D1 Values Research Articles

Serum Levels of Thyroid Hormone, Vitamin B12, Vitamin D3, Folic Acid, and Ferritin in Chalazion

ABSTRACT Purpose To compare serum thyroid hormone, vitamin B12, vitamin D3, folic acid, and ferritin levels between chalazion patients and control. Methods 18–65-year-old chalazion patients and controls were included. The peripheric blood sampling results were investigated. Free triiodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxine (FT4), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), vitamin B12, vitamin D3, folic acid, and ferritin levels of chalazion and control groups were compared. Results The male-to-female ratio was 41/107 in chalazion group and 52/106 in control group (p > .05).The mean age was 37.123 ± 13.252 years (18–65) and 39.912 ± 13.747 years (18–65) in the groups, respectively (p > .05).The mean value of vitamin B12 was 304.894 ± 131.592 pg/mL (122.700–985.300) in chalazion group and 353.200 ± 184.341 pg/mL (134.800–1127.000) in control group (p = .038).The mean values of FT3, FT4, TSH, vitamin D3, folic acid, and ferritin levels were similar between the groups (p > .05 for all). Conclusion This study reports that chalazion patients have less serum vitamin B12 level than healthy subjects.

Determination of Sex and Estimation of Age by Mandibular Basal Bone Height

Aims and Objectives: To assess the age and sex determination through mandibular basal bone heightMaterials and Methods: The study consists of 120 OPG samples, (60 males and 60 females) in the agegroup of 30 to 70 years, hereby the mandibular basal bone height measured as D1 and D2 on OPG’s usingplanmeca romexis software. The distance measured between the lower border of mental foramen to thelower border of the mandible termed as D1. The distance between the lowest point of mandibular canal tothe lower border of the mandible termed as D2. All these measurements were further subjected to statisticalanalysis like independent t-test, correlation and regression analysis to estimate age and to compare thedifferentiation between males and females.Results: Overall the result shows the moderate level of significance, on multiple comparisons between agegroups and sex among the population, it was observed that statistically significant in male with relationto D1 among 61yrs to 70yrs though other age groups show significant with less confidence interval.Female observations failed to show similar results neither with D1 nor with D2. Regression formula for ageestimation and logistic regression for sex determination have been derived.Conclusions: The present study highlighted that the male gender of the mandible can be determined byusing D1 value as it gives significance, thus it can be used as an additional tool to establish the identity ofa gender

The influence of dietary coenzyme Q10 and vitamin C on the growth rate, immunity, oxidative-related genes, and the resistance against Streptococcus agalactiae of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

Dietary coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and vitamin C (Vc) are natural immunostimulants and antioxidants involved in improving the performances and health conditions of aquatic animals. In this context, six diets were formulated and supplemented with CoQ10 and Vc at 0/0 (D1), 0/400 (D2), 0/600 (D3), 20/0 (D4), 20/400 (D5) and 20/600 (D6) mg of CoQ10/Vc per kg diet and fed to Nile tilapia for 56 days. The obtained results displayed higher weight gain, specific growth rate, and feed efficiency ratio in all groups than the control group (D1). Concurrently, feed intake, amylase, lipase, and protease activities were significantly higher in D5 and D6 groups than the other groups (P < 0.05). Conversely, the whole-body crude lipid content was markedly decreased with dietary CoQ10 or/and Vc, and the highest value was in fish fed D1 (P < 0.05). Interestingly, fish fed on D5 and D6 diets exhibited the lowest glucose, cortisol, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and the highest total protein among the other groups (P < 0.05). The lowest activities of serum and mucus lysozyme and bactericidal were found in fish groups fed D1, and the highest values were in groups fed D5 and D6 diets (P < 0.05). In the same line, the antioxidant capacity (superoxide dismutase and catalase) and the related genes (SOD and CAT) displayed the highest values in the group of fish fed on D5 and D6 diets, while the lowest values were in fish fed D1 (P < 0.05). Correspondingly, on the day 14th post-challenge, the relative percentage of survival rate (RPS) of tilapia injected with Streptococcus agalactiae recorded significantly higher RSP values in D2, D3, D4, D5, and D6 groups than the control (D1) group (P < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary CoQ10 and Vc had significant interaction influence on growth performance, feed efficiency, digestive enzyme activity, biochemical blood indices, immune response, and antioxidative capacity. More specifically, the enhanced performances of Nile tilapia by CoQ10 and VC supplements increased their resistance against S. agalactiae infection.

Stable-isotope and fluid inclusion constraints on the timing of diagenetic events in the dolomitized Dolomia Principale inner platform (Norian, Southern Alps of Italy)

The petrographic, cathodoluminescence (CL), stable isotope, and microthermometry investigation of inner platform facies of the pervasively dolomitized carbonate platform of the Norian (Upper Triassic) Dolomia Principale (Southern Alps, N Italy) identified two major dolomite phases. An early replacement fabric-retentive dolomite (D1 and D2, respectively replacing the sedimentary facies - from fenestral mudstone/wackestone to bioclastic packstone and mudstone and stromatolites- and early marine cements) is followed by a later, vug- and fracture-filling dolomite cement phase (D3, planar-s texture).The fabric-retentive dolomitized carbonates (<4 μm−30 μm, D1) and marine fibrous cements (30 μm−250 μm, D2) exhibit dull luminescence under CL whereas the burial dolomite cement (200 μm−500 μm, D3) exhibits zoned luminescence. Microthermometric measurements of the primary two-phase fluid inclusions in D3 yielded a mean homogenization temperature of 112.4 ± 8.2 °C. Supposing a surface seawater temperature of at least 20–25 °C and a geothermal gradient of about 40 °C/km during the Early Jurassic rifting that led to the opening of the Alpine Tethys, such temperature might be reached at reasonable burial depth ranging from 2.0 km to about 2.5 km. According to the subsidence curve this depth, compatible with the temperature recorded by the fluid inclusions, was reached during the Early Jurassic, with D3 cement precipitation causing a significant reduction of the porosity.The δ13C values of the investigated dolomites (D1, D2, and D3) show a narrow range of variation (2.0–3.1‰ VPDB), pointing toward a fluid-buffered system. Differently, the δ18O values largely varies, ranging from −12.8 to +1.9‰ VPDB. In this range, D3 values cluster distinctively between −6.0 to −12.8‰ VPDB with respect to D1 and D2, which cluster from about −4 to +1.9‰ VPDB. The estimated oxygen isotope composition of the parent fluid of D1 and D2 (~0 to −5‰ VSMOW) suggests possible contributions from marine to slightly evaporated seawater, which is consistent with the arid climate and some basin restrictions suggested by earlier studies, whereas that of D3 (+1 to +5‰ VSMOW) is consistent with burial fluids.The followed integrated approach highlights the possibility to better characterize the occurrence of multiple diagenetic events in time and space, as well as their feedback effects on the porosity evolution of dolomitized carbonate reservoirs, framing the diagenetic events at regional scale.

Prevalence of vitamin D3 deficiency in patients with type 2 diabetes and proteinuria

Background/Aim. Vitamin D3 plays an important role in glucose metabolism, with influence on insulin secretion and sensitivity. Low grade inflammation is present in patients with diabetes type 2 and it is a known fact that vitamin D has an anti-inflammatory effect. Vitamin D deficiency is particularly pronounced in patients with diabetic nephropathy. Vitamin D3 levels during the year are associated with seasonal changes primarily influenced by UV radiation. The aim of the study was to examine the prevalence of vitamin D3 deficiency in patients with diabetic nephropathy. Methods. Patients with type 2 diabetes and diabetic nephropathy were included in the study after the vitamin D3 levels were established. The results were classified according to a lower limit level given for each month being reduced or normal values. For the purpose of further research, patients with low vitamin D3 levels were divided into two groups, study and control group, each including 45 patients. The study group received cholecalciferol at the dose necessary to achieve the intended optimal vitamin D3 blood level of 90?100 nmol/L. Results. At the beginning of the study, vitamin D3 value for all patients with vitamin D3 deficiency (n = 90) was 45.1 ? 15.6 nmol /L. Vitamin D3 deficiency in the study sample (n = 109) was found in 82.56% of participants, while the normal values of vitamin D 3 were found in 1 7.43% of patients. There is a statistically significant difference in the deviation of vitamin D3 levels from the lower normal values in the whole group of subjects between winter and summer, with the deviation being more pronounced in summer. There is no gender difference in these values, although in both men and women there is a more pronounced deviation in summer. Conclusion. Vitamin D3 deficiency is significantly represented in patients with type 2 diabetes and diabetic nephropathy.

Delta neutrophil index as a predictive and prognostic factor for Candidemia patients: a matched case-control study

BackgroundDelayed antifungal therapy for candidemia leads to increased mortality. Differentiating bacterial infection from candidemia in systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) patients is complex and difficult. The Delta Neutrophil Index (DNI) has recently been considered a new factor to distinguish infections from non-infections and predict the severity of sepsis. We aimed to assess if the DNI can predict and provide a prognosis for candidemia in SIRS patients.MethodsA matched case-control study was conducted from July 2016 to June 2017 at Kangdong Sacred Heart Hospital. Among patients with a comorbidity of SIRS, those with candidemia were classified as the case group, whereas those with negative blood culture results were classified as the control group. The matching conditions included age, blood culture date, and SIRS onset location. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to evaluate DNI as a predictive and prognostic factor for candidemia.ResultsThe 140 included patients were assigned to each group in a 1:1 ratio. The DNI_D1 values measured on the blood culture date were higher in the case group than in the control group (p < 0.001). The results of multivariate analyses confirmed DNI_D1 (odds ratio [ORs] 2.138, 95% confidential interval [CI] 1.421–3.217, p < 0.001) and Candida colonization as predictive factors for candidemia. The cutoff value of DNI for predicting candidemia was 2.75%. The area under the curve for the DNI value was 0.804 (95% CI, 0.719–0.890, p < 0.001), with a sensitivity and specificity of 72.9 and 78.6%, respectively. Analysis of 14-day mortality in patients with candidemia showed significantly higher DNI_D1 and DNI_48 in the non-survivor group than in the survivor group.ConclusionsDNI was identified as a predictive factor for candidemia in patients with SIRS and a prognostic factor in predicting 14-day mortality in candidemia patients. DNI, along with clinical patient characteristics, was useful in determining the occurrence of candidemia in patients with SIRS.

Differential Expression and Prognostic Value of Cytoplasmic and Nuclear Cyclin D1 in Prostate Cancer

Cyclin D1 (CCND1) has been revealed as a key regulating protein in cell cycle (G1 phase) and plays a critical role in promoting tumor development. The purpose of our study was to investigate the associations between CCND1 and biochemical recurrence of prostate cancer (PCa). We performed immunostaining of CCND1 on a tissue microarray and evaluated the CCND1 expression levels based on the intensity and extent of staining. The clinical data was collected, and the follow-up data was received by searching our follow-up database called “PC-follow”. We revealed that CCND1 expression patterns were different between cytoplasm and nucleus in this study, and the expression of CCND1 in adjacent normal tissues was higher than that in PCa tissues (P < 0.001), while nuclear CCND1 showed the opposite distribution characteristic (P < 0.001). The cytoplasmic CCND1 also showed correlation with several clinical factors, e.g., tumor T stage (P < 0.001), Gleason score (P = 0.028), positive surgical margin (P = 0.037), and capsule invasion (P = 0.04). We also revealed that cytoplasmic CCND1 is a protective prognostic factor in the biochemical recurrence (BCR) free time analysis (P = 0.002). However, the nuclear CCND1 showed no correlation with clinical factors or prognostic value in this study. This study found that cytoplasmic and nuclear CCND1 have significant different expression patterns in PCa tissues, and cytoplasmic CCND1 has a certain prognostic value in the BCR analysis.

Correlations between the Quality of Life Domains and Clinical Variables in Sarcopenic Osteoporotic Postmenopausal Women.

(1) Background: both sarcopenia and osteoporosis are major health problems in postmenopausal women. The aim of the study was to evaluate the quality of life (QoL) and the associated factors for sarcopenia in osteoporotic postmenopausal women, diagnosed according to EWGSOP2 criteria. (2) Methods: the study sample comprised 122 osteoporotic postmenopausal women with low hand grip strength and was divided into two groups: group 1 (probable sarcopenia) and group 2 (sarcopenia). QoL was assessed using the validated Romanian version of SarQol questionnaire. (3) Results: the D1, D4, D5, D7 and total SarQoL scores were significantly lower in women from group 2 compared to group 1. In group 2, women older than 70 years had significant lower values for D1, D3, D4, D6 and total SarQoL scores. Age, history of falls and the presence of confirmed and severe sarcopenia were predictors for overall QoL. (4) Conclusions: the frequency of sarcopenia was relatively high in our sample, with body mass index and history of falls as predictors for sarcopenia. Older osteoporotic postmenopausal women, with previous falls and an established sarcopenia diagnosis (low muscle strength and low muscle mass), were more likely to have a decreased quality of life.

Quantum chemical investigation of modified coumarin-based organic efficient sensitizers for optoelectronic applications

One of the most major features in the improvement of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) is the survey and plan of high-efficiency and low-cost dyes. In this paper, a new series of metal-free coumarin-based (NKX-2311) dye molecules, namely (D1–D4) are investigated for use in DSSC applications. The dye molecules contain three parts, electron-donor (D) connected by the π-conjugated linker as a spacer and electron-acceptor (A)/anchoring group. Molecular structure, electronic absorption spectra and photovoltaic (PV) parameters of the D1–D4 dyes have been performed by using density functional theory (DFT) and time-dependent DFT (TD-DFT) approaches are employed. The effects of chemical modification on the spectra and PV properties of the coumarin-modified organic dyes have been revealed. The performance of three functionals (B3LYP, CAM-B3LYP and ωB97XD) has been evaluated to get an experimental absorption wavelength of NKX-2311. From the functionals, B3LYP method was better matched with the absorption wavelength of NKX-2311. Therefore, D1–D4 dye molecules excited state calculations of the absorption spectra have been investigated by using B3LYP functional with 6-31G(d) basis set. The results show that D1, D3 dyes are smaller energy gap and absorption spectra are systematically red-shifts. The theoretical results have a display that the lowest occupied molecular orbitals (LUMOs) and highest occupied molecular orbitals (HOMOs) of the D1–D4 dyes can be confirming positive response on the electron injection and dye regeneration process. The NLO property of the D1–D4 dyes can be derived as polarizability and first-order hyperpolarizability. The calculated values of D1 and D3 dyes are the best applicants for NLO performance. The conclusion of this study will deliver a useful reference to the future proposal and beneficial to get DSSCs with superior power conversion efficiency (PCE).

Simulation of non-resonant stellarator divertor

An efficient numerical method of studying nonresonant stellarator divertors was introduced in Boozer and Punjabi [Phys. Plasmas 25, 092505 (2018)]. This method is used in this paper to study a different magnetic field model of a nonresonant divertor. The most novel and interesting finding of this study is that diffusive magnetic field lines can be distinguished from lines that exit through the primary and the secondary turnstile, and that below some diffusive velocity, all lines exit through only the primary turnstile. The footprints of each family are stellarator symmetric and have a fixed location on the wall for all velocities. The probability exponent of the primary turnstile is d1 = 9/4 and that of the secondary turnstile is d2 = −3/2. This study also addresses the issues of an inadequate separation of the chamber walls from the outermost confining magnetic surface and a marginal step size of the numerical integrations that could compromise the interpretation of the earlier results [Boozer and Punjabi, Phys. Plasmas 25, 092505 (2018)]. The previous value of d1 = 2 is within the error bar of d1 = 9/4 estimated here.

The relationship between serum vitamin D level &amp; chronic periodontitis in patients attending Khanzad center in Erbil city

Background and objectives: Chronic periodontitis is multifactorial infectious disease with high prevalence among different population with many risk factors. Vitamin D seems to have a protective anti-inflammatory role in periodontal disease. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of serum vitamin D3 level on periodontal health in Erbil city. Methods:Eighty-two patients were recruited in the Khanzad center; in Erbil city- Kurdistan region- Iraq. They were di- vided into 48 patients with chronic periodontitis patient (26 males &amp; 22 females) &amp; 34 subjects with non – periodontitis (8 males &amp; 26 females). Periodontal examination including plaque index, gingival index, pocket depth &amp; clinical attach- ment loss were measured for all patients. At the day of periodontal examination, patients sent to central laboratory where blood drowns for serum vitamin D3 estimation. Results:The mean serum vitamin D3 value (mean ± Std) was 13.5 ± 9.2 &amp; 12.8 ±7.2 in chronic periodontitis group &amp; non-periodontitis group respectively which was statistically not significant,34 subjects (41.4%) of the participant had sever deficiency while only 2 patients in a study group (2.4%) had sufficient level of serum vitamin D3. The mean plaque index &amp; gingival index in chronic periodontitis group were 1.96± 6 &amp; 2.16 ± 54 respectively, while in non-periodontitis group, they were 1.24 ± 42 &amp; 1.32± 28 respectively, there were sta tistically significant differences regarding both periodontal parameters between both groups. Conclusion: The relationship between vitamin D deficiency &amp; chronic periodontitis was not determined in a sample in Erbil City.

Prognostic Significance of Cyclin D1 Expression in Renal Cell Carcinoma: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Previous studies indicated that cyclin D1 shown the potential as a tumor biomarker. However, the prognostic value of cyclin D1 in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) remains controversial. This study investigated the correlation of cyclin D1 expression with the prognostic and clinicopathological features in RCC patients. We systematically searched the database of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science updated on November 26, 2017. Eighteen studies with 2282 patients satisfied the inclusion criteria. Results demonstrated that cyclin D1 overexpression in RCC showed significant favorable prognostic impact on disease-free survival (DFS) (HR 0.57, 95% CI: 0.43-0.74) and disease-specific survival (DSS) (HR 0.59, 95% CI 0.41-0.85) without significant heterogeneity. In subgroup of clear cell RCC, the prognostic effect on DFS was robust and the pooled HR was 0.39 (95% CI: 0.27-0.57). However, no association between overall survival (OS) and cyclin D1 expression was observed. Stratified analysis in DFS studies by sample size, staining patterns race and metastasis status showed similar results. Otherwise, cyclin D1 overexpression predicted a reduced prevalence of high TNM stage (T3 + T4) (OR 0.63, 95% CI: 0.40-0.99), high-grade tumor (G3 + G4) (OR 0.51, 95% CI: 0.31-0.81) and large tumor size (OR 0.35, 95% CI: 0.19-0.62). Our meta-analysis indicated that cyclin D1 overexpression could predict the favorable prognosis in patients with RCC.

Fractal analysis and pore structure of gasification fine slag and its flotation residual carbon

Gasification fine slag is a kind of solid waste, and there is a large number of fine slags need to be recycled and reused for environmental consideration. The froth flotation kinetics experiment was adopted to recycle the residual carbon, carbon recovery percentage of 52.65% and the loss on ignition (LOI) of 64.47% were obtained. The pore structure and fractal characteristics of fine slag and its flotation residual carbon are essential factors which will influence their physical and chemical properties, including mechanical, adsorption and fuel properties and it is imperative to understand these parameters. In this study, BET, HK, BJH and FHH models of low-temperature N2 adsorption/desorption were used to compare the differences of specific surface area, pore size/volume and fractal characteristics among samples, respectively. As a result, there are larger surface area and fractal dimension value (D), smaller pore volume and average pore diameter of fine slag than that of flotation residual carbon, which is caused by the spherical-ash particles covering the surface and pores of the rough carbon matrix. Comparing the fine slag and flotation residual carbon, surface area decreases from 145 to 111 m2/g, pore volume increases from 0.1288 to 0.1833 cm3/g, and average pore width increases from 5.2141 to 6.0436 nm. Moreover, the values of D2 and D1 decreased by 6.77% and 2.89%, correspondingly. From the perspective of energy utilization, the HHV value of gasification fine slag is elevated from 6.22 to 19.48 MJ/kg after flotation kinetics process and LOI value increases from 24.49 to 64.47% respectively. TGA shows that the flotation residual carbon has better reactivity than raw fine slag. Froth flotation is an efficient approach to recycle residual carbon from fine slag, while the low-temperature N2 adsorption/desorption technology can be innovatively applied to characterize the pore structure and fractal characteristics of gasified fine slag.

Aharonov-Bohm-effect induced transparency and reflection in mesoscopic rings side coupled to a quantum wire

We demonstrate analytically and numerically the possibility of existence of the analogues of electromagnetic induced transparency (EIT) and electromagnetic induced reflection (EIR) in a simple mesoscopic structure. The latter consists of a ring of length 2d attached vertically to two semi-infinite leads (waveguide) by a wire of length d1. The ring is threaded by a magnetic flux Φ, the so-called Aharonov-Bohm effect. The number of dangling wire-ring resonators attached at the same point can be increased to N. First, we demonstrate analytically that in the absence of the magnetic flux (Φ=0) and for particular values of d1, the structure may present some states that are confined in the ring and do not interact with the waveguide states. These trapped states fall in the continuum states of the two leads and therefore represent bound in continuum (BIC) states. These states are characterized by a zero width resonance (i.e., infinite life-time) in the transmission and reflection spectra. In presence of a weak magnetic flux (Φ≠0), the BIC states transform to EIT or EIR resonances for specific values of the lengths d1and d of the wire and the ring respectively. In addition to the numerical results, we have developed Taylor expansion calculations of the transmission and reflection coefficients around EIT and EIR resonances to show that the latter can be written following a Fano shape. In particular, we have deduced the Fano parameter q and the quality factor Q of these resonances as function of N and the flux Φ. We have found that Q decreases as function of Φ for both EIT and EIR resonances, whereas it increases (decreases) as function of N for EIT (EIR) resonances. These results show the possibility of tuning EIT and EIR resonances by means of the magnetic flux Φ and the number of dangling resonators N. The effect of temperature on EIT and EIR resonances is also considered through an analysis of the Landauer-Buttiker conductance formula obtained from transmission. The theoretical results are obtained within the framework of the Green's function method which enables us to deduce analytically the dispersion relation, transmission and reflection coefficients. These results may have important applications for electronic transport in mesoscopic systems such as filters and demultiplexers.

Full-Scale Pore Structure and Fractal Dimension of the Longmaxi Shale from the Southern Sichuan Basin: Investigations Using FE-SEM, Gas Adsorption and Mercury Intrusion Porosimetry

Pore structure determines the gas occurrence and storage properties of gas shale and is a vital element for reservoir evaluation and shale gas resources assessment. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), high-pressure mercury intrusion porosimetry (HMIP), and low-pressure N2/CO2 adsorption were used to qualitatively and quantitatively characterize full-scale pore structure of Longmaxi (LM) shale from the southern Sichuan Basin. Fractal dimension and its controlling factors were also discussed in our study. Longmaxi shale mainly developed organic matter (OM) pores, interparticle pores, intraparticle pores, and microfracture, of which the OM pores dominated the pore system. The pore diameters are mainly distributed in the ranges of 0.4–0.7 nm, 2–20 nm and 40–200 μm. Micro-, meso- and macropores contribute 24%, 57% and 19% of the total pore volume (PV), respectively, and 64.5%, 34.6%, and 0.9% of the total specific surface area (SSA). Organic matter and clay minerals have a positive contribution to pore development. While high brittle mineral content can inhibit shale pore development. The fractal dimensions D1 and D2 which represents the roughness of the shale surface and irregularity of the space structure, respectively, are calculated based on N2 desorption data. The value of D1 is in the range of 2.6480–2.7334 (average of 2.6857), D2 is in the range of 2.8924–2.9439 (average of 2.9229), which indicates that Longmaxi shales have a rather irregular pore morphology as well as complex pore structure. Both PV and SSA positively correlated with fractal dimensions D1 and D2. The fractal dimension D1 decreases with increasing average pore diameter, while D2 is on the contrary. These results suggest that the small pores have a higher roughness surface, while the larger pores have a more complex spatial structure. The fractal dimensions of shale are jointly controlled by OM, clays and brittle minerals. The TOC content is the key factor which has a positive correlation with the fractal dimension. Clay minerals have a negative influence on fractal dimension D1, and positive influence D2, while brittle minerals show an opposite effect compared with clay minerals.

Primary Stability Optimization by Using Fixtures with Different Thread Depth According To Bone Density: A Clinical Prospective Study on Early Loaded Implants.

Background: Macro- and micro-geometry are among the factors influencing implant stability and potentially determining loading protocol. The purpose of this study was to test a protocol for early loading by controlling implant stability with the selection of fixtures with different thread depth according to the bone density of the implant site. Materials and Methods: Patients needing implant therapy for fixed prosthetic rehabilitation were treated by inserting fixtures with four different thread diameters, selected based on clinical assessment of bone quality at placement (D1, D2, D3, and D4, according to Misch classification). Final insertion torque (IT) and implant stability quotient (ISQ) were recorded at baseline and ISQ measurements repeated after one, two, three, and four weeks. At the three-week measurement (four weeks after implant replacement), implants with ISQ > 70 Ncm were functionally loaded with provisional restorations. Marginal bone level was radiographically measured 12 months after implant insertion. Results: Fourteen patients were treated with the insertion of forty implants: Among them, 39 implants showing ISQ > 70 after 3 weeks of healing were loaded with provisional restoration. Mean IT value was 82.3 ± 33.2 Ncm and varied between the four different types of bone (107.2 ± 35.6 Ncm, 74.7 ± 14.0 Ncm, 76.5 ± 31.1 Ncm, and 55.2 ± 22.6 Ncm in D1, D2, D3, and D4 bone, respectively). Results showed significant differences except between D2 and D3 bone types. Mean ISQ at baseline was 79.3 ± 4.3 and values in D1, D2, D3, and D4 bone were 81.9 ± 2.0, 81.1 ± 1.0, 78.3 ± 3.7, and 73.2 ± 4.9, respectively. Results showed significant differences except between D1 and D2 bone types. IT and ISQ showed a significant positive correlation when analyzing the entire sample (p = 0.0002) and D4 bone type (p = 0.0008). The correlation between IT and ISQ was not significant when considering D1, D2, and D3 types (p = 0.28; p = 0.31; p = 0.16, respectively). ISQ values showed a slight drop at three weeks for D1, D2, and D3 bone while remaining almost unchanged in D4 bone. At 12-month follow-up, all implants (39 early loading, 1 conventional loading) had satisfactory function, showing an average marginal bone loss of 0.12 ± 0.12 mm, when compared to baseline levels. Conclusion: Matching implant macro-geometry to bone density can lead to adequate implant stability both in hard and soft bone. High primary stability and limited implant stability loss during the first month of healing could allow the application of early loading protocols with predictable clinical outcomes.

Relation of Experimental Features of P-Even, T-Odd Asymmetries in Ternary Nuclear Fission Induced by Cold Polarized Neutrons to Triple and Quintuple Scalar Correlations

In employing the concept of the isotropy of space, the coefficients D of P-even, T-odd asymmetry in the angular distributions of prescission alpha particles emitted as third particles in the ternary fission of nonoriented target nuclei that is induced by polarized cold neutrons are expressed in the lowest orders of perturbation theory in the neutron polarization vector in terms of two P-even scalar coefficients D3 and D5 associated with, respectively, triple and quintuple correlations depending on the unit vectors kα, kLF, and σn, which determine the features of the coefficients being studied. On the basis of the above representation, the experimental values of the coefficients D3 and D5 are determined by using the experimental values of D and the angular distributions of alpha particles emitted in the analogous reaction induced by unpolarized neutrons. The resulting coefficients D3 and D5 are compared with the analogous coefficients found by means of the classical method of trajectory calculations and by means of quantum-mechanical fission theory relying on the concept that it is the rotational mechanism that is responsible for the appearance of the asymmetries being studied. It turns out that the classical method, which disregards the interference between fission amplitudes for different S-wave neutron resonances, leads to an irremovable contradiction between the calculated coefficient D3 and the analogous experimental coefficient for the 233U target nucleus. In the case of employing the quantum-mechanical approach, it is concluded that three-body calculations of the Coriolis interaction—perturbed amplitude of the angular distributions of alpha particles moving in the Coulomb fields of fission fragments are required for the 233U target nucleus.

Nanoscale pore structure and fractal characteristics of the continental Yanchang Formation Chang 7 shale in the southwestern Ordos Basin, central China

AbstractShales from the Yanchang Formation Chang 7 Member in the Ordos Basin are among the most important shale reservoirs in China and have been investigated due to their great potential. Knowledge of pore structure is important for understanding the storage capacity and flow mechanism in shale reservoirs. In this study, eight shale samples were collected from the Yanchang Formation Chang 7 Member in the southwestern Ordos Basin, and their geochemistry, mineral compositions, pore structure, and fractal characteristics were investigated based on X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, total organic carbon (TOC) analysis, low‐pressure adsorption/desorption analysis, thermal maturity analysis, and fractal analysis. The results indicated that the TOC content ranged between 0.48% and 2.37%, and the Ro values varied from 0.826% to 1.217%. The major mineral compositions were quartz and clay minerals. Nitrogen adsorption/desorption analysis indicated that the isotherms were similar for all collected shale samples from the Chang 7 Member and resembled the type IV isotherm. Narrow slit‐like pore was the dominant pore type, and the pore size distribution appeared to be unimodal with its peak mainly around 40 nm. Investigation of factors for pore structures showed that the TOC content was the controlling factor for the Chang 7 shales. The Frenkel‐Halsey‐Hill (FHH) method was applied to determine fractal dimensions, which were calculated as the D1 (relative pressure &gt;0.96), D2 (0.96 &gt;relative pressure &gt;0.45), and D3 (0.45 &gt;relative pressure) values, ranging in the intervals of 2.788~2.854, 2.547~2.688, and 2.410~2.567, respectively. The relatively high fractal dimensions indicated that pore structures were complicated, and the higher D1 values suggested that pores with larger sizes showed a rougher pore surface and more complex pore structure. Fractal dimensions showed positive correlations with the contents of TOC and clay minerals, and a negative relationship with the quartz contents.

Geochemical attributes, pore structures and fractal characteristics of Barakar shale deposits of Mand-Raigarh Basin, India

Pore structures in the shale matrix are an essential factor affecting the storage capacity of gas of shale beds as well as production performance. Twenty organic-rich shale samples at different depths were collected from Barakar Formation of Mand-Raigarh basin, to examine the pore structure and their fractal characteristic. Fractal dimension was calculated by following FHH theory to investigate the complexity of pore surfaces, storage mechanism and the pore network system. The complex pore system influenced by thermal cracking of organic matter, pore dissolution during geochemical weathering and tectonics of the basins having surface area 5.56–23.94 m2/g (avg. 14.21 m2/g). Whereas, the pore volume determined using the BJH model varying from 0.035 to 0.076 cc/g (avg. 0.053 cc/g). FTIR spectrum demonstrated that significant presence of aliphatic side chains and aromatic carbon structures existing in studied shale influencing the pore volume. It is summarized that pores and matrix of shale are built by complex mixtures of organic and inorganic content. Further, the pores are categorized into organic pores evolved during thermal cracking, inter-granular, intra-granular and inter-crystalline due to the large content of altered clays and minerals showing fissile nature. The SEM-EDX derived facies indicating the involvement of different chemical constituents following the trend of alteration as well as carbon enrichment. The D1 and D2 values obtained through FHH model range from 1.17 to 2.45 and 2.54–2.70, the fractal values particularly D2 are ∼3 demonstrating the pore surfaces and structure of studied shales beds are complex and heterogeneous. This study helps to enhance the exploration and advancement in the shale gas resources from Ib-River of Mand-Raigarh Basin, India.

Factors Associated with the Occurrence of Thyroid Nodules in Severely Obese Patients: A Case-Control Study

Background:The association of obesity with the occurrence of thyroid nodules and thyroid cancer has been demonstrated. However, there is limited knowledge on the risk factors of thyroid nodules in in severely obese patients. The aim was to evaluate the occurrence of thyroid nodules in severely obese and nonobese patients and determine the factors associated considering sociodemographic, lifestyle, and biochemical variables.Methods:This is a case-control study of 134 adults which 67 nonobese, control group, and 67 severely obese (BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2), case group. All participants underwent thyroid ultrasound.Results:The occurrence of thyroid nodules in a control group was 13.4% (n = 9), while in a case group was 29.9%, n = 20), difference statistically significant (p = 0.017). Factors associated with the occurrence of thyroid nodules in severely obese patients were lower mean age (p = 0.022); higher economic class (p = 0.010); nonconsumption of alcohol (p = 0.017); higher fasting glycemia (p = 0.009), fasting insulin (p = 0.001), homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance [HOMA-IR] (p = 0.045), and triglyceride (p = 0.009) mean values; and lower vitamin D3 (p = 0.045) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (p = 0.041) mean values.Conclusions:Occurrence of thyroid nodules in severely obese patients was higher than nonobese. Lower age at diagnosis, higher economic level, nonconsumption of alcohol, hyperinsulinemia, higher HOMA-IR scores, and lower vitamin D3 levels were factors associated with the occurrence of thyroid nodules in severely obese patients.