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Electrical discharge drilling of blind holes has been a challenging task due to the inherent difficulties in removing debris from the discharging gap. This paper investigates the working mechanism and effects of new stepped electrodes which are used in conjunction with injection flushing in drilling deep blind holes. A series of theoretical simulations and comparative experiments were conducted using cylindrical electrodes and two types of stepped electrodes. Pulse waveforms were captured to analyse the discharge status. Surface topography and machining quality were analysed using scanning electron microscope (SEM) images. The machining performance was evaluated by studying the material removal rate (MRR) and tool wear ratio (TWR). Experiment results show that internal flushing caused the debris to circulate in the machining zone and led to abnormal discharges, disrupting the formation of the plasma channel. The MRR was increased by 75% and 82% when using cylindrical electrodes with pressures of 120 psi and 40 psi, respectively. In contrast, the MRR with injection flushing was about 80% of that without injection flushing when using stepped electrodes. Regardless of the type of electrode, the application of injection flushing resulted in the increase in the maximum effective machining depth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Clinically, the most dangerous and serious complication of artificial joint replacement is periprosthetic infections. It is urgent to find a way to prevent periprosthetic infections after artificial joint replacement. OBJECTIVE: To study the effect of povidone-iodine on muscle, blood vessel, fat and bone of rabbits after immersion and flushing. METHODS: Forty male New Zealand rabbits aged 10 weeks were selected. The left hind leg of each rabbit served as the experimental group and the right hind leg served as the control group. After anesthesia, the hind limbs of each rabbit were cut open to expose the muscle, blood vessels, fat and bone. The control group was soaked and flushed with normal saline inside the surgical incision, while the experimental group was soaked and flushed with povidone-iodine inside the surgical incision. After being soaked in povidone-iodine for 0, 1, 3, 5 minutes, 10 rabbits were randomly selected and executed to collect wound tissue samples. The samples were made into pathological slices for hematoxylin-eosin staining observation as well as statistical analysis and comparison of cell counts. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Compared with the control group, the muscle, blood vessels, fat and bone after immersion and flushing with povidone-iodine showed no obvious difference in cell structure, morphology and number under microscope. The paired t-test was used to explore the difference between the control and experimental groups, and the paired data did not show any difference (P > 0.05). It is suggested that povidone-iodine shows no significant difference from normal saline after immersion and flushing of rabbit tissues such as muscle, blood vessels, fat and bone, indicating that povidone-iodine solution as an intra-incisional antiseptic is safe and effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experiment was made to compare some basic productive indexes in sheep of the Pach-head Maritsa breed when replacing barley grain with sunflower expeller in their rations during "flushing - pregnancy"- period. The obtained results indicate a trend of positive influence of feed replacement as follows: body scoring index of sheep at the end of pregnancy - 3.58 (expeller) against 3.25 (barley); percentage of ewes with twins - 28.57 vs. 20%, respectively; average live weight of lambs at birth - 4,110 vs. 3,974 kg; average live weight of lambs at 30 days - 15,060 vs. 14,720 kg. With identical prices for both forages, the authors recommend replacing barley with sunflower expeller. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Open in new tab Download slide OBJECTIVES Thoracoscopic sympathicotomy may be an effective treatment for disabling facial blushing in selected patients. Short- and mid-term results are good but very long-term results are scarce in the medical literature and there is no knowledge which extent of sympathicotomy is better long-term for isolated facial blushing. METHODS We previously randomized 100 patients between a rib-oriented R2 or R2–R3 sympathicotomy for isolated facial blushing, and reported local effects, side effects and quality of life after 12 months. In the present study, we sent identical questionnaires to all patients after a median of 16 years (interquartile range 15–17 years). RESULTS The response rate was 66%. Overall, 82% reported excellent or satisfactory results on facial blushing, with significant better local effect after R2 sympathicotomy compared with R2–R3 sympathicotomy. Patients who underwent R2 sympathicotomy were also significantly more satisfied with the operation. We found no significant difference between R2 and R2–R3 sympathicotomy in quality of life or rates of compensatory sweating (77%) and recurrence of blushing (41%) which was milder than preoperatively in most patients. CONCLUSIONS R2 sympathicotomy should be the preferred approach for isolated facial blushing because of better local effect and higher satisfaction rates. Although this was a very long-term follow-up of the only randomized trial of its kind the response rate was limited leaving a risk of undetected bias. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current study hypothesized that dietary l‐carnitine (LC) inclusion during the mating period ameliorates both metabolic status and reproductive performance of ewes. Seventy Baluchi ewes (52 ± 4.2 kg of bodyweight and 18 ± 6 months old of age) were enrolled in this study. Animals were randomly allocated into two dietary treatments, control (only basal diet) or basal diet plus supplementation with a rumen‐protected LC (Carneon 20 Rumin‐pro; 20% LC; Kaesler Nutrition GmbH) at the rate of 10 g/head/day from 21 days before until 35 days after introducing rams to the ewes (MP). Feed intake was monitored by subtracting the ort from feed offered. Blood sample collection was conducted on Days −10, +10 and +20 relative to MP. Pregnancy was confirmed on Day 30 post‐MP. Feed intake of the ewes in the LC group was higher than the control (p < 0.05). LC supplementation increased the cholesterol concentration in the ewes (p < 0.05). Blood urea concentration of animals in the LC group was significantly lower than the control (p < 0.05). The mRNA expression of toll‐like receptor 4 was evidently lower in animals supplemented with LC than the control (p < 0.05). Both lambing and fecundity rates in the LC group tended to be higher compared with the control. LC supplementation showed potential to alter certain metabolites in the ewes. A tendency for higher lambing rate may partly be driven by dams efficient energy partitioning to support foetal growth and maintaining pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea (ETR) is recognized by flushing, persistent centrofacial erythema, and telangiectasia. Many lines of topical treatments have been used for ETR with variable outcomes. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of 10% topical tranexamic acid (TXA) with and without microneedling in treating ETR. METHODS: All patients received treatment on both sides of the face, the right side was treated with microneedling combined with 10% topical TXA, and the left side was treated with 10% topical TXA only. All patients received three sessions at two weeks intervals. The final evaluation was done three months after the last treatment session. RESULTS: The study included 45 females. Their age ranged between 20 and 48 years. The duration of the disease ranged from two months to five years. Both sides of the face showed improvement after treatment. There was a clinically and dermoscopic significant improvement in the side treated with microneedling + TXA compared to the side of the face treated with TXA alone. LIMITATIONS: The small sample size and the lack of long-term follow-up. CONCLUSION: This study showed that TXA is an effective and safe treatment modality for ETR. Microneedling can enhance the delivery of TXA and lead to better outcomes regarding erythema and telangiectasia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The treatment of choice for tumors located in the parotid gland is surgery. Nevertheless, postoperative complications are not infrequent. Regardless of the type of surgical procedure, the most common complication is Frey's syndrome (FS). Traditionally, FS includes unilateral gustatory sweating and flushing of the facial skin lining the parotid compartment. Recent research describes atypical discomfort associated with FS. The aim of this study was to assess the late prevalence and severity of both usual and atypical symptoms after parotidectomy for benign tumors. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study involving 86 subjects who underwent superficial parotidectomy at least one year before the study. The questionnaire included the sweating–flushing–itch–paresthesia–pain (SFIPP) Frey scale supplemented by specific questions about symptoms. Results: Sixty-seven out of eighty-six (77.9%) cases reported almost one symptom. The most frequent symptom was itch (36/67—53.7%), followed by pain (35/67—52.2%), while 28/67 (41.8%) subjects complained of atypical symptoms without flushing or sweating. A desire to treat the discomfort was reported by 50/67 (74.6%) subjects. Conclusions: Late postparotidectomy local discomfort is not infrequent and includes both usual and "unusual" symptoms almost equally. Our results suggest the importance of informing patients about the occurrence of the syndrome and the available treatment options during pre- and postoperative counseling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Dupilumab is the first biologic agent used to clinically treat moderate and severe atopic dermatitis (AD) and is currently the only biologic agent used for this condition. Many studies have reported that moderateto-severe AD was significantly improved after dupilumab injection, although head/neck dermatitis occurred with itching, flushing, and scaling. Moreover, because all the symptoms occur after dupilumab treatment, they are called "dupilumab facial redness (DFR)". Aim: To retrospectively analyse the clinical characteristics and treatment of facial erythema in patients with atopic dermatitis treated with dupilumab. Material and methods: The clinical data of patients with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis treated with dupilumab (600 mg for the first time, 300 mg every 2 weeks thereafter) in the department of dermatology from July 2020 to May 2022 were obtained. We described their characteristics and analysed their symptomatic treatment measures and efficacy. Results: Twenty-one patients with DFR were included. Most clinical manifestations were erythema and pruritus, which differed from the symptoms of typical moderate-to-severe AD. After treatment, drug withdrawal, and dressing change, the symptoms of 17 patients were effectively controlled or completely improved, while these of 4 did not improve. Conclusions: Although the mechanism of DFR is still unclear, symptomatic treatment is partially effective, and medication discontinuation and switching to Janus kinase inhibitors are acceptable for some patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To investigate the efficacy of intradermal botulinum toxin type A injection for the treatment of flushing of rosacea patients. Methods Seventy-four patients of erythematous vascular type rosacea and/or papulopustular rosacea in our hospital from May 2019 to July 2020 were enrolled, and randomly divided into two groups, with 37 cases in each group. Control group received routine treatment, while study group received routine treatment combined with intradermal botulinum toxin injection. Patients' clinical outcome, flushing symptom questionnaire (FSQ), clinician's erythema assessment scale (CEA), investigator's global assessment (IGA) and adverse effects were assessed by two physicians. Results After treatment, there was a decrease in lesion score, seizure frequency of 4-6, frequency ≥7 times and duration of ≥121 min, moderate and extremely severe rates of overall self-evaluation, quality of life impact, sleep quality impact evaluation, as well as the moderate to severe rates of CEA, IGA scale of both groups (P<0.05), and the decrease was more significant in study group than in control group (P>0.05). The clinical efficacy of study group was significantly higher than that of control group (P<0.05), and no adverse reaction occurred in both groups. Conclusion Intradermal botulinum toxin type A injection is effective and safe in the treatment of erythema and flushing of rosacea patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was aimed to investigate the combined effect of flushing and hormonal treatment on reproductive aspects of local goats, 60 adult does were divided equally into two groups, the first was fed concentrate plus grazing commencing 3 weeks prior to mating and continue for 4 weeks post mating (flushed) F, whereas the 2nd group was raised on pasture only (P). All does were synchronized using impregnated with 40 mg medroxy acetate for 14 days. Following sponges withdrawn, the flushed and non- flushed does were then sub-divided in to four equal groups, the 1st flushed does were injected with 250 i.u hCG (T1), the 2nd only flushed (T2), the 3rd was only injected with hCG (T3) and the 4th was the control (T4). Results revealed that estrus response was significantly higher in T1 (100%), followed by T3 and T4 (86.66%) and T2 (80%). Fertility rate was significantly (P˂0.01) higher in T1 (80%) followed by T3 (73.33%), T4 (66.66%) and T2 (60.0%). Highest kidding rate (120.0%) and litter size (1.50) was noticed in T1, while the lowest kidding rate (86.66%) were found in T2 and T4. Insulin level was significantly higher in flushed does (6.04) compared to non-flushed does (2.81 uIU/ML). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose was to determine any difference in outcomes, primarily in terms of number of retrieved oocytes per procedure, between two different needles used for oocytes retrieval procedure in Assisted Reproductive Technologies: the single-lumen needle (SLN) versus the double-lumen needle (DLN) with follicle flushing after aspiration. This randomized controlled trial included oocyte retrieval (OR) cycles for IVF and ICSI performed in 18 to 42-year-old women between March 2019 and January 2021 at a tertiary-care Fertility Center. A total of 200 ORs were randomized, 100 in each group. The mean number of retrieved oocytes was not different between groups (10.2 ± 6.5 for DLNs vs. 10.7 ± 7.0 for SLNs, p = 0.810). No significant differences were observed also in terms of number of retrieved oocytes/punctured follicles (83.0% ± 27.0% vs. 81.0% ± 22.0%, p = 0.916), number of retrieved oocytes/follicles at trigger (78.0% ± 29.0% vs. 78.0% ± 27.0%, p = 0.881), number of mature oocytes (7.6 ± 5.3 vs. 8.0 ± 5.1, p = 0.519), and pregnancy rate (27% vs. 23%, p = 0.514). However, the time required to retrieve each oocyte was longer using the DLN (1.5 ± 1.3 vs. 1.1 ± 0.9 minutes, p = 0.002). The present study confirmed the new perspectives on the sole use of SLNs in terms of saving time, without affecting the number of retrieved oocytes. Trial registration number and date of registration NCT03611907; July 26, 2018. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban combined drainage pipe network carries domestic sewage in dry season and rainfall runoff in rainy season. In heavy rainfall, combined drainage overflow pollution is easy to cause harm to water environment. In this study, two typical combined drainage pipes in Beijing were selected to monitor rainfall and runoff. Based on the analysis of seven pollution indexes of SS, COD, TN, NH3-N, TP, Pb and Zn in runoff under typical rainfall conditions, the characteristics of water pollution were studied. The results show that the average concentration (EMC) of rainfall runoff pollution events for SS, COD, TN, NH3-N and TP water quality indicators has exceeded the reference standard limits. The pollution degree of heavy metals Pb and Zn is lighter. The EMC values of Pb and Zn in two points are lower than that of the class V standard for Environmental Quality Standards for Surface Water (GB 3838—2002). The change process of pipeline water quality is influenced by rainfall intensity, surface accumulation of pollutants, pipeline sediment erosion and other factors. The concentration of most pollutants is negatively correlated with rainfall intensity and positively correlated with antecedent drying duration. The rainfall intensity, the antecedent drying duration and the distribution of rainfall during the rainall affect the initial scour effect of pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main objective of the research carried out, was to determine the impact due to additional feeding on the specific performance of milk production in Botoșani Karakul sheep breed. In order to achieve the main objective of the research, two groups of adult females between three and six years of age were formed. Both lots were maintained under similar conditions, applying a traditional technology based on feeding them from the stock during the cold season and on pasture during the warm season. The experimental treatment was represented by the fact that L2 benefited from additional feeding applied 25 days before the mating date. This batch received a 170 g amount each morning consisting of a mixture of cultivated cereals (ground corn, sunflower meal, barley and oat grains). Live weight and body condition evaluation at mating time indicates a 2.41 kg higher live weight at L2 but also an improvement in body condition by 0.31 points. For live weight, a significant difference between groups was obtained for P≤0.05. Regarding the milk production obtained from the females in relation to the BCS assigned to L1 the biggest difference was between BCS = 3.0 and BCS = 1.5 and in L2 between BCS = 2.5 and BCS = 1.5, both situations being significant for P<0.01. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Sherwin Carlquist was aware that wood represents a compromise between transport efficiency and safety. He considered wide vessels to be more vulnerable to drought-induced embolism than narrow conduits. He proposed that narrow vessels might provide redundancy and conductive safety. Research on vessel diameter and safety emerged in the 1970s and has dramatically grown in recent years showing the transformative impact these concepts have had on current research. We show how our experimental work largely supports Carlquist's assumptions on the vulnerability of wide vessels. Although there is great variability in the vulnerability of narrow vessels, the data show that wide vessels are always vulnerable. We offer explanations for why narrow vessels differ in their vulnerability, and these explanations are rooted in Carlquist's observations on the woody Californian flora. We recognize that there is disagreement among researchers on the correlation between vessel diameter and vulnerability to drought-induced embolism. In relation to this, we discuss the issue of flushing, i.e., whether embolism should be removed prior to generating a vulnerability to cavitation curve. Constructing a vulnerability curve from native samples that contain a substantial fraction of embolized vessels is an example of 'survivorship bias' because only those vessels that remained functional through a past selection process are included. Survivorship bias can lead to false conclusions on the relationship between vessel diameter and embolism resistance. This is especially the case because anatomical measures rarely incorporate functional information on the selection of measured vessels, leading to a mismatch between vessels evaluated for function and anatomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To describe the epidemiological, demographic and clinical characteristics of patients with rosacea, in addition to know the factors associated with flushing in these patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional descriptive study of patients with rosacea evaluated at a private practice dermatology center in Medellin, Colombia, from January 2006 to March 2022; made with secondary sources. RESULTS: Two hundred medical records of patients diagnosed with rosacea were analyzed, finding a female:male ratio of 2:1 and a higher frequency of rosacea between 30 to 59 years of age. The distribution of rosacea subtypes was erythematous-telangiectatic 29.5%, papular-pustular 45.5%, phymatous 2.5%, and ocular 22.5%; 97.5% of the patients had a positive skin-surface biopsy for Demodex, 84.5% showed pityriasis folliculorum on physical examination, and 60.5% reported flushing; 61.1% of patients with rosacea who underwent tests for Helicobacter pylori had a positive result. The prevalence of flushing observed in patients with a positive result for Helicobacter pylori was 24% higher compared to those who presented a negative result. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with rosacea and flushing have a higher prevalence of Helicobacter pylori, therefore it is important to rule out this infection in these subjects. In addition, our data suggest a higher prevalence of ocular rosacea than reported in other studies conducted in Colombia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Standards of care and guidelines acknowledge insufficient evidence that defines frequency of flushing for implanted vascular access devices (IVADs). Manufacturers recommend 4 weeks, but guidelines suggest that extending to 12 weeks is safe based on functionality. OBJECTIVES: The study reviewed current standards of care for IVAD flush maintenance frequency, examined the characteristics of blood from IVADs by aspirating and observing contents prior to flushing when maintenance care is delayed beyond four weeks, and identified whether more research is required to determine optimal IVAD maintenance flush frequency. METHODS: An outpatient oncology clinic gathered data related to IVAD flush frequency during the COVID-19 pandemic. The concern was potentially harmful substances being flushed into the patient. A new method was developed to allow for observation of physiologic characteristics within the IVAD. Abnormal-appearing substances aspirated from the devices were discarded prior to use. FINDINGS: Visible clots and alterations in color and appearance were observed in 25% of the 59 patients observed between 8 and 17+ weeks when the IVAD reservoir was aspirated prior to flushing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electrochemical discharge machining (ECDM) process is a popular technology for drilling holes in ceramic materials (including glass), particularly in the microdomain. The ECDM process and its variants have been continuously investigated and augmented to fabricate deep micro-holes on glass. ECDM with electrolyte injection was recently utilized to fabricate the deepest micro-hole in borosilicate glass. However, the drilling capability is still limited to a certain depth of micro-hole due to poor flushing of the machined by-products (i.e., salt, sludge, and debris). In order to resolve this issue, the present work uses the application of electrolyte and air injection, which improves the flushing action during ECDM drilling without compromising the advantages of electrolyte injection. This is achieved by providing electrolyte-air injection into the machining zone using a novel multi-phase injection system with the ECDM facility. The underlying material removal mechanism in the conventional ECDM, ECDM with electrolyte and electrolyte-air injection, is also established based on analytical models and extensive experimental characterization. Additionally, a parametric investigation is conducted to compare the drilling performance of the ECDM with novel electrolyte-air injection and the ECDM electrolyte injection at various parametric conditions. The experimental results clearly showed the advantages of the ECDM with electrolyte-air injection over the previously benchmarked ECDM with electrolyte injection. Eventually, a through-micro-hole is drilled on a 3500 μm thick glass work material using the ECDM with electrolyte-air injection. Concurrently, a 22.73% lower entrance diameter and 37.36% higher hole depth are realized compared to the ECDM with electrolyte injection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gut microbiota is involved in the development of the immune system and can modulate the risk for immune-mediated disorders such as multiple sclerosis (MS). Dysbiosis has been demonstrated in MS patients and its restoration by disease-modifying treatments (DMTs) is hypothesized. We aimed to study the changes in gut microbiota composition during the first 6 months of treatment with dimethyl fumarate (DMF), an oral DMT, and to identify the microorganisms associated with DMF side effects. We collected and analyzed the gut microbiota of 19 MS patients at baseline and after 1, 3, and 6 months of DMF treatment. We then cross-sectionally compared gut microbiota composition according to the presence of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms and flushing. Overall, the gut microbiota biodiversity showed no changes over the 6-month follow-up. At the genus level, DMF was associated with decreased Clostridium abundance after 6 months. In subjects reporting side effects, a higher abundance of Streptococcus, Haemophilus, Clostridium, Lachnospira, Blautia, Subdoligranulum, and Tenericutes and lower of Bacteroidetes, Barnesiella, Odoribacter, Akkermansia, and some Proteobacteria families were detected. Our results suggest that gut microbiota may be involved in therapeutic action and side effects of DMF, representing a potential target for improving disease course and DMT tolerability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the effects of ß-carotene and vitamin E on serum biochemistry, body condition score, and the number of offspring in sheep during the flushing period. To this purpose, forty Romanov sheep 45 (±1 kg) body weight and 3 years of age were allocated into one of four experimental treatments with 10 replicates for 6 weeks: the control (only flushing), and three treatment groups injected intramuscularly with 1, 2, and 4 ml ß-carotene + vitamin E in the third week of flushing, respectively. The 4-ml treatment of ß-carotene + vitamin E evidently increased the follicle-stimulating hormone level. The 2-ml treatment of ß-carotene + vitamin E increased the triglyceride concentration in the serum. Body condition score, offspring number, and biochemical parameters (cholesterol, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, aspartate aminotransferase, beta hydroxyl butyric acid, total protein, and glucose) were not affected by any levels of ß-carotene + vitamin E administration. These findings indicate the positive role of ß-carotene + vitamin E administration on pregnancy rate and some blood parameters during flushing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The persistent erythema and flushing seen in some cases of rosacea do not respond effectively to, or may easily relapse after, oral medication or light-based therapies (laser or intense pulsed light). Intradermal botulinum toxin A (BTX-A) injection can be used to treat intractable erythema and flushing, but studies with large samples and long-term observation have not been conducted to determine its effectiveness and safety. The aim of this study is thus to investigate the effective duration and safety of intradermal BTX-A injection for intractable erythema and flushing. Methods: Sixteen patients with rosacea with erythema telangiectasia were injected with BTX-A at 1-cm intervals between each point. Clinician Erythema Assessment (CEA) scores were obtained at baseline and 1 month after injection. Flushing assessment and survey using the Dermatological Quality of Life Index (DLQI) questionnaire were conducted at baseline and at 1, 3, and 6 months after injection. Results: At 1 month after injection, CEA scores revealed significant improvements in erythema and flushing; the results of the questionnaire on flushing and DLQI indicated that the improvement of flushing usually lasted for 3–6 months, but the effect decreased significantly at 6 months, and individual patients needed another treatment. Conclusions: BTX-A significantly improves the symptoms and quality of life of patients with refractory rosacea with few adverse effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Analysis of the use of biopolymers in drilling and well stimulation for oil and gas production has been performed. Normal Newtonian fluid model, taken used as a sample, is considered a nonlinear viscous fluid. Models that are most common in oil and gas industry are considered. Laboratory studies of rheology of an aqueous solution with various concentrations of xanthan gum have been carried out. An analysis of experimental and numerical hydrodynamic studies in flexible pipes of coiled tubing units has been performed considering the rheology of drilling fluid. For the numerical simulation of the hydrodynamics of a non-Newtonian fluid authors apply an open integrable platform OpenFOAM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vehicle collisions are a significant source of wildlife mortality worldwide, but less attention has been given to secondary mortality of roadkill scavengers, such as the golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos). We sought to quantify golden eagle winter use of roadkill mammal carcasses and eagle flushing from vehicles in Oregon, Utah, and Wyoming, USA, as proxies for strike risk, using motion‐sensitive cameras. We monitored 160 carcasses and captured 2,146 eagle–vehicle interactions at 58 carcasses (1–240 observations/carcass) during winters of 2016–2017, 2017–2018, and 2018–2019. We used generalized linear mixed models, which suggested that eagle use of carcasses declined with time since camera deployment but increased with distance to road. Flushing from vehicles decreased with carcass distance to road but was higher in the morning, in response to larger vehicles and vehicles in the closest lane, and in the Oregon study area. We suggest that roadkill distance to road is the easiest factor to manipulate with the dual benefits of increasing food availability to golden eagles and decreasing flush‐related vehicle strike risk. We recommend that roadkill be moved at least 12 m from the road to increase eagle use and decrease flushing 4‐fold relative to behavior observed at the road edge. Because flushing from roadkill is believed to be the primary cause of eagle–vehicle strikes, informed roadkill management has the potential to reduce human‐caused mortality of golden eagles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine whether a severe mesenteric traction syndrome (MTS) leads to increased surgical stress, endothelial dysfunction, and postoperative morbidity in a cohort in which all patients received a single dose of methylprednisolone. Introduction: Preoperatively administered corticosteroids lower the incidence of severe MTS and may also attenuate surgical stress and endothelial damage associated with the development of severe MTS, ultimately lowering the postoperative morbidity. Methods: This exploratory study analyzed prospectively collected data from 45 patients all receiving 125 mg methylprednisolone. No control group was included. The severity of MTS was graded intraoperatively, and postoperative morbidity was assessed blinded. Blood samples for plasma prostacyclin (PGI2), IL6 and endothelial damage (Syndecan-1, sVEGRF1 and sThrombomodulin) biomarkers were obtained at predefined time points. Results: Patients undergoing either open liver surgery (n = 23) or Whipple's procedure (n = 22) were included. No differences were found in postoperative morbidity between patients developing and not developing severe MTS. Surgery led to significantly increased plasma levels of biomarkers indicative of surgical stress and endothelial damage. Further, patients developing severe MTS had increased levels of PGI2 (p = 0.05) and lower systemic vascular resistance (p < 0.05) 15 min into surgery. However, when comparing the biomarkers of surgical stress, endothelial damage no differences between patients with and without severe MTS were identified. Conclusion: This exploratory study found that surgery was associated with a pro-inflammatory response and damage to the endothelium. However, no differences were found between patients developing severe MTS and patients developing moderate/no MTS in biomarkers of surgical stress, endothelial damage, or postoperative morbidity. Corticosteroids may therefore attenuate the endothelial damage in patients developing severe MTS. However, as this was an exploratory study, these findings must be confirmed in future randomized controlled studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients in intensive care units have a critical problem with Intravenous (IC) drug administration. The effort to decrease incompatibility or manage the incompatibility risks is paramount significant to reduce morbidity and mortality. This review collates all published studies about kinds of approaches to prevent or solve y-site incompatibility, evaluate the effectiveness of those approaches, and provide the recommendation. A scoping review was conducted in PUBMED in a time frame 1 Januari 2010- 28 February 2021. All type studies of randomised controlled trials, observational studies, before and after studies, also review articled were considered to include. We identified 944 studies; of these, 78 met the inclusion criteria, but 44 were excluded. A total 34 articles were included in the analyses. Six articles reported protocol, two-dimensional chart, database, or pH colour code to provide information of incompatibilities. Two-dimensional chart and pH code were comparable with a gold standard. Specific protocol markedly reduced the incompatibility event. Normal saline (NS) flushing effectively prolonged patency and reduced the incompatibility rate. NS was preferred over heparin associated with thrombocytopenia. In-line filtration has been proved to reduce particulate matter, as well as the precipitation, resulted from incompatibility. The filter also reduced inflammation, infection, and complication appreciably. Four studies used more than three lumen catheters which successfully decrease the number of precipitation and incompatibility events. Therefore, separating incompatible drugs using multi-lumens according to the chart should be preferred. However, when co-administration is inevitable, flushing or filter is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (NOS) is higher in rosacea skin samples than in normal skin controls. Hydroxocobalamin is a potent inhibitor of all isoforms of NOS, capable of reducing the vasodilatations induced by nitric oxide.Objective: We aimed to evaluate the role of hydroxocobalamin in treating facial flushing and persistent erythema of rosacea.Methods: Thirteen patients with rosacea who displayed facial flushing and persistent erythema received 1 to 4 weekly intramuscular injections of hydroxocobalamin 1 to 2 mg. The outcomes were measured using the Clinician's Erythema Assessment (CEA) by photography and an infrared thermometer to evaluate the difference in skin surface temperature (SST) of the cheeks before and after treatment.Results: Thirty minutes after the first dose of intramuscular injection of hydroxocobalamin, the mean CEA significantly reduced from 2.2± 0.6 to 1.2±0.4 (p<0.001), and average SST also significantly reduced from 36.7±0.70°C to 36.2±0.61°C (p<0.001) on the cheeks.Conclusion: In our patient sample, intramuscular administration of hydroxocobalamin was effective for immediate reduction of facial erythema associated with rosacea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (NOS) is higher in rosacea skin samples than in normal skin controls. Hydroxocobalamin is a potent inhibitor of all isoforms of NOS, capable of reducing the vasodilatations induced by nitric oxide. Objective: We aimed to evaluate the role of hydroxocobalamin in treating facial flushing and persistent erythema of rosacea. Methods: Thirteen patients with rosacea who displayed facial flushing and persistent erythema received 1 to 4 weekly intramuscular injections of hydroxocobalamin 1 to 2 mg. The outcomes were measured using the Clinician's Erythema Assessment (CEA) by photography and an infrared thermometer to evaluate the difference in skin surface temperature (SST) of the cheeks before and after treatment. Results: Thirty minutes after the first dose of intramuscular injection of hydroxocobalamin, the mean CEA significantly reduced from 2.2± 0.6 to 1.2±0.4 (p<0.001), and average SST also significantly reduced from 36.7±0.70°C to 36.2±0.61°C (p<0.001) on the cheeks. Conclusion: In our patient sample, intramuscular administration of hydroxocobalamin was effective for immediate reduction of facial erythema associated with rosacea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Carcinoid syndrome is the most frequent functional syndrome of neuroendocrine neoplasia. It is characterized by flushing, diarrhea, wheezing, hypotension, and exanthema and may cause carcinoid heart disease. Methods: We assessed clinical characteristics and prognosis of patients with carcinoid syndrome and carcinoid heart disease in 276 patients from 3 referral centers. Results: Carcinoid syndrome patients had a mean age of 57 years (range 21–84) and a normal BMI of 24.9 (SD 4.5; range 13.8–39.6). Most primaries were of small bowel or unknown primaries with distant metastasis in 94.6%. Flushing was the most frequent symptom in 74.3% of patients, followed by diarrhea in 68.8%, and wheezing in 40.9%. Pain was described by 45.3%, weakness by 23.5%, and weight loss of >10% in 6 months by 30.1% of patients. Carcinoid heart disease was diagnosed in 37.3% of patients (n = 104) by echocardiography and involved predominantly in the tricuspid valve. Combinations with other valve defects were common. Somatostatin analogs were taken by 80.4% of patients and 17% needed additional loperamide/opium tincture. Surgery and peptide receptor radiotherapy were most frequent treatments. The median survival of patients with carcinoid syndrome after diagnosis was 9 years. Prognosis was significantly impaired by male sex and diagnosis of carcinoid heart disease but surprisingly significantly increased by the presence of symptoms flushing and weakness. Discussion/Conclusion: Carcinoid syndrome is associated with extensive disease and primaries in small bowels or of unknown primary. Weight loss, weakness, and pain are frequent, and carcinoid heart disease is diagnosed in more than one-third of patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although various treatments have been proposed for the management of rosacea, achieving complete remission of persistent erythema remains challenging. Short-wave radiofrequency (SWRF) treatment has been shown to repair skin barriers and reduce chronic inflammation. However, limited studies have evaluated the effectiveness of SWRF treatment for erythematotelangiectatic rosacea (ETR). A prospective, open-label pilot study using SWRF therapy was conducted on 30 patients with mild-to-moderate ETR. During the first stage, the patients underwent a single, full-face treatment and were evaluated before and after the session, as well as on the 7th and 15th day post-treatment. During the second stage, ten treatment sessions were administered, and the patients were evaluated before and after the tenth session, as well as 1 month after the treatment. Adverse events were recorded during each treatment session, and the patients were followed up for 3 months after the last session. Twenty-eight patients completed the entire trial. On the 7th day after the single treatment, the global score (total score of flushing, persistent erythema, and telangiectasia) of ETR improved from 5.23 ± 1.09 to 4.00 ± 0.76 relative to the baseline value (p < 0.05); moreover, the overall treatment satisfaction improved from 7.27 ± 0.89 to 4.90 ± 0.91 (p < 0.05). 1 month after the tenth treatment session, the global score improved from 5.30 ± 1.01 to 3.85 ± 0.93 (p < 0.05), and the overall treatment satisfaction improved from 7.13 ± 0.85 to 5.17 ± 1.19 (p < 0.05). During the 3 month follow-up period, there were two cases of recurrence. Therefore, this report indicates that SWRF might be an effective auxiliary treatment for mild-to-moderate ETR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To study the efficacy and safety of botulinum toxin (BTX) combined with broadband light (BBL) in the treatment of rosacea‐related erythema and flushing. A randomized, single‐blind, split‐face controlled study including 22 patients with erythemato telangiectatic rosacea were enrolled. Both cheeks were randomly divided into experimental group and control group. They were treated three times with an interval of 1 month. In the first treatment, the experimental group received BBL treatment and intradermal injection of BTX, and the control group received BBL treatment and intradermal injection of the same amount of normal saline; in the second and third treatments were both groups received the same BBL treatment. The patients were evaluated before the first treatment and 1, 2, 3, and 6 months after the treatment. Compared with the control group, the hydration in the experimental group increased and the global flushing symptom score (GFSS), VISIA red value, erythema index, transepidermal water loss, and sebum secretion decreased. The differences were statistically significant (p < 0.05). In the experimental group, at 3 months after the first treatment, compared with before treatment, the GFSS, VISIA red value, erythema index, transepidermal water loss and sebum secretion decreased the hydration increased. The sebum secretion returned to the pretreatment level in 6 months after treatment, and the other indexes maintained the level in 3 months after treatment. One patient had a slight lifting limitation of the corners of his mouth after 10 days of BTX injection, without special treatment, and recovered after 1 month. BTX intradermal injection combined with BBL has a definite therapeutic effect on the improvement of rosacea related erythema and flushing, which is better than simple BBL, and has high safety. It is worthy of clinical promotion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dripline flushing has been widely expected to control the emitter clogging in drip irrigation systems. In this study, a new type of automatic flushing valve with the exhaust function (AE flushing valve) was developed to improve the duration and water volume of flushing. Four parameters were set, including the dentation length and dentation width of the delay channel, upper cavity volume, and water pressure before flushing valve. Eighteen AE flushing valves were designed by L18 (37 ) orthogonal test. Four flushing valves without an exhaust device (NE flushing valve) were set as the control treatment. A hydraulic performance test was performed on the 22 3D printed AE flushing valves to verify the effect of the exhaust device. The response characteristics of AE flushing valve performance to test parameters were also investigated. The results showed that the duration, water volume, and velocity of the AE flushing valve were 18.2-67.7 s, 3 904-12 367 mL, and 0.94-1.4 m/s, respectively when the water pressure at the flushing valve inlet was 0.06-0.14 MPa. The flushing duration and water volume were positively correlated with the dentation length, dentation width, and upper cavity volume, but negatively correlated with the water pressure. The flushing velocity was positively correlated with the water pressure only. According to the significance level of 0.05, the dentation length, dentation width and upper cavity volume posed significant effects on the flushing duration and water volume. The water pressure at the flushing valve inlet presented significant effects on the flushing duration and flushing velocity. The AE flushing valve automatically discharged the air in the upper cavity to improve the flushing duration and flushing water volume, which increased by more than 83.5% and 75.4%, respectively, compared with the NE flushing valve. Considering the anti-clog performance of the delay channel inside the flushing valve, and the minimum size of the flow section of the delay channel should be less than the sensitive clogging size of the emitter of 0.6-0.7mm, the dentation length, dentation width, upper cavity volume and water pressure with the longer flushing duration and larger flushing water volume were 1.2 mm, 2.2 mm, 19.1 mL and 0.06 MPa, respectively, while the corresponding flushing duration and flushing water volume were 67.7 s and 12 194 mL, which were 2.8 and 2.7 times larger than those of NE flushing valve, and 7.4 and 7.0 times larger than those of Israel imported ones. A regression model was established for the hydraulic, structural, and operation parameters of the AE flushing valve. In three AE flushing valves different from the above 18 structural parameters, the root mean square error of measured and predicted values for the flushing duration, flushing water volume, and flushing velocity were 2.1 s, 334 mL and 0.02 m/s, respectively, and the relative error ranges from -9.4% to 8.5%. It infers that the regression equation can be used to predict the structural and operation parameters of the flushing valve. This finding can provide the basis for the development of the automatic flushing valve with the function of exhaust during irrigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine whether fertility could be enhanced in Kıvırcık ewes during the anoestrous period by flushing or by administering an injectable (Ovostim) containing β-Carotene and vitamin E. Three-year-old Kıvırcık ewes (n = 99) were used. The ewes were randomly divided into four groups: flushing, a single dose of Ovostim (5 ml/ewe) before the breeding season, a dose of Ovostim 10 days before the breeding season and a second dose at its start, and an untreated control. Results showed that pregnancy rate was higher in the treated groups than in the control (P <0.001). The single dose of Ovostim produced more multiple births (72%) and the highest litter size (1.64) compared with the other treatments. Although the double-dose of Ovostim influenced the ewes in the anoestrous period to the point of becoming pregnant, it failed to favourably affect the number of lambs born per ewe lambing. In conclusion, flushing the ewes or administering a single dose of Ovostim was shown to be advantageous in comparison with untreated ewes or those given two doses of Ovostim. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The threat of bioterrorism has spurred research on the decontamination and containment of different agents. Anthrax [causative agent Bacillus anthracis (Ba)] is a disease that can lead to severe infections within human and animals, particularly when inhaled. This research investigated the use of spore-contaminated simulated runoff events into stormwater control measures (SCMs), which are designed to retain and improve the quality of runoff and may have the potential to filter and contain the spores. In this study, the effectiveness of a bioretention cell (BRC) and high flow media filter (HFMF) in Huron, Ohio, were evaluated for removal of Bacillus globigii (Bg) spores (a harmless cognate of Ba). Three 4–8 mm simulated runoff events were created for each SCM using a fire hydrant and Bg spores were injected into the runoff upstream of the SCM inlets. The BRC significantly (p < 0.001) outperformed the HFMF in reducing Bg concentrations and loads, with an average load reduction of 1.9 log (∼99% reduction) compared to 0.4 (∼60% reduction), respectively. A probable critical design factor leading to these differences was the infiltration rate of the media and subsequent retention time within the filters, which was supported by similar disparities in suspended solids reductions. Differences in spore removal may also have been due to particle size distribution of the HFMF, which was more gravelly than the bioretention cell. At 3 and 6 months after the-simulated runoff tests, soil samples taken from both SCMs, yielding detectable Bg spores within the top 15 cm of media, with increased spore concentrations where ponding occurred for longer durations during the tests. This suggests that forebays and areas near inlets may be hotspots for spore cleanup in a real-world bioterrorism incident. [Display omitted] • Bacillus anthracis releases may be partially contained by stormwater controls. • Removal of tracer spores tested within bioretention & high flow media filter. • In simulated runoff tests, media texture influenced spore removal rates. • Spore contamination levels maintained in SCM media 6 months after testing. • Stormwater control measures may be part of a series of decontamination efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Central venous catheters are widely used in clinical practice, and the incidence of central venous catheter occlusion is between 25 % and 38 %. The turbulence caused by the pulsatile flushing technique is harmful to the vascular endothelium and may lead to phlebitis. The low-speed continuous infusion catheter technique is a new type of continuous infusion that ensures that the catheter is always in a keep-vein-open state by continuous low-speed flushing; hence, avoiding the problem of catheter occlusion. To investigate the effectiveness of the low-speed continuous infusion catheter technique and the routine care of double-lumen central venous catheters. This was a prospective, randomized, controlled, open-label trial. Patients were recruited from 14 medical institutions in China between February and June 2023. In total, 251 patients were recruited, with 125 in the intervention group and 126 in the control group. Patients who used double-lumen central venous catheters for infusion treatment were selected, and those who met the sampling criteria were randomly divided into intervention and control groups using the random envelope method. The intervention group used the low-speed continuous infusion catheter technique to maintain catheter patency, whereas the control group used routine care with a trial period of 7 days. The primary outcome was the occlusion rate. The secondary outcomes included nursing satisfaction and complication rates of the two groups. After 7 days, the rate of catheter occlusion was 28.0 % (35/125, 95 % confidence interval (CI):0.203, 0.367) in the intervention group and 53.97 % (68/126, 95 % CI: 0.449–0.629) in the control group, with a statistically significant difference (χ2 = 17.488, p < 0.001); at 3 days of intervention, the rate of catheter blockage was 8.0 % (10/125, 95 % CI: 0.039–0.142) in the intervention group and 23.8 % (30/126, 0.167–0.322) in the control group, with a statistically significant difference (χ2 = 11.707, p < 0.001). Nurse satisfaction was significantly higher in the intervention group (115/125, 92.0 %, 95 % CI: 0.858–0.961) than in the control group (104/126, 82.54 %, 95 % CI: 0.748–0.887) (χ2 = 5.049, p = 0.025). There were no statistically significant complication rates in either group (p = 0.622). The low-speed continuous infusion catheter technique helps maintain catheter patency, improves nurse satisfaction, and provides a high level of safety. Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2200064007, www.chictr.org.cn). The first recruitment was conducted in February. https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=177311. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The remediation of in-situ microemulsion flushing for multiple chlorinated solvents contaminated groundwater is challenging, because different chlorinated solvent has major influence on microemulsion formation and solubilization behaviors. This work was conducted to evaluate the remediation effectiveness for various chlorinated solvents contaminated site and monitor the disturbance of groundwater during in-situ microemulsion flushing process. Groundwater at this site was contaminated with chlorobenzene (MCB), chloroaniline and nitrochlorobenzene. The medium layer was mainly composed of fine and silty sand, with average hydraulic conductivity of 4.97 m/d. Results of this field-scale test indicated in-situ microemulsion flushing successfully enhanced the apparent solubility of various chlorinated solvents. Post-flushing concentration of various chlorinated solvents were 1.33–71.6-fold the concentration of pre-flushing values at 10 sampling locations within the test zone. This field was flushed with 16.8 m3 microemulsion, removing approximately 18.49 kg chlorinated solvents. Besides, a trend in the desorption order of various chlorinated solvents was observed. The least hydrophobic pollutant was flushed first, followed by contaminants of increasing hydrophobicity. In addition, during remediation process, the indexes of groundwater fluctuated insignificantly, indicating the reagent had little disturbance to aquifer. This field work demonstrated the feasibility of in-situ microemulsion enhanced remediation via increasing apparent solubility of multiple chlorinated solvents. [Display omitted] • In-situ microemulsion flushing enhances apparent solubility of chlorinated solvent. • Field is flushed with 16.8 m3 microemulsion, removing 18.49 kg chlorinated solvent. • The desorption order exists during flushing multiple chlorinated solvents. • Microemulsion has little disturbance to aquifer environment during the flushing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In small and laboratory animals epididymal spermatozoa can be collected only by the mincing technique however, blood and cell debris contamination may adversely affect the quality of the samples. This study aimed at performing the retrograde flushing technique, for the first time, in the tomcat. In the first experiment attempts to insert a blunted needle into tomcats' ductus deferentes were made and the cannulation time and the success rate were recorded. In the second experiment, insertion of the needle into the ductus was carried out under a stereomicroscope for one testis, while the other was submitted to mincing for sperm recovery and the samples obtained from paired testes were compared. In the first study, only twenty-eight percent of the cannulation attempts were successful whereas in the second experiment, 91% of the deferentes were successfully cannulated: 80% of the ducts were cannulated in less than three minutes. The stereomicroscope-aided retrograde flushing samples showed significantly higher sperm viability, motility and velocities, as compared to those resulted from mincing. The domestic cat serves as a model for more than 36 species of wild felids; the developed stereomicroscope-aided retrograde flushing technique has the potential to become the gold standard method for harvesting spermatozoa of endangered species that have a small ductus deferens. • The tomcat ductus deferens could be cannulated under the stereomicroscope. • The cannulation could be performed in a short time with the stereomicroscope. • Compared to mincing, the retrograde flushing improved the sperm parameters. • The RF could be the gold standard for epididimal sperm collection in small animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Rosacea is a common inflammatory cutaneous condition with a complex yet unknown etiopathogenesis. Diet and certain food items are known to trigger or worsen rosacea symptoms, but conflicting and often inconsistent advice is given to patients regarding this link. We provide an up-to-date literature review on the relationship between rosacea and diet.Methods: Using the keywords "alcohol," "diet," "flushing," "food," "inflammation," "rosacea," "skin-gut axis" and "spice" we systemically searched the databases PubMed, MEDLINE and EMBASE for English-language articles in July 2020.Results: The most frequently reported triggers implicated in rosacea include alcohol, spicy food, cinnamaldehyde-containing foods (e.g., tomatoes, citrus fruits, chocolate), hot drinks, and histamine-rich foods (e.g., aged cheese, wine, processed meats). Some food items appear to play a protective role, such as omega-3, which appears to protect against ocular rosacea. The relationship between certain food items and the subtype of rosacea is varied, with inconsistent results shown in the few studies that examined this. As an example, alcohol worsens flushing and fatty food triggers both erythematotelangiectatatic and phymatous rosacea in susceptible individuals.Conclusion: While several food types appear to be associated with exacerbation of rosacea, there are no recommendations that can be applied to all patients. Further studies are needed to examine the exact link between diet and rosacea subtypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine if mesenteric traction syndrome (MTS) triggers increased systemic inflammation and endothelial cell dysfunction. Patients developing severe MTS had pronounced early IL6 elevations followed by endothelial cell damage. Furthermore, these processes were associated with increased postoperative morbidity. Objective: To determine whether mesenteric traction syndrome (MTS) leads to increased systemic inflammation and dysfunction of the glycocalyx and endothelial cell and whether this correlates with the degree of postoperative morbidity. Introduction: Severe MTS is associated with increased postoperative morbidity following major gastrointestinal surgery, but the pathophysiological mechanism has not been previously explored. Systemic inflammatory response and impaired glycocalyx and endothelial cells may be responsible for the development of symptoms. Methods: The study analyzed prospectively collected data from two cohorts (n = 67). The severity of the MTS response was graded intraoperatively and blood samples for PGI2, catecholamines, IL6, and endothelial biomarkers obtained at predefined time points. Results: Patients undergoing either esophagectomy (n = 45) or gastrectomy (n = 22) were included. Surgery led to significantly increased plasma concentrations of all biomarkers. Yet, patients who developed severe MTS had higher baseline epinephrine levels (p < 0.05) and higher levels of PGI2 (p < 0.05), Syndecan-1 (p < 0.001), and sVEGFR1 (p < 0.001). Peak values of IL6, Syndecan-1, sVEGFR1, and sTM all correlated to peak PGI2. Lastly, patients with high postoperative morbidity had higher baseline epinephrine (p = 0.009) and developed higher plasma IL6 (p = 0.007) and sTM (p = 0.022). Conclusion: The development of severe MTS during upper gastrointestinal surgery is associated with preoperative elevated plasma epinephrine and further a more pronounced proinflammatory response and damage to the vascular endothelium. The increased postoperative morbidity seen in patients with severe MTS may thus, in part, be explained by an inherent susceptibility towards an inappropriate secretion of PGI2, which leads to an increased surgical stress response and endothelial damage. These findings must be confirmed in a new prospective cohort. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mastocytosis is a rare disease characterized by infiltration of mast cells in various tissues like skin, bone marrow, liver, spleen, and gastrointestinal tract. Here, we present a case report of diffuse cutaneous mastocytosis (pseudoxanthomatous type) in a neonate which is a rare presentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sub-optimal productivity in cashew is common in tropical India due to inadequate attention on plant nutrient management. Identifying the nutrient constraints, its diagnosis and management are important for maximizing production in a sustainable manner. We established nutrient diagnostic norms for cashew that shall be useful for quick diagnosis of the nutrient requirement of cashew for devising rapid nutrient management schedule to improve the productivity. The optimal leaf nutrient status in cashew for nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium and sulfur ranged from 2.23 to 2.82, 0.13 to 0.18, 0.91 to 1.47, 0.92 to 1.39, 0.46 to 0.70 and 0.75 to 1.14% respectively. The optimal leaf status for micronutrients such as iron, manganese, zinc, copper, boron and molybdenum ranged as 285 to 398, 200 to 409, 54 to 74, 47 to 60, 22 to 46 and 3.0 to 4.4 mg kg−1. The regional survey on soil and leaf nutrient status of cashew in prominent cashew growing areas along coastal India revealed the nutrient constraints causing lower productivity levels. The cashew growing soils in India were predominantly deficient in nitrogen, potassium, calcium, magnesium, zinc and copper. The study indicated the ill effects of neglect of fertilizer and manure application in cashew on soil organic carbon, nitrogen and potassium, which adversely affected the nutrient uptake by cashew as evident from the leaf nutrient status. The study also highlighted the need to pay attention to soil ameliorants to correct soil acidity to make available calcium, magnesium and micronutrients such as zinc, copper and manganese. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To evaluate the reproductive response, metabolic state and body changes in Dorper and Katahdin ewes supplemented with two energy levels prior to insemination. Materials and methods. The animals used in this experiment were 14 Katahdin and 13 Dorper ewes distributed in two treatments, in which estrus had been synchronized. Fourteen days prior to synchronization of estrus, the ewes were distributed in two treatments according to the energy level of the diet, T1:2.0 and T2:2.5 Mcal kg-1 of ME. Feeding consisted of 14 days of adaptation and 14 of feeding with integral diet. At the start and finish of each study, measurements were made of dorsal fat thickness, area of the rib-eye, body weight and glucose and insulin concentrations. The principal reproductive parameters were measured, such as response to estrus, percentage of gestation and prolificity. Analyses of variance were made along with ji-squared tests to determine the effect of the energy level and genotype. Results. The genotype and energy level did not affect any of the variables measured, although it was found that with both energy levels there was an increase in glucose concentrations, as well as an increase in weight, body fat and area of the rib-eye. Conclusions. Because there was no difference in the reproductive parameters and body changes with feeding in the two energy levels, it is preferable to use the feed with 2.0 Mcal kg-1 of ME, given that it reduces costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• New leachate well technique for estimating contaminant transport parameters in MSW. • Use of water and measurement of EC worked well as a cheap tracer in landfills. • Verification of dual-porosity behaviour of MSW. • in situ field-scale estimates of mobile porosity and block diffusion time. • Apparent scaling relationship between size of test and observed block diffusion time. A new single well injection withdrawal (SWIW) test was trialled at four landfills using the tracers lithium and deuterium, and by injecting clean water and measuring electrical conductivity. The aim of the research was to develop a practical test for measuring lateral contaminant transport to aid in the design of landfill flushing. Borehole dilution tests using dyes were undertaken prior to each SWIW test to determine background flow velocities. SWIW tests were performed at different scales by varying the volume of tracer injected (1 to 5,800 m3) and the test duration (2 to 266 days). Tracers were used individually, simultaneously or sequentially to examine repeatability and scaling. Mobile porosities, estimated from first arrival times in observation wells and from model fitting ranged from 0.02 to 0.14. The low mobile porosities measured rule out a purely advective–dispersive system and support a conceptual model of a highly preferential dual-porosity flow system with localised heterogeneity. A dual-porosity model was used to interpret the results. The model gave a good fit to the test data in 7 out of 11 tests (where R2 ≥ 0.98), and the parameters derived are compatible with previous experiments in MSW. Block diffusion times were estimated to range from 12 to 6,630 h, with a scaling relationship apparent between the size of the test (volume of tracer used and/or the duration) and the observed block diffusion time. This scaling relationship means affordable small-scale tests can inform larger-scale flushing operations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nest survival is a key vital rate of game birds and frequently studied to guide population management. Common scientific protocols are invasive and often involve flushing females from their nests to assess nest contents and status. Biased inference of population dynamics, and thus improper management recommendations, may result if nest survival estimates are affected by researcher activities. We evaluated whether standard nest monitoring protocols for game birds biased estimates of nest survival for sharp-tailed grouse Tympanuchus phasianellus, a common ground-nesting bird in northern grassland ecosystems in the US. We hypothesized that flushing females from nests would negatively affect estimates of daily nest survival and result in biased inferences about population growth regardless of potentially mediating environmental conditions. Our results indicated that cumulative precipitation received during the nesting period had the largest effect on nest survival. Flushing sharp-tailed grouse from nests resulted in reduced nest survival during dry periods, although differences over the entire nesting period were not statistically significant. Downward-biased estimates of nest survival for females that were flushed did not significantly bias estimates of population growth rates. With minimal data loss, we successfully monitored nests of radio-marked females without flushing and recommend that researchers carefully consider potential biases related to research techniques when determining nest monitoring protocols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Peripheral intravenous catheters (PICs) patency techniques such as flushing are being developed. According to some studies, flushing can be used continuously or in pulsatile forms. This study aimed to compare the effects of pulsatile flushing (PF) and continuous flushing (CF) on time and type of PICs patency. Methods: In this double-blind randomized clinical trial, 71 patients were randomly assigned into two groups of PF (n=35) and CF (n=36). The PF protocol was performed as successive injections of 1 mL normal saline (N/S) per second (sec) with a delay of less than 1 sec until the completion of 5 mL of solution. However, CF protocol was performed by injecting 5 mL N/S within 5 sec without any delay before and after each medicine administration. Data related to the time and type of PICs patency were collected using a patency checklist every 12 hours (h) up to 96 h. The statistical analysis was done by R statistical software (Version 3.5.1). Results: The results showed that the number of PICs remaining open was not significantly different between PF and CF groups during 96 h. The highest number of PICs excluded from the study was related to the time of 96 h as a result of partial patency in the two groups. Conclusion: There was no difference between CF and PF regarding the time and type of PICs patency. Thus, both techniques can be used to maintain the catheter patency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The use of heparin and 0.9% saline solution is always controversial for central venous catheters. However, there is no systematic review or guideline about whether saline solution can replace heparin solution in adult cancer patients with totally implantable venous access ports (TIVAPs). The purpose of this review is to evaluate whether saline solution can replace heparin saline to lock TIVAPs. Methods: The following databases were searched: PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase, CINAHL and Ovid (January 1, 1982, and February 21, 2020). All statistical analyses of the meta‐analysis were completed using the Review Manager 5.3. Results: A total of 201 studies were identified from these databases after initial review, and four studies met inclusion criteria, including 2652 cases. There was little heterogeneity among the included studies (I2 < 30%), and all analyses were conducted by the fixed‐effects model. The total complications, catheter occlusions, catheter‐related bloodstream infections and other complication rates in the heparin solution group were higher than in the saline solution group. In the subgroup analysis of heparin concentration, total complication rates in the saline solution group were higher than with 50 U of heparin and lower than with 100 U of heparin. However, the differences in these complications were small, and no significant difference was observed (all P > 0.05). Conclusions: Based on existing clinical studies, we recommend that saline solution can replace 50 or 100 U/ml of heparin as a safe and effective flush solution for TIVAPs. SUMMARY STATEMENT: What is already known about this topic? Totally implantable venous access ports (TIVAPs) are more and more widely used in patients with cancer.Saline solution and heparin saline can both be used as lock solutions.The use of heparin is controversial for central venous catheters, and no systematic review addresses whether saline solution can replace heparin solution in adult cancer patients with TIVAPs. What this paper adds? The meta‐analysis indicated that the use of saline solution for locking TIVAPs did not increase the total complications, catheter occlusions, catheter‐related bloodstream infections and other complication rates. The implications of this paper: The results showed that saline solution can replace 50 or 100 U/ml of heparin as a safe and effective flush solution for TIVAPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electro-arc machining (EAM) is a novel type of electrical discharge machining (EDM) that adopts high-energy arc discharges to erode workpiece materials. The workpiece polarity and the dielectric medium flushing have complex effects on the machining process and the EAM results. To fully understand these effects is beneficial to reveal the mechanism of EAM. Two single-pulsed arc discharge experiments with factors, namely, workpiece polarity and flushing pressure, were conducted. As the experimental results, the craters were measured using the microscopy images and surface profiles. The experiments found clear evidence of the polarity effect. The arc root diameter of positive workpiece polarity was smaller than that of negative workpiece polarity, while the crater diameter of positive workpiece polarity was bigger than that of negative workpiece polarity. Additionally, the effects of flushing are obvious. The arc plasma was moved along the flushing direction, which turned the common round crater into a crater with a tail. The crater depth was unaffected by workpiece polarity in the experiments and grew bigger when flushing was adopted, which means that flushing was beneficial to the material removal in EAM. It was deduced that the material removal appeared in the head of the crater mostly while the tail was composed of neglectable pits. The bulge height was increased slowly with an increase in flushing pressure, which was against good gap state and high material removal. Based on the results of the experiments, it is suggested that the EAM processes should adopt both arc-breaking methods to get better machining results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electro-arc machining (EAM) is a novel type of electrical discharge machining (EDM) that adopts high-energy arc discharges to erode workpiece materials. The workpiece polarity and the dielectric medium flushing have complex effects on the machining process and the EAM results. To fully understand these effects is beneficial to reveal the mechanism of EAM. Two single-pulsed arc discharge experiments with factors, namely, workpiece polarity and flushing pressure, were conducted. As the experimental results, the craters were measured using the microscopy images and surface profiles. The experiments found clear evidence of the polarity effect. The arc root diameter of positive workpiece polarity was smaller than that of negative workpiece polarity, while the crater diameter of positive workpiece polarity was bigger than that of negative workpiece polarity. Additionally, the effects of flushing are obvious. The arc plasma was moved along the flushing direction, which turned the common round crater into a crater with a tail. The crater depth was unaffected by workpiece polarity in the experiments and grew bigger when flushing was adopted, which means that flushing was beneficial to the material removal in EAM. It was deduced that the material removal appeared in the head of the crater mostly while the tail was composed of neglectable pits. The bulge height was increased slowly with an increase in flushing pressure, which was against good gap state and high material removal. Based on the results of the experiments, it is suggested that the EAM processes should adopt both arc-breaking methods to get better machining results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Flushing with the manipulation of fatty acids, particularly polyunsaturated fatty acids, like linoleic and α-linolenic acids in the ration, is a strategy to raise the nutritional status of the female mammals to improve ovarian function and follicle development. This study was designed to investigate the effectiveness of flushing supplementation with different types of polyunsaturated and saturated fatty acids in stimulating follicle growth and development during estrus in Ettawa Grade does with a low initial body condition score (BCS ≤2). Materials and Methods: Eighteen Ettawa Grade does in the second parity, with an average body weight of 32.11±2.19 kg, were divided into three groups according to the fatty acid supplemented to their ration: (i) About 2.8% lauric acid flushing (group); (ii) 2.8% linoleic acid flushing (LA group); and (iii) 2.8% α-linolenic acid flushing (ALA group). The ration was formulated to be isocaloric (total digestible nutrient = 77%) and isonitrogenous (crude protein = 15%). The experiment was conducted for 35 days; that is, 14 days for acclimatization and synchronization of the estrous cycle and 21 days for fatty acid flushing until the appearance of the next estrus. A completely randomized design was applied. Results: According to the results, none of the different fatty acids in the ration affected the nutrient intakes, BCSs, average daily gains, and plasma glucose, cholesterol, and progesterone concentrations of the three groups of does. However, the BCSs (by 0.8-0.9) and the plasma cholesterol concentrations were higher after fatty acid flushing for 21 days than before the flushing period. The ALA group had the highest number of large-sized preovulatory follicles, whereas the LAURIC group had the highest plasma estradiol concentration during estrus. All three groups had similar plasma progesterone concentrations during estrus after fatty acid flushing. Conclusion: Flushing supplementation with 2.8% ALA from flaxseed oil gave the best results in terms of stimulating the highest number of large-sized preovulatory follicles in Ettawa Grade does. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present 2 cases of rosacea that were successfully managed with off-label treatment. The first is a case of painful, exuding papulopustular lesions of the nose treated with rifaximin, and the other is a case of severe, debilitating and painful flushing treated with sumatriptan. The cases support previous notions that gastrointestinal comorbidities may be related to papulopustular lesions and that flushing may be related to neurogenic inflammation and migraine. The cases also imply that a new approach to rosacea management, based on endotypes and comorbidities, may be warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Purging devices reduce water age in premise plumbing systems but increase water use. • Purging removes much variability in water ages, avoiding extreme ages entirely. • Smart purging used less water than scheduled purging and maintained low ages. • Larger purging volumes and frequencies result in lower water ages but higher use. • Purging has a larger impact on low occupancy homes. Higher water ages are linked with water quality decline as chlorine dissipates, temperatures become more favorable for microbial growth, and metals and organic matter leach from the pipes. Water fixtures with automated purging devices can limit water age in premise plumbing systems, but also increase water use. To develop purging strategies that lower age while also minimizing water use, the stochastic nature of water demands must be considered. In this research, a hydraulic plumbing network model, with stochastic demands at fixtures, was used to compare water age and water use for five purging conditions: purging at regular intervals, "smart" purging (considering the time of last use), purging with different volumes of water, purging at different fixtures, and the purging with different levels of home occupancy. Higher purging frequency and volume resulted in lower water ages, but higher water use. Purging greatly reduced the variability in water ages, avoiding extreme ages entirely. Water age was minimized by scheduling the purging around occupancy behavior, such as before the occupants wake up or return from work. Scheduled purging used more water than smart purging. Purging after 12 h of nonuse used only 55% of the additional water required for purging every 12 h. Purging after 24 h of nonuse at the kitchen tap and shower used only 38% of the additional water required for purging every 24 h, while maintaining lower water ages and removing the variability in water ages. While larger purging volumes had a greater impact on water age, there were diminishing returns. Purging has a larger impact on low-occupancy homes because fixtures have less frequent use. Overall, this research provides a methodology to compare purging strategies that minimize both water age and water use. While the numerical results presented here are only valid for the specific layout and usage habits, they provide insights and trends applicable to other cases. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]