Decrease In Absolute Value Research Articles

Analyzing the mechanism of reducing B content on the coercivity of sintered (Nd, Ce)-Fe-B magnets

In recent years, the research focus has shifted towards the preparation of non-heavy rare earth (RE)-Fe-B magnets with high coercivity (Hcj) by reducing the content of B element. In this work, we achieved resource-saving sintered (Nd, Ce)-Fe-B magnets by adjusting the B element content, optimizing microstructure, and enhancement of Nd/Ce element distribution. We conducted an analysis on the magnetic characteristics, phase composition, microstructure, magnetization reversal mechanism, and economic viability of these sintered magnets. With a decrease in the B element content from 0.96 wt% to 0.90 wt%, there is a increase of approximately 1 kOe in Hcj.At the same time, the temperature coefficient of Hcj has been improved, resulting in a absolute value decrease from 0.67%/°C to 0.63%/°C. The findings suggested that reducing the mass fraction of B element could facilitate the formation of a thicker grain boundary phase between the grains. It could significantly weaken the ferromagnetic coupling effect, and enhance the magnetic isolation effect between grains, resulting in a higher Hcj. From an economic perspective, compared to the cost of magnet with similar coercivity prepared by increasing the RE content, the cost of magnet with low B element content was reduced by 554.4 US$/t, approximately saving 3.08%. This study provides a new theoretical foundation and experimental basis for resource-saving sintered (Nd,Ce)-Fe-B magnet preparation.

Peripheral Blood Lymphocyte Subsets in Factor VIII Inhibitor-Positive Patients with Severe Hemophilia A: A Case-Control Study.

The present study aimed to investigate different peripheral lymphocyte subsets in patients with severe hemophilia A (HA) and factor VIII (FVIII) inhibitor production. For this, age-matched cases of 19 FVIII inhibitor-positive (IP), 21 FVIII inhibitor-negative (IN) and 45 healthy controls were selected for study. Flow cytometry was used to analyze the peripheral lymphocyte subsets, including T, B, natural killer (NK) and NKT cells. The T cell subsets included CD3 + CD4-CD8- [double negative T (DNT)], CD3 + CD4 + CD8+ [double-positive T (DPT)], CD3 + CD4 + CD8- and CD3 + CD4-CD8+ T cells. Pairwise comparisons of absolute lymphocyte subset values were conducted among the three groups. The cut-off value for absolute lymphocyte counts was determined using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. The results demonstrated that the absolute values of DPT cells in the IN and IP groups were significantly lower than those in the healthy control group (P = 0.007). The DNT values were also lower in severe HA patients with or without inhibitor than those in healthy subjects, but these differences were not statistically significant (P = 0.053). In addition, the absolute value of CD4+ Th cells in the IP group was lower than that in the healthy controls (P = 0.013). Although not statistically significant (P = 0.064), the absolute values of NKT cells were higher in the IN group compared with the IP group, and higher in the IP group compared with the healthy control group. There were no statistically significant differences in total T, B, CD8 + and NK cells among the IN, IP and healthy control groups. The cut-off value for absolute CD4+ Th cells in the IN group was < 598/µl. The decrease in absolute values of CD4+ Th cells in severe HA patients may contribute to the establishment of infused FVIII immune tolerance. If the CD4+ Th value remains > 598/µl, clinicians should be vigilant for possible FVIII inhibitor production, especially on days prior to FVIII exposure.

ОСОБЕННОСТИ СИСТЕМНОГО ОТВЕТА НА АДЪЮВАНТНУЮ ЛУЧЕВУЮ ТЕРАПИЮ У НОСИТЕЛЕЙ ПОЛИМОРФИЗМА -308(G/A)TNF БОЛЬНЫХ РАКОМ МОЛОЧНОЙ ЖЕЛЕЗЫ

Background: Adjuvant radiation therapy (ART), an integral part of locoregional breast cance (BC) therapy, acting not only locally, but also systemically and leads to a shift in homeostasis, which is reflected in routine general clinical tests. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) is a proinflammatory cytokine, the production of which can be influenced by the single-nucleotide substitution -308(G/A)TNF. The minor allele -308A can be included in the stable inherited haplotype AH8.1 of the HLA gene complex. At the same time, the carriage of the -308A without the AH8.1 haplotype is associated with a poor prognosis in patients with BC. The aim of the study was to evaluate the features of the systemic response to the course of ART in carriers of TNF-associated genotypes with BC. Material and methods: The sample is represented by 147 BC patients who underwent a course of ART (2 Gy in 25 fractions). Clinical and morphological characteristics and data of general clinical blood analysis were obtained from medical histories. Venous blood samples for the study were obtained at the beginning and at the end of the ART course. Alleles -308(G/A)TNF and marker alleles of haplotype AH8.1 (HLA-A×01, HLA-B×08 and HLA-DRB1×03) were determined by allele-specific PCR. sTNF concentrations were determined by the ELISA in 102 blood plasma samples. Results: TNF-associated comparison groups were identified based on genotyping: (1) 114 carriers -308GG of the TNF gene, regardless of the AH8.1 haplotype (77,6 %); (2) 23 carrier -308A(AH8.1pos) had at least one AH8.1 marker allele (15.6 %); (3) 10 carriers -308A(AH8.1neg) did not have any AH8.1 marker allele (6.8 %). In the -308A(AH8.1neg) group the average concentration of sTNF both at the beginning and at the end of ART was significantly higher and, unlike other comparison groups, did not significantly decrease at the end of the ART course. A significant decrease in absolute values was revealed during ART in a number of cases for leukocytes, platelets and lymphocytes, however within the reference values. In the group -308A(AH8.1neg) correlation analysis revealed a high strength of positive connections between sTNF and leukocytes (r=0.71; p=0.027), platelets (r=0.67; p=0.04), neutrophils (r=0.70; p=0.027) only at the end of ART, whereas at the beginning ART these correlations were weak (r≤0.3) and statistically unreliable. For other genetic groups, the revealed correlations were not strong enough. Conclusion: The revealed features of the systemic response to ART for carriers of a prognostically unfavorable genotype -308A(AH8.1neg) – a high concentration of sTNF and a positive correlation with the content of leukocytes (probably due to neutrophils) and platelets – can be considered as targets of individualized therapy.

Analysis of risk factors for changes of left ventricular function indexes in Chinese patients with gout by echocardiography.

Background: Echocardiographic data investigating the association between left ventricular (LV) function and gout is still limited. Purpose: To analyze the association of echocardiographic parameters based on two-dimentional speckle tracking analysis with clinically related indicators in patients with gout, and to provide a clinical basis for the early diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular disease in patients with gout. Methods: This study collected gout patients who visited the outpatient and inpatient departments of the first affiliated hospital of chengdu medical college from November 2019 to December 2020. Spearman correlation test was performed to analyze the correlation coefficients between the laboratorial indicators with echocardiographic parameters. And the logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the independent effects. Results: The results of multivariate logistic regression showed that fasting plasma glucose (FPG) was a risk factor for the decrease in absolute value of global longitudinal strain [GLS (OR = 2.34; 95% CI, 1.01-5.39; p = 0.04)], Urea was a risk factor for absolute reduction in GCS (OR = 1.40; 95% CI, 1.07-1.85; p = 0.02), age (OR = 1.09, 95% CI, 1.04-1.16; p = 0.001), and hypertension (OR = 8.35; 95% CI, 1.83-38.02; p = 0.006) were risk factors for increased E/Em. High urea levels were significantly related with high risks of LVH (OR = 1.59, 95% CI, 1.04-2.43; p = 0.03) and enlargement of LAVI (OR = 1.68, 95% CI, 1.01-2.80; p = 0.04). Conclusion: Our study found that elevated urea and FPG were risk factors for subclinical LV myocardial dysfunction in patients with gout, which might provide a theoretical basis for the early diagnosis and treatment of heart disease in clinical practice.

Expression of CD39 and CD73 ectonucleotidases in CD4+ lymphocyte populations in healthy children

Purinergic system plays an important role in functional regulation of immune system. Extracellular ATP belongs to non-infectious danger signals (DAMP), has a pro-inflammatory effect and modulates the immune response. The end product of ATP breakdown, adenosine, plays an important role in limiting the inflammatory response. The activity of ectonucleotidase CD39 and CD73 supports the balance of ATP and adenosine at the site of inflammation. CD39 and CD73 expression is characterized by high variability. From the literature data, appropriate studies were carried out either in transgenic mice, or with adult healthy donors. The number of cells expressing CD39 and CD73 in T lymphocyte populations has not been evaluated in healthy children. Hence, our aim was to study the features of CD39 and CD73 expression in various subpopulations of CD4+ lymphocytes in apparently healthy children of different ages.&#x0D; We examined 45 healthy children aged 3.7 to 17.5 years (Me (Q0.25-Q0.75) 12.4 (10-16.1). The numbers of CD4+ cells, regulatory T lymphocytes (Treg CD4+CD25highCD127low), activated T helpers (Tact CD4+CD25+CD127high), and Th17 lymphocytes (CD4+CD161+CD3+) expressing CD39 and CD73 were evaluated by the flow cytometry.&#x0D; The number of cells expressing CD39 and CD73 depends on specific cell subpopulation. The highest content of CD39+ cells was observed in Tregs, and maximal amounts of CD73+ cells were found among Tact subset. In the Th17 lymphocyte subpopulation, there was no significant difference between the number of cells expressing CD39 and CD73. E have also shown an increase in the relative number of Th17 cells expressing CD73, along with age-dependent decrease in the relative number of Tact cells expressing CD39. An age-dependent decrease in absolute values with age was revealed for Treg, CD39+Treg, CD73+Treg, CD39+Th17, thus being consistent with age-related decrease in absolute numbers of lymphocytes and CD4+ cells.&#x0D; The obtained data concerning specific pattern of ectonucleotidases expression in functionally different populations of CD4+ lymphocytes should be taken into account when studying children with immune-mediated diseases from different age groups.

Carbon-enriched organic amendments differently affect the soil chemical, biological properties and plant biomass in a cultivation time-dependent manner

BackgroundThe farmyard manure application maintains quality of arable soils, provides nutrients, mitigates climate change by soil carbon sequestration. Biochar and other complex carbon rich amendments may stabilize organic matter derived by composting and decelerate organic carbon mineralization. However, how the combined utilization of biochar, humic substances and manure effects on soil chemical and biological properties have been least explored, especially their effect on soil basal and substrate induced respirations are needed to be further explored. Therefore, the potential of biochar and Humac (a commercial humic substances product) in combination with manure to improve the soil properties and plant growth was investigated in this experiment using barley under a short-term (12 weeks) and maize under long-term (following 12 weeks, a total of 24 weeks) cultivation.ResultsIn the early phase of cultivation (12 weeks) Humac- or biochar-enriched manures (M + H, M + B, respectively) enhanced the contents of nutrient elements (carbon + 5.6% and + 7%, nitrogen + 6.7% and − 5%, sulphur − 7.9% and + 18.4%), the activity of enzymes including (β-glucosidase + 32% and + 9.6%, phosphatase + 11% and 6.3%), and dry aboveground biomass (+ 21% and + 32%), compared to the control and manure-treated soil. However, these impacts of M + H and M + B manures were reduced under longer period, i.e., at the experiment end (24 weeks). After 24 weeks of cultivation, a decrease in absolute values of all determined enzyme activities indicated putative reduction of mineralization rate due to presumed higher recalcitrance of manure-derived organic matter, with Humac, biochar amendments. Increased stability of soil organic matter reduced microbial activity due to lower availability of nutrients. Possibly, the shortened period of manure maturation could help preserve a higher amount of less degraded organic matter in the enriched manures to counteract these observed features.ConclusionsWe summarized that the biochar and humic substances combined with manure have the potential to improve the soil characteristics, plant biomass and soil health indicators but the improvements faded away in a cultivation time-dependent manner. Further studies are required to explore the structure and functioning of microbial activities under long-term experimental conditions.Graphical abstract

Ionic-liquid-enhanced solvent extraction mechanism: A novel concept

Solvent extraction has been widely used to obtain bitumen from oil sands. In addition, several methods have been used to enhance solvent extraction processes, including the use of ionic liquids. Although a variety of ionic liquids has been used to enhance bitumen recovery, the detailed mechanism is still unclear, while many proposed mechanisms are in fact contradictory. In this study, the solvent extraction mechanism was studied through the evaluation of the role of ionic liquids on the internal properties of heavy oil, as well as in the modification of the oil–solid and oil–water interfaces. The internal properties investigated include the C/H ratio, heavy oil viscosity, and the levels of saturates, aromatics, resins, and asphaltenes (SARA) present. Herein, using the ionic liquids results in a significant increase in the C/H ratio of the heavy oil, as well as the resins and asphaltene content, while the heavy oil viscosity decreases significantly. The ANOVA analysis and Tukey test showed that most ionic liquids-solvent extraction have significant effect on altering the heavy oil recovery, C/H ratio, viscosity and SARA content comparing to solvent alone extraction. It can, therefore, be concluded that ionic liquids are able to modify the oil–solid interface, making the sand surface increasingly hydrophilic, while a similar modification of the oil–water interface results in the decrease of the oil–water interfacial tension with increasing ionic liquid concentration. In addition, when the ionic liquid concentration increases, the zeta potential of CaCO3 in the ionic liquids decreases, whereas the zeta potential of the heavy oil in the ionic liquids increases (absolute value decrease), and then the electrostatic attraction between heavy oil and CaCO3 decreased. The AFM results showed that the ionic liquids could decrease heavy oil–solid interaction forces, and forces decreased with the ionic liquids concentration. The ionic liquids could further be recycled effectively, without significantly decreasing the oil recovery. Finally, ionic liquid adsorption isotherms were fitted employing the Langmuir, Freundlich, and Temkin models, obtaining excellent goodness-of-fit values. However, when the linear model was employed, the goodness-of-fit was poor. The ionic liquid adsorption kinetics further exhibited good fits to pseudo-first and pseudo-second order models. Herein, the increased adsorption of the ionic liquids on calcite surfaces corresponded to low oil recoveries.

Time since hemorrhages of traumatic and non-traumatic genesis into the substance of the human brain formation using distribution of linear dichroism fluctuations reconstruction

For a forensic expert-practitioner, it is especially important to objectively diagnose and time since the formation of hemorrhage (TSFH) in the substance of the human brain (SHB) of traumatic and non-traumatic origin, as there are cases when the external examination of the corpse at the scene are absent, and at internal research find hemorrhages in a brain. In forensic practice, to verify the cause of death, physical-optical methods are successfully used, which are based on laser irradiation of biological tissues with subsequent mathematical and statistical processing of the obtained data. Previous studies on the possibility of differentiating the cause of death by traditional polarization methods have yielded positive results, which suggests the possibility of their suitability for verification of the genesis of hemorrhage into the brain. For a forensic expert-practitioner, the main thing is objectivity, accuracy and speed of obtaining the result, which could fully satisfy the methods of laser polarimetry in the case of determining the TSFH of traumatic and non-traumatic origin in SHB. Therefore, it is necessary to continue the development and research of these methods for this purpose.&#x0D; Aim of the work. To substantiate the possibility of using the method of differential Mueller-matrix mapping of phase anisotropy to determine the temporal dynamics of maps of linear birefringence of histological sections of human brain in determining the age of hemorrhage in human brain substance and to develop forensic criteria for determining the age. death due to cerebral infarction of ischemic and hemorrhagic origin.&#x0D; Materials and methods. To achieve this goal, we studied native histological preparations SHB from 130 corpses with a known time of death. The cause of death was TBI (group II (n=35)), cerebral infarction of ischemic origin (group III (n=32)), hemorrhagic stroke (group IV (n=33)), acute coronary insufficiency (group I – comparison group (n=30)). The values of the distribution of the coordinates of the polarization parameters at the points of the microscopic images at the location of the standard Stokes polarimeter were measured. Experimental measurements of Stokes-parametric images of biological layers were performed according to the method presented in the sources. Subsequently, the obtained data were subjected to statistical processing and evaluation of the obtained results. Statistical moments (SM) of the 1st-4th orders (mean (SM1), variance (SM2), asymmetry (SM3) and excess (SM4)) of each map were determined.&#x0D; Results and discussion. Comparative analysis of polarization Mueller-matrix mapping images of SHB sections from all groups revealed the destruction of the polycrystalline structure formed by optically active protein complexes of the brain substance, which indicates a decrease in absolute values and range of their scatter with increasing hemorrhage time. This is indicated by the coordinate inhomogeneity of the Mueller-matrix invariant maps of histological sections of SHB of all groups. For histograms that characterize the distributions of the Mueller-matrix invariant samples from all (comparison groups 1 and experimental 2-4) groups, are characterized by individual and significant variations in the values of statistical moments. Due to this, with increasing hemorrhage time, the value of the mean (SM1) and variance (SM2) decreases. Asymmetry (SM3) and excess (SM4), on the contrary, increase. The analysis of the results of statistical processing of the topographic structure of LD tomograms of fibrillar networks of histological sections of SHB dead from all groups shows a greater temporal dynamics of necrotic destruction of nervous tissue. Accordingly, there is a faster time decrease in the absolute values and the range of scatter of the LD value with increasing TSFH. That is, the diagnostic sensitivity of the statistical moments of the 3rd and 4th orders for azimuthal-invariant Mueller-matrix differentiation of nerve tissue samples of the brain of the deceased of control group 1 and all experimental groups 2-4 (p&lt;0,05) was revealed.&#x0D; Conclusions. A series of studies of the effectiveness of a new in forensic practice method of differential Mueller-matrix mapping of partially depolarizing histological sections of SHB and tomographic reproduction of optical anisotropy parameters of their polycrystalline structure revealed a high level of accuracy of differentiation and formation of genesis, even under conditions of small geometric thickness of experimental samples. The range of linear change of values of statistical moments of the 1st - 4th orders which characterize distributions of size of LD of fibrillar networks of histologic sections of SHB of the dead from all groups, makes 24 h. In the range of 6-24 hours, the accuracy of determining the TSFH using statistical processing of the topographic structure of LD tomograms of fibrillar networks of histological sections of TSFH is (30±5) minutes.

Efficacy of Oral Administration of Allium sativum Powder “Garlic Extract” on Lipid Profile, Inflammation, and Cardiovascular Indices among Hemodialysis Patients

Background Inflammation plays a prominent role in the deteriorating cardiovascular risk of hemodialysis patients. Utilization of herbal remedies, especially garlic extract, in these patients has resulted in promising improvement in lipid profile, inflammation, and cardiovascular markers. Purpose In this survey, we aimed to determine the effects of oral administration of Allium sativum powder on lipid profile, inflammation, and cardiovascular markers among hemodialysis patients. Methods In this interventional double-blinded randomized crossover study, 70 patients were enrolled and assigned in two groups. Each group received 300 mg of garlic powder BID or placebo for eight weeks; after a six-week wash-out period, the agents were switched between two groups so that the group who received garlic powder in the first eight weeks received placebo for the second eight weeks, and vice versa. Venous blood samples were obtained in baseline, wash-out period, and at the end of study. Following obtaining laboratory data, BUN, creatinine, Na, K, Ca, Ph, homocysteine, and lipid profile were compared. Results No significant differences were shown at baselines of outcomes between the garlic and placebo group (p value>0.05). However, there was a significant decrease in absolute values of OXLDL (mean placebo = 979.63, mean garlic = 676.54; p value<0.001) and HCY (mean placebo = 36.54, mean garlic = 27.78; p value<0.001). In addition, significant treatment differences were seen in change values of Ca (placebo = 1.17, garlic = 0.21; p value = 0.006), TG (placebo = −6.71, garlic = -24.14; p value = 0.014), OXLDL (placebo = −281.30, garlic = -699.78; p value<0.001), and HCY (placebo = −0.24, garlic = −6.68; p value<0.001). Conclusion In this study, Allium sativum powder demonstrated efficacy in lipid profile improvement and renal protective effects among hemodialysis patients.

Information content of insider filings after stock repurchase and seasoned equity issue announcements

AbstractThis paper examines the information content of insider filings after stock repurchase and seasoned equity issue (SEOs) announcements. We find that when firms and insiders trade in the same directions, the absolute value of the market reaction to insiders' purchase filings after stock repurchase announcements is larger than that to insiders' sale filings after SEO announcements. Thus, although insiders' sale filings after SEO announcements still suggest that the stocks are overvalued, the signals may be less informative owing to the confounding effect of some insiders' liquidity needs. When the firms and insiders trade in opposite directions, insiders' purchases after a firm's sale dominate insiders' sales after a firm's purchase, since insiders' purchase always convey positive information about a firm's future. When the firms and insiders trade in the same direction, the abnormal returns following purchases (or sales) depend on the type of insiders who make the trade. The positive (negative) abnormal returns following purchases (sales) decrease in absolute value according to the category of insiders, which is consistent with the information hierarchy hypothesis. When firms and insiders trade in opposite directions, the results are similar, but the magnitude is weak. Based on our results, the insiders who are more familiar with the day‐to‐day operations of the firm would trade on more valuable information than other insiders. Although following CEO trades more closely results in CEOs trading more cautiously, CEOs face less litigation risk and trade more on their informational advantages after event announcements.

Conventional and alternative preimplantation ECG screening for subcutaneous ICD in high risk hypertrophic cardiomyopathy patients

IntroductionPatients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) relatively often fail preimplantation ECG screening for subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (S-ICD). We aimed to evaluate impact of conventional and alternative ECG electrodes placement on eligibility for S-ICD implantation in HCM patients at high risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD). We hypothesized that modified electrodes placement will influence QRS-T morphology and thus it will increase S-ICD eligibility in the screening process. Material and methodsThis study enrolled 17 HCM patients at high risk of SCD (5-year SCD risk above 5%) referred for an ICD implantation. ECG screening for S-ICD eligibility in horizontal and vertical position was performed in each patient, in two different screening electrodes configuration: conventional (recommended by manufacturer) and alternative (precordial electrodes shifted rightwards and lateral electrodes dorsally). We evaluated QRS and T waves amplitude as well as T wave index. Primary, secondary and alternate sensing vectors were assessed. ResultsPreimplantation ECG screening with alternative electrodes placement resulted in more sensing vectors that were screened successfully (77 vs. 88, p = 0.05). Modified screening combined with a standard one allowed more patients to qualify for S-ICD implantation (17/17 vs. 12/17, p = 0.04). Electrocardiographically, the alternative positioning of ECG electrodes resulted in significant decrease in absolute values of QRS complex and T waves amplitudes in almost all sensing vectors, which was responsible for successful screening. ConclusionsThe use of alternative placement of screening electrodes may be a valuable method to increase eligibility for S-ICD implantation in HCM patients at high risk of SCD.

P2463Advanced interatrial block is a surrogate for left atrial strain reduction which predicts atrial fibrillation and stroke

Abstract Background The association between advanced interatrial block (aIAB) and atrial fibrillation (AF) is known as “Bayes' Syndrome”. There is little information on the prognostic role that new speckle tracking echocardiographic (STE) imaging techniques could play in it. Purpose We have examined the relationship between left atrial (LA) STE and the prediction of new-onset AF and/or stroke in IAB patients. Methods Observational study with 98 outpatients: 55 (56.2%) controls with normal ECG, 21 (21.4%) with partial IAB (pIAB) and 22 (22.4%) with aIAB. The end-point was new-onset AF, ischemic stroke, and the composite of both. Results During a mean follow-up of 1.9 (1.7–2.3) years, 20 patients presented the end-point (18 new-onset AF and 2 strokes): 8 (14.5%) in the control group, 3 (14.3%) in pIAB and 9 (40.9%) in aIAB, p=0.03. In multivariable comprehensive Cox regression analyses, a decrease of strain rate during the booster pump function phase (SRa) was the only variable independently related to the appearance in the evolution of the end-point, in the first model (age, P wave duration and SRa): HR 19.9 (95% CI, 3.12–127.5), p=0.002 and in the second (age, presence of aIAB and SRa): HR 24.2 (95% CI, 3.15–185.4), p=0.002. Conclusions In patients with IAB, a decrease in absolute value of LA SRa with STE predicts new-onset AF and ischemic stroke. Acknowledgement/Funding None

Prediction of nanofiltration rejection performance in brackish water reverse osmosis brine treatment processes

A predictive nanofiltration model was built in Python to be used in reverse osmosis brine treatment processes. The model was fitted to rejection data obtained from NF trains functioning as a brine concentrator upstream of a gypsum precipitation reactor at a full-scale mine water treatment plant in Ahafo, Ghana. Over the six month operational period considered (September 2017 – March 2018) the rejection capability of the installed elements deteriorated considerably. This was reflected by a 13% increase in membrane pore radius, 40% decrease in effective active layer thickness and an 18% decrease in absolute value of the feed-membrane Donnan potential. Performance of elements from other manufacturers was simulated by loading their respective properties into the model. Cases modelled included a tightly wound Dow NF 90, a loosely wound Desal DS-5 DL and a Koch TFC SR-2 element. Rejections obtained from the installed MDS elements most closely approximated the performance of a loose NF element. These modelling studies have shown that the NF model built is capable of modelling nanofiltration in brackish water treatment processes. The current disadvantage of the model is the number of membrane—specific input parameters which need to be verified with independent experimentation. As a start, it is recommended that electro-kinetic data be obtained for similar solutions to enable a membrane charge density sub-module to be incorporated into the model.

S3-17 SESSION 3: FACIOCRANIOSYNOSTOSIS – PART I FRONTO-FACIAL MONOBLOC ADVANCEMENT WITH DISTRACTION REDUCES SEVERE OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA IN FACIOCRANIOSYNOSTOSES: PROSPECTIVE ASSESSMENT OF 109 CASES

Introduction: Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is prevalent in children with faciocraniosynostoses and is associated with poor cognitive outcome and risk for increased intracranial pressure. Fronto-facial monobloc advancement (FFMBA) with distraction advances the midface and is performed for OSAS management. Here we aimed to provide a quantitative and prospective assessment of the effects of FFMBA on OSAS in faciocraniosynostoses. Methods: We prospectively included all patients managed for faciocraniosynostoses over a period of 18 years and followed-up their apnea-hyponea index (AHI) based on polysomnographic (PSG) studies, before and after FFMBA with internal distraction. AHI was assessed using several linear and logistic multivariate models, in order to quantify (1) pre-operative AHI values, (2) absolute decrease in AHI values after FFBMA, (3) AHI normalization (AHI<5) after FFMBA, (4) need for a secondary facial advancement and (5) genotype-phenotype correlations. In the second half of the experience, systematical removal of adenoids and tonsils were performed prior to monobloc surgery Results: A total of 109 patients were included and 407 PSG at different time points were collected. We showed a global and significant decrease in AHI after FFMBA: mean pre-operative AHI was 19.11+/-17.25 (19.31+/-18.31 in Crouzon, 17.00+/-11.87 in Apert and 21.82+/-19.38 in Pfeiffer syndrome). The mean post-operative AHI value for all patients was 12.47+/-13.58, which corresponded to a significant decrease from the mean pre-operative value of 19.11+/-17.25 (p<0.05); the decrease from pre-operative values was significant for all three syndromes (p<0.05). Pre-operative lateral and/or posterior decompression was associated with more AHI decrease in absolute value. FFMBA at older ages, Pfeiffer syndrome and pre-operative tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy were associated with more AHI normalization. In this subgroup with premonobloc ENT surgery, the intermediate OSAS (AHI between 10–20) the mean pre-op was 16/h and mean post-op was 11/h. In the severe OSAS patients (pre op AHI >20), the mean pre op was 43/h and mean post op was 15/h. Conclusion: FFMBA is efficient in reducing OSAS in faciocraniosynostoses. Pre-operative adenoido-tonsillectomy and lateral and/or posterior skull decompression are recommended before FFMBA in order to improve the respiratory results of the fronto-facial advancement. Delaying surgery when allowed by the neurosurgical and respiratory medicine teams is also a parameter favoring better respiratory outcomes.

FEATURES OF IMPLEMENTATION AND OPERATION OF PRESSURE WAVES SMOOTHING SYSTEMS IN OIL PIPELINE TRANSPORTATION

Background The scale of PJSC Transneft activities implies a high load and almost uninterrupted operation of the pipeline network. At the same time, during its operation, deviations from the standard modes of transportation, pressure pulsations and hydraulic shocks are possible, the consequences of which can damage equipment or cause damage to the pipe and oil outflow into the environment. A regular or abnormal shutdown of an aggregate or an entire intermediate oil pumping station (OPS) during pumping is accompanied by an increase in pressure, resulting in a steep pressure wave propagating upstream in the direction of the previous station. Due to friction losses, the initial perturbation decays, i.e. its slope and amplitude decrease in absolute value. Reaching the previous station, the increase in pressure wave leads to an increase in pressure at the station outlet. To maintain the setpoint at the LPS outlet, the automatic control system (ACS) of the pressure creates a wave of pressure reduction (vacuum). If the speed of the ACS is not enough to offset the surge pressure, the pressure at the outlet of the pump station can reach the setpoint for the operation of the corresponding station overpressure protection. The action of general station protection comes down to shutting down a single pump or an entire station. When this protection is triggered, a wave of pressure reduction begins to propagate towards the incoming wave of pressure increase downstream. As a result of wave interference, the pressure decreases in the linear part of the pipeline. However, before the wave reaches the previous OPS, the pressure in the section between stations may exceed the allowable working pressure of the pipe sections, which can lead to depressurization of the pipeline. In most cases, in the Transneft system, the protection of line pipes sections from verpressure in transient processes caused by the disconnection of the main pumping unit or the whole pumping station is protected by means of pressure wave smoothing systems. Aims and Objectives The study aim is study of the issues of protection of trunk pipeline facilities from high-pressure waves arising from pressure pulsations, water hammer during normal or abnormal shutdown of pumping units or an intermediate pumping station as a whole, with unauthorized closure of valves, etc. Results The main aspects of the implementation of pressure wave smoothing systems are considered and the economic criteria for their installation on existing and projected oil pipelines are defined. An example is given of the calculation of non-stationary processes necessary to substantiate the expediency of using the high pressure pump at intermediate oil pumping stations. Presents the main types of system designs, features of their operation and planned maintenance.

Advanced interatrial block is a surrogate for left atrial strain reduction which predicts atrial fibrillation and stroke.

The association between advanced interatrial block (aIAB) and atrial fibrillation (AF) is known as "Bayes' Syndrome." There is little information on the prognostic role that new speckle tracking echocardiographic (STE) imaging techniques could play in it. We have examined the relationship between left atrial (LA) STE and the prediction of new-onset AF and/or stroke in IAB patients. This is an observational prospective and unicentric cohort study with 98 outpatients: 55 (56.2%) controls with normal ECG without IAB, 21 (21.4%) with partial IAB (pIAB) and 22 (22.4%) with aIAB. The end point was new-onset AF, ischemic stroke and the composite of both. During a mean follow-up of 1.9 (1.7-2.3)years, 20 patients presented the end point (18 new-onset AF and two strokes): 8 (14.5%) in the control group, 3 (14.3%) in pIAB and 9 (40.9%) in aIAB, p=0.03. In multivariable comprehensive Cox regression analyses, a decrease in absolute value of strain rate during the booster pump function phase (SRa) was the only variable independently related to the appearance in the evolution of the end point, in the first model (age, P-wave duration and SRa): HR 19.9 (95% CI, 3.12-127.5), p=0.002 and in the second (age, presence of aIAB and SRa): HR 24.2 (95% CI, 3.15-185.4), p=0.002. In patients with IAB, a decrease in absolute value of LA SRa with STE predicts new-onset AF and ischemic stroke. Future studies should confirm our results and assess the prognostic usefulness of LA STE in patients with IAB.

Thermoelectric properties and chemical potential tuning by Cu-doping in n-type ionic conductors CuxAg2−xSe0.5Te0.5

Copper and silver chalcogenides with superionic conduction behavior have shown impressively high ZT values, but there has been no intensive effort to optimize their carrier density to further improve their ZT values. Here, we prepared polycrystalline CuxAg2−xSe0.5Te0.5 (x = 0.01, 0.05, 0.1) samples using high temperature melting followed by hot-press sintering, and characterized their thermoelectric properties. We demonstrated that Cu substitution for Ag was achieved with <10% Cu content for CuxAg2−xSe0.5Te0.5 and the Cu doping was quite effective and significantly enhanced the compound's n-type carrier density, which was one order of magnitude higher than the pristine Ag2Se0.5Te0.5 (4.10 × 1018 cm−3). Impressively, the enhancement in electrical conductivity with increasing Cu content was greater than the decrease in absolute value of the Seebeck coefficient in the superionic conduction state. This led to relatively high power factors for Cu0.1Ag1.99Se0.5Te0.5, ranging between 1.10 and 1.30 mW m−1 K−2 over the broad temperature range of 400–560 K, and resulted in the highest ZT of 0.85 at 560 K. Furthermore, ZT values approached >0.7 over a wide temperature range of 460–560 K for x > 0.05. We suggest that the unusual Cu doping effect in Ag2Se0.5Te0.5 can be attributed to the creation of Cu ion conduction in addition to Ag ion conduction, and the optimization of the compound's n-type carrier density.

Long-term dynamics of suspended matter in Naroch lakes: Trend or intervention

The long-term dynamics of suspended matter in the Naroch lakes has been analyzed with the help of autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) models. A comparison of the models showed that, apart from seasonal fluctuations, all Naroch lakes have been affected by dramatic impact, which has resulted in a rapid decrease in absolute values and fluctuation decrease of seston concentration. The models indicate that, in contrast to lakes Naroch and Myastro, the dynamics of the seston concentration in Lake Batorino is characterized by a longer period of stabilization after the impact that occurred in 1991.

Systolic longitudinal strain correlates with visual assessment of regional left ventricular function during dobutamine stress echocardiography and discriminates the segments with induced contractility impairment.

The relationship between visual and strain assessment of left ventricular (LV) function during dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE) remains poorly investigated. We assessed systolic longitudinal strain (SLS) and strain rate (SLSR) in segments visually graded as normokinetic, hypokinetic, or akinetic at baseline (0) and peak stage (1) of DSE and compared deformation changes between segments with and without induced contractility worsening. From 250 patients examined by DSE, 238 patients with diagnostic test were included, mean age of 62±9years (105 females). Regional LV contractility was assessed visually and measured using SLS and SLSR in 4284 segments. The LV segments during baseline and peak stage of DSE revealed gradual decrease in absolute values of SLS (from 17.7±6.4% in normokinetic to 11.7±8.4% in akinetic segments at rest, and from 17.2±8.5% to 14.4±7.8% at peak, P<.001), as measured by automated function imaging (AFI) and SLSR (from 1.1±0.37s-1 in normokinetic to 0.9±0.29s-1 in akinetic at rest, and from 2.32±0.92 to 2.13±0.85s-1 at peak). The decrease in SLS in segments with contractility worsening was higher than in segments without induced impairment (ΔSLS 2% vs 0%, P<.0001 for all LV segments and 2% vs 1%, P=.02 in mid-LV segments). Absolute value of regional SLS <23% at peak DSE and decrease in SLS >2% from baseline showed 90% and 76% sensitivity for the detection of contractility impairment. Strain analysis quantifies segmental LV contractility not only at rest and peak DSE but may be helpful in detection of stress-induced contractility worsening.

Excess enthalpies and excess volumes of binary mixtures containing a linear carboxylic acid + di-iso-propyl ether at 298.15 K and 0.1 MPa

Molar heat of mixing and volume change of mixing, coinciding with molar excess enthalpies, H E, and molar excess volumes, V E, respectively, of binary mixtures composed by a linear saturated aliphatic acid of general formula: CH3(CH2)u-2–CO2H [u = 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8] + di-iso-propyl ether, [(CH3)2CH−]2O, have been measured in the whole range of mole fraction at 298.15 K and 0.10 MPa. The H E experimental determinations have been realized by means of a mixing flow calorimetric apparatus, and V E have been calculated from density data acquired by using a vibrating tube densitometer. Mixing is exothermic for all investigated systems. The values at equimolar composition, H x=0.5 E , are in the range: (−385 ± 1 to −140 ± 4) J mol−1. The more negative value is attributable to butanoic acid-containing mixture; then, H E decrease in absolute value as the alkyl chain of the acid increases. For the same systems, the V E trends are different: the value at equimolar composition, V x=0.5 E , always negative, increase regularly in absolute value as the alkyl chain length of the acid increases from –1.12 × 10−6 m3 mol−1 for mixtures containing ethanoic acid to −1.75 × 10−6 m3 mol−1 for octanoic acid-containing mixtures.