bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of glandular dose in mammography in presence of breast cysts using Monte Carlo simulation
Authors: Deevband Mohammad Reza , Kaveh Zeinab , Ghorbani Mahdi , Khajetash Benyamin 
Published: April 2021

Abstract

Background: Normalized glandular dose (DgN) is an important dosimetric quantity in mammography.

Aim: In this study, the effect of the presence of breast cysts and their size, number and location on DgN is evaluated.

Materials and methods: The effect of the presence of cysts in breast was examined using MCNPX code. This was performed by taking homogeneous breast phantoms containing spheroid breast cysts into account. The radius of the cysts, numbers of the cysts, and depth of the cysts, and their location were variable. Various electron energies were also considered. Finally, these results were compared with the results of a cyst-less breast phantom.

Results: The results show that the effect of the presence of cysts in the breast depends on the size, number and location of cysts. The presence of cysts at lower depths leads to a decrease in the DgN values, compared to the breast phantom without cysts. The presence of cysts in the breast phantom has an effect of -7 to +14 percent on the DgN values under the conditions considered in this modeling. This effect is independent of the X-ray tube voltage, the breast phantom thickness, and glandular ratio, and depends only on the number and size and location of the cysts. The bigger radius and number of cysts, the greater effect on DgN value.
Treatment of lesions on the vestibular surfaces of permanent teeth with the use of liquid resin of low viscosity
Authors: Szewczak Ilona , Kubić-Filiks Beata , Szymańska Jolanta 
Published: April 2021

Summary
One of the methods of treatment of initial stages of dental caries, lesions characterized by demineralization, and white spots on the vestibular surfaces of permanent teeth, is infiltration with liquid resin of low viscosity. It is a non-invasive method which is worth recommending and popularizing among patients.
On the basis of available literature the therapeutic method of infiltration with liquid resin of low viscosity is presented.
The use of resin of low viscosity allows for obtaining appropriate esthetic and functional appearance of teeth, which is a vital step in improvement of quality of social and professional life of patient.
Partial reinforcement in rat autoshaping with a long CS: Effects of pramipexole and chlordiazepoxide on sign and goal tracking
Authors: Fuentes-Verdugo Esmeralda , Pellón Ricardo , Papini Mauricio R. , Torres Carmen , Anselme Patrick 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
In Pavlovian autoshaping, sign-tracking responses (lever pressing) to a conditioned stimulus (CS) are usually invigorated under partial reinforcement (PR) compared to continuous reinforcement (CR). This effect, called the PR acquisition effect (PRAE), can be interpreted in terms of increased incentive hope or frustration-induced drive derived from PR training. Incentive hope and frustration have been related to dopaminergic and GABAergic activity, respectively. We examined the within-trial dynamics of sign and goal tracking in rats exposed to 20-s-long lever presentations during autoshaping acquisition under PR vs. CR conditions under the effects of drugs tapping on dopamine and GABA activity. There was no evidence of the PRAE in these results, both groups showing high, stable sign-tracking response rates. However, the pharmacological treatments affected behavior as revealed in within-trial changes. The dopamine D2 receptor agonist pramipexole (0.4 mg/kg) suppressed lever pressing and magazine entries relative to saline controls in a within-subject design, but only in PR animals. The allosteric benzodiazepine chlordiazepoxide (5 mg/kg) failed to affect either sign or goal tracking in either CR or PR animals. These results emphasize the roles of dopamine and GABA receptors in autoshaping performance, but remain inconclusive with respect to incentive hope and frustration theories. Some aspects of within-trial changes in sign and goal tracking are consistent with a mixture of reward timing and response competition.
Zoning of Areas with Susceptibility to Oak Decline in Western Iran
Authors: Ghanbari Motlagh Mohadeseh , Kiadaliri Masoud 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Zagros forests have the greatest impact on soil and water protection in western Iran. Despite this, a significant part of these forests, especially in Ilam province, have suffered a lot due to the phenomenon of oak decline. The first and most fundamental thing a person must know when combating this issue is the distribution of these areas in forests. Therefore, using the parameters affecting the decline in the forests of Ilam province and based on fuzzy logic, a map of susceptible to oak decline areas was prepared. In this study, the parameters of temperature and precipitation, slope, aspect, altitude, distance from farmlands, roads and forest density were selected as effective parameters and fuzzy gamma overlap method was used. The results showed that more than 77% of the oak forests in the province are highly and extremely susceptible to the decline. This confirms the need for rapid action to plan and protect these forests. In addition, the fuzzy method is proposed, which is considered as a fast and efficient method in preparing such maps for other areas.
Landscapes, Settlements and Traditional Housing in Samtskhe-Javakheti, Georgia
Authors: Maisuradze Roman , Khardziani Tamar , Eradze Tea 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
A change in livelihood and folk architecture is an indicator of cultural landscape transformation, which is often the result of changes occurring in the natural and socio-political realms. The diversity of architectural types of buildings as an element of landscape diversity distinguishes our research region. The presented study deals with a long-term change of housing and architectural types of settlements. Our goal was to identify, geolocalise, and classify the vernacular architecture of Samtskhe-Javakheti within the different types of natural landscapes. For this purpose, we used the HGIS (Historical Geoinformation System) approach, which comprises the application of both historic sources and GIS technologies. We identified seven types of buildings in the study area, the characteristics of which depended on the natural landscape features. The following factors had been determining the geography of the construction: geology, seismicity, terrain, climate, access to building materials and defence. Dominant architectural types of buildings in the study region were as follows: fortress Rabat with stone houses, stone houses, semi-underground houses mixed with stone houses, semi-underground houses, terraced semi-underground houses, cave dwellings and wooden log houses. In modern times, it is quite rare to come across these kinds of architectural buildings, and there is a tendency of their disappearance.
Sialendoscopy and CT navigation assistance in the surgery of sialolithiasis
Authors: Anicin Aleksandar , Urbancic Jure 
Published: April 2021

Abstract

Background
A sialendoscopy-assisted combined approach is well established in the surgery of sialolithiasis. In cases of proximal salivary stones, transcutaneous sialendoscopy-assisted extractions with parotid and submandibular gland preservation is the primary intention of treatment. We recently added computer tomography (CT) navigation to improve the results of this challenging surgery equally in both localizations.

Patients and methods
Al l the patients who submitted to sialendoscopy and sialendoscopy-assisted procedures at the tertiary institution between January 2012 and October 2020 were included in the present study. From November 2019, CT navigation was added in cases with sialolithiasis and a presumably poor sialendoscopic visibility. We evaluated the parameters of the disease, diagnostic procedures, sialendoscopic findings and outcomes, with or without optical surgical navigation.

Results
We performed 178 successful salivary stone removals in 372 patients, of which 118 were combined sialendos-copy-assisted approaches, including 16 transcutaneous proximal, 10 submandibular and 6 parotid stone operations. Surgical navigation was used in six patients, four times for submandibular and twice for parotid sialolithiasis. These were all non-palpable, sialendoscopically invisible or partially visible stones, and we managed to preserve five of the six salivary glands.

Conclusions
The addition of CT navigation to sialendoscopy-assisted procedures for non-palpable, sialendoscopically invisible and fixed stones is a significant advantage in managing sialolithiasis. By consistently performing sialendoscopy and related preservation procedures, we significantly reduced the need for sialoadenectomies in patients with obstructive salivary gland disease.
Prognostic factors in postoperative radiotherapy for prostate cancer – tertiary center experience
Authors: Miszczyk Marcin , Majewski Wojciech , Stawiski Konrad , Rasławski Konrad , Rajwa Paweł , Jabłońska Iwona , Magrowski Łukasz , Masri Oliwia , Paradysz Andrzej , Miszczyk Leszek 
Published: April 2021

Abstract

Background
The aim of the study was to analyse the prognostic factors in postoperative prostate cancer irradiation and develop a nomogram for disease-free survival (DFS).

Patients and methods
This retrospective study included 236 consecutive prostate cancer patients who had radical prostatectomy followed by radiotherapy (RT) at a single tertiary institution between 2009 and 2014. The main outcome was DFS analysed through uni- and multivariable analysis, Kaplan-Meier curves, log-rank testing, recursive partitioning analysis, and nomogram development.

Results
The median follow up was 62.3 (interquartile range [IQR] 38.1–79) months. The independent clinical factors associated with increased risk of recurrence or progression in the multivariate analysis (MVA) were prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level before RT, pT3 characteristic, and local failure as salvage indication. The value of PSA nadir had a significant impact on the risk of biochemical failure. Biochemical control and DFS were significantly different depending on treatment indication (p < 0.0001). The recursive partitioning analysis highlighted the importance of the PSA level before RT, Gleason Grade Group, PSA nadir, and local failure as a treatment indication. Finally, the nomogram for DFS was developed and is available online at https://apps.konsta.com.pl/app/prostate-salvage-dfs/.

Conclusions
The Pre-RT PSA level, pT3 characteristic and local failure as salvage indication are pivotal prognostic factors associated with increased risk of recurrence or progression. The Gleason grade group of 4–5 and PSA nadir value allow for further risk stratification. The treatment outcomes in postoperative prostate cancer irradiation are significantly different depending on treatment indication. An online nomogram comprising of both pre-treatment and current data was developed allowing for visualization of changes in prognosis depending on clinical data.
Global South teacher educators in digital landscape: implications on professional learning
Authors: Impedovo Maria Antonietta , Malik Sufiana Khatoon , Kinley Kinley 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
This article explores Pakistani and Bhutanese teacher educators’ digital competences about the use of social media, digital resources and professional online communities and implications of this on professional learning. The two countries, less discussed in international educational literature, are facing a growing use of the Internet in teaching and learning. Data include a survey completed by 67 teacher educators from Pakistan and 37 teachers from Bhutan, as well as semi-structured interviews from both countries. This study provides evidence of how teachers’ interaction on social networks and the use of digital resources play a central role in the introduction of innovative pedagogical practices of teacher educators, and teacher educators remain interested in knowledge sharing through social media for their professional learning.
Discussion boards as a culturally responsive tool in the ESL classroom
Authors: Mendoza Laura E. 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
The inclusion of new digital literacies in the ESL classroom has been growing lately. This study presents information about how beneficial it can be for emergent bilinguals to use an online platform, Blackboard, to engage in thoughtful and meaningful discussion boards. Findings from this qualitative case study show that such online discussion boards help students to not only develop their linguistic abilities, but also to feel valued as they can share their knowledges and experiences as part of the discussions. Discussions in the present study rely on students’ funds of knowledges to promote a more inclusive and multicultural classroom.
Hybridising media education and social pedagogy: the (missed) opportunity in educational intervention with refugees in the ‘Italian reception system’
Authors: Pasta Stefano 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
The thesis of this article is that in the informational society, social and intercultural education must be hybridized with media education. From this strong incorporation of media in education comes an approach to citizenship education as a new field of action in media education.
The case study analysed deals with the flow of refugees into Italy as of 2013, following which there was a substantial investment in financing and in educating personnel in the reception system.
Historically, there has always been a strong correlation between technology and migration; technology’s role as an active agent pertains not only to refugees’ departure but also to the entire migratory itinerary and the later process of integrating into the local community. Smartphones, global positioning systems, social networks and applications can make the difference between success and failure along the migration route. However, at reception centres, training practices in the digital environment do not characterise the structured educational offer but instead are more customary in refugees’ informal self-studies and build digital literacy. On the contrary, it appears useful to develop and promote refugees’ digital knowledge and literacy through practices that are not left to chance but are planned with pedagogical attention.
Perceptions of Academics on Real Estate Topics in Africa
Authors: Chikafalimani Samuel H.P. , Kibwami Nathan , Moyo Sibusiso 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
This paper presents the perceptions of academics on real estate topics offered in Bachelors Real Estate (BRE) curricula in Africa. In order to understand the perceptions of academics on real estate topics, a survey of seven selected BRE curricula offered in different regions of Africa was conducted to determine important real estate topics academics included in the curricula. After analyzing the curricula, sorting and re-grouping the topics: Real estate management, Real estate valuation, Real estate economics, Real estate finance and investment, Real estate development, Real estate law, Real estate planning, Real estate research, Real estate industrial training and Real estate electives emerged to be important topics the academics considered to include in the curricula. The topics are in line with those expected in a real estate curriculum. In addition, results revealed that BRE curricula follow the interdisciplinary approach to real estate education. Findings will encourage universities in Africa and elsewhere to develop comprehensive real estate curricula or improve existing ones to accommodate the interdisciplinary approach and the international perspective of real estate education because of their benefits. The study will also support the harmonization of real estate education, practice, investment and business in Africa, hence contributing towards the economic development of the continent.
Monitoring Bituminous Layers Using Thermal Images
Authors: David Viorica , Belc Anda Ligia , Jianu Maria-Roberta , Muşat Cosmin Constantin 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
The importance of mastering the temperatures of laying and compacting the bituminous layers is addressed by a multitude of researches in the field, but the treatment of their control possibilities throughout the work surface is less addressed. Checking the temperatures through classical methods (usually point measurements with a manual thermometer or on the direction of the thermometer attached to the beam of the spreading-finishing machine) can outline an image of the working temperatures, but cannot certify that the entire surface of the layer is at the same temperature.
This article presents a new method for monitoring bituminous layers during execution, on an experimental road sector, with the help of a UAV (UAV - Unmanned Aerial Vehicle), equipped with two image capture cameras (for the visible area and for the infrared field). Following the qualitative analysis of the thermal images, information is obtained regarding the place where there are anomalies of the temperature uniformity, on the surface of the freshly laid bituminous layer.
Vertical Interaction Between a Driving Wheelset and Track in the Presence of the Rolling Surfaces Harmonic Irregularities
Authors: Mazilu Traian , Răcănel Ionuţ Radu , Gheți Marius Alin 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
The driving wheelset is used in railway traction (locomotives, electric trains, trams, etc.) to support part of the weight of the suspended mass and to drive and brake the vehicle. The dynamics of the driving wheelset/track system is a very important issue in the railway engineering, and this paper is focused on basic features of the frequency response functions which describe the dynamic behavior in the presence of the rolling surfaces harmonic irregularities. To this end, a simple model of the driving wheelset/track system with the range of application limited up to 6-700 Hz is adopted. The driving wheelset model consists of a free-free uniform Euler-Bernoulli beam with three attached rigid bodies, representing the axle, the two wheels and the gear; the distinct feature of this model is the inertial asymmetry. Two independent infinite uniform Euler-Bernoulli beams, each on its foundation including two elastic layers for rail pad and ballast and an intermediate inertial layer for sleepers represent the track model. For simplicity, the moving irregularity model is applied to simulate the interaction between wheels and rails. Numerical simulations show that the driving wheelset/track system has three resonance frequencies, all situated in the frequency range of the evanescent waves in rails. FRF of the driving wheelset/track system have been calculated for left and right wheel/rail pair. The influence of the asymmetric inertia of the driving wheelset and the out of phase between the rolling surface irregularities are evaluated in terms of frequency response functions of the wheel/rail contact force.
Comparison of Foundry Industry in Slovakia and Hungary
Authors: Šuba Roland , Bajčičák Martin , Bajčičáková Ingrida , Podhorský Štefan , Liska János 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Foundry industry is an important supplier of complex shape parts for other industrial branches. It depends on the development of customer demand in other industries. The following paper compares the structure and sales of foundry industry in Slovakia and Hungary.
FLT3-ITD DNA allelic burden, but not mRNA levels, influences the biological characteristics of AML patients
Authors: Soare Dan S. , Radu Eugen , Dumitru Ion , Arghir Aurora , Enache Cristina , Bumbea Horia , Vlădăreanu Ana M. 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3 gene internal tandem (FLT3-ITD) mutations represent one of the most frequent genetic lesions in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and imparts a negative prognostic. For an optimal patient management, current clinical guidelines recommend the evaluation of the allelic ratio (AR), expressed as the DNA FLT3-ITD/WT mutational burden. We sought to evaluate the differences between the AR and FLT3-ITD/WT mRNA ratio (RR) and their respective impact on the biological characteristics of AML patients. A total of 32 DNA and mRNA samples from AML patients with FLT3-ITD were evaluated. There was a good correlation between the AR and RR (Spearman’s rho= 0.652, P <0.001). None of the biological characteristics were influenced by the RR values, whereas patients with high AR values (≥0.5) had higher WBC counts (Mann-Whitney, P= 0.01), LDH levels (Mann-Whitney, P= 0.037), and circulating blasts levels (Mann-Whitney, P= 0.023) than patients with low AR values (<0.5). Also, there was a good correlation between AR values and WBC count (Spearman’s correlation, P= 0.001), and LDH levels (Spearman’s correlation, P= 0.007). In our study population the AR, but not the RR, influenced the biological characteristic of patients suggesting a dose-independent effect of FLT3-ITD mutations.
Complex Oil-containing Waste Treatment by Applying Solar Energy
Authors: Abdibattayeva Мaral , Bissenov Kylyshbay , Zhubandykova Zheniskul , Orynbassar Raigul , Tastanova Lyazzat 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
The article describes in detail the complex oil-containing waste treatment by applying solar energy. The developed Helio devices are equipped with concentrating elements to extract oil in the purification of dump oil. The questions of practical application of pre-treated oil-contaminated soils and oil sludge to strengthen road surfaces are considered. The results of the experimental study on the production of soil concrete is based on oily dump. The structures of the soil concrete made on the basis of oil-contaminated soils and oil sludge are investigated and relevant proposals are made.
Alternative “Green” Antimicrobial Agents Obtained by Selective Sorption from Lactobacillus plantarum Culture
Authors: Riabinin Georgii , Abd El-Aty A. M. , Blumberga Dagnija , Baranenko Denis 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
According to the world health organization report from September 2016, the development of pathogenic bacteria resistance to antimicrobial drugs is one of the most important problems of the modern medicine. In this regard, the urgent task is the search for alternative antibiotics for the treatment of bacterial infections. One approach to solving this problem is obtaining antimicrobial compounds synthesized by probiotic lactic acid bacteria. The probiotic strain of Lactobacillus plantarum 8P-A3, was chosen to study its antimicrobial action. This strain produces at least two bacteriocins – plantaricin EF and plantaricin NC8. The chromatographic isolation of peptide fractions from the supernatant was carried out using a polymer sorbent based on methacrylic acid and ethyleneglycol dimethacrylate. Optimal parameters for chromatographic process were determined. It is shown that all the target biologically active substances were bound with the sorbent in sorption at acidic pH values. Elution was performed in isocratic mode. The antimicrobial activity of the obtained peptide fractions against indicator culture was determined by turbidimetric method. During incubation process, the turbidity of the microbial suspension was determined by measuring the optical density at λ = 600 nm. It is revealed that the fraction obtained at rinse by eluent with pH 8 has the maximum inhibitory ability. Сhromatomass-spectrometry analysis of the peptide fraction was carried out using Shimadzu LCMS-8040.The antimicrobial activity of the fraction is comparable to the action of ampicillin against gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli. To confirm the peptide nature of the antimicrobial activity of the fraction, an indicator culture was incubated with the fraction treated with proteolytic enzymes (trypsin). It is determined the fraction can be stored at −18 °C and saves antimicrobial properties after defrosting.