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Previous observations demonstrate New Zealand blackcurrant (NZBC) extract to alter cardiovascular responses at rest without prior exercise. However, the prolonged effects of NZBC on blood pressure and heart rate variability following exercise are not known. Participants (n15 [five women], age: 31 ± 9 years, maximal oxygen uptake: 44 ± 9 ml·kg−1·min−1) undertook a control condition of 2 hr of lying supine rest. Subsequently, in a double-blind, placebo (PLA)-controlled, randomized crossover design participants completed 1 hr of treadmill exercise at 50% maximal oxygen uptake followed by 2-hr supine rest with blood pressure and heart rate variability measurement following a 7-day intake of NZBC and PLA. With NZBC, there was an increase in average fat oxidation (NZBC: 0.24 ± 0.11 vs. PLA: 0.17 ± 0.11 g/min, p =.005), and larger high-frequency relative power during the exercise (p =.037). In the 2-hr rest period, delta change for systolic pressure was larger with NZBC than PLA (Control vs. NZBC: −5.6 ± 6.4, Control vs. PLA: −3.5 ± 6.0 mmHg, p =.033) but was not different for diastolic or mean arterial pressure. There were no alterations in heart rate variabilities during the 2 hr following the exercise with NZBC. A 7-day intake of NZBC causes a larger postexercise hypotension response in young, physically active men and women following 1 hr of treadmill exercise at 50% maximal oxygen uptake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the UHV background pressure as low as 1.1 × 10 − 10 Torr has been measured using the loss rate characteristics of a vapor-loaded magneto-optical trap (MOT) formed on an atom chip in a UHV chamber. The loss rate due to non-rubidium (Rb) gases in the background in the chamber has been estimated by operating the MOT in low cooling beam intensities and low Rb pressure regimes simultaneously. Using this approach, we minimized the contributions of the intra-trap collisions as well as background MOT species collisions to the measured trap loss rate in our setup. These results can be useful for development of cold-atom based UHV pressure standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Resistance training with blood flow restriction (BFR) has increased in clinical rehabilitation due to the substantial benefits observed in augmenting muscle mass and strength using low loads. However, there is a great variability of training pressures for clinical populations as well as methods to estimate it. The aim of this study was to estimate the percentage of maximal BFR that could result by applying different methodologies based on arbitrary or individual occlusion levels using a cuff width between 9 and 13 cm. Design: A secondary analysis was performed on the combined databases of 2 previous larger studies using BFR training. Methods: To estimate these percentages, the occlusion values needed to reach complete BFR (100% limb occlusion pressure [LOP]) were estimated by Doppler ultrasound. Seventy-five participants (age 24.32 [4.86] y; weight: 78.51 [14.74] kg; height: 1.77 [0.09] m) were enrolled in the laboratory study for measuring LOP in the thigh, arm, or calf. Results: When arbitrary values of restriction are applied, a supra-occlusive LOP between 120% and 190% LOP may result. Furthermore, the application of 130% resting brachial systolic blood pressure creates a similar occlusive stimulus as 100% LOP. Conclusions: Methods using 100 mm Hg and the resting brachial systolic blood pressure could represent the safest application prescriptions as they resulted in applied pressures between 60% and 80% LOP. One hundred thirty percent of the resting brachial systolic blood pressure could be used to indirectly estimate 100% LOP at cuff widths between 9 and 13 cm. Finally, methodologies that use standard values of 200 and, 300 mm Hg far exceed LOP and may carry additional risk during BFR exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In the current study, longitudinal BP and lipid measurements were examined in a NEPTUNE cohort of children with newly diagnosed nephrotic syndrome (cNEPTUNE). We hypothesized that hypertensive BP and dyslipidemia would persist in children with nephrotic syndrome, regardless of steroid treatment response. Methods: A multi-center longitudinal observational analysis of data obtained from children < 19 years of age with new onset nephrotic syndrome enrolled in the Nephrotic Syndrome Study Network (cNEPTUNE) was conducted. BP and lipid data were examined over time stratified by disease activity and steroid exposure. Generalized estimating equation regressions were used to find determinants of hypertensive BP and dyslipidemia. Results: Among 122 children, the prevalence of hypertensive BP at any visit ranged from 17.4% to 57.4%, while dyslipidemia prevalence ranged from 40.0% to 96.2% over a median of 30 months of follow-up. Hypertensive BP was found in 46.2% (116/251) of study visits during active disease compared with 31.0% (84/271) of visits while in remission. Dyslipidemia was present in 88.2% (120/136) of study visits during active disease and in 66.0% (101/153) while in remission. Neither dyslipidemia nor hypertensive BP were significantly different with/without medication exposure (steroids and/or CNI). In regression analysis, male sex and urine protein:creatinine ratio (UPC) were significant determinants of hypertensive BP over time, while eGFR was found to be a determinant of dyslipidemia over time. Conclusions: Results demonstrate persistent hypertensive BPs and unfavorable lipid profiles in the cNEPTUNE cohort regardless of remission status or concurrent steroid or calcineurin inhibitor treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Functional lumen imaging probe (FLIP) panometry evaluates esophageal motility, including the contractile response to distension, that is, secondary peristalsis. Impaired/disordered contractile response (IDCR) is an abnormal, but nonspecific contractile response that can represent either hypomotility or spastic motor disorders on high‐resolution manometry (HRM). We hypothesized that FLIP pressure could be incorporated to clarify IDCR and aimed to determine its utility in a cohort of symptomatic esophageal motility patients. Methods: 173 adult patients that had IDCR on FLIP panometry and HRM with a conclusive Chicago Classification v4.0 (CCv4.0) diagnosis were included and analyzed as development (n = 118) and validation (n = 55) cohorts. FLIP pressure values were assessed for prediction of either hypomotility or spasm, defined on HRM/CCv4.0. Key Results: HRM/CCv4.0 diagnoses were normal motility in 48 patients (28%), "hypomotility" (ineffective esophageal motility, absent contractility, or Type I or II achalasia) in 89 (51%), and "spasm" (Type III achalasia, distal esophageal spasm, or hypercontractile esophagus) in 36 (21%). The pressure at esophagogastric junction‐distensibility index (DI) (60 mL) was lower in hypomotility (median [interquartile range] 34 [28–42] mmHg) than in spasm (49 [40–62] mmHg; p < 0.001) and had an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.80 (95% CI 0.73–0.88) for hypomotility and 0.76 (0.69–0.83) for spasm. For "spasm" on HRM, a threshold FLIP pressure of >35 mmHg provided 90% sensitivity (47% specificity) while >55 mmHg provided 93% specificity (40% sensitivity). Conclusion & Inferences: Pressure on FLIP panometry can help clarify the significance of IDCR, with low‐pressure IDCR associated with hypomotility and high‐pressure IDCR suggestive of spastic motor disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the impact of microbubble degradation and flow velocity on Sub-Harmonic Aided Pressure Estimation (SHAPE), and to explore the correlation between subharmonic amplitude and pressure as a single factor. We develop an open-loop vascular phantom platform system and utilize a commercial ultrasound machine and microbubbles for subharmonic imaging. Subharmonic amplitude was measured continuously at constant pressure and flow velocity to assess the impact of microbubble degradation. Flow velocity was varied within a range of 4–14 cm/s at constant pressure to investigate its relationship to subharmonic amplitude. Furthermore, pressure was varied within a range of 10–110 mm Hg at constant flow velocity to assess its isolated effect on subharmonic amplitude. Under constant pressure and flow velocity, subharmonic amplitude exhibited a continuous decrease at an average rate of 0.221 dB/min, signifying ongoing microbubble degradation during the experimental procedures. Subharmonic amplitude demonstrated a positive correlation with flow velocity, with a variation ratio of 0.423 dB/(cm/s). Under controlled conditions of microbubble degradation and flow velocity, a strong negative linear correlation was observed between pressure and subharmonic amplitude across different Mechanical Index (MI) settings (all R2 > 0.90). The sensitivity of SHAPE was determined to be 0.025 dB/mmHg at an MI of 0.04. The assessment of SHAPE sensitivity is affected by microbubble degradation and flow velocity. Excluding the aforementioned influencing factors, a strong linear negative correlation between pressure and subharmonic amplitude was still evident, albeit with a sensitivity coefficient lower than previously reported values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute compartment syndrome (ACS) is defined by a disorder of the microcirculation due to a persistent pathological pressure increase within a muscle compartment. The ischemia of the tissue leads to an initially reversible functional impairment and finally irreversible damage of the musculature, nerves and other structures. Based on the understanding of the pathophysiology, the current diagnostic concepts and treatment using the so-called dermatofasciotomy of the affected muscle compartments can be derived. In addition to the suspicion of a possible ACS based on the medical history of the patient, the findings of the clinical examination are decisive. This review article gives a summary of all the essential aspects of the diagnostics. In clinically uncertain cases and for monitoring, an objectification of the findings using instrument-based techniques is increasingly required. Nowadays, invasive needle pressure measurement is available; however, due to limited reliability, specificity and sensitivity, these measurements only represent an aid to decision guidance supporting or advising against the indications for dermatofasciotomy. The increasing demands on making a certain diagnosis and justification of a surgical intervention from a legal point of view, substantiate the numerous scientific efforts to develop noninvasive instrument-based diagnostics. These methods are based either on detection of increasing intracompartmental pressure or decreasing perfusion pressure and microcirculation. The various measurement principles are summarized in a lucid form. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An increased intra-abdominal pressure can result in a manifest abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) with significant organ damage, which is a life-threatening situation associated with a high mortality. Although the etiology is manifold and critically ill patients on the intensive care unit are particularly endangered, the disease is often not diagnosed even though the measurement of bladder pressure is available as a simple and standardized method; however, particularly the early detection of an increased intra-abdominal pressure is decisive in order to prevent the occurrence of a manifest ACS with (multi)organ failure by means of conservative measures. In cases of a conservative refractory situation, decompressive laparotomy is indicated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Blood pressure (BP) is routinely invasively monitored by an arterial catheter in the intensive care unit (ICU). However, the available data comparing the accuracy of noninvasive methods to arterial catheters for measuring BP in the ICU are limited by small numbers and diverse methodologies. Purpose: To determine agreement between invasive arterial blood pressure monitoring (IABP) and noninvasive blood pressure (NIBP) in critically ill patients. Methods: This was a single center, observational study of critical ill adults in a tertiary care facility evaluating agreement (≤10% difference) between simultaneously measured IABP and NIBP. We measured clinical features at time of BP measurement inclusive of patient demographics, laboratory data, severity of illness, specific interventions (mechanical ventilation and dialysis), and vasopressor dose to identify particular clinical scenarios in which measurement agreement is more or less likely. Results: Of the 1852 critically ill adults with simultaneous IABP and NIBP readings, there was a median difference of 6 mm Hg in mean arterial pressure (MAP), interquartile range (1-12), P <.01. A logistic regression analysis identified 5 independent predictors of measurement discrepancy: increasing doses of norepinephrine (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.10 [95% confidence interval, CI 1.08-1.12] P =.03 for every change in 5 µg/min), lower MAP value (aOR 0.98 [0.98-0.99] P <.01 for every change in 1 mm Hg), higher body mass index (aOR 1.04 [1.01-1.09] P =.01 for an increase in 1), increased patient age (aOR 1.31 [1.30-1.37] P <.01 for every 10 years), and radial arterial line location (aOR 1.74 [1.16-2.47] P =.04). Conclusions: There was broad agreement between IABP and NIBP in critically ill patients over a range of BPs and severity of illness. Several variables are associated with measurement discrepancy; however, their predictive capacity is modest. This may guide future study into which patients may specifically benefit from an arterial catheter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study assessed knowledge, behaviors, and perceptions towards hypertension following community dissemination on cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk within the Navrongo Health and Demographic Surveillance Site in Northern Ghana. Methods: A cross-sectional mixed methods study was conducted among middle aged men and women following education on CVD and their risk factors. Knowledge and attitudes of participants regarding hypertension were measured in 310 participants using a survey tool and the resultant data was analyzed with descriptive statistics. Focus group discussions (FDG) were used to assess perceptions of 40 study participants on their lived experiences with hypertension. Recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim and coded into themes using Nvivo 12 software before thematic analysis. Results: Of the 310 surveyed participants, 54% were women and the mean age was 50 ± 6 years. The results showed that 84% of participants had heard about hypertension, 70% knew it was an increase in blood pressure and could be caused by excess salt intake, poor diet and physical inactivity. About 22.3% of participants were aware of the had hypertension. In terms of management, majority of the participants were aware that hypertension could be treated with antihypertensive medication and that untreated or uncontrolled hypertension could result in adverse health consequences. Few participants had ever had their blood pressure measured and did not access screening or healthcare care services and rather perceived the health system as inadequate to screen, and manage hypertension. Conclusion: Though, knowledge on hypertension was high, awareness of hypertension status and access to screening and healthcare services was low. Community beliefs and perceptions strongly influence treatment, and control of hypertension. Effective sustained community dissemination efforts addressing misperceptions could improve hypertension treatment and control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Minimally invasive and non‐invasive hemodynamic monitoring technologies have recently gained more attention, driven by technological advances and the inherent risk of complications in invasive techniques. In this article, an experimental non‐invasive system is presented that effectively combines the capabilities of spectrometry, photoplethysmography (PPG), and arterial pressure measurement. Both time‐ and wavelength‐resolved optical signals from the fingertip are measured under external pressure, which gradually increased above the level of systolic blood pressure. The optical channels measured at 434–731 nm divided into three groups separated by a group of channels with wavelengths approximately between 590 and 630 nm. This group of channels, labeled transition band, is characterized by abrupt changes resulting from a decrease in the absorption coefficient of whole blood. External pressure levels of maximum pulsation showed that shorter wavelengths (<590 nm) probe superficial low‐pressure blood vessels, whereas longer wavelengths (>630 nm) probe high‐pressure arteries. The results on perfusion indices and DC component level changes showed clear differences between the optical channels, further highlighting the importance of wavelength selection in optical hemodynamic monitoring systems. Altogether, the results demonstrated that the integrated system presented has the potential to extract new hemodynamic information simultaneously from macrocirculation to microcirculation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Human plantar pressure can reflect the health status of the lower limbs and even the whole body, which is an important basis for gait analysis, and body mass index is an important influencing factor. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of body mass index on plantar pressure. METHODS: Twenty young college students from Xuzhou Medical University, including 10 males and 10 females aged 19-21 years, were selected as test subjects and divided into three groups according to the body mass index value: overweight group (body mass index > 25 kg/m², n=3), lean group (body mass index < 18 kg/m2, n=4), and normal group (body mass index 18-25 kg/m², n=13). A natural walking gait test was carried out on the three groups of subjects with a Zebris pressure distribution measurement plate to obtain the complete gait cycle parameters. The time proportion of support time phase, peak pressure, time to peak force, peak force and impulse volume were analyzed and the correlation between each parameter and the body mass index was analyzed by Person analysis. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) Compared with the other two groups, the time proportion of support time phase of subjects in the overweight group was relatively small, while the time proportion in the foot heel contact period and forefoot extension period was relatively large. There was a positive correlation of the time proportion of the foot heel contact period and forefoot extension period with body mass index, while there was a negative correlation between the time proportion of the arch support period and body mass index. (2) The peak pressure of the left arch and palm of the foot of the subjects of the overweight group was higher than that of the normal group, and the peak pressure of the left and right palm of the foot of the lean group was lower than that of the normal group. The peak pressure was positively correlated with the body mass index during the foot heel contact period. There was a significant positive correlation between the peak pressure of the left foot and body mass index during the arch support period as well as the peak pressure of both feet and body mass index during the forefoot extension period. (3) Plantar peak force time in the order of the gait cycle in increasing order: heel < arch < metatarsal < toe. In the foot heel contact period, the time of peak force was negatively correlated with body mass index, but they were positively correlated with each other in the forefoot extension period. In the arch support period, the time of peak force of the left arch was significantly positively correlated with body mass index. (4) Plantar peak force was mainly expressed as medial heel > toe/middle 2-4 metatarsal > lateral heel > medial and lateral metatarsal > arch; medial heel peak force was the largest, and the arch peak force was the smallest. Except for the toe of the left foot, there was a significant positive correlation between peak force and body mass index. (5) The maximum ground impulse of the lean group and the overweight group was in the foot heel contact stage, the minimum ground impulse was in the forefoot extension period, and the minimum ground impulse of the arch was in the normal group. There was a significant positive correlation between ground impulse and body mass index at different periods. (6) The results show that young people should control their body mass index, wear appropriate shoes, protect their feet and ankles, and prevent the occurrence of flat feet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate arm circumference (AC) measurement is required for accurate blood pressure (BP) readings. Standards stipulate measuring arm circumference at the midpoint between the acromion process (AP) and the olecranon process. However, which part of the AP to use is not stipulated. Furthermore, BP is measured sitting but arm circumference is measured standing. We sought to understand how landmarking during AC measurement and body position affect cuff size selection. Two variations in measurement procedure were studied. First, AC was measured at the top of the acromion (TOA) and compared to the spine of the acromion (SOA). Second, standing versus seated measurements using each landmark were compared. AC was measured to the nearest 0.1 cm at the mid‐point of the upper arm by two independent observers, blinded from each other's measurements. In 51 participants, the mean (±SD) mid‐AC measurement using the anchoring landmarks TOA and SOA in the standing position were 32.4 cm (±6.18) and 32.1 cm (±6.07), respectively (mean difference of 0.3 cm). In the seated position, mean arm circumference was 32.2 (±6.10) using TOA and 31.1 (±6.03) using SOA (mean difference 1.1 cm). Kappa agreement for cuff selection in the standing position between TOA and SOA was 0.94 (p < 0.001). The landmark on the acromion process can change the cuff selection in a small percentage of cases. The overall impact of this landmark selection is small. However, standardizing landmark selection and body position for AC measurement could further reduce variability in cuff size selection during BP measurement and validation studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to identify the relationship between exercise-induced hypertension and carotid artery intima-media thickness in long-distance runners. Sixty healthy male runners aged 40 to 60 years were assigned to the following three groups based on resting blood pressure and maximal systolic blood pressure during a maximal exercise test: normal blood pressure response, exercise-induced hypertension, and complex hypertension. An exaggerated systolic blood pressure response was defined as a maximal systolic blood pressure+≥+210 mmHg during the maximal exercise test, while carotid intima-media thickness was measured using B-mode ultrasonography. The carotid intima-media thickness mean values were the highest in the complex hypertension group (0.72±0.11 mm), followed by exercise-induced hypertension (0.62±0.12 mm) and normal blood pressure groups (0.55±0.13 mm), with a significant difference between the groups (p+<+0.002). In linear regression analysis, the mean intima-media thickness was independently associated with age (p=0.015) and maximal systolic blood pressure (p=0.046) but not with resting systolic blood pressure. These results suggest that exercise-induced hypertension is associated with carotid intima-media thickness, a surrogate marker of cardiovascular disease, in long-distance runners. Therefore, evaluating the blood pressure response during exercise is important for the early detection of potential cardiovascular disease risks in long-distance runners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The design, fabrication and characterization of a cost-efficient oceanographic instrument with microfabricated sensors for measuring conductivity, temperature and depth of seawater are presented. Conductivity and temperature sensors were fabricated using MEMS technology, which allows for customized small footprints and low production costs. Dedicated electronics for reading, processing and storing acquired sensor data are described. The developed instrument enables the measurement of seawater conductivity in a range from 4 mS/cm to 70 mS/cm. The conductivity measurement is temperature-compensated in the range from 2 °C to 40 °C, with an accuracy of ±0.1 mS/cm. The temperature sensor's stability is 0.025 °C. The depth/pressure measurement range is up to 2000 m/200 bar, with a resolution of 0.1 bar. Temperature and conductivity sensor performance was assessed using laboratory equipment and designed electronics. The conductivity sensor was temperature-compensated to 0.01 mS/cm. The conductivity sensor electrode corrosion effect is presented below and was eliminated through adaptation of a signal acquisition circuit. Custom software was developed for monitoring critical conductivity sensor parameters (currents, voltages). A variation of 0.4% between cell conductance currents and voltages was established as a criterion for stable conductivity sensor operation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seat pressure measurements in wheelchair users have been available for some time; however, repeated measurements from a commercially available pressure mat over 90 min did not differ in the pressure-loaded measurement area or the coordinates of the center of pressure, even in participants who were able to reposition themselves in the wheelchair. The question therefore arises: to what extent are there other parameters that reflect the activity of wheelchair users with the pressure mat? To investigate this, a commercial pressure mat (BodiTrak®) was used to perform the measurements of pressure of 33 adult wheelchair-dependent people with spinal cord injury after 30 and 90 min sitting on the cushion. In addition to the standard output of the pressure mat, graph-based surface analyses (calculation of the area of maximum pressure, calculation of the pressure-loaded measurement area, and pressure–area ratio) was performed retrospectively using Python 3.7. The analysis of the measurements after 30 and 90 min was performed by distinguishing the participants between those who could actively change their position (N = 24) and those who could not (N = 9). The parameters of the pressure mat and the graph-based analyses remained unchanged for active participants. In participants who were unable to actively change their position, the area of maximum pressure and the pressure–area ratio (ratio of maximum pressure area and total pressure-loaded area) increased. Significant differences between minutes 30 and 90 are only found for the pressure–area ratio. Thus, when measuring the seat pressure of wheelchair users, the pressure–area ratio should be taken into account as it reflects the daily relief activities of wheelchair users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The control of transcription is crucial for homeostasis in mammals. A previous selective sweep analysis of horse racing performance revealed a 19.6 kb candidate regulatory region 50 kb downstream of the Endothelin3 (EDN3) gene. Here, the region was narrowed to a 5.5 kb span of 14 SNVs, with elite and sub-elite haplotypes analyzed for association to racing performance, blood pressure and plasma levels of EDN3 in Coldblooded trotters and Standardbreds. Comparative analysis of human HiCap data identified the span as an enhancer cluster active in endothelial cells, interacting with genes relevant to blood pressure regulation. Coldblooded trotters with the sub-elite haplotype had significantly higher blood pressure compared to horses with the elite performing haplotype during exercise. Alleles within the elite haplotype were part of the standing variation in pre-domestication horses, and have risen in frequency during the era of breed development and selection. These results advance our understanding of the molecular genetics of athletic performance and vascular traits in both horses and humans. Author summary: A previous study discovered that a genomic region close to the Endothelin3 gene was associated with harness racing performance. Here, careful phenotypic documentation of athletic performance and blood pressure measurements in horses, followed by state-of-the-art genomics, allowed us to identify a 5.5 kb regulatory region located approximately 50 kb 3' of the EDN3 gene. A comparative analysis of the region using human HiCap data supported a regulatory role as, in endothelial cells, interaction was observed between the region and multiple genes relevant to blood pressure regulation and athletic performance. Long range cis-regulatory modules are critical for cooperatively controlling multiple genes located within transcriptionally active domains. We measured blood pressure in Coldblooded trotters during exercise and demonstrated that horses with two copies of the elite-performing haplotype had lower blood pressure during exercise and better racing performance results, compared to horses with two copies of the sub-elite performing haplotype. In addition, horses with the elite-performing haplotype also had higher levels of Endothelin3 in plasma. The results reported here are important for understanding the biological mechanisms behind blood pressure regulation in relation to racing performance in both horses and humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oats are recognized to provide many health benefits that are mainly associated with its dietary fibre, β-glucan. However, the protein derived from oats is largely understudied with respect to its ability to maintain health and attenuate risk factors of chronic diseases. The goal of the current study was to investigate the metabolic effects of oat protein consumption in lieu of casein as the protein source in high fat, high sucrose (HF/HS) fed Wistar rats. Four-week-old rats were divided into three groups and were fed three different experimental diets: a control diet with casein as the protein source, an HF/HS diet with casein, or an HF/HS diet with oat protein for 16 weeks. Heart structure and function were determined by echocardiography. Blood pressure measurements, an oral glucose tolerance test, and markers of cholesterol metabolism, oxidative stress, inflammation, and liver and kidney damage were also performed. Our study results show that incorporation of oat protein in the diet was effective in preserving systolic heart function in HF/HS fed rats. Oat protein significantly reduced serum total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. Furthermore, oat protein normalized liver HMG-CoAR activity, which, to our knowledge, is the first time this has been reported in the literature. Therefore, our research suggests that oat protein can provide hypocholesterolemic and cardioprotective benefits in a diet-induced model of metabolic syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this review is to elucidate the different laboratory and biomarker testing methods available for screening and diagnosis of preeclampsia. These include routine testing, such as blood pressure readings, qualitative and quantitative urine testing, complete blood count with platelets, serum creatinine levels, liver chemistries, and serum bilirubin levels. This review also details the use of non-routine testing, such as screening for angiogenic and anti-angiogenic markers, such as placental growth factor (PlGF) and soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1). Blood pressure measurements and proteinuria are the most routinely used screening tools used for preeclampsia and there are limited data on the utility of other screening techniques because of a greater focus on the etiology and treatment of preeclampsia. Similarly, serum angiogenic biomarkers are not routinely collected, so there is limited evidence regarding using them as screening tools for preeclampsia and more data are needed to determine their significance in the screening and diagnosis of preeclampsia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of wind tunnel tests were performed to investigate the effect of turbulent inflows on the aerodynamic characteristics of variously modified trough incident leading-edge-protuberanced (LEP) wing configurations at various turbulence intensities. A self-developed passive grid made of parallel arrays of round bars was placed at different locations of the wind tunnel to generate desired turbulence intensity. The aerodynamic forces acting over the trough incidence LEP wing configuration where obtained from surface pressure measurements made over the wing at different turbulence intensities using an MPS4264 Scanivalve simultaneous pressure scanner corresponding to a sampling frequency of 700 Hz. All the test models were tested at a wide range of angles of attack ranging between 0 ° ≤ α ≤ 90 ° at turbulence intensities varying between 5.90% ≤ TI ≤ 10.54%. Results revealed that the time-averaged mean coefficient of lift (CL) increased with the increase in the turbulence intensity associated with smooth stall characteristics rendering the modified LEP test models advantageous. Furthermore, based on the surface pressure coefficients, the underlying dynamics behind the stall delay tendency were discussed. Additionally, attempts were made to statistically quantify the aerodynamic forces using standard deviation at both the pre-stall and the post-stall angles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a free-field method for inverse estimation of acoustic porous material parameters from sound pressure measurements above small rectangular samples. The finite sample effect, the spherical propagation of the sound field, and a potential lateral material reaction are considered. Using an extensive series of systematically varied finite element simulations, neural network models are developed to replace computationally expensive simulations as a forward model for the calculation of the complex sound pressure above small samples in the inverse optimization. The method is experimentally validated using various porous material samples. The results show that the influence of the finite sample size is successfully removed and thus, the acoustic properties of the materials can be estimated from the determined porous parameters with high accuracy, even based on a single sound pressure measurement over small samples with pronounced edge diffraction. The poroacoustic parameters hence derived can be used directly, e.g., in simulation applications, or to calculate complex surface impedances or absorption coefficients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we propose a photodegradation correction method for the dual-luminophore pressure-sensitive paint (PSP) measurement using lifetime-based imaging, which was proposed for correction of the temperature-induced error but has suffered from photodegradation in the previous studies. We introduced a parameter that characterizes the photodegradation of a dual-luminophore PSP as the intensity ratio between the two luminophores. The changes in the calibration coefficients for the pressure and the temperature due to photodegradation were corrected based on this parameter. In this study, a coupon-based calibration test was performed, and the luminescence characteristics of the dual-luminophore PSP including photodegradation were investigated. Then, the proposed method was applied to a coupon-based validation test and a jet impingement test, and the effectiveness of the method was evaluated by comparing results with and without correction. The pressure measurement accuracy was significantly improved by photodegradation correction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To examine the association with adverse pregnancy outcomes of: (1) American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association blood pressure (BP) thresholds, and (2) visit‐to‐visit BP variability (BPV), adjusted for BP level. Design: An observational study. Setting: Analysis of data from the population‐based UK Southampton Women's Survey (SWS). Population or sample: 3003 SWS participants. Methods: Generalised estimating equations were used to estimate crude and adjusted relative risks (RRs) of adverse pregnancy outcomes by BP thresholds, and by BPV (as standard deviation [SD], average real variability [ARV] and variability independent of the mean [VIM]). Likelihood ratios (LRs) were calculated to evaluate diagnostic test properties, for BP at or above a threshold, compared with those below. Main outcome measures: Gestational hypertension, severe hypertension, pre‐eclampsia, preterm birth (PTB), small‐for‐gestational‐age (SGA) infants, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission. Results: A median of 11 BP measurements were included per participant. For BP at ≥20 weeks' gestation, higher BP was associated with more adverse pregnancy outcomes; however, only BP <140/90 mmHg was a good rule‐out test (negative LR <0.20) for pre‐eclampsia and BP ≥140/90 mmHg a good rule‐in test (positive LR >8.00) for the condition. BP ≥160/110 mmHg could rule‐in PTB, SGA infants and NICU admission (positive LR >5.0). Higher BPV (by SD, ARV, or VIM) was associated with gestational hypertension, severe hypertension, pre‐eclampsia, PTB, SGA and NICU admission (adjusted RRs 1.05–1.39). Conclusions: While our findings do not support lowering the BP threshold for pregnancy hypertension, they suggest BPV could be useful to identify elevated risk of adverse outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Objective: To prospectively evaluate the relationship between cumulative environmental stress and cardiometabolic risk in middle childhood, and to examine whether hair cortisol, a measure of hypothalamic pituitary adrenal‐axis activity, mediates this relationship. Methods: In a cohort of children from low‐income households (n = 320; 59% Hispanic, 23% Black, body mass index (BMI) percentile >50th at enrollment), environmental stressors including family and neighbourhood factors representing disadvantage/deprivation, and cortisol concentrations from hair samples, were measured over five timepoints beginning when children were 2–4 years old. Cardiometabolic risk factors (i.e., BMI, blood pressure, lipids, blood sugar, C‐reactive protein) were measured at the final timepoint when children were 7–11 years of age. Results: In adjusted logistic regression models, greater cumulative environmental stress was associated with a higher likelihood of elevated cardiometabolic risk in middle childhood (p = 0.01). Children from minoritized racial/ethnic groups had a higher prevalence of both stressors and cardiometabolic risk factors. Cumulative environmental stress was associated with higher hair cortisol concentrations (p < 0.01). However, hair cortisol was not directly associated with cardiometabolic risk factors and did not explain the association between environmental stress and cardiometabolic risk in causal mediation analysis. Conclusions: The influence of cumulative stress on cardiometabolic health can be observed in middle childhood and may contribute to cardiometabolic health disparities, highlighting the importance of public health interventions to mitigate disadvantage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Introduction: Prevalence and risk factors for elevated glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and blood pressure (BP) are poorly understood among Pacific children. We examined associations of HbA1c and BP in 6–9 year‐olds with body mass index (BMI) at ages 2, 5, and BMI velocity between 2–9 years in Samoa. Methods: HbA1c (capillary blood) and BP were measured in n = 410 Samoan children who were part of an ongoing cohort study. Multilevel models predicted BMI trajectory characteristics. Generalized linear regressions assessed associations of childhood characteristics and BMI trajectories with HbA1c and BP treated as both continuous and categorical outcomes. Primary caregiver‐reported childhood characteristics were used as covariates. Results: Overall, 12.90% (n = 53) of children had high HbA1c (≥5.7%) and 33.17% (n = 136) had elevated BP. BMI at 5‐years and BMI velocity were positively associated with high HbA1c prevalence in males. A 1 kg/m2 per year higher velocity was associated with a 1.71 (95% CI: 1.07, 2.75) times higher prevalence of high HbA1c. In females, higher BMI at 5‐years and greater BMI velocity were associated with higher BP at 6–9 years (95% CI: 1.12, 1.40, and 1.42, 2.74, respectively). Conclusion: Monitoring childhood BMI trajectories may inform cardiometabolic disease screening and prevention efforts in this at‐risk population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Worldwide, arterial hypertension is the foremost preventable and modifiable cardiovascular risk factor. In addition to lifestyle changes, recent international guidelines recommend single-pill, low-dose combinations as initial treatment strategy. We investigated whether this approach is feasible in a rural sub-Saharan Africa setting. Methods: Diagnosis of hypertension was established over three sets of blood pressure measurements, performed according to the European Society of Hypertension recommendations by trained personnel, using a validated, automated, oscillometric device OMRON M7 IT-HEM-7322-E. In 98 individuals with arterial hypertension, a once-daily, single-pill combination of olmesartan, amlodipine, and hydrochlorothiazide was prescribed at an appropriate dose. Patients were instructed on its administration and potential side effects and encouraged towards lifestyle modifications. The treatment regimen was adjusted, if needed, at each outpatient clinic scheduled after 4, 8, 12, and 16 weeks. Results: Seventy-nine patients (aged 61 [53–70] years; median and interquartile range) strictly adhered to the treatment schedule, while 19 individuals (70 [65–80] years) dropped out. Blood pressure was < 140/90 mmHg after 4 weeks in 44 (56%), after 8 weeks in 62 (78%), after 12 weeks in 69 (87%), and after 16 weeks in 74 (94%) participants. Excellent tolerance was reported. Conclusions: These results provide real-life evidence that hypertension management with a once-daily, single-pill combination of olmesartan, amlodipine, and hydrochlorothiazide as initial treatment is feasible and effective also in a rural sub-Saharan setting. Single-pill combinations should be made available also in rural and remote areas in low- and middle-income countries as a reliable first-line treatment strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several studies have investigated the relationship of greenspace with blood pressure (BP) and hypertension, but the results were inconsistent. We aimed to assess the relationship of greenspace with BP/hypertension. We searched PubMed, Embase and Web of Science on greenspace and BP/hypertension published before 5 April 2023. The methodological quality and risk of bias were evaluated. Twenty-seven articles were included. Our results suggested that higher normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) was associated with lower odds of hypertension and levels of SBP [for every 10% increase of NDVI 500-m and NDVI 1000-m, the ORs were 0.95 (95% CI: 0.90–0.99) and 0.95 (95% CI: 0.90–0.99), the ꞵwas -1.32 (95% CI: -2.18, -0.45) and -1.41 (95% CI: -2.57, -0.25), respectively]. This study indicated that higher exposure to greenspace might be associated with lower levels of BP and risk of hypertension. Increase green spaces should be regarded as an important public health intervention.. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed at assessing the effectiveness of cognitive‐behavioural therapy (CBT) integrated with psychoeducation in a group of hypertensive patients with clinically significant psychopathological symptoms. Methods: One hundred hypertensive patients completed the Symptom Checklist‐90‐Revised. Of them, 17 scored above the clinical range (cut‐off = 0.75) on the Global Severity Index and were included in the study. Psychological distress was assessed again after the intervention (T1) and 6 months after the end of treatment (T2). In addition, the cortisol dosage and the heart rate (HR) measurement were collected at both T0 and T2. Then, mediation analyses were carried out to calculate whether psychopathological distress might predict HR through elevated serum cortisol levels, at both T0 and T2. Results: The psychological intervention (CBT integrated with psychoeducation) reduced most of the psychopathological symptoms (anxiety, depression, somatisations, obsessions and compulsions, hostility, interpersonal sensitivity and paranoid ideation) but not cortisol dosage and HR measurement. However, psychological distress indirectly predicted HR via cortisol at T0 but not at T2. Conclusion: These results suggest and encourage the replicability of data in larger sample sizes and the comparison with a control group. Nevertheless, these results highlight a need for a multidimensional assessment of disorders affecting the mental and physical spheres of patients to support their overall well‐being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents measurements of total pressures and pore pressures in the mixing chamber, the pore pressures in the soil in front of an earth pressure balance (EPB) at the Botlek Rail tunnel, as well as laboratory tests on foam infiltration behavior from foam–sand mixture to saturated sand. It shows that the plastering effect at the tunnel face is less effective for an EPB shield than for a slurry shield, as the pressure fluctuations are greater in the mixing chamber for an EPB shield, suggesting a higher water leakage at the tunnel face. The difference in the development of excess pore pressure at two different locations of the EPB shield suggests the influence of the soil permeability. Foam infiltration at the tunnel face can result in a low permeable layer that restricts the ground water flow. Results from laboratory tests suggest that foam infiltration will be influenced by foam injection ratio and soil permeability. As the foam infiltration length is only limited, no low permeable layer can be formed during drilling for fine sand conditions. While a larger foam infiltration length can be expected for medium sand condition. Field measurements on the development of pore pressures in the soils at the two different locations show agreement with the conclusions from laboratory tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A pilot study to evaluate a staff training intervention implementing a nurse-led hypertension care model. Clinical and laboratory data from all primary care centres (PCCs) in the Swedish region Västra Götaland (VGR), retrieved from regional registers. Intervention started 2018 in 11 PCCs. A total of 190 PCCs served as controls. Change from baseline was assessed 2 years after start of intervention. Training of selected personnel, primarily in drug choice, team-based care, measurement techniques, and use of standardized medical treatment protocols. Hypertensive patients without diabetes or ischemic heart disease were included. The intervention and control groups contained approximately 10,000 and 145,000 individuals, respectively. Blood pressure (BP) <140/90 mmHg, LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) <3.0 mmol/L, BP ending on −0 mmHg (digit preference, an indirect sign of manual measuring technique), choice of antihypertensive drugs, cholesterol lowering therapy and attendance patterns were measured. In the intervention group, the percentage of patients reaching the BP target did not change significantly, 56%–61% (control 50%–52%), non-significant. However, the percentage of patients with LDL-C < 3.0 mmol/L increased from 34%–40% (control 36%–36%), p =.043, and digit preference decreased, 39%−27% (control 41%−35%), p = 0.000. The number of antihypertensive drugs was constant, 1.63 − 1.64 (control 1.62 − 1.62), non-significant, but drug choice changed in line with recommendations. Although this primary care intervention based on staff training failed to improve BP control, it resulted in improved cardiovascular control by improved cholesterol lowering treatment. Hypertension is common and often suboptimally treated in relation to existing guidelines. This register study evaluates the results of a staff training intervention promoting nurse-led care. The intervention had an impact on measurement techniques, drug choice and improved cholesterol control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Vascular Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (vEDS) is an inherited connective tissue disorder characterized by arterial fragility. Celiprolol has been suggested to significantly reduce rates of vascular events in this setting, though real-world evidence is limited. The aim of this study was to report our experience with celiprolol therapy in vEDS management. Methods: Patients with a genetically confirmed diagnosis of vEDS who were referred for outpatient consultation at the Brescia University Hospital between January 2011 and July 2023 were included. At each visit, patients' medical history, results of vascular imaging, and office blood pressure measurements were recorded. Celiprolol therapy was progressively titrated to the maximum tolerated dose of up to 400 mg daily, according to the patients' tolerance. Results: Overall, 26 patients were included. Female sex was prevalent (62%). Mean (SD) age was 37 (16) years. Follow-up duration was 72 (41) months. At the last follow-up visit, all patients were on celiprolol therapy, 80% of whom were taking the maximum recommended dose. The yearly risk of symptomatic vascular events was 8.8%, the majority of which occurred after reaching the maximum recommended dose of celiprolol. No significant predictor of symptomatic vascular events was identified among patients' clinical characteristics. Conclusion: In our cohort, rates of celiprolol use were high and the drug was well tolerated overall. Nonetheless, the risk of symptomatic vascular events remained nonnegligible. Future studies should identify reliable predictors of major adverse events and explore additional therapeutic strategies that could further lower the risk of life-threatening events in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a controversial debate regarding whether unattended blood pressure (BP) measurement should be regarded as the new gold standard of office BP measurement. Unattended BP measurement eliminates the white‐coat effect and reduces external influences on the patient. On the other hand, it might underestimate real‐life BP. The present study compares the prevalence of masked hypertension using attended versus unattended office BP measurements. We performed a cross‐sectional study on 213 patients in a general practitioner's outpatient clinic and compared attended and unattended office BP with 24h‐ambulatory BP monitoring (24h‐ABPM). Masked hypertension was defined as pressure ≥135/85 mmHg in daytime ABPM with office systolic BP < 140/90 mmHg. Median attended and unattended office BPs were 140/86 and 134/80 mmHg with a median 24h‐BP of 129/79 mmHg and daytime ABP of 133/82 mmHg. The number of patients with masked hypertension was 45/213 (21.2%) using unattended and 23/213 (10.8%) using attended office BP measurements (p <.0001). Bland–Altman analysis revealed a 7.4 mmHg systolic and 6.2 mmHg diastolic bias between the attended versus unattended office BP, and two systolic and −1.7 mmHg diastolic biases between the unattended office BP and daytime ambulatory BP. In linear regression analysis, an unattended office BP of 134 mmHg corresponded to 140 mmHg in attended BP measurement. Using a cut‐off of 135/85 mmHg instead of 140/90 mmHg in unattended office BP measurement, the rate of masked hypertension was 26/213 (12.2%). Thus, unattended office BP measurement results in a substantial increase in the prevalence of masked hypertension using the traditional definition of hypertension. The present findings suggest that it might be reasonable to use a definition of 135/85 mmHg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Individuals living in communities with poor access to healthcare may be unaware of their high blood pressure (BP). While the use of community health workers (CHWs) can address gaps in human resources for health, CHWs in Uganda have not been used previously for BP screening and management. We report the results of an initiative to train CHWs to evaluate BP and to administer group-based education in Kalangala and Buvuma Island Districts of Lake Victoria, Uganda. Methods: We randomly selected 42 of 212 villages. We trained CHWs based in island districts on measuring BP. CHWs visited all households in the selected villages and invited all adults ≥ 18 years to be screened for high BP. We used the World Health Organization's STEPwise tool to collect data on demographic and behavioral characteristics and BP measurements. High blood pressure was defined as systolic BP (SBP) ≥ 140 mm Hg and/or diastolic BP (DBP) ≥ 90 mm Hg over three readings. CHWs created and led fortnight support groups for individuals identified with high blood pressure at baseline. At each group meeting, CHWs re-measured BP and administered an intervention package, which included self-management and lifestyle education to participants. The paired t-test was used to compare mean values of systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) before and after the intervention. Generalized estimating equations (GEE) were used to model longitudinal changes in BP. Results: We trained 84 CHWs to measure BP and deliver the intervention package. Among 2,016 community members, 570 (28.3%) had high blood pressure; of these, 63 (11.1%) had a previous diagnosis of hypertension. The comparison of SBP and DBP before and after the intervention revealed significant reductions in mean SBP from 158mmHg (SD = 29.8) to 149 mmHg (SD = 29.8) (p < 0.001) and mean DBP from 97mmHg (SD = 14.3) to 92mmHg (p < 0.001). GEE showed decreases of -1.133 (SBP) and − 0.543 mmHg (DBP)/fortnight. Conclusion: High BP was common but previously undiagnosed. The CHW-led group-based self-management and education for controlling high BP was effective in the island districts in Uganda. Scaling up the intervention in other hard-to-reach districts could improve control of high BP on a large scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a state-of-the-art static apparatus for vapor pressure measurements in a temperature range of 363−463 K and a wide pressure range of 1−13,330 Pa is introduced and described. The performance of the apparatus was evaluated by a meticulous procedure of measuring the vapor pressure of five reference materials of different volatility, anthracene, benzophenone, ferrocene, naphthalene, and dibenzothiophene. The last two compounds were studied in the blind test regime, i.e., the results were compared to literature only after finishing the experiments. During benchmarking the performance of the apparatus, it was found appropriate to develop new vapor pressure equations for ferrocene and anthracene that included high-temperature data from the STAT9 apparatus. By combining the new data with previously selected vapor pressures, sublimation enthalpies, and ideal-gas and condensed phase heat capacities, we have obtained a consistent sublimation pressure equation for anthracene and ferrocene. For anthracene, the correlation procedure covered melting properties and liquid-phase vapor pressure data to support the description of the high-temperature region. The revised vapor pressure equations and sublimation enthalpies may serve as solid foundation for future research in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Performing cardiovascular and cancer screenings in target populations can reduce mortality. Visiting a General Practitioner (GP) once a year is related to an increased likelihood of preventive care. The aim of this study was to analyse the influence of visiting a GP in the last year on the delivery of preventive services based on sex and household income. Methods: Cross-sectional study using data collected from the European Health Interview Survey 2013–2015 of individuals aged 40–74 years from 29 European countries. The variables included: sociodemographic factors (age, sex, and household income (HHI) quintiles [HHI 1: lowest income, HHI 5: more affluent]), lifestyle factors, comorbidities, and preventive care services (cardiometabolic, influenza vaccination, and cancer screening). Descriptive statistics, bivariate analyses and multilevel models (level 1: citizen, level 2: country) were performed. Results: 242,212 subjects were included, 53.7% were female. The proportion of subjects who received any cardiometabolic screening (92.4%) was greater than cancer screening (colorectal cancer: 44.1%, gynaecologic cancer: 40.0%) and influenza vaccination. Individuals who visited a GP in the last year were more prone to receive preventive care services (cardiometabolic screening: adjusted OR (aOR): 7.78, 95% CI: 7.43–8.15; colorectal screening aOR: 1.87, 95% CI: 1.80–1.95; mammography aOR: 1.76, 95% CI: 1.69–1.83 and Pap smear test: aOR: 1.89, 95% CI:1.85–1.94). Among those who visited a GP in the last year, the highest ratios of cardiometabolic screening and cancer screening benefited those who were more affluent. Women underwent more blood pressure measurements than men regardless of the HHI. Men were more likely to undergo influenza vaccination than women regardless of the HHI. The highest differences between countries were observed for influenza vaccination, with a median odds ratio (MOR) of 6.36 (under 65 years with comorbidities) and 4.30 (over 65 years with comorbidities), followed by colorectal cancer screening with an MOR of 2.26. Conclusions: Greater adherence to preventive services was linked to individuals who had visited a GP at least once in the past year. Disparities were evident among those with lower household incomes who visited a GP. The most significant variability among countries was observed in influenza vaccination and colorectal cancer screening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beat-to-beat (B2B) variability in biomedical signals has been shown to have high diagnostic power in the treatment of various cardiovascular and autonomic disorders. In recent years, new techniques and devices have been developed to enable non-invasive blood pressure (BP) measurements. In this work, we aim to establish the concept of two-dimensional signal warping, an approved method from ECG signal processing, for non-invasive continuous BP signals. To this end, we introduce a novel BP-specific beat annotation algorithm and a B2B-BP fluctuation (B2B-BPF) metric novel for BP measurements that considers the entire BP waveform. In addition to careful validation with synthetic data, we applied the generated analysis pipeline to non-invasive continuous BP signals of 44 healthy pregnant women (30.9 ± 5.7 years) between the 21st and 30th week of gestation (WOG). In line with established variability metrics, a significant increase (p < 0.05) in B2B-BPF can be observed with advancing WOGs. Our processing pipeline enables robust extraction of B2B-BPF, demonstrates the influence of various factors such as increasing WOG or exercise on blood pressure during pregnancy, and indicates the potential of novel non-invasive biosignal sensing techniques in diagnostics. The results represent B2B-BP changes in healthy pregnant women and allow for future comparison with those signals acquired from women with hypertensive disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Measuring postural control in an upright standing position is the standard method. However, this diagnostic method has floor or ceiling effects and its implementation is only possible to a limited extent. Assessing postural control directly on the trunk in a sitting position and consideration of the results in the spectrum in conjunction with an AI-supported evaluation could represent an alternative diagnostic method quantifying neuromuscular control. In a prospective cross-sectional study, 188 subjects aged between 18 and 60 years were recruited and divided into two groups: "LowBackPain" vs. "Healthy". Subsequently, measurements of postural control in a seated position were carried out for 60 s using a modified balance board. A spectrum per trail was calculated using the measured CoP tracks in the range from 0.01 to 10 Hz. Various algorithms for data classification and prediction of these classes were tested for the parameter combination with the highest proven static influence on the parameter pain. The best results were found in a frequency spectrum of 0.001 Hz and greater than 1 Hz. After transforming the track from the time domain to the image domain for representation as power density, the influence of pain was highly significant (effect size 0.9). The link between pain and gender (p = 0.015) and pain and height (p = 0.012) also demonstrated significant results. The assessment of postural control in a seated position allows differentiation between "LowBackPain" and "Healthy" subjects. Using the AI algorithm of neural networks, the data set can be correctly differentiated into "LowBackPain" and "Healthy" with a probability of 81%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To assess the long-term effects on weight reduction and health of a group-based behavioral weight intervention over six months focusing eating for fulfillment as compared to a control regime with brief intervention. Method: Overweight or obese adults (n = 176, 80% female, mean BMI 33.8 ± 4.7 kg/m2, mean age 55.2 ±10.1 years) were randomized to a group treatment or control receiving a brief intervention. Ninety-three participants (53% of original sample) completed the 5-year follow-up. Anthropometrics, blood pressure and biochemical measurements, self-rated lifestyle habits, quality of life and medication were obtained at baseline, at the end of the 6-month intervention, and once a year for five years following randomization. Results: A per-protocol analysis, performed due to a high drop-out rate, found that weight reduction was small and similar in the two groups after five years. Reduction of waist/hip ratio, total-cholesterol and triglycerides were somewhat larger in the control group than in the treatment group. No changes regarding blood pressure, quality of life or medication use between the treatment and control groups were found. Conclusions: No effect on weight reduction of the group intervention was found as compared to brief intervention but both groups achieved small weight loss over time. Findings indicate that any intervention or merely regular follow-ups might be promotive for weight maintenance in middle age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dual-mode combustor model of a kerosene-fueled dual-mode scramjet engine was investigated through a series of combustion experiments with different mode on the resistance heating direct-connected test system at Northwestern Polytechnical University. The experiment simulated the actual combustion process under the conditions of an inlet total pressure ranging from 600 to 900 kPa, an inlet total temperature of 810 K, and an inlet Mach number of 2.0. The results show that as the equivalence ratio of kerosene increases, the combustor goes through three modes sequentially: pure scramjet mode, dual-mode scramjet mode, and dual-mode ramjet mode. The peak pressure ratio of the combustor corresponding to the combustion mode transition boundary is 1.95 and 3.5, respectively, and the Mach number at the exit of the isolator is 2.26 and 1.0, respectively. The mode transition boundary remains unchanged regardless of the inlet total pressure. When the position of the peak pressure point is stably located near the upstream cavity, the combustor operates in dual-mode ramjet mode, while when the position of the peak pressure point is stably located near the downstream cavity, the combustor operates in dual-mode scramjet mode. As the position of the measurement point gets closer to the downstream, the relative coefficient of wall pressure change becomes higher in terms of wall pressure measurement. The greatest variation in the relative coefficient of wall pressure occurs at x = 370 mm, indicating the highest sensitivity. It is the most suitable parameter for controlling the fuel flow of the dual-mode scramjet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pregnant patients with obesity may have compromised noninvasive blood pressure (NIBP) measurement. We assessed the accuracy and trending ability of the ClearSight™ finger cuff (FC) with invasive arterial monitoring (INV) and arm NIBP, in obese patients having cesarean delivery. Methods: Participants were aged ≥18 years, ≥34 weeks gestation, and body mass index (BMI) ≥ 40 kg m−2. FC, INV, and NIBP measurements were obtained across 5‐min intervals. The primary outcome was agreement of FC measurements with those of the reference standard INV, using modified Bland–Altman plots. Secondary outcomes included comparisons between FC and NIBP and NIBP versus INV, with four‐quadrant plots performed to report discordance rates and evaluate trending ability. Results: Twenty‐three participants had a median (IQR) BMI of 45 kg m−2 (44–48). When comparing FC and INV the mean bias (SD, 95% limits of agreement) for systolic blood pressure (SBP) was 16 mmHg (17, −17.3 to 49.3 mmHg), for diastolic blood pressure (DBP) −0.2 mmHg (10.5, −20.7 to 20.3), and for mean arterial pressure (MAP) 5.2 mmHg (11.1, −16.6 to 27.0 mmHg). Discordance occurred in 54 (26%) pairs for SBP, 41 (23%) for DBP, and 41 (21.7%) for MAP. Error grid analysis showed 92.1% of SBP readings in Zone A (no‐risk zone). When comparing NIBP and INV, the mean bias (95% limits of agreement) for SBP was 13.0 mmHg (16.7, −19.7 to 29.3), for DBP 5.9 mmHg (11.9, −17.4 to 42.0), and for MAP 8.2 mmHg (11.9, −15.2 to 31.6). Discordance occurred in SBP (84 of 209, 40.2%), DBP (74 of 187, 39.6%), and MAP (63 of 191, 33.0%). Conclusions: The FC and NIBP techniques were not adequately in agreement with INV. Trending capability was better for FC than NIBP. Clinically important differences may occur in the setting of the perfusion‐dependent fetus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While physical activity (PA) is understood to promote vascular health, little is known about whether the daily and weekly patterns of PA accumulation associate with vascular health. Accelerometer‐derived (activPAL3) 6‐ or 7‐day stepping was analyzed for 6430 participants in The Maastricht Study (50.4% women; 22.4% Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM)). Multivariable regression models examined associations between stepping metrics (average step count, and time spent slower and faster paced stepping) with arterial stiffness (measured as carotid–femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV)), and several indices of microvascular health (heat‐induced skin hyperemia, retinal vessel reactivity and diameter), adjusting for confounders and moderators. PA pattern metrics were added to the regression models to identify associations with vascular health beyond that of stepping metrics. Analyses were stratified by T2DM status if an interaction effect was present. Average step count and time spent faster paced stepping was associated with better vascular health, and the association was stronger in those with compared to those without T2DM. In fully adjusted models a higher step count inter‐daily stability was associated with a higher (worse) cfPWV in those without T2DM (std β = 0.04, p = 0.007) and retinal venular diameter in the whole cohort (std β = 0.07, p = 0.002). A higher within‐day variability in faster paced stepping was associated with a lower (worse) heat‐induced skin hyperemia in those with T2DM (std β = −0.31, p = 0.008). Above and beyond PA volume, the daily and weekly patterns in which PA was accumulated were additionally associated with improved macro‐ and microvascular health, which may have implications for the prevention of vascular disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aortic pressure can be estimated using one-dimensional arterial flow simulations. This study demonstrates that two peripheral pressure measurements can be used to acquire the central pressure curve through the patient-specific optimization of a set of system parameters. Radial and carotid pressure measurements and parameter optimization were performed in the case of 62 patients. The two calculated aortic curves were in good agreement, Systolic and Mean Blood Pressures differed on average by 0.5 and −0.5 mmHg, respectively. Good agreement was achieved with the transfer function method as well. The effect of carotid clamping is demonstrated using one resulting patient-specific arterial network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Respiratory diseases, including the cronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are among the leading causes of death worldwide. To date, there is no physical examination procedure that can quantify important parameters within a specific lesion area inside the lung. In this study, we propose a novel sensor probe system consisting of a basket forceps and 2 pressure sensors to simultaneously measure the expiratory airflow and the static pressure inside the pulmonary airway. A Pitot tube mechanism using 2 pressure sensors is introduced in the system for measuring both the physical quantities. Small fiber‐optic pressure sensors with 0.3 mm diameter were utilized, and both the airflow rate and the static pressure characteristics were evaluated for obtaining the calibration curves. Finally, the proposed sensor system was implemented to measure both the airflow and pressure in an artificial ventilator and an experimental animal. The measurement of expired airflow and static pressure inside the airway of a rat with the diameter of 1.8 mm were demonstrated. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineer of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By utilizing progress in millijoule-level pulsed fiber lasers operating in the 1.96 µm spectral range, we introduce a concept utilizing a spaceborne differential absorption barometric lidar designed to operate within the 1.96 µm CO2 absorption band for remote sensing of Martian atmospheric properties. Our focus is on the online wavelength situated in the trough region of two absorption lines, selected due to its insensitivity to laser frequency variations, thus mitigating the necessity for stringent laser frequency stability. Our investigation revolves around a compact lidar configuration, featuring reduced telescope dimensions and lower laser pulse energies. These adjustments are geared towards minimizing costs for potential forthcoming Mars missions. The core measurement objectives encompass the determination of column CO2 absorption optical depth, columnar CO2 abundance, surface atmospheric pressure, and vertical distributions of dust and cloud layers. Through the amalgamation of surface pressure data with atmospheric temperature insights garnered from sounders and utilizing the barometric formula, the prospect of deducing atmospheric pressure profiles becomes feasible. Simulation studies validate the viability of our approach. Notably, the precision of Martian surface pressure measurements is projected to surpass 1 Pa when the aerial dust optical depth is projected to be under 0.7, a typical airborne dust scenario on Mars, considering a horizontal averaging span of 10 km. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arterial occlusion pressure (AOP) of the brachial artery was measured simultaneously using Doppler ultrasound (US), a hand-held Doppler (HHDOP), and a pulse oximeter (PO) in the dominant (DOM) and nondominant (NDOM) arms of males (n = 21) and females (n = 23) using continuous (CONT) and incremental (INCR) cuff inflation protocols. A mixed-model analysis of variance revealed significant (p, 0.05) overall main effects between AOP measured using a CONT (115.7 ± 10.9) or INCR (115.0 ± 11.5) cuff inflation protocol; between AOP measured using US (116.3 ± 11.2), HHDOP (115.4 ± 11.2), and PO (114.4 ± 11.2); and between males (120.7 6 10.6) and females (110.569.4). The small overall difference (1.8163.3) between US and PO measures of AOP was significant (p, 0.05), but the differences between US and HHDOP and between HHDOP and PO measures of AOP were not significant. There were no overall differences in AOP between the DOM and NDOM arms. Trial-to-trial variance in US measurements of AOP was not significant when using either cuff inflation protocol but was significant when using HHDOP and PO and a CONT cuff inflation protocol. Bland-Altman plots revealed reasonable limits of agreement for both HHDOP and PO measures of AOP. The small differences in US, HHDOP, and PO measurements of AOP when using CONT or INCR cuff inflation protocols are of minimal practical importance. The choice of cuff inflation protocol is one of personal preference. Hand-held Doppler of PO can be used to assess AOP before using blood flow restriction during exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluids and melts in planetary interiors significantly influence geodynamic processes from volcanism to global‐scale differentiation. The roles of these geofluids depend on their viscosities (η). Constraining geofluid η at relevant pressures and temperatures relies on laboratory‐based measurements and is most widely done using Stokes' Law viscometry with falling spheres. Yet small sample chambers required by high‐pressure experiments introduce significant drag on the spheres. Several correction schemes are available for Stokes' Law but there is no consensus on the best scheme(s) for high‐pressure experiments. We completed high‐pressure experiments to test the effects of (a) the relative size of the sphere diameter to the chamber diameter and (b) the top and bottom of the chamber, that is, the ends, on the sphere velocities. We examined the influence of current correction schemes on the estimated viscosity using Monte Carlo simulations. We also compared previous viscometry work on various geofluids in different experimental setups/geometries. We find the common schemes for Stokes' Law produce statistically distinct values of η. When inertia of the sphere is negligible, the most appropriate scheme may be the Faxén correction for the chamber walls. Correction for drag due to the chamber ends depends on the precision in the sinking distance and may be ineffective with decreasing sphere size. Combining the wall and end corrections may overcorrect η. We also suggest the uncertainty in η is best captured by the correction rather than propagated errors from experimental parameters. We develop an overlying view of Stokes' Law viscometry at high pressures. Plain Language Summary: Liquids and vapors, collectively known as fluids, occur throughout the Earth and other planets. Compared to solid rock, fluids can move rapidly due to their lower viscosities and hence influence and promote important geologic processes. The large span of pressures and temperatures inside planets influences the viscosities of fluids. Measuring a fluid viscosity at relevant pressures is most often done by tracking a sphere that sinks in the fluid. The sinking speed of the sphere is converted to the fluid viscosity by balancing forces which cause and oppose the sinking, known as Stokes' Law. To create the right pressures, unique devices are used which require small chambers to house the fluid and sphere. The small chambers affect the sinking speeds and hence Stokes' Law becomes inaccurate. There are several corrections for the chamber effects on the sphere. However, there is no consensus on which correction should be used for high‐pressure measurements. We examined the chamber effects on the sinking speeds in high‐pressure experiments. We calculated the fluid viscosity using each correction and considered the uncertainties. We find that the corrections produce unique values of viscosity and are not equal. Future work should carefully consider the choice in correction. Key Points: We performed high‐pressure experiments to evaluate drag acting on falling spheres in Stokes' Law viscometryWe evaluated different correction schemes for Stokes' Law and used Monte Carlo simulations to evaluate the uncertainties in each schemeThe best correction may be for drag due to the chamber walls, while other corrections may be ineffective or over‐correct the viscosity [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A cone-cylinder-flare model with sharp and blunt nosetips was tested at the AFRL Mach-6 Ludwieg Tube at a 0 ∘ angle of attack. Surface-pressure fluctuation measurements, high-speed schlieren images, and surface-heat-transfer measurements were taken to study instability and transition as related to an axisymmetric separation bubble downstream of each nosetip. Three nosetip radii were tested, nominally sharp (0.1 mm), 1 mm, and 5 mm. Time-averaged schlieren imagery revealed a smaller bubble for the sharp and 1 mm nosetips than for the 5 mm nosetip. Heat flux measurements revealed streamwise streaks downstream of reattachment that increased in prominence with increasing nosetip bluntness. Surface pressure measurements and high-speed schlieren images include fluctuations below 100 kHz that traverse downstream in the shear layer and the reattached boundary layer for all three nose radii. Wisp-like structures similar to those seen with other blunt geometries were observed traveling downstream in the shear layer over the bubble for the 5 mm nosetip. Nosetip bluntness resulted in delayed transition relative to the sharp tip, with the effect being more significant for the 5 mm nose than for the 1 mm nosetip. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE To investigate whether pulse-wave analysis (PWA) performed by trained evaluators facilitates detection of nonsinus rhythm. ANIMALS Same-day, high-definition oscillometry pulse-wave data and ECG results of 155 animals (144 dogs and 11 cats) were analyzed. METHODS In this cross-sectional study, we enrolled 18 participants from various backgrounds, all of whom received PWA training. The ability to distinguish between sinus and nonsinus rhythms was assessed using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. The pulse-wave datasets were divided into 5 ECG categories. Agreement between ECG diagnoses and PWA-based arrhythmia detection was evaluated using Cohen κ values, and the correlation between the academic year of veterinary students and their κ values was assessed. RESULTS All cardiology researchers demonstrated satisfactory accuracy in distinguishing pathological rhythms using PWA (area under the curve, 0.704 to 0.761), with the highest accuracy in detecting atrial fibrillation (area under the curve, 0.811 to 0.845). Fair agreement with ECG categorization was achieved by all 3 cardiology researchers, 2 of 5 general practitioners, and 3 of 10 veterinary undergraduates. The veterinary undergraduates’ years of study were correlated with their diagnostic performance (Spearman ρ = 0.658; P = .019). CLINICAL RELEVANCE PWA during routine noninvasive blood pressure measurement showed significant potential for the detection of pathological arrhythmias, notably atrial fibrillation. This approach yielded improved effectiveness when it was used by veterinarians with cardiology experience. Thus, introducing hands-on training courses, particularly those focused on cardiology and interactive workshops, may enable frontline veterinarians to promptly identify arrhythmias using PWA, facilitating timely ECG examinations or referrals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]