Volume Gain Research Articles

COVID-19 and Global Supply Chain Configuration: Economic and Emissions Impacts of Australia-China Trade Disruptions.

Economic shocks from COVID-19, coupled with ongoing US-China tensions, have raised debates around supply chain (or global value chain) organisation, with China at the centre of the storm. However, quantitative studies that consider the global and economy-wide impacts of rerouting supply chains are limited. This study examines the economic and emissions impacts of reorganising supply chains, using Australia-China trade as an example. It augments the Hypothetical Extraction Method by replacing traditional Input-Output analysis with a Computable General Equilibrium analysis. The estimation results demonstrate that in both exports and imports, a trade embargo between Australia and China – despite being compensated for by alternative supply chains—will cause gross domestic production losses and emissions increases for both countries and the world overall. Moreover, even though all other economies gain from the markets left by China, many of them incur overall gross domestic production losses and emission increases. The finding that the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and India may also suffer from an Australia-China trade embargo, despite a gain in trade volume, suggests that no country should add fuel to the fire. The results suggest that countries need to defend a rules-based trading regime and jointly address supply chain challenges.

MONETARY CONTROL OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE NATIONAL ECONOMY OF UKRAINE IN MODERN CONDITIONS

The paper considers the monetary control in Ukraine beginning from the time of transition to the inflation targeting mode. It is stated that the NBU views the inflation targeting method as a monetary control mode aimed at the establishment and achievement of the target inflation index in the medium-term expectation. It is aimed at financial soundness which leads to the stable and low inflation. As a result, the price stability creates favourable conditions for ensuring economic growth and the employment level rise in the country. Thus, the main factors which assure these conditions are: national currency strengthening, favourable environment for making investments and consumer solutions, low interest rates, security of savings and income of the population against monetary depreciation. The key changes in the monetary control methods are defined that influence the process of inflation targeting in Ukraine, namely: the key method of the monetary strategy is the interest rate; implementation of the dynamic exchange rate; prediction and analysis of the financial risks becomes the basic analytical instruments; widespread application of meetings with the representatives of business, press-releases, media briefings, etc. As a result, the NBU has altered its communication policy coming from the expert audience of the financial market to the mass audience. The basic monetary indices of the national economy of Ukraine in the period from 2014 to 2020 are classified and analyzed. The regression analysis of the monetary policy impact upon the social and economic development from 2008 to 2020 and from 2016 to 2020 was made. A direct dependence of the GDP on the inflation level, cash in circulation, international foreign currency and gold reserve, aggregate volume of credit provided to business entities; linear dependence of the end consumer on bank loans, inflation, cash in circulation and cash in bank deposits as well as the exchange rate of the US dollar for the period from 2008 to 2020 were identified. During 2016-2020 a direct dependence of the real GDP on the gain in the individual consumption volume, M3 money supply, gain in the private consumption and the consumption reduced to the dollar exchange rate and the gain in bank loans extended to non-financial corporations was revealed and described. Keywords: monetary control, economic policy, monetary market, inflation targeting, social and economic development.

Application of a MOGA Algorithm and ANN in the Optimization of Apple Drying and Rehydration Processes

The aim of the study was to estimate the optimal parameters of apple drying and the rehydration temperature of the obtained dried apple. Conducting both processes under such conditions is aimed at restoring the rehydrated apple to the raw material properties. The obtained drying parameters allow the drying process to be carried out in a short drying time (DT) and at low energy consumption (EC). The effect of air velocity (vd), drying temperature (Td), characteristic dimension (CD), and rehydration temperature (Tr) on rehydrated apple quality was studied. Quality parameters of the rehydrated apple as: color change (CC), mass gain ratio (MG), solid loss ratio (SL), volume gain ratio (VG) together with DT and EC were taken into consideration. The artificial neural network was used for modeling of rehydrated apple quality parameters, DT, and EC. A multi-objective genetic algorithm was developed in order to optimize parameters of the drying and rehydration processes. The simultaneous minimization of CC, SL, DT, EC, and the maximization of MG and VG were considered with the following drying and rehydration processes parameters: Td: 50–70 °C, vd: 0.01–2 m/s, Tr: 20–70 °C. The best solution has been found at drying temperature 56.1 °C, air velocity 1.3 m/s, characteristic dimension 2.0 mm, and rehydration temperature 59.2 °C. This apple drying and rehydration resulted in MG = 3.51, SL = 0.57, VG = 4.77, CC = 11.2, DT = 5.4 h, EC = 159.8 GJ/kg. The parameters of apple drying and rehydration processes can be recommended for the industry application.

Wet agglomeration of barley flour-wheat semolina blends into couscous: Effects on rheological, culinary and sensory properties

Wheat semolina was replaced by different percentages of barley flour (25, 50, 75 and 100%) for the preparation of artisanal couscous. The rheological behavior was evaluated using a Caleva® mixer torque rheometer. The dry couscous produced were characterized by determining the water content, the agglomeration yield, the particle size, and the aerated and tapped densities. The culinary and sensory qualities were also assessed by determination of cooking losses, swelling, indices of mass and volume gain, and cooking time. The incorporation of barley flour caused weak cohesive forces between the agglomerated particles (mean torque of 0.802 N m during barley flour wet agglomeration) and increased the optimal hydration rate. The agglomeration yield of barley flour was very low (74.24%), but its mixture with wheat semolina improved yields. The incorporation of barley flour led to significant increase of swelling, weight and volume gain indexes, but decreased the cooking time and couscous becomes more sensitive to heat treatments. Apart from color and flavor, the stickiness, firmness and overall acceptability of couscous were not affected.

A Prospective Randomized Study of Lateral Brow-Eyelid Complex Volume after Internal Browpexy Using Three-Dimensional Stereophotogrammetry.

Background: A full lateral brow-eyelid complex may help rejuvenate and feminize the face. Objectives: To compare periorbital volume change of patients as measured by three-dimensional (3D) stereophotogrammetry before and after blepharoplasty with or without internal browpexy sutures. Methods: This is a prospective randomized controlled study of 124 eyelids of 62 adult female patients who underwent cosmetic upper eyelid blepharoplasty by a single surgeon. Subjects were randomized to blepharoplasty alone (control) or blepharoplasty with an adjunctive "brassiere suture" internal browpexy (intervention). An observer masked to the intervention measured the brow-eyelid volume using standardized images obtained with a 3D camera, before and after surgery. The minimum follow-up was 6 months postoperatively. Results: Sixty eyelids (30 patients) were treated with upper blepharoplasty alone and 64 eyelids (32 patients) had blepharoplasty plus internal browpexy. The mean volume gain was 0.85 mL in the internal browpexy intervention group and 0.19 mL in the control group. The volume increased in all patients receiving browpexy and this change was greater than after blepharoplasty alone (p < 0.05). The mean follow-up time was 16.8 months (range 6-24 months). Conclusions: Adjunctive internal browpexy during blepharoplasty was associated with increased volume of the lateral brow-eyelid complex.

A quantitative assessment of silicone and PTFE-based stamp techniques for restoring occlusal anatomy using resin-based composites

ObjectivesPublications on stamp techniques for placing resin-based composite (RBC) restorations consist mainly of case studies. Furthermore, comparative studies are rare and no longer relevant to the materials tested today. Thus, two general techniques were investigated in this study.Materials and methodsStandardized occlusion class I cavities were prepared in twenty-eight extracted caries-free wisdom teeth with unimpaired occlusal surfaces and restored with the RBC material Grandio®. Light curing of the final layer was performed either after removal of the stamp isolated with PTFE tape or by leaving a stamp made of transparent polysiloxane in place. CEREC scans of the RBC restorations placed (follow-up) were superimposed on scans of the unimpaired occlusal surface (baseline) and quantitatively analyzed with the software OraCheck with regard to volume change and gain or loss of layer thickness in six sectional planes.ResultsAssessing the excess material, there was no difference (p = 0.31) between the silicone technique (0.26 mm ± 0.02) and the PTFE technique (0.22 mm ± 0.02 mm). Nevertheless, the loss of tooth substance was significantly greater (p < 0.001) with the silicone technique (−0.29 mm ± 0.02 mm) than with the PTFE technique (−0.15 mm ± 0.02 mm).ConclusionsWith the PTFE stamp technique, less healthy tooth structure was removed during the finishing procedure and the stamp was more dimensionally stable.Clinical relevanceThe study shows the advantages and disadvantages of the investigated stamp techniques and helps the practitioner to choose an appropriate technique.

Automating coastal cliff erosion measurements from large-area LiDAR datasets in California, USA

Quantifying coastal cliff erosion is critical for improved predictions of coastal change and coastal management. However, few studies have been conducted at a scale (>100 km) and resolution (~1 m) sufficient to constrain regional change. Here, we quantified cliff erosion for 866 km of the California coastline using airborne LiDAR data collected in 2009–2011 and 2016. A semi-automated method was used to map cliff faces. Negative (volume loss) and positive (volume gain) change objects were created by grouping adjacent cells using vertical and areal change thresholds and surface optical signatures. We assessed the performance of five machine learning algorithms to separate erosion and deposition from other changes within the cliff face, notably vegetation loss and growth, and found that discriminant analysis performed best. After applying the classification method to the entire cliff change dataset, the results were visually inspected for quality control, producing a final dataset comprised of 45,699 erosion and 1728 deposition objects. The net volume loss from 2009–2011 to 2016 was 1.24 × 107 m3, equivalent to an erosion rate of 2.47 m3 yr−1 per meter of coastline, and an average cliff retreat rate of 0.06 m yr−1. Eroded volumes ranged from 6.43 m3 to 7.52 × 105 m3 and fit a power-law frequency distribution (β = 0.80; r2 = 0.99). Over this study period, 7% of eroded material remained on the cliff face. Cliff retreat rates varied spatially with the highest rates in Humboldt County (0.18 m yr−1) and the lowest in Orange County (0.003 m yr−1).

Pancreatic volumes in immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced diabetes.

2644 Background: Immune checkpoint inhibitor-mediated insulin dependent diabetes (ICI-DM) is a rare and irreversible adverse event often presenting with life-threatening diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Pancreatic volume changes have been studied in classic Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes as a surrogate for functional β-cell mass. In this study, we investigate longitudinal changes in pancreatic volumes in patients who develop ICI-DM. Methods: Among patients with ICI-DM seen at our institution between 2014 and 2020, 20 patients who had serial CT scans of the abdomen and pelvis before and after ICI DM diagnosis were identified for inclusion in this study. Demographic data and clinical variables were obtained from the electronic medical record. Weight-adjusted pancreatic volumes were calculated from CT scans at three time points. The most recent CT scan prior to ICI initiation was used as baseline, the CT scan immediately prior to ICI DM diagnosis was used as a midpoint, and the most recent CT scan prior to the end of the study period was used as the final time point for comparison. Results: Median age was 63 years old (range 35 to 83). Renal cell carcinoma and melanoma were the most common cancer types. Male gender predominated (80%). 18/20 patients were on a PD-1 inhibitor with the remaining two on a PD-L1 inhibitor. After initiation of ICI therapy there was a variable response in pancreatic volumes prior to the diagnosis of ICI-DM with 20% patients experiencing a volume loss of &gt; 10% and 25% experiencing a volume gain of &gt; 10%. Volume loss nor volume gain prior to diabetes diagnosis was associated with presentation with DKA. 9/13 (69%) of patients who had pancreatic enzymes checked at diagnosis of ICI-DM had elevated levels. Pancreatic atrophy with a median volume loss of 41% was seen in all patients at a median of 14.9 months (range 3-77 months) after ICI-DM diagnosis. Most had more than 20% volume loss from baseline to most recent scan with no correlation in degree of volume loss with the time interval. There was no evidence of pancreatic ductal dilation, increased pancreatic fat nor any changes consistent with chronic pancreatitis. Conclusions: This study shows a variable response in pancreatic volumes after initiation of ICI in patients who progress to developing ICI-DM, though most had a significant decline in volume after the diagnosis of ICI-DM with long-term pancreatic atrophy. As β-cell mass is thought to comprise 1-2% of the pancreas, these findings may suggest both endocrine and exocrine compartment changes because of ICI-DM, though exocrine dysfunction has not been clinically described in this patient population. As these patients receive frequent imaging during treatment, fluctuations in pancreatic volumes with new or worsening hyperglycemia may portend the onset of ICI-DM and clinicians should have a low threshold to screen for this diagnosis as many will present with life-threatening DKA.

Bile Salt and FGF19 Signaling in the Early Phase of Human Liver Regeneration.

The involvement of bile salt–fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF19) signaling in human liver regeneration (LR) is not well studied. Therefore, we studied aspects of bile salt–FGF19 signaling shortly after liver resection in patients. We compared plasma bile salt and FGF19 levels in arterial, portal and hepatic venous blood, calculated venous‐arterial differences (ΔVA), and determined hepatic transcript levels on two intra‐operative time points: before (< 1 hour) and immediately after (> 2‐3 hours) liver resection (i.e., following surgery). Postoperative bile salt and FGF19 levels were assessed on days 1, 2, and 3. LR was studied by computed tomography (CT)–liver volumetry. Following surgery, the liver, arterial, and portal bile salt levels were elevated (P < 0.05). Furthermore, an increased amount of bile salts was released in portal blood and extracted by the remnant liver (P < 0.05). Postoperatively, bile salt levels were elevated from day 1 onward (P < 0.001). For FGF19, intra‐operative or postoperative changes of ΔVA or plasma levels were not observed. The bile salt–homeostatic regulator farnesoid X receptor (FXR) was markedly up‐regulated following surgery (P < 0.001). Cell‐cycle re‐entry priming factors (interleukin 6 [IL‐6], signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 [STAT3], and cJUN) were up‐regulated following surgery and were positively correlated with FXR expression (P < 0.05). Postoperative hyperbilirubinemia was preceded by postsurgery low FXR and high Na+/Taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide (NTCP) expression in the remnant liver coupled with higher liver bile salt content (P < 0.05). Finally, bile salt levels on postoperative day 1 were an independent predictor of LR (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Systemic, portal, and liver bile salt levels are rapidly elevated after liver resection. Postoperative bile salts were positively associated with liver volume gain. In the studied time frame, FGF19 levels remained unaltered, suggesting that FGF19 plays a minor role in human LR. These findings indicate a more relevant role of bile salts in human LR.

Therapeutic Potentials of Dimeric Cys25PTH(1–34) Peptide for Osteoporosis and Fracture Healing of the Bones- Buy One, Get One Free

Objective: The extraordinarily high bone densities identified in the hypoparathyroidism patients originating from PTH R25C mutation suggested the possibility that this modified protein has unique biologic effects and contributes to the gain of bone volume. Interestingly, western blot of cell lysates stably transfected with PTH R25C construct revealed that Cys25PTH(1–84) formed a dimer, presumably due to disulfide bonding of the cysteine residues. This study aims to study the characteristics of Cys25PTH(1–34) dimeric peptide (Dimer) both in vitro and in vivo for potential therapeutic application of Dimer as a novel anabolic agent. Methods: Identity of the chemically synthesized Dimer was confirmed by its molecular weight and purity using MS and HPLC, respectively. Basic characteristics, for example, ability to bind to PTHR and cAMP production were investigated using a variety of cells. In addition, the ligand-receptor internalization was investigated using TMR tagged Dimer. In vivo characteristics, such as calcemic and phosphatemic responses, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, were assessed in CD1 mice. The osteoanabolic effects of Dimer were assessed using a fracture-healing model, a calvarial-injection model and an OVX mouse model. Results:In vivo study showed that Dimer has similar calcemic and phosphatemic responses to PTH(1–34; WT). In cell assays, Dimer showed a similar cAMP production but slightly lower binding affinity compared to WT. Dimer-receptor complex was internalized into the cells. Surprisingly, Dimer showed a potent anabolic effect in the fracture-healing model in mice measured as the callus volume fraction by microCT. We also observed a comparable anabolic effect of Dimer in calvarial-injection model and OVX model. Conclusions: Dimeric Cys25PTH(1–84) peptide might play a substantial role in the high bone mass in hypoparathyroidism patients, originating from the PTH R25C mutation. This may be translated into the development of potential therapeutic modality for the treatment of osteoporosis and fracture healing using Dimer.

Evaluation of a Minimally Invasive Alveolar Ridge Reconstruction Approach in Postextraction Dehiscence Defects: A Case Series.

This study evaluated a panel of clinical, dimensional, volumetric, implant-related, histomorphometric, and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) following reconstruction of dehiscence defects in extraction sockets with a minimally invasive technique using particulate bone allograft and a nonresorbable dense polytetrafluoroethylene (dPTFE) membrane. Subjects (n = 17) presenting severe buccal dehiscence defects at the time of single-rooted tooth extraction participated in the study. The mean vertical dimension of the dehiscence defects at baseline was 5.76 ± 4.23 mm. Subjects were followed up at 1, 2, 5, and 20 weeks postoperatively. The dPTFE barrier was gently removed at 5 weeks. CBCT and intraoral scans were obtained at baseline and at 20 weeks. A bone core biopsy sample was harvested at 24 weeks (before implant placement). Linear radiographic measurements revealed a mean increase in buccal bone height from baseline to 20 weeks (5.66 ± 5.1 mm; P < .0001). A total alveolar bone volume gain of 9.12% was observed. Although approximately half of the sites required some degree of additional bone augmentation at the time of implant placement, all implants were placed in a favorable restorative position with adequate primary stability. Histomorphometric analyses revealed a mean mineralized tissue area of 31.04% ± 15.22%, and the proportions of remaining allograft material and nonmineralized tissue were 16.23% ± 10.63% and 52.71% ± 9.53%, respectively. All implants survived up to 12 months after placement. PROMs were compatible with minimal discomfort at different postoperative stages and a high level of overall satisfaction upon study completion. This study demonstrated that the reconstructive procedure employed was successful and predictable in treating large, postextraction alveolar ridge deformities to optimize tooth replacement therapy with implant-supported prostheses.

Is reverse frontal cranioplasty eligible for the correction of both the forehead deformities and the intracranial hypertension in craniosynostosis? Comparison of the preoperative and postoperative intracranial volumes

BackgroundThis study aimed to describe the surgical technique of reverse frontal cranioplasty (RFC), the aesthetical modification as well as the modification of intracranial volume (ICV) to assess its potential eligibility for the treatment of the intracranial hypertension (IH). Materials and methodsA retrospective monocentric study included the patients with a history of craniosynostosis with a forehead deformity who underwent RFC. A subjective outcome questionnaire (SOQ) was conducted with each patient or their parent to determine their level of satisfaction after RFC. Pre- and postoperative computed tomography (CT) scans were analyzed and compared to investigate the ICV change and fronto-nasal angle. ResultsEleven patients were included in the study (6 female and 5 male) with a mean age of 10.9 years old (range 3–23 years) and an average follow-up of 4.5 years (1–11 years). All patients responded to the questionnaire with a high level of overall satisfaction (mean 9.1/10). The mean preoperative FNA was 134° ± 5° while the mean postoperative angle was 126.4° ± 6, corresponding to an average decrease of 7.6° (95% CI, 4.0–11.2°; p < 0.001). One patient with preoperative IH had a clinical recurrence during the follow-up. The ICV was significantly higher after the surgery (p < 0.0001), with an average increase of 3.2% (95% CI, 2.3–4.1%). ConclusionReverse (RFC) is a useful technique for the correction of the frontal malformations related to craniosynostosis, such as a sloping forehead and/or a lack of the supraorbital projection. Regarding the limited gain of intracranial volume (ICV), it should not be used alone as primary cranial expansion surgery for craniosynostosis with intracranial hypertension (IH).

Quantitative and qualitative comparison of morphometric outcomes after endoscopic and conventional correction of sagittal and metopic craniosynostosis versus control groups.

Surgical correction for sagittal and metopic craniosynostosis (SCS and MCS) aims to alter the abnormal cranial shape to resemble that of the normal population. The achieved correction can be assessed by morphometric parameters. The purpose of the presented study was to compare craniometric parameters of control groups to those same parameters after endoscopic and conventional (open) correction. The authors identified 4 groups of children undergoing surgical treatment for either SCS or MCS, with either endoscopic (SCS, n = 17; MCS, n = 16) or conventional (SCS, n = 29; MCS, n = 18) correction. In addition, normal control groups of nonaffected children who were 6 (n = 30) and 24 (n = 18) months old were evaluated. For all groups, several craniometric indices calculated from 3D photographs were compared for quantitative analysis. For qualitative comparison, averages of all 3D photographs were generated for all groups and superimposed to visualize relative changes. For children with SCS, the cephalic index and coronal circumference index significantly differed preoperatively from those of the 6-month normal controls. The respective postoperative values were similar to those of the 24-month normal controls after both endoscopic and conventional correction. Similarly, for children with MCS, indices for circumference and diagonal dimension that were significantly different preoperatively became nonsignificantly different from those of 24-month normal controls after both endoscopic and conventional correction. The qualitative evaluation of superimposed average 3D head shapes confirmed changes toward normal controls after both treatment modalities for SCS and MCS. However, in SCS, the volume gain, especially in the biparietal area, was more noticeable after endoscopic correction, while in MCS, relative volume gain of the bilateral forehead was more pronounced after conventional correction. The average 3D head shapes matched more homogeneously with the average of normal controls after endoscopic correction for SCS and after conventional correction for MCS. This quantitative analysis confirms that the performed surgical techniques of endoscopic and conventional correction of SCS and MCS alter the head shape toward those of normal controls. However, in a qualitative evaluation, the average head shape after endoscopic technique for SCS and conventional correction for MCS appears to be closer to that of normal controls than after the alternative technique. This study reports on morphometric outcomes after craniosynostosis correction. Only an assessment of the whole multiplicity of outcome parameters based on multicenter data acquisition will allow conclusions of superiority of one surgical technique.

CLINICAL APPLICATIONS FOR ORAL BONE REGENERATION WITH MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS FROM ADIPOSE TISSUE: WHAT ARE THE LEVELS OF SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE?

<h3>Background/Objective</h3> The adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) are considered a promising source due the capacity of pluripotent characteristics, including osteogenic properties. The aim of this critical literature review was to investigate the evidence of the clinical applicability of ASCs in order to improve bone regeneration surgeries for the treatment of clinical bone atrophy in the regions of the maxilla and mandible. <h3>Methods</h3> This literature review was prepared in accordance with the PRISMA statement and based on the proposed focused question. Specific descriptors as "mesenchymal stem cells", "bone grafting" and "cell therapy" were organized according to the PICO strategy. A literature search was performed for PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Cochrane Library databases. <h3>Results</h3> A total of 9 potentially eligible clinical trials were included for this critical and analytical literature review. The application of ASCs was performed in maxillary surgeries (such as, maxillary sinus grafting/MSG and atrophic premaxilla/APMx) or for mandible surgery (atrophic posterior mandible/APMd). In general, regenerative surgeries were used for bone gain for posterior oral rehabilitation with dental implants. The protocols applied to obtain ASCs were performed according to the source from abdominal adipose tissue (AT) or from intra-oral buccal fat pad (BFP). The complementary findings through in vitro analysis demonstrated that AT and BFP were expressed and identified with mesenchymal surface markers for characterization of the ASCs. For MSG, when AT-ASCs were associated with alloplastic, allogeneic and/or xenogeneic grafts improved an effective and safe regenerative method. Biopsies from grafted areas showed a formation of new vital bone, demonstrating a pronounced cellular potential of ASCs. Likewise, for cases of bone regeneration for APMx or APMd, the BFP-ASCs when associated with autogenous and/or xenogeneic grafts, demonstrated a gain in bone volume through histological and radiographic analysis. <h3>Conclusions</h3> Although favorable outcomes were reported in many studies, it can be concluded that the innovative approach with ASCs when associated and applied with different grafts for bone regeneration in region of bone atrophy seems to be benefit for bone repair process. However, discussions of protocol and ethical issues must be considered in future clinical trials and effective clinical application in surgeries for oral rehabilitation.

Effect of exercise training in rats exposed to chronic hypoxia: Application for Monge's disease.

Physical exercise may improve hematological conditions in high altitude dwellers suffering from Chronic Mountain Sickness (CMS), in reducing hemoglobin concentration. Therefore, the present study aimed to characterize the effects of 1‐month exercise training session in a model of rats exposed to chronic hypoxia. Four groups of male rats were studied: normoxic sedentary (NS, n = 8), normoxic training (NT, n = 8), hypoxic sedentary (HS, n = 8), and hypoxic training group (HT, n = 8). Hypoxic groups were exposed to hypobaric hypoxia for one month (PB =433 Torr). Training intensity was progressively increased from a running speed of 10.4 to 17.8 m/min. Chronic hypoxia led to an increase in hematocrit (HCT) associated with a decrease in plasma volume despite an increase in water intake. Training led to a reduction in HCT (p < 0.01), with a non‐significant increase in plasma volume and weight gain. Hypoxia and training had inhibitory effects on haptoglobin (NS group: 379 ± 92; HT: 239 ± 34 µg/ml, p < 0.01). Chronic hypoxia and exercise training increased SpO2 measured after acute hypoxic exposure. Training blunted the decrease in V˙ O2 peak, time of exhaustion, and maximum speed associated with chronic exposure to hypoxia. Chronic hypoxia led to a right ventricular hypertrophy, which was not corrected by 1‐month exercise training. Altogether, by decreasing hematocrit, reducing body weight, and limiting performance decrease, training in hypoxia may have a beneficial effect on excessive erythropoiesis in chronic hypoxia. Therefore, regular exercise training might be beneficial to avoid worsening of CMS symptoms in high altitude dwellers and to improve their quality of life.

Three\u2010dimensional quantitative measurement of buccal augmented tissue with modified coronally advanced tunnel technique and de\u2010epithelialized gingival graft: a prospective case series

BackgroundThe aim of this study is to investigate three-dimensional quantitative analysis of buccal augmented tissue alterations after surgery using a modified coronally advanced tunnel (MCAT) technique combined with a de-epithelialized gingival graft (DGG) within 1 year post-op, based on intraoral scanning.Methods25 Cairo class I gingival recession defects were treated using an MCAT technique with DGG. Digital impressions were taken using an intraoral scanner at baseline, 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 1 year after the surgery. Three-dimensional quantitative measurements within 1 year were analyzed for buccal augmented tissue after surgery, including postoperative gingival height gain (GHG), area gain (GAG), volume gain (GVG) and mean thickness (GMT) of region of interest, as well as the tissue thickness change at 1, 2, and 3 mm (TTC1, TTC2, and TTC3) apical to the cemento-enamel junction.ResultsPostoperative GHG, GAG, GVG, and GMT were distinctly encountered at 2 weeks post-op, then gradually decreased. At 1 year, GHG, GAG, GVG, and GMT were 2.211 ± 0.717 mm, 7.614 ± 2.511 mm2, 7.690 ± 4.335 mm3 and 0.965 ± 0.372 mm, respectively. Significant decreases were recorded between 6 weeks and 1 year in terms of GHG, GAG, and GVG. The GMT was sustained after 6 weeks with an increase of nearly 1 mm at 1 year. TTC1 and TTC2 yielded thicker tissue change than TTC3.ConclusionsThree-dimensional quantitative measurements taken via intraoral scanning showed that buccal augmented tissue acquired via MCAT with DGG tends to be stable after 3 months post-op. Digital measurement can be applied in periodontal plastic surgery as a clinically feasible and non-invasive evaluation method for achieving volumetric outcomes. Trial registrationThis study was retrospectively registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR1900026768. Date of registration: 21/10/2019.

Induction of Contralateral Hepatic Hypertrophy by Unilobar Yttrium-90 Transarterial Radioembolization versus Portal Vein Embolization: An Animal Study

PurposeTo compare hepatic hypertrophy in the contralateral lobe achieved by unilobar transarterial radioembolization (TARE) versus portal vein embolization (PVE) in a swine model. MethodsAfter an escalation study to determine the optimum dose to achieve hypertrophy after unilobar TARE in 4 animals, 16 pigs were treated by TARE (yttrium-90 resin microspheres) or PVE (lipiodol/n-butyl cyanoacrylate). Liver volume was calculated based on CT before treatment and during 6 months of follow-up. Independent t-test (P < .05) was used to compare hypertrophy. The relationship between hypertrophy after TARE and absorbed dose was calculated using the Pearson correlation. ResultsAt 2 and 4 weeks after treatment, a significantly higher degree of future liver remnant hypertrophy was observed in the PVE group versus the TARE group, with a median volume gain of 31% (interquartile range [IQR]: 16%–66%) for PVE versus 23% (IQR: 6%–36%) for TARE after 2 weeks and 51% (IQR: 47%–69%) for PVE versus 29% (IQR: 20%–50%) for TARE after 4 weeks. After 3 and 6 months, hypertrophy converged without a statistically significant difference, with a volume gain of 103% (IQR: 86%–119%) for PVE versus 82% (IQR: 70%–96%) for TARE after 3 months and 115% (IQR: 70%–46%) for PVE versus 86% (IQR: 58%–111%) for TARE after 6 months. A strong correlation was observed between radiation dose (median 162 Gy, IQR: 139–175) and hypertrophy. ConclusionsPVE resulted in rapid hypertrophy within 1 month of the procedure, followed by a plateau, whereas TARE resulted in comparable hypertrophy by 3–6 months. TARE-induced hypertrophy correlated with radiation absorbed dose.

Modeling mass transfer in brine salting of chickpea

Salted chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is increasingly used in snack production and in home cooking by soaking in brines. Order to achieve better quality and higher nutrient content, it is important to model and understand the mass transfer processes during this operation. In this work, brine salting of chickpea was studied at 1, 5 and 20% salt concentrations, at temperatures of 25, 50, 75 and 100 °C. Water uptake, salt uptake and non-ash solids loss over time were modeled using the Peleg, Fickian diffusion and anomalous diffusion models. Salt content of brines significantly affects the changes occurring during chickpea soaking. At 1% salt content, the volume gain is larger than when soaking in water, while at 5 and 20% swelling decreases, with a lower solids’ loss. The fit of each model to experimental data was assessed using the Coefficient of Determination, the Root Mean Square Error, the Akaike Information Criterion, and the errors of the fitted parameters of each model. The results show that the Fick model is at least as good as the Peleg model in predicting the mass transfer of each considered component, but the influence of the equilibrium parameter is more clear on the Peleg model, resulting in better forecasts of the kinetic parameter. The anomalous diffusion model was not adequate to fit neither the water, the salt nor the solids loss, resulting in large errors in both the diffusion coefficient and the equilibrium parameter.

Development of a synorogenic composite sill at deep structural levels of a continental arc (Odenwald, Germany). Part 1: Sederholm-type emplacement portrayed by contact melt in shrinkage cracks

We present geochronological, thermobarometric and computertomographic data from a composite sill exposed in the Weschnitz pluton of the Variscan Odenwald. The wall rock consists of quartzmonzodiorite, which intruded at deep structural levels (P = ca. 0.50 GPa, ca. 18 km depth) in a continental arc setting. Zircons and titanites of the quartzmonzodiorite yielded similar UPb ages at 344.3 ± 0.6 and 343.2 ± 2.1 Ma, respectively, reflecting fast initial cooling (≥76 °C/m.y.) until the solidus was attained at ca. 680 °C. Under these conditions, the quartzmonzodiorite was cut by a spessartite sill, which yielded a UPb titanite age at 342.0 ± 1.0 Ma. The short period between wall rock and sill emplacement (≤3.9 m.y.) suggests that both are genetically related.The quartzmonzodiorite situated adjacent to the spessartite sill is enriched in quartz and plagioclase and depleted in hornblende. As geothermobarometric data of these felsic parts yielded T = ca. 710 °C and P = 0.42 GPa (ca. 15 km depth), they are interpreted as contact melt, which invaded into shrinkage cracks of the cooling sill resulting in thin felsic veins. The migration of contact melt from the wall rock into the shrinkage cracks was suction-induced because of volume gain by contact melting in the wall rock and volume loss by cooling of the sill.The formation of such Sederholm-type composite veins seems to be very fast. Titanites of the felsic veins yielded a UPb age at 341.8 ± 1.5 Ma, which is the same like that of the sill. Moreover, results of thermal modelling indicate a maximum period of 4 months between sill emplacement and the time when both the quartzmonzodiorite and the sill had attained the ambient temperature. The modelling further explains, why Sederholm-type veins, described from several places around the world, are restricted to deep crustal levels.

Avaliação tomográfica e histológica da técnica de levantamento de seio maxilar e instalação de implantes dentários sem utilização de biomaterial com acompanhamento de 36 meses : Relato de caso

Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar quantitativo e qualitativamente a formação óssea periimplantar na cirurgia de elevação do seio maxilar sem utilização de biomaterial por meio de análise tomográfica e histológica. Paciente atendido no Instituto Latino Americano de Ensino e Pesquisa Odontológica (ILAPEO) para reabilitação da região posterior de maxila bilateral com escasso volume ósseo, foi realizado então levantamento de seio e instalação de implantes sem utilização de biomaterial. O acompanhamento pós operatório foi conduzido através de condições clínicas e tomográficas, no pós-operatório imediato, 3, 6, 9 e 36 meses. Aos 9 meses pós operatório, com o auxilio de uma trefina de 2 mm foi removido uma biópsia local para realização de uma análise histológica. Pode-se observar tomográficamente, que a maior densidade encontrada nos períodos avaliados, foi aos 36 meses (vestibular 1766,5 e palatina 1716,75), ou seja, após aplicação de carga funcional. A análise histológica mostrou que aos 9 meses a biópsia removida pela trefina era compostos de 52% de tecido ósseo e 48% de tecido conjuntivo, apresentando uma citoarquitetura óssea compatível de fato com osso maduro com poucas áreas de osso imaturo. Em conclusão, a técnica de elevação do seio maxilar com colocação imediata do implante, sem o uso de biomateriais quando bem indicada, pode ser realizada com sucesso obtendo ganho de volume ósseo periimplantar com qualidade.