immediate resuscitation when required.