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Rapid expansion (RE) of tropical cyclones (TCs) is a structural evolution that specifies the dramatic geometric synthesis increase in TC size. Its destructive potential is comparable or even more pronounced than that by the TC rapid intensification but receives limited attention. In this study, we utilise the ERA5‐derived 41‐year (1979–2019) global climatology of TC outer size data (i.e., effective azimuthal‐area‐average radius of 34‐kt gale‐force surface winds, R34EFF) to define RE and reveal the global climatology of RE for the first time, where RE is defined as the 90th percentile of global expanding samples (i.e., ΔR34EFF > 50 NM per 24 h; 1 NM = 1.852 km). Statistics show that 32% of all TCs underwent RE at least once during their lifetime. Climatologically, the proportion of RE decreased significantly in the globe (7%) and Northern Hemisphere (9%), particularly in the western North Pacific (8%). Seasonally, the RE proportion peaks in the early and late TC seasons. Spatiotemporally, distinct spatiotemporal variations and interdecadal changes of RE are found. In view of TC lifecycle, TCs likely reach their lifetime maximum intensity and lifetime maximum size after RE initiation. The duration of RE varies widely from basin to basin, while its seasonal variability is relatively smaller. Regarding the relationship between RE and TC intensity, the intensity of rapidly expanding TCs may increase or decrease with the former being more likely. The initial size and intensity of rapidly expanding TCs tend to be small (45 NM) and weak (60 kt), respectively. This study advances the understanding of RE from a global perspective, laying important groundwork for future study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reconstructing biological invasions from historical sources can provide insights into how they occur but are difficult to do when invasions are poorly documented. Genetic signatures left by invaders can also offer insights into invasion routes, points of origin and general biology but often present conclusions that are contradictory to expectations. Here, we test the ability of continental‐wide microsatellite genotype data from 29 loci and 3122 samples to reconstruct the well‐documented invasion of red foxes Vulpes vulpes from the United Kingdom into Australia over 150 years ago, an invasion that has led to the extinction of many native species. Our analysis reveals several key signals of invasion evident in Australian foxes. They display lower levels of diversity than foxes sampled from the UK, exhibit clines in diversity from the point of introduction (south‐east Australia) to the edge of their range, and show strong evidence of allele surfing in westerly and north‐easterly directions. These characteristics are consistent with a single point of origin followed by rapid expansion in westerly and north‐easterly directions as suggested by historical records. We also find little genetic structure in foxes across Australia with only the vast Nullarbor Plains and Great Victoria Desert region presenting a detectable barrier to their dispersal. As such, no mainland region within the current range of foxes can be considered genetically isolated and therefore appropriate for localised eradication efforts. Overall, our analyses demonstrate the ability of comprehensive population genetic studies to reconstruct invasion histories even after more than 80 years since colonisation was stabilised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Tropical cyclone (TC) has brought huge losses to coastal areas, whose intensity and size are both important indicators of destruction. The Northwest Pacific is the area with the most TCs generated. Due to the lack of effective observation methods and monitoring information, the TC operational centers of coastal countries or regions have not yet established complete TC outer-core size prediction and testing service. Thus, to select factors that significantly impact TC size changes and improve TC size forecast, statistical analysis is carried out on the climatological characteristics and the lifetime covariation characteristics of intensity and outer-core size (selected as the radius of damaging-force winds, R26) over the Northwest Pacific from July to November during 2004-2020, using the tropical cyclone best track data from JTWC (Joint Typhoon Warning Center) and SHIPS (Statistical Hurricane Intensity Prediction Scheme) reanalysis data. The results show that TC intensity and size peak in October, mainly showing a higher proportion of strong and large-sized TCs with longer lifetime at sea than in other months. Generally, the TC size expands with the increase in intensity and shrinks as the TC weakens. TCs reach the lifetime maximum size (LMS) later than the lifetime maximum intensity (LMI), with a mean lag time of 40 hours. Compared to the TC rapid intensification and LMI, the mean meridional positions of TC rapid expansion and LMS are closer to the coastal continent. Initial vortex size of TC affects the size development, especially LMS. Specifically, 58% of small initial vortices maintain the size in the small to medium category, while 71% of vortices with large initial size develop to large vortices in later periods, with 59% intensify to strong TCs (no less than 59 m·s-1) at LMI stage. Compared to small initial vortices, vortices with larger initial sizes tend to attain the greater integrated kinetic energy. The size of the latter stage has a high correlation (no less than 0.45) with the initial R26 for 66 h, indicating that the initial size of TCs can be a key predictor. The peak of size change rate (ΔR26) is located at moderate intensity (25~50 m·s-1) and the peak intensity change rate (ΔVmax) is located at medium and small size (50-100 km). The outer-core size is more likely to expand outward and even leads to rapid expansion under the conditions of stronger upper air divergence, higher relative humidity, larger ocean heat content and moderate vertical shear.

In this work, spherical nanoparticles to be used in cosmetic, agro food or pharmaceutical industries have been directly precipitated from olives leaves in one-step RESS process. The leaves were brought into contact with supercritical CO2, and a fraction of the compounds from the flavone and flavonol families that can be found in the leaves were dissolved; then, by depressurizing the vessel, these compounds formed particles in the nanometer range. A complete factorial design was generated to thoroughly determine the influence from the main parameters on the RESS process with respect to the precipitated nanoparticles and their heterogeneity. Their antioxidant activity was also evaluated. Different pressures (250–350 bar), temperatures (60 and 100 °C), leaves sample weights (2 and 4 g) and cosolvent volumes, namely ethanol (9 and 18 mL), were studied as the main parameters that could affect the solvation and precipitation of the particle with active compounds in the leaves. Other parameters such as contact time (1 h) or nozzle size diameter (100 μm) remained unchanged. The antioxidant activity was evaluated by means of the radical scavenging method using the radical 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazole (DPPH). Spherical particles with diameters in the range of 55 nm to 4 µm were obtained. Lower pressures and higher temperatures seemed to result in a reduction of the mean particle size. Greater volume of cosolvent is also recommended to reduce mean particle size. However, lower pressure, temperature and volume of cosolvent seems to promote a greater homogeneity of the particles. By means of chromatographic analyses, the main compounds, responsible for the antioxidant activity, such as oleuropein, quercetin or apigenin among others were identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The livestock product consumption per capita in China has almost doubled in the past three decades. The planting of green fodder has increased in the agropastoral ecotone of China to meet the increasing demand for livestock feed, and the green fodder expansion can have subsequent consequences on the environment. However, information on the area and distribution of green fodder is very limited. Here, we developed a pixel- and phenology-based algorithm to map green fodder and track its dynamics in the northeastern Tibetan Plateau, a typical alpine pasture region in China, using all the available Landsat images and Google Earth Engine (GEE). We developed a simple approach for the rapid identification of green fodder fields by using a new green fodder index that considers the unique phenology of green fodder, which has higher greenness and water content in the late growing season than other vegetation. A total of 858 Landsat images were used to generate green fodder maps in northeastern Tibetan Plateau (including Zeku, Guinan, and Tongde Counties) in three periods (circa 2010, 2015, and 2019). The overall accuracies of our green fodder maps were 93–97% and the Matthews correlation coefficients were 0.76–0.83. We found a rapid expansion of green fodder from 16.3 km2 in 2010 to 136.1 km2 in 2019. Newly cultivated green fodder occurred in both existing croplands and natural grasslands. Our study demonstrated the potential of the phenology-based approach, all the available Landsat images, and GEE for tracing the historical dynamics of green fodder at 30-m resolution in alpine regions. Our findings advance our understanding of changes in forage area, production, the supply–demand gap, and the ecological and climatic consequences of green fodder expansion.

DOI: 10.26650/eor.2018.465Purpose Surgically assisted rapid maxillary expansion (SARME) is a common treatment technique in the correction of maxillary transverse deficiency. The purpose of this study was to evaluate nasal and palatal skeletal changes following SARME using Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) and posterior anterior (PA) cephalograms. Materials and Methods In this retrospective study, the radiographic images obtained from 14 patients with transverse maxillary deficiency before treatment and 6 months after SARME operations were evaluated. The changes in nasal bone width and palatal bone width were measured on CBCT. The changes in basal maxillary width, nasal cavity width and angular measurements were evaluated on PA cephalograms. Results Nasal floor width was measured at the levels of upper first premolar teeth and molar teeth which significantly increased following SARME (p=0.005 and 0.017 respectively). Palatal bone width between first premolar teeth and molar teeth also significantly increased (p=0.003 and 0.002 respectively). Basal maxillary width (p=0.026), nasal cavity width (p=0.024) and other angular measurements also significantly increased (p

Purpose Surgically assisted rapid maxillary expansion (SARME) is a common treatment technique in the correction of maxillary transverse deficiency. The purpose of this study was to evaluate nasal and palatal skeletal changes following SARME using Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) and posterior anterior (PA) cephalograms. Materials and Methods In this retrospective study, the radiographic images obtained from 14 patients with transverse maxillary deficiency before treatment and 6 months after SARME operations were evaluated. The changes in nasal bone width and palatal bone width were measured on CBCT. The changes in basal maxillary width, nasal cavity width and angular measurements were evaluated on PA cephalograms. Results Nasal floor width was measured at the levels of upper first premolar teeth and molar teeth which significantly increased following SARME (p=0.005 and 0.017 respectively). Palatal bone width between first premolar teeth and molar teeth also significantly increased (p=0.003 and 0.002 respectively). Basal maxillary width (p=0.026), nasal cavity width (p=0.024) and other angular measurements also significantly increased (p

• The structure, duplication, evolution, functional enrichment of TgWOXs were analyzed. • TgWOX11 demonstrated significant expression during the rapid elongation phase. • TgMYB3 in regulating TgWOX11 by binding to its promoter. • TgWOX11 directly activated the TgXTH7 promoter, boosting its expression. WUSCHEL-related homeobox (WOX) transcription factors (TFs) are key regulators that oversee various cellular and biological activities, as well as signaling pathways, in plant growth and development. However, the specific role of the WOX gene family in the development of ovulate and staminate strobili remains largely unknown. To address this gap, a study was conducted using Torreya grandis. Initially, 15 WOX genes were isolated from the T. grandis genome and classified into three clades. Subsequent analyses encompassed evolutionary relationships, motif composition, conservative structural domains, and gene structure. Through co-expression analysis based on RNA-seq data and morphological assessments, it was discovered that TgWOX11 exhibited significant expression during the rapid elongation phase in both ovulate and staminate strobili. Furthermore, through dual-luciferase assays and EMSA, we revealed the crucial role of TgMYB3 in regulating TgWOX11 by binding to its promoter. The RT-qPCR and Y1H analysis revealed that TgWOX11 directly activated the promoter of TgXTH7 , leading to an increased expression of TgXTH7 in the TgWOX11 -OE group compared to the control group in the ovulate strobilus. These findings provide valuable support for the role of WOX genes in the development of strobili in gymnosperms. Additionally, they offer new perspectives for the breeding of T. grandis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Surgically assisted rapid maxillary expansion (SARME) is a common treatment technique in the correction of maxillary transverse deficiency. The purpose of this study was to evaluate nasal and palatal skeletal changes following SARME using Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) and posterior anterior (PA) cephalograms. Materials and Methods: In this retrospective study, the radiographic images obtained from 14 patients with transverse maxillary deficiency before treatment and 6 months after SARME operations were evaluated. The changes in nasal bone width and palatal bone width were measured on CBCT. The changes in basal maxillary width, nasal cavity width and angular measurements were evaluated on PA cephalograms. Results: Nasal floor width was measured at the levels of upper first premolar teeth and molar teeth which significantly increased following SARME (p=0.005 and 0.017 respectively). Palatal bone width between first premolar teeth and molar teeth also significantly increased (p=0.003 and 0.002 respectively). Basal maxillary width (p=0.026), nasal cavity width (p=0.024) and other angular measurements also significantly increased (p<0.05). Conclusion: Nasal and palatal skeletal transverse dimensions increased following SARME. Due to the enlargement of the nasal floor and nasal cavity, it is likely to improve air pass through the nose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the HR initiatives and managerial factors that contributed towards making Avari Hotel a learning organization and ensuring its continuous success and rapid expansion in the International world. In-depth interviews and analysis of existing organizational documents and secondary resources were referred in this case study. The main findings of the study attributed its success to the consistent hard work of the owners and senior management in meeting and maintaining the international standards of five star hotel properties while sustaining and developing its own unique selling elements distinguishing Avari chain from its competitors. HR initiatives for employee retention and the functional role of HR in areas as ensuring safe, healthy and happy workplace, employee care, communication, recognition, work environment and culture, recruitment training and development has played a major role in transforming it into a learning organization Although the strategic management at Avari Hotel, Lahore is in action to address the environment and competitive pressures, there is a strong need that management practices at Avari remain aligned with their business objectives in order to remain a force in hospitality industry and retain their market position for strong, unique and favorable brand associations.

Dissolution pressure and nozzle temperature effects on particle size and distribution were investigated for RESS (Rapid Expansion of Supercritical Solution) process. Supercritical CO2 was used as solvent and Ibuprofen was applied as the model component in all runs. The resulting Ibuprofen nano-particles (about 50 nm in optimized runs) were analyzed by SEM and laser diffraction particle size analyzer systems. Results show that in low supercritical pressure ranges, depending on the solvent and solid component properties (Lower than 105 bar for Ibuprofen-CO2 system), nozzle temperature should be as low as possible (80-90˚C for Ibuprofen-CO2 system). In the other hand in high supercritical pressure ranges (above 105 bar), high nozzle temperatures work better. The border line of these two areas depends on the solvent phase behavior. Rapid Expansion of Supercritical Solution into a liquid solvent (RESOLV) was also studied with and without the presence of surfactant and compared with RESS process by measuring of formed particles size, size distribution and dissolution rate. Results show that the RESS process generally creates better conditions for achieving fine and uniform organic powders (with mean particles size of 40-180 nm), in contrast to the RESOLV method (minimum particles size of 80-400 nm).

Background Liposomes are spherical phospholipid vesicles with the capability of versatile microencapsulation of hydrophilic and lipophilic compounds. Organic solvent residue has always been a concern in conventional methods of liposome generation. Scope and approach Dense gas techniques using supercritical carbon dioxide as the phospholipid-dissolving agent can provide a green solution for reduction or avoidance of organic solvent use. Key findings and conclusions In this review, conventional and dense gas processes of liposomal microencapsulation are evaluated. Comprehensively understanding the current progress of supercritical fluid techniques for liposomal microencapsulation will be helpful for development of a non-toxic continuous process of this application in the food and related industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arabis serrata ( Brassicaceae), a perennial plant widely distributed along the Japanese Archipelago, occurs in various habitats: for example, limestone zones, serpentine barrens, volcanic soils, and roadsides. It likely survived by adapting to its surrounding environment, resulting in great morphological and ecological variation. In this study, we performed a phylogeographic analysis to examine past changes in the distribution of A. serrata following climate oscillations during the Pleistocene. To cover most of A. serrata's range, leaves were collected from eight to ten individuals randomly selected from each of 37 populations in the Japanese Archipelago. Two chloroplast noncoding regions of the samples were amplified and sequenced: trnT( GGU)- psbD and trnH( GUG)- psbA spacers. Twenty-five haplotypes were detected and distinguished by 31 substitutions. Four main haplotypes were observed in many populations distributed throughout the Japanese Archipelago. According to the genetic boundaries detected using the Monmonier algorithm, A. serrata is clustered into four groups, each including several populations: Hokkaido Island, northern mainland Honshu, central Japan, and western Japan. The boundaries, however, were not robust because all genetic parameters did not support the differentiation among groups. These results indicate the absence of an obvious geographic structure in the distribution of A. serrata, suggesting that this species has experienced a rapid range expansion in postglacial times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Axisymmetric rapid expansion of supercritical carbon dioxide is investigated in this article. The extended generalized Bender equation of state is used to give a good description of the fluids over a wide range of pressure and temperature conditions. The locations of Mach disks are analyzed and compared with an experimental correlation for the case where there is no plate positioned in front of the nozzle exit. It is found that the disagreement between our numerical results and the experimental formula is very small when the pressure ratio is small, and increases as the pressure ratio increases. It is also found that with different equations of state, the predicted positions of Mach disks do not differ a lot, but the temperature profiles in the chamber differ a lot. The case where there is a plate positioned in front of the nozzle exit is also studied in this article. A universal similarity solution is obtained. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 61: 317-332, 2015 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we numerically study particle formation in the rapid expansion of supercritical solution (RESS) process in a two dimensional, axisymmetric geometry, for a benzoic acid + CO 2 system. The fluid is described by the classical Navier–Stokes equation, with the thermodynamic pressure being replaced by a generalized pressure tensor. Homogenous particle nucleation, transport, condensation and coagulation are described by a general dynamic equation, which is solved using the method of moments. The results show that the maximal nucleation rate and number density occurs near the nozzle exit, and particle precipitation inside the nozzle might not be ignored. Particles grow mainly across the shocks. Fluid in the shear layer of the jet shows a relatively low temperature, high nucleation rate, and carries particles with small sizes. On the plate, particles within the jet have smaller average size and higher geometric mean, while particles outside the jet shows a larger average size and a lower geometric mean. Increasing the preexpansion temperature will increase both the average particle size and standard deviation. The preexpansion pressure does not show a monotonic dependency with the average particle size. Increasing the distance between the plate and the nozzle exit might decrease the particle size. For all the cases in this paper, the average particle size on the plate is on the order of tens of nanometers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background aims. The high level of complexity of current Good Manufacturing Practice-compliant methods of manufacturing hampers rapid and broad application of treatment with tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). Methods. To ensure higher applicability of TIL production to laboratory routine, a practical and simple protocol of TIL manufacturing with the use of a closed-system bioreactor was developed and implemented at our institution. Results. This protocol enabled significant work load reduction during the most labor-intense step of TIL expansion, and allowed generation of high-quality TIL products, which mediated clinical regression in patients with metastatic melanoma. Conclusions. Implementation of simplified methods of TIL expansion will speed up dissemination of TIL methods worldwide and will increase patient access to this highly effective treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: New bone formation is known to occur between the opened palatal bones after rapid mid-palatal expansion (RME), although the time-dependent changes in the mid-palatal suture after RME have not been fully examined. Thus, we investigated time-dependent morphological changes in the mid-palatal suture using in vivo micro-computed tomography (mCT) and the expression of bone morphogenetic factors. RME was performed by inserting a 1.5-mm-thick circular metal ring between the maxillary incisors of rats, and morphological changes in the mid-palatal suture were investigated using in vivo mCT imaging after RME. Bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) and insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) expression in the suture were also examined using reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry. The bone volume of the mid-palatal suture decreased after RME to a minimum of −0.34mm3 on day 12, then increased with bone formation over time and reached −0.13mm3 on day 24. Significant increases in BMP-2 and IGF-I mRNA expression after RME were found on day 3 compared with day 0. By immunohistochemistry, BMP-2 and IGF-I were detected in osteoblasts on days 5 and 7, in endothelial cells of blood vessels, and fibroblasts on day 7. Expansion of the mid-palatal suture continues for 12 days after a single RME, and restoration requires more than 30 days. Additionally, BMP-2 and IGF-I may play important roles in the restoration process. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Rapid expansion of subcritical solutions into liquid solvents (RESOLV) was able to consistently produce catechin (CTC)-loaded poly(l-lactide) (PLLA) nanoparticles. The effects of CTC concentration and processing conditions – pre-expansion temperature and pressure, and degree of saturation – on the size and morphology of CTC-loaded PLLA nanoparticles were investigated, as well as the loading capacity (LC), entrapment efficiency (EE), and release of CTC. RESOLV experiments were carried out with 0.1wt% CTC+0.2wt% PLLA and 0.2wt% CTC+0.2wt% PLLA solutions in mixtures of EtOH and CO2 (3:2, wt/wt) with pre-expansion temperature and pressure of 60–100°C and 265–325bar, respectively. The obtained CTC-loaded PLLA nanoparticles were spherical, with average sizes, LC, and EE ranges of ∼30–40nm, 2.4–7.3%, and 4.7–22.0%, respectively. CTC concentration, pre-expansion temperature, and degree of saturation had significant effects on LC and EE of CTC, without affecting the size of composite nanoparticles. The LC and EE of CTC increased with increasing pre-expansion temperature and degree of saturation, and with decreasing CTC concentration. The release profiles of CTC from the nanoparticles exhibited an initial stage of burst release (first 8h) followed by a sustained release (∼1–9 days). Furthermore, the fraction of CTC being released from the nanoparticles decreased with increasing the degree of saturation of subcritical solutions prior to rapid expansion and with increasing the LC of CTC. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Naproxen has been processed with supercritical fluids in order to improve the dissolution rate and bioavailability. Microparticles of naproxen have been obtained by a Rapid Expansion of Supercritical Solutions (RESS) process in which carbon dioxide has been used as a solvent and methanol as a cosolvent. The influence of extraction pressure (200–300bar) and extraction temperature (60°C and 100°C) on the naproxen precipitation has also been investigated. In general, the morphology of the precipitated particles improved and particle size (PS) decreased in comparison to the raw material. Lower extraction pressure and higher extraction temperature led to a smaller particle size. On the other hand, a supercritical antisolvent (SAS) process has been applied due to the relative medium solubility values of naproxen in supercritical carbon dioxide, with precipitation obtained successfully in all cases. The initial concentration of the solution and the solvent effect has both been analysed. Morphologies and mean diameter ranges have been analysed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the influence on crystallinity of both supercritical processes has been evaluated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A method of rapid expansion of supercritical solutions into a liquid solvent (RESOLV) was used to precipitate and stabilize ultrafine particles of a poorly water soluble drug, Fenofibrate (FNB). In order to control particle size and its distribution (PSD), which are greatly affected by the inevitable growth and agglomeration, supercritical solutions of FNB prepared in SC CO2 at 100–200bar and 333K, were expanded in water with stabilizers using fine nozzles with diameters of 127–762μm and length varying between 3 and 6cm. Stabilizers such as Tween 80, Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate (SDS), Pluronic F-68, Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC), and Sodium Alginate (SA) were used. Synergistic effect of SDS with polymeric stabilizers such as HPMC and Sodium Alginate was also examined. Co-precipitation of FNB with Poly (lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) was attempted to minimize particle growth and prevent agglomeration. Electrostatic stabilization compared to steric stabilization was found to be more effective in controlling PSD. FNB particles with sizes from 500nm to 5μm could be precipitated with the use of different stabilizers. Overall, SDS was found to be a better stabilizer resulting in almost 66% particles less than 1μm, which remained stable after 24h. Further, minor synergistic effects or PLGA co-precipitation or Sodium Alginate with SDS were observed. Finally, in order to increase practicality of this approach, multiple expansions of supercritical solutions of FNB in to a single collection sample were carried out to achieve higher particle concentrations of FNB in aqueous suspensions, albeit at the expense of increased particle size. However, even at high suspension concentration of 1.8mg/mL, average particle size was under 3μm, and stable after 24h, comparing very favorably with other approaches to produce FNB suspensions with high drug loading. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Summary: Background: Tissue expansion has been widely used to provide additional soft tissue for clinical reconstruction. Rapid expansion requires a much shorter clinical period than conventional expansion; however, less natural skin growth occurs resulting in a larger stretch-back ratio and insufficient extra soft tissue for clinical use. In this study, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) was used in the inflation phase of rapid expansion to increase natural skin growth. Methods: Twelve rabbits were divided into two groups. Each group received rapid expander inflation every day. One group received HBOT and the other did not. Blood flow in the expanded skin of each rabbit was assayed in the 10-day inflation phase. After the inflation phase, a rectangular expanded flap of each rabbit was harvested. The instant stretch-back ratio, tension, weight and histological characteristics of the flaps were evaluated. Results: (1) After the second inflation day, the mean blood flow of the HBOT group became significantly higher than that of the control with each day (P < 0.05). At the last day, the blood flow of the HBOT group increased to 131 ± 17 pu, while the control group decreased to 35 ± 5 pu. (2) The mean instant stretch-back ratio of the HBOT group under no-tension conditions was 29 ± 4%, which was significantly less than that of the control group, 46 ± 3% (P < 0.01). (3) The mean flap tension of the HBOT group was 15.3000 ± 1.47648 g and 12.9833 ± 0.73598 g in the transverse and longitudinal axis, respectively, both significantly smaller than that of the control group (33.9167 ± 4.78390 g and 26.5000 ± 2.45031 g, respectively) (P < 0.01). (4) Mean per unit flap weight of the HBOT group was 0.221 ± 0.005 g cm−2, significantly heavier (P < 0.01) than that of the control group (0.143 ± 0.010 g cm−2). (5) Histologically, the epidermal layer and thickness of the expanded skin of the HBOT group were much thicker than those of the control group, and more vessels were visible in the subcutaneous tissue. Conclusions: The use of HBOT in the inflation phase of rapid expansion can effectively promote blood flow in the expanded skin, increase its natural skin growth and reduce the instant stretch-back ratio and tension of expanded skin. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Poly( l-lactide) (PLLA) nanoparticles loaded with asiatic acid (AA) were successfully produced by rapid expansion of a subcritical solution into an aqueous receiving solution containing a dispersing agent. A mixture of carbon dioxide (CO) and ethanol (EtOH) with a weight ratio of 1:1 was used as the solvent for AA and PLLA. Two surfactants, Pluronic F127 and sodium dodecyl sulfate were employed. The former was found to be more effective for stabilizing AA-loaded PLLA nanoparticles, as a rapid expansion into a 0.1 wt% Pluronic F127 solution produced a stable nanosuspension consisting mainly of well-dispersed, individual nanoparticles. The effects of rapid expansion-processing conditions-AA to PLLA weight ratio and pre-expansion temperature (T)-on the size and morphology of composite nanoparticles, and the loading capacity and entrapment efficiency of AA in PLLA nanoparticles, were systematically investigated. It was found that AA-loaded PLLA nanoparticles with a size range of 30-100 nm were consistently fabricated by rapid expansion at T of 70-100 °C and AA to PLLA weight ratios of 1:2 and 1:4, and with a constant pre-expansion pressure of 330 bar. The T and AA to PLLA weight ratio had no significant effects on the size of the nanoparticles. The AA to PLLA weight ratio is a controlling parameter for both the loading capacity and the entrapment efficiency of AA in PLLA nanoparticles. The loading capacity and entrapment efficiency increased from 8-11 to 16-21 wt%, and 38-57 to 50-62 wt%, respectively, when the AA to PLLA weight ratio changed from 1:4 to 1:2. However, increasing the T from 70 to 100 °C decreased both the loading capacity and entrapment efficiency of AA in PLLA nanoparticles by ~20-30%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mixing of binary mixtures of nanopowders afforded by rapid expansion of high pressure and supercritical suspensions (REHPS) is investigated to examine the roles of two previously reported deagglomeration mechanisms. The quality of mixing was characterized through intensity and scale of segregation using concentration data obtained through energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy; the corresponding deagglomeration was quantified using differential mobility and image analyses in conjunction with electron microscopy. Increasing the pressure from which expansion was carried out, and decreasing the nozzle diameter led to improved deagglomeration. However, increased pressure alone did not influence the mixture quality, which was found to also depend on the scale of mixedness of the constituents before transport through the nozzle, establishing that the REHPS mixing is significantly improved by improving the quality of the premix. The scale of segregation correlated with the size of the most energetic eddies present during flow through the nozzle, both of which increased with nozzle diameter, corroborating the importance of previously reported shear-induced deagglomeration mechanism. Finally, REHPS was also shown to be capable of deagglomerating carbon nanotube bundles and mix them well with alumina, silica, and titania at submicron scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study which investigated the deagglomeration of suspensions of nanoparticle aggregates via rapid expansion of supereritical or high-pressure suspension. The size distribution of fragmented nanopowders exiting the nozzle a attached to a pressure vessel was characterized in the study via online Scanning Mobility Particle Spectrometer (SMPS) and Aerodynamic Particle Sizer (APS) and offline Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) imaging.

Abstract: Adoptive cell therapy (ACT) for metastatic melanoma involves the ex vivo expansion and re-infusion of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) obtained from resected specimens. With an overall objective response rate of 56%, this T-cell immunotherapy provides an appealing alternative to other therapies, including conventional therapies with lower response rates. However, there are significant regulatory and logistical concerns associated with the ex vivo activation and large-scale expansion of these cells. The best current practice uses a rapid expansion protocol (REP) consisting of an ex vivo process that occurs in tissue culture flasks (T-flasks) and gas-permeable bags, utilizes OKT3 (anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody), recombinant human interleukin-2, and irradiated peripheral blood mononuclear cells to initiate rapid lymphocyte growth. A major limitation to the widespread delivery of therapy to large numbers of melanoma patients is the open system in which a REP is initiated. To address this problem, we have investigated the initiation, expansion and harvest at clinical scale of TIL in a closed-system continuous perfusion bioreactor. Each cell product met all safety criteria for patient treatment and by head-to-head comparison had a similar potency and phenotype as cells grown in control T-flasks and gas-permeable bags. However, the currently available bioreactor cassettes were limited in the total cell numbers that could be generated. This bioreactor may simplify the process of the rapid expansion of TIL under stringent regulatory conditions thereby enabling other institutions to pursue this form of ACT. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Coprecipitation of active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) with additives can provide the ability to add functionality to API''s at early stages of drug discovery and synthesis. It is with this objective that a number of drugs were recrystallized in the presence of structurally related additives. The rapid expansion of supercritical solution (RESS) process was evaluated to recrystallize the drug–additive mixtures. Results of RESS aided coprecipitation studies involving twelve drug–additive mixtures are reported in this manuscript. Characterization of these mixtures revealed a number of interesting phenomena. These include habit modification, solubility enhancement, particle size reduction, eutectic formation, reduction in crystallinity, amorphous conversion, hydrate formation, polymorph conversion and selective extraction. In viewing each of these phenomena from an application standpoint, this manuscript serves as proof of concept for altering the physicochemical and mechanical properties of API''s using supercritical fluid (SCF) coprecipitation. It was concluded from these studies that the rapid crystallization conditions offered by the SCF media alone does not provide the ability to consistently dope crystals. Competing mechanisms based on the relative solubility of drugs and additives in SCF media, as well as the selectivity of SCF solvents are to be taken into consideration while undertaking coprecipitations. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Tissue expansion has been used as a technique to increase the amount of skin (and/or soft tissues) available for closing a defect or reconstructing an anatomic unit. Although the technique has undergone many modifications, the basic principles have remained more or less constant. The shortcomings of tissue expansion have remained unsolved for many years, namely, long periods of expansion with concomitant abnormal appearance with increased risk of complications over this extended period. Decreasing the expansion period would significantly contribute to patient convenience, decreased costs, and improved acceptance of the technique. This would need to be done within a background of safety without compromise to the reconstructive effort. With minor modification to the existing tissue expanders and their attachments together with modified patient-controlled infusion devices, a new method has been devised for tissue expansion in which the patient can control and expedite the entire process. As “proof of concept,” 10 patients were selected for this trial. All had undergone mastectomies without concomitant radiotherapy. Successful full expansion, beginning the day after surgery, was achieved in all cases in approximately 3 weeks with minimal complications. Patent pending design modifications have been made that expedite the process, making it easier, more efficient, and cheaper to achieve full expansion. Although the numbers in this series were small, proof of concept was achieved, and trials are ongoing with increasing numbers expected. The concept is applicable to all forms of tissue expansion, including aesthetic indications such as hair restoration, tubular breast correction, and the like. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A set of analytical equations is derived for the estimation of the average diameter attained by particles that are generated by the rapid expansion of a supercritical solution (RESS). Applying the simplified model to one specific, but nevertheless representative set of experimental conditions for RESS processing, theoretical findings from earlier work could be generally confirmed and new insight was gained. Particles generated by RESS through an expansion device having a cylindrical section with a small aspect ratio will generally not attain average diameters of more than 20–50nm before passing through the critical cross section since the time available for growth by condensation is limited to a few microseconds. Comparing three different driving mechanisms for growth due to coagulation, it was found that the effects of slip flow differences can be seen as most promising to significantly improve existing RESS models. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objectives Monitoring and evaluation of national antiretroviral therapy (ART) programs is vital, but routine, standardized assessment of national ART patient monitoring systems has not been established. Malawi has undertaken an ambitious ART scale-up effort, with over 57 000 patients initiated on ART by June 2006. We assessed the national ART monitoring and evaluation system in Malawi to ensure that the response to the epidemic was being monitored efficiently and effectively, and that data collected were useful. Methods The evaluation, performed in August 2005, generally followed the Updated Guidelines for Evaluating Public Health Surveillance Systems (CDC) and Interim Patient Monitoring Guidelines for HIV Care and ART (WHO). Assessment was conducted with qualitative methods, including twelve ART site visits, with standardized key informant interviews with ART clinic coordinators, clinical staff, and data managers, at each site. Meetings were also held with key governmental stakeholders, including Ministry of Health and National AIDS Commission. Results The national monitoring and evaluation system devised by the Ministry of Health HIV/AIDS Unit is successful in achieving its objectives, and facilitates important aspects of the national response to HIV. Several basic changes in the data collection tools and system would facilitate more effective long-term assessment of the ART program and support improved patient care. As the number of ART sites and patients continues to expand, the current manual paper-based system may be overwhelmed. Identification and implementation of a feasible electronic data system that would maintain and improve data quality and the efficiency of data recording and reporting and enhance patient care is a priority. Conclusions The assessment of ART monitoring and evaluation systems can optimize the effectiveness of national ART programs, and should be considered in other resource-constrained countries rapidly scaling up ART. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A method is reported for the preparation of highly loaded TiO2–polymer composite particles by rapid expansion of carbon dioxide (CO2) saturated polymer suspensions with high shear mixing. Suspensions of CO2 saturated polymer solution and TiO2 nanoparticles were agitated in high-pressure vessel equipped with a column agitator and mechanical seals. The rotation speed and peripheral velocity were set at 5000rpm and 40.8m/s, respectively. The polymers were poly(lactic acid) (PLA; M.W.=10,000) and poly(styrene)-b-(poly(methyl methacrylate)-co-poly(glycidyl methacrylate)) copolymer (PS-b-PMMA-co-PGMA, M.W.=5000). After agitation and rapid expansion of the CO2 saturated polymer suspensions to an aqueous phase, polymer microspheres were obtained and very small on the order of only micrometers. The structure and morphology of the microspheres were investigated by SEM, TEM, XRD and turbidity measurement. The polymer microspheres obtained were highly loaded TiO2–polymer composites. According to TEM photograph of the cross section of polymer particle, loading ratio of TiO2 in polymer particles is 52%. The TiO2 content in the polymer particles was increased by an increase in the rotational speed of the agitator, and consequently the shear stress in the high-pressure vessel. The shear stress between the column agitator and the inside wall accelerates the dispersion of TiO2 nanoparticles in CO2 saturated polymer suspensions. On the other hand, agglomerated TiO2 nanoparticles were observed on the surface of polymer microparticles produced by rapid expansion of mixtures with conventional mixing, and the loading ratio of TiO2 in the polymer matrix was very low. The loading ratio of TiO2 in the polymer particle was very low and less than 1%. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Introduction: Patients with complete cleft lip palate are a challenge for their correction. A multidisciplinary team is necessary for the establishment of priorities of attention according to the general condition of each patient, the severity of the defect and the patient's age. The main objective of this study is to realize orthopedic surgery before the main repair with fast palate expansion, premaxilla retraction and posterior programmed surgery with anatomic closure of the nasal floor and cleft lip repair with the Mendoza technique. Objective: to shorten the time of the maxillar expansion and retroposition of the premaxilla in patients with bilateral cleft lip palate and prominent premaxilla, allowing better esthetical results. Material And Methods: All patients admitted to the plastic surgery service with the diagnosis of bilateral clift palate and prominent premaxilla no longer than 3 years old, from January 2002 to December 2004. lateral cefalograms were realized , dentary models and clinical pictures before and after surgery. Under general anesthesia, the fast maxillar expansion procedure was realized by installing a Latham screw. Secondarily a contention plaque with an expansion screw and two rings located anterior and medial to each palate segment of the plaque. Transversal to the premaxilla a nail was inserted for the support of its retraction, by fixing the nail to the palate plaque ring with an elastic chain. Finally bilateral cleft lip repair was made with the Mendoza technique. Results: 16 patients were included, 13 male and 3 female ages from 9 months to 3 years, with an average of 5 months. It was observed during surgery that the maxillary process expanded and average of 11mm, allowing de correct orientation of the premaxilla at the post surgical time. The retro position of the premaxilla (18mm) was accomplished 21 days after surgery. The form of the arc was favorable for the surgical correction in a follow up of 30 months. Conclussion: We found normal growth of the maxilla and an adequate relationship to the patients age. The post surgical expansion of the lateral segments allows in a brief time the adequate orientation of the premaxilla; this will give better esthetic results in bilateral cleft lip palate repair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: l-Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) microspheres were produced by rapid expansion of carbon dioxide (CO2) saturated polymer suspensions. The suspensions of CO2 saturated polymer solution containing ethanol were sprayed through a nozzle to the atmosphere or into water. In this work, to control the particle morphology, the gas-saturated polymer suspensions were expanded through the nozzle to water. After spraying solutions through a nozzle to the atmosphere, polymeric fibers and/or coalesced particles were obtained. On the other hand, polymeric microspheres were obtained after spraying through a nozzle to water. The obtained particles were smaller than those produced by expansion to atmosphere. The expansion of polymer suspensions to water impedes particle''s growth and agglomeration. The particles do not tend to agglomerate after expansion, since the ethanol used as co-solvent on the surface of particles diffuses through the water phase. Furthermore, the interfacial tension between the polymer droplets and water phase contributes to the microspheres formation. Changing the pre-expansion pressure and injection distance between the nozzle and water interface, controls the particle size distribution and morphology of microparticles. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The purpose of this research was to form stable suspensions of submicron particles of cyclosporine A, a water-insoluble drug, by rapid expansion from supercritical to aqueous solution (RESAS). A solution of cyclosporine A in CO2 was expanded into an aqueous solution containing phospholipid vesicles mixed with nonionic surfactants to provide stabilization against particle growth resulting from collisions in the expanding jet. The products were evaluated by measuring drug loading with high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), particle sizing by dynamic light scattering (DLS), and particle morphology by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and x-ray diffraction. The ability of the surfactant molecules to orient at the surface of the particles and provide steric stabilization could be manipulated by changing process variables including temperature and suspension concentration. Suspensions with high payloads (up to 54 mg/mL) could be achieved with a mean diameter of 500 nm and particle size distribution ranging from 40 to 920 nm. This size range is several hundred nanometers smaller than that produced by RESAS for particles stabilized by Tween 80 alone. The high drug payloads (≈10 times greater than the equilibrium solubility), the small particle sizes, and the long-term stability make this process attractive for development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The function of delayed greening in the seedlings of canopy tree species in a lowland tropical rain forest was examined in terms of its potential defensive value against herbivory. To explore the ecological and evolutionary backgrounds for delayed greening, we chose eight sympatric congeneric (Shorea) dipterocarp species that were either normal-greening or delayed-greening species. Expansion and toughening of leaves took approximately 30 days for all species, and did not differ between the normal- and delayed-greening species. The main factors that affected leaf damage during expansion were insect herbivory and fungal infection. Levels of leaf damage were significantly lower for delayed-greening species than for normal-greening species, but proportions of heavily damaged leaves and leaf abscission during expansion did not differ. In addition, no significant difference was found in damage levels on leaves (aged 1–2 months) of naturally occurring seedlings between normal- and delayed-greening species. Therefore, delayed greening may effectively reduce the level of leaf damage in young expanding leaves, but may not necessarily reduce leaf abscission and damage to mature leaves. The existence of delayed greening could not be simply explained by the phylogenetic and ecological backgrounds of the trees. Consequently, delayed greening may have a function in reducing damage during expansion, but more information (such as knowledge of the secondary metabolites involved in this phenomenon) is needed to explain fully why these species exhibit delayed greening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the growing interest in nanoscale materials, the surface coating on nanoscale is a demanding technology. In the present work, the rapid expansion of supercritical suspensions in impinging-stream reactors is proposed for the coating of ultrafine particles with the coating layer on nanoscale. Ultrafine particles with the average particle size of 1 μm and 20 nm were used as the core particles. The ultrafine particles were well dispersed in the supercritical solutions of coating materials to form supercritical suspensions. By means of the rapid expansion of the supercritical suspensions from two capillary nozzles, the coating process was carried out in an impinging-stream reactor. The coating result was examined by the SEM observation. A uniform coating of ultrafine particles was achieved in this process. The effect of impinging distance on the coating rate was also investigated. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

By the use of a tiny pressure-transferring probe and capacitor-type sensor, the dynamic pressure signals in the jet flow of the rapid expansion of supercritical carbon dioxide are measured, which distinctively shows the characteristics of quasi-periodical coherent structures. After Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) conversion of the time series signals of the dynamic pressure, there exist three dominant frequency bands in the power spectrum, which correlate with the scale of the dominant eddies in the turbulent field. The dominant frequencies change little with the distance from the nozzle exit or the pre-expansion pressure, while the power density of the dominant frequencies, which correlates with the energy of the dominant eddies in the turbulence, attenuates along the axial direction and with the decrease of the pre-expansion pressure. Through analysis, it is inferred that the nozzle structure and initial conditions remarkably affect the coherent structures in the expansion flow which should be the important factors in the particle nucleation and its growth process in ultra-fine particle preparation by rapid expansion of supercritical fluid solution (RESS). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The size distribution of fine powders formed during the rapid expansion of supercritical solutions (RESS) depends on the operating conditions, as well as on the geometry of the expansion device. In order to meet product specifications and improve process control, a fundamental understanding of the interplay between nucleation, condensation, and coagulation during this type of expansion is needed. In this work, we model the particle dynamics resulting from homogeneous nucleation, condensation and coagulation during the subsonic expansion of a non-volatile solute in a supercritical fluid inside a cylindrical capillary. The calculations show that subsonic RESS is a very effective technique for producing particles in the 10–50 nm diameter range. The particle formation process is characterized by delayed nucleation, low particle number concentrations, precipitation of a comparatively small fraction of the total solute mass, and by a narrow size distribution. In a few cases where the expansion trajectory enters the fluid''s vapor–liquid coexistence region, the particle formation exhibits early nucleation, strong coagulation, and higher particle number concentrations. In order to explain and describe quantitatively the much larger particle diameters found in actual RESS experiments, additional condensation and coagulation processes that occur in the transonic flow field outside the expansion device, and their interaction with this complex flow field, would also need to be incorporated. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of bisphosphonate (BP), an inhibitor of bone resorption, on the remodeling of the rat sagittal suture after rapid expansion. Wistar strain male rats were divided into 4 groups and subjected to rapid mechanical expansion with an initial force of 60 g for 3 days. Immediately after the sutural expansion, the appliance was removed in 2 of the groups. In the S group, half of the animals were injected with saline solution daily for 3 days and the other half were injected daily for 7 days prior to sacrifice. In the B group, half of the animals were injected with bisphosphonate daily for 3 days and the other half were injected daily for 7 days prior to sacrifice. The remaining 2 groups underwent 7 days of mechanical retention before the appliance was removed. In the SR group, half of the animals were injected with saline solution daily for 3 days and the other half were injected daily for 7 days prior to sacrifice. In the BR group, half of the animals were injected with bisphosphonate solution daily for 3 days and the other half were injected daily for 7 days prior to sacrifice. The calvariae were fixed in 4% neutral formalin, decalcified, and embedded in paraffin. The amount of relapse and the relevant bone remodeling were evaluated in terms of a relapse ratio and the number of osteoclasts. The relapse ratio was 54.11% in the S group and 32.53% in the B group 7 days after the injection. This ratio was 25.13% in the SR group and 9.60% in the BR group. The number of osteoclasts 3 days after injection was 15.47 in the S group, which was significantly greater than the 5.26 present in the B group. This number was 7.08 in the SR group, which was significantly greater than the 1.83 in the BR group. These results demonstrate that the injection of BP after rapid expansion, if combined with mechanical retention, may produce more secure retention by inhibiting bone resorption, indicating a possibility of employing a pharmaceutical aid to decrease the skeletal relapse after mechanotherapy in clinical orthodontics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of cetirizine, a histamine 1 receptor antagonist, on bone remodeling after calvarial suture expansion., Methods: Sixty male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 4 groups; the phosphate-buffered saline (PBS)-injected no expansion group, cetirizine-injected no expansion group, PBS-injected expansion group, and cetirizine-injected expansion group, and were observed at 7, 14, and 28 days. Five rats per group were examined at each observation day. Daily injections of cetirizine or PBS were administered to the relevant groups starting 2 weeks prior to expander insertion. A rapid expander was inserted in the calvarial bone to deliver 100 cN of force to the parietal suture. The specimens were prepared for hematoxylin and eosin and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining. Suture opening and bone regeneration were evaluated using microcomputed tomography and bone histomorphometric analysis. Serum blood levels of osteocalcin and carboxy-terminal collagen crosslinks (CTX) were also evaluated., Results: TRAP-positive cell counts and CTX levels decreased while osteocalcin levels increased in the cetirizine-injected expansion group at observation day 28. In the expansion groups, the mineralized area gradually increased throughout the observation period. At day 28, the cetirizine-injected expansion group showed greater bone volume density, greater mineralized area, and narrower average suture width than did the PBS-injected expansion group., Conclusions: Cetirizine injection facilitated bone formation after suture expansion, mostly by suppressing osteoclastic activity. Histamine 1 receptor antagonists may aid in bone formation after calvarial suture expansion in the rat model., Competing Interests: CONFLICTS OF INTEREST: No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported., (© 2020 The Korean Association of Orthodontists.)

Traditional methods for solids processing involve either high temperatures, necessary for melting or viscosity reduction, or hazardous organic solvents. Owing to the negative impact of the solvents on the environment, especially on living organisms, intensive research has focused on new, sustainable methods for the processing of these substances. Applying supercritical fluids for particle formation may produce powders and composites with special characteristics. Several processes for formation and design of solid particles using dense gases have been studied intensively. The unique thermodynamic and fluid-dynamic properties of supercritical fluids can be used also for impregnation of solid particles or for the formation of solid powderous emulsions and particle coating, e.g., for formation of solids with unique properties for use in different applications. We give an overview of the application of sub- and supercritical fluids as green processing media for particle formation processes and present recent advances and trends in development.