Recapitulation of Trophoblast Invasion During Pregnancy in a Physiological Hypoxia Induced Microfluidic Device

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jin Hyuk Woo ◽  
Insu Lee ◽  
Sun Min Kim ◽  
Tae-Joon Jeon
Keyword(s):  
Oxygen Concentration ◽  
Microfluidic Device ◽  
Hypoxic Condition ◽  
Trophoblast Invasion ◽  
Research Model ◽  
Spiral Artery ◽  
Umbilical Vessel ◽  
Healthy Pregnancy ◽  
Major Factors ◽  
And Control

Abstract Trophoblast invasion and remodeling of uterine spiral artery is closely related to the healthy pregnancy and normal development of fetus. However, if the trophoblast invasion is inhibited and the spiral artery remodeling process is not sufficiently done, this promotes grave pregnancy diseases such as pre-eclampsia. In this research we focused on one of the major factors that affect trophoblast invasion, oxygen concentration. We designed a microfluidic device fabricated with Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) which can mimic the microenvironment of the placenta and control physiological oxygen concentration. Human umbilical vessel cells (HUVEC) and trophoblasts (HTR-8) were cultured inside the microfluidic device to recapitulate the placental microenvironment. HUVECs and trophoblasts were co-cultured under normoxic and hypoxic condition to recapitulated trophoblast invasion. We anticipate this device to be utilized as a research model for improve our understandings on mechanisms of trophoblast invasion and a possible platform for developing treatment methods and medicines for pregnancy disorders.

Investigation of Cost-Influencing Factors Potentially ‎Controllable by Main Contractors in Construction Projects in ‎Iraq

2020 ◽  
Vol 38 (7A) ◽  
pp. 1069-1076
Author(s):  
Layth T. Ali ◽  
Raid S. Abid Ali ◽  
Zeyad S. M. Khaled
Keyword(s):  
Construction Projects ◽  
Project Managers ◽  
Cost Overrun ◽  
Public And Private ◽  
Importance Index ◽  
Labor Recruitment ◽  
Supply Planning ◽  
Major Factors ◽  
And Control ◽  
The Impact

Cost overrun in construction projects is a common phenomenon in Iraq. This might occur due to diversity of factors. This study aims to identify the factors influencing construction projects cost that are potentially controllable by main contractors. A field study through a questionnaire survey was directed to a sample of related Iraqi professional engineers from general contracting companies at both public and private sectors. Their opinions on the impact and frequency of each factor were investigated. The questionnaire offered (59) factors classified in (8) categories namely; legislations, financial and economic, design, contractual, site management, material, labor and equipment. The factors were ranked according to the highest Relative Importance Index (RII). The study revealed (10) major factors that are potentially controllable by main contractors namely; labor productivity, sub-contractors and suppliers performance, equipment productivity, site organization and distribution of equipment, experience and training of project managers, scheduling and control techniques, planning for materials supply, planning for equipment supply, materials delivery and planning for skilled labor recruitment. Recommendations to aid contractors and owners in early identification of these factors are also included in this study.

scholarly journals Induction of Neural Plasticity Using a Low-Cost Open Source Brain-Computer Interface and a 3D-Printed Wrist Exoskeleton

Sensors ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (2) ◽  
pp. 572
Author(s):  
Mads Jochumsen ◽  
Taha Al Muhammadee Janjua ◽  
Juan Carlos Arceo ◽  
Jimmy Lauber ◽  
Emilie Simoneau Buessinger ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Open Source ◽  
Neural Plasticity ◽  
Motor Evoked Potentials ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
True Positive Rate ◽  
Positive Rate ◽  
3D Printed ◽  
Major Factors ◽  
And Control ◽  
Bci System

Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) have been proven to be useful for stroke rehabilitation, but there are a number of factors that impede the use of this technology in rehabilitation clinics and in home-use, the major factors including the usability and costs of the BCI system. The aims of this study were to develop a cheap 3D-printed wrist exoskeleton that can be controlled by a cheap open source BCI (OpenViBE), and to determine if training with such a setup could induce neural plasticity. Eleven healthy volunteers imagined wrist extensions, which were detected from single-trial electroencephalography (EEG), and in response to this, the wrist exoskeleton replicated the intended movement. Motor-evoked potentials (MEPs) elicited using transcranial magnetic stimulation were measured before, immediately after, and 30 min after BCI training with the exoskeleton. The BCI system had a true positive rate of 86 ± 12% with 1.20 ± 0.57 false detections per minute. Compared to the measurement before the BCI training, the MEPs increased by 35 ± 60% immediately after and 67 ± 60% 30 min after the BCI training. There was no association between the BCI performance and the induction of plasticity. In conclusion, it is possible to detect imaginary movements using an open-source BCI setup and control a cheap 3D-printed exoskeleton that when combined with the BCI can induce neural plasticity. These findings may promote the availability of BCI technology for rehabilitation clinics and home-use. However, the usability must be improved, and further tests are needed with stroke patients.

scholarly journals Insurance Services with Special Reference to Star Health and Allied Insurance Company Limited

2019 ◽  
Vol 8 (2S8) ◽  
pp. 486-489
Keyword(s):  
Health Insurance ◽  
Insurance Industry ◽  
Insurance Company ◽  
Related Factors ◽  
Insurance Policies ◽  
Current Health ◽  
Company Limited ◽  
Major Factors ◽  
And Control ◽  
Indian Insurance

Medical coverage is budgetary instrument with which individuals are shielded against catastrophic financial weight emerging from unforeseen disease or damage. Having a well working protection system ensures pooling of assets to cover dangers. The medical coverage segment in India is in a beginning stage and a mere 9% of the complete populace is secured under any plan of medical coverage since Health Insurance policies are administrations and henceforth elusive in nature. So there is no prompt shot of acknowledging the services whether fortunate or unfortunate. Indian Insurance Industry has encountered a swelling impact after globalization and the progression of the economy. After the financial advancement, the paradigm changed from focal arranging, direction and control to showcase driven improvement. The level of buying of medical coverage shifts from individual to individual. It relies on numerous variables. The elements can be classified into individual, social, financial, mental and friends related factors. On the off chance that the health insurance business wishes to pull its weight in forming this immense market, it needs to examine the major factors impacting the buy of medical coverage arrangements, With rivalry developing perpetually, insurers need to be in the nonstop procedure of item advancement concoct inventive approaches to contribute toward actualizing the administration's need of offering medical coverage to poor. The current health insurance projects required considerable changes to make them increasingly effective and socially helpful.

scholarly journals Spiral artery blood flow during pregnancy: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Veronique Schiffer ◽  
Laura Evers ◽  
Sander de Haas ◽  
Chahinda Ghossein ◽  
Salwan Al-Nasiry ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Blood Flow ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Resistance Index ◽  
First Trimester ◽  
Trophoblast Invasion ◽  
Cochrane Library ◽  
Second Trimester ◽  
Spiral Artery ◽  
Third Trimester

Abstract Background: Downstream remodeling of the spiral arteries (SpA) decreases utero-placental resistance drastically, allowing sustained and increased blood flow to the placenta at all circumstances. We systematically evaluated available reports to visualize adaptation of spiral arteries throughout pregnancy by ultra-sonographic measurements and evaluated when this process is completed.Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis of spiral artery flow (pulsatility index (PI), resistance index (RI) and peak systolic velocity (PSV)) was performed. English articles were obtained from Pubmed, EMBASE and Cochrane Library and included articles were assessed on quality and risk of bias. Weighted means of Doppler indices were calculated using a random-effects model. Results: In healthy pregnancies, PI and RI decreased from 0.75 (95% CI: 0.67-0.83) and 0.49 (95% CI: 0.46-0.53) in the first trimester to 0.52 (95% CI: 0.48-0.56, p=0.003) and 0.40 (95% CI: 0.38-0.42, p=0.080) in the second trimester and to 0.49 (95% CI: 0.44-0.53, p=0.510) and 0.36 (95% CI: 0.35-0.37, p=0.307) in the third trimester, respectively. In parallel, PSV altered from 0.24 m/s (95% CI: 0.17-0.31 m/s) to 0.28 m/s (95% CI: 0.22-0.34 m/s, p=0.377) and to 0.25 m/s (95% CI: 0.21-0.28 m/s, p=0.919) in the three trimesters. In absence of second and third trimester Doppler data in complicated gestation, only a difference in PI was observed between complicated and healthy pregnancies during the first trimester (1.49 vs 0.76, p<0.001). Although individual studies have identified differences in PI between SpA located in the central part of the placental bed versus those located at its periphery, this meta-analysis could not confirm this (p=0.349).Conclusions: This review and meta-analysis concludes that an observed decrease of SpA PI and RI from the first towards the second trimester parallels the physiological trophoblast invasion converting SpA during early gestation, a process completed in the midst of the second trimester. Higher PI and RI were found in SpA of complicated pregnancies compared to healthy pregnancies, possibly reflecting suboptimal utero-placental circulation. Longitudinal studies examining comprehensively the predictive value of spiral artery Doppler for complicated pregnancies are yet to be carried out.

Fabrication of Microfluidic Manifold by Precision Extrusion Deposition and Replica Molding for Cell-Laden Device

2015 ◽  
Vol 138 (4) ◽  
Author(s):  
Jessica Snyder ◽  
Ae Rin Son ◽  
Qudus Hamid ◽  
Wei Sun
Keyword(s):  
Microfluidic Device ◽  
Molding Process ◽  
Channel Network ◽  
Embedded Networks ◽  
Replica Molding ◽  
Cell Printing ◽  
Construction Methods ◽  
Cell Placement ◽  
And Control ◽  
Guided Tissue Engineering

A PED (precision extrusion deposition)/replica molding process enables scaffold guided tissue engineering of a heterocellular microfluidic device. We investigate two types of cell-laden devices: the first with a 3D microfluidic manifold fully embedded in a PDMS (polydimethylsiloxane) substrate and the second a channel network on the surface of the PDMS substrate for cell printing directly into device channels. Fully embedded networks are leak-resistant with simplified construction methods. Channels exposed to the surface are used as mold to hold bioprinted cell-laden matrix for controlled cell placement throughout the network from inlet to outlet. The result is a 3D cell-laden microfluidic device with improved leak-resistance (up to 2.0 mL/min), pervasive diffusion and control of internal architecture.

scholarly journals Potential of Water Hyacinth Infestation on Lake Tana, Ethiopia: A Prediction Using a GIS-Based Multi-Criteria Technique

Water ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (9) ◽  
pp. 1921 ◽  
Author(s):  
Dersseh ◽  
Kibret ◽  
Tilahun ◽  
Worqlul ◽  
Moges ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Water Hyacinth ◽  
Geographical Information ◽  
Lake Depth ◽  
Invasive Weed ◽  
Lake Tana ◽  
The North ◽  
Multi Criteria Evaluation ◽  
The World ◽  
Major Factors ◽  
And Control

Water hyacinth is a well-known invasive weed in lakes across the world and harms the aquatic environment. Since 2011, the weed has invaded Lake Tana substantially posing a challenge to the ecosystem services of the lake. The major factors which affect the growth of the weed are phosphorus, nitrogen, temperature, pH, salinity, and lake depth. Understanding and investigating the hotspot areas is vital to predict the areas for proper planning of interventions. The main objective of this study is therefore to predict the hotspot areas of the water hyacinth over the surface of the lake using the geographical information system (GIS)-based multi-criteria evaluation (MCE) technique. The main parameters used in the multi-criteria analysis were total phosphorus (>0.08 mg L−1), total nitrogen (>1.1 mg L−1), temperature (<26.2 °C), pH (<8.6), salinity (<0.011%), and depth (<6 m). These parameters were collected from 143 sampling sites on the lake in August, December (2016), and March (2017). Fuzzy overlay spatial analysis was used to overlay the different parameters to obtain the final prediction map of water hyacinth infestation areas. The results indicated that 24,969 ha (8.1%), 21,568.7 ha (7.1%), and 24,036 ha (7.9%) of the lake are susceptible to invasion by the water hyacinth in August, December, and March, respectively. At the maximum historical lake level, 30,728.4 ha will be the potential susceptible area for water hyacinth growth and expansion at the end of the rainy season in August. According to the result of this study, the north and northeastern parts of the lake are highly susceptible for invasion. Hence, water hyacinth management and control plans shall mainly focus on the north and northeastern part of Lake Tana and upstream contributing watersheds.

Deep trophoblast invasion and spiral artery remodelling in the placental bed of the lowland gorilla

Placenta ◽  
2011 ◽  
Vol 32 (8) ◽  
pp. 586-591 ◽  
Author(s):  
R. Pijnenborg ◽  
L. Vercruysse ◽  
A.M. Carter
Keyword(s):  
Trophoblast Invasion ◽  
Spiral Artery

scholarly journals Oxygen Distribution and Air Leakage Law in Gob of Working Face of U+L Ventilation System

2019 ◽  
Vol 2019 ◽  
pp. 1-10
Author(s):  
Xiaowei Zhai ◽  
Bo Wang ◽  
Shangrong Jiang ◽  
Weixia Zhang
Keyword(s):  
Oxygen Concentration ◽  
Spontaneous Combustion ◽  
Ventilation System ◽  
Burial Depth ◽  
Air Leakage ◽  
Coal Spontaneous Combustion ◽  
Working Face ◽  
Air Intake ◽  
And Control ◽  
The Relationship

In order to prevent and control coal spontaneous combustion effectively in the gob of U+L working face, the 30105 working face of Hanglaiwan mine was taken as the research object. The relationship models between oxygen concentration and burial depth of the two tunnels in the gob of U+L working face were established. The distribution of oxygen in the gob of the working face of U+L ventilation system was studied by field observation combined with numerical simulation. The results show that the air leakage in the gob is serious. There are a number of fluctuation areas where the oxygen concentration first decreases and then increases in the air intake side of the gob. The oxygen concentration peaked at 100m, 175m, and 245m, respectively, from the intake side of the gob. In the same position of the gob depth, the air leakage intensity on the intake side is generally higher than that on the return side, and the oxygen concentration on the intake side of the gob is slower than the return side. Oxygen concentration maintains at 5.09% when the depth of gob reaches 400m. Measures to prevent coal spontaneous combustion should be strengthened in the air intake side.

Safety Analysis and Risk Assessment for Pressure Systems

2003 ◽  
Author(s):  
Boris Blyukher
Keyword(s):  
System Analysis ◽  
Hazard Analysis ◽  
Safety Analysis ◽  
Risk Level ◽  
Analysis And Design ◽  
Analysis Process ◽  
Major Factors ◽  
Serious Injuries ◽  
And Control ◽  
Research Facilities

There have been many instances where serious injuries and fatalities have resulted from over-pressurization, thermal stress, asphyxiation and other potential hazards associated with testing, handling and storage of compressed gases and pressure facilities at numerous production and research facilities. These hazards are major issues that should be addressed in system design and in materials selection appropriate for high pressure applications. Potential hazards may be mitigated through system analysis and design process which are the major factors in preventing thermal/pressure hazards caused by possible leaks and fragmentation, in the case of rupture. This paper presents a conceptual model and framework for developing a safety analysis which will reduce potential hazards, accidents and legal liabilities. The proposed systematic approach allows to identify hazards provide timely documentation of potential hazards and risks associated with systems, facilities, and equipment. As a result of this hazard analysis process, provisions and actions for hazard prevention and control have been put in place, and all identifiable potential hazards can be reduced to a low risk level.

scholarly journals Inverted formin 2 regulates intracellular trafficking, placentation, and pregnancy outcome

eLife ◽  
2018 ◽  
Vol 7 ◽  
Author(s):  
Katherine Young Bezold Lamm ◽  
Maddison L Johnson ◽  
Julie Baker Phillips ◽  
Michael B Muntifering ◽  
Jeanne M James ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Intracellular Trafficking ◽  
Gestational Hypertension ◽  
Fetal Distress ◽  
Trophoblast Invasion ◽  
Vascular Density ◽  
Placental Perfusion ◽  
Healthy Pregnancy ◽  
Umbilical Artery Doppler ◽  
Placental Ischemia ◽  
Extravillous Trophoblasts

Healthy pregnancy depends on proper placentation—including proliferation, differentiation, and invasion of trophoblast cells—which, if impaired, causes placental ischemia resulting in intrauterine growth restriction and preeclampsia. Mechanisms regulating trophoblast invasion, however, are unknown. We report that reduction of Inverted formin 2 (INF2) alters intracellular trafficking and significantly impairs invasion in a model of human extravillous trophoblasts. Furthermore, global loss of Inf2 in mice recapitulates maternal and fetal phenotypes of placental insufficiency. Inf2−/− dams have reduced spiral artery numbers and late gestational hypertension with resolution following delivery. Inf2−/− fetuses are growth restricted and demonstrate changes in umbilical artery Doppler consistent with poor placental perfusion and fetal distress. Loss of Inf2 increases fetal vascular density in the placenta and dysregulates trophoblast expression of angiogenic factors. Our data support a critical regulatory role for INF2 in trophoblast invasion—a necessary process for placentation—representing a possible future target for improving placentation and fetal outcomes.

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