Radiographic Testing Research Articles

Recent Development of Halide Perovskite Materials and Devices for Ionizing Radiation Detection.

Ionizing radiation such as X-rays and γ-rays has been extensively studied and used in various fields such as medical imaging, radiographic nondestructive testing, nuclear defense, homeland security, and scientific research. Therefore, the detection of such high-energy radiation with high-sensitivity and low-cost-based materials and devices is highly important and desirable. Halide perovskites have emerged as promising candidates for radiation detection due to the large light absorption coefficient, large resistivity, low leakage current, high mobility, and simplicity in synthesis and processing as compared with commercial silicon (Si) and amorphous selenium (a-Se). In this review, we provide an extensive overview of current progress in terms of materials development and corresponding device architectures for radiation detection. We discuss the properties of a plethora of reported compounds involving organic-inorganic hybrid, all-inorganic, all-organic perovskite and antiperovskite structures, as well as the continuous breakthroughs in device architectures, performance, and environmental stability. We focus on the critical advancements of the field in the past few years and we provide valuable insight for the development of next-generation materials and devices for radiation detection and imaging applications.

Defining a clinical prediction rule to diagnose bacterial gastroenteritis requiring empirical antibiotics in an emergency department setting: A retrospective review

BackgroundGastroenteritis (GE) is a non-specific term for various pathologic states of the gastrointestinal tract. Infectious agents usually cause acute GE. At present, there are no robust decision-making rules that predict bacterial GE and dictate when to start antibiotics for patients suffering from acute GE to the emergency department (ED). We aim to define a clinical prediction rule to aid in the diagnosis of bacterial GE, requiring empirical antibiotics in adult patients presenting to the emergency department with acute GE.MethodsA two-year retrospective case review was performed on all cases from July 2015 to June 2017 that included patients with acute GE symptoms referred to the ED, after which their stool cultures were performed. The clinical parameters analyzed included patient with comorbid conditions, physical examination findings, historical markers, point-of-care and radiographic tests and other laboratory work. We then used multi-variate logistic regression analysis on each group (bacterial culture–positive GE and bacterial culture–negative GE) to elucidate clinical criteria with the highest yield for predicting bacterial gastroenteritis (BGE).ResultsA total of 756 patients with a mean age of 52 years, 52% female and 48% male, respectively, were included in the study. On the basis of the data of these patients, we suggested using a scoring system to delineate the need for empirical antibiotics in patients with suspected bacterial GE based on six clinical and laboratory variables. We termed this the BGE score. A score 0 – 2 points suggests low risk (0.9%) of bacterial GE. A score of 3 – 4 points confers an intermediate risk of 12.0% and a score of 5 – 8 points confers a high risk of 85.7%. A cut-off of ≥ 5 points may be used to predict culture-positive BGE with a 75% sensitivity and 75% specificity. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) for the scoring system (range 0 – 8) was 0.812 (95% CI: 0.780–0.843) p-value < 0.001.ConclusionWe suggest using the BGE scoring system (cut-off ≥ 5 points) to delineate the need for empirical antibiotics in patients diagnosed with gastroenteritis. While this is a pilot study, which will require further validation with a larger sample size, our proposed decision-making rule will potentially serve to improve the diagnosis of BGE and thus reduce unnecessary prescription of antibiotics, which will in turn reduce antibiotic-associated adverse events and save on costs worldwide.

Double side friction stir welding effect on mechanical properties and corrosion rate of aluminum alloy AA6061

Friction Stir Welding (FSW) is a solid-state welding method that has diffusion and different metal structures can blend well. Friction stir welding (FSW) has a weakness, one of which is the lack of flexibility the welding process is only carried out on one side of the plate being welded, so it is not applied on thick materials. Double side friction stir welding is a double working process in which the plate to be welded is subjected to friction from two tools on opposite sides. In the DS-FSW welding process, the dimensions and geometry of the tool and pin greatly affect the quality of the joint. This study to determine the mechanical properties and corrosion rate of Double side friction stir welding aluminum 6061 with variation rotation speed and axis of top and bottom tools. The results of this radiographic test can be seen that specimen 4 welded with variations in speed and tool position has defects in the form of incomplete fusion (IF). The results of microstructural observations showed that the heat caused by the welding process resulted in recrystallization in the form of fine grains in the stirring area and there was no phase change. The highest hardness value in the welding area is specimen B. The largest bending value at the 1G welding positions is specimen D, which is 41.86 MPa with a strain value of 13.23%, while the smallest value at the 4G welding position is specimen A, which is 38.18 MPa with a strain value of 5.03%. The fracture and crack surfaces showed that crack initiation, propagation and material stirring failure occurred in all test specimens, even though the impact test specimen was cut in a small area of Incomplete Fusion, but the test results showed that there was still a surface of the parent metal that had not been stirred. The corrosion test method uses three electrode cells with corrosion media as a substitute for seawater with a salinity of 3.5% NaCl, result of corrosion test is specimen B at the 1G welding position has the highest corrosion rate value of 0.63856 mm/year and specimen An at the 1G welding position has the lowest corrosion rate of 0.058567 mm/year.

Experimental investigation on high-temperature tensile behavior of cold metal transfer pulse multi-control welding of Inconel 617 alloy

To improve the efficiency of the advanced steam power plants, both the pressure and temperature of the steam are increased. The Inconel 617 alloys are a candidate material for these applications. The microstructural features and tensile characteristics of welded joints made using the cold metal transfer (CMT) plus pulse multi-control (PMC) by varying the wire feed speed (8.9, 9.4, and 9.9 m/min) at room and high temperatures (650 °C, 700 °C, and 750 °C) are examined. An optical microscope (OM) and Field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) were used to examine the microstructure and fracture surfaces of the alloy. The mechanism of strengthening and the effects of precipitates on tensile strength and % elongation in both Base metal (BM) and weld bead are discussed in detail. The mechanical behavior was analyzed in terms of impact strength and bending strength in detail by varying the wire feed speed (WFS). Indications for porosity and cracks were not reported in the X-ray radiography test. The macrographs revealed that bead width, penetration depth, the metal deposited on the weld, and HAZ are in direct proportion with wire feed speed. Bend test results showed that the weld joints exhibit good ductility without cracks.

Safety in Industrial Radiography: A Short Review

Nuclear industry have increasing demand from the world because its advantagestowards us.It can generate larger scale of energy using little material.However,there iscertain awareness to us.In 2011 Fukushima Daiichi nuclear incident happen in Japanbecause of tsunami giving a major damage towards environment and people it is theworstincidentsinceChernobyl.Itgivesalotdamageandthelandunlivablefordecades.Then, power plants radioactive waste radiation to environment.There are fewincident related to radioactive waste and it is real life threat.These materials can beharmful to environment for decades to come. Radiography is a non-destructive method used by most industry to discover the structuralproperties of material or to check for any defect in the material that can cause a failure in theprocess. The type of radiation used by the industry for radiography technique is ionizingradiationsuchasx-rayandgammaradiation,itisastrongradiationsource.Workingwithsucha dangerous radiation need some decent skills and protection to avoid any radiation exposuretotheworkerthatwillresultinsomeserioushealthcondition.Notonlyitcanaffecttheworker,if it is handled recklessly, it can degrade the quality of the final product and causing pollutionto environment. Therefore, an extreme safeguarding and professionalism is required for theradiationworker. In thisreview, will looked for the safetyguidelinestoimprovethesafetytoenvironmentandhumaninnuclearindustry and will be focusing on the common radiationprotectionand procedurethathas been implemented inindustrial radiography.

Osteoregeneration of Critical-Size Defects Using Hydroxyapatite-Chitosan and Silver-Chitosan Nanocomposites.

Bone is a natural nanocomposite composed of proteins and minerals that can regenerate itself. However, there are conditions in which this process is impaired, such as extensive bone defects and infections of the bone or surrounding tissue. This study evaluates the osteoregenerative capacity of bone grafting materials in animals with induced bone defects. Colloidal chitosan dispersion nanocomposites, nanohydroxyapatite−chitosan (NHAP-Q) and nanosilver−chitosan (AgNP-Q), were synthesized and characterized. Non-critical-size defects in Wistar rats were used to evaluate the material’s biocompatibility, and critical-size defects in the calvarias of guinea pigs were used to evaluate the regenerative capacity of the bones. Moreover, the toxicity of the nanocomposites was evaluated in the heart, liver, spleen, kidneys, and skin. Histological, radiographic, and electron microscopy tests were also performed. The results showed that neither material produced pathological changes. Radiographic examination showed a significant reduction in defects (75.1% for NHAP-Q and 79.3% for AgNP-Q), angiogenesis, and trabecular formation. A toxicological assessment of all the organs did not show changes in the ultrastructure of tissues, and the distribution of silver was different for different organs (spleen > skin > heart > kidney > liver). The results suggest that both materials are highly biocompatible, and AgNP-Q achieved similar bone regeneration to that reported with autologous bone. The main research outcome of the present study was the combination of two types of NPs to enhance antimicrobial and osteoregeneration activities. These colloidal chitosan dispersions show promise as future biomaterials in the medical field for applications in fast-healing fractures, including broken bones in the oral cavity and hip replacement infections.

Process virtualization for X-ray images obtaining in industrial radiography during nuclear power plant NDT specialists training

The research aims to highlight the analysis of the virtualization prerequisites in terms of the non-destructive testing training. The peculiarities of radiation control (RC), which significantly affect the organization of practical classes and the profitability of personnel training, are given. The main requirements for specialists in the course of practical training are listed. Methods of processing and visualizing information about the structure of dense three-dimensional bodies are considered and a simplified task-specified alternative is proposed. The results of the research underline the principle of image construction and processing through the use of digital twins of testing samples. This allows the user to get an image that is similar to shooting results of real metal samples in terms of training purposes. In order to deliver a more effective methodology, the main physical principles are taken into account for digital models of radiographs and optical density of films.

Results of the Use of Bioabsorbable Magnesium Screws for Surgical Treatment of Mason Type II Radial Head Fractures.

In Mason classification type II radial head fractures, compared to plate fixation, fixation with cannulated headless screws and absorbable pins has been reported to provide more favorable postoperative outcomes, including less postoperative limitation in range of motion. The fact that radial head fractures are less prone to weight-bearing during fracture union further supports the use of absorbable screws as a suitable alternative treatment option in radial head fractures. This study aimed to perform fixation through open reduction using bioabsorbable magnesium screws for Mason type II radial head fractures and to report radiographic and clinical results. Among patients who visited the orthopedic department from April 2017 to August 2021, 22 with surgical indications were selected for participation. Radiographic tests were conducted at 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 8 weeks, 12 weeks, 6 months, and over 1 year after surgery to confirm the degree of bone union, reduction loss, and degree of H2 gas production. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score, Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS), hand grip power, and range of joint motion were measured at the 6-month follow-up to evaluate the clinical efficacy of the operation. Bone union was confirmed in all 22 cases, and the mean time to union was 10.2 weeks. DASH score was 22.27 on average and no patients complained of significant discomfort after the surgery. The mean MEPS was 91.1. The hand grip power of the affected hand was similar to that of the unaffected hand, being 1.19% weaker on average. These differences reached statistical significance (p = 0.002). The range of elbow joint motion was measured: mean flexion, 146.1°; mean extension, 1.4°; mean pronation, 88.2°; and mean supination, 87.9°. In treating Mason type II radial head fractures, the use of bioabsorbable screws made of magnesium showed satisfactory results in radiographic and clinical evaluations. Magnesium bioabsorbable screws can maintain sufficient stability at the fracture site and have the advantage of avoiding secondary operation for the removal of internal fixation devices.

Implementation of Lean Manufacturing for Improvement of Gas Pipe Product Quality with Six Sigma Approach andValue Stream Mapping in Oil and Gas

A company in the oil and gas manufacturing industry produces gas pipe products using the Polyethylene model. During the period of January to June 2020, the company experienced a defect rate of 2% in the total production. This research utilized a descriptive method to analyze the production process in order to identify and eliminate the rejected products. The objective of this study was to achieve a decrease in defects below 2%. By applying the Six Sigma (DMAIC) method and conducting calculations and analysis, an improvement proposal was developed to address the defects found during the Radiography Test. The proposed solution involves providing specialized training for workers, implementing clear procedures and methods for work, and conducting training sessions to enhance operator skills and understanding of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). As a result of the proposed improvements, a comparison of cycle times was conducted. Prior to the implementation of the improvements, the cycle time was 390 minutes. However, after the implementation, the cycle time reduced significantly to approximately 245 minutes. Overall, the proposed improvements aim to reduce the defect rate below 2% and optimize the production process for gas pipe products with the Polyethylene model in the oil and gas manufacturing company.

Assessing the Level of Knowledge, Attitude, and Performance of Radiographers About Radiation Protection in Bandar Abbas, Iran

Background: Although radiography tests are beneficial in diagnosing various diseases, they have some risks for patients and radiology staff, which will be minimized if observing radiation protection standards. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and performance of radiographers regarding radiation protection in the radiology departments of Bandar Abbas. Methods: This work was performed as a descriptive-analytical study. A questionnaire consisting of 38 items was distributed among all radiographers in Bandar Abbas. Information obtained from the questionnaires was analyzed by appropriate nonparametric tests and Spearman’s correlation coefficient. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used to normalize the distribution of scores. Finally, linear regression was employed to determine the effect of each independent variable on the knowledge score. Results: The participation rate of radiographers was 53.9%. The means and standard deviations of scores assigned to attitude, knowledge, and performance in the field of radiation protection were 65.36±27.11, 36.36±17.72, and 46.66±19.60, respectively. The relationship between age and experience of radiographers with their attitude, knowledge, and practice was significant (P&gt;0.05). In addition, there was a significant difference between their attitudes in terms of the place of service (P&lt;0.05). Conclusion: The results of this study revealed that radiographers with different levels of age, education, and work experience have almost the same level of knowledge, attitude, and practice. They had an appropriate attitude and practice in the field of radiation protection.

Digital twins creation based on discrete modelling of non-destructive evaluation objects

Nowadays, the implementation of digital industrial technologies for maximal industrial processes automation and unmanned technologies creation is the main direction of technological development in the key of Industry 4.0 and NDE 4.0 paradigms. Service-oriented approach is proposed for the implementation of digital non-destructive evaluation as an effective solution for obtaining, processing and storing data and testing results. The model of industrial radiography laboratory simulator is considered, discrete models of digital twin objects are built when obtaining an image, for which the basic statements and tools of set theory are used. Examples illustrating the correspondence of digital twins’ mathematical models to their graphical analogues as well as the image generated on the detector are presented. The subject of extending CAD systems tools in the context of practical design of digital twins geometric image is considered. It is noted that virtualization of such a complex technical object as industrial radiography laboratory allows to check feasibility of technical solutions and engineering hypotheses with regard to real industrial conditions and needs in a short period of time and with minimum costs, thus providing, variability in implementation of process steps, and increasing the number of trained qualified specialists in radiation kind of non-destructive evaluation.

Ionising Radiation in Non-destructive Testing, Part 1 Types of Radiation used for Radiographic Testing – Basic Properties and Mechanism of Image Recording

Electromagnetic radiation, which is a special example of the electromagnetic field, has been present in the universe since its creation. Examples of radiation include radio waves, X-rays, and visible light. Depending on the frequency of the emitted electromagnetic wave, it can be ionising or non-ionising. Ionising radiation, due to its ability to penetrate matter, is oft en used in many areas of life. In industry, it is used for diagnostic purposes, e.g. in radiography.

Advanced Platelet-rich Fibrin-mediated Regeneration of Necrotic Immature Permanent Teeth: A Clinico-radiographic Observational Study.

The objective of the study was to assess the regenerative potential of advanced platelet-rich fibrin (APRF) in the regenerative treatment of necrotic immature permanent teeth (NIPT) in the maxillary incisor region. After institutional review board clearance, 10 children aged between 8 and 14 years with NIPT in the maxillary incisor region undergoing APRF treatment were enrolled in a prospective clinico-radiographic exploratory observational study. Baseline clinical, radiographic, and vitality testing before the start of treatment were noted. Patients were followed up at 3, 6, and 12 months posttreatment. After 3, 6, and 12 months of follow-up, all patients (100%) showed complete resolution of clinical signs and symptoms. All patients (100%) showed periradicular healing, and 9 out of 10 patients (90%) showed a clear hard tissue bridge formation at various levels in the root canal on postoperative radiographs. None of the patients (0%) showed a positive response to vitality testing. APRF is a promising biomaterial in regenerative endodontic treatment (RET). Future randomized trials can be planned to establish superiority or equivalence to conventional PRF. Wakhloo T, Shukla S, Chug A, et al. Advanced Platelet-rich Fibrin-mediated Regeneration of Necrotic Immature Permanent Teeth: A Clinico-radiographic Observational Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2022;15(4):402-406.

Implant Survival Rate and Prosthetic Complications of OT Equator Retained Maxillary Overdenture: A Cohort Study

(1) Background: The overdenture is a complete denture, an implant-supported prosthesis, that the patient can remove at home for the usual oral hygiene procedures, thanks to a simple and intuitive anchoring system. Clinically, the execution of this rehabilitation for the lower arch is often favored, but when it is necessary to limit the extension of the palate in the upper arch, it can represent the least invasive and economic solution. The aim of the study is to analyze post-loading implant loss for implant-supported prostheses in the edentulous upper jaw. (2) Methods: This retrospective study was carried out on patients who received a superior overdenture on four implants for rehabilitation. A total of 42 patients were included in this study and initially evaluated clinically and radiographically. The follow-up period for patients after delivery of the upper overdenture is between 48 and 72 months. A total of 168 implants were inserted and monitored in this period. Clinical and radiographic tests were carried out on all 168 implants, with constant re-evaluation. (3) Results: The overall implant survival rate is 92.9%, a value that corresponds to those present in the literature in previously published studies. There were few prosthetic complications, mainly the detachment of anterior prosthetic teeth. (4) Conclusions: Most of these complete prostheses, which as antagonist had another previously made overdenture on four or on two implants, achieved excellent success rates in this study at 72 months.

791. ICU Provider Overestimation of Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia Diagnostic Probability: An Opportunity for Diagnostic Stewardship

Abstract Background Overdiagnosis of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is common in intensive care units (ICUs). Because VAP is a clinical diagnosis without an easily accessible confirmatory diagnostic test, understanding how ICU physicians practice diagnostic reasoning in suspected VAP is vital to informing diagnostic stewardship efforts. We aimed to assess the accuracy of ICU practitioner estimates of VAP diagnostic probability. Methods We conducted a survey of physicians at Michigan Medicine ICUs. Providers were presented with clinical vignettes (Figure 1) in which mechanically ventilated patients developed clinical signs suggestive of VAP and then had radiographic/microbiologic tests performed. Providers were asked to estimate the probability of VAP before and after each presented clinical sign or test result, which were then used to impute provider-estimated likelihood ratios (pLRs) for each clinical sign and diagnostic test. Provider-estimated probabilities and LRs were compared to evidence-based VAP probabilities and LRs (eLRs) derived from systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Survey Case Example. Results Of 102 survey respondents, 54% felt moderately to extremely confident in their ability to accurately diagnose VAP. Providers significantly overestimated the pre and post-test probability of VAP in all clinical scenarios (provider-estimated VAP diagnostic probabilities are visualized using density plots relative to evidence-based diagnostic probability in Figure 2). Median pLRs for nearly all VAP clinical signs and diagnostic tests were also significantly higher than eLRs (Figure 3), most notably for isolated purulent endotracheal secretions (pLR 1.54 vs eLR 0.76, p&amp;lt; 0.01), positive chest radiograph (pLR 6.0 vs eLR 3.55, p&amp;lt; 0.01), and positive bronchoalveolar lavage culture (pLR 5.7 vs eLR 1.37, p&amp;lt; 0.01). Density Plots of Provider-Estimated vs Evidence-Based Diagnostic Probability of Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia. Provider-Estimated vs Evidence-Based Diagnostic Likelihood Ratios for Clinical Signs and Test Results Related to Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia. Conclusion Physicians routinely overestimated the diagnostic probability of VAP and the positive LRs of possible VAP clinical signs, as well as VAP diagnostic radiographic and microbiologic tests. Educational initiatives addressing and calibrating ICU providers’ perceptions of VAP diagnostic probability warrant investigation as an antimicrobial stewardship tool. Disclosures Owen Albin, MD, Charles River Laboratory: Advisor/Consultant|Cipla Pharmaceuticals: Advisor/Consultant|Shionogi Inc: Advisor/Consultant.

Effectiveness of 4 doses of COVID-19 vaccine in patients on maintenance hemodialysis in 5th wave of COVID-19 infection in Myanmar: Do we need 5 doses?

Background: Patients on maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) are at high risk of contracting SARS-CoV-2 and developing severe COVID-19 infection because they have low innate immunity as well as poor antibody response to COVID-19 vaccine. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of 4 doses of COVID-19 vaccine in preventing 5th wave of COVID-19 infections in patients on maintenance hemodialysis in Myanmar. Methods: A hospital-based descriptive study was conducted in July 2022 to November 2022 among patients on MHD who received COVID-19 vaccine 4 doses; last dose was 2 weeks ago. Data were collected by using standardized forms and analysis was done. Results: A total of 61 patients on maintenance hemodialysis ( MHD) who had 4 doses of COVID-19 vaccination more than 2 weeks were included. Nasopharyngeal swab PCR was taken twice a week to all patients (if they did not have symptoms) and it was repeated if they had symptoms suggestive of COVID-19 infection or they had history of contact with patients having COVID-19 infection. Their signs and symptoms were analyzed; chest radiograph and blood tests were taken if indicated. Then, the severity of COVID-19 infection was determined according to WHO criteria and they were given treatment according to hospital guideline. They were followed up till 28 days. The base line characteristics were as follows: mean age was 51.15 ± 12.85 years; male to female ratio was 4:6; mean BMI was 19.93 ± 2.83 kg/m2; 16.4%(10/61) had diabetic nephropathy; 9.8%(6/61) had cerebrovascular accident; 24.6%(15/61) had coronary heart disease; and one fifth of them were current smokers. Sixty six percent had past history of COVID-19 infection; duration from last infection was 404 days. Thirty three percent of cases had shortest duration of hemodialysis (6 months) and 23% were over 3 years. Mean duration from last vaccination was 39 days. Thirty six percent (22/61) had confirmed COVID-19 infection and 64% (39/61) of them were not infected till the end of 5th wave. All infected cases were mild form according to WHO criteria; none of them required oxygen therapy. One case having multiple comorbidities (lymphoma, coronary heart disease, hypertension and malignant cachexia) had sudden death due to pulmonary embolism. Conclusions: The protection rate of four doses of COVID-19 vaccine in patients on MHD was not good as 36% of them were infected in the 5th wave of epidemic in Myanmar. However, all the infected cases were mild form and they did not need oxygen therapy showing that booster vaccination prevented morbidity and mortality. Therefore, the protection rate of four doses of COVID-19 vaccine in patients on MHD was nearly 65%; it reduced the severe form of infection and death. Fifth dose of COVID-19 vaccine is necessary along with personnel protective measures.

Physiologic and radiographic testing in patients with pelvic floor disorders and pelvic organ prolapse

Pelvic floor disorders are common conditions that affects mainly the female population, especially the elderly. Anorectal physiology and imaging tests are important way to assess anal sphincter function and structure of the pelvic floor. Those tests are part of the workup for patients with incontinence, defecatory disorders and pelvic organ prolapse. The most relevant tests will be discussed in this article.

Outcome of Combined Periodontal-Orthodontic Treatment of Pathologic Tooth Migration: A Longitudinal Study

Introduction: A number of periodontal bone abnormalities, most of which are horizontal, have been associated with flared and long incisors. Individuals with anterior incisor displacement and periodontal disease may benefit from orthodontic-periodontal therapy. Objective: To determine the outcome of combined periodontal-orthodontic treatment of pathologic tooth migration Study design: A longitudinal study Place and Duration: This study was conducted at Rehman college of dentistry Peshawar, Pakistan from February 2022 to July 2022 Methodology: A 4-person team designed the study's procedures. On 56 maxillary incisors with horizontal bone anomalies, this surgery was performed to remove circumferential supracrestal fibrotomy and orthodontic-periodontal therapy. To compensate for the angular bone shortage in front teeth treated with orthodontics, guided tissue regeneration and periodontal regenerative surgery were performed. Before, throughout, and six months after guided tissue regeneration treatment (T1), cone-beam computed tomography images were done (T2). At each of the first three time points, the depth of the probing pocket and the degree of clinical attachment loss were determined. Paired t-tests were used to analyse the data. Results: Clinical attachment loss decreased by 0.28 mm from T0 to T1 (P &lt;0.05). The distance between the cementoenamel junction and the bone top decreased by 0.65 mm (P &lt;0.05). Alveolar bone thickness decreased by 0.45 mm on both the lingual and labial sides of the bone (P&lt;0.05). Bone anomalies in some teeth have been converted from horizontal to vertical. From T1 to T2, radiographic testing revealed a 2.16 mm vertical and 1.45 mm horizontal bone redeposition (P&lt;0.05), as well as improvements in probing pocket depth and clinical attachment loss (P&lt;0.05). During combination therapy, the cementoenamel distance decreased from 2.10 mm to 1.31 mm (P &lt;0.05). Conclusion: We were able to address periodontal diseases caused by improper bone implantation by combining orthodontic and periodontal treatment. By altering the bone structure, it is possible to improve the outcome of directed tissue regeneration following orthodontic invasion with fibrotomy. Keywords: orthodontic and periodontal treatment, outcome, bone implantation, Periodontal disease

Analysis of Thermal Fields, Weld Strength and Microstructural Studies of Friction Stir Dissimilar Weldments of AA6082 and AA7075

This research work aims to investigate thermal fields, weld strength and microstructural analyses of dissimilar welded structures of AA6082 and AA7075 developed using friction stir welding process. Three different tool shapes were used for joining of these plates to study the effect tool profiles on thermal cycles and their behavior on weld strength. The process parameters were considered same for three tool weldments. During welding, peak temperatures and their distribution towards along transverse direction and cooling temperature were recorded using Infra-Red (IR) thermography. The samples were inspected were X-ray radiography test to examine the defects. The tensile strength of the welded structures was evaluated by conducted tension test according to ASTM E/8 standards. Further, the microstructural behavior for three tool profile pins was studied using optical microscopy. The tool profile with cylindrical shape exhibiting higher tensile strength than the other two samples due to lower temperatures and uniformity of heat distribution during welding process. Also, the microstructural studies revealed that the fine grains with proper mixing zones were observed when cylindrical tool was employed. From this research work, IR thermography is most suitable for measuring In-situ temperature profiles even at weld vicinity during welding.

Developing an Artificial Intelligence Model for Reading Chest X-rays: Protocol for a Prospective Validation Study.

Chest x-rays are the most commonly used type of x-rays today, accounting for up to 26% of all radiographic tests performed. However, chest radiography is a complex imaging modality to interpret. Several studies have reported discrepancies in chest x-ray interpretations among emergency physicians and radiologists. It is of vital importance to be able to offer a fast and reliable diagnosis for this kind of x-ray, using artificial intelligence (AI) to support the clinician. Oxipit has developed an AI algorithm for reading chest x-rays, available through a web platform called ChestEye. This platform is an automatic computer-aided diagnosis system where a reading of the inserted chest x-ray is performed, and an automatic report is returned with a capacity to detect 75 pathologies, covering 90% of diagnoses. The overall objective of the study is to perform validation with prospective data of the ChestEye algorithm as a diagnostic aid. We wish to validate the algorithm for a single pathology and multiple pathologies by evaluating the accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of the algorithm. A prospective validation study will be carried out to compare the diagnosis of the reference radiologists for the users attending the primary care center in the Osona region (Spain), with the diagnosis of the ChestEye AI algorithm. Anonymized chest x-ray images will be acquired and fed into the AI algorithm interface, which will return an automatic report. A radiologist will evaluate the same chest x-ray, and both assessments will be compared to calculate the precision, sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the AI algorithm. Results will be represented globally and individually for each pathology using a confusion matrix and the One-vs-All methodology. Patient recruitment was conducted from February 7, 2022, and it is expected that data can be obtained in 5 to 6 months. In June 2022, more than 450 x-rays have been collected, so it is expected that 600 samples will be gathered in July 2022. We hope to obtain sufficient evidence to demonstrate that the use of AI in the reading of chest x-rays can be a good tool for diagnostic support. However, there is a decreasing number of radiology professionals and, therefore, it is necessary to develop and validate tools to support professionals who have to interpret these tests. If the results of the validation of the model are satisfactory, it could be implemented as a support tool and allow an increase in the accuracy and speed of diagnosis, patient safety, and agility in the primary care system, while reducing the cost of unnecessary tests. PRR1-10.2196/39536.