Test Parameters Research Articles

A phase field finite element study and evaluation of sulfide stress cracking in DCB specimen testing

The challenges presented by sour environments rich in hydrogen sulfide (H2S) underscore the necessity for a comprehensive understanding of material behavior under such conditions. The cracking susceptibility of metals and alloys used for subsurface equipment in downhole oil and gas exploration operations is particularly concerning. The NACE Double Cantilever Beam (DCB) test has emerged as a widely used quality assurance tool in the petroleum industry, leveraging fracture mechanics principles to assess the environment-assisted cracking (EAC) resistance of metals and alloys. The DCB test evaluates the fracture toughness KISSC of materials in H2S-containing environments via assessment of the crack arrest, which serves as a vital parameter in structural integrity assessments to mitigate the risk of service-related failures from sulfide stress cracking (SSC). However, various studies suggest that different test parameters, such as arm displacement and initial notch, significantly influence KISSC. This work presents a detailed numerical investigation on a comprehensive simulation of the DCB test, examining the effects of different test parameters on KISSC prediction. A coupled deformation-diffusion phase field framework is adopted to simulate SSC in DCB specimens arising from a complex interplay between material deformation, hydrogen diffusion, and fracture. The numerical results show good agreement with experimental results reported in the literature and provide deeper insights into the factors affecting crack growth and arrest in DCB testing.

Effect of test related factors on the degradation of cement-based materials on acetic acid exposure

Abstract Exposure of concrete to various acids can hardly be overstated due to the widespread use of concrete in the construction industry. The effect of selected factors on the degradation of ordinary Portland cement (OPC 53 grade) paste and mortar exposed to acetic acid is investigated in this paper. Various test parameters such as mass loss, loss in cross-sectional area, relative dynamic elastic modulus (RDEM), loss in flexural and compressive strength are used to assess the selected factors and the results obtained are analysed to determine the most favourable test conditions for degradation, that can be adopted for developing an accelerated test method. The factors used for the investigation are replenishment of acid solution, concentration of acid solution, ratio of surface area of specimen to volume of liquid acid solution (S/L), shape of the specimen and nature of the specimen. This paper also investigates the interrelationships among test parameters and adopts interpretation of acid consumption to assess the aggressiveness of the acid solution. It was found that renewing conditions and high concentrations of acid solution (0.5 M) indicate rapid degradation. The aggressiveness of 0.125 M acetic acid solutions in renewing conditions is about 5 times that of non-renewing conditions respectively. The rate of degradation is inversely related to S/L ratio. Cylindrical specimens have a marginal increase in degradation than prismatic specimens. It is preferable to evaluate acid attack on mortar specimens rather than paste specimens due to higher loss in cross-sectional area and relative dynamic elastic modulus (RDEM).

Dynamics and prognostic repeatability of qualitative and quantitative blood characteristics in patients with new coronavirus infection

The study presents the possibility of using clinical blood test indicators characterizing the red hematopoietic germ in diagnosing the severity of the clinical condition of patients with COVID-19.Aim: Dynamic monitoring of changes in the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of erythrocytes and reticulocytes to identify parameters that characterize the severe course of a new coronavirus infection in patients with cardiovascular pathology.Material and Methods. The study included 94 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of a novel coronavirus infection (NCI), hospitalized in the department for the treatment of patients with CVD and COVID-19 with intensive care unit on the basis of the Academician L.S. Barbarasha between February and March 2022. Clinical blood analysis was performed on the 1st, 3rd and 7th day of hospitalization. Whole blood with K2EDTA was studied on a Sysmex XN-1000 hematological analyzer.Results. To determine the diagnostically significant indicators of a clinical blood test, patients were divided into 2 comparison groups: group 1 – 71 people with a mild infection, group 2 – 23 people with moderate, severe and extremely severe NCI. On the first day of observation, 70% of patients in the group of unfavorable course were diagnosed with anemia, while in the group of mild course, 38% of patients were diagnosed. In patients with unfavorable development of the disease, normoblastemia was observed, which, according to the results of regression analysis, increased the risk of an unfavorable course by 5 times OR 0.24 (95% CI 0.07–0.884). Also in the severe group, there was a decrease in hemoglobin saturation of reticulocytes, which was expressed in deficient Ret-He and negative Delta-Hb values. Using binary logistic regression, it was found that a negative Delta-Hb 6 times increases the risk of an unfavorable course of NCI, OR 6.18 (95% CI 1.971–19.3).Conclusion. The parameters of a clinical blood test that characterize the hemoglobinization of reticulocytes reflect the severity of the course of a new coronavirus infection and can be used to assess the clinical condition of patients with this infection.

Kindling Models of Epileptogenesis for Developing Disease-Modifying Drugs for Epilepsy.

Kindling models are widely used animal models to study the pathobiology of epilepsy and epileptogenesis. These models exhibit distinctive features whereby sub-threshold stimuli instigate the initial induction of brief focal seizures. Over time, the severity and duration of these seizures progressively increase, leading to a fully epileptic state, which is marked by consistent development of generalized tonic-clonic seizures. Kindling involves focal stimulation via implanted depth electrodes or repeated administration of chemoconvulsants such as pentylenetetrazol. Comparative analysis of preclinical and clinical findings has confirmed a high predictive validity of fully kindled animals for testing novel antiseizure medications. Thus, kindling models remain an essential component of anticonvulsant drug development programs. This article provides a comprehensive guide to working protocols, testing of therapeutic drugs, outcome parameters, troubleshooting, and data analysis for various electrical and chemical kindling epileptogenesis models for new therapeutic development and optimization. The use of pharmacological agents or genetically modified mice in kindling experiments is valuable, offering insights into the impact of a specific target on various aspects of seizures, including thresholds, initiation, spread, termination, and the generation of a hyperexcitable network. These kindling epileptogenesis paradigms are helpful in identifying mechanisms and disease-modifying interventions for epilepsy. © 2024 The Author(s). Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: Hippocampal kindling Basic Protocol 2: Amygdala kindling Basic Protocol 3: Rapid hippocampal kindling Basic Protocol 4: Chemical kindling.

The Impact of Traditional Chinese Herbal Decoctions Combined with Rehabilitation Therapy on Pulmonary Function and Respiratory Muscle Strength in COVID-19 Recovery Patients.

This study aims to evaluate the clinical efficacy of integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine rehabilitation treatment during the recovery period of COVID-19, providing a scientific basis for developing more effective rehabilitation protocols. The study included 120 COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) recovery patients treated at our hospital from November 2021 to April 2022. After registration, patients were randomly divided into two groups, namely the study group and the control group. The control group received conventional rehabilitation treatment, while the study group underwent integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine rehabilitation treatment, with 60 cases in each group. The clinical observation indicators in this study include the results of the 6-minute walk test (6MWT), respiratory and circulatory parameters, pulmonary function, changes in respiratory muscle strength, and quality of life in both groups of patients. The 6MWT distance increased significantly in both groups, with the study group showing a larger improvement (P < 0.05). SpO2 and PaO2 values improved significantly in both groups, with greater increases in the study group (P < 0.05). Lung function parameters (FEV1 and FEV1/FVC) improved significantly in the study group compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Diaphragmatic thickness and mobility were also significantly higher in the study group (P < 0.05). The SF-36 quality of life scores were significantly better in the study group (P < 0.05). Integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine rehabilitation treatment has achieved significant efficacy during the recovery period of COVID-19. The complementary use of traditional Chinese medicine's differential diagnosis and treatment and modern medical approaches from Western medicine provides patients with comprehensive and personalized rehabilitation services, offering new ideas and methods to improve the quality of patient recovery.

The ventilatory efficiency parameters outperform peak oxygen consumption in monitoring the therapy effects in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

AimWe sought the cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) parameter that most accurately reflected therapeutic efficacy in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). MethodsWell-being questionnaire, N-terminal brain natriuretic peptide measurements, echocardiography, and CPET were performed in patients with symptomatic non-obstructive HCM during phase II, randomized, open-label multicentre study, before and after 16 weeks of traditional or sacubitril/valsartan treatment. Patients were followed 36 months after the initial CPET. Primary endpoints were changes in: 1) peak oxygen consumption (VO2); 2) VO2 at anaerobic threshold (AT); 3) oxygen pulse; 4) minute ventilation (VE)/carbon-dioxide (CO2) production slope; 5) VE/VCO2 at AT (VE/VCO2_AT); 6) VE/VCO2 nadir; 7) VE/VCO2 intercept; and 8) partial end-tidal pressure of carbon-dioxide (PETCO2) change during CPET. ResultsOf 115 screened patients, 61 (52 ± 14 years, 43 % women) were included. Within subject therapy effects were detected only by the VE/VCO2 intercept and PETCO2 change, whereas the differences between medical regimens were detected by differences in VE/VCO2 nadir and VE/VCO2_AT changes after the treatment. The best predictors of the change in well-being were left ventricular outflow tract maximal gradient and VE/VCO2 intercept (B = 0.41,0.36; SE = 0.16,0.30; CI = 0.14–0.79, 0.15–1.14; p = 0.006,0.016, respectively). Adverse cardiac events were best predicted by the initial VE/VCO2 nadir. ConclusionVentilatory efficiency parameters outperform peak VO2 in gauging therapy effects in patients with HCM.

Comparative outcomes of selective laser trabeculoplasty delivered by optometrists compared with ophthalmologists: a UK-based multicentre observational study

BackgroundSelective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT), a National Institute for Care and Health Excellence recommended first-line treatment for open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension, is increasingly delivered by optometrists. This retrospective multicentre observational...

Remineralizing capacity of zinc oxide eugenol sealer following the addition of nanohydroxyapatite-tyrosine amino acid: An in vivo animal study

ObjectiveAlthough several sealers have been developed, the zinc oxide eugenol (ZOE) sealer is still used in many private dental clinics. This study aimed to compare the biocompatibility and remineralizing capacity οf ZOE sealer with the addition of nanohydroxyapatite-tyrosine amino acid. MethodsThis study was conducted on Twenty rabbits. The rabbits were divided into four groups based on the test observation period (3, 7, 21, and 28 days) following surgical implantation. General anesthesia was administered to each rabbit, and a subcutaneous incision of approximately 1±0.5 cm was made along the symphyseal area of the mandible of each rabbit. Four bone cavities were generated in the interdental space of the lower jaw between the central and molar teeth of each rabbit, with one longitudinal subcutaneous incision. The ZOE sealers were mixed according to the manufacturer's guidelines and directly inserted within the cavities generated at the end of each test period. The animals were sacrificed, and bone biopsy was carried out at the site of testing. The biopsy samples were obtained and subjected to histological analysis using a low-power light microscope (Olympus C ⅹ 21, Japan) and immunohistochemistry using Ki67 antibody. ResultsThe collected information was examined by parametric statistical tests using SPSS software version ‘‘22.” One-way ANOVA and post-hoc Duncan’s tests were used to measure the significance among various groups, with statistical significance set, when “P≤0.01”. ConclusionThe 20% mixed endodontic sealer displayed excellent outcomes compared to other experimental groups, as identified by higher new bone formation at every evaluation period.

Advanced surrogate model for electron-scale turbulence in tokamak pedestals

We derive an advanced surrogate model for predicting turbulent transport at the edge of tokamaks driven by electron temperature gradient (ETG) modes. Our derivation is based on a recently developed sensitivity-driven sparse grid interpolation approach for uncertainty quantification and sensitivity analysis at scale, which informs the set of parameters that define the surrogate model as a scaling law. Our model reveals that ETG-driven electron heat flux is influenced by the safety factor $q$ , electron beta $\beta _e$ and normalized electron Debye length $\lambda _D$ , in addition to well-established parameters such as the electron temperature and density gradients. To assess the trustworthiness of our model's predictions beyond training, we compute prediction intervals using bootstrapping. The surrogate model's predictive power is tested across a wide range of parameter values, including within-distribution testing parameters (to verify our model) as well as out-of-bounds and out-of-distribution testing (to validate the proposed model). Overall, validation efforts show that our model competes well with, or can even outperform, existing scaling laws in predicting ETG-driven transport.

Group resistances of tensile-loaded anchored-bolted connections with CFST columns: Tests, simulations, and theoretical models

The performance of the connections in concrete-filled steel tubular (CFST) columns fabricated with a group of two anchored blind-bolts under tensile forces is evaluated. Based on the bolt group arrangement, two sets of experiments, comprising eight full-scale specimens, were tested. Test parameters include the presence of concrete, bolt anchorage length, pitch distance, and gauge distance. Further, numerical models were developed, which, after validation, were used for parametric studies. Key findings indicate that bolt gauge distance, anchorage length, concrete grade, and column cross-section slenderness significantly influence the connection behaviour, but pitch distance has the least influence. Tube and concrete failure modes, as well as critical gauge and pitch distances, are identified, which govern tube deformation and concrete crushing zones. Finally, a bi-linear theoretical model is developed that can provide a fair prediction of the connection strength and stiffness.

Evaluating the clinical performance of an updated microRNA classifier in indeterminate and RAS-mutated thyroid nodule management: A multi-institutional study

BackgroundIntegrating microRNA markers with next-generation sequencing panels may enhance risk assessment of cytologically indeterminate thyroid nodules. The ThyGeNEXT–ThyraMIRv1 multiplatform test version 1 demonstrated limited utility in risk-stratifying RAS-mutated indeterminate thyroid nodules. We sought to validate the updated ThyraMIRv2 platform in clinical practice. MethodsThyGeNEXT/ThyraMIRv2, a 3-tiered microRNA classifier, were evaluated using a previously studied multi-institutional cohort of Bethesda III/IV nodules, with positive results having risk of malignancy ≥10%. In addition, ThyraMIRv2's clinical utility in RAS-mutated indeterminate thyroid nodules was assessed. ResultsIn 366 indeterminate thyroid nodules, ThyraMIRv2 platform yielded a 30.3% positive-call rate. ThyraMIRv2 platform + nodules had greater operative rates (63.9% vs 36.1%, P < .0001) and cancer/noninvasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary-like nuclear features diagnosis (65.9% vs 25.0%, P < .0001) than ThyraMIRv2 platform nodules. Compared with multiplatform test version 1, ThyraMIRv2 platform’s diagnostic testing parameters did not improve significantly. Among 68 RAS-mutated nodules, ThyraMIRv2 classified 36.8%, 55.9%, and 7.4% as positive, moderate, and negative, respectively. All moderate nodules had risk of malignancy ≥10% and were combined with the positive cohort. No significant differences existed in operative rate (81.0% vs 60.0%, P = .272) or cancer/noninvasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary-like nuclear features diagnosis (47.6% vs 40.0%, P > .999) between RAS-mutated positive/moderate and negative groups. For RAS-mutated nodules, ThyraMIRv2 demonstrated improved sensitivity (93.8% vs 64.7, P = .003) and decreased specificity (4.5% vs 34.8%, P = .008) compared with ThyGeNEXT–ThyraMIRv1 multiplatform test version 1, with comparable negative predictive value (33.3% vs 40.0%, P = .731) and positive predictive value (58.8% vs 59.5%, P = .864). ConclusionThyraMIRv2 platform does not improve indeterminate thyroid nodule malignancy stratification compared to ThyGeNEXT–ThyraMIRv1 multiplatform test version 1. ThyraMIRv2 improves malignant RAS-mutated nodule detection but increases false positives. Future studies encompassing a larger cohort of RAS-mutated with surgical pathology results are warranted to better characterize the performance parameters of this classifier.

Microstructural evaluation and optimization of wear behaviour of vacuum arc melted AlFeCrNiSi high entropy alloy

High-entropy alloys (HEA) are equiatomic, multi-element systems that, while having several elements with various crystal geometries to form a single phase. In this study, a novel equiatomic AlFeCrNiSi HEA is prepared using the vacuum arc melting process. The resulting microstructure featured dendritic and inter-dendritic structures with formations of intermetallic compounds such as Al₃Fe₂Si, NiAl, and AlCrNi phases. EDS analysis confirmed the presence of alloying elements and EBSD analysis revealed refined grains with an average size of 1 ± 0.15 µm size. Pin-on-Disc wear test with varying test parameters is conducted to optimize the wear parameters. Signal-to-noise ratio and analysis of variance identified the most significant wear parameters, with load being the most influential, followed by sliding distance and velocity. The wear rate is minimum at the lowest conditions of applied load, sliding distance, and sliding velocity. The improved microhardness also contributed to the improved wear resistance of the cast alloy. The subsequent worn morphology revealed the formation of grooves, microcracks, and oxide layers on the worn surface.

A Critical Review on the Factors Affecting the Bond Strength of Direct Restorative Material Alternatives to Amalgam.

This article comprehensively reviews the performance of simplified direct restorative materials that have the potential to be an alternative to amalgam. Following an understanding of the material structures and clinical performances, this review provides an analysis of the bonding mechanisms and influential factors on the bond strength. These factors include substrate-related variations, involving primary vs. permanent dentin, sound- vs. caries-affected/demineralized dentin comparisons and surface-related factors and pretreatments. Special attention is given to the factors changing the substrate surface, such as different contaminants, remedy methods after contamination and different conditioning methods related to the materials. Variations in sample preparation and bond strength test parameters are also evaluated for the analysis of the outcomes. This review aims to provide an overview of the factors involved in the application procedure of direct restorations together with in vitro testing variations to guide the selection of suitable materials by understanding strengths and shortcomings.

Building shape optimization based on interconnected embodied and operational energy and carbon impacts

Strategic building design decisions informed by a comprehensive life cycle impact assessment hold substantial potential in addressing global energy consumption and carbon emissions, with buildings accounting for 40% of energy consumption and 37% of emissions. While building operational energy (OE) has traditionally received greater attention, the dynamic trade-offs between OE and embodied energy (EE) in building design are often overlooked. Design decisions, such material selection and building shape, can present conflicting considerations between OE and EE. Addressing these impacts in isolation may fail to achieve comprehensive reductions in energy consumption and carbon emissions. This study highlights the necessity of a holistic approach to design decisions such as building shape and material selection, emphasizing the importance of considering both OE and EE simultaneously. Our literature review confirms a gap in studies that consider these factors together in the context of building shape optimization. To analyze the interconnectivity of building shape design, material choice, and the trade-offs between OE and EE, we devised two parametric test cases with identical features but using two different insulation materials: hemp-based and glass wool. The analysis allows us to (1) evaluate the impact of integrating total lifecycle impact on building shape design optimization, in comparison to designs that focus solely on OE; (2) assess how the selection of materials, specifically hemp-based versus glass wool insulation, influences optimized building shape and carbon emissions reduction; and explore the benefits of bio-based materials by analyzing performance variations in the two insulations case studies. Our findings reveal that although OE typically has a larger impact over a building’s lifetime, the optimal building shape can still vary significantly based on the EE contribution. The benefit of bio-based material is context-dependent, varying with factors such as the building shape discussed in this paper, as well as other factors such as climate. In our test cases, we observed that shape variations resulted in up to a 17.9% change in OE due to different building shapes, and a 60.7% variation in the envelope’s surface area, while the building area remained unchanged. This expanded understanding will facilitate more informed and sustainable decision-making in the construction and design industries, addressing the often-overlooked interconnectivity of OE and EE.

The Effect of Conflict Management Strategies on Job Satisfaction: A Study in the Accounting Sector

The aim of this study is to examine the effect of conflict management on job satisfaction for the accounting sectorand to examine the effect between the conflict management strategies used by employees and their job satisfaction. Also, demographic characteristics are to contribute to the related literature by examining the effect of job satisfaction, conflict management, and conflict management strategies. In this study, survey research method and relational screening model were used. Then, e-survey was applied to 451 accounting professionals through convenience sampling among approximately 200.000 accounting sector employees operating in Turkey and 403 questionnaires were analysed. The factor loadings of the scales were examined, followed by reliability and normal distribution analyses of the relevant scales and then parametric tests were performed. Pearson correlation analysis and regression analysis were performed to examine the relationship between constructive, adaptive, coercive, avoidant and compromising subscales of job satisfaction scale and conflict management strategy scale. According to the results, conflict management has a positive effect on job satisfaction. Also, constructive, accommodative, compromise, avoidant and coercive conflict management strategies were also found to have a positive effect on job satisfaction. When demographic characteristics were analysed, it was found that there was no significant difference between gender, marital status, age, education level variables and job satisfaction, conflict management, adaptive, constructive, coercive, avoidant and accommodative conflict management strategies. It was observed that there was a significant difference between the professional experience variable and compatible conflict management strategy, also between the occupation variable and coercive conflict management strategy.

Social Capital Elevates Courtesy Take into Consideration Teaching-Learning Process in Secondary Schools

Social capital which is also known as relational capital plays very significant role in enhancing education by fostering innovations in educational institutions. Social capital encompasses the relationships and networks which facilitate knowledge sharing, collaboration, and community engagement which are essential for teaching learning process. The existence of productive social capital among the stake holders promotes civility which leads towards imparting quality education to the learners. The main aim of this study is to highlight the importance of social capital in educational institutes. The data for the current study has been collected from a sample size of target population of secondary school teachers in Tehsil Wari, Dir Upper, Pakistan. The study is quantitative in nature as close-ended questionnaire comprising of 33 items covering six dimensions of social capital and teaching learning process with a five point Likert Scale is used for data collection. The validity and reliability of this survey instrument has been ensured by following predetermined principles, like sending for validation to four experts in the field, and checking the value of Cronbach’s alpha. The collected data has been analyzed by using SPSS-22. Descriptive statistics highlights that data is normally distributed therefore parametric tests like Pearson Correlation has been used to determine the relationship between social capital and teaching learning process. The results provide evidence that there is a high, positive and significant correlation between social capital and teaching-learning process. From results it is concluded that for effective teaching-learning process, the existence of social capital in educational institute is of paramount importance. The study recommends that there is need for further research as to explore antecedent variables affecting the co-existence of social capital and teaching-learning process.

Experimental study on pore structures and mechanical properties of ferroaluminate cement under sulfate attack

Ferroaluminate cement (FAC) emerges as a special cement with outstanding durability, offering promising applications. However, the resistance to sulfate attack of FAC remains inadequately understood. In this paper, the impact of sulfate attack on the pore structure of FAC concrete is explored through nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) tests from a microscopic perspective. Meanwhile, the macroscopic mechanical characteristics of concrete attacked by sulfate are investigated under different loading conditions, including splitting tensile and conventional triaxial compression. NMR test analysis shows that as the degree of erosion increases, the number of mesopores and macropores in FAC concrete decreases while the number of micropores increases. The changes in pore structure distribution alter the mechanical response of specimens. The discussion of strength characteristics, deformation behavior, and energy parameters in conventional triaxial tests reveals that FAC concrete attacked by sulfate exhibits superior mechanical properties under confining pressure. Uniaxial strength results indicate that sulfate attack has less impact on specimens under tensile stress state than under compression. Based on the experimental findings, this paper introduces a sulfate attack impact factor to capture the uniaxial strength changes. Further, a multiaxial strength criterion is developed to describe the strength properties of sulfate-attacked concrete under triaxial stress conditions.

Albumin adjuvant therapy for acute ischemic stroke with large vessel occlusion (AMASS-LVO): rationale, design, and protocol for a phase 1, open-label, clinical trial.

Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is an acute brain injury caused by sudden occlusion of a blood vessel. Endovascular therapy is the most effective way to restore blood flow. However, despite the restoration of blood flow in some patients, their clinical prognosis often remains unsatisfactory. Albumin has shown neuroprotective effects in animal models of AIS. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the safety, feasibility, and efficacy of local arterial infusions of 20% human serum albumin solution as an adjuvant therapy after endovascular therapy in patients with AIS. This study is a prospective, therapeutic exploratory, non-randomized, open-label, phase 1 clinical trial testing the use of 20% human serum albumin solution injected via the artery immediately after successful reperfusion in patients with AIS. The study is divided into two stages. In the first stage, a single-dose-finding will explore the maximum safe dose according to the 3 + 3 dose escalation principle;, with the maximum dose being 0.60 g/kg. After recanalizing the occluded blood vessel, human serum albumin solution will be injected into the internal carotid artery region through a guiding catheter for 30 min. The second stage involves an albumin adjuvant therapy cohort (AT) and an endovascular treatment lonely cohort (ET). The AT cohort will encompass at least 15 additional participants to complete safety trials at the maximum safe dose determined in the first stage. The ET cohort will include well-matched patients receiving endovascular therapy alone, derived from a contemporaneous prospective registry, who will be excluded from having cardiopulmonary disorders and from receiving any neuroprotective therapy. The primary outcome of this study will be symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage. Efficacy outcomes will include the proportion of patients with the progression of cerebral infarction volume, a modified Rankin Scale of 0-2 on day 90 after randomization. An exploratory secondary outcome will be the analysis of thromboinflammatory and neuroprotective molecule profiles. This pilot trial aims to explore the safety and efficacy of arterial infusion of an albumin solution after occlusive vessel opening in AIS. The results will provide data parameters for subsequent tests on the arterial infusion of albumin solutions. ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05953623.

Comparison of the Torsional Strength of Material Samples Made Using Selected Rapid Prototyping Methods

In recent years, there has been a marked increase in the use of rapid prototyping techniques that support industrial processes. The analysis of studies on strength tests of parts manufactured using additive techniques from model materials and hybrid composites usually includes tests of material and strength parameters based on uniaxial tension, bending, and compression tests. For elements manufactured from polymeric materials using traditional methods (e.g. injection moulding), data obtained from these tests are sufficient to determine the strength of the material and to apply the results in the product design process. In the case of the layered extrusion method, due to the model construction process, strength data based on standard samples do not have a direct transposition on the strength of machine parts operating under various load ranges, especially torsional loads. The publication presents the results of tests on the torsional strength of cylindrical samples with splines produced by layered extrusion, vacuum casting technology, and hybrid technology, which combines both technologies. The test samples were made using a Prusa i3 MK3 3D printer and the plasticised plastic modelling (fused filament fabrication, FFF) method, while PolyJet technology was used to create a reference model. The findings indicate that hybrid technology, in which a thin-walled mould is filled with a chemically hardened polymer, achieves the desired strength for the manufactured parts while maintaining dimensional accuracy and shape. The research results show that producing rotating elements using the hybrid technology reduces the sample core’s ability to undergo plastic deformation due to the adhesion between the materials and the occurrence of notches resulting from the model production process using the layered extrusion method.

The Monocyte-to-Lymphocyte Ratio Was Associated With Intraplaque Neovascularization of the Carotid Artery on AngioPLUS.

The monocyte-lymphocyte ratio (MLR) is a hematological test parameter that reflects the status of both monocytes and lymphocytes as inflammatory cells. This study aims to investigate the relationship between MLR and carotid intraplaque neovascularization (IPN) in patients with asymptomatic carotid stenosis. We performed the Angio Planewave Ultrasensitive (AngioPLUS) screening for patients with carotid plaques. The carotid plaque stability was evaluated by semiquantitative visual grading of carotid IPN. Binary logistic regression models were performed to determine the associations between different clinical and laboratory indicators and the presence of high IPN. A total of 160 patients were eventually enrolled with 99 in the low IPN group (Scores 0-1) and 61 in the high IPN group (Score 2). Univariate logistic regression showed that age, monocytes, lymphocytes, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fibrinogen, d-dimmer, and MLR were significantly associated with the presence of high IPN (all p<0.05). Multivariate logistic regression models showed that MLR was significantly associated with the presence of high IPN after adjusting for other covariates. An MLR value of 32.9 was the optimal cutoff value to differentiate high and low IPN. High MLR was also significantly correlated with the presence of high IPN (odds ratio [OR]=4.08, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.69-9.88, p=0.002) when included in the above multivariate logistic regression model. Elevated MLR is closely associated with the presence of high IPN and may serve as a surrogate biomarker for carotid IPN.