Low Weight Research Articles

Long-term safety of lanthanum carbonate in the real word: a 19-year disproportionality analysis from the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System

Background Lanthanum carbonate is widely used to manage serum phosphate and calcium levels in end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) patients, yet comprehensive long-term safety data are lacking. This study leverages the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) to assess the extended safety profile of lanthanum carbonate. Research design and methods We analyzed FAERS data (2004-2022) to study the association between lanthanum carbonate and adverse events (AEs). Using MedDRA v25.0, we identified risk signals through System Organ Classes (SOCs) and Preferred Terms (PTs). Disproportionality analyses quantified lanthanum carbonate-associated AE signals. Results Among 3,284 reports, 2,466 were primary suspected AEs linked to lanthanum carbonate. Males reported AEs more frequently than females. Patients aged over 64 represented the majority. Median onset time for lanthanum carbonate-related AEs was 146 days. Gastrointestinal disorders were prevalent. We identified 16 new signals, including stress, abnormal hepatic function, cholelithiasis, bile duct stone, gastric cancer, and adenocarcinoma gastric. Stress was notable, particularly in male patients over 65 and those with lower weight. Conclusions This study affirms lanthanum carbonate’s long-term safety for reducing elevated blood phosphorus levels. While gastrointestinal disorders were common, attention must focus on emerging AEs, particularly stress, especially in elderly patients.

Investigation of the effect of load weight on the discharge capacity of lithium–o2 batteries using carbon-paper–based electrodes

We prepared carbon electrodes with nearly uniform thickness and varying loading weights using carbon paper (CP) as a support material and current collector for single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). These electrodes were used as the positive electrode in a lithium–O2 battery, tested at a lower voltage limit of 2.4 V with a fixed current of 0.26 mA/cm2 (0.5 mA). Results demonstrated that the discharge gravimetric capacity (capacity normalized per weight of SWCNTs) did not change significantly for loading weights ≥0.42 mg/cm2. However, for loading weights <0.42 mg/cm2, the discharge gravimetric capacity exhibited an inverse correlation with weight. Analysis of the prepared electrodes revealed that at very low SWCNT loading weights, the sheets of SWCNTs became extremely thin, leading to occasional tears. Nonetheless, these structural changes had no significant impact on the specific surface area or contact resistance. Further analysis of the post-test electrodes using scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction, along with considerations of the carbon paper's surface area as a percentage of the total electrode surface, led to the conclusion that at low loading weights, CP actively contributes to the discharge process and serves as a deposition site for Li2O2. Consequently, when the weight of the active material falls below a certain threshold, there is a risk of misperception, potentially leading to an overestimation of the discharge capacity.

Effects of Photoperiod Treatments on Stock Plants and Cutting Rooting of Three Cultivars of Ornamental Perennials

Many species of herbaceous perennials now have numerous cultivars, with growth habits and flower colors unique to each cultivar. Vegetative propagation is required so that resulting plants are genetically identical to the parent plant. Although many cultivars are selected for precocious and vigorous flowering, it is often difficult to collect adequate vegetative cuttings from such cultivars for commercial production because juvenile (vegetative) growth is preferred for high-quality cuttings. Cuttings that are reproductive (with flower buds or flowers) can have reduced or delayed rooting and increased occurrences of fungal pathogens (especially Botrytis species), resulting in lack of crop uniformity. We sought to answer the question, can growing stock plants of herbaceous perennials under defined photoperiods extend the length of the vegetative period and enhance the rooting of cuttings harvested from these stock plants? In this study, stock plants of ‘P009S’ twinspur (Diascia integerrima), ‘Furman's Red’ sage (Salvia greggii), and ‘Wild Thing’ sage (Salvia greggii) were grown under ambient, 12-hour light, 10-hour light, and 8-hour light to determine if a particular photoperiod could be used to suppress reproductive growth by promoting vegetative growth, thereby enhancing cutting rooting success. Effects of photoperiod treatments varied among the plant cultivars studied. Plants grown under 8-hour photoperiod had longer duration of vegetative growth, smaller growth rates, and lower dry weights when compared with plants grown under 12-hour or 10-hour photoperiod. Plants grown under 12-hour photoperiod had shorter duration of vegetative growth, larger growth rates, and higher dry weights when compared with plants grown under 10-hour and 8-hour photoperiods. The probability of rooting of cuttings harvested from stock plants of ‘P009S’ twinspur, ‘Furman’s Red’ sage, and ‘Wild Thing’ sage grown under 12-hour and 10-hour photoperiods was greater when compared with cuttings harvested from stock plants grown under 8 h photoperiod.

Cerebral white matter hyperintensities in adults born small for gestational age at 12 years after cessation of childhood growth hormone treatment: a prospective cohort study including untreated controls

Increased cerebrovascular morbidity was reported in adults born small for gestational age (SGA) who were treated with growth hormone (GH) during childhood compared to the general population. Yet, previous studies lacked an appropriate control group which is a major limitation. We prospectively studied cerebral white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) in adults born SGA at 12 years after cessation of childhood GH-treatment (SGA-GH), compared to appropriate controls. In this prospective cohort study, performed between May 2016 and December 2020, total WMHs, periventricular WMHs (PVWMHs) and deep WMHs (DWMHs) were the primary outcomes of the study, they were qualitatively assessed using 3Tesla (T) Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and scored using the Fazekas scale in SGA-GH adults and in 3 untreated control groups: adults born SGA with persistent short stature (SGA-S), adults born SGA with spontaneous catch-up growth to a normal height (SGA-CU) and adults born appropriate for gestational age with a normal height (AGA). Regression analyses were performed in the total cohort to evaluate the associations of GH-treatment and birth characteristics with WMHs. 297 adults were investigated (91 SGA-GH, 206 controls). Prevalence of total WMHs was 53.8% (95% CI 43.1-64.3) in SGA-GH, 40.5% (95% CI 25.6-56.7) in SGA-S, 73.9% (95% CI 61.9-83.7) in SGA-CU and 41.1% (95% CI 31.1-51.6) in AGA adults. No statistically significant differences in total WMHs, PVWMHs and DWMHs were found between SGA-GH compared to SGA-S and AGA adults. Highest prevalence of all type of WMHs was found in SGA-CU adults compared to all groups. Higher prevalence of total WMHs was associated with lower birth weight standard deviation score (SDS), but not with GH-treatment. Our findings suggest that GH-treatment in children born SGA has no negative impact on the prevalence of all type of WMHs at 12 years after GH cessation compared to appropriate controls. SGA-CU adults had the highest prevalence of all type of WMHs around age 30 years. Novo Nordisk.

Effects of essential amino acids supplementation in a low-protein diet on growth performance, intestinal health and microbiota of juvenile blotched snakehead (Channa maculata)

Developing a low-protein feed is important for the sustainable advancement of aquaculture. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of essential amino acid (EAA) supplementation in a low-protein diet on the growth, intestinal health, and microbiota of the juvenile blotched snakehead, Channa maculata in an 8-week trial conducted in a recirculating aquaculture system. Three isoenergetic diets were formulated to include a control group (48.66 % crude protein (CP), HP), a low protein group (42.54 % CP, LP), and a low protein supplementation EAA group (44.44 % CP, LP-AA). The results showed that significantly lower weight gain (WG), specific growth rate (SGR), protein efficiency ratio (PER), and feed efficiency ratio (FER) were observed in fish that were fed LP than in the HP and LP-AA groups (P < 0.05). The HP and LP-AA groups exhibited a significant increase in intestinal villus length, villus width, and muscular thickness compared to the LP group (P < 0.05). Additionally, the HP and LP-AA groups demonstrated significantly higher levels of intestinal total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and lower levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) compared to the LP group (P < 0.05). The apoptosis rate of intestinal cells in the LP group was significantly higher than those in the LP and HP groups (P < 0.05). The mRNA expression levels of superoxide dismutase (sod), nuclear factor kappa B p65 subunit (nfκb-p65), heat shock protein 70 (hsp70), and inhibitor of NF-κBα (iκba) in the intestine were significantly higher in the LP group than those in the HP and LP-AA groups (P < 0.05). The 16s RNA analysis indicated that EAA supplementation significantly increased the growth of Desulfovibrio and altered the intestinal microflora. The relative abundances of Firmicutes and Cyanobacteria were positively correlated with antioxidant parameters (CAT and T-AOC), whereas Desulfobacterota was negatively correlated with sod and T-AOC. The genera Bacillus, Bacteroides, and Rothia were associated with the favorable maintenance of gut health. In conclusion, dietary supplementation with EAAs to achieve a balanced amino acid profile could potentially reduce the dietary protein levels from 48.66 % to 44.44 % without adversely affecting the growth and intestinal health of juvenile blotched snakeheads.

High-temperature oxidation behaviors of Co-free Cr30Fe30Ni30Al5Ti5 dual-phase multi-component alloys with multi-scale nanoprecipitates

In the context of the growing research interest in multi-component alloys (MAs) and their exceptional performance under extreme environments, the high-temperature oxidation resistance and applications of MAs have attracted significant attention in the field of metallic materials. While the cost-effective and mechanical properties of Co-free MAs are of great importance, their oxidation resistance remains insufficiently understood. In this work, we designed multiple heterogeneous structures within a cast dual-phase Cr30Fe30Ni30Al5Ti5 MA by tailoring the Al and Ti ratio, which consists of body-centered-cubic (BCC) grains reinforced by multi-scale nanoprecipitates (i.e., L21, B2, and η phase) and an L12-strengthened face-centered cubic (FCC) skeleton. Isothermal oxidation experiments at 800 °C, 1000 °C, and 1200 °C with varying exposure durations were conducted. The oxidation kinetics at 800 °C and 1000 °C followed a parabolic law, while both low weight increment and oxidation rate confirm remarkable oxidation resistance. At 800 °C, the oxides mainly consist of Cr2O3 and Al2O3, while are dominated by (TiO2 + Cr2O3) and the mixed oxides of Al2O3, TiO2, and Ti2O above 1000 °C. Importantly, the inability to form a continuous Al2O3 oxide scale at higher temperatures led to a deterioration in oxidation resistance. These findings offer valuable insights into underlying mechanisms contributing to oxidation resistance for Co-free MAs.

Effect of Herbal Kunapajala and Different Organic Manures on Plant Growth, Quality and Yield of Withania Somnifera L. Dunal

Abstract: Cultivation of medicinal plants, especially high value medicinal plants is creating new dimension in the field of agriculture. The need for developing countries to acquire technologies and techniques for programmed cultivation of medicinal plants is a current issue. Ashwagandha, the 3rd important prioritized medicinal plant listed by National Medicinal Plant Board (NMPB) is also known as Indian Ginseng. Herbal medicines strongly involve mass appeal being safer and inexpensive. The traditional use of ‘Ashwagandha was to increase energy, youthful vigour, endurance, strength, health, nurture the time elements of the body, increase vital fluids, muscle fat, blood, lymph, semen and cell production. The total alkaloid content in the roots of the Indian types has been reported to vary between 0.13 and 0.31%, though much higher yields (upto to 4.3%) have been recorded elsewhere. In all, 13 components have been obtained chromatographically. Herbal kunapajala can be used as nutrient supplement at any growth stage of crop plant. The effectiveness of herbal kunapajala is due to the breakdown of complex compounds in to lower molecular weight compounds during the fermentation of ingredients and this make available nutrients to the plants. So, this study is planned to evaluate the effect of herbal kunapajala and organic manure on ashwagandha.

Application of Continuous Stability Control to a Lightweight Solar-Electric Vehicle Using SMC and MPC

This paper investigates the application of contusion stability yaw control of a lightweight solar-electric vehicle. The vehicle’s customized design envelope makes it more sensitive to variations in load due to its low weight and relatively large size. To address this issue, control strategies were developed using differential motor torques to generate direct yaw moments using the vehicle’s rear in-wheel motors. This paper introduces the working conditions of solar vehicles and demonstrates the necessity of stability control. Vehicle parameters such as mass and center of gravity position are obtained to apply control to the real vehicle. The paper then describes two stability control strategies, using (i) sliding-mode control (SMC) and (ii) model predictive control (MPC). To account for the road bank angle of the test area and the impact of additional weight from a driver and passenger, a Kinematic-Based Observer is designed to estimate the vehicle’s side-slip based on measured values. To collect real-time data, a dSPACE MicroAutobox was installed on the solar vehicle. The results show the effect of the observer and controllers under different vehicle speeds and load conditions. Finally, closed-loop simulation results are presented to support the findings from the open-loop testing.

A Comparative Analysis of Low and High SiC Volume Fraction Additively Manufactured SiC/Ti6Al4V(ELI) Composites Based on the Best Process Parameters of Laser Power, Scanning Speed and Hatch Distance

Silicon carbide (SiC) exhibits intriguing thermo-physical properties such as higher heat capacity and conductivity, as well as a lower density than Ti6Al4V(ELI). These properties make SiC a good candidate for the reinforcement of Ti6Al4V(ELI) with respect to its use as a heat shield in aero turbines to increase their efficiency. The traditional materials used in aircraft structures were required to have a combination of good mechanical properties such as strength, stiffness, and hardness and low weight, as well as low thermo-physical properties such as coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) and thermal conductivity. The alloy Ti6Al4V(ELI) has a density of 4.45 g/cm3, which is lower than that of structural steel (7.4 g/cm3) and higher than that of aluminium (2.5 g/cm3). Lower density benefits light weighting. Aluminium is the lightest of the traditional materials used but has relatively low strength. The CTE of SiC of 4.6 × 10−6/K is lower than that of Ti6Al4V(ELI) of 8.6 × 10−6/K, while the density of SiC of 3.21 g/cm3 is lower than that of Ti6Al4V(ELI) of 4.45 g/cm3. Therefore, from the theory of composites, SiC/Ti6Al4V(ELI) composites are expected to have lower densities and CTEs than those of Ti6Al4V(ELI), thus providing for lightweighting and less thermal related buckling or separation at their joints with carbon/epoxy resin panels. The specific strength, stiffness, and Knoop hardness of SiC of 75–490 kNm/kg, 132 MNm/kg, and 600–3800 GPa, respectively, are generally larger than those of Ti6Al4V(ELI) of 211 KNm/kg, 24 MNm/kg, and 880 GPa, respectively. Therefore, investigating reinforcement of Ti6Al4V(ELI) with SiC particles is worthwhile as it will lead to the formation of composites that are stronger, stiffer, harder, and lighter, with lower values of CTE. For additive manufacturing, this requires initial studies to optimise the process parameters of laser power and scanning speed for single tracks. To print single tracks in the present work, different laser powers ranging from 100 W to 350 W and scanning speeds ranging from 0.3 m/s to 2.7 m/s were used for different SiC volume fraction values of values. To print single layers, different values of hatch distance were used together with the best values of laser power and scanning speed determined elsewhere by the authors for different volume fractions of SiC. Through optical microscopy, the built tracks and their cross sections were examined. By using laser power and scanning speeds of 200 W and 1.2 m/s, and 150 W and 0.8 m/s, respectively, the best tracks at 5% and 10% volume fractions were obtained, whereas the best tracks at 25% volume fraction were achieved using a laser power of 200 W and a scanning speed of 0.5 m/s. Furthermore, the results showed that the maximum SiC volume percentage of 30% resulted in limited or no penetration. Therefore, it is concluded from the study that parts with improved mechanical properties can be produced at SiC volume fractions ranging from 5% to 25%, while parts produced at the high volume fraction of 30 % would have unacceptable mechanical qualities for the final part.

Effect of high plant protein diet supplemented with Lysophospholipids-butyrate on the growth performance, liver health and intestinal morphology of Largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides)

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation with lysophospholipids-butyrate (LPB) in a high plant protein diet on the growth performance, liver health, and intestinal morphology of Largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). Three experimental diets were formulated: a positive control diet (PC) containing 15.00 % soybean meal (SBM) and 13 % chicken meal；a high-plant-protein diet (HPP) with 28.00 % SBM; a diet (LPB) supplemented LPB at 0.1 % in HPP. Largemouth bass with an average initial body weight of 9.3 g were fed for 60 days, with 4 replicates per group and 20 fish per replicate. The results demonstrated that the HPP group exhibited significantly lower final body weight (FBW), weight gain rate (WGR) and specific growth rate (SGR) compared to the PC group. Moreover, the HPP diet induced a notable increase in liver collagen fiber and liver lipid content, which was alleviated by LPB supplementation. In comparison to the HPP group, the LPB group showed significant increases in serum albumin and albumin/globulin, along with a significant decrease in alanine aminotransferase activity (P < 0.05). Compared with the PC group, the mRNA levels of acetyl-CoA carboxylase-1 (ACC-1), diacylglycerol acyltransferase (DGAT), carnitine palmitoyl transferase-1 (CPT-1) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in HPP group were increased significantly (P < 0.05), while adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL), hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) as well as apoptotic gene B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) were significantly down-regulated. The mRNA levels of fatty acid synthase (FAS), ACC-1, peroxisome proliferator activated receptor-α (PPAR-α), ATGL, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and Bcl-2 were up-regulated (P < 0.05), while DGAT and TNF-α were down-regulated in the LPB supplemented groups than that in the HPP group (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the supplementation of 0.1 % LPB can alleviate liver lipid accumulation and fibrosis caused by high level of soybean meal.

Vaginal matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) as a potential early predictor of preterm birth.

To evaluate the differences in vaginal matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) in pregnant patients with a history of prior preterm birth compared with controls. A prospective cohort pilot study recruited patients during prenatal care with history of prior spontaneous preterm birth (high-risk group) or no history of preterm birth(low-risk/controls). Inclusion criteria were singleton gestation at 11-16weeks and between 18 and 55 years of age. Exclusion criteria were diabetes mellitus, hypertension, diseases affecting the immune response or acute vaginitis. A vaginal wash was performed at time of enrollment, and patients were followed through delivery. Samples were analyzed using semi-quantitative analysis of MMPS and TIMPS. The study was approved by the IRB and a p value <0.05 was considered significant. A total of 48 pregnant patients were recruited: 16 with a history of preterm birth (high-risk group) and 32 with no history of preterm birth (low-risk group/controls). Groupswere similar in age, race, BMI, and delivery mode. The high-risk group had more multiparous women (100 vs. 68.8 %; p=0.02), a greater preterm birth rate (31.2 vs. 6.3 %; p=0.02), and a lower birth weight (2,885±898 g vs. 3,480±473 g; p=0.02). Levels of vaginal MMP-9 were greater in high-risk patients than low-risk patients (74.9 %±27.0 vs. 49.4 %±31.1; p=0.01). When dividing the cohort into patients that had a spontaneous preterm birth (7/48, 14.6 %) vs. those with a term delivery (41/48, 85.4 %), the vaginal MMP-9 remained elevated in the cohort that experienced a preterm birth (85.46 %+19.79 vs. 53.20 %+31.47; p=0.01). There were no differences in the other MMPS and in TIMPs between highand low-risk groups. There was an increase in vaginal MMP-9 during early pregnancy in those at high risk for preterm birth and in those who delivered preterm, regardless of prior pregnancy outcome. Vaginal MMP-9 may have potential as a marker of increased risk of preterm birth.

Association between Neonatal Outcomes and Admission Hypothermia among Very Preterm Infants in Chinese Neonatal Intensive Care Units: A Multicenter Cohort Study.

We aimed to investigate the relationship between admission hypothermia and outcomes among very preterm infants (VPIs) in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) in China. We also investigated the frequency of hypothermia in VPIs in China and the variation in hypothermia across Chinese Neonatal Network (CHNN) sites. This retrospective cohort study enrolled infants with 240/7 to 316/7 weeks of gestation with an admission body temperature ≤37.5 °C who were admitted to CHNN-participating NICUs between January 1 and December 31, 2019. A total of 5,913 VPIs were included in this study, of which 4,075 (68.9%) had hypothermia (<36.5 °C) at admission. The incidence of admission hypothermia varied widely across CHNN sites (9-100%). Lower gestational age (GA), lower birth weight, antenatal steroid administration, multiple births, small for GA, Apgar scores <7 at the 5th minute, and intensive resuscitation were significantly associated with admission hypothermia. Compared with infants with normothermia (36.5-37.5 °C), the adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for composite outcome among infants with admission hypothermia <35.5 °C increased to 1.47 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.15-1.88). The adjusted ORs for mortality among infants with admission hypothermia (36.0-36.4 and <35.5 °C) increased to 1.41 (95% CI, 1.09-1.83) and 1.93 (95% CI, 1.31-2.85), respectively. Admission hypothermia was associated with a higher likelihood of bronchopulmonary dysplasia, but was not associated with necrotizing enterocolitis ≥stage II, severe intraventricular hemorrhage, cystic periventricular leukomalacia, severe retinopathy of prematurity, or sepsis. Admission hypothermia remains a common problem for VPIs in a large cohort in China and is associated with adverse outcomes. Continuous quality improvement of admission hypothermia in the future may result in a substantial improvement in the outcomes of VPIs in China. · Admission hypothermia is common in VPIs.. · The incidence of admission hypothermia in VPIs remains high in China.. · Admission hypothermia is associated with adverse outcomes in VPIs..

Simulation and optimization of 30.17% high performance N-type TCO-free inverted perovskite solar cell using inorganic transport materials

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have gained much attention in recent years because of their improved energy conversion efficiency, simple fabrication process, low processing temperature, flexibility, light weight, and low cost of constituent materials when compared with their counterpart silicon based solar cells. Besides, stability and toxicity of PSCs and low power conversion efficiency have been an obstacle towards commercialization of PSCs which has attracted intense research attention. In this research paper, a Glass/Cu2O/CH3NH3SnI3/ZnO/Al inverted device structure which is made of cheap inorganic materials, n-type transparent conducting oxide (TCO)-free, stable, photoexcited toxic-free perovskite have been carefully designed, simulated and optimized using a one-dimensional solar cell capacitance simulator (SCAPS-1D) software. The effects of layers’ thickness, perovskite’s doping concentration and back contact electrodes have been investigated, and the optimized structure produced an open circuit voltage (Voc) of 1.0867 V, short circuit current density (JSC) of 33.4942 mA/cm2, fill factor (FF) of 82.88% and power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 30.17%. This paper presents a model that is first of its kind where the highest PCE performance and eco-friendly n-type TCO-free inverted CH3NH3SnI3 based perovskite solar cell is achieved using all-inorganic transport materials.

A Comparative Quality Control Study of Brand and Generic Amlodipine Tablets by In-Vitro Testing

The objective of this study was to conduct in-vitro quality control testing of brand versus generics of Amlodipine tablets. One brand and two generic Amlodipine tablets were used in the study. In the terms of weight variation, Brand, Generic A and Generic B have an above the mean weight limit variation of 2.15%, 2.23%, &amp; 1.43% respectively. The lower mean weight limit variations are 1.85%, 1.92% &amp; 1.23% respectively which are within the 7.5% standard limit of IP. Friability test shows that Brand, Generic A &amp; Generic B have an average friability of 0.5%, 0.480% ,0.3% mass loss, which are within 1%. mass lost limit of IP. Hardness test shows that Brand, Generic A &amp; Generic B have an average hardness of 0.9 kg/cm2, 2.3 kg/cm2 and 1 kg/cm2 respectively. The disintegration test shows that Brand, Generic A &amp; Generic B fall within 15-minutes time interval segment with disintegration time determined 20 sec, 3 min, 2.5 min respectively. In terms of drug assay brand, Generic A &amp; Generic B fall under IP limit of 90% to 110%. The Brand, Generic A &amp; Generic B have a drug dissolution percentage of 101%, 104%, 104% respectively within 30 minutes sampling time interval. The QC tests results for amlodipine tablets show that Brand, Generic A and Generic B confirm to the IP standards.

Die Casting of Lightweight Thin Fin Heat Sink Using Al-25%Si

The demand for lightweight and cost-effective heat sinks is increasing. A typical method for economically manufacturing complex-shape heat sinks is die casting. To reduce the weight of the die-cast heat sinks, thinning the fins and base is common practice. We experimented with casting heat sinks using Al-25%Si in a conventional die casting machine with the aim of economically producing thinner fins and bases. Compared with the aluminum alloy used in conventional die casting, Al-25%Si has superior fluidity, which is proven to be very useful for reducing the thickness of the fins and base. As a result, we successfully reduced the heat sink weight using Al-25%Si and a conventional die casting machine. To investigate the properties of the produced Al-25%Si thin fin heat sink, we compared the effects of fin thickness, fin height, number of fins, and base thickness on heat dissipation and weight reduction. Additionally, we compared the weight and heat dissipation properties with those of a commercial heat sink and found that our Al-25%Si heat sink maintains the same heat dissipation performance but for 35% lower weight.

The bail out option; using endocardial pacing and defibrillation leads epicardially

Abstract Introduction Although transvenous implantation of cardiac pacemakers and defibrillators is technically feasible and less invasive than surgical placement of epicardial leads, certain patients including pediatric patients and patients with complex congenital heart disease will require epicardial pacing and most of them will need pacing throughout their whole life. There are specific leads for epicardial pacing which were developed over time to the currently used bipolar steroid-eluting epicardial leads which may be rarely nationally unavailable. In addition, there are no available dedicated epicardial shock leads (1,2). There is no enough data on the techniques, feasibility, and efficacy of using endocardial leads, including shock leads for epicardial pacing/ defibrillation (3). Purpose We aim to describe our center’s experience in implanting endocardial leads for epicardial pacing or defibrillation and to assess its feasibility &amp; durability. Methods Due to periods of national unavailability of epicardial permanent pacing leads and worldwide unavailability of dedicated epicardial shock leads, a limited cohort of patients requiring urgent epicardial pacing/ ICDs were offered pacing through epicardially implanted endocardial leads. The lead screw is advanced into myocardium, then a purse-string suture is placed around and tied to the lead for fixation. Ventricular pacing lead is fixed to LV apex, while atrial lead is fixed to RA free wall. Shock coils are fixed to LV and RA free walls (Fig. 1). We retrospectively revised our records for these patients &amp; analyzed their clinical data, follow up programming parameters including sensing, pacing thresholds and impedances. Results In the last 8 years, surgeons implanted 9 endocardial leads epicardially. Two were pacing leads implanted for ventricular and atrial pacing in two different pediatric patients, and 7 were shock leads in patients with life threatening VTs despite medical treatment. The patients with ICDs were as follows: one was an adult patient with a Glenn shunt. The other 6 patients were pediatrics with low body weight; 4 of them had long QT syndrome and two had idiopathic VF. The mean follow-up periods were 38 months. Throughout the visits, the pacing thresholds, sensing functions, lead and shock impedances were stable in all patients (Table 1). Two of the patients with epicardial ICDs received appropriate shocks. None received inappropriate shocks. So far, only one patient required battery replacement. Conclusion In view of our findings, using endocardial leads as a bail out alternative to epicardial leads for pacing or defibrillation appears to be safe and effective. This finding is essentially important regarding the shock leads as there are no dedicated epicardial defibrillation leads. It should be noted that these results depend largely on the surgeon’s experience and on achieving acceptable pacing parameters and defibrillation thresholds intraoperatively.Table 1Figure 1

Factors associated with early postoperative mortality after total anomalous pulmonary venous connection repair: A retrospective cohort study.

Total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC) is a rare congenital defect where pulmonary venous plexus fails to connect with the left atrium (LA). Surgical repair is the primary treatment for TAPVC, but factors influencing outcomes are not fully understood. This study investigates the early outcomes of surgical repair for TAPVC and associated factors. A retrospective cohort analysis was conducted on TAPVC patients who underwent surgical repair between 2012 and 2022. Data were collected from medical records and supplemented with phone call validation. Demographic characteristics, surgical data, diagnostic tests, and outcomes were analyzed. Statistical analysis included chi-square, t-tests, and multivariate logistic regression using SPSS. A total of 88 patients underwent surgical repair for TAPVC, resulting in a mortality rate of 21.6%. Weight and bypass time were significantly associated with patient survival. Female patients had a higher likelihood of death. The anatomic type did not significantly influence mortality. Patients with pulmonary venous obstruction (PVO) experienced a higher mortality rate. Notably, ligation of the vertical vein in supracardiac and infracardiac types was associated with lower mortality. In conclusion, our study identifies several key factors contributing to higher mortality rates following TAPVC surgery, including low weight, female gender, prolonged bypass time, and preoperative vein obstruction. Highlighting the significance of surgical technique, particularly the sutureless approach, we advocate for its meticulous consideration to achieve improved outcomes. Furthermore, our findings indicate a potential decrease in mortality associated with vertical vein ligation, which may mitigate the risk of post-repair heart failure. We suggest further rigorous studies to gain comprehensive insights into TAPVC surgical interventions.

#848 Influence of nutrition and other factors on preterm newborns’ kidney development

Abstract Background and Aims According to WHO, in 2020, preterm newborns represented around 10% of all newborns in the world. Premature birth is deeply connected with the risk of developing a chronic kidney disease later in life. This is caused by defects in kidney development (primarily the lower number of nephrons) that are often difficult to identify in the complicated clinical picture of premature babies. Our study aims at providing knowledge on the relationship between preterm infant kidney development and morbidities, nutrition, and blood biomarkers. Method Creatinine was measured in 130 extremely preterm newborns (less than 28 weeks of gestation) enrolled in a randomized controlled trial (Mega Donna Mega) in two Swedish neonatal intensive care units. Creatinine was measured in whole blood or serum with the enzymatic method. Individuals with 4 or more serum creatinine measurements (n = 92) were shortlisted for eGFR calculation. eGFR was calculated with the Wilhelm-Bals weight-based equation due to the lack of length measurements. The patients were divided in 3 groups based upon their kidney development status. This was indirectly assessed using the exponential regression curve describing the eGFR trends as model and the doubling time as discriminating parameter. Data about morbidity, treatment, nutrition, blood lipidomics and proteomics were also collected during the MegaDonnaMega trial and has been used to investigate the differences between the three groups. A linear model adjusted for sex and gestational age was used to analyse lipidomics and proteomics data in relation to eGFR. The omics analysis used average data from the first month of age. Data analysis was performed in R, SPSS, SAS and GraphPad statistical programs. Results Subjects were divided in 3 groups from best to worst kidney function development. The parameter used, doubling time, is inversely correlated to eGFR and kidney development. Subjects in group 1 reached the normal at-term birth eGFR (40 ml/min/1.73 m2) at around 50 days of age, whereas the other two groups were delayed (66 days for group 2, 78 for group 3). Subjects in group 2 and 3 were characterized by longer stay at the NICU, lower weight and length in respect to infants in group 1. Subjects in groups 2 and 3 also showed more co-morbidities in respect to group 1. Regarding nutrition, subjects administered with maternal milk had shorter doubling times when compared to those administered with donor or mixed milk. Six serum fatty acids correlated with the eGFR trends: heptadecanoic (FA 17:0) showed a negative correlation, while palmitoleic (16:1n-7), gamma-linolenic (18:3n-6), erucic (22:1n-9) docosapentaenoic (22:5n-6) and tricosanoic (23:0) acid showed positive correlations. 45 serum proteins correlated with the eGFR trends, in particular, inflammatory and proliferative pathways showed an inverse correlation with eGFR. Conclusion We have detected differences in the eGFR trends of preterm newborns that could be traced back to nutrition and other factors. Moreover, we identified several serum fatty acids and proteins that correlated with eGFR and therefore kidney development. The data indicates that postnatal kidney development may be important to consider in the clinical care of preterm newborns.

Research and experimental verification of lightweight loader rims

The safety performance and structural stiffness of a rim, which is the main load-bearing structure of the loader during operation, influence the overall performance, stability, and braking capabilities of the machine. In the industry, researchers are currently pursuing lightweight and high-strength rims as a primary objective. A low weight not only enhances machinery fuel efficiency but also aligns with societal demands for sustainable development, energy conservation, and emission reduction. In this article, multiobjective optimization analysis on rims composed of three different materials is performed, and the relationships between various optimization parameters and target parameters are established using the results of response surface construction. Multiobjective genetic algorithms are utilized to derive various optimization plans, which are subsequently evaluated through static analysis, fatigue analysis, and weight loss analysis. The final optimization plan is determined based on the calculation results while considering production costs. Field tests are conducted on the optimized rims under various working conditions to verify the test results, evaluate the reliability of the finite element analysis results, and confirm the safety of the optimized rim.

Identification of Airline Turbulence Using WOA-CatBoost Algorithm in Airborne Quick Access Record (QAR) Data

Turbulence is a significant operational aviation safety hazard during all phases of flight. There is an urgent need for a method of airline turbulence identification in aviation systems to avoid turbulence hazards to aircraft during flight. Integrating flight data and machine learning significantly enhances the efficacy of turbulence identification. Nevertheless, present studies encounter issues including unstable model performance, challenges in data feature extraction, and parameter optimization. Hence, it is imperative to propose a superior approach to enhance the accuracy of turbulence identification along airline. The paper presents a combined swarm intelligence and machine learning model based on data mining for identifying airline turbulence. Based on the theory of swarm-intelligence-based optimization algorithm, the optimal parameters of Categorical Boosting (CatBoost) are obtained by introducing the whale optimization algorithm (WOA), and the corresponding WOA-CatBoost fusion model is established. Then, the Recursive Feature Elimination algorithm (RFE) is used to eliminate the data with lower feature weights, extract the effective features of the data, and the combination with the WOA brings robust optimization effects, whereby the accuracy of CatBoost increased by 11%. The WOA-CatBoost model can perform accurate turbulence identification from QAR data, comparable to that with established EDR approaches and outperforms traditional machine learning models. This discovery highlights the effectiveness of combining swarm intelligence and machine learning algorithms in turbulence monitoring systems to improve aviation safety.