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Impedance and voltage of monopolar currents are directly related. By replacing air with saline solution, a change in behavior of these currents are achieved in endoscopy, resulting in a desired coagulation effect. However, the underlying electrophysical mechanisms of this effect remain poorly explained. This investigation assessed the relationship between the electrical parameters and the surrounding environment for three high-voltage monopolar coagulation currents commonly used for therapeutic endoscopy. Six consecutive applications per setting and per environment were performed with dissection knife on porcine kidney. When transitioning from air to saline immersion, a 99% decrease in impedance was observed for all current settings tested (AirRange: 4400–8150 Ω, SalineRange: 64–71 Ω; p < 0.01 for all settings). This resulted in a 52-78% reduction in peak voltage (AirRange: 920–1165 V, SalineRange: 257–499 V; p < 0.01 for all settings), and a 237-2030% increase in power delivered (AirRange: 3–19 W, SalineRange: 50–117 W; p < 0.01 for all settings). The dramatic decrease in impedance results in a sharp reduction of voltage, explaining the coagulation effect observed when passing from air to saline-immersion therapeutic endoscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dynamic interactions between tumor endothelial cells (TECs) and the immune microenvironment play a critical role in the progression of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In general, endothelial cells exhibit diverse immunomodulatory properties, influencing immune cell recruitment, antigen presentation, and regulation of immune checkpoint expression. Understanding the multifaceted roles of TECs as well as assigning specific functional hallmarks to various TEC phenotypes offer new avenues for targeted development of therapeutic interventions, particularly in the context of advanced immunotherapy and anti-angiogenic treatments. This review provides insights into the complex interplay between TECs and the immune system in NSCLC including discussion of potential optimized therapeutic opportunities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrospinning and pressurized gyration are two widely adopted methods for polymeric fiber production, valued for their simplicity, versatility, and relatively low environmental impact. Despite its advantages, electrospinning has notable limitations, including low production efficiency and significant safety concerns. Pressurized gyration, however, offers greater productivity and a safer, more sustainable process, making it an excellent candidate for industrial scaling. To fully realize this potential, optimizing the pressurized gyration process is essential for enhancing efficiency and achieving sustainable large‐scale fiber production. In this study, the effects of vessel orifice height on the production rate and fiber morphology in pressurized gyration are explored. A series of experiments is conducted using a 15 wt.% polycaprolactone (PCL) solution, with vessels of identical diameter but differing orifice heights 7.5, 15, and 22.5 mm tested under pressures of 0, 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3 MPa, all at a constant rotational speed of 13 000 rpm. The 7.5 mm orifice height demonstrates the highest production rate under pressure while increasing orifice height led to finer fiber diameters, better alignment, and smaller beads. These findings underscore the importance of optimizing vessel design, along with process and solution parameters, for scaling up pressurized gyration fiber manufacturing to meet industrial demands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article describes a method for calculating the volume of a silver vessel "with a rosette" from the Maikop burial mound using a refined geometric model. It is concluded that the calculated volume is close to the upper limit of the volume of the large holes on the Pyatikhatki slab, and corresponds to the volume of the holes L11 and L12, which could serve to measure time between from 10 o'clock to 11 o'clock (10 a.m. - 11 a.m.) and from 11 o'clock to 12 o'clock (11 a.m. - 12 p.m.). Thus, the calculations using the refined model confirm the conclusion based on approximate calculations of the volume of the vessel body as a sphere, that the silver vessels from the Maykop kurgan could function as accumulative water clocks. And their volume corresponded to the volume of water for measuring one hour in the Mesopotamian metric tradition.

Tubular microfibers have recently attracted extensive interest for applications in tissue engineering. However, the fabrication of tubular fibers with intricate hierarchical structures remains a major challenge. Here, we present a novel one-step microfluidic spinning method to generate bio-inspired screwed conduits (BSCs). Based on the microfluidic rope-coiling effect, a viscous hydrogel precursor is first curved into a helix stream in the channel, and then consecutively packed as a hollow structured stream and gelated into a screwed conduit (SC) via ionic and covalent crosslinking. By taking advantage of the excellent fluid-controlling ability of microfluidics, various tubes with diverse structures are fabricated via simple control over fluid velocities and multiple microfluidic device designs. The perfusability and permeability results, as well as the encapsulation and culture of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), human pulmonary alveolar epithelial cells (HPAs), and myogenic cells (C2C12), demonstrate that these SCs have good perfusability and permeability and the ability to induce the formation of functional biostructures. These features support the uniqueness and potential applications of these BSCs as biomimetic blood vessels and bronchiole tissues in combination with tissue microstructures, with likely application possibilities in biomedical engineering.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is unsurpassed for its clinical and pathological hetherogeneity, but the biological determinants of this variability are unknown. HLA‐DRB1*15, the main genetic risk factor for MS, influences the severity and distribution of MS pathology. This study set out to unravel the molecular determinants of the heterogeneity of MS pathology in relation to HLA‐DRB1*15 status. Shotgun proteomics from a discovery cohort of MS spinal cord samples segregated by HLA‐DRB*15 status revealed overexpression of the extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, biglycan, decorin, and prolargin in HLA‐DRB*15‐positive cases, adding to established literature on a role of ECM proteins in MS pathology that has heretofore lacked systematic pathological validation. These findings informed a neuropathological characterisation of these proteins in a large autopsy cohort of 41 MS cases (18 HLA‐DRB1*15‐positive and 23 HLA‐DRB1*15‐negative), and seven non‐neurological controls on motor cortical, cervical and lumbar spinal cord tissue. Biglycan and decorin demonstrate a striking perivascular expression pattern in controls that is reduced in MS (−36.5%, p = 0.036 and − 24.7%, p = 0.039; respectively) in lesional and non‐lesional areas. A concomitant increase in diffuse parenchymal accumulation of biglycan and decorin is seen in MS (p = 0.015 and p = 0.001, respectively), particularly in HLA‐DRB1*15‐positive cases (p = 0.007 and p = 0.046, respectively). Prolargin shows a faint parenchymal pattern in controls that is markedly increased in MS cases where a perivascular deposition pattern is observed (motor cortex +97.5%, p = 0.001; cervical cord +49.1%, p = 0.016). Our findings point to ECM proteins and the vascular interface playing a central role in MS pathology within and outside the plaque area. As ECM proteins are known potent pro‐inflammatory molecules, their parenchymal accumulation may contribute to disease severity. This study brings to light novel factors that may contribute to the heterogeneity of the topographical variation of MS pathology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nuclear power continues to hold great promise in the green revolution, however public opinion regarding its deployment is mixed. A submersible nuclear power station concept is presented here that is expected to allay many concerns that are holding back the growth of nuclear power. This submersible can move under its own power during emergencies and routine maintenance. Being stationed at sea it is earthquake proof. In the case of a tsunami it could decouple from the coast and sail to a location several miles to deeper waters in less than 30 min. Furthermore, it could be built, commissioned, maintained, refueled and scrapped in a country like the UK. This makes it proliferation-proof, a key concern with the wider deployment of nuclear power. In the present evaluation the philosophy and the electric power generation capability of the submersible power station are investigated. This includes a pre-feasibility visualization of the design. An evaluation is carried out into fitting it in a submersible of a size similar to the largest existing nuclear submarines. These designs may enable it to deliver 0.6 to 1 GW of electrical power. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pediatric lower extremity vascular injury (PLEVI) is uncommon and the availability of granular data is sparse. This study evaluated the surgical management of PLEVIs between a Level I adult (ATC) vs pediatric (PTC) trauma center. Methods: We performed a retrospective review of PLEVIs (< 18 years) managed surgically between 01/2009–12/2022. Demographics and outcome data were obtained. Primary outcomes included amputation and fasciotomy rates. Secondary outcomes included type of vessel repair, mortality, and hospital length of stay. Results: Seventy-nine patients were identified, 41 at the ATC and 38 at the PTC, totaling 112 vessels injured. ATC patients were older (median years 16.0 vs 12.5) and almost exclusively (97.6% vs 29.0%) gunshot wounds. Vascular surgeons managed 50% of injuries at the ATC vs 73.7% at the PTC (p = 0.10). Amputations were uncommon and not significantly different between centers. Seventeen patients (44.7%) required fasciotomies at the PTC vs 21 (51.2%) at the ATC (p = 0.56). Rates of vessel repair, ligation, grafting, mortality, and hospital length of stay were not significantly different. Conclusions: PLEVI can be managed safely at ATCs and PTCs with acceptable outcomes. However, important nuances in patient triage and management need to be considered. Multi-institutional comprehensive datasets are needed. Level of Evidence: Level III. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Social Sciences Studies is the property of Social Sciences Studies and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

We hereby present a case of a 34-year-old male patient diagnosed with Behcet's disease where computed tomography revealed the presence of thrombosis and occlusion of the infrarenal aorta and bilateral renal arteries. Such a pattern of vascular involvement is an unusual and uncommon manifestation of Behcet disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose of reviewThe relationships between bone vasculature and bone microstructure and strength remain incompletely understood. Addressing this gap will require in vivo imaging capabilities. We describe the relevant vascular anatomy of compact bone, review current magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based techniques that allow in vivo assessment of intracortical vasculature, and finally present preliminary studies that apply these techniques to investigate changes in intracortical vessels in aging and disease.Recent findingsUltra-short echo time MRI (UTE MRI), dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI), and susceptibility-weighted MRI techniques are able to probe intracortical vasculature. Applied to patients with type 2 diabetes, DCE-MRI was able to find significantly larger intracortical vessels compared to nondiabetic controls. Using the same technique, a significantly larger number of smaller vessels was observed in patients with microvascular disease compared to those without. Preliminary data on perfusion MRI showed decreased cortical perfusion with age.SummaryDevelopment of in vivo techniques for intracortical vessel visualization and characterization will enable the exploration of interactions between the vascular and skeletal systems, and further our understanding of drivers of cortical pore expansion. As we investigate potential pathways of cortical pore expansion, appropriate treatment and prevention strategies will be clarified.

The brachiopods are sessile invertebrates with an unusual blood system, which consists of a long‐branched dorsal vessel. It is still unknown how blood circulates in this system. In the present study, for the first time we propose the circulation of blood in brachiopod Hemithiris psittacea based on morphological and experimental data. The main heart is located on the dorsal side of the stomach and divides the dorsal vessel into anterior and posterior parts. The anterior part enters the lophophore, where it gives off blind branches to each tentacle. The posterior part passes by the funnels of the nephridia and forms a blindly closed network in the gonads. We suggest that the circulation of blood includes three successive stages. During the first phase of systole of the main heart, blood flows through the anterior dorsal vessel. During the second phase of systole, blood flows through the posterior dorsal vessel. During diastole, blood flows from the anterior and posterior vessels and fills the main heart. The origin of a peculiar blood system in brachiopods can be explained by reduction of the ventral vessel, which is probably correlates with the reduction of the ventral side of the brachiopod ancestor's body. Another peculiarity of brachiopod blood system is the presence of an ampullar heart, which functions as a blood depot and allows blood to move in the vessels in two directions in an oscillatory mode. The brachiopod blood system contains vessels lacking true endothelium and can be classified as an "incompletely closed" type. Research Highlights: The blood system of brachiopods contains a dorsal vessel divided into anterior and posterior parts. Circulation includes three stages: during the first phase of systole, blood flows in the anterior vessel, during the second phase of systole, blood flows in the posterior vessel, and during diastole, blood flows from the anterior and posterior vessels and fills the main heart. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent research has extensively explored the intricate mechanisms that underlie the effectiveness of acupuncture, highlighting the importance of stimulating acupoints, the role of acupuncture techniques in managing diseases, and the interaction between meridian pathways and molecular processes. Studies have underscored the crucial role of acupuncture in activating neurons, modulating the immune system, and influencing vascular activity, all of which contribute significantly to its therapeutic benefits across a wide range of symptoms and conditions. Utilization of imaging modalities enables the identification of changes in cerebral blood flow, brain function, and regional glucose metabolism following acupuncture sessions. The interstitial fluid circulation network within meridians adheres to specific laws that facilitate the transportation of materials. Acupuncture initiates the release of neurotransmitters, neuropeptides, and immune factors, impacting pain perception, inflammation, and physiological functions. It influences the complex neuro–endocrine–immune network by activating pathways involving the nervous system, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, and immune responses. Moreover, acupuncture induces molecular modifications such as phosphorylation, methylation, and histone modification, leading to key molecular changes that ultimately result in anti-inflammatory effects and the regulation of immune responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Greenhouse gas emissions from ships are estimated to be approximately 1002 million tons per year; this is the largest carbon dioxide (CO2) emission source among nonroad transportation. Previous studies have generally estimated CO2 emissions using fuel- or power-based emission factors based on fuel consumption or engine power. In this study, CO2 emissions from vessels were measured using a portable emission measurement system. Emission characteristics were analyzed according to the vessel's operation conditions and compared with the results of other studies. Generally, the higher the rpm value, the more CO2 is emitted, and the emissions at the maximum rpm differ depending on the type and size of the engine. In order to minimize the emissions by ships, those from high seas should be reduced rather than nearby ports. In addition, a method of establishing optimal operating conditions in consideration of economic and environmental perspectives was proposed. Fuel-based emission factors elicited in this study were constant regardless of engine rpm. The fuel-based emission factors of each engine were found to be similar at 3144.22 and 3150.58 kg-CO2/tonne-fuel. Therefore, distinguishing CO2 emission factors according to engine type is not necessary, and additional research is required to understand the emission factors of each fuel type. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper dives into the research of the understanding of the word ship. This necessary to decode in order to establish liability. In the contemporary times the understanding of the word 'ship' or 'vessel' or any 'sailing object' is wide. Therefore it is necessary to inquire into the actual legal understanding of the said words. The aim is to establish objectivity in the laws of maritime dealings and admiralty issues. This can help in demystifying the true nature of the field where vessels or ships are not restricted to carriage but also has expanded itself into other arena as well such as recreational and entertainment activities. Therefore here in this paper the author has tried to bring all the developed legal aspects of the word ship or vessel under the common legal system. To accomplish this the paper compares Indian, English and Canadian Laws of Admiralty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Previous structural, vascular density, and perfusion studies have mostly comprised type 1 and type 2 diabetes, even in the absence of retinopathy. The current study aimed to compare macular vessel density (VD) measurements between maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) patients and controls. Methods: The macular VD of superficial, deep retina, and choriocapillaris (CC), and central macular thickness (CMT), foveal avascular zone (FAZ), FAZ perimetry, VD of the total retina at 300 µm around the FAZ (FD), and acirculatory index (AI) measurements were taken and analyzed via OCT-A (RTVue XR 100-2 Avanti, AngioVue) and were compared between molecularly confirmed MODY (glucokinase (GCK) variants) patients and healthy controls. Results: Twenty-five MODY patients and 30 healthy controls were included in the study. The mean plasma hemoglobin A1c level in the MODY group was 6.39 ± 0.38. The mean age was 13.8 ± 2.1 in the MODY group and was 12.6 ± 2.5 years among controls. There was no significant difference in terms of the age, superficial and deep retinal VD, FAZ, FAZ perimetry, CMT, FD, or AI between the groups. Compared to the healthy controls, a slight but significant increase in the CC-VD was detected in the MODY group, but only in the parafoveal and perifoveal regions (p = 0.034, p = 0.009). Conclusion: The significant CC-VD increase in the MODY group might be associated with hyperglycemia and/or relatively poor and vulnerable peripheral vascular CC perfusion compared to the central. Previous thickness and VD results of childhood or adolescent diabetes were distributed in a wider range, suggesting that various factors, including some not yet clearly defined, may affect the choroidal vasculature independently of glycemia or as a contributing factor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the creativity, design, and construction of a customized sago machine with a kneading pipe, filter, storage tank, and shredder. The main objective of this innovation is to maximize the conversion of sago stems into superior starch. Sago, an essential food staple in many areas, is typically processed by hand, which results in tedious and time-consuming processes. This project focuses on developing an automated and efficient system to drastically increase productivity and the simplicity of use and transform the sago processing sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The maritime industry is undergoing a major transformation to achieve reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Many new options, such as alternative propulsion systems and fuels, optimized routes, or auxiliary propulsion systems, including wind‐assistance devices, need to be integrated and aligned within a wide network of different stakeholders. New ways are necessary to work with and manage the increasing complexity in the maritime industry. Model‐based systems engineering approaches are a promising strategy to gain a better understanding of the as‐is situation and to develop advanced solutions. This paper shows the application of the ARCADIA method for the maritime industry, with the target of integrating wind‐assistance devices to vessels, using the ARCADIA modeling language and the Capella tool. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The port of Tanger Med stands as the first port in Africa and the Mediterranean, with a throughput capacity of up to 9 million TEUs annually, accommodating the globe's largest vessels, such as ULCVs and MGX-24 classes, which boast capacities nearing 24,000 TEUs. To advance the safety and efficiency of handling deep-drafted vessels, the Tanger Med Port Authority, in cooperation with other terminals partners, try to deploy a sophisticated IoT-based system. This system integrates a high-precision non-linear 3D sea-keeping engine with detailed metocean forecasts, encompassing data on waves, winds, and other hydrodynamic factors. This IoT solution has been instrumental as a decision-support tool, facilitating the Harbormaster and Pilot teams in safely managing vessel transits. It has enabled an increase in the maximum allowable draft to 17.4 meters without requiring dredging. This paper delves into a model validation study assessing the effectiveness of the IoT solution in enhancing dynamic under-keel clearance management at Port Tanger Med, underlining its crucial role in improving operational efficiencies and ensuring navigational safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the past decade, global climate change and the rapid melting of polar ice have dramatically transformed the Arctic landscape from a vast ice-covered area to a seasonally navigable sea. This accessibility has sparked increased commercial activity, posing a threat from various pollutants, particularly from vessel sources. Given China's profound interests in Arctic shipping, its involvement may face resistance from Arctic states, and therefore, it is important for China to ensure that its presence benefits local communities and states. This study explores China's role in shaping the international legal landscape to protect the Arctic from vessel-source pollutions. The intricate interplay between China's economic interests, maritime security concerns, and environmental commitments in the Arctic underscores China's potential role. By aligning with existing international legal structures, such as UNCLOS and MARPOL, China has already started to demonstrate its commitment to preserving the Arctic environment. This study assesses and discusses the potentially strategic importance of China's involvement in influencing legal regimes, offering a crucial contribution to global efforts to preserve this vital region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Main conclusion: The anatomical structures of Carex moorcroftii roots showing stronger plasticity during drought had a lower coefficient of variation in cell size in the same habitats, while those showing weaker plasticity had a higher coefficient of variation. The complementary relationship between these factors comprises the adaptation mechanism of the C. moorcroftii root to drought. To explore the effects of habitat drought on root anatomy of hygrophytic plants, this study focused on roots of C. moorcroftii. Five sample plots were set up along a soil moisture gradient in the Western Sichuan Plateau to collect experimental materials. Paraffin sectioning was used to obtain root anatomy, and one-way ANOVA, correlation analysis, linear regression analysis, and RDA ranking were applied to analyze the relationship between root anatomy and soil water content. The results showed that the root transverse section area, thickness of epidermal cells, exodermis and Casparian strips, and area of aerenchyma were significantly and positively correlated with soil moisture content (P < 0.01). The diameter of the vascular cylinder and the number and total area of vessels were significantly and negatively correlated with the soil moisture content (P < 0.01). The plasticity of the anatomical structures was strong for the diameter and area of the vascular cylinder and thickness of the Casparian strip and epidermis, while it was weak for vessel diameter and area. In addition, there was an asymmetrical relationship between the functional adaptation of root anatomical structure in different soil moisture and the variation degree of root anatomical structure in the same soil moisture. Therefore, the roots of C. moorcroftii can shorten the water transport distance from the epidermis to the vascular cylinder, increase the area of the vascular cylinder and the number of vessels, and establish a complementary relationship between the functional adaptation of root anatomical structure in different habitats and the variation degree of root anatomical structure in the same habitat to adapt to habitat drought. This study provides a scientific basis for understanding the response of plateau wetland plants to habitat changes and their ecological adaptation strategies. More scientific experimental methods should be adopted to further study the mutual coordination mechanisms of different anatomical structures during root adaptation to habitat drought for hygrophytic plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a major vision-threatening disease among the working-age population worldwide. Present therapeutic strategies such as intravitreal injection of anti-VEGF and laser photocoagulation mainly target proliferative DR. However, there is a need for early effective management in patients with early stage of DR before its progression into the more severe sight-threatening proliferative stage. Nutraceuticals, natural functional foods with few side effects, have been proposed to be beneficial in patients with DR. Over the decades, many studies, either in vitro or in vivo, have demonstrated the advantages of a number of nutraceuticals in DR with their antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, or vasoprotective effects. However, only a few clinical trials have been conducted, and their outcomes varied. The low bioavailability and instability of many nutraceuticals have indeed hindered their utilization in clinical use. In this context, nanoparticle carriers have been developed to deliver nutraceuticals and to improve their bioavailability. Despite its preclinical nature, research of interventive nutraceuticals for DR may yield promising information in their clinical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The active transport of molecules into the brain from blood is regulated by receptors, transporters, and other cell surface proteins that are present on the luminal surface of endothelial cells at the blood–brain barrier (BBB). However, proteomic profiling of proteins present on the luminal endothelial cell surface of the BBB has proven challenging due to difficulty in labelling these proteins in a way that allows efficient purification of these relatively low abundance cell surface proteins. Methods Here we describe a novel perfusion-based labelling workflow: in vivo glycocapture. This workflow relies on the oxidation of glycans present on the luminal vessel surface via perfusion of a mild oxidizing agent, followed by subsequent isolation of glycoproteins by covalent linkage of their oxidized glycans to hydrazide beads. Mass spectrometry-based identification of the isolated proteins enables high-confidence identification of endothelial cell surface proteins in rats and mice. Results Using the developed workflow, 347 proteins were identified from the BBB in rat and 224 proteins in mouse, for a total of 395 proteins in both species combined. These proteins included many proteins with transporter activity (73 proteins), cell adhesion proteins (47 proteins), and transmembrane signal receptors (31 proteins). To identify proteins that are enriched in vessels relative to the entire brain, we established a vessel-enrichment score and showed that proteins with a high vessel-enrichment score are involved in vascular development functions, binding to integrins, and cell adhesion. Using publicly-available single-cell RNAseq data, we show that the proteins identified by in vivo glycocapture were more likely to be detected by scRNAseq in endothelial cells than in any other cell type. Furthermore, nearly 50% of the genes encoding cell-surface proteins that were detected by scRNAseq in endothelial cells were also identified by in vivo glycocapture. Conclusions The proteins identified by in vivo glycocapture in this work represent the most complete and specific profiling of proteins on the luminal BBB surface to date. The identified proteins reflect possible targets for the development of antibodies to improve the crossing of therapeutic proteins into the brain and will contribute to our further understanding of BBB transport mechanisms.

Abstract Background The diameter of the ostial and proximal left main coronary artery can be greater than 5.0 mm. However, the diameters of the mostly available coronary drug-eluting stents (DESs) are ≤ 4.0 mm. Whether high-pressure dilatation can increase the diameter of stents from 4.0 to 5.0 mm and whether post-dilatation leads to longitudinal stent deformation (LSD) of 4.0-mm-diameter stents have rarely been studied. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate LSD and stent malapposition of six types of commercially available 4.0-mm-diameter stents in China in a 5.0-mm-diameter artificial blood vessel model by optical coherence tomography (OCT) in vitro. Methods The left main coronary artery was simulated by a truncated cone-shaped silicone tube. The internal diameters were 4.0 mm at one end of the silicone tube and 5.0 mm at the other end. Six different types of coronary stents widely used in China were selected for this study. Each stent was respectively implanted into the simulated blood vessel and dilated to a diameter of 4.2 mm according to the stent-balloon pressure compliance table. The stents were subjected to post-dilatation with a 5.0 × 15-mm noncompliant balloon. The LSD ratio of the longitudinal axis of each stent and stent malapposition were measured through OCT, and any fractures of the stents were determined. Results None of the six types of stents fractured following post-dilatation. The longitudinal axes of the BuMA and Excrossal stents were slightly shortened, while the other stents were elongated after high-pressure post-dilatation. All stents expanded to a diameter of 5.0 mm without incomplete stent apposition, except for the Nano Plus stent, which remained malapposed after high-pressure post-dilatation. Conclusion All 4.0-mm-diameter stents can be expanded to a diameter of 5.0 mm by noncompliant balloon post-dilatation without stent strut fracture. Most stents were found to be well apposed after high-pressure post-dilatation. However, LSD was observed after post-balloon dilatation. Stent malapposition might be positively correlated with the percentage change in stent length.

One of the primary complications in generating physiologically representative skin tissue is the inability to integrate vasculature into the system, which has been shown to promote the proliferation of basal keratinocytes and consequent keratinocyte differentiation, and is necessary for mimicking representative barrier function in the skin and physiological transport properties. We created a 3D vascularized human skin equivalent (VHSE) with a dermal and epidermal layer, and compared keratinocyte differentiation (immunomarker staining), epidermal thickness (H&E staining), and barrier function (transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) and dextran permeability) to a static, organotypic avascular HSE (AHSE). The VHSE had a significantly thicker epidermal layer and increased resistance, both an indication of increased barrier function, compared to the AHSE. The inclusion of keratin in our collagen hydrogel extracellular matrix (ECM) increased keratinocyte differentiation and barrier function, indicated by greater resistance and decreased permeability. Surprisingly, however, endothelial cells grown in a collagen/keratin extracellular environment showed increased cell growth and decreased vascular permeability, indicating a more confluent and tighter vessel compared to those grown in a pure collagen environment. The development of a novel VHSE, which incorporated physiological vasculature and a unique collagen/keratin ECM, improved barrier function, vessel development, and skin structure compared to a static AHSE model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Chinese Journal of Applied Ecology / Yingyong Shengtai Xuebao is the property of Chinese Journal of Applied Ecology and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study aims to automatically detect multiple sclerosis (MS) in terms of the changes in retinal vessels using Scanning laser ophthalmoscopy (SLO) images. Although much research has been done to diagnose MS patients, these diagnostic techniques have always been based on using Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images which cannot be a complete technique in diagnosing this disease. Using SLO images and examining the condition of its vessels using computer technology, biomarkers in the vessel can be identified to help diagnose MS patients. However, in the first step, the color images are converted to gray and after that are improved using a combination of algorithm Tylor Coye and DWT, then, the images are segmented and retinal vessels are extracted. Besides, two different techniques are used in classification stage. In the first technique, classic Machine learning different features are extracted from the resulting regions and entered into several multiple classifiers, the results of which give us an accuracy of 72%, moreover in the second technique segmented images enter the transfer learning model and ultimately lead us to 98% accuracy in the distinction between MS patients and Healthy Controls (HCs). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When utilizing microspheres to construct structural color layers on wood surfaces, the cellular structure of wood can influence the self-assembly of microspheres and the resulting structural color layers. To investigate this influence, seven types of wood were selected in this study, and structural color layers were constructed on their surfaces. A comparative analysis was conducted on the color production and macro and micro morphologies of the structural color layers on different wood surfaces, along with an examination of the types and causes of surface defects. The study found that when a microsphere-containing emulsion was applied to a wood surface, the emulsion tended to flow along the vessels of hardwood and the tracheids of softwood. Overflow or seepage of the emulsion could lead to a reduction in the number of microspheres per unit area, resulting in uneven thickness and uneven color generation of the structural color layers. Although the structural color layers on different wood exhibited the same color, there were variations in their tones, appearance, and morphology. Defects such as minor bumps and pits were present on the structural color layers. Bump defects might originate from microsphere encapsulation of fiber bundles or the displacement of air within vessel lumens by emulsion, while pits were mainly caused by the inflow of emulsion into the vessel lumens. This study clarified the influence of wood surface cells, particularly vessels and tracheids, on the construction and color production of structural color layers, providing support for the controllable modification of wood surfaces using structural colors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Foco (Interdisciplinary Studies Journal) is the property of Revista Foco and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: The active transport of molecules into the brain from blood is regulated by receptors, transporters, and other cell surface proteins that are present on the luminal surface of endothelial cells at the blood–brain barrier (BBB). However, proteomic profiling of proteins present on the luminal endothelial cell surface of the BBB has proven challenging due to difficulty in labelling these proteins in a way that allows efficient purification of these relatively low abundance cell surface proteins. Methods: Here we describe a novel perfusion-based labelling workflow: in vivo glycocapture. This workflow relies on the oxidation of glycans present on the luminal vessel surface via perfusion of a mild oxidizing agent, followed by subsequent isolation of glycoproteins by covalent linkage of their oxidized glycans to hydrazide beads. Mass spectrometry-based identification of the isolated proteins enables high-confidence identification of endothelial cell surface proteins in rats and mice. Results: Using the developed workflow, 347 proteins were identified from the BBB in rat and 224 proteins in mouse, for a total of 395 proteins in both species combined. These proteins included many proteins with transporter activity (73 proteins), cell adhesion proteins (47 proteins), and transmembrane signal receptors (31 proteins). To identify proteins that are enriched in vessels relative to the entire brain, we established a vessel-enrichment score and showed that proteins with a high vessel-enrichment score are involved in vascular development functions, binding to integrins, and cell adhesion. Using publicly-available single-cell RNAseq data, we show that the proteins identified by in vivo glycocapture were more likely to be detected by scRNAseq in endothelial cells than in any other cell type. Furthermore, nearly 50% of the genes encoding cell-surface proteins that were detected by scRNAseq in endothelial cells were also identified by in vivo glycocapture. Conclusions: The proteins identified by in vivo glycocapture in this work represent the most complete and specific profiling of proteins on the luminal BBB surface to date. The identified proteins reflect possible targets for the development of antibodies to improve the crossing of therapeutic proteins into the brain and will contribute to our further understanding of BBB transport mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Neotropical otter (Lontra longicaudis) is a mustelid distributed geographically from Mexico to Argentina. Anomalous origins of the aortic arch branches are rarely reported in wild carnivorans. Therefore, this study aimed to report the anomalous branching of the aortic arch in one formaldehyde‐fixed specimen of L. longicaudis. The aortic arch provided three branches: the bicarotid trunk and the left and right subclavian arteries. The latter passed dorsally to the esophagus toward the right side without a mark of compression at the esophagus. This is the first report of an anomalous origin of the right subclavian artery in L. longicaudis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The diameter of the ostial and proximal left main coronary artery can be greater than 5.0 mm. However, the diameters of the mostly available coronary drug-eluting stents (DESs) are ≤ 4.0 mm. Whether high-pressure dilatation can increase the diameter of stents from 4.0 to 5.0 mm and whether post-dilatation leads to longitudinal stent deformation (LSD) of 4.0-mm-diameter stents have rarely been studied. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate LSD and stent malapposition of six types of commercially available 4.0-mm-diameter stents in China in a 5.0-mm-diameter artificial blood vessel model by optical coherence tomography (OCT) in vitro. Methods: The left main coronary artery was simulated by a truncated cone-shaped silicone tube. The internal diameters were 4.0 mm at one end of the silicone tube and 5.0 mm at the other end. Six different types of coronary stents widely used in China were selected for this study. Each stent was respectively implanted into the simulated blood vessel and dilated to a diameter of 4.2 mm according to the stent-balloon pressure compliance table. The stents were subjected to post-dilatation with a 5.0 × 15-mm noncompliant balloon. The LSD ratio of the longitudinal axis of each stent and stent malapposition were measured through OCT, and any fractures of the stents were determined. Results: None of the six types of stents fractured following post-dilatation. The longitudinal axes of the BuMA and Excrossal stents were slightly shortened, while the other stents were elongated after high-pressure post-dilatation. All stents expanded to a diameter of 5.0 mm without incomplete stent apposition, except for the Nano Plus stent, which remained malapposed after high-pressure post-dilatation. Conclusion: All 4.0-mm-diameter stents can be expanded to a diameter of 5.0 mm by noncompliant balloon post-dilatation without stent strut fracture. Most stents were found to be well apposed after high-pressure post-dilatation. However, LSD was observed after post-balloon dilatation. Stent malapposition might be positively correlated with the percentage change in stent length. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past few decades, there has been a remarkable advancement in the field of transplantation. But the shortage of donors is still an urgent problem that requires immediate attention. As with xenotransplantation, bioengineered organs are promising solutions to the current shortage situation. And decellularization is a unique technology in organ-bioengineering. However, at present, there is no unified decellularization method for different tissues, and there is no gold-standard for evaluating decellularization efficiency. Meanwhile, recellularization, re-endothelialization and modification are needed to form transplantable organs. With this mind, we can start with decellularization and re-endothelialization or modification of small blood vessels, which would serve to address the shortage of small-diameter vessels while simultaneously gathering the requisite data and inspiration for further recellularization of the whole organ-scale vascular network. In this review, we collect the related experiments of decellularization and post-decellularization approaches of small vessels in recent years. Subsequently, we summarize the experience in relation to the decellularization and post-decellularization combinations, and put forward obstacle we face and possible solutions.

The article deals with the study of the Lomovatka archaeological culture ceramic collection of the IX – first half of the X centuries, which is the reference for the Perm Urals – Bayanovo I burial ground. For 17 years of research, the burial utensils have not been subjected to a thorough analysis. The article analyzes the main technological and morphological features of 69 hand-made ceramic vessels found in the burials of the Bayanovo I burial ground. The study of vessel manufacturing technology was carried out within the framework of the historical and cultural approach developed by A.A. Bobrinsky. Following the results of the study, it was established that the ware of the Bayanovo I burial ground have characteristic features of the Lomovatka culture. Vessels were made of clay by ancient potters in a naturally moistened state. The most common burial ware at the Bayanovo I burial ground was hand-made squat bowls with a rounded body and bottom, convex walls and a straight-cut rim bent outward, decorated with tucks, cord-comb ornamentation of the neck and a comb pattern along the neck. This tradition is associated with the Ugric ethnic component.

أواني الريتون ما بين الفارسي واليوناني من خلال مقبرة بيتوزيريس بتونا الجبل دراسة تحليلية مقارنة [AR] يعد إناء الريتون من الأواني الهامة التي اسُتخدمت في الاحتفالات والطقوس الدينية كأواني لشرب الماء أو الخمر. ويرجع ظهورها إلي الربع الأخير من القرن الرابع قبل الميلاد في بلاد اليونان حيث يذكر المؤرخ هيرودوت أن اليونانيين عثروا عقب الحروب الفارسية علي كثير من مقتنيات المعسكر الفارسي والتي كانت من بينها أواني الريتون. وتنقسم أواني الريتون من حيث الشكل إلي ثلاثة أنواع: يتمثل النوع الأول في إناء الريتون المنحني ويكون فيه الإناء ذو قاعدة تُمثل الجزء السفلي من الإناء يعلوها رأس الحيوان التي تُمثل الجزء الأكبر من حجم الإناء أما الجزء العلوي، فيُمثل فوهة الإناء، بينما النوع الثاني هو إناء الريتون ذو قرن الحيوان "البوق" حيث يتخذ الإناء الشكل المخروطي. ويتكون من جزئيين الجزء العلوي يتمثل في فوهة وبدن الإناء، والجزء السفلي يتمثل في قرني ورأس الحيوان، أما النوع الثالث فيتمثل في إناء الريتون بهيئة رأس حيوان. وفي هذا النوع يتمثل الإناء في شكل قطعة واحدة فقط تتمثل في رأس الحيوان. و تناولت الدراسة وصف وتحليل مناظر تصوير إناء الريتون بمقبرة بيتوزيريس بتونا الجبل، متبعًا المنهج الوصفي والمقارن والتحليلي. خاتمًا الدراسة بالنتائج التي تضمنتها والتي كانت من بينها أمر ترجيح تأريخ مقبرة بيتوزيريس بناءً علي تصوير هذه الأواني بها إلي الفترة ما بين (517-460 ق.م)، أي من نهاية العصر الصاوي وحتي بداية العصر الفارسي الأول (العصر الأخميني). [EN] The Rhyton vessel is a drinking vessel used for ceremonial purposes. The significant Rhyton vessel is depicted on Petosiris’ tomb at Tuna El Jebel. This type of vessel became popular in Greece since the last quarter of the fourth century BC, after the Persian wars. Most of it was made of pottery rather than metal. According to the historian Herodotus, the Greeks captured many of the Persian camp's possessions after their victories, including the Rhyton vessels, a pottery vessel that had not before been used in Greece. Therefore, Persia could be where it first appeared. The Rhyton vessel comes in three different shapes; The first form is the curved Rhyton: This form of Rhyton vessel has a base that represents the lower part of the pot, ends in the forepart by an animal’s head, which represents the largest part of the pot, and an upper part represents its top. The second form is the horned Rhyton; This form of Rhyton vessels takes a conical shape, consisting of two parts. The upper part represents the mouth and body of the pot, while the horns and head of the animal represent the lower part since it resembles the trumpet instrument used in the horn. It was sometimes referred to as the «trumpet» instead of just the animal's horn. The Third Form is the Rhyton which is in the form of an animal head. Moreover, the third form is the Rhyton in the form of an animal head. This Rhyton vessel only consists of one piece represented by the animal's head. It was primarily used as a vessel for funeral rites and began to be produced during the first quarter of the fourth century AD. This paper describes and analyzes its depictions in the tomb of Petosiris in Tuna El Jebel. In order to complete the study, descriptive, comparative and analytic research methodologies are used