Summary
Tooth loss, decreased mass and strength of the masticatory muscles leading to difficulty in chewing have been suggested as important determinants of eating and nutrition in the elderly. To ...compensate for the loss of teeth, in particular, a majority of the elderly rely on dental prosthesis for chewing. Chewing function is indeed an important aspect of oral health, and therefore, oral rehabilitation procedures should aim to restore or maintain adequate function. However, even if the possibilities to anatomically restore lost teeth and occlusion have never been better; conventional rehabilitation procedures may still fail to optimally restore oral functions. Perhaps this is due to the lack of focus on the importance of the brain in the rehabilitation procedures. Therefore, the aim of this narrative review was to discuss the importance of maintaining or restoring optimum chewing function in the superageing population and to summarise the emerging studies on oral motor task performance and measures of cortical neuroplasticity induced by systematic training paradigms in healthy participants. Further, brain imaging studies in patients undergoing or undergone oral rehabilitation procedures will be discussed. Overall, this information is believed to enhance the understanding and develop better rehabilitative strategies to exploit training‐induced cortical neuroplasticity in individuals affected by impaired oral motor coordination and function. Training or relearning of oral motor tasks could be important to optimise masticatory performance in dental prosthesis users and may represent a much‐needed paradigm shift in the approach to oral rehabilitation procedures.
In the automobile industry, accurate prediction of crashworthiness indicators is important in designing energy absorbing tubes for the protection of occupants. However, the deformation behavior of ...these tubes was found to be affected by the prior manufacturing (forming) process. Hence, it is necessary to incorporate these forming effects in the crash simulation model to improve the accuracy of the simulation results. Therefore the interactive computational approach was used in this research article to account for the forming and crash response of the proposed capped cylindrical tubes. In this procedure, the design of forming tools based on the computer-aided automated computing system is performed first and the results are considered in the multi-stage deep drawing process. Then, the influences of forming parameters of a multi-stage deep drawing process on the axial crushing response of thin-walled capped cylindrical tubes were numerically examined using LS-DYNA follow-on simulations. The residual forming history such as effective plastic strain, thickness variation, and residual stress was mapped to crash simulation models in order to understand the interaction between the forming process and subsequent crash performance of the proposed tubular structures. The capped cylindrical tubes of shell element with a constant thickness of 1.63 mm were also simulated for comparison purpose. The finite element crash model included with forming simulation results caused an increase in the initial peak crushing force by 15–30% over constant thickness tubes. In order to validate the numerical simulation results, experiments were performed. The application of a constitutive crash simulation model considering these forming parameters when studying the axial crushing characteristics of the tubular structures that have experienced earlier forming processes is strongly recommended.
► We present bulk modulus for cubic perovskites with the help of ionic charge theory. ► The proposed model only the lattice parameter is required as input. ► The method turns out to be widely ...applicable.
In this paper, semiempirical formula for the bulk modulus (B in GPa) of perovskite structured solids are elaborated in terms of lattice constant (a in Å) and product of ionic charges (ZaZbZc) of the bonding. Values of bulk modulus, of the group A+1B+2X3, (X=F, Cl, Br), A+2B+4O3 and A+3B+3O3 cubic perovskites exhibit a linear relationship when plotted against the lattice constant (a) normalization, but fall on different straight lines according to the product of ionic charges of the compounds. The resulting expressions can be applied to a broad selection of perovskite (ABX3=A: large cation with different valence, B: transition metal and X: oxides and halides) materials and their modulus predictions are in good agreement with the experimental data and those from ab initio calculations.
•Superhydrophobic coatings were prepared by spin deposition from modified SiO2 and polystyrene.•The durability of the SH coating was confirmed by resistance towards water jet impact.•Influence of ...spin deposited layers on the wettability was precisely studied.•The static & dynamic WCA of 158° and 9° were achieved on the coating surface.•Improved corrosion resistance of MS by superhydrophobic coatings was confirmed by corrosion analysis.
Both surface morphology and surface energy of solid surface conclude its wettability, either in Wenzel’s hydrophobic or Cassie–Baxter’s superhydrophobic wetting state. The superhydrophobic silica coatings were prepared by spin deposition technique from a mixture of hydrophobically modified silica particles and polystyrene. To enhance the adherency of the coating on the substrate and also to improve the durability of the coating, polymer is especially utilized in the coating solution. The durability of the superhydrophobic coating was confirmed by resistency towards water jet impact. The consequence of number of spin deposited layers on the wettability of the coatings was precisely studied. The static and dynamic water contact angle of 158° and 9° were achieved on the coating surface. Freely rolling spherical water drops on the non-wettable solid surface are favourable for the self-cleaning effect and so the prepared superhydrophobic coatings revealed superior self-cleaning performance. An anti-corrosion performance of the superhydrophobic coating was also confirmed using electrochemical corrosion experiments in 3.5% NaCl solution with long immersion time.
Purpose The purpose of this study is to explore the relationship between career competencies and leadership aspiration among women IT/ITeS professionals in South India, examining the mediating ...effects of work role salience and occupational self-efficacy, along with the moderating effect of achievement aspiration. Design/methodology/approach The sample consists of 348 women professionals working in the IT/ITeS industry in South India. The study adopts a descriptive methodology and employs a cross-sectional research design. Findings The result shows that work role salience mediates the relationship between career competencies and leadership aspiration and that this mediation is moderated by achievement aspiration. Additionally, occupational self-efficacy is found to have a supplementary effect on leadership aspiration, further contributing to the model. Research limitations/implications Despite the limitations of online data collection, the study showcases adaptability, providing valuable insights into women's career aspirations. It acknowledges opportunities for future research improvements, such as implementing longitudinal frameworks and incorporating a more diverse sample, to enhance the robustness and applicability of findings. Practical implications The study offers valuable insights for managers, researchers and academia, aiding in the identification of crucial competencies for women aspiring to leadership roles, and fostering the retention of top talent in a diverse and inclusive work environment. Individuals can leverage these insights for enhanced career development by recognizing and emphasizing strengths while addressing weaknesses through accurate self-assessments. Originality/value This study offers a novel perspective by identifying the essential competencies that are crucial for women to achieve leadership positions, thus making a valuable contribution to the existing literature in the field.
Background: Multiple gingival recession (MGR) coverage, especially in esthetic area, demands a high patient satisfaction. Coronally advanced flap modifications, namely Zucchelli's technique (ZT) and ...vestibular incision subperiosteal tunnel access (VISTA), are techniques, recommended in the correction of MGR. Aim: The purpose was to comparatively analyze the ZT and VISTA technique reinforced with the platelet-rich fibrin membrane in the management of MGR. Materials and Methods: This split-mouth, randomized study comprised 16 consenting, systemically healthy participants. The bilateral Miller's multiple class I and II lesions were managed with ZT and VISTA technique and had a follow-up period of 18 months. Gingival thickness (GT), mean percentage of root coverage, and patient-centered outcome scales, including patient comfort score, patient esthetic score, and hypersensitivity score, were the primary outcome measures. Further clinical parameters assessed were gingival index, probing depth, clinical attachment level, and width of keratinized gingiva. Statistical Analysis and Results: Paired t-test and unpaired t-test were used for intragroup comparison and intergroup analysis, respectively. While both the techniques exhibited high root coverage percentage (VISTA: 93.95% and ZT: 96.84%), statistically significant difference was noted with patient esthetic score and surgical mortality score in VISTA. Conclusion: Both ZT and VISTA were effective in terms of root coverage and GT augmentation in MGR management. From the patient's perspective, they preferred VISTA technique over ZT, stating its minimal postoperative morbidity and improved esthetic outcome. Hence, within the limitations of this study, the VISTA technique was found to be a superior alternative compared to that of ZT in MGR management.
ObjectivesTo evaluate pharmacokinetics of first-line antitubercular drugs, isoniazid (INH) and pyrazinamide (PZA), with revised WHO dosages and to assess its adequacy in relation to age and ...nutritional status.DesignObservational study.SettingThis study was conducted at Sarojini Naidu Medical College, Agra, and National Institute for Research in Tuberculosis, Chennai.Patients40 subjects diagnosed with tuberculosis were registered in the study and started on daily first-line antitubercular regimen based on the revised WHO guidelines.InterventionsBlood samples were collected at 0, 2, 4, 6 and 8 hours from these subjects after 15 days of treatment for drug estimations.Main outcome measureThe measurement of drug concentrations (maximum peak concentration (Cmax) and area under the time –concentration curve (AUC0–8 hours)) for INH and PZA. Appropriate statistical methods were used to evaluate the impact of age and nutritional status on pharmacokinetic variables.ResultsFor INH, the difference in drug exposures in children <3 years (Cmax 3.18 µg/mL and AUC0–8 hours15.76 µg/mL hour) and children >3 years (Cmax3.05 µg/mL and AUC0–8 hours 14.37 µg/mL hour) was not significant (P=0.94, P=0.81, respectively). The drug levels in children with low body mass index (BMI) (Cmax3.08 µg/mL; AUC0–8 hours14.81 µg/mL hour) were also comparable with their normal counterparts (Cmax3.09 µg/mL, P=0.99; AUC0–8 hours 14.69 µg/mL hour, P=0.82). PZA drug exposures obtained in children less than 3 years (Cmax29.22 µg/mL, AUC0–8 hours 155.45 µg/mL hour) were significantly lower compared with drug levels in children above 3 years (Cmax 37.12 µg/mL, P=0.03; AUC 202.63 µg/mL hour, P value=0.01). Children with low BMI had significantly lower drug concentrations (Cmax 31.90 µg/mL, AUC0–8 hours167.64 µg/mL hour) when compared with normal counterparts (Cmax 37.60 µg/mL, P=0.02; AUC0–8 hours 208.77 µg/mL hour, P=0.01).ConclusionsThe revised WHO drug dosages were found to be adequate for INH with respect to age and nutritional status, whereas PZA showed significantly lower drug levels in children <3 years and in malnourished children.
Microplastics act as a potential vector for a wide range of contaminants, which have emerged as a major environmental hazard in the modern world. Considering the seriousness of the problem, a ...simulated laboratory and field experiment were conducted to study the weathering of pristine microplastics following long-term exposure to natural background radiation and the marine environment after being disposed of in the open environment. For the study, polyethylene-originating (HDPE and LDPE) microplastics were chosen. The study revealed that radiation exposure causes surface roughness and cracks, leading to an increased surface area, which can invite a wide spectrum of pollutants to sorb on their surface. Furthermore, we report that the radiation-induced morphological changes favor microbial colonization on the microplastic surface when exposed to the marine environment. The growth of biofilms on the surface of microplastics reduces their hydrophobicity, which may attract a wide variety of polar contaminants. The study led to an interesting finding: that the HDPE microplastic surface is more conducive for biofilm growth in comparison to the LDPE surface.
Summary
The visceral leishmaniasis (VL) caused by Leishmania donovani parasite severely affects large populations in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. The arsenal of drugs available is ...limited, and resistance is common in clinical field isolates. Therefore, vaccines could be an important alternative for prevention against VL. Recently, some investigators advocated the protective efficacy of DNA vaccines, which induces the T cell‐based immunity against VL. The vaccine antigens are selected as conserved in various Leishmania species and provide a viable strategy for DNA vaccine development. Our understanding for DNA vaccine development against VL is not enough and much technological advancement is required. Improved formulations and methods of delivery are required, which increase the uptake of DNA vaccine by cells; optimization of vaccine vectors/encoded antigens to augment and direct the host immune response in VL. Despite the many genes identified as vaccine candidates, the disappointing potency of the DNA vaccines in VL underscores the challenges encountered in the efforts to translate efficacy in preclinical models into clinical realities. This review will provide a brief background of DNA vaccines including the insights gained about the design, strategy, safety issues, varied candidates, progress and challenges that play a role in their ability against VL.
Sentiment analysis examines the emotional content of a statement, such as views, assessments, feelings, or attitudes about a topic, human, or object. Emotions can be categorized as either unbiased, ...good, or bad. It determines how people feel about the company online through social media. Based on the sentiments, the problem of solving the stock price prediction model is advantageous as it involves the sentiment score evaluated from the text information. This work introduces a new stock price prediction considering sentiment scores from text info in this concern. For that, we have considered news data and stock data. Moreover, this work falls under bigdata perspective by increasing the data size. The proposed model includes two major steps: feature extraction and prediction. Feature extraction takes place under two scenarios: features from news data and features from stock data. Features like Bag of words, n-Gram, TFIDF, and Improved cosine similarity are extracted from the news data, and features like improved exponential moving average and other existing technical indicator-based features such as ATR, TR are extracted from stock data. Both the feature sets are fused to determine the final prediction results. Particularly, this final observation involves the sentiments from the given news data. For this, optimized LSTM model is used, where the optimal training process will be carried out by a new Harris Hawks Induced Sparrow Search Optimization via tuning the optimal weights. The proposed model is the combination of Harris Hawks Optimization Algorithm and Sparrow Search Algorithm, respectively. Finally, the performance of proposed work will be evaluated over the other conventional models with respect to different measures.
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