Lower Diameter Research Articles

TRANSMISSION OF ANCIENT GREEK TECHNIQUES OF BUILDING ORDERS IN THE ARCHITECTURE OF KHARKIV IN THE INTERWAR PERIOD

The article presents the results of a study on the architecture of the interwar period in Kharkiv. The analysis focused on buildings of local historical significance, particularly those with facades based on the architectural order system. The selected objects included a residential complex with a store designed by architect O. Beketov and constructed between 1925 and 1936; the Metalist Stadium, designed in 1925 by architect Z. Permilovsky; the State Insurance Building, designed in 1927 by architects O. Molokin, H. Ikonnikov, and E. Lymar; and the ticket pavof the Metalist Stadium, designed in 1926 by Z. Permilovsky. The authors of the article analyzed the structure and proportions of the architectural orders used in these buildings, conducting a comparative analysis with ancient Greek architectural analogues to identify common features in the structure of the orders. As analogues, structures with similar proportions and architectural order systems were selected, including the Temple of Concordia in Agrigento (440 BCE), the Temple of Zeus at Olympia (5th century BCE), Temple F at Selinunte (circa 5th century BCE), and the Temple of Apollo at Delphi (circa 6th century BCE). The study employed comparative, structural, and compositional-proportional methods to analyze both the orders themselves and the elements of the selected buildings. Based on the analysis of the architectural orders of Kharkiv's buildings and the comparison with ancient Greek examples, it was established that during the interwar period, Kharkiv architects employed orders with proportions similar to those of ancient Greek temples from the Archaic period. Similarities were observed in the height of the orders, the columns, the ratios of the lower diameters of the columns, the heights of the entablatures, and the ratios of column height to entablature height. The analysis demonstrated a connection and transmission of techniques from ancient Greek craftsmen to the work of Kharkiv architects of the period. This area of research may be further explored, as the use of the order by Kharkiv architects in subsequent periods, such as after World War II, took on a different character and proportional relationships due to the different architectural challenges of that time. Keywords: order, column, entablature, entasis, module, proportions, colonnade.

Effects of Nitrogen Fertilizer Rate with Urease and Nitrification Inhibitors on Certain Morphological Traits and Quality of Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.)

In this study, we investigated the effects of the N fertilizer rates (commonly applied by farmers compared to rate based on soil analysis) with an appropriate N fertilizer rate associated with urease inhibitors (UIs), nitrification inhibitors (NIs) and their combinations (UINIs) on sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) growth, morphological traits, and quality. The treatments consisted of 2 UIs (N-(n-butyl) thiophosphoric triamide (NBPT) and garlic (Allium sativum L.)) and 3 NIs (dimethylpyrazole phosphate (DMPP), ground neem seed (Azadirachta indica A. Juss. var. siamensis Valeton) and praxelis (Praxelis clematidea (Griseb.) R.M. King & H. Rob)). The results showed that increasing the N fertilizer rate encouraged sugarcane growth by up to 4.5% and increased N content by 16.2% in the cane yield. Adding inhibitors produced positive responses in plant growth and yield, possibly due to prolonging N fertilizer in the soil and extending the supply of N to the plant. Compared to biological inhibitors, the synthetic inhibitors resulted in longer stalk lengths but lower stalk diameters. The inhibitor treatments significantly enhanced the aboveground biomass and N content in plants by up to 41.5 and 41.9%, respectively, compared to only fertilizer. The inhibitor treatments in commercial cane sugar (CCS) increased by up to 13.6%. However, decreasing the N fertilizer rate with addition of inhibitors assisted in keeping mineral N in the soil, which further enhanced N uptake and led to improved plant growth and yield. Added DMPP showed the potential to slow down N loss from soil, which enhanced rapid growth and resulted in higher aboveground biomass.

Design and Optimizing of Precision Seeder of Pinus sylvestris var. mongolica L. Bud-Seeds for Containerized Nursery Production

Mongolian pine holds immense ecological and economic values as a vital biobased material. Its wood fiber, rosin and turpentine are important raw materials suitable for multiple industrial applications, it also exhibited soil and water conservation capabilities. To improve its seeding efficiency, this study designed a precision seeding machine for Mongolian pine (Pinus sylvestris var. mongolica L.) bud-seeds, and optimized the technical seeding parameters, which utilized a combined vibration-air blowing fluidization device to overcome seed flowability limitations and facilitate accurate seed selection. A particle model was established based on the seeds’ physical characteristics, and EDEM software was utilized to simulate the spatial distribution of seed particles under various seeding parameters through seeding experiments. The optimal air pressure for the combined seed supply was approximately 0.24 kPa, with a frequency of 20 Hz and an amplitude of 5 mm, to obtain an optimal spatial distribution of the seed particles. The most effective seeding area for seed adhesion was determined to be 5–15 mm from the bottom of the seeding plate. When the seed suction negative pressure is set to 6.7 kPa, with an upper hole diameter of 0.9 mm, a lower hole diameter of 3 mm, and a hole depth of 1.5 mm, the seedling emergence rate reached 89.06%, and the fastest emergence time was 2 days. One month after sowing, the seedlings exhibited a height growth rate of 16.1%, and a ground diameter growth rate of 20.9%. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of the precision seeding machine and optimized parameters in achieving efficient and accurate sowing of Mongolian pine bud-seeds. This work provides basic technical and data support for advancing the development and sustainable utilization of Mongolian pine as a vital biobased material resource.

Insights Into Pool Boiling Heat Transfer on Minichannel Surfaces Through Point and Field Measurements

Abstract In this study, saturated pool boiling experiments were conducted on copper minichannel and flat surfaces at atmospheric pressure using water as the working fluid. The heat transfer performance was assessed through point measurements with a heater block, cartridge heaters, and thermocouples, as well as field measurements using a thin-foil heater and infrared thermography. Two copper minichannel surfaces with square cross sections of 1 mm (minichannel-1) and 2 mm (minichannel-2) side lengths were tested and compared to a flat surface. Minichannel-1 and minichannel-2 enhanced the critical heat flux (CHF) by 17% and 45%, respectively, and improved the heat transfer coefficient by 24–40% and 51–75%, respectively, compared to the flat surface. Minichannel-2 exhibited the lowest and most uniform boiling surface temperature, making it the best performer among the three. There was no significant change in departure frequency among the surfaces, and no significant change in departure diameter for the flat surface and minichannel-1. However, minichannel-2 had lower departure diameters due to its deeper channels, which prevented bubble coalescence and maintained low departure diameters. Additionally, minichannel-2 delayed vapor film formation by breaking it with its deeper fins, thereby improving CHF and slightly enhancing bubble dynamics. The enhancement in boiling heat transfer is primarily attributed to the increased surface area provided by the minichannels, with a minor contribution from improved bubble dynamics. However, the dominant factor in enhancing pool boiling heat transfer on minichannel surfaces is the increase in surface area.

The Contact Pressure Analysis of Different Load and Diameter Ratio on Hemispherical Contact: Biomechanical Perspectives

Contact mechanics is pivotal in understanding interactions between surfaces, particularly in biological contexts and the human body. When surfaces come into contact, the roughness represented by microscopic peaks called asperities becomes crucial. In this study, spherical contact modeling is explored, which is an extensively researched area in both engineering and biomechanics. By examining hemispherical contact systems, valuable insights into their biomechanical response are gained. Specifically, the investigation focuses on how geometric variations and applied loads impact contact pressure using finite element analysis. The model comprises two hemispheres with varying diameter ratios. The results show higher diameter ratios increase maximum contact pressure and expand the pressure contour distribution. While M1 shows similar pressure distribution in both hemispheres under additional load, M2 and M3 exhibit a broader distribution in the bottom hemisphere compared to the upper. Consequently, lower diameter ratios emerge as safer design choices, whereas higher ratios require careful load management to prevent failure.

Mistletoes have higher hydraulic safety but lower efficiency in xylem traits than their hosts.

Both mistletoes and their hosts are challenged by increasing drought, highlighting the necessity of understanding their comparative hydraulic properties. The high transpiration of mistletoes requires efficient water transport, while high xylem tensions demand strong embolism resistance, representing a hydraulic paradox. This study, conducted across four environments with different aridity indices in Yunnan, China, examined the xylem traits of 119 mistletoe-host species pairs. Mistletoes showed lower water use efficiency, indicating a more aggressive water use. They also showed lower hydraulic efficiency (lower vessel diameter and theoretical hydraulic conductivity) but higher safety (lower vulnerability index and higher conduit wall reinforcement, vessel grouping index, and wood density) compared with their hosts, supporting the trade-off between efficiency and safety. Environmental variation across sites significantly affected xylem trait comparisons between mistletoes and hosts. Additionally, the xylem traits of mistletoes were strongly influenced by host water supply efficiency. The overall xylem trait relationships in mistletoes and hosts were different. These findings stress the impact of host and site on the hydraulic traits of mistletoes, and suggest that mistletoes may achieve high transpiration by maintaining high stomatal conductance under low water potentials. This study illuminates the distinctive adaptation strategies of mistletoes due to their parasitic lifestyle.

Abstract 4121530: Comparison of Drug-Coated Balloon Versus Drug-Eluting Stents in Acute Myocardial Infarction Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is the preferred revascularization strategy for acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Drug-eluting stents (DES) are linked to higher risks of stent restenosis and stent thrombosis when implanted for AMI. Drug-coated balloons (DCB) provide a high concentration of anti-proliferative drugs over the target lesion without using the polymeric stent structures. The current literature comparing DCB to DES for AMI PCI is limited. Methods: A systematic literature search was performed on the major electronic databases for studies comparing DCB to DES for AMI PCI. Mean difference (MD) and odds ratio (OR) with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals were pooled using a random-effects model, and a p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 8 studies with 1401 AMI patients were included (545: DCB and 856: DES). The pooled analysis demonstrated that DCB was associated with significantly lower mean lumen diameter on follow-up [MD: -0.26; 95% CI: -0.47, -0.05; p=0.02] compared to DES. However, there was no statistically significant difference in mean in-stent late lumen loss [MD: 0.07; 95% CI: -0.03, 0.18], cardiovascular mortality [OR: 0.90; 95% CI: 0.35, 2.34], all-cause mortality [OR: 0.80; 95% CI: 0.25, 2.63], myocardial infarction [OR: 0.94; 95% CI: 0.36, 2.45], major adverse cardiovascular events [OR: 0.97; 95% CI: 0.47, 2.00], target lesion revascularization [OR: 1.59; 95% CI: 0.52, 4.87], and stent thrombosis [OR: 0.48; 95% CI: 0.05, 4.94]. Conclusion: In patients with AMI, PCI using DCB leads to a significant reduction in the minimum lumen diameter on follow-up compared to DES. No statistically significant difference was noted in mean in-stent late lumen loss, cardiovascular mortality, all-cause mortality, myocardial infarction, major adverse cardiovascular events, target vessel revascularization, and stent thrombosis. Further trials are warranted to confirm these findings.

Clinical Significance of Optical Coherence Tomography-Guided Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for In-Stent Restenosis Within Drug-Eluting Stents: Impact on Patient Outcomes.

The evidence for optical coherence tomography (OCT)-guided percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in improving the prognosis of individuals with in-stent restenosis (ISR) is lacking. This retrospective study enrolled 588 consecutive individuals with drug-eluting stent ISR undergoing PCI from March 2010 to March 2022. Two hundred seven (35.2%) underwent OCT guidance, and 381 (64.8%) underwent angiography guidance. Clinical outcomes were analyzed using survival curves. The primary clinical endpoint was 2-year major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs), a composite of all-cause death, myocardial infarction, and target-vessel revascularization. Compared with angiography guidance, OCT guidance demonstrated a higher frequency of drug-coated balloon use and adjunctive therapeutic modalities, including predilation, postdilation, nonslip element balloons, and noncompliant balloons (P<0.05). Following PCI, the OCT-guided group achieved a significantly larger minimum lumen diameter (2.36 versus 2.15 mm, P<0.001) and a lower percentage diameter stenosis (17% versus 20%, P<0.001) than the angiography-guided group. Survival analysis revealed significantly lower 2-year MACEs in the OCT-guided group compared with the angiography-guided group (7% versus 15%, P=0.007), validated in the propensity matching analysis (7% versus 15%, P=0.001). Multiple sensitivity analyses showed that OCT-guided PCI treatment was an independent protective factor for 2-year MACEs in individuals with drug-eluting stent ISR. Compared with angiography guidance, OCT guidance is associated with a lower 2-year MACE risk among individuals with drug-eluting stent ISR. Therefore, OCT should be actively considered for guiding PCI treatment in individuals with drug-eluting stent ISR. Url: clinicaltrials.gov. Identifier: NCT03809754.

Effects of structural parameters of active pre-chamber on the combustion process of methanol/gasoline TJI rotary engine

The application of Turbulent Jet Ignition (TJI) combustion mode in spark ignition engine can improve combustion efficiency and output power. This paper innovatively proposes the application of active pre-chamber (APC) in rotary engine (RE) to realize this mode. And blending a certain percentage of methanol in gasoline to achieve carbon reduction. A three-dimensional computational model of the APC-RE was developed, and the effects of three APC structural parameters including throat section diameter, throat section length and orifice diameter on the component flow and combustion characteristics were investigated. The results showed that the APC-RE exhibited higher sensitivity to the diameter of the throat section than the length variation under the fixed active fuel injection strategy. The low length or small diameter of the throat section causes insufficient energy in the APC jet, and too high values cause unstable combustion. The optimal APC volume is achieved at a throat length of 8 mm and a diameter of 6 mm, with the highest Indicated mean effective pressure (IMEP) and Indicated thermal efficiency (ITE). Next, The APC volume was fixed and the effect of jet orifice size on RE performance was discussed and the optimal size was determined 1.25 mm, which can further optimize the jet velocity and can continue to increase IMEP and ITE by 1.24 % and 1.46 % respectively.

Development Of Mutant From Lemon Leaves By Using Gamma Radiation And Leaf Cut Method Under Glass House And Field Condition

An experiment was conducted at the Horticulture division of Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture (BINA), Mymensingh during the period from March 2024 to September 2024 to develop mutants from lemon leaves by using gamma radiation and leaf cut method under glasshouse and field conditions to find out the appropriate combination of irradiation dose and suitable environment on success, survivability, and growth of lemon. The experiment was consisted of two factors such as Environmental condition: (i) glass house and field condition and (ii) Nine gamma radiation levels (0 GY, 60 GY,80Gy,100Gy, 120 GY,140 GY,160 GY,180 GY and 200 GY).Mature leaves were collected from BINA Lebu-1 mother plants.Collected leaves were exposed by different doses of gamma radiation separately with 60 GY, 80GY, 100 GY, 120 GY, 140 GY, 160 GY,180 GY, 200 GY, and also a control at BINA from 60Co gamma radiation sources. The experiment was laid out in RCBD with three replications. Total 18 treatment combinations of the environmental condition and radiation levels. Irradiated leaves of lemon were planted in the unit plots on 8 March 2023 in the afternoon with spacing of 15cmx15cm (row to row and leaf to leaf distance). Different environmental condition showed significantly influenced on almost all the mentioned parameters studied concerned with growth and growth contributing characteristics. The highest percentage of success and survivability was found in glass house condition and the lowest % success and %survivability was found in field condition.The glasshouse condition producedhigher number of roots(4.77), longer root length(9.24cm), diameter of shoot( 4.95mm), higher number of leaves per plant(50.66) and field condition produced lower number of roots(3.55), smallest longer root length(7.14cm), lower diameter of shoot(2.26mm), lower number of leaves(43.00) per plant compared to the field condition. The application of 120GY irradiation level produced the highest number of roots (8.50), longest root length (16.1cm),the highest diameter of shoot (5.65mm), andthe highest number of leaves per plant (70.00) as compared to control. The combined effect of environmental condition and gamma radiations was statistically significant on the success, survivability and growth.120GY irradiation level in glasshouse condition produced the maximum roots (7.00), the longest root length (17.5.cm), the largest diameter of shoot (4.80mm), highest canopy volume (0.12m3 ) and the maximum leaves per plant (73.00). Similarly, the lowest values were in respect of almost all the mentioned parameters were found at field condition with control treatment. Therefore, the overall results indicate that glasshouse condition with 120 GY might be an efficient and eligible practice for developing mutant from leaves

Sinus rhythm maintenance and the changes of echocardiographic parameters in patients with late persistent atrial fibrillation at 6 months after direct current cardioversion

Abstract Background Late persistent non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF), with a duration of its episode ≥90 days and up to 12 months, is considered a distinct persistent AF entity, which might possess substantial differences as compared to its early persistent pattern (up to 3 months) in terms of myocardial remodeling and its reversibility after cardioversion. Purpose To study the changes of echocardiographic parameters in patients with non-valvular late persistent AF with respect to sinus rhythm (SR) maintenance at 6 months after successful direct current cardioversion (DCCV). Methods The cohort single-center study enrolled 59 late persistent AF patients, who underwent a successful elective DCCV. At 6-months follow-up, patients were subdivided into the groups regarding SR maintenance: 32 (54 %%) patients with a maintained SR (G1), and 27 (46 %) patients with a failure to maintain SR (G2). The parameters of myocardial remodeling and function were evaluated by transthoracic (TTE) and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) baseline (by TTE and TEE) and at 6-months follow-up (by TTE). Results TTE data from G1 patients, in contrast to G2, suggested better baseline status of left heart chambers, particularly the lower diameter of left atrium (LA), left ventricular (LV) end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes and higher LV systolic function (by LV ejection fraction [EF]). According to the TEE data, G2 (vs. G1) was characterized by more prevalent cases of LA spontaneous (echo) contrast (41 % vs. 15 %, respectively; p=0,042) and LA appendage flow velocity ≤40 cm/s (82 % vs. 53 %, respectively; p=0,022). At 6-months follow-up TTE, G1 patients, as opposed to G2, demonstrated a better profile of echocardiographic parameters, namely a lower LA diameter, LA and right atrium (RA) volumes, along with less advanced LV remodeling and higher LV EF. TTE data from G1 at 6-months follow-up after DCCV suggested the reverse remodeling of both atria, namely the decrease of LA diameter, LA volume and its index (Fig. 1), as well as RA volume and its index. Moreover, G2 demonstrated a decline in LV systolic function, in particular the rise of LV end-systolic volume and decrease of LV EF (Fig. 2), as compared to G1. Furthermore, at 6-months follow-up, G2 patients presented with more advanced severity of PH and tricuspid regurgitation, in comparison with G1. Conclusions Late persistent AF patients with a SR maintenance at 6-months follow-up after successful DCCV presented a better baseline profile of myocardial remodeling and systolic function. The SR maintenance at 6-months follow-up after DCCV was associated with the reverse remodeling of left heart chambers (LA and LV) and RA. On the contrary, a failure to maintain SR in late persistent AF patients was associated with a deterioration in LV systolic function, and more advanced PH and tricuspid regurgitation.

Sex differences related changes in cardiac structure and function after ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction

Abstract Background Sex disparities in presentation, treatment, and outcomes after ST-segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) are well recognized. However, little is known about sex related changes in cardiac structure and function following a STEMI in this contemporary era of early PCI. Purpose To compare sex differences in change of echocardiographic parameters of structure and function following a first-time STEMI. Methods This echocardiographic study involved 380 non-diabetic first-time STEMI patients. Structural and functional parameters were evaluated during initial hospitalization (median 1 day after presentation) and at 4-months. Adverse remodelling was defined as a 20% increase in left ventricular end-diastolic volume (LVEDV) at 4 months compared to the hospitalisation echo. Functional parameters included left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and wall motion score index (WMSI). According to current guidelines, eccentric hypertrophy was defined as left ventricular mass index (LVMI) &amp;gt;95 g/m2 for women and &amp;gt;115 g/m2 for men with a relative wall thickness (RWT) ≤0.42; concentric hypertrophy was defined as LVMI &amp;gt;95 g/m2 for women and &amp;gt;115 g/m2 for men with RWT &amp;gt;0.42. The different patterns in geometry were assessed at 4-months. Results Among 380 patients, comprising 285 males and 95 females, females had a higher prevalence of hypertension (42% vs. 25.6%, p=0.004), lower hemoglobin levels (8.40 mmol/l vs. 9.10, p&amp;lt;0.001), and higher plasma NT-proBNP concentrations upon admission (132 ng/L vs 67, p&amp;lt;0.001) and after 24 hours (1322 ng/l vs 784, p&amp;lt;0.001). During the initial echocardiogram conducted upon hospitalization, as well as during the echocardiogram at 4 months, women had significantly lower LV diameters, LV volumes, LV mass, LAVI and wall thickness compared to man. However, during both evaluations women showed higher E/e’ ratio’s and LVEF. The change in echocardiographic variables between both timepoints did not differ significantly between sexes. Furthermore, no significant difference in LV geometry patterns (eccentric or concentric) were observed between sexes and adverse LV remodelling was similar between both groups at approximately 22-23% (p=0.991). Conclusions Although differences exist between sexes in patient characteristics and individual echocardiographic parameters, no disparity is observed in geometry patterns, adverse LV remodelling, or the change in echocardiographic parameters after STEMI.

Effects of empagliflozin on myocardial transcriptome in rats with aortic stenosis-induced heart failure

Abstract Introduction Aortic stenosis (AS) represents one of the most prevalent valvular heart diseases and an important cause of heart failure. Currently, no medical therapies influence the natural history of aortic stenosis. Although sodium glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) have improved cardiovascular outcomes in heart failure patients with both reduced and preserved ejection fraction, their action mechanisms are not clear. Transcriptome analysis present great potential to identify biomarkers of disease and to gain insight into disease pathophysiology. In this study, we analyzed myocardial mRNA profile in aortic stenosis rats treated with empagliflozin. Methods Eighteen weeks after supra-aortic banding surgery, male Wistar rats were divided into 3 groups: Sham (n=15); aortic stenosis (AS, n=27); AS+empagliflozin (AS-EMP, n=27). Empagliflozin (10 mg/kg/day) was added to rat chow for 8 weeks. Transcriptome of left ventricle (LV) myocardium was studied by RNA-sequencing (sample size: 5 per group). Differential gene expression was analyzed in R environment using the DESeq2 package. Genes were considered differentially expressed (DEG) when they exhibited a log2 fold change (log2FC) higher than 1 (upregulated) or lower than -1 (downregulated), coupled with an adjusted p-value below 0.05. Functional enrichment analysis using gene ontology was performed by the online tool Enrich. Statistical analysis: ANOVA and Tukey. Results AS-EMP had lower LV diastolic diameter (Sham 8.39±0.57; AS 9.80±0.53*; AS-EMP 9.08±0.87# mm; p&amp;lt;0.05: * vs Sham; # vs AS), left atrium diameter (Sham 5.68±0.40; AS 9.67±1.00*; AS-EMP 8.97±1.36*# mm; p&amp;lt;0.05: * vs Sham; # vs AS), and LV mass (Sham 0.85±0.11; AS 2.19±0.27*; AS-EMP 1.76±0.34*# g; p&amp;lt;0.05: * vs Sham; # vs AS) than AS. A total of 1246 differentially expressed genes were identified, comprising 663 upregulated genes (70 genes in AS vs SHAM; 593 in AS-EMP vs AS) and 583 downregulated genes (35 genes in AS vs SHAM; 548 in AS-EMP vs AS). Most of the differentially expressed genes were enriched in processes such as extracellular matrix and structure organization, signal transduction regulation, and substrate-dependent cell migration (AS vs SHAM), as well as myocardial contraction, negative regulation of programmed cell death, and mitochondrial membrane organization (AS-EMP vs AS). The main upregulated genes were Loxl1, Mfap4, Postn, Col8a1, Pi16, and Nppa in AS vs SHAM; and Mxra8, Zfta, Pnisr, Thoc1, and Ralbp1 in AS-EMP vs AS comparison. The main downregulated genes were Mxra8, Ralbp1, and Tubgcp6 in AS vs SHAM; and Itgb5, Ltbp2, Tmem109, Plec, and Rorc in AS-EMP vs AS comparison. Conclusion We identified myocardial genes and biological processes that are potentially involved in aortic stenosis-induced heart failure. Empagliflozin attenuates cardiac remodeling and modulates myocardial genes involved with myocyte contraction, apoptosis, and mitochondrial organization in aortic stenosis rats.

Associated factors and percentage of cardiac recovery among patients using LVAD: a meta-analysis of 31 studies

Abstract Introduction Patients with advanced heart failure use left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) to improve their outcomes and enhance the reverse remodeling of the heart. There has been no previous meta-analysis on the percentage of cardiac recovery after LVAD. This study aims to find the pooled percentage of cardiac recovery after LVAD. Methods A systematic search was done in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane from inception to December 2023. We used the relevant keywords to include studies that reported the percentage of people who achieved cardiac recovery after LVAD. The percentage of participants using LVAD and achieving cardiac recovery was extracted from the studies. RevMan 5.4 was used for meta-analysis. Results Thirty-two studies totaling 39215 patients were included. Different types of LVAD were used among participants. Across studies, different definitions for cardiac recovery were used, and the most used one is device explant following cardiac recovery and achieving left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≥ 40% after using LVAD. The pooled percentage of people who achieved cardiac recovery was 5.06%, 95% CI [4.17, 5.95], and the result was heterogeneous (I2 = 94%, p &amp;lt; 0.00001). Shorter duration of heart failure, female gender, younger age, presence of Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) and low left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD) were the most common mentioned factors associated with cardiac recovery. Conclusion Low cardiac recovery was found in patients using LVAD, and several factors were associated with cardiac recovery. Further action could be taken to improve the recovery among this population.

Differential postnatal cardiovascular course of donor-recipient twins and associated pathophysiology-a cohort study.

Fetal echocardiography in twin to twin transfusion pregnancies treated with photocoagulation noted impaired cardiac function. Systematic information about cardiac structure or function and arterial distensibility after birth is not available. This study evaluated cardiovascular function and arterial dynamic properties in survivors of twin to twin transfusion syndrome. Eleven pairs of donor-recipient twins were compared with each other, and with 20 singletons of comparable gestational age. The twin cohort was born at 31.5±2 weeks gestational age; birthweights of donors-recipients were comparable (donors: 1358±421g vs recipients: 1617±460g, P=0.2). Significant inter-twin differences were noted for cardiac function parameters. Recipients had greater septal thickness (donors: 2.3±0.15 vs recipients: 2.7±0.36mm, P=0.01) and globularity (lower sphericity index [donors: 1.76±0.1 vs recipients: 1.62±0.12, P=0.009]). They also had lower cardiac function (tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion [donors: 4.6±0.5 vs recipients: 4.1±0.4mm, P=0.02) and right ventricular fractional area change [donors: 30±1 vs recipients: 27.7±1.3%, P=0.0001]). Comparing with singletons, differences were statistically more significant for recipients. Arterial distensibility however, was more affected in donors (higher arterial wall stiffness index [donors: 2.5±0.2 vs recipients: 2.2±0.2, P=0.008] and lower pulsatile diameter [donors: 51±5 vs recipients: 63±10 µm, P<0.0001). Comparing with singletons, the differences were statistically more significant for donors. Evaluation in the neonatal period noted that cardiac function and arterial distensibility is affected in TTTS twins. These cohorts will benefit from close postnatal follow up for resolution of cardiac and arterial impairments.

Psychological stress impact neurotrophic factor levels in patients with androgenetic alopecia and correlated with disease progression.

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a common form of hair loss that can be influenced by psychological factors. To investigate the impact of mental stress on neurotrophic factors in patients with AGA and correlate the findings with the progression of AGA. A total of 120 patients with AGA were analyzed in this study, which were divided into a non-stress group (n = 30) and a stress group (n = 90) on the basis of the presence or absence of psychological stress confirmed by Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 scale. The baseline demographic characteristics, serum cortisol levels, hair growth parameters, neurotrophic factors, and AGA progression scores between the non-stress and stress groups were compared. Correlation analyses were conducted to assess the relationships among stress, neurotrophic factors, hair loss progression, and AGA progression. This study revealed significantly higher cortisol levels throughout the day in the stress group than in the non-stress group. The stress group exhibited lower levels of nerve growth factor, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor and higher expression levels of neurotrophin (NT)-3 and NT-4 than the non-stress group. Hair parameters indicated lower hair diameter, decreased hair density, and more severe AGA grading in the stress group, whereas follicle count and terminal/vellus hair ratio showed no significant differences between the two groups. After 1 year of treatment with 5% minoxidil, efficacy was observed to be lower but AGA progression was notably more pronounced in the stress group than in the non-stress group. Disease progression was positively correlated with high stress and NT-4 levels. This study provides compelling evidence of the influence of mental stress on neurotrophic factors and its correlation with the progression of AGA. The findings underscore the need for a comprehensive approach to the management of AGA that considers the physiological and psychosocial aspects. Further research is warranted to validate the findings and explore targeted therapeutic interventions for individuals with stress-related AGA.

Heat recovery from hot water drainage: CFD simulation, energy efficiency and exergoeconomic analysis of concentric tube heat exchangers

This study investigates the performance and economic viability of a heat recovery concentric tube heat exchanger (HR-CTHE) integrated with water heating systems using either electricity or natural gas. The system recovers heat from hot water drainage to preheat cold water, thereby enhancing energy efficiency. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations are conducted, examining cold and hot water drain Reynolds numbers ranging from 1,000 to 20,000, hot water drain inlet temperatures from 303 K to 333 K, diameter ratios from 1.25 to 3, and inner diameters from 0.01 m to 0.05 m. Results indicate that at an inlet temperature of 333 K and a hot water Reynolds number of 20,000, the heat recovery rate reaches approximately 20,000 W, and the preheated cold water temperature can achieve 316 K. Exergetic efficiency is highest at 0.4392 for a diameter ratio of 1.25 and an inner diameter of 0.01 m. Economic evaluations using Net Present Value (NPV) and discounted payback period indicate that coupling HR-CTHE with electric heaters is more attractive, providing higher savings and quicker returns on investment compared to natural gas heaters. For instance, integrating HR-CTHE with electric water heaters yields a discounted payback period as short as 0.2 years. In contrast, for natural gas heaters, the payback period is around 2.2 years under similar conditions. The exergoeconomic analysis further demonstrates that natural gas heaters achieve cost-effectiveness only under high hot water Reynolds numbers and inlet temperatures, while electric heaters show significant benefits at moderate to high Reh. The study concludes with recommendations for optimizing HR-CTHE performance and cost-effectiveness, emphasizing higher hot water inlet temperatures, lower diameter ratios, and appropriate Reynolds numbers for both fluids.

Impact of botulinum toxin type A on tooth movement and bone remodeling in male Wistar rats

ObjectiveWe evaluated whether the use of botulinum neurotoxin type A (BTX-A) in masticatory muscles influences tooth movement and bone remodeling. DesignSeventy-seven male Wistar rats were allocated to the groups: S - Saline (n=20); SM - Saline with movement (n=20); BT - Botulinum toxin (n=18); BTM - Botulinum toxin with movement (n=19). On day 1, 0.02 mL of sterile 0.9 % saline was administered to groups S and SM and BTX-A (1 U in 0.02 mL of saline) to groups BT and BTM, in the masseter and temporal muscles laterally. On day 30, a nickel titanium spring was installed to move the first maxillary molar and euthanasia was performed on days 32 and 51. Tooth displacement, maxillary and mandibular bone volumes, collagen neoformation, bone and root resorptions, and masseter morphometry were assessed. Statistical analysis was conducted (p < 0.05). ResultsA higher percentage of type I collagen was observed in the BT than in the S group on day 51 and lower mass, length, and diameter of the masseter fibers in BT and BTM (p < 0.05). Tooth displacement, bone volume, bone and root resorptions, hyaline area, and masseter height showed no difference among groups with and without BTX-A, regardless of tooth movement (p > 0.05). ConclusionsBTX-A did not interfere with tooth displacement, bone volume, and dental and periodontal tissues related to tooth movement in rats; it increased mature collagen in animals without tooth movement; and it caused a decrease in the mass, length, and diameter of the masseter fibers.

Comparison of elastic properties of periodic and aperiodic porous structures produced by additive methods

The aim of this work was to design, print, and examine elastic properties of porous structures with various parameters and beam distributions. These structures, generated using an algorithm, featured three types of lattices: octet, cubic, and Voronoi diagram-based, with different porosities (40 %, 60 %, 80 %) and beam sizes (0.45 mm, 0.66 mm). They were printed using Direct Light Processing and examined using X-ray computed microtomography. Compression tests were conducted to determine the Young’s modulus. The results were compared with computer simulations performed using Abaqus. The tools used, such as 3D printing and X-ray computed microtomography, were described, and the results and conclusions of the tests were presented. As a result, comparable outcomes were obtained for structures with higher beam diameter, while significantly different results were observed for structures with lower beam diameter.

Sex-Specific Association Patterns of Bone Microstructure and Lower Leg Arterial Calcification

In conversations about bone loss and the importance of calcium homeostasis, patients frequently inquire about the association with arterial calcifications. Although a relationship between bone loss and the occurrence of vascular calcifications is suspected, it is not yet fully investigated and understood. This study aims to analyze associations between bone mineralization, structure, and vascular calcification at the lower leg in patients with low bone mineral density in HR-pQCT. We retrospectively analyzed 774 high-resolution quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) scans of the distal tibia for the presence of vascular calcifications. After sex-specific propensity score matching for age and BMI to account for confounders, 132 patients remained for quantification of bone microstructure, bone density, lower leg arterial calcification (LLAC), and laboratory parameters of bone turnover. The interactions between bone parameters and vascular calcification were quantified by regression analyses. The calcium metabolism was not different between individuals with and without LLAC, nor oral calcium supplementation. Female patients with LLAC had a higher cortical perimeter (p = 0.016) compared to female patients without LLAC, whereas male patients with LLAC had lower cortical pore diameter than male patients without LLAC (p = 0.027). The appearance of LLAC was sex specifically associated with bone parameters. In female patients, only plaque density was associated with HR-pQCT bone parameters and age, whereas in male patients, plaque volume was associated with HR-pQCT parameters of the distal tibia. Female patients exhibit an increasing plaque density depended on age and trabecular thinning. Decreasing cortical pore diameter and trabecular number along with increasing bone mineralization are linked to increasing plaque volume in male patients.