Maximum Volume Research Articles

Impact of adult-onset multiple sclerosis on MRI-based intracranial volume: A study in clinically discordant monozygotic twins

ObjectiveIntracranial volume (ICV) represents the maximal brain volume for an individual, attained prior to late adolescence and remaining constant throughout life after. Thus, ICV serves as a surrogate marker for brain growth integrity. To assess the potential impact of adult-onset multiple sclerosis (MS) and its preceding prodromal subclinical changes on ICV in a large cohort of monozygotic twins clinically discordant for MS. MethodsFSL software was used to derive ICV estimates from 3D-T1-weighted-3 T-MRI images by using an atlas scaling factor method. ICV were compared between clinically affected and healthy co-twins. All twins were compared to a large healthy reference cohort using standardized ICV z-scores. Mixed models assessed the impact of age at MS diagnosis on ICV. Results54 twin-pairs (108 individuals/80female/42.45 ± 11.98 years), 731 individuals (375 non-twins, 109/69 monozygotic/dizygotic twin-pairs; 398female/29.18 ± 0.13 years) and 35 healthy local individuals (20male/31.34 ± 1.53 years). In 45/54 (83 %) twin-pairs, both clinically affected and healthy co-twins showed negative ICV z-scores, i.e., ICVs lower than the average of the healthy reference cohort (M = -1.53 ± 0.11, P<10−5). Younger age at MS diagnosis was strongly associated with lower ICVs (t = 3.76, P = 0.0003). Stratification of twin-pairs by age at MS diagnosis of the affected co-twin (≤30 versus > 30 years) yielded lower ICVs in those twin pairs with younger age at diagnosis (P = 0.01). Comparison within individual twin-pairs identified lower ICVs in the MS-affected co-twins with younger age at diagnosis compared to their corresponding healthy co-twins (P = 0.003). ConclusionWe offer for the first-time evidence for strong associations between adult-onset MS and lower ICV, which is more pronounced with younger age at diagnosis. This suggests pre-clinical alterations in early neurodevelopment associated with susceptibility to MS both in individuals with and without clinical manifestation of the disease.

The biportal transorbital approach: quantitative comparison of the anterior subfrontal craniotomy, bilateral transorbital endoscopic, and microscopic approaches.

The aim of this study was to assess the surgical use and applicability of a biportal bitransorbital approach. Single-portal transorbital and combined transorbital transnasal approaches have been used in clinical practice, but no study has assessed the surgical use and applicability of a biportal bitransorbital approach. Ten cadaver specimens underwent midline anterior subfrontal (ASub), bilateral transorbital microsurgery (bTMS), and bilateral transorbital neuroendoscopic surgery (bTONES) approaches. Morphometric analyses included the length of the bilateral cranial nerves I and II, the optic tract, and A1; the area of exposure of the anterior cranial fossa floor; craniocaudal and mediolateral angles of attack (AOAs); and volume of surgical freedom (VSF; maximal available working volume for a specific surgical corridor and surgical target structure normalized to a height of 10 mm) of the bilateral paraclinoid internal carotid arteries (ICAs), bilateral terminal ICAs, and anterior communicating artery (ACoA). Analyses were conducted to determine whether the biportal approach was associated with greater instrument freedom. The bTMS and bTONES approaches provided limited access to the bilateral A1 segments and the ACoA, which were inaccessible in 30% (bTMS) and 60% (bTONES) of exposures. The average total frontal lobe area of exposure (AOE) was 1648.4 mm2 (range 1516.6-1958.8 mm2) for ASub, 1658.9 mm2 (1274.6-1988.2 mm2) for bTMS, and 1914.9 mm2 (1834.2-2014.2 mm2) for bTONES exposures, with no statistically significant superiority between any of the 3 approaches (p = 0.28). The bTMS and bTONES approaches were significantly associated with decreases of 8.7 mm3 normalized volume (p = 0.005) and 14.3 mm3 normalized volume (p < 0.001) for VSF of the right paraclinoid ICA compared with the ASub approach. No statistically significant difference in surgical freedom was noted between all 3 approaches when targeting the bilateral terminal ICA. The bTONES approach was significantly associated with a decrease of 105% in the (log) VSF of the ACoA compared with the ASub (p = 0.009). Although the biportal approach is intended to improve maneuverability within these minimally invasive approaches, these results illustrate the pertinent issue of surgical corridor crowding and the importance of surgical trajectory planning. A biportal transorbital approach provides improved visualization but does not improve surgical freedom. Furthermore, although it affords impressive anterior cranial fossa AOE, it is unsuitable for addressing midline lesions because the preserved orbital rim restricts lateral movement. Further comparative studies will elucidate whether a combined transorbital transnasal route is preferable to minimize skull base destruction and maximize instrument access.

Influences of Compression Ratio on Performance of Single Cylinder Otto Engine Using E50 Fuel

Ethanol mixed with a primary fuel is a promising alternative fuel. To increase performance, an optimal compression ratio must be set. The compression ratio is the ratio of the maximum volume divided by the minimum volume. Ethanol-gasoline mixtures have high octane and can be used in high-compression engines. This research aims to identify how changes in compression ratio can affect various aspects of engine performance, including torque, power, fuel efficiency, and thermal efficiency. This study is expected to reveal new insights that can aid in optimizing engine performance and developing a more comprehensive understanding of the characteristics of the E50 fuel within the context of Otto engine usage. A single-cylinder Otto engine was used for testing. Compression ratios of 9.3:1, 10.3:1, and 11.3:1 were tested. The results showed that the compression ratio of 9.3:1 produces a peak torque of 7.17 N∙m, peak power of 3.36 kW, lowest BSFC of 0.275 kg/kWh, and highest BTE of 37.49%. A compression ratio of 10.3:1 produces a peak torque of 7.21 N∙m, peak power of 3.57 N∙m, lowest BSFC of 0.281 kg/kWh, and highest BTE of 39.46%. A compression ratio of 11.3:1 produces a peak torque of 7.73 N∙m, peak power of 3.81 kW, lowest BSFC of 0.275 kg/kWh, and highest BTE of 40.36%. Compared with pertalite, E50 reduces torque by 9.25%, power by 9.93%, BSFC by 3.66%, and BTE by 8.76% at all compression ratios.

Atrial fibrillation in middle-aged athletes: Impact on left atrial, ventricular and exercise performance.

High volume endurance training may increase the risk of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) in middle-aged athletes. Limited data are available describing the cardiovascular phenotype of middle-aged endurance athletes, or the impact of AF on atrial function and exercise performance performed in sinus rhythm. The purpose of this study was to characterize LA phasic function at rest and during exercise in athletes with paroxysmal AF, and to determine its impact on exercise performance. Fifteen endurance trained males (EA) (56 ± 5 years) without AF and 14 endurance trained males with paroxysmal AF (EA-AF) (55 ± 8 years) underwent echocardiography during cycle-ergometry at light and moderate intensities. Resting LA maximal volumes were similar between EA and EA-AF (30 ± 4 vs. 29 ± 8 ml/m2, p = 0.50), and there were no differences in atrial electromechanical delay (AEMD). During moderate intensity exercise, EA-AF had reduced LA conduit (30 ± 6 vs. 40 ± 5 ml/m2, p = 0.002) LA booster volumes (17 ± 5 vs. 21 ± 4 ml/m2, p = 0.021), and reduced LV stroke volumes (100 ± 12 vs. 117 ± 16 ml, p = 0.007). These results demonstrate that exercise testing in athletes with AF unmasks evidence of adverse functional cardiac remodelling that may contribute to impaired exercise performance. It is unclear whether these functional alterations are the consequence of AF. Reductions in LA conduit volume, LA booster volume, and LV stroke volume during exercise may be helpful in clinical management and distinguishing pathologic from physiologic remodelling.

Assessment of Left Atrial Phasic Volumes and Functions During Third Trimester of Healthy Pregnancy

Background: Conception represents a physiological progression associated with adaptations in the structure, blood flow dynamics, and operational aspects of the cardiac response to temporary alternation in both preload and afterload. Ventricular volume and LA dimensions gradually and continuously increase due to increasing cardiac output and preload. The increased volume burden during the last trimester aggravates the possible cardiovascular disorders. Limited echocardiographic information exists on left atrium (LA) volume and function during the third trimester of standard conception among Iraqi women. Aim: To estimate the capacity and functionality of the left atrium throughout the last trimester of standard conception. Methods: This research was carried out on 75 normal gravid females (cases ) and 75 nonpregnant females (control ); women were given attention at Al-Furat Teaching Hospital from the 1 of April 2022 to the 30 of May 2023, the comprehensive 2D echocardiographic study had been done for each one of them. Results: Pregnant women category revealed a high noteworthy rise in left atrial maximum volume LA Max, left atrial minimum volume (LA Min) and pre-atrial volume (LA Pre- A) hn contrast to nonpregnant women group vs. vs. and vs. respectively. As well, the study showed that in pregnant women group there is high significant increase in Left atrium reservoir capacity, Left atrium conduit role and LA booster duty vs. vs. vs. contrasted with control. Additionally, the total emptying fraction% , LA Active ejection fraction % significantly higher in pregnant women than the control , vs. while the LA Passive EF% had no significant difference between pregnant women about control . Conclusion: In normal gravid females in the last trimester, there is an increase in LA volumes(LA maximum volume, LA minimum volume, and LA pre-A volumes) and enhancement in LA reservoir capacity, conduit role, and booster functions by using 2DE, which can quickly assess LA phasic volumes and function.

Evaluation of Biogas Production Potential from Waste Coconut Water

Coconut oil production is the eminent agro based industries in Tamil Nadu. The matured coconut water was considered as a waste. Coconut oil industries discharge considerable amount of waste coconut water having very high values of Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) to the extent of 29,000 mgl-1, the wash water about 3,000 mg. and Total Solids (TS) of 5.45 ± 0.35%. Coconut water contains most nutrients required for microbial growth. The pH of coconut water is 6.1. The Total Suspended Solids in coconut water is found out as 0.0028 g/ml. The Total Dissolved Solids is 0.8014 g/ml, Total Solids is 0.8042 g/ml and Volatile Soluble Solids is 99.5 %. A laboratory scale batch type anaerobic digester (Air tight 2 litre plastic bottles) was set up for the experimental purpose for a retention time of 35 days. Coconut water, water and cow dung were mixed in different proportions (5 treatments). Each treatment was replicated 3 times. Biogas volume and biogas composition were measured at 5:30 pm every day. Remarkable volume of biogas production was noticed between 12th and 16th days. Maximum biogas volume of 976. 67 ml was noticed for the combination of 1:1 (Cow dung: Coconut water) with methane content of 53 %. For the combination of 2:1:1 (Cow dung: Coconut water: Water) the maximum volume of biogas production is 833.3ml with methane content of 31 %. For the combination of 1:1 (water: Cow Dung) the maximum volume of biogas produced is 133.3 ml with methane content of 48 %. The biogas produced from different ratios was tested for its flammability. It was seen that blue flame is produced and the flame is last for few seconds for all ratios but the maximum amount of flame was produced from the sample which contains maximum amount of Coconut water than other samples.

Modeling of layer thickness and strain for the two-layered metal clad plate rolling with the different roll diameters

The realization of online prediction in rolling production line is an innovative breakthrough in key rolling technology. The deformation behavior of metal clad plate in the deformation zone under different roll diameters is modeled and analyzed in this paper based on the flow function method. The volume flow through the unit section at the rolling inlet is maximum. The maximum volume flow of carbon steel layer occurs at the near bonding surface. The maximum volume flow of stainless steel layer occurs near the top surface. The strong shear effect caused by the velocity break mainly occurs on the side of the carbon steel layer, which plays a decisive role in the composite of metal plate. Meanwhile, the position of the maximum shear stress has a tendency to move towards the outlet of the deformation zone with the increase of the reduction rate, contained within the rolling zone. According to the flow function field, the velocity field model of the clad plate in the rolling deformation zone is established. Based on the upper bound method, the layer thickness and every power proportion can be obtained by the principle of minimum energy. Further, the equivalent strain model of the element is established based on the velocity field and strain rate field models. The accuracy of the model is verified by rolling simulation, experiments and microscopic characterization under different working conditions. The model can provide theoretical guidance and technical support for the online prediction and control of deformation behavior in the rolling process.

Effect of pH on the Poly(acrylic acid)/Poly(vinyl alcohol)/Lysozyme Complexes Formation.

The interactions between poly(acrylic acid) (PAA), poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), and lysozyme (Lys) in an aqueous environment at pHs of 2, 4, and 7.4 were discussed considering the experimental data obtained by turbidimetry, electrokinetic and rheological measurements, and FTIR analysis. It was found that the increase in PAA amount reduces the coacervation zone by shifting the critical pHcr1to higher values while the critical pHcr2 remains unchanged. The coacervation zone extended from 3.1-4.2 to 2.9-4.7 increasing the Lys concentration from 0.2% to 0.5%. The zeta potential measurements showed that the PAA-PVA-Lys mixture in water is the most stable in the pH range of 4.5-8. Zero shear viscosity exhibited deviations from additivity at both investigated pHs, and a maximum value corresponding to a maximum hydrodynamic volume was revealed at PAA weight fractions of 0.4 and 0.5 for pHs of 4 and 7.4, respectively. The binding affinity to Lys of PAA, established by molecular dynamics simulation, was slightly higher than that of PVA. The more stable complex was PAA-Lys formed in a very acidic environment; for that, a binding affinity of -7.1 kcal/mol was determined.

Gaseous Micro-Embolic Activity and Goal-Directed Perfusion Management in a Closed System for Cardiopulmonary Bypass and Minimally Invasive Extracorporeal Circulation during Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting.

Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) techniques are becoming minimally invasive in clinical practice. The literature describes various extracorporeal techniques which seek to eliminate air-blood contact and reduce both hemodilution and the contact surface such as in Minimally invasive Extracorporeal Circulation (MiECC) and closed systems for CPB. However, the delivery of micro-embolic activity in the circuit and metabolic activity in terms of oxygen delivery for Goal-Directed Perfusion (GDP) management, in relation to the patient's blood volume and central venous pressure, have never been related and correlated. In this report, we present a cohort study that investigated these aspects between the closed SVR2000 System and modular MiECC (both from Eurosets SRL, Medolla, Italy). Data were collected retrospectively and used to compare 60 consecutive patients who underwent isolated coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery by two surgeons using an SVR2000 oxygenator in 30 procedures, with a matched cohort of patients from the same period who underwent isolated CABG surgery by two other surgeons using a modular MiECC in 30 procedures. The primary endpoints collected were data on micro-embolic activity, including the number of gaseous micro-emboli in the circuit during the procedure, the mean maintenance value of oxygen delivery (DO2) and data relating to venous return volume and central venous pressure (CVP). During the CPB procedures, the following values were recorded for the closed SVR2000 and MiECC groups, respectively: the average number of gaseous micro-emboli (GME) in the venous line, 833 ± 23 vs 1221 ± 45 (p = 0.028); GME in the outlet of the pump, 375 ± 45 vs 429 ± 76 (p = 0.89; GME in the arterial line, 189 ± 36 vs 205 ± 27 (p = 0.92), and the volume of GME in the arterial line (mL), 0.32± 12 vs 0.49± 17 (p = 0.93). The mean Indexed Oxygen Delivery (DO2i) during cross-clamp (ml/min/m2) was 319 ±12 vs 278 ±9 (p = 0.0019), respectively. The maximum mean volume of venous return in the soft-shell venous reservoir (ml) was 1801 ±128 vs 824 ±192 (p = 0.038). The mean central venous pressure (CVP) during cross-clamp (mmHg) was 0 ± 2 vs 6 ± 2 (p = 0.019). In this study, the results in the closed SVR2000 group were not statistically inferior to those in the modular MiECC group in terms of gaseous micro-embolic activity during CPB. Our analysis showed an important reduction of GME delivery in both systems. The closed SVR2000 group showed better management for GDP in terms of DO2i, associated with the flexibility of dynamic volume management and the absence of cavitation and regulation of the rate per minute and pump flow, which were reported in the MiECC group. The SVR2000 and modular MiECC systems were both safe and effective in perioperative practice without iatrogenic problems.

Early and Higher Volumes of Formula Supplementation after Birth Impact Breastfeeding Rates at Discharge in Well-Baby Nursery: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

Physiologic breast milk production in the first 24 hours is estimated to be between 2 and 10 mL per feed. Many mothers intending to breastfeed use formula supplementation (FS) early on, which can affect successful breastfeeding. Whether the volume and timing of FS introduced in the first 24 hours of life (24 HOL) impacts the rate of "breastfeeding at discharge" (BFAD) is not well-studied and was investigated herein. Single-center, retrospective, chart review of breastfeeding infants born at ≥35 weeks who received supplementation in the first 24 HOL. Comprehensive demographic data pertaining to maternal and infant characteristics, along with infant feeding data, were collected. Four supplementation characteristics, (timing, rate, volume [mL/kg per feed], and type [expressed breast milk (EBM) or formula]) were correlated with BFAD. Among 3,102 supplemented infants in whom mothers intended to breastfeed, 1,031 (33.2%) infants were BFAD. At baseline, African American, Medicaid-insured, and single mothers had lower odds of BFAD. The overall maximum volume of FS per feed was 11.0 mL/kg (interquartile range 8.0-14.4). With each hour of delay in first supplementation, the odds of BFAD increased by 2.8% (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.022, 0.035). With every 1 mL/kg increase in the first formula volume, subsequent supplementation frequency increased by 4.5%. A positive association was observed between BFAD and a lower rate of supplementation (cutoff value ≤35.1%). However, among infants with these lower rates of supplementation, each unit increase in maximum FS, from 2 to 15 mL/kg, decreased the probability of BFAD by 4.2% (3.6-4.7%). Additionally, we observed that infants who were given at least one EBM supplementation (n = 223; 7.2%) had substantially increased rates of BFAD (odds ratio [OR] = 9.8, 95% CI 7.2-13.3). Early and higher volumes of FS negatively impacted BFAD. Birthweight-based FS of feeding with physiological volumes may increase breastfeeding rates at discharge. · Higher volumes of first supplementation increases subsequent supplementation frequency.. · For each unit increase in maximum supplementation, BFAD probability decreases by 4.2%.. · Even one EBM supplementation increases rates of BFAD..

Assessment of maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures in skeletal Class II patients with different growth patterns.

To evaluate maximal inspiratory (MIP) and expiratory (MEP) pressures, which are reflective of respiratory muscle strength, in skeletal Class II patients with different growth patterns (horizontal, average, and vertical) and to correlate those with airway dimension. Patients with a Class II skeletal base seeking orthodontic treatment were assigned to the following groups: average, horizontal, and vertical growth pattern. The control group (n = 14) comprised patients with a Class I skeletal base and average growth pattern. Airway dimensions were obtained using cone-beam computed tomography scans, and a spirometer with a pressure transducer was used for assessment of MIP and MEP. Routine spirometry for assessment of lung function was also performed. No significant differences were found in maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures for the study groups in comparison with the control group. Class I patients had significantly greater oropharyngeal and nasopharyngeal airway volumes compared with the study groups. No significant difference in minimal cross-section area of the airway was observed among groups. A weak positive correlation between maximal inspiratory pressure and airway volume was observed. Although Class I patients displayed significantly greater oropharyngeal and nasopharyngeal airway volumes, there was no significant difference in respiratory muscle strength or airway function between Class II patients with different growth patterns and the Class I control group. The findings underscore the significance of exploring factors beyond craniofacial growth patterns that may contribute to sleep-related breathing disorders.

Regional Aspects of Water Use and Management in the Republic of Moldova

Water is the most important environmental factor that has a direct influence on the health of the population and the development of society. There is a clear need to establish the supply of the population with sufficient quantities of drinking water as a priority direction in state policy and actions for the health of the population in relation to the environment, in the context of sustainable management of water resources. Although, currently, the national balance of water reserves - water consumption in the Republic of Moldova is adequate in relation to the available resources, in the context of climate aridity and inefficient management of water consumption, this balance may be affected in the future. In the period 2003-2022 that was taken into study, several periods with a maximum volume of water use (years 2007, 2009, 2020 and 2022) were highlighted as a result of droughts that affected the whole country. In all 6 development regions, most of the water used is abstracted from surface sources (85%). At district level, especially in rural localities, water use from underground sources, including wells and springs, predominates as a result of reduced access to public water supply systems. About 75% of the total volume of water used is attributed to technological uses. On the right side of the Dniester River, water is predominantly used for domestic (48%) and agricultural (38%) purposes. This research aims to highlight the dynamics and particularities of water resource use in regional aspect, highlighting the branch structure and some limiting factors in determining the correct volume of water used.

Droplet volume modulation based on multi-waveform superposition for drop-on-demand material jetting

The piezoelectric drop-on-demand material jetting technique is widely used in additive manufacturing due to its cost-effectiveness, high accuracy, and the ability to efficiently print a variety of materials. However, there is a conflict between the requirements related to printing productivity and printing quality, which is solved by the droplet volume modulation method. In recent years, a variety of inkjet technologies have been developed to control the droplet volume, but control was achieved only over a small range, with the ratio between the maximum and minimum volume approx. 10. In this paper, the advance droplet phenomenon was shown and its formation mechanism was determined through experiments and simulations. Based on the formation mechanism and the response characteristic of the piezoelectric printhead to the basic waveform, a droplet volume modulation method was proposed. The method was based on multi-waveform superposition and the aim was to achieve a larger volume range of droplet ejection. The experimental results have shown that the newly designed waveform results in a controllable and stable single droplet ejection in a volume range from 0.61 pl to 83.7 pl, with the ratio between the maximum and minimum volume more than 130, an order of magnitude above current levels. Hence, this work provides a new perspective for improving both the printing quality and printing productivity of additive manufacturing.

MRI T2 mapping assessment of T2 relaxation time in desmoid tumors as a quantitative imaging biomarker of tumor response: preliminary results.

Because size-based imaging criteria poorly capture biologic response in desmoid-type fibromatosis (DF), changes in MRI T2 signal intensity are frequently used as a response surrogate, but remain qualitative. We hypothesized that absolute quantification of DF T2 relaxation time derived from parametric T2 maps would be a feasible and effective imaging biomarker of disease activity. This IRB-approved retrospective study included 11 patients with DF, managed by observation or systemic therapy, assessed by 3T MRI. Tumor maximum diameter, volume, and T2-weighted signal intensity were derived from manual tumor segmentations. Tumor:muscle T2 signal ratios were recorded. Two readers measured tumor T2 relaxation times using a commercial T2 scanning sequence, manual ROI delineation and commercial calculation software enabling estimation of reader reliability. Objective response rates based on RECIST1.1 and best responses were compared between size-based and signal-based parameters. Median patient age was 52.6 years; 8 subjects were female (73%). Nine patients with longitudinal assessments were followed for an average of 314 days. Median baseline tumor diameter was 7.2 cm (range 4.4 - 18.2 cm). Median baseline T2 was 65.1 ms (range 40.4 - 94.8 ms, n=11); median at last follow-up was 44.3 ms (-32% from baseline; range 29.3 - 94.7 ms, n=9). T2 relaxation times correlated with tumor:muscle T2 signal ratios, Spearman p=0.78 (p<0.001). T2 mapping showed high inter-reader reliability, ICC=0.84. The best response as a percentage change in T2 values was statistically significant (mean -17.9%, p=0.05, paired t-test) while change in diameter was not (mean -8.9%, p=0.12). Analysis of T2 relaxation time maps of DF may offer a feasible quantitative biomarker for assessing the extent of response to treatment. This approach may have high inter-reader reliability.

Safety and Efficacy Study of the Application of Redensified Cross-Linked Hyaluronic Acid for Filling Gluteal Volume and Cellulite Depressions.

To test the efficacy and safety of cross-linked hyaluronic acid application for filling buttocks and cellulite depressions and its permanence over time. For a period of a year, 25 patients were applied redensified cross-linked hyaluronic acid in the gluteal area. These patients were all 23-45-year-old women with little fat to be removed. The product used is composed of hyaluronic acid with high cross-linking and redensification which allows it to maintain shape and durability over time. All patients underwent tumescent anesthesia with neuroleptic sedation in the operating room. The procedure was regarded as minimal (container, sterile gloves, and surgical field). The amount applied for gluteal augmentation varied from 50 to 100 ml per application area and according to the patient's needs. For the filling of cellulite depressions, the application was up to 3 cc per depression and up to a total of 40 ml. The maximum volume used per patient in the buttocks did not exceed 200 ml, and it did not exceed 40 ml in cellulite depressions. A group of patients was treated in the upper and middle third of the buttocks in superficial and deep subcutaneous layers and in cellulite depressions. Very good results have been obtained without any major complications. The use of redensified cross-linked hyaluronic acid of non-animal origin is therefore an option for gluteal augmentation and cellulite depressions. Although the product degrades over time, after 12 months, 44% of treated patients rated their results as highly or very much improved, 36% as improved, 16% rated the improvement as poor, and one patient (4%) was dissatisfied. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Manufacturing multifunctional vascularized composites by through-thickness frontal polymerization and depolymerization: A numerical study on the impact of sacrificial fiber configurations

Concurrent through-thickness frontal polymerization and vascularization (FP-VaSC) is emerging as a promising alternative to conventional multi-step fabrication approaches for vascularized thermoset polymers and composites. This method relies on a localized and self-propagating exothermic polymerization reaction front of the polymer matrix, to simultaneously cure the matrix, and depolymerize pre-embedded sacrificial templates. It delivers fully cured thermoset polymers and composites rapidly and energy-efficiently with the desired vascular system in a single step. While previous studies demonstrated the capability of this method for making woven laminates with a single vascular channel created by embedding a single straight sacrificial fiber, it is desirable to explore the potential of this method for making composites with multiple channels for more practical applications. We employ a previously validated thermo-chemical model from our prior study, to systematically investigate the reaction process with the presence of multiple sacrificial fibers. Two sacrificial fiber configurations are considered, namely, inline and staggered fiber configurations. Within each configuration, we consider a range of horizontal and vertical fiber spacing, which also lead to different sacrificial fiber volume fractions. This study reveals the interactions between the sacrificial fiber and the reactions, identifies the working window of this method for different sacrificial fiber configurations, and provides guidance for manufacturing laminates with multiple vascular channels. We also propose an analytical model that can quickly approximate the maximum sacrificial fiber volume fraction that can lead to successful FP-VaSC for a given carbon fiber volume fraction and compare the results with those from the thermo-chemical modeling.

Fabrication of bio-based biodegradable poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) composite foams for highly efficient oil-water separation

The open-cell bio-based biodegradable polymer foams show good application prospect in dealing with the serious environmental issue caused by oil spill and organic solvents spills, while the cell structures and hydrophobic properties of the foams limit their performance. In this work, the poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) was selected to help prepare bio-based biodegradable poly(lactic acid) (PLA) foams. Based on a two-step foaming method, the crystallization ability of different samples was regulated by the “original crystals” together with PHBV in the foaming process, where skeleton structures were provided to facilitate the open-cell structures and promote their mechanical property. As illustrated, PHBV facilitated the formation of open-cell PLA foams, where the foams displayed superior oil-water separation capacity. The maximum volume expansion ratio of the foams was 80.08, the contact angle of deionized water reached to 134.5°, the adsorption capacity for oil or organic solvents was 10.8 g/g-51.8 g/g, and the adsorption capacity for CCl4 can still maintained 83.5 % of the initial value after 10 adsorption-desorption cycles. This work not only clarified the foaming mechanism of open-cell foams, but also provided a green and simple method for preparing bio-based biodegradable foams possessing excellent oil-water separation performance.

Efficacy of cola ingestion for oesophageal food bolus impaction: open label, multicentre, randomised controlled trial

ObjectiveTo determine the efficacy and safety of cola in resolving complete oesophageal food bolus impaction.DesignOpen label, multicentre, randomised controlled trial.SettingEmergency departments of five Dutch hospitals at the secondary and tertiary...

Analisis Kebutuhan Parkir Pasar Inpres Lipa Kalabahi, Kabupaten Alor

Parking is a problem often encountered, especially in areas with high activity, such as markets. With the community's needs that must be met, the government provides a market for the people of Alor, namely the Inpres Lipa market. It offers good service and facilities, one of which is by providing a parking lot. However, because the parking area is often used for selling areas, several vehicles are parked on the shoulder of the road, causing traffic jams around the market. This research aims to determine the characteristics of parking and parking needs at present and in the next five years. The method used in this study is descriptive quantitative to describe parking characteristics and parking needs in the next five years. The analysis results are as follows: The maximum vehicle volume for motorcycles is 322 vehicles, and the maximum volume for cars is 52 vehicles, while the minimum vehicle volume for motorcycles is 177 vehicles, and cars are 23 vehicles. The highest accumulation of parking for motorbikes was 74 vehicles, while there were nine vehicles for cars. The minimum parking duration for motorbikes is 0,03 hours, and for cars is 0,05. The maximum duration of the motorbike is 1,095 hours, and the maximum duration of the car is 1,09 hours. The maximum average parking duration for motorbikes is 1,096 hours, the maximum average time for cars is 1,001 hours, the average period for motorcycles is a minimum of 0,43 hours, and the average period for cars is a minimum of 0,4 hours. Parking capacity for motorbikes is 79 SRP, and cars are 10 SRP. The parking index for motorbikes and cars is &lt;100%, meaning parking facilities are not problematic. The highest current need for parking is 44 vehicles, with a land area of ​​66 m2, and five cars, with an area of ​​62,5 m2. The projected demand for parking in 2027 for motorbikes is 93 SRP of parking space required 139,5 m2, and for cars, 11 SRP of parking space required 135,7 m2.

Portable Incinerator Capacity of 5000 Grams with Used Fuel Oil

Waste is a significant problem that needs to be urgently addressed. If waste is left untreated and disposed of improperly, it can become contaminated by bacteria, viruses, and other toxins that pose serious risks to humans. In this study, researchers designed and created a portable incinerator that utilizes used oil fuel. The study aimed to determine the highest temperature that can be achieved when incinerating wet and dry waste at weights of 5000 grams, 3000 grams, and 1000 grams. Additionally, performance of portable incinerator was evaluated based on the combustion rate and fuel consumption. The result show that the maximum temperature generated by both dry and wet waste is 450 degrees Celcius. The maximum volume of waste that can be loaded into the combustion chamber is 5000 grams. The results show that the maximum combustion rate of the portable incinerator for dry waste weighing 1000 grams is 196.85 gr/s.The maximum burning rate for wet waste weighing 1000 grams is 165.56 gr/s. The minimum fuel consumption produced from dry waste weighing 1000 grams is 300 ml of used oil. And the maximum fuel consumption is produced from wet waste weighing 5000 grams, namely 1000 ml of used oil.