bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Early Peripheral Parenteral Nutrition Support in an Enhanced Recovery Program for Colorectal Cancer Surgery: A Randomized Open Trial
Authors: Sánchez-Guillén Luis , Soriano-Irigaray Leticia , López-Rodríguez-Arias Francisco , Barber Xavier , Murcia Ana , Alcaide M José , Aranaz-Ostáriz Verónica , Soler-Silva Álvaro , Navarro-Ruiz Andrés , Arroyo Antonio
Published: August 2021

Background: Peripheral parenteral nutrition allows repletion of acute nutrient deficiencies and could prevent further nutrition deficits before and after colorectal surgery. A randomized open study was performed to evaluate the effect of perioperative peripheral parenteral nutrition (PPN) support on postoperative morbidity after colorectal cancer surgery within an enhanced recovery program. Methods: Patients were randomized into two groups: peripheral parenteral nutrition (PPN) (with Peri-Olimel N4-E) versus conventional fluid therapy (FT). Ninety-day postoperative complications, laboratory parameters, length of hospital stay, and compliance with the ERAS protocol were assessed. Results: A total of 158 patients were analysed. The overall 90-day complication rate was 38.6% (61 patients), and 24 patients had major complications (Clavien–Dindo III–V) (15.2%). In the multivariate analysis, the intervention (PPN vs. FC) showed a protective effect against postoperative complications (p = 0.0031, OR = 0.2 (CI: 0.08–0.87)). Following ordinal regression, PPN and early oral tolerance showed a protective effect, being less likely to develop complications or to move from minor to major complications. In patients with low compliance to ERAS during the first postoperative day, PPN showed a protective effect, preventing 28% of morbidity. Conclusions: Perioperative peripheral parenteral nutrition (PPN) support with Peri-Olimel N4-E in colorectal cancer surgery associated with early oral intake could reduce postoperative complications.
Analysis of Factors Associated with the Postoperative Healing of Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw in Patients with Osteoporosis
Authors: Shim Young-Ho , Jung Sang-Hwan , Boboeva Obida , Lee Sung-Tak , Kim Jin-Wook , Kwon Tae-Geon , Choi So-Young
Published: August 2021

Background: Surgical treatment is considered the best approach by many researchers for medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaws (MRONJ). While postoperative outcomes are mainly favorable, wound healing still fails in some cases. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the factors affecting the postoperative healing of MRONJ. Methods: This study involved 400 osteoporosis patients who received surgical treatment from January 2009 to January 2018 in Kyungpook National University Hospital. The patient, drug, and clinical factors were collected as investigation variables. The obtained data were statistically analyzed to identify relationships between the factors and healing aspect. Results: Univariate logistic regression analysis showed that the route of drug administration, bone exposure, types of surgical management, and wound management had a significant influence (p < 0.05) on the healing outcome. Sequestrectomy with primary closure had a more positive effect on favorable healing. In the multivariate logistic regression test, the effect of wound management alone was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Conclusion: In patients with osteoporosis, the factors such as intravenously administered drugs, fistulas that were probed to the bone, and surgical management with curettage were associated with a lower rate of postoperative complete healing of MRONJ, whereas primary closure of wounds led, possibly, to good healing outcomes. The strengths of the study include its relatively large sample size and that its results can hopefully aid in the clinical decisions for practitioners and future research studies for researchers.
Usefulness of Easy-to-Use Risk Scoring Systems Rated in the Emergency Department to Predict Major Adverse Outcomes in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients
Authors: González-Flores Julieta , García-Ávila Carlos , Springall Rashidi , Brianza-Padilla Malinalli , Juárez-Vicuña Yaneli , Márquez-Velasco Ricardo , Sánchez-Muñoz Fausto , Ballinas-Verdugo Martha A. , Basilio-Gálvez Edna , Castillo-Salazar Mauricio , Cásarez-Alvarado Sergio , Hernández-Diazcouder Adrián , Sánchez-Gloria José L. , Sandoval Julio , González-Pacheco Héctor , Tavera-Alonso Claudia , Rojas-Velasco Gustavo , Baranda-Tovar Francisco , Amezcua-Guerra Luis M.
Published: August 2021

Background: Several easy-to-use risk scoring systems have been built to identify patients at risk of developing complications associated with COVID-19. However, information about the ability of each score to early predict major adverse outcomes during hospitalization of severe COVID-19 patients is still scarce. Methods: Eight risk scoring systems were rated upon arrival at the Emergency Department, and the occurrence of thrombosis, need for mechanical ventilation, death, and a composite that included all major adverse outcomes were assessed during the hospital stay. The clinical performance of each risk scoring system was evaluated to predict each major outcome. Finally, the diagnostic characteristics of the risk scoring system that showed the best performance for each major outcome were obtained. Results: One hundred and fifty-seven adult patients (55 ± 12 years, 66% men) were assessed at admission to the Emergency Department and included in the study. A total of 96 patients (61%) had at least one major outcome during hospitalization; 32 had thrombosis (20%), 80 required mechanical ventilation (50%), and 52 eventually died (33%). Of all the scores, Obesity and Diabetes (based on a history of comorbid conditions) showed the best performance for predicting mechanical ventilation (area under the ROC curve (AUC), 0.96; positive likelihood ratio (LR+), 23.7), death (AUC, 0.86; LR+, 4.6), and the composite outcome (AUC, 0.89; LR+, 15.6). Meanwhile, the inflammation-based risk scoring system (including leukocyte count, albumin, and C-reactive protein levels) was the best at predicting thrombosis (AUC, 0.63; LR+, 2.0). Conclusions: Both the Obesity and Diabetes score and the inflammation-based risk scoring system appeared to be efficient enough to be integrated into the evaluation of COVID-19 patients upon arrival at the Emergency Department.
Melanoma Inhibitory Activity and Melanoma Inhibitory Activity 2 as Novel Immunohistochemical Markers of Oral Epithelial Dysplasia
Authors: Kawai Ryoko , Sugita Yoshihiko , Suzumura Toshikatsu , Hattori Takehiro , Yoshida Waka , Kubo Katsutoshi , Maeda Hatsuhiko
Published: August 2021

Oral potentially malignant disorders are associated with the development of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Most OSCCs are diagnosed via histopathology as oral epithelial dysplasia (OED), but the histologic diagnostic criteria remain non-uniform. Accordingly, the establishment of a diagnostic marker to assist in diagnosis could contribute towards cancer prevention. Melanoma inhibitory activity (MIA) and MIA2 are involved in tumor growth, invasion, and lymph node metastasis in various malignancies. The purpose of this study was to clarify the usefulness of MIA and MIA2 as diagnostic markers of oral mucosal lesions. The expression of MIA and MIA2 was analyzed immunohistochemically in 100 specimens (10 specimens with normal oral mucosa (NOM) and 30 specimens each with low-grade epithelial dysplasia (LED), high-grade epithelial dysplasia (HED), and OSCC). Immunohistochemical results were evaluated based on the Allred scoring system. Cytoplasmic expression of MIA and MIA2 increased in the order of LED, HED, and OSCC. All NOM specimens were negative for cytoplasmic expression. Significant differences were observed between the groups (NOM vs. HED, p < 0.05, NOM vs. OSCC, p < 0.001). These results demonstrate that MIA and MIA2 are expressed in the oral mucosa within early neoplastic lesions and suggest that MIA and MIA2 are useful novel immunohistochemical markers for discriminating between normal tissue and OED.
Postoperative Analgesia after Open Liver Surgery: Systematic Review of Clinical Evidence
Authors: Dudek Paula , Zawadka Mateusz , Andruszkiewicz Paweł , Gelo Remigiusz , Pugliese Francesco , Bilotta Federico
Published: August 2021

Background: The existing recommendations for after open liver surgery, published in 2019, contains limited evidence on the use of regional analgesia techniques. The aim of this systematic review is to summarize available clinical evidence, published after September 2013, on systemic or blended postoperative analgesia for the prevention or treatment of postoperative pain after open liver surgery. Methods: The PUBMED and EMBASE registries were used for the literature search to identify suitable studies. Keywords for the literature search were selected, with the authors’ agreement, using the PICOS approach: participants, interventions, comparisons, outcomes, and study design. Results: The literature search led to the retrieval of a total of 800 studies. A total of 36 studies including 25 RCTs, 5 prospective observational, and 7 retrospective observational studies were selected as suitable for this systematic review. Conclusions: The current evidence suggests that, in these patients, optimal postoperative pain management should rely on using a “blended approach” which includes the use of systemic opioids and the infusion of NSAIDs along with regional techniques. This approach warrants the highest efficacy in terms of pain prevention, including the lower incretion of postoperative “stress hormones”, and fewer side effects. Furthermore, concerns about the potential for the increased risk of wound infection related to the use of regional techniques have been ruled out.
Simplified Approach for Parameter Selection and Analysis of Carbon and Glass Fiber Reinforced Composite Beams
Authors: Moazed Reza , Khozeimeh Mohammad Amir , Fotouhi Reza
Published: August 2021

In this study, a simplified approach that can be used for the selection of the design parameters of carbon and glass fiber reinforced composite beams is presented. Important design parameters including fiber angle orientation, laminate thickness, materials of construction, cross-sectional shape, and mass are considered. To allow for the integrated selection of these parameters, structural indices and efficiency metrics are developed and plotted in design charts. As the design parameters depend on mode of loading, normalized structural metrics are defined for axial, bending, torsional, and combined bending-torsional loading conditions. The design charts provide designers with an accurate and efficient approach for the determination of stiffness parameters and mass of laminated composite beams. Using the design charts, designers can readily determine optimum fiber direction, number of layers in a laminate, cross-sectional shape, and materials that will provide the desired mass and stiffness. The laminated composite beams were also analyzed through a detailed finite element analysis study. Three-dimensional solid elements were used for the finite element modelling of the beams. To confirm design accuracy, numerical results were compared with close-form solutions and results obtained from the design charts. To show the effectiveness of the design charts, the simplified method was utilized for increasing the bending and torsional stiffness of a laminated composite robotic arm. The results show that the proposed approach can be used to accurately and efficiently analyze composite beams that fall within the boundaries of the design charts.
A Dynamic Reconfigurable Architecture for Hybrid Spiking and Convolutional FPGA-Based Neural Network Designs
Authors: Irmak Hasan , Corradi Federico , Detterer Paul , Alachiotis Nikolaos , Ziener Daniel
Published: August 2021

This work presents a dynamically reconfigurable architecture for Neural Network (NN) accelerators implemented in Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) that can be applied in a variety of application scenarios. Although the concept of Dynamic Partial Reconfiguration (DPR) is increasingly used in NN accelerators, the throughput is usually lower than pure static designs. This work presents a dynamically reconfigurable energy-efficient accelerator architecture that does not sacrifice throughput performance. The proposed accelerator comprises reconfigurable processing engines and dynamically utilizes the device resources according to model parameters. Using the proposed architecture with DPR, different NN types and architectures can be realized on the same FPGA. Moreover, the proposed architecture maximizes throughput performance with design optimizations while considering the available resources on the hardware platform. We evaluate our design with different NN architectures for two different tasks. The first task is the image classification of two distinct datasets, and this requires switching between Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) architectures having different layer structures. The second task requires switching between NN architectures, namely a CNN architecture with high accuracy and throughput and a hybrid architecture that combines convolutional layers and an optimized Spiking Neural Network (SNN) architecture. We demonstrate throughput results from quickly reprogramming only a tiny part of the FPGA hardware using DPR. Experimental results show that the implemented designs achieve a 7× faster frame rate than current FPGA accelerators while being extremely flexible and using comparable resources.
Real-Time Nonlinear Model Predictive Controller for Multiple Degrees of Freedom Wave Energy Converters with Non-Ideal Power Take-Off
Authors: Haider Ali S. , Brekken Ted K. A. , McCall Alan
Published: August 2021

An increase in wave energy converter (WEC) efficiency requires not only consideration of the nonlinear effects in the WEC dynamics and the power take-off (PTO) mechanisms, but also more integrated treatment of the whole system, i.e., the buoy dynamics, the PTO system, and the control strategy. It results in an optimization formulation that has a nonquadratic and nonstandard cost functional. This article presents the application of real-time nonlinear model predictive controller (NMPC) to two degrees of freedom point absorber type WEC with highly nonlinear PTO characteristics. The nonlinear effects, such as the fluid viscous drag, are also included in the plant dynamics. The controller is implemented on a real-time target machine, and the WEC device is emulated in real-time using the WECSIM toolbox. The results for the successful performance of the design are presented for irregular waves under linear and nonlinear hydrodynamic conditions.
Analysis of the Makran Coastline of Iran’s Vulnerability to Global Sea-Level Rise
Authors: Ghanavati Ezatollah , Shah-Hosseini Majid , Marriner Nick
Published: August 2021

The SE coast of Iran is of great economic and environmental importance. Global climate change affects this coastline through sea level rise (SLR), compounded by a decrease in sediment budgets in coastal areas. This study developed a Coastal Vulnerability Index (CVI) for the SE coast of Iran using satellite, instrumental and field data. Eight risk variables were defined: coastal slope, regional coastal elevation, mean tidal range, mean significant wave height, rate of relative sea-level change, rate of shoreline change, environmental sensitivity and socio-economic sensitivity. The coast was divided into 27 segments based on geomorphic, environmental and socioeconomic traits. Coastal segments were categorized based on their vulnerability to each risk factor using a CVI. The resulting maps highlighted the vulnerability of each coastal segment to SLR. Approximately 50% of the coast is comprised of mostly rocky shores, which are less vulnerable to SLR. Approximately 33% of the coastal length, including sandy beaches, tidal flats and mangrove forests, were determined to be highly vulnerable to SLR. Approximately 12% of the coastline was determined to be moderately vulnerable. Population centers and infrastructure were ranked as highly-to-moderately vulnerable to SLR. This study highlighted the high vulnerability of low-lying areas, such as lagoons and mangroves, in the western part of the Iranian coast of Makran. Proper coastal management and mitigation plans are essential in the future to protect coastal societies and environments.
Biodiversity of Lignicolous Freshwater Hyphomycetes from China and Thailand and Description of Sixteen Species
Authors: Bao Dan-Feng , Hyde Kevin D. , McKenzie Eric H. C. , Jeewon Rajesh , Su Hong-Yan , Nalumpang Sarunya , Luo Zong-Long
Published: August 2021

Freshwater hyphomycetes are a highly diverse group of fungi with a worldwide distribution and have been mostly reported from tropical and subtropical regions. During investigations of freshwater fungi from the Greater Mekong subregion in China and Thailand, sixteen freshwater hyphomycetes (three of them belong to the class Dothideomycetes while thirteen belong to the class Sordariomycetes) were collected. Based on morphology and multi-gene phylogenetic analyses, Neospadicoides thailandica, Pseudodactylaria aquatica, Sporidesmium nujiangense, Tetraploa thailandica, Vamsapriyaaquatica and Wongia fusiformis are described as new species; Aquapteridospora bambusinum is proposed as a new combination; Acrodictys liputii, Chloridium gonytrichii, Pseudoberkleasmium chiangmaiense, Pleomonodictys capensis, Sporidesmium aturbinatum and Vamsapriya indica are reported as new country records; and Sporidesmium tropicale, Sporoschisma chiangraiense and Sporoschisma longicatenatum are introduced as three new collections. In addition, a checklist of freshwater fungi from China over the last five years is also provided.
Efficacy of Laser Doppler Flowmetry, as a Diagnostic Tool in Assessing Pulp Vitality of Traumatised Teeth: A Split Mouth Clinical Study
Authors: Belcheva Ani , Shindova Maria , Hanna Reem
Published: August 2021

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) in determining the changes in the pulpal blood flow (PBF) during post-traumatic period of the traumatised permanent teeth. Methods: 88 teeth of 44 patients (mean age 10.30 ± 2.38) were recruited according to the eligibility criteria and divided into two groups: test group (44 traumatised teeth) and control group (44 sound and healthy teeth). The measurement of PBF was performed, using a LDF monitor. Results: The analysis of the LDF outcomes in function of diagnosis indicated that the measurements of the traumatised teeth were significantly higher than those of non-traumatised teeth (p ˂ 0.05). Conclusions: LDF application provides dentists with fundamental benefits in terms of an early and precise investigation of PBF. In addition, LDF is a useful monitoring tool for revascularization of traumatised teeth and reliable objective diagnostic indicator of pulp vitality. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov (Registration number: NCT04967456).
Capital Structure, Working Capital, and Governance Quality Affect the Financial Performance of Small and Medium Enterprises in Taiwan
Authors: Vu Thi Anh-Huyen , Phung The-Dong
Published: August 2021

This study examines the impact of capital structure, working capital, and governance quality on the financial performance of small- and medium-sized enterprises in Taiwan using a sample of more than 2000 firms from the Taiwan Economic Journal (TEJ) during the 24-year period of 1995–2018. Panel data are used to create statistics for the regression model. The result shows that a firm’s capital structure, represented by the debt ratio, has a significantly negative impact on the firm’s financial measures (return on assets (ROA) and return on equity (ROE)), where the working capital, represented by the cash conversion cycle (CCC), has a negative impact and governance quality, represented by the board size, cash dividend distribution, and the percentage of directors, has different impacts.
Investigation of Tribological Behavior of Lubricating Greases Composed of Different Bio-Based Polymer Thickeners
Authors: Vafaei Seyedmohammad , Fischer Dennis , Jopen Max , Jacobs Georg , König Florian , Weberskirch Ralf
Published: August 2021

One commonly used lubricant in rolling bearings is grease, which consists of base oil, thickener and small amounts of additives. Commercial greases are mostly produced from petrochemical base oil and thickener. Recently, the development of base oils from renewable resources have been significantly focused on in the lubricant industry. However, to produce an entirely bio-based grease, the thickener must also be produced from renewable materials. Therefore, this work presents the design and evaluation of three different bio-based polymer thickener systems. Tribological tests are performed to characterize lubrication properties of developed bio-based greases. The effect of thickener type on film thickness and friction behavior of the produced bio-based greases is evaluated on a ball-on-disc tribometer. Moreover, the results are compared to a commercial petrochemical grease chosen as benchmark.
Analysis of Compressive Fatigue Failure of Recycled Aggregate Concrete
Authors: You Fan , Luo Surong , Zheng Jianlan , Lin Kaibin
Published: August 2021

Using recycled aggregate in concrete is effective in recycling construction and demolition waste. It is of critical significance to understand the fatigue properties of recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) to implement it safely in structures subjected to repeated or fatigue load. In this study, a series of fatigue tests was performed to investigate the compressive fatigue behavior of RAC. The performance of interfacial transition zones (ITZs) was analyzed by nanoindentation. Moreover, the influence of ITZs on the fatigue life of RAC was discussed. The results showed that the fatigue life of RAC obeyed the Weibull distribution, and the S-N-p equation could be obtained based on the fitting of Weibull parameters. In the high cycle fatigue zone (N≥104), the fatigue life of RAC was lower than that of natural aggregate concrete (NAC) under the same stress level. The fatigue deformation of RAC presented a three-stage deformation regularity, and the maximum deformation at the point of fatigue failure closely matched the monotonic stress-strain envelope. The multiple ITZs matched the weak areas of RAC, and the negative effect of ITZs on the fatigue life of RAC in the high cycle fatigue zone was found to be greater than that of NAC.
Influence of Biodegradable Release Oils on the Physical and Mechanical Properties of Light-Colored Architectural Concrete
Authors: Barnat-Hunek Danuta , Szafraniec Małgorzata
Published: August 2021

In the article, unique formulations of biodegradable, non-toxic, edible oil-based release oils were developed and tested on architectural concrete. The produced agents have physicochemical properties similar to diesel fuel, but at the same time, are renewable and biodegradable products. An ultrasound was used to properly combine the liquid phase of edible oil and the liquid phase of glyceryl trioleate and/or water. Based on the PN-B-19305 standard, seven-component configurations were designed and then tested. The wettability of the concrete was determined by contact angle (CA) analysis. After the application of the formulations produced, the architectural concrete still had good wettability. The vapor permeability test showed that the tested release agents did not inhibit water vapor diffusion from the tested samples. The O65G35 (65% unique edible oil formula and 35% glyceryl trioleate) concrete had the best absorption. In this case, the CA was 56° after oil application and 46° before. The new agents did not impair the adhesion of the plaster to concrete. The O90W10 concrete showed the best adhesion of plasters made with it—51.9 kN/m2. The study also showed that the concrete surface had excellent paint absorption despite the use of release agents. The architectural concrete was evenly covered with paint without any problem. There were no difficulties in applying it, e.g., greasy places preventing the concrete from being coated with emulsion. The suitability of the produced release oils for lightweight architectural concrete structures intended for facades was confirmed. The best results were obtained after using formulations O65T35 and O90W10.
A Retrospective Study on the Transferring Accuracy of a Fully Guided Digital Template in the Anterior Zone
Authors: Huang Lirong , Zhang Xiaoqing , Mo Anchun
Published: August 2021

The accuracy of implant placement with a fully guided digital template can be influenced by many factors, such as arch difference, alveolar bone density, timing of implant placement and open flap. The purpose of this article was to evaluate the factors presumptively affecting the accuracy of implant placement assisted by the fully guided template in the anterior zone. In 40 patients with missing anterior teeth, a total of 52 implants were placed with tooth-borne, fully guided templates after CBCT evaluation, in West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University. After overlapping the pre-and post-operative DICOM data, measurements were taken in the dental implant planning software (Nobel Clinician®) to calculate linear and angular deviations between virtual placement plan and actual implant placement. Grouping was categorized according to three factors that possibly have an influence on accuracy: arch type (maxilla/mandible), timing of implant placement (immediate/delayed), surgical technique (open flap/flapless). The data was analyzed with independent sample t-test (p < 0.05). The results showed that the apical, coronal, depth and angular mean deviations of implant positions in anterior zone were 1.13 ± 0.39 mm, 0.86 ± 0.33 mm, 0.41 ± 0.66 mm, 3.32 ± 1.65° with the fully guided templates. The accuracy at apex level, coronal level and the angulation were similar between the maxilla and mandible, and the magnitude of all four deviations between immediate and delayed implantation, open flap and flapless technique were small. No statistically significant difference was observed (p > 0.05). Whereas there was significant difference in depth deviation between maxilla and mandible (p < 0.05). Conclusively, the implant site, alveolar bone density, timing of implant placement and surgical techniques merely compromise the implant placement accuracy under the assistance of a fully guided template.
The Effect of Fine-Ground Glass on the Hydration Process and Properties of Alumina-Cement-Based Composites
Authors: Kotsay Galyna , Masztakowska Irmina
Published: August 2021

This paper discusses studies regarding the impact of fine-ground glass additives on the hydration and properties of alumina cement pastes and mortars. Fine-ground glass was added to pastes and mortars instead of high-alumina cement and calcium aluminate cement in quantities of 5% and 10%. The findings are inconclusive as to the impact of glass on the properties of tested alumina cement types. The effect produced via the addition of glass instead of cement depends on the type of alumina cement used. Adding fine-ground glass to high-alumina cement enhances the paste’s density while improving paste and mortar strength. Using the same additive for calcium aluminate cement reduces its density and strength. The addition of glass to high-alumina cement adversely affects its strength at higher temperatures.
Active Tactile Sensibility of Brånemark Protocol Prostheses: A Case–Control Clinical Study
Authors: Moraes Nathalia , Moraes Eduardo , Anastacio Tiago , Silva Licínio , Machado Aldir , Schoichet José , Alto Raphael Monte , Mello-Machado Rafael , Cardarelli Angelo , Mourão Carlos Fernando de Almeida Barros , Casado Priscila , Romanos Georgios
Published: August 2021

Few studies have assessed active tactile sensibility in patients rehabilitated with implants. Improved knowledge about functional tactile sensibility will contribute to several clinical applications, such as protocols for immediate loading, prosthesis design, occlusal improvement in implantology, and physiological integration of implant-supported prostheses. The present study evaluated active tactile sensibility in patients rehabilitated with Brånemark-type mandibular prostheses that impede the total mucosa-supported maxillary prosthesis. Thirty-five subjects participated in this study. The experimental group (n = 18) inclusion criteria were as follows: Brånemark-type prosthesis and a total mucosa-supported maxillary prosthesis. The control group (n = 17) was composed of participants with complete healthy dentition. Carbon foils with different thicknesses (12 μm, 24 μm, 40 μm, 80 μm, and 200 μm) were placed in the premolar region to evaluate the brink of active oral tactile sensibility. The researchers assessed the participants 120 times. After evaluation, we observed a statistical difference (p < 0.05) between the groups. Additionally, the degree of sensibility was found for all thicknesses, except for 12 μm, on both sides. There was a more significant increase in perception in the control group as the carbon thickness increased. The tactile sensibility threshold was 2.5 times greater for participants with prostheses. Thus, the tactile sensibility for mandibular implant-supported and maxillary mucosa-supported prostheses is significantly lower than that of dentate patients, which was detected above the thickness of 80 μm; in patients with natural dentition, different thicknesses were seen starting from 24 μm.
Energy Absorption Mechanism and Its Influencing Factors for Circular Concrete-Filled Steel Tubular Members Subjected to Lateral Impact
Authors: Wang Luming , Liu Yanhui , Yang Lang , Xu Nan , Zhao Shichun
Published: August 2021

The energy absorption characteristic of steel tube material and concrete material is an important indicator to reflect the impact resistance of circular concrete-filled steel tubular (CFST) members. In order to efficiently simulate the material energy absorption of the steel tube and concrete under lateral impact, a nonlinear finite element model considering the material strain rate of the circular CFST member was established and validated based on the drop weight tests. Then, the energy absorption mechanism of circular CFST members subjected to lateral impact was investigated including the revelation of the energy absorption process and the determination of the energy absorption distribution for the steel tube material and concrete material, which are obtained respectively based on the comprehensive analysis of dynamic response and innovative establishment of the segmented numerical model. In addition, the influence of impact momentum on energy absorption process and the effect of impact location on energy absorption distribution are further carried out. The observations of this investigation can provide reference for the anti-impact design and damage reinforcement of circular CFST members subjected to lateral impact.
Levels of Sophistication in Elementary Students’ Understanding of Polygon Concept and Polygons Classes
Authors: Bernabeu Melania , Llinares Salvador , Moreno Mar
Published: August 2021

This paper reports sophistication levels in third grade children’s understanding of polygon concept and polygon classes. We consider how children endow mathematical meaning to parts of figures and reason to identify relationships between polygons. We describe four levels of sophistication in children’s thinking as they consider a figure as an example of a polygon class through spatial structuring (the mental operation of building an organization for a set of figures). These levels are: (i) partial structuring of polygon concept; (ii) global structuring of polygon concept; (iii) partial structuring of polygon classes; and (iv) global structuring of polygon classes. These levels detail how cognitive apprehensions, dimensional deconstruction, and the use of mathematical language intervene in the mental process of spatial structuring in the understanding of the classes of polygons.
Stable Calculation of Krawtchouk Functions from Triplet Relations
Authors: den Brinker Albertus C.
Published: August 2021

Deployment of the recurrence relation or difference equation to generate discrete classical orthogonal polynomials is vulnerable to error propagation. This issue is addressed for the case of Krawtchouk functions, i.e., the orthonormal basis derived from the Krawtchouk polynomials. An algorithm is proposed for stable determination of these functions. This is achieved by defining proper initial points for the start of the recursions, balancing the order of the direction in which recursions are executed and adaptively restricting the range over which equations are applied. The adaptation is controlled by a user-specified deviation from unit norm. The theoretical background is given, the algorithmic concept is explained and the effect of controlled accuracy is demonstrated by examples.
Early Post-Transplant Leptin Concentration Changes in Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Sukackiene Diana , Laucyte-Cibulskiene Agne , Badaras Ignas , Rimsevicius Laurynas , Banys Valdas , Vitkus Dalius , Miglinas Marius
Published: August 2021

Background and Objectives: Kidney transplant recipients represent a unique population with metabolic abnormalities, altered nutritional and immune status, as well as an imbalanced regulation of adipocytokine metabolism. Leptin is a hormonally active protein mainly produced by fat tissue that modulates appetite, satiety, and influences growth, energy, and bone metabolism. There has been great interest in the role of this hormone in chronic kidney disease-related protein energy wasting; thus, a positive leptin correlation with body mass index and fat mass was confirmed. This study was designed to determine the association of pre and post-kidney transplant leptin concentration with nutritional status and body composition. Materials and Methods: We studied 65 kidney transplant recipients. Nutritional status was evaluated before kidney transplantation and 6 months later using three different malnutrition screening tools (Subjective Global Assessment Scale (SGA), Malnutrition Inflammation Score (MIS), and Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI)), anthropometric measurements, and body composition (bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA)). Demographic profile, serum leptin levels, and other biochemical nutritional markers were collected. Statistical analysis was performed with R software. Results: Median age of the studied patients was 45 years, 42% were females, and 12% had diabetes. Leptin change was associated with body weight (p < 0.001), waist circumference (p < 0.001), fat mass (p < 0.001) and body fat percentage (p < 0.001), decrease in parathyroid hormone (PTH) (p < 0.001) transferrin (p < 0.001), diabetes mellitus (p = 0.010), and residual renal function (p = 0.039), but not dependent on dialysis vintage, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), or delayed graft function at any time during the study. After adjustment for age and sex, body mass index (BMI) (p < 0.001), fat mass (p < 0.001), and body fat percentage (p < 0.001) were independent variables significantly associated with post-transplant leptin change. Lower leptin values were found both before and after kidney transplantation in the SGA B group. GNRI as a nutritional status tool was strongly positively related to changes in leptin within the 6-month follow-up period. Conclusions: Kidney transplant recipients experience change in leptin concentration mainly due to an increase in fat mass and loss of muscle mass. GNRI score as compared to SGA or MIS score identifies patients in whom leptin concentration is increasing alongside an accumulation of fat and decreasing muscle mass. Leptin concentration evaluation in combination with BIA, handgrip strength measurement, and GNRI assessment are tools of importance in defining nutrition status in the early post-kidney transplant period.
Prevalence and Clinical Implications of Incidentally Detected Parotid Lesions as Blind Spot on Brain MRI: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Nam In-Chul , Baek Hye-Jin , Ryu Kyeong-Hwa , Moon Jin-Il , Cho Eun , An Hyo-Jung , Yoon Seokho , Baik Jiyeon
Published: August 2021

Background and objective: This study was conducted to assess the prevalence and clinical implications of parotid lesions detected incidentally during brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination. Materials and Methods: Between February 2016 and February 2021, we identified 86 lesions in the brain MRI reports of 84 patients that contained the words “parotid gland” or “PG”. Of these, we finally included 49 lesions involving 45 patients following histopathological confirmation. Results: Based on the laboratory, radiological or histopathological findings, the prevalence of incidental parotid lesions was low (1.2%). Among the 45 study patients, 41 (91.1%) had unilateral lesions, and the majority of the lesions were located in the superficial lobe (40/49, 81.6%). The mean size of the parotid lesions was 1.3 cm ± 0.4 cm (range, 0.5 cm–2.8 cm). Of these, 46 parotid lesions (93.9%) were benign, whereas the remaining three lesions were malignant (6.1%). Conclusions: Despite the low prevalence and incidence of malignancy associated with incidental parotid lesions detected on brain MRI, the clinical implications are potentially significant. Therefore, clinical awareness and appropriate imaging work-up of these lesions are important for accurate diagnosis and timely management.
Low KIBRA Expression Is Associated with Poor Prognosis in Patients with Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Kim So-Woon , Chu Jinah , Do Sung-Im , Na Kiyong
Published: August 2021

Background and Objectives: Kidney and brain protein (KIBRA) is a protein encoded by the WW and C2 domain containing 1 (WWC1) gene and is involved in the Hippo signaling pathway. Recent studies have revealed the prognostic value of KIBRA expression; however, its role in breast cancer remains unclear. The aim of this study was to examine KIBRA expression in relation to the clinical and pathological characteristics of patients with breast cancer and to disease outcomes. Materials and Methods: We analyzed the expression of KIBRA and its correlation with event-free survival (EFS) outcomes in resected samples from 486 patients with breast cancer. Results: KIBRA expression was significantly different among the molecular subgroups (low KIBRA expression: luminal A, 46.7% versus 50.0%, p = 0.641; luminal B, 32.7% versus 71.7%, p < 0.001; human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-enriched, 64.9% versus 45.5%. p = 0.001; triple-negative, 73.6% versus 43.8%, p < 0.001). Low KIBRA expression was also associated with high nuclear grade (60.4% versus 37.8%, p < 0.001), high histologic grade (58.7% versus 37.0%, p < 0.001), and estrogen receptor (ER) negativity (54.2% versus 23.6%, p < 0.001). Low KIBRA expression was significantly associated with poor EFS (p = 0.041; hazard ratio (HR) 1.658; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.015–2.709). Low KIBRA expression was an independent indicator of poor prognosis (p = 0.001; HR = 3.952; 95% CI = 1.542–10.133) in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Conclusion: Low KIBRA expression was associated with higher histological grade, ER negativity and poor EFS of breast cancer. In particular, our data highlight KIBRA expression status as a potential prognostic marker for TNBC.
Mechanisms and Impact of Biofilms and Targeting of Biofilms Using Bioactive Compounds—A Review
Authors: Samrot Antony V. , Abubakar Mohamed Amira , Faradjeva Etel , Si Jie Lee , Hooi Sze Chin , Arif Akasha , Chuan Sean Tan , Norbert Michael Emmanuel , Yeok Mun Chua , Xiao Qi Ng , Ling Mok Pooi , Kumar Suresh S.
Published: August 2021

Biofilms comprising aggregates of microorganisms or multicellular communities have been a major issue as they cause resistance against antimicrobial agents and biofouling. To date, numerous biofilm-forming microorganisms have been identified, which have been shown to result in major effects including biofouling and biofilm-related infections. Quorum sensing (which describes the cell communication within biofilms) plays a vital role in the regulation of biofilm formation and its virulence. As such, elucidating the various mechanisms responsible for biofilm resistance (including quorum sensing) will assist in developing strategies to inhibit and control the formation of biofilms in nature. Employing biological control measures (such as the use of bioactive compounds) in targeting biofilms is of great interest since they naturally possess antimicrobial activity among other favorable attributes and can also possibly act as potent antibiofilm agents. As an effort to re-establish the current notion and understanding of biofilms, the present review discuss the stages involved in biofilm formation, the factors contributing to its development, the effects of biofilms in various industries, and the use of various bioactive compounds and their strategies in biofilm inhibition.
HiLo Based Line Scanning Temporal Focusing Microscopy for High-Speed, Deep Tissue Imaging
Authors: Shi Ruheng , Zhang Yuanlong , Zhou Tiankuang , Kong Lingjie
Published: August 2021

High-speed, optical-sectioning imaging is highly desired in biomedical studies, as most bio-structures and bio-dynamics are in three-dimensions. Compared to point-scanning techniques, line scanning temporal focusing microscopy (LSTFM) is a promising method that can achieve high temporal resolution while maintaining a deep penetration depth. However, the contrast and axial confinement would still be deteriorated in scattering tissue imaging. Here, we propose a HiLo-based LSTFM, utilizing structured illumination to inhibit the fluorescence background and, thus, enhance the image contrast and axial confinement in deep imaging. We demonstrate the superiority of our method by performing volumetric imaging of neurons and dynamical imaging of microglia in mouse brains in vivo.
Preparation of Hydrophobic PET Track-Etched Membranes for Separation of Oil–Water Emulsion
Authors: Korolkov Ilya V. , Narmukhamedova Asiya R. , Melnikova Galina B. , Muslimova Indira B. , Yeszhanov Arman B. , Zhatkanbayeva Zh K. , Chizhik Sergei A. , Zdorovets Maxim V.
Published: August 2021

The paper describes the separation of an oil–water emulsion by filtration using poly(ethylene terephthalate) track-etched membranes (PET TeMs) with regular pore geometry and narrow pore size distribution. PET TeMs were modified with trichloro(octyl)silane to increase their hydrophobic properties. Conditions for the modification of PET TeMs with trichloro(octyl)silane were investigated. The results of changes in the pore diameters and the contact angle depend on the concentration of trichloro(octyl)silane and the soaking time are presented. The obtained samples were characterized by FTIR, AFM, SEM-EDX and gas-permeability test. Chloroform–water and cetane–water emulsions have been used as a test liquid for oil–water separation.
Membrane-Based Solutions for the Polish Coal Mining Industry
Authors: Mitko Krzysztof , Turek Marian
Published: August 2021

Poland still relies largely on coal for energy generation, which creates environmental problems connected to the mining process, particularly the issue of saline waste water discharge. Membrane-based zero liquid discharge systems can be employed to recover important resources from coal mine waste waters, such as demineralized water, salt, magnesium hydroxide, and gypsum. In this paper, we present a historical overview of proposed membrane-based solutions for the Polish coal mining industry and discuss possible further areas of research.
Experimental Characterisation and Numerical Modelling of Residual Stresses in a Nuclear Safe-End Dissimilar Metal Weld Joint
Authors: Zhang Shuyan , Fan Zhuozhi , Li Jun , Wen Shuwen , Paddea Sanjooram , Lu Lili , Li Shiyi
Published: August 2021

In this study, a mock-up of a nuclear safe-end dissimilar metal weld (DMW) joint (SA508-3/316L) was manufactured. The manufacturing process involved cladding and buttering of the ferritic steel tube (SA508-3). It was then subjected to a stress relief heat treatment before being girth welded together with the stainless steel tube (316L). The finished mock-up was subsequently machined to its final dimension. The weld residual stresses were thoroughly characterised using neutron diffraction and the contour method. A detailed finite element (FE) modelling exercise was also carried out for the prediction of the weld residual stresses resulting from the manufacturing processes of the DMW joint. Both the experimental and numerical results showed high levels of tensile residual stresses predominantly in the hoop direction of the weld joint in its final machined condition, tending towards the OD surface. The maximum hoop residual stress determined by the contour method was 500 MPa, which compared very well with the FE prediction of 467.7 Mpa. Along the neutron scan line at the OD subsurface across the weld joint, both the contour method and the FE modelling gave maximum hoop residual stress near the weld fusion line on the 316L side at 388.2 and 453.2 Mpa respectively, whereas the neutron diffraction measured a similar value of 480.6 Mpa in the buttering zone near the SA508-3 side. The results of this research thus demonstrated the reasonable consistency of the three techniques employed in revealing the level and distribution of the residual stresses in the DMW joint for nuclear applications.
An Experimental Study of the Tension-Compression Asymmetry of Extruded Ti-6.5Al-2Zr-1Mo-1V under Quasi-Static Conditions at High Temperature
Authors: Zhang Chen , Li Dongsheng , Li Xiaoqiang , Li Yong
Published: August 2021

The tension-compression asymmetry (TCA) behavior of an extruded titanium alloy at high temperatures has been investigated experimentally in this study. Uniaxial tensile and compressive tests were conducted from 923 to 1023 K with various strain rates under quasi-static conditions. The corresponding yield stress and asymmetric strain hardening behavior were obtained and analyzed. In addition, the microstructure at different temperatures and stress states indicates that the extruded TA15 profile exhibits a significant yield stress asymmetry at different testing temperatures. The flow stress and yield stress during tension are greater than compression. The yield stress asymmetry decreases with the increase in temperature. The alloy also exhibits TCA behavior on the strain hardening rate. Its mechanical response during compression is more sensitive than tension. A dynamic recrystallization phenomenon is observed instead of twin generated in tension and compression under high-temperature quasi-static conditions. The grains are elongated along the tensile direction and deformed by about 45° along the compressive load axis. Finally, the TCA of Ti-6.5Al-2Zr-1Mo-1V (TA15) alloy is due to slip displacement. The tensile deformation activates basal , prismatic  and pyramidal  slip modes, while the compressive deformation activates only prismatic  and pyramidal  slip modes.
Review of Recent Research on AlCoCrFeNi High-Entropy Alloy
Authors: Tokarewicz Marzena , Grądzka-Dahlke Małgorzata
Published: August 2021

High-entropy alloys (HEAs) have gained significant interest in recent years because of their outstanding properties. The AlCoCrFeNi alloy is one of the most studied HEAs. The effect of the manufacturing methods and heat treatment on the properties of the high-entropy AlCoCrFeNi alloy is under intense scrutiny. The effect of varying component content on properties of the alloy is frequently analysed. Aluminium is most popular due to its impact on alloy microstructure and occurrence of phases. Research is also conducted on the influence of alloying additives, such as boron and titanium, on the properties of the AlCoCrFeNi alloy. High-entropy alloys also have excellent mechanical properties at high temperatures. Excellent structural and functional properties make them suitable for application in the most demanding conditions. The research conducted on HEAs still provides a lot of new and valuable information on the properties and structures of these alloys. This article summarizes the most important information about HEAs, specifically the AlCoCrFeNi alloy.