bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic Picking and Storage Optimization of Robotic Picking Systems
Authors: Chi Cheng , Wu Shasha , Xia Delong , Wu Yaohua
Published: July 2021

With the development of e-commerce and the improvement of logistics requirements, more and more ‘parts-to-picker’ picking systems begin to replace the inefficient ‘picker-to-parts’ picking systems in various scenarios. As the mainstream ‘parts-to-picker’ system, the robotic mobile fulfillment system has been attracting much attention in recent years. In addition to the customer's changing requirements, the rapid response of the picking system to the order is particularly important. In the above context, to seek a breakthrough in the picking system's picking efficiency without increasing the cost of additional equipment, the storage allocation of the pods becomes very important. This article focuses on the dynamic storage allocation of robotic mobile fulfillment system, which has positive theoretical and practical significance. By analyzing the pod storage process of the robotic mobile fulfillment system, a dynamic pod storage allocation model suitable for the robotic mobile fulfillment system is established with the goal of minimizing the pod handling distance. Two dynamic pod storage allocation strategies are proposed for the system. By simulating the picking systems of different scales, the effectiveness of the dynamic storage allocation strategy is verified, which has a certain reference to the operation of the robotic mobile fulfillment system in practice.
Dual Mobility Cups Present Promising Outcomes in Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty Patients At A Risk of Dislocation
Authors: Moon Nam Hoon , Do Min Uk , Kim Jung Shin , Seo Jae Seung , Shin Won Chul
Published: July 2021

Introduction

This study aimed to evaluate the early results of primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) using dual mobility (DM) cups in patients at a risk of dislocation and compare them with that of fixed bearing (FB) THA.
Materials and methods

This retrospective study included patients who had undergone primary THA between January 2016 and December 2018 and were at a risk of dislocation. A propensity score-matched analysis was conducted for 63 THA procedures with vitamin-E infused highly cross-linked polyethylene (VEPE) DM bearing and 63 THA procedures performed with FB from the same manufacturer for a mean follow-up period of 3.1 and 3.5 years, respectively. The radiologic outcomes at the last follow-up and incidence of postoperative complications were evaluated and compared statistically between the two groups. The modified Harris hip score (mHHS) was used to assess patient-reported outcomes.
Results

Postoperative dislocation occurred in 4 cases (6.3%) in the FB group, but did not occur in the DM group (p = 0.042). There was no difference in the radiologic outcomes and postoperative complications between the two groups. The mHHS at the last follow-up showed satisfactory outcomes in both the groups (DM group, 90.5; FB group, 88.1), without a statistical difference between the groups.
Conclusion

The early results of THA using VEPE DM bearing showed better outcomes than that of THA with FB for patients at a risk of dislocation. A longer follow-up period is recommended to assess the stability and overall outcomes.
Olfactory Dysfunction After Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Authors: Wang Yaxi , Li Hua , Huang Xuanping , Zhou Nuo
Published: July 2021

Background: Although anesthesia can contribute to olfactory dysfunction, it is a rare complication after oral and maxillofacial surgery by general anesthesia.Cases presentation: In this study, we introduced 3 cases of patient suffering from anosmia (complete loss of smell), after oral and maxillofacial surgery by general anesthesia. We also investigated possible etiologies of anosmia. Conclusions: There are some evidences that anosmia is caused by nasotracheal intubation, which may cause OM injury and/or swing of the nasal septum in patients with nasal septum deviation. Olfactory dysfunction via general anesthetic drugs, however, may have a different etiology.
Electroencephalogram (EEG) Controlled Anatomical Robot Hand
Authors: Herath H.M.K.K.M.B. , de Mel W.R.
Published: July 2021

Today, millions of peoples are suffering due to the lack of a functional arm preventing from doing things. In Sri Lanka there are about over thousands of people are suffering from disabilities. Sri Lanka Ministry of Health state that the number of disabled persons in Sri Lanka will be increased by 24.2% by 2025. Most of them will suffer from hand disabilities. Disabling a hand costs huge disadvantages to a human being. Living without a hand will be a major problem for those who having hand disabilities. The aim of this project is to give a solution to those who suffer from hand disabilities and make their life efficient and easy. The biosignal-based controlling system is the next step in order to achieve more accuracy. Bio-signals are referring as the Electroencephalography (EEG), Electromyogram (EMG) and Electrocardiogram (ECG) signals. The robot hand motions and movements of the fingers will be completely dependent on the brainwaves which human beings will produce. This project mainly focused on Electroencephalography (EEG) signals also known as the brain waves. The methodology of this project is based on the field of robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), anatomy, neuroanatomy, and biosignal.
Macrophage Polarization-Related Gene Signature for Risk Stratification and Prognosis of Survival in Gliomas
Authors: Zhang Jingwei , Li Shuwang , Liu Fangkun
Published: July 2021

Macrophage polarization plays an essential role in tumor immune cells infiltration and tumor growth. We selected a series of genes distinguishing between M1 and M2 macrophage and explored their prognostic value in gliomas. A total of 170 genes were included in our study. CGGA database was used as the training cohort, and the TCGA database as the validation cohort. The biological processes and functions were identified by GO and KEGG analysis. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to compare survival differences between groups. Finally, GEPIA was applied to explore immune infiltrates in the tumor microenvironment. Importantly, we re-verified the results using our sequencing data. We build a risk score model using Cox regression analysis based on the CGGA and verified in the TCGA database and our sequencing data. Patients with gliomas in the high-risk group were associated with high grade, IDH WT status, MGMT promoter unmethylation, 1p19q non-codeletion, and prone to have a poor outcome. Moreover, these genes play an essential role in immune infiltrations in LGG and GBM microenvironments. Macrophage polarization-related gene signature can predict the malignancy and outcome of patients with gliomas and might act as a promising target for glioma immunotherapy in the future.
Prognostic Factors for Successful Percutaneous Disc Decompression Using the Navigable Device L’DISQ in Patients with Lumbar Discogenic Pain
Authors: Kim Ji Yeong , Lee Ku Sang , Jung Sang Min , Kim Young Hoon
Published: July 2021

The navigable percutaneous disc decompression (PDD) device L’DISQ is an effective and safe option for the treatment of lumbar discogenic pain. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the prognostic factors associated with the successful outcome of PDD using the L’DISQ for treating lumbar discogenic pain by following up patients before and 1, 2, 3, and 6 months after the procedure. A successful outcome was defined as a ≥ 50% reduction in the numeric rating scale scores for pain and a ≥ 40% reduction in the Oswestry disability index scores at 6 months after the procedure. Clinical parameters and patient demographics, including pain duration, history of surgery, number of treatment levels, and radiographic findings of lumbar magnetic resonance imaging, were also examined. Of the 106 patients included, 80 (75.5%) had successful outcomes at 6 months. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that the presence of high-intensity zones (HIZs) (P = 0.016) was an independent positive predictor of successful PDD outcomes; conversely, migration of the herniated disc (P = 0.017) and bilaterally herniated discs (P = 0.001) were negative predictors. Therefore, the presence of HIZs, absence of migration of herniated discs, and presence of unilaterally herniated discs are positive predictors of successful outcomes.
Multifocal Pancreatic and Liver PEComas Mimic Metastatic Tumors: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Guan Jian , Shen Guihua , Huang Wenting
Published: July 2021

Background: Perivascular epithelioid cell tumor (PEComa) is a mesenchyme tumor derived from soft tissues and organs. Its morphology includes several types such as angiomyolipoma, lymphangiomyomatosis and pulmonary clear-cell “sugar” tumor with similar immunophenotype. Multifocal PEComas are rare lesions, which would confuse imaging examination and clinical management. We reported a case of multifocal angiomyolipomas in the pancreas and liver in a young patient. And we reviewed the literature to explore the clinicopathological characteristics and possible pathogenesis of multifocal PEComas.Case presentation: A 28-year-old woman presented with a lesion in the head of the pancreas and liver 5/6 segment respectively, initially suspected of a pancreatic tumor with liver metastasis. To explore the nature of the lesion, a liver mass resection and a pancreatic mass biopsy were performed at the first operation. After the postoperative pathology was confirmed as an epithelioid angiomyolipoma, the patient underwent a pancreatic segmental resection. After the operation, the patient did not receive any adjuvant treatment and was followed up for 25 months without tumor recurrence or metastasis.Conclusion: Multifocal PEComas present a chronic clinical course and have a good prognosis. Surgical resection is the main treatment. In the diagnosis, in addition to metastatic tumors, multifocal lesions also need to be differentiated with multifocal PEComa; in the treatment, radical treatment should not be performed for this type of disease; in the long-term monitoring of the disease, it is necessary to consider the possibility of a second or a greater number of PEComa lesions even many years later.
Large eddy simulation of flow around semi-conical piers vertically mounted on the bed
Authors: Aghaee-Shalmani Yasin , Hakimzadeh Habib
Published: July 2021

In this paper, details, and results of three-dimensional numerical modeling of flow around the semi-conical piers vertically mounted on the bed in a channel, are presented. For flow simulation, 3-D Navier-Stokes equations are solved numerically using the finite volume method and large eddy simulation (LES). In this study, the semi-conical piers with different side slope angles are tested, and the flow around them is compared with the cylindrical reference pier. Flow structures, vortex shedding behind piers, horseshoe vortices, instantaneous and time-averaged flow structures are presented and discussed. Numerical model results show that the semi-conical piers are eventuated remarkable reduction (up to 25%) in downward flow velocity in the upstream side of the piers, and much more reduction (up to 46%) in bed shear stresses in comparison with the cylindrical pier. Moreover, the model results showed some decrease in vortex shedding frequency for the semiconical piers compared to the cylindrical pier.
DEVELOPMENT OF DIRECTIONS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF SERVICES BASED ON THE USE OF POTENTIAL NATURAL HEALING RESOURCES OF THE REGION
Authors:   Perm Institute (branch) of the Russian Economic University named after G. V. Plekhanov, Oborin M.
Published: July 2021

The article is devoted to the situational analysis of the directions of services development in the region and increasing the commercial effect of their use, taking into account the unique physical and chemical characteristics of natural healing resources. In the current economic conditions, optimizing the use of resource potential is significant and allows you to implement several strategic goals. The mass use of mineral waters in the system of tourist and recreational organizations allows you to diversify the offer of the sanatorium and resort complex, contribute to the saturation of the market of medical and recreational services and stimulate demand. The purpose of the study is to determine the directions of development of services in the region based on the use of potential natural healing resources that have value properties for the psychophysiological recovery of a person. Research objectives: 1) characteristics of natural healing resources of the Perm Territory; 2) description of the physical and chemical characteristics of mineral waters and their impact on the development of the medical profile of resort medicine enterprises; 3) development of directions for the development of services in the region, taking into account the value characteristics of the resource potential. The research methods are analytical, systematic and modeling of economic processes. The study has revealed the high importance of some territories of the Perm Region for the development of the sphere of medical and health services. Improving the commercial efficiency of mineral water use should be developed taking into account the directions of the impact on human health, stable domestic demand and the infrastructure of resort areas. Trends in a healthy lifestyle have a positive impact on the development of the market of services related to wellness, cosmetology, and rational nutrition. The proposed directions for the development of the service sector are based on the unique properties of the mineral waters of the therapeutic areas of the Perm Region, and are related to the expectations of consumers
EFFICIENCY OF FIXED ASSETS REVALUATION AS A METHOD OF ASSET MANAGEMENT
Authors:   Transbaikal State University, Gonin V. , Panchenko E. ,   Transbaikal State University, Kibireva E. ,   Transbaikal State University, Nomokonova O. ,   Transbaikal State University
Published: July 2021

The method of asset management in connection with the development of the economic accounting system of financial and economic activity: accounting practices, practices, representation and compilation of accounting (financial) accounts of companies is described. This development is related to the use of international financial reporting standards, which are integrated into domestic practice. The aim of the study is to organize the effectiveness of fixed assets revaluation as an asset management method. To achieve the goal, the objectives are: to investigate the effectiveness of revaluation and impairment in the management of major funds; systematizing the overall stages of the method of assessing the value of fixed assets in revaluation and impairment; exploring opportunities to expand approaches to analyzing changes in balance sheet performance, financial performance reporting and financial performance in the asset management system. The object of the study is the cost of fixed assets. The authors have examined the method of revaluation and impairment, selected approaches to the study of the effectiveness of revaluation for the purpose of strategic and tactical asset management. The authors conclude that a comprehensive approach to asset management is needed when reevaluating the value of fixed assets. A comprehensive approach should be based on the development of revaluation and impairment techniques to analyze the effectiveness of the financial and economic system and balance sheet control and the financial performance report in strategic and tactical asset management
Digitalization of Economy and Education: Path to Business Leadership and National Security
Authors: Novikov Vladyslav V.
Published: July 2021

The article summarizes the areas of research on the integration of digitalization of the economy and education with the areas of business leadership and national security. The main purpose of the study is to determine the contextual characteristics that accompany the development of digitalization of the economy and digitalization of education and their impact on business development and the formation of national security. Existing theoretical and empirical research demonstrates meaningful links between the digitalization of education and the economy, business leadership and national security. The analysis showed that scientific interest in studying the digitalization of education and the economy continues to grow at the present stage, while research on national security and business leadership is currently declining. Bibliometric analysis shows that the relationship between the digitalization of the economy and education with business leadership can be traced in functional areas. On the other hand, the impact of the digitalization of the economy and education on national security can be identified by structural components. One should note that the evolution of scientific research is characterized by the transition from the study of individual structural elements and the penetration of digital technologies into the economy to identify areas for efficiency through digital and information technology. The analysis results provide a scientific basis for further research on key determinants of the effectiveness of the implementation of digital technologies in the economy and education, as well as the study of national security.
Adaptation of Statistics Anxiety Scale to Turkish: Validity and Reliability Study
Authors: DURAK İsmail , KARAGÖZ Yalçın
Published: July 2021

The aim of this study is to adapt the Statistics Anxiety Scale (SAS) developed by Vigil-Colet et al. (2008) to Turkish. This study is expected to fill an important gap in the literature since no valid and reliable specific statistics anxiety scale developed or adapted in Turkish for undergraduate students in the literature is available. The sample consists of a total of 439 university students, 258 women and 181 men, studying at Düzce University. The construct validity of the Turkish form of SAS was examined by EFA and DFA. Also, for the criterion validity, a different statistics anxiety scale whose validity and reliability tested was used. As a result of EFA, a three-dimensional structure was obtained as in the structure of the original scale. According to the CFA results, which is the second analysis for construct validity, all fit index results of the model were at an acceptable level. Thus, the CFA results supported the three-factor structure obtained from EFA findings. As a result of the reliability analysis, the Cronbach's Alpha internal coefficients of the SAS and its subscales and, the Guttman and Spearman-Brown internal consistency coefficients of Split-Half Reliability methods were quite high and above the limit of 0.70. For item discrimination, items have good discrimination by obtaining all values above 0.30 lower limit in the results. When the results of the study are evaluated as a whole, the SAS form adapted to Turkish can be used as a guiding scale to measure the statistics anxiety of undergraduate students.
Validity Evidence for the Perceptions of Secondary School Students of ‘What Research is’ Scale and Measurement Invariance
Authors: ERYILMAZ Nurullah
Published: July 2021

Research is a concrete action in academia which has uplifted societies’ prosperity. Although researchers have given particular attention to student perceptions about what research is in a higher education context, little attention has been given to secondary school students’ perceptions about this issue. To fill this gap, Yeoman et al. (2016) qualitatively developed an instrument measuring secondary school students’ perceptions of what research is. The present study quantitatively validates this scale using the dataset originally used to qualitatively validate it. The factor structure of the ‘what research is’ scale and measurement invariance across gender, school type, and key stage was examined. The sample is composed of 2634 secondary school students in seven schools located in East Anglia, UK. The data from this original sample showed a relatively acceptable fit to the four-factor structure after omitting some items. The result also highlighted that whilst there was evidence on configural and metric level invariance (i.e. the factor structures and the factor loadings of the scale are equivalent across gender, school type, and key stage), scalar level invariance was not met (i.e. the item intercepts of the scale are not equivalent across gender, school type, and key stage). Recommendations for future studies and future directions for research are discussed.
Design and Implementation of COVID19 Safety Amalgamation
Authors: D’souza Akshan Sandeep , Hebbar Bhoomika Ramachandra , Chandan C , Lavanya B
Published: July 2021

This article gives an explanation about constructing the system that helps in preventing the open out of the virus and also minimizes human association with possible and reduces costs associated with hiring employees for manual thermal screening and readings. Thus, automating the tasks such as automatic temperature screening, face mask detection using image processing methods, and automatic hand sanitizer dispenser with the help of the Internet of Things (IoT). In a world battling against novel coronavirus disease, technology has been a lifesaver. This amalgamate system has features like a quick and efficient contactless automatic temperature screening and automatic mask detection along with an automatic hand sanitization system which will be a prototype built at a reduced cost which will helpfully be ensuring safety for Corona Virus Disease (COVID19) Pandemic.
Brote familiar de piodermitis por Staphylococcus aureus meticilino-resistente adquirido en la comunidad
Authors: Cruz-Choappa Rodrigo , Ocara Miranda , Haro César
Published: July 2021

Las infecciones por Staphylococcus aureus meticilino-resistente adquiridas en la comunidad son cada vez más frecuentes y se deben sospechar en casos de piodermitis u otras infecciones necrotizantes, tanto en niños como en adultos sin factores de riesgo clásicos. Se presenta un brote familiar de piodermitis por Staphylococcus aureus meticilino-resistente adquirido en la comunidad, ocurrido en la ciudad de Valparaíso-Chile, que afectó a una madre de veintiséis años y a su hijo de diez quienes debieron ser tratados con aseo quirúrgico y cotrimoxazol forte, con buena respuesta clínica.
Reactive orange 12 dye adsorption onto magnetically separable CaFe2O4 nanoparticles synthesized by simple chemical route: kinetic, isotherm and neural network modeling
Authors: Das Payel , Debnath Animesh
Published: July 2021

Industrial wastewaters laden with toxic dyes are required to be treated prior to their disposal in view of their adverse effect on human health and aquatic ecosystems. Thus in this research, CaFe2O4 nanoparticles were prepared and used as adsorbent for elimination of reactive orange 12 dye (RO12) from aqueous medium. The CaFe2O4 nanoparticles exhibit specific surface area of ∼230 m2/g and average pore diameter of ∼2.5 nm. Maximum RO12 removal of 77% was observed at solution pH 2.0 with uptake capacity of 276.92 mg/g. The electrostatic interaction between CaFe2O4 nanoparticles and RO12 was the main driving force behind this adsorption. The kinetic modeling reveals that this adsorption process obeyed the pseudo-second-order kinetic model accurately (R2: 0.988–0.994), indicating chemisorption behavior. The adsorption experimental data firmly followed the Langmuir isotherm model (R2: 0.997), confirming monolayer adsorption. Thermodynamic study suggests that the adsorption process is spontaneous (ΔG0 = −8.76 to −3.19 kJ/mol) and exothermic in nature (ΔH0 = –71.86 kJ). A neural network model (optimum topology of 4–7–1) was developed for precise forecasting of RO12 removal (%). The developed model with very high correlation coefficient (0.986) and very low mean squared error (0.00185) was successful for accurate prediction of experimental data.
Epigenetics of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer via Natural Compounds
Authors: Kaleem Mohammed , Perwaiz Maryam , Nur Suza Mohammad , Abdulrahman Abdulrasheed O. , Ahmad Wasim , Al-Abbasi Fahad A. , Kumar Vikas , Kamal Mohammad Amjad , Anwar Firoz
Published: July 2021

:

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly resistant, lethal, and metastatic
sub-division of breast carcinoma, characterized by the deficiency of estrogen receptor
(ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2).
In women, TNBC shows a higher aggressive behavior with poor patient prognosis and a
higher recurrence rate during reproductive age. TNBC is defined by the presence of epithelial-
to-mesenchymal-transition (EMT), which shows a significant role in cancer progression.
At the epigenetic level, TNBC is characterized by epigenetic signatures, such as
DNA methylation, histone remodeling, and a host of miRNA, MiR-193, LncRNA, HIF-
2α, eEF2K, LIN9/NEK2, IMP3, LISCH7/TGF-β1, GD3s, KLK12, mediated regulation.
These modifications either are silenced or activate the necessary genes that are prevalent
in TNBC. The review is based on epigenetic mediated mechanistic changes in TNBC.
Furthermore, Thymoquinone (TQ), Regorafenib, Fangjihuangqi decoction, Saikosaponin
A, and Huaier, etc., are potent antitumor natural compounds extensively reported in the
literature. Further, the review emphasizes the role of these natural compounds in TNBC
and their possible epigenetic targets, which can be utilized as a potential therapeutic strategy
in the treatment of TNBC.
Biodegradable Polymers-based Nanoparticles to Enhance the Antifungal Efficacy of Fluconazole against Candida albicans
Authors: Saleh Noha , Elshaer Soha , Girgis Germeen
Published: July 2021

Background:

Fluconazole (FLZ), a potent antifungal medication, is characterized by poor water solubility that reduced its antifungal efficacy.

Objective:

This study aimed to prepare FLZ-loaded polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) by using different polymers and techniques as a method of enhancing the antifungal activity of FLZ.

Methods:

NP1, NP2, and NP3 were prepared by the double emulsion/solvent evaporation method using PLGA, PCL, and PLA, respectively. The ionotropic pre-gelation technique was applied to prepare an alginate/chitosan-based formulation (NP4). Particle size, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency, and loading capacity were characterized. FT-IR spectra of FLZ, the polymers, and the prepared NPs were estimated. NP4 was selected for further in-vitro release evaluation. The broth dilution method was used to assess the antifungal activity of NP4 using a resistant clinical isolate of Candida albicans.

Results:

The double emulsion method produced smaller-sized particles (<390 nm) but with much lower encapsulation efficiency (<12%). Alternatively, the ionic gelation method resulted in nanosized particles with a markedly higher encapsulation efficiency of about 40%. The FT-IR spectroscopy confirmed the loading of the FLZ molecules in the polymeric network of the prepared NPs. The release profile of NP4 showed a burst initial release followed by a controlled pattern up to 24 hours with a higher percent released relative to the free FLZ suspension. NP4 was able to reduce the value of MIC of FLZ by 20 times.

Conclusion:

The antifungal activity of FLZ against C. albicans was enhanced markedly via its loading in the alginate/chitosan-based polymeric matrix of NP4.
Staphylococcus aureus: Biofilm Formation and Strategies Against it
Authors: Nasser Ahmad , Dallal Mohammad Mehdi Soltan , Jahanbakhshi Shiva , Azimi Taher , Nikouei Leila
Published: July 2021

Formation of Staphylococcus aureus biofilm causes significant infections in the human body. Biofilm forms through the aggregation of bacterial species and brings about many complications. It mediates drug resistance and persistence and facilitates the recurrence of infection at the end of antimicrobial therapy. Biofilm formation is completed in a series of steps, and any interference in these steps can disrupt its formation. Such interference may occur at any stage of biofilm production, including attachment, monolayer formation, and accumulation. Interfering agents can act as quorum sensing inhibitors and interfere in the functionality of quorum sensing receptors, attachment inhibitors, and affect cell hydrophobicity. Among these inhibiting strategies, attachment inhibitors could serve as the best agents against biofilm formation, because in case pathogens abort the attachment, the next stages of biofilm formation, e.g., accumulation and dispersion, will fail to materialize. Inhibition at this stage leads to suppression of virulence factors and invasion. One of the best knowing inhibitors is a chelator that collects metal, Fe+, Zn+, and magnesium critical for biofilm formation. These effective factors in the binding and formation of biofilm are investigated, and the coping strategy is discussed. This review examines the stages of biofilm formation and determines what factors interfere in the continuity of these steps. Finally, the inhibition strategies are investigated, reviewed, and discussed.
The Impacts of PLGA/PEG Triblock Copolymers with Variable Molecular Weights on the Sustained Release of Buprenorphine
Authors: Oroojalian Fatemeh , Hadizadeh Farzin , Kamali Hossein , Khodaverdi Elham , Mohammadpour Fatemeh , Kakavand Ali , Shiadeh Seyedeh Nesa Rezaeian
Published: July 2021

Objective:

Current in-situ injectable implants of buprenorphine (BP) such as Sublocade®
consist of N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP)-dissolved PLGA. To control the initial burst release of
Sublocade® during the first 24 hours after injection, we here used a BP in-situ forming composite
(ISFC) employing different molecular weights of PLGA-PEG-PLGA triblock.

Methods:

The triblock was synthesized by Ring-Opening Polymerization (ROP) using PEG
molecules with weights of 1500, 3000, and 4000 Da via the melting method. The specifications of
the triblocks were evaluated by 1H-NMR, FTIR, GPC, and DSC. The sol-gel, gel-precipitate temperatures,
in-vitro release, and composites’ morphology, degradation, and toxicity were assessed
for determining the features of ISFC 1500, ISFC 3000, and ISFC 4000 formulations. ROP was performed
successfully via the melting method. The yields of all polymerization reactions were
greater than 83.4%.

Results:

The PEG 1500 triblock showed both sol-gel and gel-precipitate temperatures, but PEG
3000 and 4000 only showed a sol-precipitate temperature. The values of initial burst release of BP
from ISFC 1500, ISFC 3000, and ISFC 4000 were 6.52 ± 0.22%, 12.39 ± 0.61%, and 15.80 ±
0.98%, respectively. BP release from the ISFCs wascompleted over three weeks for ISFC 1500 and
10 days for ISFC 3000 and ISFC 4000. The composites containing PEG 3000 and PEG 4000 were
more spongy and porous than PEG 1500. The ISFC 1500 delivered a higher cell viability (95.17 ±
1.15%) compared with ISFC 3000 (86.37 ± 2.25%) and ISFC 4000 (79.70 ± 3.77%).

Conclusion:

These results indicated that ISFC 1500 wasbiocompatible and delivered suitable early
initial burst reactions compared with ISFC 3000 and 4000 and might be a good candidate for preparing
sustained-release formulation of BP.
Adsorption of Cisplatin on Oxidized Graphene Nanoribbons for Improving the Uptake in Non-small Cell Lung Carcinoma Cell Line A549
Authors: Shende Pravin , Augustine Steffi , Prabhakar Bala
Published: July 2021

Background:

Graphene nanoribbons are nanosized strips of graphene with unique physicochemical properties like higher drug loading capacity and affinity for tumor cells.

Objective:

The principal objective of this research was to develop oxidized graphene nanoribbons (O-GNRs)-based delivery system for cisplatin against non-small cell lung carcinoma cell line A549 by selective endocytosis.

Method:

The O-GNRs prepared using various synthetic steps like oxidative unzipping were evaluated for various parameters like morphology, Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) study, % adsorption efficacy, Differential scanning colometric (DSC) study and in-vitro efficacy studies.

Results:

Graphene nanoribbons with the length of 200-250 nm and width of 20-40 nm were obtained. The FTIR spectrum of drug-loaded O-GNRs exhibited a characteristic peak at 1550 cm-1 (- N-H group) of cisplatin. The DSC indicated the presence of sharp endothermic peaks at 59 ºC (PEG), 254 ºC (-C-NH3) and 308.6 ºC (-C-Pt). The % adsorption efficiency was found to be 74.56 ± 0.798% with in-vitro release in controlled manner (63.36% ± 0.489%) for 24 h.

Conclusion:

The nanoformulation showed an average inhibition of 22.72% at a lower dose of cisplatin (> 25%) by passive targeting on cell line A549 by DNA alkylation. In the near future, graphene-based systems will establish potential nanosystems in cancer treatment due to the additive effect of graphene with various therapeutic agents.
Morphological Based Medical Image Processing on Cervical Cytology Cancer
Images Using Connected Component Techniques
Authors: Robert P. , Kavida A. Celine
Published: July 2021

Introduction:

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women. In 2018, it
was estimated 570000 women were diagnosed with cervical cancer worldwide and about 311000
women died from the disease. An efficient technique is essential for solving the complication in the
diagnosis of cervical cancer images.

Materials and Methods:

In this research, a new method is developed for cervical cancer image segmentation.
First, the RGB image is converted into an HSI color model. The thresholding is applied
to the saturation and intensity components to get binary images. These binary images are combined
to get a new mask. Using the connected component concept nucleus and cytoplasm are segmented
accurately.

Results:

For the performance evaluation, peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR), mean square error (MSE),
structural similarity index (SSIM), image quality index (IQI), structural content (SC), normalized
cross-correlation (NK), precision (PR), recall (RC), the Average Difference (AD) and image fidelity
(IF) are taken. The proposed techniques’ highest PSNR values are 44.2341, 46.7953,
60.5925, and 61.4862, respectively. The proposed segmentation technique can attain a high PSNR
(>40db) value at a threshold value equal to 0.1. Also proposed approach attains good precision, recall,
and SSIM values.

Conclusion:

The lowest MSE values using proposed segmentation techniques are 0.0454, 0.0351,
0.0924, and 0.0271 individually. The AD, NK, SC, NAE, and LMSE values for the implemented
approach are low, showing the segmented image’s quality is very good. Thus, the proposed model
performed better compared to other methods.
Multiple Rebound-Associated Vertebral Fractures after Denosumab Discontinuation:
Is Prompt Antiresorptive Therapy Always Recommended, Even When the Risk of Fracture Seems Low? A Case Report
Authors: Osella Giangiacomo , Puglisi Soraya , Alì Anna , Reimondo Giuseppe , Terzolo Massimo
Published: July 2021

Background:

Non-osteoporotic patients with endocrine-sensitive breast cancer are often
treated with denosumab only during the anti-aromatase treatment, and when the anti-aromatase
therapy is discontinued, no antiresorptive drug is prescribed. This case report clearly shows how
even a patient with a low risk of fractures could have multiple rebound vertebral fractures after
denosumab discontinuation.

Case Presentation:

We report the case of a 60-year-old woman who suffered from multiple vertebral
fractures only seven months after discontinuation of denosumab that had been administered to
prevent bone loss related to three years of aromatase inhibitors as adjuvant therapy for breast cancer.
No antiresorptive therapy was prescribed at the time of denosumab discontinuation, assuming
that the patient had a low absolute risk of fracture after the withdrawal of the aromatase inhibitor.

Conclusion:

This case underlines the relative irrelevance of bone mineral density and clinical algorithms
in predicting the risk of rebound-associated vertebral fractures after denosumab discontinuation
and the strong recommendation to always switch to another antiresorptive therapy (such as
zoledronic acid) immediately at the time of denosumab discontinuation.
Pulsed Radiofrequency Dorsal Root Ganglion-Fluoroscopy Guide for Lumbar Radicular Pain
Authors:   Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Therapy, Cilacap General Hospital, Cilacap, Indonesia Indonesia, Wicaksono Nugroho
Published: July 2021

Background: Lumbosacral radicular pain is the most common neuropathic pain. Pulsed Radio Frequency (PRF) is a method that believes to be safe and effective for reducing pain. Case: A 43-year-old woman experiences chronic right lumbar radiculopathy due to Herniated nucleus pulposus (HNP) L4-5. Anamnesis and physical examination show a sign of neuropathic pain. The MRI examination shows a paracentral disc protrusion L4-5 that compresses the transversing nerve L5. The conservative management did not produce a satisfying result indicated by the patient still experience pain with the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) 4-5. Patient unable to do activity properly. We perform pain management using the dorsal root ganglion L5 pulsed radiofrequency-fluoroscopy (PRF) and producing a positive outcome. Patients experience a decrease in pain intensity with NRS 1. The examination on one and two months post-intervention show an improvement. Patient able to do the daily activity with NRS 1-2. Conclusion: Pulsed radiofrequency dorsal root ganglion-fluoroscopy guide that relatively safe, minimum complications, and minimal side effects, making it the preferred treatment for chronic lumbar radicular pain.
Management of Geriatric Anesthesia on Emergency Surgery
Authors:   Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Brawijaya University Indonesia, Hariyanto Achmad , Isngadi Isngadi ,   Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Brawijaya University Indonesia
Published: July 2021

In geriatric patients, emergency surgery is more common than elective surgery. The incidence of medical complications increases along with aging while the rate of surgical complications remains constant. Postoperative complications escalates short-term morbidity and mortality and also associated with decreasing long-term survival. The main purposes of geriatric patients' care were to maintain hemodynamics, speed up recovery, and perform an assessment to avoid any further decline in functional capacity. The choice of anesthesia and how to administer anesthesia agents should be adjusted for the geriatric patient.
Management Anesthesia of Esophagostomy in a Patient with a Double Outlet Right Ventricle
Authors:   Anesthesiology and Intensive Therapy Department, Medical Faculty, Brawijaya University / Dr. Saiful Anwar General Hospital, Malang, Indonesia Indonesia, Bhirowo Bimo Kusumo , Vitraludyono Rudy ,   Anesthesiology and Intensive Therapy Department, Medical Faculty, Brawijaya University / Dr. Saiful Anwar General Hospital, Malang, Indonesia
Published: July 2021

Background: Esophageal atresia is a congenital disorder in which there is no esophagus because the proximal and distal esophagus is not connected. Babies with esophageal atresia can show several symptoms: foamy mouth, cyanosis, coughing and tightness, flatulence, oliguria, or worse, pneumonia symptoms. Accompanying anomalies occur in greater than 50% of neonates with esophageal atresia. Esophageal atresia is identified by ultrasound at 18 weeks of gestation, ultrasound, and Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the fetal neck, or examination of a nasogastric tube in the neck of a newborn. The management of esophageal atresia is challenging. The main choice remains the surgical procedure, which usually involves making a stoma on the proximal esophagus and gastrostomy. However, surgery has risky complications. Case: In this case, it was reported that a 22-day-old baby with tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) type C with Ventricular Septum Defect and Atrial Septum Defect and Double Outlet Right Ventricle (DORV) underwent esophagostomy surgery with general anesthesia. Conclusion: Anesthesia management with general anesthesia, intubation using intravenous ketamine 3 mg, fentanyl 3µg, atracurium 1.5 mg gives stability for esophagostomy in a patient with a double outlet right ventricle.
Kinematics of the knee joint
Authors: Sampers W. , Sierens T.
Published: July 2021

In 2006 a test rig was built by Ghent University to measure patellofemoral pressures. The maingoal of the current study is to improve and upgrade the Ghent Knee Rig (GKR). The improvement consistsof a better approach of the Q angle. The mechanical connection between the linear actuator and the rectusfemoris tendon represents the force of the quadriceps. To validate the results of measurement, it isnecessary the connection approaches the direction of the real muscle. The patella is bond with the body byuse of ligaments and retinacula, which have a unknown influence on the stability of the patella. Alsoquadriceps and the trochlea are important stabilizers. The upgrade of the GKR is a tool to measure thepatella stability, which is done by pulling the patella out of the trochlea and measure the force needed for acertain displacement. It is important the patella has five degrees of freedom (DOF) so no extra force but thestability is measured and the effect of dysplasia and trochleoplasty can be examined. In the near future theGKR will be expanded to the possibility of measuring patella tracking. The relative movements of thedifferent components of the knee will be followed by high speed cameras.
Validation of a finite element model for fracture mechanics specimens
Authors: Cauwelier M. , Maelfait J. , Verstraete M. , Hertelé S. , Van Minnebruggen K. , De Waele W.
Published: July 2021

Single parameter formulations have shown to be insufficient to describe constraint effects infracture mechanics specimens. This has lead researchers to a two parameter approach like the J-Q theory.In order to investigate constraint effects, the authors have developed a generic finite element model. Priorto drawing conclusions this model must first be validated, which is the topic of this paper. This validationhas been done by comparing analytical expressions of the J-integral with those obtained from theperformed simulations. The compared geometries were center cracked tension (CCT) and double edgenotched tension (DENT) fracture mechanics specimens. The results showed good agreement with theanalytical expressions and, as such, the model can now be confidently applied to determine values of the Jintegral. This is a first step towards evaluating two parameter J-Q constraint.
Strain based design considerations for spiral welded pipelines
Authors: Van Minnebruggen Koen , De Waele Wim , Denys Rudi , Thibaux Philippe
Published: July 2021

Pipelines are constructed in hostile environments where the occurrence of imposed plasticdeformations can necessitate a strain based design approach. Under such conditions not only the strengthand toughness properties have to be considered; also the strain capacity of pipe and weld metal becomecrucial. Considering the use of spirally welded linepipe sections, the helical seam weld and anisotropicmaterial properties pose real challenges to pipeline designers. In our work, the tensile strain capacity anddefect tolerance of high strength, high toughness spiral pipes will be investigated. This paper brieflydiscusses the different steps in the spiral pipe manufacturing process and their influence on the mechanicalproperties of the pipe. The forming angle is a key parameter as it determines (a) the anisotropy in strengthand toughness of the pipe steel, and (b) the orientation of possible seam weld defects. Each mechanicaloperation (forming, expansion) and each thermal operation (welding, coating) will affect local or globalstrength, toughness and ductility properties of the pipe metal. A thorough material characterization at eachprocess step is needed for a qualitative and quantitative understanding of these effects.
Crack growth around stress concentrations in pipes and tubes
Authors: Loncke Koen , De Waele Wim , Van Wittenberghe Jeroen , Galle Timothy , De Baets Patrick
Published: July 2021

Fatigue crack growth behaviour in pipes fundamentally differs from fatigue growth in shafts andflat plates. The aim of this paper is to give a better understanding of this phenomenon. In a first part of thepaper, the general principles of the fracture mechanics are concisely described. The energy approach aswell as the stress intensity factor (SIF) approach are explained. An analytical method, a numeric method aswell as an experimental method to determine the SIF are discussed. Special attention is given to theexperimental method. A theoretical model predicting the deflection of a pipe tested in a resonant bendingtest setup is evaluated and compared to experimental measured deflections. Several methods to measurethe crack growth in a pipe during and after a fatigue bending test are discussed. In addition, an overview isgiven of results obtained by other authors in the field of fatigue crack growth behaviour of pipes.
Design of a four-point bend test for ultra-low cycle fatigue of pipelines under inelastic bending
Authors: Muylaert Toon , De Waele Wim
Published: July 2021

This master thesis is situated in the research domain dealing with the ductile failure of pipelinesunder extreme loading conditions. It is part of an umbrella research aiming to develop innovativeexperimental and computational methodologies to simulate fracture of steel structural elements under ultralow cycle fatigue. The focus of this study is on steel pipeline applications. The objective of this thesis is todesign a large-scale four-point bend test setup to cyclically bend pipes. The feasibility of instrumentationwill be evaluated using small scale test specimens. In this paper some ideas, constraints and opportunitiesfor the design are considered, based on a literature review of several test setups for other applications. Thedesign parameters have been calculated to compose the design windows and an initial overview of thepossible instrumentation is given.
Experimental analysis of the fatigue life of threaded pipe connections under cyclic bending
Authors: Van Wittenberghe Jeroen , Galle Timothe , De Waele Wim , De Baets Patrick
Published: July 2021

When subjected to cyclic loads, fatigue cracks can cause failure of pipe systems joined bythreaded pipe connections. In this study, the effect of contact conditions and coupling geometry isinvestigated experimentally. Fatigue tests under cyclic bending are carried out on three different threadedconnection configurations. The resulting fatigue lives are compared and fracture surfaces are investigated.The fatigue cracks are found to initiate at the last engaged thread of the pin and fatigue life can beincreased by applying PTFE tape or changing the coupling geometry.
Instability due to internal damping of rotating shafts
Authors: Lemahieu W. , Loccufier M. , Vervisch B. , De Baets P.
Published: July 2021

Rotor internal damping has been indicated as one of the main causes of instability in rotatingmachinery for more than a century. However, the exact characterisation of this damping is still an unsolvedresearch topic. Therefore, in this thesis the consequences of material damping in rotating shafts areexamined more in depth. Two main steps are considered. Firstly, a finite element model of the beam,including viscous and hysteretic damping, is constructed. This model allows to calculate the thresholdspeed of instability and the resonance frequencies of a shaft. Furthermore it allows to vary the dampingparameters and to compare the considered models giving an indication of the general relations betweeninstability and damping properties. Secondly, an experimental approach should elucidate which model fitsbest for the physical damping. In general, the main purpose is to gain new insights into how the dampingshould really be modelled to have the most accurate and safe prediction of a designed rotor.