Reduction Principle Research Articles

A HET-CAM based vascularized intestine tumor model as a screening platform for nano-formulated photosensitizers

The development of new tumor models for anticancer drug screening is a challenge for preclinical research. Conventional cell-based in vitro models such as 2D monolayer cell cultures or 3D spheroids allow an initial assessment of the efficacy of drugs but they have a limited prediction to the in vivo effectiveness. In contrast, in vivo animal models capture the complexity of systemic distribution, accumulation, and degradation of drugs, but visualization of the individual steps is challenging and extracting quantitative data is usually very difficult. Furthermore, there are a variety of ethical concerns related to animal tests. In accordance with the 3Rs principles of Replacement, Reduction and Refinement, alternative test systems should therefore be developed and applied in preclinical research. The Hen's egg test on chorioallantoic membrane (HET-CAM) model provides the generation of vascularized tumor spheroids and therefore, is an ideal test platform which can be used as an intermediate step between in vitro analysis and preclinical evaluation in vivo. We developed a HET-CAM based intestine tumor model to investigate the accumulation and efficacy of nano-formulated photosensitizers. Irradiation is necessary to activate the phototoxic effect. Due to the good accessibility of the vascularized tumor on the CAM, we have developed a laser irradiation setup to simulate an in vivo endoscopic irradiation. The study presents quantitative as well as qualitative data on the accumulation and efficacy of the nano-formulated photosensitizers in a vascularized intestine tumor model.

REHABILITATION OF PATIENT WITH TIBIA-FIBULA FRACTURE

An orthopedic surgeon may find compound fractures of tibia-fibula challenging to treat. The degree of joint motion and the adequacy of reduction are the two factors that determine whether or not these fractures can be treated successfully. In many patients, open surgical treatment of comminuted tibial pilon fractures is associated with significant complications. Indirect reduction and stabilization of fractures using a circular external fixator can be a useful way of achieving adequate joint restoration, and it uses closed reduction principles to realign disturbed bones and joint structures. In this report, we describe about the effects of early rehabilitation compound grade IIIB fracture tibia, fibula of right side. The patient co-operation and motivation to return to daily functional activities also prove to very crucial for the rehabilitation process. The defect in bone is usually a result of high velocity trauma or a sudden impact. In present case open reduction and external fixation for distal one-third of tibia and fibula on right side was carried out followed by the rehabilitation protocol. Outcome measure used to check for the pain was NPRS. The patient morale and goal-oriented rehabilitation protocol progressed him to return to his functional activities.

A reduction principle for Fourier coefficients of automorphic forms

We consider a special class of unipotent periods for automorphic forms on a finite cover of a reductive adelic group mathbf {G}(mathbb {A}_mathbb {K}), which we refer to as Fourier coefficients associated to the data of a ‘Whittaker pair’. We describe a quasi-order on Fourier coefficients, and an algorithm that gives an explicit formula for any coefficient in terms of integrals and sums involving higher coefficients. The maximal elements for the quasi-order are ‘Levi-distinguished’ Fourier coefficients, which correspond to taking the constant term along the unipotent radical of a parabolic subgroup, and then further taking a Fourier coefficient with respect to a {mathbb K}-distinguished nilpotent orbit in the Levi quotient. Thus one can express any Fourier coefficient, including the form itself, in terms of higher Levi-distinguished coefficients. In companion papers we use this result to determine explicit Fourier expansions of minimal and next-to-minimal automorphic forms on split simply-laced reductive groups, and to obtain Euler product decompositions of certain Fourier coefficients.

Stress state of the Shangri-La−Bangda section of Yunnan−Tibet Railway and its implication for route alignment

A multisource comprehensive analysis method based on geomechanical trace analysis, focal mechanism solution, and measured data is utilized to analyze the direction of in situ stress field of the Shangri-La−Bangda railway. Based on the Hoek−Brown strength criterion and modified Sheorey theory, the rock mass strength parameters and in situ stress magnitude are estimated and predicted. The results show that the directions of maximum horizontal principal stress are N0°W−N40°W in the Shangri-La−Deqin stress district and N60°E−N80°E in the Mangkang−Bangda stress district. The maximum and minimum horizontal principal stresses ranges are 25.93−28.80 MPa and 15.85−17.60 MPa when the buried depth is about 1000 m, and 50.77−52.50 MPa and 31.03−32.09 MPa when the buried depth is about 2000 m. By combining the comprehensive analysis of in situ stress state, and the principle of disaster prevention and reduction, suggestions on railway alignment are presented.

Optimization of several surface treatment processes for alleviating fretting damage of a locking pin

The operational safety and reliability of a variable gauge train are affected by the anti-fretting wear performance of the locking mechanism. The main purpose of this study is to optimize the surface treatment process for a locking pin material under actual service conditions to alleviate fretting damage. Based on the two basic principles of surface strengthening and friction reduction, a substrate (AISI 4135 steel) surface was treated by laser quenching (LQ), plasma nitriding (PN), and bonded MoS2 coating. Systematic fretting wear tests were conducted, and the wear behavior and damage mechanism of various treated surfaces were comprehensively investigated. The results indicate that the wear resistances of the LQ- and PN-treated surfaces were significantly improved, and their main wear mechanisms were abrasive wear, delamination, and oxidation wear. The MoS2 coating exhibits the lowest friction coefficient and energy dissipation due to its self-lubricating property, but it incurs the highest wear rate and failure in the form of plastic deformation. Furthermore, the rough compound layer with a high hardness on the PN-treated surface is conducive to the formation and maintenance of the third-body contact at the fretting interface, consequently resulting in a significant reduction in wear. An optimal surface treatment process for alleviating fretting damage of the locking pin is recommended via comprehensive evaluation, which provides a reference for the anti-fretting protection of related mechanical components.

Aesthetic breast surgery: putting in context-a narrative review.

This review article summarises the latest evidence for commonly undertaken procedures in aesthetic breast surgery with a focus on key principles of breast augmentation, reduction, and mastopexy. The paper also outlines various approaches and controversies as well as complications such as breast implant associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) and breast implant illness (BII) which are increasingly being recognised and becoming a challenge to manage. Changing trends of aesthetic breast surgery over the decades has warranted a continuous evolution of this field. The ability to deliver safe and appropriate care is dependent upon sound reconstructive principles and proper training. The lack of uniformity in either is a cause of concern. The impact of social media and changing perception of body image can also no longer be overlooked in the field of aesthetics and reconstruction. Review of literature including recent journals, textbook chapters, online databases like PubMed, and current government and surgical society guidelines. Breast reconstruction is based on sound surgical principles and it is imperative to follow these for the practice of this speciality. There are two important issues that revolve around this aspect of surgery. First relates to the urgent need to invest time and effort in improving regulations and outcomes in the cosmetic surgery industry. Second, it is crucial to promote and prioritize the development and training in this field as the principles of aesthetic breast surgery underpins oncoplastic breast surgery for management of cancer.

Innovative design of modern mortise and tenon structure under the concept of green reduction

In the furniture industry, some traditional Chinese mortise and tenon joints are not suitable for the current requirements for carbon reduction and environmental protection of furniture products. This article aims to explore new ideas and new methods of modern mortise and tenon structure design. The reduction principle in the green design concept is introduced for the furniture modern mortise and tenon structure design. Based on modern furniture, a systematic analysis of the modern mortise and tenon structure design is carried out. Additionally, this review discusses the method of applying the reduction principle in modern tenon and tenon structure design in the context of green design. The development status and trend of modern mortise and tenon structure design is summarized and an innovative design practice of modern mortise and tenon structure is carried out. The combination of green design and furniture design has important practical significance in a modern context.

Innovative design of modern mortise and tenon structure under the concept of green reduction

In the furniture industry, some traditional Chinese mortise and tenon joints are not suitable for the current requirements for carbon reduction and environmental protection of furniture products. This article aims to explore new ideas and new methods of modern mortise and tenon structure design. The reduction principle in the green design concept is introduced for the furniture modern mortise and tenon structure design. Based on modern furniture, a systematic analysis of the modern mortise and tenon structure design is carried out. Additionally, this review discusses the method of applying the reduction principle in modern tenon and tenon structure design in the context of green design. The development status and trend of modern mortise and tenon structure design is summarized and an innovative design practice of modern mortise and tenon structure is carried out. The combination of green design and furniture design has important practical significance in a modern context.

Low barrier perinatal psychiatric care for patients with substance use disorder: meeting patients across the perinatal continuum where they are

Pregnant and postpartum patients with substance use disorders (SUD) often have other co-occurring mental health disorders. Complications of substance use and mental health conditions, such as overdose and suicide, are a significant contributor to maternal morbidity and mortality. For individuals dually diagnosed with SUD and other mental health disorders, the perinatal period can be both a motivating and a vulnerable period for care. Barriers to optimal care include, but are not limited to, lack of screening, lack of referrals for care, a limited number of psychiatric providers available to care for pregnant patients, and stigma around mental health and addiction care in pregnancy. In this review, we discuss approaches to low-barrier perinatal psychiatric care for women with SUD to promote engagement in care. We review (1) appropriate psychiatric assessment and diagnostic work-up; (2) treatment planning incorporating shared-decision making, non-punitive and culturally sensitive patient-centred care, and principles of harm reduction with a focus on psychopharmacology, and (3) the benefits of an integrated and collaborative multidisciplinary care model for this subpopulation of vulnerable patients.

Drug Screening, Oral Bioavailability and Regulatory Aspects: A Need for Human Organoids.

The intestinal epithelium critically contributes to oral bioavailability of drugs by constituting an important site for drug absorption and metabolism. In particular, intestinal epithelial cells (IEC) actively serve as gatekeepers of drug and nutrient availability. IECs’ transport processes and metabolism are interrelated to the whole-body metabolic state and represent potential points of origin as well as therapeutic targets for a variety of diseases. Human intestinal organoids represent a superior model of the intestinal epithelium, overcoming limitations of currently used in vitro models. Caco-2 cells or rodent explant models face drawbacks such as their cancer and non-human origin, respectively, but are commonly used to study intestinal nutrient absorption, enterocyte metabolism and oral drug bioavailability, despite poorly correlative data. In contrast, intestinal organoids allow investigating distinct aspects of bioavailability including spatial resolution of transport, inter-individual differences and high-throughput screenings. As several countries have already developed strategic roadmaps to phase out animal experiments for regulatory purposes, intestinal organoid culture and organ-on-a-chip technology in combination with in silico approaches are roads to go in the preclinical and regulatory setup and will aid implementing the 3Rs (reduction, refinement and replacement) principle in basic science.

Three-state switching cell boost converter using H-inf controller

Abstract This paper presents the modeling and control of a non-minimum phase dc-dc boost converter based on the three - state switching cells. In any double stage grid-connected system the converter forms an interface between the photovoltaic source and the inverter. As the control and regulation of the converter output is a vital part of penetration of renewable to grid, therefore, this paper had attempted the control of a converter topology that can reduce the current stress across its switches. But the system becomes highly unstable and complex which has been validated by predicting the limit cycle with a describing function. The Controller design is implemented after reducing the complexity of the system using the Model order reduction principle. H-inf controller being robust in nature is applied for stable and regulated output.

\u201cOPTIONS-DC\u201d, a feasible discharge planning conference to expand infection treatment options for people with substance use disorder

BackgroundSerious bacterial infections associated with substance use often result in long hospitalizations, premature discharges, and high costs. Out-of-hospital treatment options in people with substance use disorder (SUD) are often limited.MethodsWe describe a novel multidisciplinary and interprofessional care conference, “OPTIONS-DC,” to identify treatment options agreeable to both patients and providers using the frameworks of harm reduction and patient-centered care. We retrospectively reviewed charts of patients who had an OPTIONS-DC between February 2018 and July 2019 and used content analysis to understand the conferences’ effects on antibiotic treatment options.ResultsFifty patients had an OPTIONS-DC during the study window. Forty-two (84%) had some intravenous (IV) substance use and 44 (88%) had an active substance use disorder. Participants’ primary substances included opioids (65%) or methamphetamines (28%). On average, conferences lasted 28 min. OPTIONS-DC providers recommended out-of-hospital antibiotic treatment options for 34 (68%) of patients. OPTIONS-DC recommended first line therapy of IV antibiotics for 35 (70%) patients, long-acting injectable antibiotics for 14 (28%), and oral therapy for 1 (2%). 35 (70%) patients that had an OPTIONS-DC completed an antibiotic course and 6 (12%) left the hospital prematurely. OPTIONS-DC expanded treatment options by exposing and contextualizing SUD, psychosocial risk and protective factors; incorporating patient preferences; and allowing providers to tailor antibiotic and SUD recommendations.ConclusionsOPTIONS-DC is a feasible intervention that allows providers to integrate principles of harm reduction and offer patient-centered choices among patients needing prolonged antibiotic treatment.

Application of Double Strength Reduction Factor Method in the Stability Analysis of Rock Slopes

The cohesion c and internal friction angle φ play different roles in the progressive failure process of the slope, which indicates that the reduction factors kc and kφ should be different in the calculation. Based on this, the program of double strength reduction factor method was compiled with FISH language, in order to study its application in the rock slopes under different distributions of weak interlayer, and the following conclusions were drawn: (1) the plastic zone calculated by double strength reduction factor method is generally distributed in the weak interlayer, which is basically consistent with the calculation result of the traditional method; (2) the degree to which c and φ play a role is related to the inclination angle of the bottom sliding surface of the unstable block θ. If θ < 45°, φ will play a greater role. If θ ≥ 45°, c will play a greater role; (3) according to the “Pan’s principle,” the matching reduction principle of “kc > kφ” can be adopted when θ < 45°, and the matching reduction principle of “kc < kφ” can be adopted when θ ≥ 45°; (4) the definition of the comprehensive safety factor “K2” in the text is more suitable for the application of double strength reduction factor method in the stability analysis of rock slopes. The applicability of the above conclusions is verified by an actual engineering.

Battling Over the Harm Reduction Logic in Addiction Services: The Role of Emotions

In this paper, we investigate how actors in the addictions field have been battling over the introduction of the harm reduction logic – principles of addiction services that aim to reduce the adverse effects of drug use while individuals with addictions continue to use drugs. In particular, we give attention to how emotions have played a role in this continuing battle. Through an inductive process, we identified highly emotional dimensions of the harm reduction logic, and focused our analysis on the emotion-based mechanisms employed by proponents and opponents of the harm reduction logic. We observed that during different time periods, principles of harm reduction were alternately strengthened or diminished. Our findings highlight the difficulties in introducing novel approaches to critical health concerns, such as addictions that have significant social implications. Theoretically, we contribute to the literature on institutional logics by focusing on the emotion-based aspect of certain logics, and by explaining how actors can strategically use emotions to strengthen or weaken particular approaches to healthcare concerns.

A Critical Review on Black Phosphorus-Based Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction Application.

Energy shortages and greenhouse effects are two unavoidable problems that need to be solved. Photocatalytically converting CO2 into a series of valuable chemicals is considered to be an effective means of solving the above dilemmas. Among these photocatalysts, the utilization of black phosphorus for CO2 photocatalytic reduction deserves a lightspot not only for its excellent catalytic activity through different reaction routes, but also on account of the great preponderance of this relatively cheap catalyst. Herein, this review offers a summary of the recent advances in synthesis, structure, properties, and application for CO2 photocatalytic reduction. In detail, the review starts from the basic principle of CO2 photocatalytic reduction. In the following section, the synthesis, structure, and properties, as well as CO2 photocatalytic reduction process of black phosphorus-based photocatalyst are discussed. In addition, some possible influencing factors and reaction mechanism are also summarized. Finally, a summary and the possible future perspectives of black phosphorus-based photocatalyst for CO2 reduction are established.

In Vitro Studies on Nasal Formulations of Nanostructured Lipid Carriers (NLC) and Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLN).

The nasal route has been used for many years for the local treatment of nasal diseases. More recently, this route has been gaining momentum, due to the possibility of targeting the central nervous system (CNS) from the nasal cavity, avoiding the blood−brain barrier (BBB). In this area, the use of lipid nanoparticles, such as nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) and solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN), in nasal formulations has shown promising outcomes on a wide array of indications such as brain diseases, including epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and gliomas. Herein, the state of the art of the most recent literature available on in vitro studies with nasal formulations of lipid nanoparticles is discussed. Specific in vitro cell culture models are needed to assess the cytotoxicity of nasal formulations and to explore the underlying mechanism(s) of drug transport and absorption across the nasal mucosa. In addition, different studies with 3D nasal casts are reported, showing their ability to predict the drug deposition in the nasal cavity and evaluating the factors that interfere in this process, such as nasal cavity area, type of administration device and angle of application, inspiratory flow, presence of mucoadhesive agents, among others. Notwithstanding, they do not preclude the use of confirmatory in vivo studies, a significant impact on the 3R (replacement, reduction and refinement) principle within the scope of animal experiments is expected. The use of 3D nasal casts to test nasal formulations of lipid nanoparticles is still totally unexplored, to the authors best knowledge, thus constituting a wide open field of research.

Large Farm Animals Used for Research Purposes: A Survey on Purchase, Housing and Hygiene Management.

Simple SummaryThe use of farm animals, especially in biomedical research, has increased in recent years. As clear recommendations for the purchase, housing and health monitoring of these animals (sheep, goat, cattle and pigs) are still missing, many institutes have developed their own strategies and protocols to face the challenges associated with the use of farm animals. This may influence the comparability of research results and increase data variances, thus increasing animal use that contradicts the obligation to apply the 3Rs principle required in Directive 2010/63 EU and our national animal welfare law. Therefore, this survey aimed to define the current state of the art in research institutes working with farm animals in order to develop recommendations for the purchase, housing and hygiene management of farm animals used for research purposes; to refine the work with farm animals; and to reduce variability and, therefore, the number of animals required.Background: Farm animals (FAs) are frequently used in biomedical research. Recommendations for the purchase, housing and health monitoring of these animals (sheep, goats, cattle and pigs) are still missing, and many institutes have developed their own strategies and protocols to face the challenges associated with the use of farm animals. This may influence the comparability of research results and increase data variances, thus increasing animal use that contradicts the obligation to apply the 3Rs principle of reduction, refinement and replacement required in Directive 2010/63 EU and the German animal protection law. Methods: A survey was conducted to define the current state of the art in research institutes working with pigs, and large and small ruminants. Results: The results of the survey clearly show that there are no uniform procedures regarding the purchase, housing and hygiene management of farm animals contrary to small laboratory animals. The facilities make purpose-bound decisions according to their own needs and individual work instructions and implement their own useful protocols to improve and maintain the health of the animals. Conclusion: This survey was the first step to filling the gaps and identifying the status quo and practical applied measures regarding the purchase and hygiene monitoring of FAs in order to improve animal welfare and scientific validity.

Anti-balling Mechanism on the Non-smooth Surface of Bionic Polycrystalline diamond compact Drill Bits

Polycrystalline diamond compact (PDC) bit balling is one of the major factors that limits the penetration rate of drilling and causes bit failure in soft stratum. In order to solve the PDC bit balling problem, in this research we designs typical bionic non-smooth surfaces and analyzes the anti-adhesion mechanisms. Next, the non-smoothness characterization is extended from a two-dimensional to three-dimensional in which the area ratio and the width ratio are used to characterize lateral and longitudinal non-smoothness. Then, a comparative experiment between typical non-smooth surfaces and the smooth surface condition is carried out. The results show that the scale-like non-smooth surface has the best anti-adhesion effect and that longitudinal non-smoothness has a greater influence on mud block adhesion than lateral non-smoothness. The research results also show that after applying the principle of anti-adhesion and resistance reduction for the non-smooth surface of soil animals to the design of the flow channel of a PDC drill bit, the novel bionic anti-balling PDC bit can effectively avoid the problem of bit balling.

Treatment of Anterior Mandibular Fractures by Lag Screw - A Systematic Review

Different techniques that meet the basic principles of open reduction and internal fixation with either plates and screws or lag screws may treat anterior mandibular fractures (AMFs). This review article aims at assessing the effectiveness of lag screw fixation in the treatment of AMFs. Using the following electronic databases, a systematic electronic search was carried out: PubMed, Elsevier, Google Scholar, and Wolters Kluwer. The following search words were used in single or in combination: AMFs, fixation, and lag screw. Any randomized or quasi-randomized controlled trials, controlled clinical trials, or retrospective studies regarding the lag screw fixation in the management of AMFs were included. Studies of more than 10 years were not included in this study. This study was reviewed in compliance with the PRISMA guidelines. A total of 13 articles were included in the qualitative synthesis of this review. The majority of the studies were comparative studies between the lag screw and the mini plate. In lag screw groups, the duration of surgery, postoperative radiographic distance, and biting ability reported better outcomes than in miniplate groups. A sensitive, simplistic, accurate, and relatively inexpensive approach to internal fixation for AMFs is the lag screw fixation. The Lag screw provides an effective and rapid rigid internal fixation in the treatment of AMFs. Although it is a technique-sensitive procedure for fixation of AMFs, it permits the skilled surgeon to achieve the most favorable stability and functional rehabilitation with the minimum amount of materials.

Service providers\u2019 use of harm reduction approaches in working with older adults experiencing abuse: a qualitative study

BackgroundAlthough abuse experienced by older adults is common and expected to increase, disclosure, reporting and interventions to prevent or mitigate abuse remain sub-optimal. Incorporating principles of harm reduction into service provision has been advocated as a strategy that may improve outcomes for this population. This paper explores whether and how these principles of harm reduction were employed by professionals who provide services to older adults experiencing abuse.MethodsThematic analysis of qualitative interviews with 23 professionals providing services to older adults experiencing abuse across three Western provinces of Canada was conducted. Key principles of harm reduction (humanism, incrementalism, individualism, pragmatism, autonomy, and accountability without termination) were used as a framework for organizing the themes.ResultsOur analysis illustrated a clear congruence between each of the six harm reduction principles and the approaches reflected in the narratives of professionals who provided services to this population, although these were not explicitly articulated as harm reduction by participants. Each of the harm reduction principles was evident in service providers’ description of their professional practice with abused older adults, although some principles were emphasized differentially at different phases of the disclosure and intervention process. Enactment of a humanistic approach formed the basis of the therapeutic client-provider relationships with abused older adults, with incremental, individual, and pragmatic principles also apparent in the discourse of participants. While respect for the older adult’s autonomy figured prominently in the data, concerns about the welfare of the older adults with questionable capacity were expressed when they did not engage with services or chose to return to a high-risk environment. Accountability without termination of the client-provider relationship was reflected in continuation of support regardless of the decisions made by the older adult experiencing abuse.ConclusionsHarm reduction approaches are evident in service providers’ accounts of working with older adults experiencing abuse. While further refinement of the operational definitions of harm reduction principles specific to their application with older adults is still required, this harm reduction framework aligns well with both the ethical imperatives and the practical realities of supporting older adults experiencing abuse.