Lignosulfonate-based deflocculant and its derivatives for water-based drilling mud: A review.

Chromium-based lignosulfonate (CrLS) deflocculants that are commonly used in water-based drilling muds (WBDMs) to deflocculate bentonites under high temperature (HT), high-pressure (HP), and high-salinity (HS) oil well drilling conditions have been found to contain heavy metals such as chromium, which is toxic and degrades rapidly. However, different ways of addressing this issue have been proffered, including the use of natural polymers such as starch, cellulose, or anionic inorganic agents such as sodium polyphosphates with little or no impact. Other lignosulfonate (LS)-based deflocculants, like sodium-based LS and bio-based LS, have shown a number of benefits, such as being better for the environment, more soluble and evenly distributed in WBDMs, more resistant to salt contamination, easily biodegradable, safe, and able to go through different chemical changes.

Dementia Care Research and Psychosocial Factors.

Background: The emergence of dementia as a global health challenge necessitates an exploration of its unique epidemiological patterns and risk factors in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Amid a growing elderly population, SSA presents an intriguing paradox of lower-than-expected dementia prevalence, prompting a comprehensive review of epidemiological nuances, lifestyle risk factors, cultural influences, and protective factors. This study critically assessed the current state of dementia research in SSA, aiming to inform tailored interventions and policies.

Challenges in Global Distribution and Equitable Access to Monkeypox Vaccines.

The monkeypox outbreak has grown beyond the regions in which it was considered endemic. It has spread from central and west Africa to non-endemic regions like Europe, America, and other parts of the world. It has recently been classified as a public health emergency of international concern.

Research agenda for ending preventable maternal deaths from postpartum haemorrhage: a WHO research prioritisation exercise.

Introduction: Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) remains the leading cause of maternal death. Yet there is a lack of clarity around what research is needed to determine what works and how best to deliver proven PPH interventions. This article describes a WHO-led effort to develop a global PPH research agenda for 2023-2030, to reinvigorate research and innovation while avoiding duplication and waste.