Percentage Of Defects Research Articles

Quantifying Spatial Distribution of Ventilation Defects in Multiple Pulmonary Diseases With Hyperpolarized 129Xenon MRI.

Hyperpolarized 129Xe MRI assesses lung ventilation, often using the ventilation defect percentage (VDP). Unlike VDP, defect distribution index (DDI) quantifies spatial clustering of defects. To quantify spatial distribution of 129Xe ventilation defects using DDI across pulmonary diseases. Retrospective. Four hundred twenty-one subjects (age = 23.1 ± 17.1, female = 230), comprising healthy controls (N = 60) and subjects with obstructive conditions (asthma [N = 25], bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome [BOS, N = 18], cystic fibrosis [CF, N = 90], lymphangioleiomyomatosis [LAM, N = 50]), restrictive conditions (bleomycin-treated cancer survivors [BLEO, N = 14]; fibrotic lung diseases [FLD, N = 92]), bone marrow transplantation (BMT, N = 53), and bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD, N = 19). 3 T, two-dimensional multi-slice gradient echo. Whole-lung mean DDI was extracted from DDI maps; correlated with VDP (percent of pixels <60% of whole-lung mean signal intensity) and pulmonary function tests (PFTs) including FEV1, FVC, and FEV1/FVC. DDI and DDI/VDP, a marker of defect clustering, were compared across diseases. Pearson correlation analysis and Kruskal-Wallis tests. P < 0.0056 for disease groups, P < 0.0125 for categories. DDI was significantly elevated in BMT (8.3 ± 11.5), BOS (30.1 ± 57.5), BPD (16.0 ± 46.8), CF (15.4 ± 27.2), and LAM (12.6 ± 34.2) compared to controls (1.8 ± 3.1). DDI correlated significantly with VDP in all groups (r ≥ 0.56) except BLEO, and with PFTs in CF, FLD, and LAM (r ≥ 0.56). Obstructive groups had significantly higher mean DDI (14.0 ± 32.0) than controls (1.8 ± 3.0) and restrictive groups (4.0 ± 12.0). DDI/VDP was significantly lower in the restrictive group (0.6 ± 0.6) than controls (0.8 ± 0.6) and obstructive group (1.0 ± 1.0). DDI may provide insights into the distribution of ventilation defects across diseases. 3 TECHNICAL EFFICACY: Stage 2.

LSTM-based framework for predicting point defect percentage in semiconductor materials using simulated XRD patterns

In this paper, we present a machine learning-based approach that leverages Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks combined with a sliding window technique for feature extraction, aimed at accurately predicting point defect percentages in semiconductor materials based on simulated X-ray Diffraction (XRD) data. The model was initially trained on silicon-simulated XRD data with defect percentages ranging from 1 to 5%, enabling it to predict defect percentages from 0 to 10% in silicon and other semiconductor materials, including AlAs, CdS, GaAs, Ge, and ZnS. Through extensive experimentation, we explored different sequence lengths and LSTM units, identifying the optimal configuration as a sequence length of 3501 and 4500 units, which yielded the best results. The model’s mean absolute error at 4500 units was 0.021, the lowest among the LSTM configurations tested. The sliding window technique plays a crucial role in capturing temporal dependencies within the XRD data, allowing the model to generalize to other semiconductor materials. Additionally, we observed that increasing defect percentages consistently led to a rise in background intensity. We further examined the relationship between crystal structure and defect precentage predictions, uncovering consistent trends for materials with Diamond Cubic and Zinc Blende structures. This LSTM-based method offers a novel approach to predicting defect percentages using simulated XRD patterns of materials.

PREVALENCE AND QUALITY OF RESTORATIVE STRUCTURES OF PERMANENT TEETH IN CHILDREN FROM LOWLAND AND MOUNTAINOUS AREAS OF THE TRANSCARPATHIAN REGION OVER THE COURSE OF OBSERVATION

Introduction: Treatment of invasive forms of caries involves the removal of demineralized hard tooth tissues and the restoration of anatomical integrity using various types of restorative materials. The choice and conditions of use of these materials have clear indications. However, the durability of restorative structures, even with strict adherence to the algorithm, is not always sufficient, especially among children living in areas with biogeochemical deficiencies. Objectives: The aim of this study was to analyze the prevalence of fillings made from different restorative materials in the permanent teeth of children living in lowland and mountainous geographical areas of the Transcarpathian region and to determine the percentage of defects in restorative structures over time. Methods: For the analysis, 525 medical records of dental patients (form 043) from two geographical areas of the Transcarpathian region were selected, specifically from Uzhhorod, University Dental Clinic LLC, and Rakhiv, the dental office of the Rakhiv District Hospital. The period of dental treatment covered was from 2018 to 2022. Paraclinical content analysis was performed to determine the number of direct and indirect restorative structures and to assess the occurrence of defects and their loss at 6 and 12 months post-treatment. Statistical probabilities and errors were determined using the computer program STATISTICA 6.1. Results. The rates of patient visits for the restoration of indirect restorations of permanent teeth in children living in the mountainous zone differ from those in children from the lowland zone of residence significantly after 6 months (4.0%; 2.1%; p&lt;0.05), and not significantly after 12 months (10.0%; 10.5%; p&gt;0.05). Comparing the incidence of defects, impaired fixation, or loss of various types of restorative structures in permanent teeth in children living in lowland and mountainous areas of the Transcarpathian region, it was found that the most common defects or loss of fillings made of glass ionomer cements occurred both after 6 and 12 months. The percentage distribution of the appearance of defects or loss of restorative structures made in the permanent teeth of children living in the mountainous zone from glass ionomer cements, light-curing composites on indirect restorations is 6 months (7.2%, 6.0%, 4.0%, p&gt;0.05) and 12 months (16.3%, 11.1%, 10.0%, p&gt;0.05). The differences are not significant. In the permanent teeth of children living in the low-lying area, the percentage of defects or loss of restorative structures made of glass ionomer cements, light-curing composites on indirect restorations is 6 months (6.7%, 4.4%, 2.1%, p&lt;0.05) and 12 months (20.0%, 9.6%, 10.5%, p&lt;0.05). The differences are significant. Conclusions: Thus, when comparing the percentage of defects in various restorative structures and their loss in the permanent teeth of children living in the lowland and mountainous areas of the Transcarpathian region, no significant differences were found. Specifically, for glass ionomer cements, the defect percentages were 6.7% and 7.2% after 6 months (p &gt; 0.05) and 20.0% and 16.3% after 12 months (p &gt; 0.05). For direct composite restorations, the defect percentages were 4.4% and 6.0% after 6 months (p &gt; 0.05) and 9.6% and 11.1% after 12 months (p &gt; 0.05). For indirect composite restorations, the defect percentages were 2.1% and 4.0% after 6 months (p &gt; 0.05) and 10.5% and 10.0% after 12 months (p &gt; 0.05). This indicates that the differences in the percentage of defects between the lowland and mountain zones are not statistically significant for any of the types of restorative structures during the specified periods.

Computer aided diagnoses for detecting the severity of Keratoconus

Abstract Problem Corneal topography instruments have limited parameter constraints for calculating precise defect ratios on the basis of the cone base area of the anterior axial curvature map for patients with Keratoconus (KC). Aim The aim of this study is to use thresholding-based segmentation and morphological techniques to calculate the pathological ratio of the keratoconic cornea through cone base area extraction for the detection of KC severity and tracking of disease development. Methods Data were collected from February 2022 to March 2023, comprising 97 cases from private clinics in southern Iraq. Disease severity was categorized into three stages, namely, mild, moderate, and severe, according to the topographic KC classification by a senior ophthalmologist. The Galilei system was used in obtaining the corneal topography images. The study proposed an image analysis method for corneal topography images using MATLAB R2020a. The method had four main steps: preprocessing, image segmentation, morphological processing, and pathological ratio calculation. Moreover, pathological ratio was compared with the KC severity through statistical analysis. A P-value less than 0.05 indicated statistically significant results. Results The majority of the cases in the mild category had a pathological ratio of ≤20%, and the moderate category had a higher prevalence ranging from 21 to 40%. The severe category had the highest distribution (&lt;40%). A P-value of &lt;0.001 indicated significant and clear link between KC stages and pathologic ratio. Conclusion The algorithm used for extracting the cone base area of the keratoconic cornea at different stages was validated by an ophthalmic specialist to ensure that the cone base area was appropriately extracted. The findings may help ophthalmologists to make informed decisions for patients with severe KC and assessments based on the percentage of corneal defects.

Influence of echo time on pulmonary ventilation and perfusion derived by phase-resolved functional lung (PREFUL) MRI using multi-echo ultrashort echo time acquisition.

Non-contrast enhanced 1H magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is promising for ventilation/perfusion (V/Q) assessment of the lung but the influence of the echo time (TE) on V/Q parameters is lacking. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of different TEs on pulmonary V/Q parameters derived by phase-resolved functional lung (PREFUL) MRI using a multi-echo ultrashort TE (UTE) acquisition. A 2D multi-echo UTE sequence with radial center out readout and tiny golden angle increment was developed. Forty-eight participants were enrolled in this study: 25 healthy subjects, six patients with asthma, and 17 patients with pulmonary fibrosis. Participants underwent two acquisitions of 2D multi-echo UTE MRI with three TEs per acquisition (TE1-6: 0.07, 0.82, 1.72, 2.47, 3.37, and 4.12 ms). Regional ventilation (RVent), flow-volume loop cross-correlation metric (FVL-CM), and normalized perfusion-weighted signal (QN) maps were calculated. V/Q defect percentages (VDP/QDP) were determined. To assess repeatability, the measurement was repeated in healthy subjects. Median and interquartile range of RVent, FVL-CM, QN, VDP, and QDP were calculated. To assess significant differences between parameters obtained at different TEs, Friedman's test and Dunnett's test were performed. Pearson correlation coefficients between RVent derived at TE1 and the difference in RVent between TE2,3 and TE1 were calculated. For repeatability assessment, coefficient of variation (CoV) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) were determined. Significant differences were found comparing V/Q parameters obtained at TE3-6 compared to TE1. CoV increased with TE. For ICC, values between 0.35 (QDP at TE1) and 0.83 (VDPRVent at TE2) were obtained for T1,2. Statistically significant differences for ventilation and perfusion parameters derived by PREFUL were found for TE3-6 compared to TE1. All V/Q parameters were well repeatable for TE1-2. With increasing TE and respiratory volume, RVent shows a T2*-dependency leading to biased ventilation assessment compared to TE1.

The application of mass defect percentage in the evaluation of acute coronary syndrome.

White blood cells, neutrophils, lymphocytes, and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) distribution patterns in patients with anatomic coronary disease have previously been associated with cardiac events such as myocardial infarct size, complications, and prognosis. However, it remains unknown whether myocardial perfusion mass defect percentage (MDP) obtained from gated myocardial perfusion imaging (G-MPI) correlates with these hematological parameters. Therefore, our research aimed to investigate the application of MDP in the evaluation of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Thirty-six patients with ACS underwent single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography using retrospective electrocardiography gating during the resting state. The primary outcome was the percentage of left ventricular mass with abnormal myocardial perfusion (i.e. MDP) in G-MPI. Furthermore, the correlation between myocardial perfusion MDP and lymphocyte count, neutrophil count, white blood cell count, and NLR was calculated. In addition, we explored the relationship of myocardial perfusion MDP with other cardiac function parameters obtained from G-MPI, such as summed rest score, left ventricular ejection fraction, end-systolic volume, and end-diastolic volume. Myocardial perfusion MDP significantly correlated with white blood cell count, neutrophil count, and NLR (P < 0.01). Furthermore, these hematological parameters were significantly different between low and high MDP groups. Additionally, myocardial perfusion MDP negatively correlated with end-systolic volume (r = -0.615) and left ventricular ejection fraction (r = -0.657). Myocardial perfusion MDP has a high correlation with inflammatory cell counts and cardiac function parameters obtained from G-MPI in ACS; this may be of help in the evaluation and treatment of these patients.

Defect induced persistence photoconductivity in spray pyrolyzed ZnO thin films: Impact of Sm3+ doping

The persistent photoconductivity of the rare earth ion doped ZnO is an emerging field. The present work focuses on the effect of samarium (Sm3+) ion doping on the persistence photo response behaviour ZnO host matrix. The Zn1-xSmxO (x = 0.0 to 0.10) thin films were deposited on chemically cleaned glass substrates using spray pyrolysis technique. The films showed polycrystalline nature and hexagonal wurtzite structure without any impurity peaks. The Zn0.93Sm0.07O films showed maximum crystallite size of 24.2 nm and minimum dislocation density. The gradual change in the thickness of the fibrous nature was observed with the addition of Sm3+ ions into ZnO lattice. Energy dispersive analysis of x-ray and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirmed the presence of elements and its oxidation states in the deposited film respectively. The area under the curve of deconvoluted photoluminescence spectra of deposits confirmed the decrease in the various defect percentage with increase in the doping concentration of Sm3+ ions. The photoluminescence spectra of Zn0.93Sm0.07O films showed maximum near band edge emission and minimum defects. The Zn0.93Sm0.07O films showed higher carrier concentration of 1×1017 cm−3, mobility 32 cm2/Vs and lower resistivity of 1×102 Ω cm due to improved film quality. The Zn0.93Sm0.07O films exhibited the current value under dark and ultraviolet light illumination was in the range of 10−6 A and 10−4 A respectively. The maximum photocurrent was noticed at 375 nm which corresponds to the bandgap of the deposited films. The Zn0.93Sm0.07O films showed faster photo response (5 s and 131 s of response and recovery time) due to the presence of minimum trap states. Hence the Zn0.93Sm0.07O films can be used in the fabrication of light dependent resistors and ultraviolet sensors.

Comparison of 3D UTE free-breathing lung MRI with hyperpolarized 129Xe MRI in pediatric cystic fibrosis.

To compare phase-resolved functional lung (PREFUL) regional ventilation derived from a free breathing 3D UTE radial MRI acquisition to hyperpolarized 129Xe-MRI (Xe-MRI), conventional 2D multi-slice PREFUL MRI, and pulmonary function tests in pediatric cystic fibrosis (CF) lung disease. Free-breathing 3D UTE and 2D multi-slice 1H MRI as well as Xe-MRI were acquired in 12 stable pediatric CF patients. Using PREFUL, regional ventilation (RVent) maps were calculated from the free-breathing data. Ventilation defect percentage (VDP) was determined from 3D and 2D RVent maps (2D VDPRVent and 3D VDPRVent, respectively) and Xe-MRI ventilation (VDPXe). VDP was calculated for the whole lung and for eight regions based on left/right, anterior/posterior, and superior/inferior divisions of the lung. Global and regional VDP was compared between the three methods using Bland-Altman analysis, linear mixed model-based correlation, and one-way analysis of variance and multiple comparisons tests. Global 3D VDPRVent, VDPXe, and 2D VDPRVent were all strongly correlated (all R2 > 0.62, p < 0.0001) and showed minimal, non-significant bias (all <2%, p > 0.05). Three dimensional and 2D VDPRVent significantly correlated to VDPXe in most of the separate lung regions (R2 = 0.18-0.74, p < 0.04), but showed lower inter-agreement. The superior/anterior lung regions showed the least agreement between all three methods (all p > 0.12). Absolute VDP assessed by 3D UTE PREFUL MRI showed good global agreement with Xe-MRI and 2D multi-slice PREFUL MRI in pediatric CF lung disease. Therefore, 3D UTE PREFUL MRI offers a sensitive and potentially more accessible alternative to Xe-MRI for regional volumetric evaluation of ventilation.

Renal Cortical Imaging with Tc-99m DMSA in Children: An Institutional Review.

Background Urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the commonly encountered conditions in children. Dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) scintigraphy is widely advocated for functional and morphological evaluation of the renal cortex including parenchymal defect. Moreover, only a small percentage of renal defects are detected by ultrasound. We aimed to examine DMSA scintigraphy of children and identify factors associated with cortical defect. Methods Patients aged ≤ 18 years old who underwent DMSA scintigraphy (November 18, 2019-February 2, 2023, 30 children) were included. All children received intravenous injections of 99m Tc-DMSA followed by static planar and single-photon-emission computed tomography imaging at 3 hours. Cortical findings and differential functions of the worst affected kidney were graded accordingly. Grade I has no more than two cortical defects, grade II has more than two cortical defects with normal parenchyma between the defects, while grade III is when generalized damage is noted, and grade IV is when a shrunken kidney is seen with no DMSA uptake. Normal functioning kidney is when the relative function at 45 to 55%, mildly reduced function at 40 to 44%, and substantially impaired function at 10 to 39%, while nonfunctioning is when the differential split renal function < 10%. All data were then statistically analyzed. Results Majority was female (53%). The mean age was 5.85 years. UTI episodes were 73%. Twenty-two children had congenital urinary tract anomalies. All patients with vesicoureteric refluxes (VURs) had positive defects. Scintigraphy showed abnormalities in 17 children affecting unilateral (64%) or both kidneys (36%). There were 17 children (57%) respectively in the abnormal DMSA scan findings category with normal until significant impairment of the functioning kidney category. VURs were significantly associated with abnormal scintigraphy ( p < 0.05). A significant association was found between abnormal DMSA scan findings and differential renal function ( p < 0.05). Conclusion Significant association was noted between VURs and abnormal DMSA scintigraphy, abnormal DMSA scan findings, and impaired differential renal function. Special consideration should be given to these cases.

Comparative Evaluation of Dentinal Microcrack Formation During Root Canal Preparation Using Different Rotary Files: An In Vitro Study

Background:The success of endodontic treatment depends on completely removing all vital and necrotic pulp tissue, microorganisms, and microbial toxins from the root canal. During the cleaning and shaping process, the canal is shaped through the interaction between instruments and the dentin walls. These interactions can create several temporary stress points within the dentin, which may lead to the development of dentinal defects, craze lines, or microcracks. As a result, the techniques employed for shaping root canals carry the risk of starting crack formation, which, under functional pressure, could progress into complete fractures. This study was aimed to compare and evaluate the incidence of dentinal microcrack formation during root canal preparation using ProTaper Universal, ProTaper Gold, NeoEndo Flex and Hyflex EDM files. Materials and Methods: A total of 95 freshly extracted single rooted premolars with single straight canal were selected and stored in normal saline. Each specimen was examined using dental operating microscope to exclude cracked samples. Specimens then decoronated using a diamond disc and water as a coolant to a standardized length of 14 mm. Canal patency was determined by passing 10 K file passively and the working length was established 1 mm short of the file length at which the file become visible at the apical foramen. Canal was then enlarged upto15 k size file. Teeth samples were then divided into 5 groups having 19 teeth each. Group 1: Control Group (Uninstrumented teeth), Group 2 : Protaper Universal, Group 3 : Protaper Gold, Group 4 : NeoEndo Flex ,Group 5 : Hyflex EDM. After completion of cleaning and shaping procedure (to a standard apical diameter of 25), canal was rinsed with distilled water. Root was then horizontally sectioned at 3 mm, 6 mm and 9 mm from the apex with diamond disc at low speed under water cooling. All the sections were evaluated under stereomicroscope for presence of cracks and images were recorded. Cracks were observed as lines extending from the root canal lumen to the dentin or from the outer surface into the dentin. Results: All the file systems used in this study showed dentinal microcracks. ProTaper Universal exhibited the highest percentage of dentinal defects, while Hyflex EDM displayed the lowest among the file systems used (ProTaper Universal, ProTaper Gold, NeoEndo Flex and Hyflex EDM). The defects were present more in the apical third (3 mm) as compared to 6 mm (middle third) and 9 mm (coronal third) sections

Early Bone and Suture Reformations in Different Cranial Regions After Cranial Vault Remodeling for Sagittal Craniosynostosis.

Cranial vault remodeling (CVR) is a common procedure for correcting sagittal craniosynostosis. Some approaches leave significant craniectomy defects. The authors investigated the reosteogenesis in different cranial defect areas after CVR. A cross-sectional study was conducted in nonsyndromic sagittal craniosynostosis. Available early postoperative computed tomography (CT) scans were analyzed. The segmentation of three-dimensional reconstructed images was performed. Different cranial defect areas, including coronal, vertex, and occipital regions, were further investigated using an automated three-dimensional analysis software for reosteogenesis percentage. Forty-four CT scans were included. The average age at CVR was 8.8 months. The median time of postoperative CT scans was 6.1 weeks. The median bone reformation percentage of the entire cranial defect was 56.7%. Given the similar postoperative CT timing, the median bone reformation at the coronal, vertex, and occipital areas demonstrated 44.21%, 41.13%, and 77.75%, respectively (P < 0.001). In the simultaneously removed coronal and lambdoid sutures, there were 45% with coronal and lambdoid sutures reformation, followed by lambdoid suture reformation alone, no suture reformation and coronal reformation alone in 35%, 20%, and 0%, respectively (P = 0.013). There was no coronal reformation in the removed coronal suture group. However, 40% demonstrated lambdoid suture reformation after the isolated lambdoid suture removal. The occipital region has the highest reosteogenesis compared with the other cranial defects after CVR in nonsyndromic sagittal craniosynostosis. Within the removed previous patent sutures, the lambdoid suture reformation showed a higher rate than the coronal suture.

Single Flap Approach Versus Conventional Flap in the Treatment of Intrabony Defects: A 6-Month Clinico Radiological Study

Abstract Introduction: The comparison of single-flap approach (SFA) and conventional flap (CF) techniques in the treatment of intrabony defects is a significant area of periodontal research. This clinical-radiological study evaluates the effectiveness of these methods over a 6-month period. SFA involves minimal surgical intervention, promoting faster healing and reduced patient discomfort. Conversely, CF is a traditional method with broader exposure to the surgical site for more extensive cleaning and repair. This study aims to provide insights into the relative advantages and clinical outcomes associated with each approach, contributing to evidence-based periodontal therapy practices. Materials and Methods: Thirty sites with chronic/aggressive periodontitis were selected for the present study. Phase I therapy was performed and evaluated after 4 weeks. Clinical parameters such as plaque and gingival index and probing pocket depth (PPD) were measured at baseline and 6 months postoperatively. The mean defect fills and percentage defect fill were calculated with the help of cone-beam computed tomography at baseline and 6 months postoperatively. The subjects were divided into two equal groups with the help of a coin toss. The Group I (test sites) underwent an SFA, whereas the Group II (control) site underwent conventional surgical procedures. Results: The PPD in both groups was reduced over a 6-month post-operative period. The mean defect size and percentage of defect fill between baseline and 6 months postoperatively in both groups were statistically significant. Conclusion: The single-flap approach and the CF are equally effective in treating periodontal intrabony defects.

Phase-resolved MRI for measurement of pulmonary perfusion and ventilation defects in comparison with dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI and 129Xe MRI

IntroductionThis meta-analysis aims to evaluate the agreement and correlation between phase-resolved functional lung MRI (PREFUL MRI) and dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) MRI in evaluating perfusion defect percentage (QDP), as well as...

The effect of platelet-rich plasma and sodium alginate hydrogel on corneal wound healing after corneal alkali burns in rats with computer-assisted anterior segment optical coherence tomography image analysis

Our objective was to determine the effect of a semi-synthetic sodium alginate hydrogel and its combination with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) on histopathological, biochemical, clinical, and anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) data. Alkali chemical burn of the cornea was induced. Injured rats were randomly divided into five equal groups and topically treated with phosphate-buffered saline (sham), platelet-rich plasma (PRP), 0.5% sodium citrate, a semi-synthetic sodium alginate hydrogel, or a combination of PRP and hydrogel (combined group) three times daily. The degree of corneal opacity (CO), corneal epithelial staining (CES), percentage of corneal epithelial defects (CEDP), degree of ciliary hyperemia (CH), neovascularization size (NVS), and extent of neovascularization (NVE) were evaluated. AS-OCT was performed at nine days, and then rats were sacrificed. Histological examination and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were performed to detect the concentrations of IL-1β and MMP-9 in the cornea. There were no significant differences between the groups regarding CEDP, CO, CES, CH, NVS, or NVE on the first day after corneal alkali burn injury (p > 0,05). At the last examination, CO was significantly lower in the PRP group than in the sham group (p = 0,044), while the CO concentrations were similar in terms of NVS (p > 0,05). Similarly, in terms of tissue MMP-9 levels, there were no significant differences between groups (p > 0,05). However, there was a significant difference in tissue IL-1β levels between the groups (p < 0,001). In the PRP and combined groups, the level of IL-1β was significantly lower than that in the sham group (p = 0,043 and p = 0,036, respectively). There was a significant difference in epithelial necrosis between the PRP, and it was the lowest in the combined group (p = 0,003). Epithelial thickness was highest in the combined group (p = 0,002). CEDP was significantly different at the last visit between the groups (p = 0.042). The fastest epithelial closing rate was observed for the combined group (p = 0,026). There was a significant negative correlation between tissue MMP-9 levels and corneal solidity and between tissue MMP-9 levels and the corneal area according to the AS-OCT measurements (p = 0,012 and p = 0,027, respectively). When used alone, topical hydrogel application did not significantly enhance the healing of corneal wounds. However, when combined with PRP, it leads to an increased rate of epithelial closure and neovascularization. This combination did not exacerbate inflammation or corneal opacity compared to PRP alone. The anticoagulant citrate solution in the PRP tube did not prove effective. The synergistic use of PRP and hydrogel could enhance epithelial thickness and reduce epithelial necrosis. The use of new parameters for corneal wound healing assessment was facilitated through AS-OCT image processing.

Free-breathing 3D phase-resolved functional lung MRI vsbreath-hold hyperpolarized 129Xe ventilation MRI in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary diseaseand healthy volunteers.

3D phase-resolved functional lung (PREFUL) MRI offers evaluation of pulmonary ventilation without inhalation of contrast agent. This study seeks to compare ventilation maps obtained from 3D PREFUL MRI with a direct ventilation measurement derived from 129Xe MRI in both patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and healthy volunteers. Thirty-one patients with COPD and 12 healthy controls underwent free-breathing 3D PREFUL MRI and breath-hold 129Xe MRI at 1.5 T. For both MRI techniques, ventilation defect (VD) maps were determined and respective ventilation defect percentage (VDP) values were computed. All parameters of both techniques were compared by Spearman correlation coefficient (r) and the differences between VDP values were quantified by Bland-Altman analysis and tested for significance using Wilcoxon signed-rank test. In a regional comparison of VD maps, spatial overlap and Sørensen-Dice coefficients of healthy and defect areas were computed. On a global level, all 3D PREFUL VDP values correlated significantly to VDP measure derived by 129Xe ventilation imaging (all r > 0.65; all p < 0.0001). 129Xe VDP was significantly greater than 3D PREFUL derived VDPRVent (mean bias = 10.5%, p < 0.001) and VDPFVL-CM (mean bias = 11.3%, p < 0.0001) but not for VDPCombined (mean bias = 1.7%, p = 0.70). The total regional agreement of 129Xe and 3D PREFUL VD maps ranged between 60% and 63%. Free-breathing3D PREFUL MRI showed a strong correlation with breath-hold hyperpolarized 129Xe MRI regarding the VDP values and modest differences in the detection of VDs on a regional level. 3D PREFUL MRI correlated with 129Xe MRI, unveiling regional differences in COPD defect identification. This proposes 3D PREFUL MRI as a ventilation mapping surrogate, eliminating the need for extra hardware or inhaled gases. Current non-invasive evaluation techniques for lung diseases have drawbacks; 129Xe MRI is limited by cost and availability. 3D PREFUL MRI correlated with 129Xe MRI, with regional differences in identifying COPD defects. 3DPREFUL MRI can provide ventilation mapping without the need for additional hardware or inhaled gases.

Peri-implantitis induction and resolution around zirconia versus titanium implants.

This study compared titanium and zirconia implant ligature-induced peri-implant defect progression and response to regenerative surgical intervention. Eight tissue-level endosseous implants were placed in 6 mixed-breed foxhounds, with 2 zirconia and 2 titanium alternating in each hemimandible. Cotton ligatures were placed subgingivally for 16weeks followed by 8weeks of spontaneous progression. Standardized radiographs were captured every 2weeks to evaluate the rate of bone loss. Regenerative surgery was performed utilizing water-jet decontamination, enamel matrix derivative, and locally harvested autogenous bone. After 16weeks of healing, final radiographic bone levels as well as probing depths, recession, and clinical attachment levels were assessed. All 48 implants integrated successfully. The final average post-ligature radiographic defects were 2.88 and 3.05mm for titanium and zirconia implants, respectively. There was no significant difference between materials in the rate of radiographic bone loss (p=0.09). Following regenerative surgery, the total average amount of radiographic bone gain was 1.41 and 1.20mm for titanium and zirconia, respectively. The percentage of defect fill was 51.56% and 37.98% (p=0.03) for titanium and zirconia, respectively. Inter-group differences were minimal for clinical parameters at the time of sacrifice including periodontal pocket depths (p=0.81), recession (p=0.98), or clinical attachment levels (p=0.51). No significant difference was found in the rate of peri-implant defect development between titanium and zirconia implants. Both materials gained significant radiographic bone following regenerative surgery with significantly greater defect percentage fill in titanium implants. The final clinical parameters were similar in both groups.

Novel evaluation of pulmonary hypertension associated with chronic lung disease using perfusion SPECT/CT: A pilot study.

In pulmonary hypertension (PH) associated with chronic lung disease (CLD), identifying patients who would benefit from pulmonary vasodilators is a significant clinical challenge because the presence of PH is associated with poorer survival. This study evaluated the severity of pulmonary circulation impairment in patients with CLD-PH using pulmonary perfusion single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT). This single-center, observational study enrolled patients with CLD-PH who had a mean pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP) ≥ 25 mmHg, as confirmed by right heart catheterization. The primary outcome was to measure the percentage of pulmonary perfusion defect (%PPD), calculated by dividing the perfusion defect volume from perfusion SPECT images by the lung volume from CT scan images. The secondary outcome was to assess the correlation between %PPD and baseline characteristics. The median %PPD was 52.4% (interquartile range, 42.5%-72.3%) in 22 patients. In multivariate linear regression analysis, both forced vital capacity (β = 0.58, p = 0.008) and mean PAP (β = 0.68, p = 0.001) were significantly correlated with %PPD. In conclusion, significant correlation between mean PAP and %PPD in patients with CLD-PH was observed. This noninvasive assessment of %PPD may be useful for evaluating the severity of pulmonary circulation impairment in CLD-PH.

Defect Analysis of Packaging Bottle Products Using Six Sigma and Kaizen Methods at PT. XYZ

PT XYZ is a company engaged in manufacturing plastic packaging. The company produces various forms of packaging, one of which is cosmetic bottle packaging. Meanwhile, based on the problems of the production process, various types of product defects such as black spots, leaks, and oil dirt are often found. The company produces the most defective products in 30ml cosmetic bottle products, with a percentage of 3% to 4% of the total production. Based on the above problems, this study aims to determine the level of defects and the sigma value of product quality. In addition, provide suggestions for improvement to reduce the level of product defects at PT XYZ. The methods used are Six sigma and Kaizen. The Six Sigma stages include define, measure, analyze, and improve. The improve stage is assisted by the Kaizen Five M Checklist and Kaizen Five Step Plan. The improve stage is assisted by the Kaizen Five M Checklist and Kaizen Five Step Plan. Based on the results of research with the six sigma method, the percentage of black spot defects is 74%, leaking is 14.1%, and dirty oil is 11.9%. the proposed improvements given are providing 5S training and SOP refreshment, sorting reject products before grinding, cleaning the machine and production area at the end of each shift, replacing blowpin threads and bolts, and others.

Analysis of Patient Bed Product Quality Control with Six Sigma Method and Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) (Case Study of PT. Karya Indah Medika)

PT. Karya Indah Medika is a manufacturing company engaged in the production of hospital furniture. One such product is a patient bed. In each period of patient bed production, there are still defects that occur such as coating defects, dented iron, and broken wheels. The purpose of this study is to determine the percentage of defects, and the causes of defects, and to obtain the greatest risk of failure in the production process in the RPN value so that the type of failure can be determined which should be prioritized first so as soon as possible corrected and determined corrective steps to reduce product defects. The research method used is Six Sigma and Failure Mode Effect Analysis (FMEA). The Six Sigma method includes Define, Measure, Analyze and Improve which will be used to determine the percentage of defects that occur. While the FMEA method is carried out as an effort to improve quality. Based on the research calculations, the results obtained were a sigma value of 3.19σ. Based on calculations using the FMEA method, the largest RPN is obtained for coating defects, namely ink absorption that is not optimal, broken wheel defects, namely operators who are too hasty during assembly, and dented iron defects, inappropriate material quality. Advice that can be given is to control and monitor ink absorption, operators who are more careful and not in a hurry, and check the quality of raw materials before processing.

Phase-Resolved Functional Lung (PREFUL) MRI May Reveal Distinct Pulmonary Perfusion Defects in Postacute COVID-19 Syndrome: Sex, Hospitalization, and Dyspnea Heterogeneity.

Pulmonary perfusion defects have been observed in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Currently, there is a need for further data on non-contrast-enhanced MRI in COVID patients. The early identification of heterogeneity in pulmonary perfusion defects among COVID-19 patients is beneficial for their timely clinical intervention and management. To investigate the utility of phase-resolved functional lung (PREFUL) MRI in detecting pulmonary perfusion disturbances in individuals with postacute COVID-19 syndrome (PACS). Prospective. Forty-four participants (19 females, mean age 64.1 years) with PACS and 44 healthy subjects (19 females, mean age 59.5 years). Moreover, among the 44 patients, there were 19 inpatients and 25 outpatients; 19 were female and 25 were male; 18 with non-dyspnea and 26 with dyspnea. 3-T, two-dimensional (2D) spoiled gradient-echo sequence. Ventilation and perfusion-weighted maps were extracted from five coronal slices using PREFUL analysis. Subsequently, perfusion defect percentage (QDP), ventilation defect percentage (VDP), and ventilation-perfusion match healthy (VQM) were calculated based on segmented lung parenchyma ventilation and perfusion-weighted maps. Additionally, clinical features, including demographic data (such as sex and age) and serum biomarkers (such as D-dimer levels), were evaluated. Spearman correlation coefficients to explore relationships between clinical features and QDP, VDP, and VQM. Propensity score matching analysis to reduce the confounding bias between patients with PACS and healthy controls. The Mann-Whitney U tests and Chi-squared tests to detect differences between groups. Multivariable linear regression analyses to identify factors related to QDP, VDP, and VQM. A P-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. QDP significantly exceeded that of healthy controls in individuals with PACS (39.8% ± 15.0% vs. 11.0% ± 4.9%) and was significantly higher in inpatients than in outpatients (46.8% ± 17.0% vs. 34.5% ± 10.8%). Moreover, males exhibited pulmonary perfusion defects significantly more frequently than females (43.9% ± 16.8% vs. 34.4% ± 10.2%), and dyspneic participants displayed significantly higher perfusion defects than non-dyspneic patients (44.8% ± 15.8% vs. 32.6% ± 10.3%). QDP showed a significant positive relationship with age (β = 0.50) and D-dimer level (β = 0.72). PREFUL MRI may show pulmonary perfusion defects in patients with PACS. Furthermore, perfusion impairments may be more pronounced in males, inpatients, and dyspneic patients. 2 TECHNICAL EFFICACY: Stage 2.