Pressure Index Research Articles

Ecological Footprint and Carrying Capacity of the Agricultural Water-Land-Energy Nexus in China

Regarding water and land use, China's farming industry is unrivalled. Energy consumption and carbon production are two sides of the same coin for the agricultural sector. Utilising approaches to agricultural water pollution, biological ecological footprint, energy ecological footprint, and carrying capacity, this research investigates the ecological pressure index of agricultural water-land energy in China and the spatiotemporal patterns of resource depletion. The main results are as follows: There was an upward trend in China's agricultural BEF, reaching almost 66% of the total in 2020. Although it decreased, the ecological impact of PEF (acid runoff from farms) remained high at around 33%. Agricultural energy usage, on the other hand, has the lowest EEF. Over the last 20 years, there has been a 114.663% increase in agriculture's total ecological footprint (TEF) per person. Ecological footprints per hectare of agricultural land ranged from 3.16 to 3.63 hectares. There has been a substantial increase in ecological efficiency in the agricultural sector. Shandong, Henan, and Heilongjiang provinces have among China's highest TEFs. Sichuan, Tibet, and Hunan are the three provinces with the highest agricultural total ecological capacity (TEC). With stress indices (TEF/TEC) of 1.42 and 1.14, respectively, Tianjin and Henan provinces have the highest levels of agricultural ecological stress. Sustainable crop production is hindered because of the significant disparity between the demand for and availability of natural resources in agriculture. In addition to offering strategies and ideas for fostering sustainable agricultural expansion, the results may shed light on the causes and dynamics of resource pressure in agriculture across different eras and regions.

The effect of 12-week combined balance and plyometric training on dynamic balance and lower extremity injury risk in college dancers

BackgroundDancers face significant physical demands and are at high risk for lower extremity injuries due to the complexity and intensity of their movements, which require strong dynamic balance. Improving dynamic balance through training can potentially enhance performance and reduce injury risk.ObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the effects of a 12-week combined balance and plyometric training program (BP) compared to plyometric training alone (PL) on dynamic balance and lower extremity injury risk among college dancers.MethodsA total of 30 female college dancers were randomly assigned to either the BP group (n = 15) or the PL group (n = 15). Both groups participated in a 12-week training program, with the BP group engaging in both balance and plyometric exercises, and the PL group performing only plyometric exercises. Dynamic balance was assessed using the Dynamic Posture Stability Index (DPSI). Lower extremity injury risk was evaluated using the Limb Symmetry Index (LSI) and Center of Pressure (COP) measurements, pre- and post-intervention.ResultsThe BP group showed significant improvements in dynamic balance compared to the PL group, with a reduction in DPSI values (DF-DPSI: p < 0.001, partial η2 = 0.625; DL-DPSI: p < 0.001, partial η2 = 0.559). Additionally, the BP group showed significant reductions in COP displacements, particularly in the anterior-posterior direction (DF-COPAP: p < 0.015, partial η2 = 0.101; DL-COPAP: p = 0.019, partial η2 = 0.094). The BP group also demonstrated greater improvements in LSI-3C and LSI-6, which reflect dynamic stability (LSI-3C: p < 0.001, partial η2 = 0.229; LSI-6: p = 0.006, partial η2 = 0.128).ConclusionThe 12-week combined balance and plyometric training program was more effective than plyometric training alone in improving dynamic balance and reducing lower extremity injury risk in college dancers. This combined training approach is recommended for improving performance and preventing injuries in dancers.

Differential risk of cardiovascular complications in patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus in Ghana: A hospital-based cross-sectional study.

To characterize clinically relevant subgroups of patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) based on adiposity, insulin secretion, and resistance indices. A cross-sectional study was conducted at Eastern Regional Hospital in Ghana from July to October 2021 to investigate long-term patients with T2DM. To select participants, a systematic random sampling method was employed. Demographic data was collected using a structured questionnaire and fasting blood samples were taken to measure glycemic and lipid levels. Blood pressure and adiposity indices were measured during recruitment. The risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) was defined using Framingham scores and standard low-density lipoprotein thresholds. To analyze the data, k-means clustering algorithms and regression analysis were used. The study identified three groups in female patients according to body mass index, relative fat mass, glycated hemoglobin, and triglyceride-glucose index. These groups included the obesity-related phenotype, the severe insulin resistance phenotype, and the normal weight phenotype with improved insulin resistance. Among male patients with T2DM, two groups were identified, including the obesity-related phenotype with severe insulin resistance and the normal weight phenotype with improved insulin sensitivity. The severe insulin resistance phenotype in female patients was associated with an increased risk of high CVD (OR = 5.34, 95%CI:2.11-13.55) and metabolic syndrome (OR = 7.07; 95%CI:3.24-15.42). Among male patients, the obesity-related phenotype with severe insulin resistance was associated with an increased intermediate (OR = 21.78, 95%CI:4.17-113.78) and a high-risk CVD (OR = 6.84, 95%CI:1.45-32.12). The findings highlight significant cardiometabolic heterogeneity among T2DM patients. The subgroups of T2DM patients characterized by obesity and/or severe insulin resistance with or without poor glycemic control, have increased risk of CVD. This underscores the importance of considering differences in adiposity, insulin secretion, and sensitivity indices when making clinical decisions for patients with T2DM.

Association of Perinatal Factors and Family Sociodemographic Characteristics With Cardiometabolic Health in Pre-Adolescence: Cross-Sectional Results From Healthy Growth Study.

Study the influence of a variety of perinatal factors on the presence of metabolic syndrome and its parameters in prepubertal age, considering socio-demographic factors, sex, Tanner stage and weight status of the preadolescent. Data collected from the cross-sectional Healthy Growth Study (2007) in students from four prefectures of Greece and their families. Cardiometabolic risk factors (waist circumference, blood pressure and blood indices) and perinatal data (from parents and health records) were collected. Single and a multiple logistic regression performed to assess the associations with cardiometabolic risk in preadolescence. Dependent variables included waist circumference, blood glucose, HDL-C, TG, blood pressure and metabolic syndrome presence, while independent variables encompassed perinatal factors categorised as pre-pregnancy, during and post-pregnancy. 2666 pre-adolescents (mean age 11.2 year) participated in the study. After adjustment for parental educational level, family income, sex, Tanner stage and weight category, maternal pre-pregnancy weight was positively associated with high waist circumference (OR, 95% CI 1.02 (1.00-1.04)), low HDL-C levels (OR, 95% CI 1.01 (1.00-1.03)) and metabolic syndrome (OR, 95% CI 1.02 (1.00-1.05)). Timing of solid foods' introduction was positively associated with high waist circumference (OR, 95% CI 1.09 (1.01-1.08)), gestational age with high glucose levels (OR, 95% CI 1.12 (1.04-1.19)), smoking (OR, 95% CI 1.07 (1.00-1.14)) and alcohol consumption (OR, 95% CI 2.35 (1.05-5.27)) during the first trimester of breastfeeding with high glucose levels and low HDL-C levels, respectively. Number of previous miscarriages was positively associated with low HDL-C levels (OR, 95% CI 1.28 (1.04-1.57)). Gestational age was negatively associated with high waist circumference (OR, 95% CI 0.87 (0.80-0.95)) and iron supplementation in the third pregnancy trimester negatively association with high TG levels (OR, 95% CI 0.34 (0.12-0.91)). Maternal weight, perinatal behaviours, infant feeding and miscarriages influence pre-pubertal cardiometabolic health, independent of sociodemographics, sex, Tanner stage and weight.

Structured Exercise Therapy Increases Endogenous Antioxidants to Repair Muscle Strength and Health in Porcine Ischemic Myopathy Model of Peripheral Artery Disease.

Objective: The mechanisms of structured exercise therapy (SET) in peripheral artery disease (PAD) are not clear. We have developed an SET module for our large animal model of ischemic myopathy. We hypothesized that SET would increase muscle strength and walking distance in this model. The objective was to discover the SET-dependent mechanisms involved in this process. Approach: After induction of unilateral hind limb ischemia, three animals were exposed to standard environmental enrichment (sedentary or SED) and four animals underwent SET thrice weekly for 4 weeks postoperatively. Walking, hind limb pressure indices, and strength testing were performed weekly. Terminal muscle samples were used for skeletal muscle testing. Results: SET animals increased walking distance over time. SET increased muscle strength in both the ischemic and nonischemic limb. When comparing the ischemic SED hind limb muscle with that of ischemic + SET, the SET group has improved respiration and decreased oxidative stress. Markers of cell death and impaired functional regeneration were increased in SED ischemic muscles but returned toward baseline in the SET ischemic muscle. Innovation: This study uses a validated, large animal model of ischemic myopathy similar to that seen in humans with PAD. The effects of exercise on limb function, strength, and skeletal muscle health are reported in this model. Conclusion: SET increases muscle strength and regeneration by increasing endogenous antioxidants and mitochondrial respiration, resulting in favorable muscle health despite ongoing ischemia. This model may assist in preclinical testing of PAD therapies designed to improve muscle health. [Figure: see text].

Association Between Microalbuminuria and Left Ventricular Hypertrophy in Hypertensive Patients: A Marker of Target Organ Damage

Microalbuminuria, an indicator of endothelial dysfunction and organ damage, is often linked to left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) in individuals with hypertension. Identifying microalbuminuria early can offer critical insights into assessing cardiovascular risks. This research aimed to explore the relationship between microalbuminuria and LVH in hypertensive patients and to evaluate the clinical relevance of microalbuminuria as an indicator of organ damage. This cross-sectional study involved 150 hypertensive patients, divided into two groups: 75 with LVH (Group 1) and 75 without LVH (Group 2). LVH was diagnosed using echocardiography, specifically the left ventricular mass index (LVMI). Microalbuminuria was measured via the albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) in a single urine sample, with a cutoff of 30–300 µg/mg. Data on blood pressure, hypertension duration, and body mass index (BMI) were collected. Statistical analyses included t-tests and chi-square tests. Microalbuminuria was significantly more common in Group 1 than in Group 2 (60% vs. 20%; p < 0.001). The average ACR was also higher in Group 1 (65.4 ± 20.7 µg/mg vs. 22.5 ± 10.2 µg/mg; p < 0.001). Patients with LVH had a longer history of hypertension, higher BMI, and increased blood pressure compared to those without LVH (p < 0.05). Microalbuminuria is closely associated with LVH in hypertensive patients and can serve as a non-invasive marker for organ damage. Regular screening for microalbuminuria in hypertensive patients can enhance risk assessment and inform targeted treatments.

Interventional effects of different track and field sports on human cardiovascular function indicators and physiological energy metabolism

ObjectiveTo analyze the effects of different track and field events on human cardiovascular function and physiological energy metabolism.MethodThe research subjects were ordinary male students majoring in physical education at a certain university, aged between 18 and 25 years old. A total of 42 people were divided into four sub sample groups: sprint group (10 people), jump group (10 people), long-distance running group (10 people), and regular student group (12 people). The COSMED K5 portable gas metabolism analysis system was used to measure cardiopulmonary function, and key indicators such as Maximum Oxygen Uptake (VO2max) were evaluated using a Stepwise Increasing Load Test (SILT). The two factor repeated measures ANOVA method was used to analyze the effects of different load levels and groups on cardiopulmonary function and energy metabolism.ResultThe weight, systolic blood pressure, and diastolic blood pressure of different populations were not statistically significant in a quiet state (p > 0.05). The waist to hip ratios of the short-distance and long-distance running teams were 0.75 ± 0.03 and 0.76 ± 0.03, respectively, which showed significant differences compared to ordinary students (p < 0.05). There was also a significant difference in heart rate between different track and field teams and ordinary students in a quiet state (p < 0.05). The termination load of different track and field teams varied, with the long-distance running team having the highest load (p < 0.01), followed by the jumping team. Compared with ordinary students, there was a significant difference (p < 0.05) in the termination heart rate among the sprinting, long-distance, and jumping teams. However, there was p > 0.05 in the systolic blood pressure index among the four groups of subjects. There was a significant difference (p < 0.05) in diastolic blood pressure between sprinting and jumping teams and ordinary students. In a quiet state, the energy metabolism of long-distance running teams, sprinting teams, jumping teams, and ordinary students was 1.52 ± 0.64, 1.81 ± 0.91, 1.86 ± 0.87, and 2.87 ± 0.96, respectively.ConclusionIn a quiet state, there are significant differences in body shape and function between different track and field training teams and the general population. In a quantitative load state, long-distance runners have the strongest adaptability to load.

Statin use and cardiovascular risk in young adults in the United States.

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) pathogenesis begins in early adulthood, yet guidance on statin use for primary prevention in young adults is limited. This is a retrospective multi-center cohort study of adults aged 20-39 years receiving primary care within 87 U.S. health systems (2022-2023). The study included patients with at least 1 low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) measurement. The primary outcome was the measured the proportion of patients prescribed a statin within one month of LDL-C testing. The characteristics of those who were and were not prescribed statins were compared using standardized mean differences (SMD). Finally, the PREVENT 10- and 30-year ASCVD risk scores for the "average" patient (using the cohort mean values of risk score variables), a "lower-risk" patient, and a "higher-risk" patient were compared (using pooled values one standard deviation below and above the mean, respectively). Analyses were conducted in 2024-2025. Statins were initiated in 3,309 of 775,162 patients. Those who received statins were more likely to be older, male, and have higher mean LDL-C, systolic blood pressure, hemoglobin A1c, and body mass index (SMD>0.10). PREVENT 10-year risk scores were similar or higher among those prescribed statins compared to those not prescribed statins for the average (0.75% vs 0.76%), lower-risk (0.19% vs 0.35%), and higher-risk (8.87% vs 4.55%). In a multi-center cohort, 0.43% of young adults were prescribed a statin within one month of initial LDL-C measurement. The average patient would not have qualified for statin therapy based on their PREVENT risk percentile. Future studies should evaluate the cost effectiveness of statins for primary prevention in 20 to 39-year-old patients.

A salmon lice prediction model.

Salmon lice (Lepeophtheirus salmonis) are parasites on salmonid fish and a density-dependent constraint to the sustainable farming of salmonids in open net pens. To control the parasites, fish farmers in Norway are required to count the number of salmon lice in different developmental stages on a subset of the fish each week. Furthermore, they must ensure that the number of adult female lice per fish does not increase beyond a specified threshold level. Here we present a model that may assist farmers in the salmon lice management. The model can predict the numbers of salmon lice in different developmental stages in each cage in a farm one to two weeks ahead. Input variables are current-week lice counts, a lice infestation pressure index, sea temperature, mean weight of the fish and presence or absence of wrasses (family Labridae) as cleaner fish. Count data for three parasitic stage groups (adult females, other motiles and sessile) are analysed jointly in one statistical model. The model predicted a large part of the variance, e.g. 50 % of the farm-level variance in adult female lice two weeks ahead. At farm-level, but not at cage-level, the numbers of other motile and sessile lice were, however, similarly well predicted by assuming "next week is the same as this week". The model also quantifies uncertainty and shows what range of outcomes is likely given the observations to that date. By using this model as decision support, fish farmers may more accurately assess the risk of exceeding lice limits.

Relative contributions of climate and grazing to forage supply in the Yellow River source area.

Grassland ecosystems, critical for ecosystem services like forage supply, face threats from climate change and grazing pressure. This study investigates the spatiotemporal dynamics of forage supply and grazing intensity in the Yellow River Source Area (YRSA) from 2000 to 2020, focusing on the relative contributions of climate factors and grazing. Our result revealed that forage supply exhibited a southeast-to-northwest decline and increased slightly overall, with variability among grassland types. Using a Livestock Carrying Pressure Index (LCPI), which incorporating seasonal grazing practices and supplementary feeding, we found that grazing intensity showed spatial heterogeneity, with moderate grazing pressure (1.5<LCPI<2.5) to heavy grazing pressure (LCPI>2.5) in the northeast, and understocked (LCPI<0.9) in central and southern regions. Precipitation was identified as the dominant factor positively influencing forage supply in northern and western YRSA, while grazing intensity negatively affected forage supply in most area. We further quantified the relative contributions of these factors, revealing that precipitation played the most significant role in the north and west, while grazing intensity was the primary driver in specific central and southern areas. Grazing intensity dominates 42.4% of grasslands, surpassing precipitation (40.7%) and temperature (16.9%). These findings underscore the need for climate-adaptive grazing management strategies to optimize forage production and safeguard the YRSA's ecological functions.

A novel imaging-based method to estimate left ventricular filling pressure

Abstract Background There is a clinical need in heart failure diagnostics to have a non-invasive measure of left ventricular (LV) filling pressure. Echocardiographic parameters may be used to differentiate between normal and elevated left ventricular (LV) filling pressure, but do not provide a quantitative estimate of the filling pressure. Purpose To establish a non-invasive method for estimating LV filling pressure and construction of the LV diastolic pressure curve. Methods Retrospective study in 100 patients with suspected coronary artery disease. Ground truth filling pressure (i.e. LV pre-atrial contraction pressure, which is shown to approximate mean left atrial pressure) was measured by LV micromanometer-tipped catheters. Non-invasive filling pressure was estimated as the sum of minimum LV pressure (minPLV) and the maximum early-diastolic atrio-ventricular pressure difference (∆PA-V), as shown in Figure 1. MinPLV was estimated by a regression model trained in 81 patients, which included an estimate of the time constant of τ (Figure 1) and echocardiographic and demographic parameters. ∆PA-V was computed by a simplified Navier-Stokes momentum conservation equation. Accuracy of filling pressure estimate was evaluated in a test cohort of 19 patients. Results The strongest predictor of minPLV was τ (R=0.71) followed by LA reservoir strain (R=0.65), LV systolic pressure (R=0.23) and body mass index (R=0.37), all of them independent predictors. There was good agreement between estimated and measured τ (Bias -0.0069s and limits of agreement &amp;lt;0.0195s). When combining estimated τ and the three other predictors in a regression model, there was good agreement between estimated and measured minPLV: Bias -0.5 mmHg, limits of agreement &amp;lt;1.9 mmHg (±2SD). Estimated LV filling pressure also showed good agreement with measured values: Bias 0.0 mmHg, limits of agreement &amp;lt;3.1 mmHg, shown in Figure 2. The diastolic pressure curve was estimated with good accuracy (diastolic meanPLV had bias and limits of agreement were respectively 0.2 and &amp;lt;3.2mmHg). Conclusions The proposed non-invasive method estimated LV filling pressure with good accuracy in a population with coronary artery disease. The method also allowed approximation of the LV diastolic pressure curve. The method needs validation in larger populations and in other phenotypes. Method to calculate LV filling pressure LV filling pressure (pre-A) agreement

Prognosis and clinical features according to types of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Abstract Introduction Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCMP) is a condition characterized by hypertrophy of the myocardium, which can be classified into types based on the location of the hypertrophy. Among these, the most common type is the group with septal hypertrophy. However, prognosis and clinical features according to the type are not well known. Method This study was conducted on 137 patients with HCMP from March 2016 to August 2023. Their echocardiographic findings and demographic features were retrospectively collected, and Single photon emission computed tomography(SPECT) and clinical outcomes were also analyzed. The types of HCMP were classified based on Helmy's classification: basal septal hypertrophy alone (Type I), hypertrophy of the septum and adjacent segments sparing the apex (Type II), apical hypertrophy with hypertrophy of other segments (Type III), and apical hypertrophy alone (Type IV). Additionally, the clinical outcomes, including mortality and cardiovascular hospitalization rates, were analyzed by dividing them into Type I and other types (II~IV). Results The prevalence of type I, II, III, and IV was 23.3% (n = 32), 0% (n = 0), 30.6% (n = 42) and 46% (n = 63). The patients were divided into two groups as septal HCMP (Group I) and non septal HCMP (Group II), with more patients in Group II (n=105, 76.6%) than in Group I (n=35, 23.3%). Mean age, systolic blood pressure, heart rate and body mass index were similar between two groups. In the subgroup analysis of echocardiographic parameter, left ventricular mass (LVM) and relative wall thickness (RWT) were significantly lower in Type IV compared to the other types. In contrast, there was no significant difference between Type I and Type III. In the strain analysis, the global strain values of Type III were significantly lower. (Type I vs. Type III vs. Type IV; -14.7 ± 3.7 vs. -11.1 ± 3.0 vs. -14.2 ± 4.0; p&amp;lt;0.01). Analysis of LV perfusion scores using SPECT showed that cardiac perfusion during stress compared to rest was significantly more impaired in Type III than Type I (p=0.03). In terms of clinical outcomes, mortality was higher in the order of Type I, III, and IV. However, there was no significant difference between Type I and Type III compared to Type IV. Regarding hospitalization, there were no significant differences between the types. Conclusion Patients with non-septal type HCMP accounted for a significant proportion of all HCMP cases. Non-septal types showed differences in echocardiographic parameters and perfusion compared to the septal type. Although the septal type is known to have a worse prognosis, this study did not find a significant difference in hospitalization rates. Further research is warranted.

HEMODYNAMIC PERFORMANCE OF THREE FLOW DIVERTING STENTS FOR TREATMENT OF ABDOMINAL AORTIC ANEURYSM BASED ON A SIMPLIFIED PATIENT-SPECIFIC MODEL: A COMPARISON STUDY

In order to avoid aneurysm rupture, flow-diverting stents are deployed. This research presents a simplified patient-specific abdominal aortic model to test and assess the effects of three different not-covered flow-diverting stents (NCFDS): WALLSTENT™ is a commercially available NCFDS, while STENT BS and STENT PFS are numerically designed NCFDSs. Flow characteristics in abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) were studied using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) techniques on each stent before and after the procedure. We computed and compared the estimated flow structure, pressure, and wall shear stress (WSS) related indices between the three NCFDSs; these are crucial factors for evaluating aneurysm occlusion and rupture. The minimum estimated flow, pressure, and time average wall shear stress (TAWSS) and the maximum oscillatory shear index (OSI) and endothelial cell action potential (ECAP) are associated with using STENT PFS. Therefore, it may contribute to establishing a thrombus within the aneurysm sac and aneurysm shrinkage.

Interactions between DASH-style diet and ADIPOQ and ARL15 genes polymorphisms on blood pressure and central obesity in Iranian adults

This study aimed to investigate the interactions between the Dietary approaches to stop hypertension (DASH) and the rs1501299 and rs6450176 SNPs in terms of cardiometabolic risk factors. This cross-sectional study was conducted on 387 adults (20–70 years old) residing in Yazd, Iran. The participants were selected from participants in the recruitment phase of the Yazd Health Study (YaHS) which is a population-based cohort of 9,962 adults. The genotypes of rs1501299 and rs6450176 SNPs were determined using the restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) method. Unlike for the G allele carriers of rs1501299, high adherence to the DASH dietary pattern was related to the lower diastolic blood pressure (DBP; P-interaction = 0.014) and systolic blood pressure (SBP; P-interaction = 0.051) in the participants with TT genotype. Moreover, in individuals with the AA genotype of rs6450176 SNP, adherence to this diet was associated with lower SBP (P-interaction = 0.012), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR; P-interaction = 0.026) and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR; P-interaction = 0.040), while in G allele carriers, the mean of these items was greater in individuals with high adherence to the DASH diet. The results suggest that following the DASH diet may be related to lower blood pressure and central obesity indices only in individuals with TT genotype of rs1501299 and AA genotype of rs6450176, respectively, whereas it can be associated with higher WHR and WHtR in G allele carriers of rs6450176.

Development of Intelligent Application for Diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Disease in Pregnant Women

Glucose intolerance during pregnancy or in women with reduced glucose tolerance after pregnancy termination is known as gestational diabetes mellitus. One of the main reasons pregnant women die is gestational diabetes mellitus (DMG). One of two factors can lead to diabetes: either insulin resistance (the body does not fully respond to insulin) or an autoimmune reaction (the body's defense system assaults the cells that make insulin). If there is an increase in both the 2-hour postprandial and fasting blood glucose levels between weeks 24 and 28 of pregnancy, DMG illness is manually diagnosed. Blood pressure and body mass index calculations are part of the physical examination in the early stages of pregnancy. Analyzing risk variables such age, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, prior history of gestational diabetes, family history of diabetes mellitus, and history of giving birth to infants weighing more than 4,000 grams (macrosomia) is essential during the anamnesis. Doctors also evaluate the results of the examination. Developing a machine learning model to identify early gestational diabetes mellitus (DMG) in expectant mothers is the aim of this study. Artificial Neural Network (ANN) Backpropagation is the technique employed. Prior to being incorporated into the JST model, the dataset is cleaned and normalized. The optimal model for diagnosis is obtained by processing and testing the JST model. 94% accuracy is the resultant accuracy.

In vitro assessment of oral fluid aspiration by various high speed air turbine dental handpieces.

The control of aspiration contamination of dental handpiece (DHP) is crucial for mitigating cross-infection risks associated with dental chair units (DCU) and DHP. However, the anti-aspiration capabilities of DHPs are predominantly asserted by manufacturers, with an absence of standardized methodologies to assess these claims. To evaluate the anti-aspiration performance and the mechanism of DHPs to improve cross-infection prevention strategies. Five different manufacturers of DHPs included SMART torque S609C (Group SMART), TWINPOWER TURBINE 4H PAR-4HUEX (Group TWIN), T3 mini-Midwest (Group T3), TU (Group TU) and disposable DHP (Group Hpdove) were selected. The aspiration pressure index was compared by the changes in liquid levels. The colony counts of Streptococcus mutans in connecting tubes of the DCU were compared under model F (full DHP head immersion) and model H (half dental bur immersion). Group TWIN exhibited zero aspiration pressure index, indicating zero aspiration pressure. Under model H, the bacterial counts were observed in the exhaust tubes of four groups (P<0.001), excluding group TWIN. The bacterial counts in exhaust tubes under model H were significantly lower than those under model F (P≤0.003). The TWIN DHP demonstrating the best anti-aspiration capability with lowest aspiration pressure index and the least bacterial counts in the exhaust tubes under model H. Half dental bur immersion reduces the risk of cross infection than full DHP head immersion. The anti-aspiration analysis model developed in this study could serve as the basis for an ISO to benchmark DHP manufacturer claims and help control the cross-infection risks associated with DCU.

Imaging-based method to quantify left ventricular diastolic pressures.

To establish an imaging-based method to quantify left ventricular (LV) diastolic pressures. In 115 patients suspected of coronary artery disease, LV pressure was measured by micromanometers and images by echocardiography. LV filling pressure was measured as LV pre-atrial contraction pressure (pre-A PLV). Based on previous observations we hypothesized that pre-A PLV approximates the sum of minimum PLV and maximum transmitral pressure difference. Parameters used for pressure estimates included LV volumes and strain, left atrial strain, mitral flow velocities, systolic arterial cuff pressure and body mass index. Minimum PLV was estimated by predictors identified in a derivative cohort (n=81). Mitral pressure difference was calculated by a simplified Navier-Stokes equation. Accuracy of estimates of minimum PLV, pre-A PLV and end-diastolic PLV were investigated in a testing cohort (n=19). Patient-specific LV diastolic pressure curves were constructed by adjusting a reference curve according to pressure estimates at key diastolic events.There was good agreement between estimated and measured pre-A PLV: Bias 0.0, limits of agreement <3.1 mmHg (±1.96SD). Estimated minimum PLV and end-diastolic PLV also showed good agreement with measured pressures. Furthermore, there was good agreement between measured and estimated LV diastolic pressure curves, quantified as mean LV diastolic pressure: Bias 0.2, limits of agreement <3.2 mmHg. The proposed non-invasive method provided estimates of minimum PLV, pre-A PLV and end-diastolic PLV, each reflecting different features of diastolic function. Additionally, it provided an estimate of the LV diastolic pressure curve. Validation in larger populations with different phenotypes is necessary to determine the validity of the method in clinical practice.

Clinical Comorbidities and Videourodynamic Characteristics of Dysfunctional Voiding in Women.

Purpose: The current study aimed to investigate the clinical comorbidities and urodynamic characteristics of a large cohort of women with dysfunctional voiding (DV) validated on a videourodynamic study (VUDS). Methods: Women who presented with VUDS-confirmed DV from 1998 to 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. Data on clinical symptoms, VUDS findings, and medical comorbidities including medical illness and previous surgical history were recorded and examined. Patients with DV were subgrouped according to age, presence of medical comorbidity, and different urodynamic parameters. The urodynamic parameters and treatment outcomes among the different subgroups were examined. Results: In total, 216 women were retrospectively analyzed. Among them, 188 (88.3%) presented with storage symptoms and 130 (61.0%) with voiding symptoms. Regarding outcomes, 48 (22.2%) patients had successful treatment outcomes; 76 (35.2%), improved outcomes; and 92 (42.6%), failed outcomes. Then, 150 (69.0%) patients presented with urodynamic DO. Patients with terminal DO experienced a significantly higher incidence of hypertension (56.8%), diabetes mellitus (37.9%), and latent central nervous system diseases (38.9%) than those with non-DO or phasic DO. Patients with phasic DO had a significantly higher detrusor pressure (Pdet) and bladder outlet obstruction index than those with non-DO and terminal DO. Patients with hypertension or those with a Pdet ≥ 35 cmH2O had high rates of successful treatment outcomes. Conclusions: DV is significantly associated with older age and a higher incidence of central nervous system diseases, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus in women. Patients with phasic DO had a high Pdet and BOO, and patients with hypertension or those with Pdet ≥35 cm H2O who received urethral sphincter treatment had a better treatment outcome.

Impact of orthokeratology and low-dose atropine on corneal biomechanics and myopia progression in children.

This study evaluated the effects of orthokeratology and 0.01% atropine on corneal biomechanical properties (CBPs) and myopia progression in children, focusing on their association with axial length (AL) changes and treatment outcomes. In this 1-year prospective study, 53 children (aged 8-17 years) were enrolled, with 30 undergoing orthokeratology and 23 receiving 0.01% atropine. CBP parameters, including the Corvis Biomechanical Index (CBI), central corneal thickness (CCT), biomechanically corrected intraocular pressure (bIOP) and stress-strain index (SSI), were assessed at baseline and during follow-ups at 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months. The orthokeratology group was further stratified into good and poor responders based on early myopia reduction. The orthokeratology group exhibited a significant increase in CBI over time, particularly among good responders, while CCT, bIOP and SSI remained stable. In contrast, no significant changes in CBPs were observed in the atropine group. AL elongation showed no significant correlation with CBP changes in either group. The orthokeratology group achieved superior control of myopia progression compared to the atropine group at 12 months, with poor responders exhibiting better long-term AL control. Both orthokeratology and 0.01% atropine were effective in controlling myopia. While atropine had no impact on CBPs, the increase in CBI with orthokeratology may predict early treatment outcomes. However, the initial response to orthokeratology did not guarantee long-term effectiveness, highlighting the need for individualised treatment monitoring.

Evaluating the Performance Characteristics of Pressure Monitoring Systems.

Measuring interface pressure is currently used in a variety of settings, e.g., automotive or clinical, to evaluate pressure distribution at support surface interfaces. Commercial pressure sensing arrays are employed to monitor and visualise these pressure distributions to aid mattress or cushion selection by assessing their ability to redistribute the pressure magnitudes over vulnerable areas, e.g., the buttock. These technologies vary in configurations and measurement principles, with manufacturers supplying calibration and specifications. This study evaluated the performance of six commercial pressure sensing arrays, which differed in sensor type, configuration, and spatial resolution. Each system was subjected to mechanical compression loading on a standard cushion using a dual hemispherical 'buttock shaped' standard indenter. Pressure parameters were estimated, e.g., contact area, peak pressure index, from the sensing arrays and a comparison between measured and predicted pressure values was performed. The results showed that both contact area and pressures are influenced by the spatial resolution, with higher values associated with systems with the highest resolution. A high variability between systems was observed in the measured pressure, with sensor type driving difference between the observed and the predicted pressures. Further research is needed to establish standards and performance analysis of these technologies.