bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Study of microstructure of selected dental restoration parts
Authors: Koštialiková D , Janeková M , Dubec A , Kováčiková P , Pešlová F 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
The given paper as well as the whole complex of problems is closely connected with the investigation of the selected materials which are used for dental implants manufacture. The investigated implants had to be removed prematurely from the patient’s mouth cavity due to the occurrence of critical states (CS) in relation to the manufacturing material. These critical states of the material led to the malfunction and unacceptability of the dental implants from the aspect of the health condition and the hypersensitivity of the patient to degraded implant material. This work is mainly based on the combination of the theoretical as well as practical knowledge along with predetermination and specification of the needed testing procedures for materials which are commonly used for dental implants. Samples were prepared from the cut sections of the implants in a metallographic (ceramographic) way and subsequently, they were investigated in the terms of their structural properties. The main aim of this paper was to present the microscopic evaluation of the materials for implants and to analyse the undesirable defects that led to their destruction.
The effect of various alternative filler granularity on the properties of elastomeric vulcanizate
Authors: Labaj I , Ondrušová D , Vršková J , Kohutiar M 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
This work deals with the influence of different alternative filler granularities or fractions (size) on properties of real elastomeric blend. Alternatively, the filler was subjected to a sieve analysis to obtain individual fractions of filler as well as to determine the ratio of individual fractions in a determined amount of alternative filler. The main objective was to evaluate the effect of the granularities on the basic properties of the elastomeric blend. Prepared elastomeric blends were studied in terms of their properties and vulcanization characteristics. The resulting vulcanizates were tested from the aspect of hardness and rebound resilience. In the case of commercially available fillers (e.g. carbon black), the granularity is a significant parameter affecting the properties of the elastomeric blends. From the results of tests for the prepared materials, it is possible to determine the most suitable granularity of the alternative filler for the preparation of elastomeric materials. In relation to given suitable granularity, the application of the basic alternative filler is not suitable to achieve better quality parameters. The results show a significant granularity effect of the alternative filler on the properties (hardness, rebound resilience, rheological, vulcanization characteristics) of the elastomeric vulcanizate.
Determination of engine oil characteristics
Authors: Moricová K , Papučová I , Ďurišová S , Janík R 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
The given introduced paper deals with determination of contamination, content of elements, change of composition and stability against the oxidation of motor oils. This work is aimed at chaining the individual properties of engine oil in dependence on the use of oil in traffic. Results show, that properties of engine oils do not depend only on the time of use but they also depend on other factors, such as state of the vehicle, the way of driving the vehicle, and the condition of maitenance.
Evaluation of thermal insulation properties and dynamic moisture transfer of knitted fabrics
Authors: Legerská J , Ondrušová D , Krmela J 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the thermo-physiological comfort of weft knitted fabrics and to investigate applied methods of heat and water transfer. The examined weft knitted fabrics had a different structure as well as a material composition. They were made for wearing in moderate alternatively hot climate conditions such as in Europe. Selected properties were measured on the C-Therm Tci and Moisture Management Tester (MMT) devices. We concluded that the weft knitted fabrics made of polyester, of greater thickness and specific density are comfortable in hot and moderate climate conditions. The most suitable alternative is to combine structures and materials in the manufacturing process of knitted products.
Effect of alternative filler from glass industry on the selected properties of friction polymer matrix in automotive industry
Authors: Vršková J , Ondrušová D , Labaj I , Kopal I 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
This paper is focused on the preparation of polymer blends with addition of alternative filler from glass industry in various granularity (>40 µm, 40–32 µm, 32–25 µm, 25–0 µm). The polymer matrix (PMX3) consists of melamine resin, phenolic resin and nitrile rubber. This polymer matrix composition is commonly applied in friction composite systems in automotive industry. The surface activity of various filler fractions was studied. The rheological properties, such as minimum torque, maximum torque, optimum vulcanization time and scorch time of prepared friction polymer matrix were tested, using the PRPA 2000 rheometer. Mooney viscosity of new prepared polymer matrix was studied with help of Mooney Viscosimetr 91.03 Gottert testing machine.
An application of the Kalman filter in automated guided vehicles
Authors: Dobrzanska M , Dobrzanski P 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
The article presents an example of using the Kalman filter in the navigation process of an automated guided vehicles (AGV). Odometry – computational navigation is the basis for determining the location of automated guided vehicles. Many errors affect this method of determining the vehicle’s position. In order to eliminate these errors in modern vehicles, additional systems are used to increase the accuracy of determining the position of the vehicle. In the latest navigation systems, probabilistic methods are applied to adjust the route and the position. The Kalman filters are most commonly used.
Digital filtration methods in selected industrial applications
Authors: Dobrzanski P , Dobrzanska M 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
The aim of the article is to present selected methods of digital filtration and their algorithms used in industry. The article presents some examples of the use of digital filtration methods in two areas. The first area of an application of filtration covered the issue related to production technology and surface topography. The second area describes examples of the use of filtration in the navigation of automated guided vehicles (AGV) serving production lines. In the research part, selected methods of digital filtration were tested and their effectiveness was determined.
Nanostars—decorated microfluidic sensors for surface enhanced Raman scattering targeting of biomolecules
Authors: Dallari Caterina , Credi Caterina , Lenci Elena , Trabocchi Andrea , Cicchi Riccardo , Pavone Francesco Saverio 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Novel localised surface plasmon resonance-based sensors exploitable as diagnostic devices through surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) represent a powerful solution for the analysis of liquid samples. In this work, we developed a rapid, versatile, low-cost and time-saving strategy combining advanced (3D-printing) and traditional manufacturing (replica molding) processes to prototype polymeric microfluidic devices, integrating all the components into a single portable platform. Microfluidics provide multiplexed capability, adequate miniaturization and robustness, handling simplicity, reliability, as well as low sample and reagents consumption, while the use of polydimethylsiloxane as supporting substrate drastically reduces the final cost. To introduce SERS capability, plasmonic features were incorporated functionalizing substrates with gold nanoparticles (NPs), engineered in terms of shape, size and surface chemistry to play with plasmonic properties as well as to guarantee reproducibility to the NPs immobilization step and consequently to the SERS effect for signal enhancing. To assess the feasibility of the measurements for molecules optical targeting, SERS-microfluidic systems were synergically coupled with a portable fiber-based set-up and Raman spectra of rhodamine 6 G at different concentrations were acquired. To further demonstrate the potentiality of developed SERS-based substrates as point-of-care devices, Raman analysis were successfully implemented on aqueous solutions of amyloid-β 1–42 (Aβ), considered the main biomarkers for Alzheimer’s disease.
Synthesis of reduced graphene oxide based on thermally modified liquid-phase exfoliation
Authors: Pratama Buky Wahyu , Dwandaru Wipsar Sunu Brams 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
We report a modification of the liquid-phase exfoliation (LPE) method in order to produce reduced graphene oxide (rGO) material by varying the heating temperature. The rGO was obtained by dissolving graphite powder into a surfactant solution and then heated by varying the heating temperature. There is an intercalation process on the graphene layers as the heating temperature was increased. The rGO material were tested using UV–vis, FTIR, Raman spectroscopies, and conductivity measurement based on Ohm principles.
Older patients undergoing emergency laparotomy: observations from the National Emergency Laparotomy Audit (NELA) years 1–4
Authors: Aitken Rachel M , Partridge Judith S L , Oliver Charles Matthew , Murray Dave , Hare Sarah , Lockwood Sonia , Beckley-Hoelscher Nick , Dhesi Jugdeep K 
Published: April 2020

Abstract

Background
older patients aged ≥65 years constitute the majority of the National Emergency Laparotomy Audit (NELA) population. To better understand this group and inform future service changes, this paper aims to describe patient characteristics, outcomes and process measures across age cohorts and temporally in the 4-year period (2014–2017) since NELA was established.

Methods
patient-level data were populated from the NELA data set years 1–4 and linked with Office of National Statistics mortality data. Descriptive data were compared between groups delineated by age, NELA year and geriatrician review. Primary outcomes were 30- and 90-day mortality, length of stay (LOS) and discharge to care-home accommodation.

Results
in total, 93,415 NELA patients were included in the analysis. The median age was 67 years. Patients aged ≥65 years had higher 30-day (15.3 versus 4.9%, P &lt; 0.001) and 90-day mortality (20.4 versus 7.2%, P &lt; 0.001) rates, longer LOS (median 15.2 versus 11.3 days, P &lt; 0.001) and greater likelihood of discharge to care-home accommodation compared with younger patients (6.7 versus 1.9%, P &lt; 0.001). Mortality rate reduction over time was greater in older compared with younger patients. The proportion of older NELA patients seen by a geriatrician post-operatively increased over years 1–4 (8.5 to 16.5%, P &lt; 0.001). Post-operative geriatrician review was associated with reduced mortality (30-day odds ratio [OR] 0.38, confidence interval [CI] 0.35–0.42, P &lt; 0.001; 90-day OR 0.6, CI 0.56–0.65, P &lt; 0.001).

Conclusions
older NELA patients have poorer post-operative outcomes. The greatest reduction in mortality rates over time were observed in the oldest cohorts. This may be due to several interventions including increased perioperative geriatrician input.
Feasibility and acceptability of the ‘Acutely Presenting Older Patient’ screener in routine emergency department care
Authors: Blomaard Laura C , Mooijaart Simon P , Bolt Shanti , Lucke Jacinta A , de Gelder Jelle , Booijen Anja M , Gussekloo Jacobijn , de Groot Bas 
Published: April 2020

Abstract

Background
risk stratification tools for older patients in the emergency department (ED) have rarely been implemented successfully in routine care.

Objective
to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of the ‘Acutely Presenting Older Patient’ (APOP) screener, which identifies older ED patients at the highest risk of adverse outcomes within 2 minutes at presentation.

Design and setting
2-month prospective cohort study, after the implementation of the APOP screener in ED routine care in the Leiden University Medical Center.

Subjects
all consecutive ED patients aged ≥70 years.

Methods
feasibility of screening was assessed by measuring the screening rate and by identifying patient- and organisation-related determinants of screening completion. Acceptability was assessed by collecting experienced barriers of screening completion from triage-nurses.

Results
we included 953 patients with a median age of 77 (IQR 72–82) years, of which 560 (59%) patients were screened. Patients had a higher probability of being screened when they had a higher age (OR 1.03 (95%CI 1.01–1.06), P = 0.017). Patients had a lower probability of being screened when they were triaged very urgent (OR 0.55 (0.39–0.78), P = 0.001) or when the number of patients upon arrival was high (OR 0.63 (0.47–0.86), P = 0.003). Experienced barriers of screening completion were patient-related (‘patient was too sick’), organisation-related (‘ED was too busy’) and personnel-related (‘forgot to complete screening’).

Conclusion
with more than half of all older patients screened, feasibility and acceptability of screening in routine ED care is very promising. To further improve screening completion, solutions are needed for patients who present with high urgency and during ED rush hours.
Mechanistically derived patient-level framework for precision medicine identifies a personalized immune prognostic signature in high-grade serous ovarian cancer
Authors: Zhao Hengqiang , Gu Shanshan , Bao Siqi , Yan Congcong , Zhang Zicheng , Hou Ping , Zhou Meng , Sun Jie 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
An accurate prognosis assessment for cancer patients could aid in guiding clinical decision-making. Reliance on traditional clinical features alone in a complex clinical environment is challenging and unsatisfactory in the era of precision medicine; thus, reliable prognostic biomarkers are urgently required to improve a patient staging system. In this study, we proposed a patient-level computational framework from mechanistic and translational perspectives to establish a personalized prognostic signature (named PLPPS) in high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC). The PLPPS composed of 68 immune genes achieved accurate prognostic risk stratification for 1190 patients in the meta-training cohort and was rigorously validated in multiple cross-platform independent cohorts comprising 792 HGSOC patients. Furthermore, the PLPPS was shown to be the better prognostic factor compared with clinical parameters in the univariate analysis and retained a significant independent association with prognosis after adjusting for clinical parameters in the multivariate analysis. In benchmark comparisons, the performance of PLPPS (hazard ratio (HR), 1.371; concordance index (C-index), 0.604 and area under the curve (AUC), 0.637) is comparable to or better than other published gene signatures (HR, 0.972 to 1.340; C-index, 0.495 to 0.592 and AUC, 0.48–0.624). With further validation in prospective clinical trials, we hope that the PLPPS might become a promising genomic tool to guide personalized management and decision-making of HGSOC in clinical practice.
A Real-world Evaluation of a Case-based Reasoning Algorithm to Support Antimicrobial Prescribing Decisions in Acute Care
Authors: Rawson Timothy M , Hernandez Bernard , Moore Luke S P , Herrero Pau , Charani Esmita , Ming Damien , Wilson Richard C , Blandy Oliver , Sriskandan Shiranee , Gilchrist Mark , Toumazou Christofer , Georgiou Pantelis , Holmes Alison H 
Published: April 2020

Abstract

Background
A locally developed case-based reasoning (CBR) algorithm, designed to augment antimicrobial prescribing in secondary care was evaluated.

Methods
Prescribing recommendations made by a CBR algorithm were compared to decisions made by physicians in clinical practice. Comparisons were examined in 2 patient populations: first, in patients with confirmed Escherichia coli blood stream infections (“E. coli patients”), and second in ward-based patients presenting with a range of potential infections (“ward patients”). Prescribing recommendations were compared against the Antimicrobial Spectrum Index (ASI) and the World Health Organization Essential Medicine List Access, Watch, Reserve (AWaRe) classification system. Appropriateness of a prescription was defined as the spectrum of the prescription covering the known or most-likely organism antimicrobial sensitivity profile.

Results
In total, 224 patients (145 E. coli patients and 79 ward patients) were included. Mean (standard deviation) age was 66 (18) years with 108/224 (48%) female sex. The CBR recommendations were appropriate in 202/224 (90%) compared to 186/224 (83%) in practice (odds ratio [OR]: 1.24 95% confidence interval [CI]: .392–3.936; P = .71). CBR recommendations had a smaller ASI compared to practice with a median (range) of 6 (0–13) compared to 8 (0–12) (P &lt; .01). CBR recommendations were more likely to be classified as Access class antimicrobials compared to physicians’ prescriptions at 110/224 (49%) vs. 79/224 (35%) (OR: 1.77; 95% CI: 1.212–2.588; P &lt; .01). Results were similar for E. coli and ward patients on subgroup analysis.

Conclusions
A CBR-driven decision support system provided appropriate recommendations within a narrower spectrum compared to current clinical practice. Future work must investigate the impact of this intervention on prescribing behaviors more broadly and patient outcomes.
Understanding Patient-Based Real-Time Quality Control Using Simulation Modeling
Authors: Bietenbeck Andreas , Cervinski Mark A , Katayev Alex , Loh Tze Ping , van Rossum Huub H , Badrick Tony 
Published: April 2020

Abstract

Background
Patient-based real-time quality control (PBRTQC) avoids limitations of traditional quality control methods based on the measurement of stabilized control samples. However, PBRTQC needs to be adapted to the individual laboratories with parameters such as algorithm, truncation, block size, and control limit.

Methods
In a computer simulation, biases were added to real patient results of 10 analytes with diverse properties. Different PBRTQC methods were assessed on their ability to detect these biases early.

Results
The simulation based on 460 000 historical patient measurements for each analyte revealed several recommendations for PBRTQC. Control limit calculation with “percentiles of daily extremes” led to effective limits and allowed specification of the percentage of days with false alarms. However, changes in measurement distribution easily increased false alarms. Box–Cox but not logarithmic transformation improved error detection. Winsorization of outlying values often led to a better performance than simple outlier removal. For medians and Harrell–Davis 50 percentile estimators (HD50s), no truncation was necessary. Block size influenced medians substantially and HD50s to a lesser extent. Conversely, a change of truncation limits affected means and exponentially moving averages more than a change of block sizes. A large spread of patient measurements impeded error detection. PBRTQC methods were not always able to detect an allowable bias within the simulated 1000 erroneous measurements. A web application was developed to estimate PBRTQC performance.

Conclusions
Computer simulations can optimize PBRTQC but some parameters are generally superior and can be taken as default.
Functional and Taxonomic Beta Diversity of Saproxylic Beetles in Mediterranean Forests: On What Factors Do They Depend?
Authors: Pérez-Sánchez D , Galante E , Micó E 
Published: April 2020

AbstractUnderstanding how biodiversity is distributed across geographical and environmental gradients is a main goal of diversity sciences. However, since ecosystem processes are linked to variation in functional traits of the biota, examining functional beta diversity is particularly important. Our objective was to analyze the taxonomic and functional beta diversity patterns of saproxylic beetle assemblages in evergreen Quercus forest of Spain. We tested whether environmental or geographical distance had a greater influence on taxonomic and functional beta diversity, and if both measures of beta diversity were affected by the same environmental variables. We used 45 flight interception traps distributed in three protected areas over a 12-mo period to sample saproxylic beetles. We measured 13 environmental variables around each trap and the geographical distance between traps. For functional composition, we used 12 functional traits from four functional groups (morphological, phenological, trophic, and a surrogate of physiological). Our results showed that environmental differences between areas influenced the taxonomic and functional beta diversity components (replacement and loss/gain) but in different ways. While replacement components (higher for taxonomic composition) increased with environmental distance, the loss or gain components (higher for functional composition) remained constant, indicating that species replacement mostly involved functionally redundant species. Besides, environmental variables influencing both taxonomic and functional composition were strongly dependent on each area. In conclusion, in well-preserved Mediterranean forests, environmental filtering determines the taxonomic and functional composition of saproxylic beetle assemblages, by favoring species replacement but filtering species traits.
Feeding, Survival, and Fecundity of Adult Emerald Ash Borer (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) on Foliage of Two Novel Hosts and Implications for Host Range Expansion
Authors: Peterson Donnie L , Slager Ben , Anulewicz Andrea C , Cipollini Don 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Insect herbivores are more likely to successfully use a novel host if the plant is closely related to the ancestral host and the insect is polyphagous. Emerald ash borer (EAB), Agrilus planipennis (Fairmaire) (Coleoptera: Buprestidae), is a specialist wood borer of ash (Fraxinus spp., Lamiales: Oleaceae) trees and one of the most destructive forest pests in North American forests. Recent studies have found that larvae can develop in stems of two ash relatives; white fringetree (Chionanthus virginicus (L.) [Laminales: Oleaceae]) and cultivated olive (Olea europaea (L.) [Laminales: Oleaceae]). For EAB adults, the ability to consume, successfully mate, and lay viable eggs on foliage of these hosts is unknown. Thus, we conducted two no-choice assays with adult EAB on foliage of white fringetree and olive paired with positive controls of susceptible ash. Larval performance was also examined in a reciprocal study with cut stems of white fringetree and green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica Marshall) to determine whether adult diet impacted the success of progeny. Longevity, consumption rates, and fecundity of adults were similar on white fringetree and ash foliage. In contrast, adults consuming olive died quickly, consumed more over time, and females laid far fewer eggs compared to those on ash. Adult diet did not impact larval success, but larvae in white fringetree stems grew slower. These results indicate that white fringetree is a suitable host for EAB to complete its lifecycle, although larvae perform more poorly on this host than in susceptible ash species. In contrast, the more distantly related olive appears to be a poor host for adult EAB, although some viable eggs were produced by females.