bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Curriculum reform-necessity for emerging VUCA worlds to enhance pre-service teachers’ pedagogy
Authors: Moloi Tshepang Jacob , Moloi Tshele John
Published: October 2024

The economic meltdowns across countries are exacerbated by COVID-19 and its aftermath, which bear the brunt of perennial devastations characterised by abject poverty. Although somewhat peculiar, higher institutions of education (HIE) have modified learning and teaching strategies to accommodate the deleterious effects of COVID-19. Conversely, while adapting, the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) necessitates that HIE reprioritises a plethora of factors, including pedagogies. This approach catalyses the comprehension of volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) environments in economic sectors. Hence, this paper aims to evaluate the use of pre-service teachers’ AI skills and digital pedagogy at universities to determine the need to reform the curriculum for the purposes of navigating the VUCA world. Likewise, critical theory is utilised to understand the necessity of digital skills for pre-service teachers to enable HIE’s adaptation to VUCA environments. This mixed-method study involves purposively sampling 12 participants for interviews and randomly sampling 78 participants for surveys. Using critical discourse analysis, the data is analysed to postulate nuances of perspectives. The findings depict that, despite universities adapting to innovative methods, particularly AI, there is a paucity of AI content and infrastructural development that enables pre-service teachers to acquire the digital competencies and skills needed to teach robotics, coding, and maritime studies. Overall, digital skills are below average; hence, the paper recommends that universities reform their curricula to stimulate digital skills that reflect the requisite capabilities of digitalisation and AI to withstand the VUCA world.
The SDSS-V Local Volume Mapper (LVM): Scientific Motivation and Project Overview
Authors: Drory Niv , Blanc Guillermo A. , Kreckel Kathryn , Sánchez Sebastián F. , Mejía-Narváez Alfredo , Johnston Evelyn J. , Jones Amy M. , Pellegrini Eric W. , Konidaris Nicholas P. , Herbst Tom , Sánchez-Gallego José , Kollmeier Juna A. , de Almeida Florence , Barrera-Ballesteros Jorge K. , Bizyaev Dmitry , Brownstein Joel R. , i Saguer Mar Canal , Cherinka Brian , Cioni Maria-Rosa L. , Congiu Enrico , Cosens Maren , Dias Bruno , Donor John , Egorov Oleg , Egorova Evgeniia , Froning Cynthia S. , García Pablo , Glover Simon C. O. , Greve Hannah , Häberle Maximilian , Hoy Kevin , Ibarra Hector , Li Jing , Klessen Ralf S. , Krishnarao Dhanesh , Kumari Nimisha , Long Knox S. , Méndez-Delgado José Eduardo , Popa Silvia Anastasia , Ramirez Solange , Rix Hans-Walter , Sánchez Aurora Mata , Sankrit Ravi , Sattler Natascha , Sayres Conor , Singh Amrita , Stringfellow Guy , Wachter Stefanie , Watkins Elizabeth Jayne , Wong Tony , Wofford Aida
Published: October 2024

We present the Sloan Digital Sky Survey V Local Volume Mapper (LVM). The LVM is an integral-field spectroscopic survey of the Milky Way, Magellanic Clouds, and a sample of local volume galaxies, connecting resolved parsec-scale individual sources of feedback to kiloparsec-scale ionized interstellar medium (ISM) properties. The 4 yr survey covers the southern Milky Way disk at spatial resolutions of 0.05–1 pc, the Magellanic Clouds at 10 pc resolution, and nearby large galaxies at larger scales totaling >4300 deg2 of sky and more than 55M spectra. It utilizes a new facility of alt–alt mounted siderostats feeding 16 cm refractive telescopes, lenslet-coupled fiber optics, and spectrographs covering 3600–9800 Å at R ∼ 4000. The ultra-wide-field integral-field unit has a diameter of 0.°5 with 1801 hexagonally packed fibers of 35.″3 apertures. The siderostats allow for a completely stationary fiber system, avoiding instability of the line-spread function seen in traditional fiber feeds. Scientifically, LVM resolves the regions where energy, momentum, and chemical elements are injected into the ISM at the scale of gas clouds, while simultaneously charting where energy is being dissipated (via cooling, shocks, turbulence, bulk flows, etc.) to global scales. This combined local and global view enables us to constrain physical processes regulating how stellar feedback operates and couples to galactic kinematics and disk-scale structures, such as the bar and spiral arms, as well as gas in- and outflows.
IGRINS Observations of WASP-127 b: H2O, CO, and Super-solar Atmospheric Metallicity in the Inflated Sub-Saturn
Authors: Kanumalla Krishna , Line Michael R. , Weiner Mansfield Megan , Welbanks Luis , Smith Peter C. B. , Bean Jacob L. , Pino Lorenzo , Brogi Matteo , Panwar Vatsal
Published: October 2024

High-resolution spectroscopy of exoplanet atmospheres provides insights into their composition and dynamics from the resolved line shape and depth of thousands of spectral lines. WASP-127 b is an extremely inflated sub-Saturn (R
p = 1.311 R
Jup, M
p = 0.16 M
Jup) with previously reported detections of H2O and CO2. However, the seeming absence of the primary carbon reservoir expected at WASP-127 b temperatures (T
eq ∼1400 K) from chemical equilibrium, CO, posed a mystery. In this manuscript, we present the analysis of high-resolution observations of WASP-127 b with the Immersion Grating Infrared Spectrometer on Gemini South. We confirm the presence of H2O (8.67σ) and report the detection of CO (4.34σ). Additionally, we conduct a suite of Bayesian retrieval analyses covering a hierarchy of model complexity and self-consistency. When freely fitting for the molecular gas volume mixing ratios, we obtain super-solar metal enrichment for H2O abundance of log10
X

H

2

O

= −1.23

−
0.49

+
0.29

and a lower limit on the CO abundance of log10
X
CO ≥–2.20 at 2σ confidence. We also report tentative evidence of photochemistry in WASP-127 b based upon the indicative depletion of H2S. This is also supported by the data preferring models with photochemistry over free-chemistry and thermochemistry. The overall analysis implies a super-solar (∼39× Solar; [M/H] =

1.59

−
0.30

+
0.30

) metallicity for the atmosphere of WASP-127 b and an upper limit on its atmospheric C/O ratio as < 0.68.
Gaspery: Optimized Scheduling of Radial Velocity Follow-up Observations for Active Host Stars
Authors: Lam Christopher , Bedell Megan , Zhao Lily L. , Gupta Arvind F. , Ballard Sarah A.
Published: October 2024

Radial velocity (RV) follow-up is a critical complement of transiting exoplanet surveys like the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite, both for validating discoveries of exoplanets and measuring their masses. Stellar activity introduces challenges to interpreting these measurements because the noise from the host star, which is often correlated in time, can result in high RV uncertainty. A robust understanding of stellar activity and how its timescales interact with the observing cadence can optimize limited RV resources. For this reason, in the era of oversubscribed, high-precision RV measurements, folding stellar activity timescales into the scheduling of observation campaigns is ideal. We present gaspery, an open-source code implementation to enable the optimization of RV observing strategies. Gaspery employs a generalized formulation of the Fisher information for RV time series, which also incorporates information about stellar correlated noise. We show that the information contained in an observing strategy can be significantly affected by beat frequencies between the orbital period of the planet, the stellar rotation period, and the observation epochs. We investigate how the follow-up observing strategy will affect the resulting RV uncertainty, as a function of stellar properties such as the spot decay timescale and rotation period. We then describe two example use cases for gaspery: (1) calculating the minimum number of observations to reach an uncertainty tolerance in a correlated noise regime and (2) finding an optimal strategy given a fixed observing budget. Finally, we outline a prescription for selecting an observing strategy that is generalizable to different targets.
Contemporaneous X-Ray Observations of 30 Bright Radio Bursts from the Prolific Fast Radio Burst Source FRB 20220912A
Authors: Cook Amanda M. , Scholz Paul , Pearlman Aaron B. , Abbott Thomas C. , Cruces Marilyn , Gaensler B. M. , Dong Fengqiu Adam , Michilli Daniele , Eadie Gwendolyn , Kaspi Victoria M. , Stairs Ingrid , Tan Chia Min , Bhardwaj Mohit , Cassanelli Tomas , Curtin Alice P. , Ibik Adaeze L. , Lazda Mattias , Masui Kiyoshi W. , Pandhi Ayush , Rafiei-Ravandi Masoud , Sammons Mawson W. , Shin Kaitlyn , Smith Kendrick , Stenning David C.
Published: October 2024

We present an extensive contemporaneous X-ray and radio campaign performed on the repeating fast radio burst (FRB) source FRB 20220912A for 8 weeks immediately following the source’s detection by CHIME/FRB. This includes X-ray data from XMM-Newton, NICER, and Swift, and radio detections of FRB 20220912A from CHIME/Pulsar and Effelsberg. We detect no significant X-ray emission at the time of 30 radio bursts with upper limits on a 0.5–10.0 keV X-ray fluence of (1.5–14.5) × 10−10 erg cm−2 (99.7% credible interval, unabsorbed) on a timescale of 100 ms. Translated into a fluence ratio η
x/r = F
X-ray/F
radio, this corresponds to η
x/r < 7 × 106. For persistent emission from the location of FRB 20220912A, we derive a 99.7% 0.5–10.0 keV isotropic flux limit of 8.8 × 10−15 erg cm−2 s−1 (unabsorbed) or an isotropic luminosity limit of 1.4 × 1041 erg s−1 at a distance of 362.4 Mpc. We derive a hierarchical extension to the standard Bayesian treatment of low-count and background-contaminated X-ray data, which allows the robust combination of multiple observations. This methodology allows us to place the best (lowest) 99.7% credible interval upper limit on an FRB η
x/r to date, η
x/r < 2 × 106, assuming that all 30 detected radio bursts are associated with X-ray bursts with the same fluence ratio. If we instead adopt an X-ray spectrum similar to the X-ray burst observed contemporaneously with FRB-like emission from the Galactic magnetar SGR 1935+2154 detected on 2020 April 28, we derive a 99.7% credible interval upper limit on η
x/r of 8 × 105, which is only 3 times the observed value of η
x/r for SGR 1935+2154.
Spectral Calculations of 3D Radiation Magnetohydrodynamic Simulations of Super-Eddington Accretion onto a Stellar-mass Black Hole
Authors: Mills Brianna S. , Davis Shane W. , Jiang 姜 Yan-Fei 燕飞 , Middleton Matthew J.
Published: October 2024

We use the Athena++ Monte Carlo (MC) radiation transfer module to postprocess simulation snapshots from nonrelativistic Athena++ radiation magnetohydrodynamic (RMHD) simulations. These simulations were run using a gray (frequency-integrated) approach but were also restarted and ran with a multigroup approach that accounts for Compton scattering with a Kompaneets operator. These simulations produced moderately super-Eddington accretion rates onto a 6.62 M
⊙ black hole. Since we only achieve inflow equilibrium out to 20–25 gravitational radii, we focus on the hard X-ray emission. We provide a comparison between the MC and RMHD simulations, showing that the treatment of Compton scattering in the gray RMHD simulations underestimates the gas temperature in the funnel regions above and below the accretion disk. In contrast, the restarted multigroup snapshots provide a treatment for the radiation field that is more consistent with the MC calculations, and result in postprocessed spectra with harder X-ray emission compared to their gray snapshot counterparts. We characterize these MC postprocessed spectra using commonly employed phenomenological spectral fitting models. We also attempt to fit our MC spectra directly to observations of the ultraluminous X-ray source (ULX) NGC 1313 X-1, finding best-fit values that are competitive to phenomenological model fits, indicating that first principle models of super-Eddington accretion may adequately explain the observed hard X-ray spectra in some ULX sources.
Prior-informed Active Galactic Nucleus Host Spectral Decomposition Using PyQSOFit
Authors: Ren Wenke , Guo Hengxiao , Shen Yue , Silverman John D. , Burke Colin J. , Wang Shu , Wang Junxian
Published: October 2024

We introduce an improved method for decomposing the emission of active galactic nuclei (AGN) and their host galaxies using templates from principal component analysis (PCA). This approach integrates prior information from PCA with a penalized pixel fitting mechanism that improves the precision and effectiveness of the decomposition process. Specifically, we have reduced the degeneracy and overfitting in AGN host decomposition, particularly for those with low signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs), where traditional methods tend to fail. By applying our method to 76,565 Sloan Digital Sky Survey Data Release 16 quasars with z < 0.8, we achieve a success rate of ≈94%, thus establishing the largest host-decomposed spectral catalog of quasars to date. Our fitting results consider the impact of the host galaxy on the overestimation of the AGN luminosity and black hole mass (M
BH). Furthermore, we obtained stellar velocity dispersion (σ
⋆) measurements for 4137 quasars. The slope of the M
BH−σ
⋆ relation in this subsample is generally consistent with previous quasar studies beyond the local Universe. Our method provides a robust and efficient approach to disentangle the AGN and host galaxy components across a wide range of SNRs and redshifts.
Accretion and Outflow in Orion-KL Source I
Authors: Wright Melvyn , McGuire Brett A. , Ginsburg Adam , Hirota Tomoya , Bally John , Hwangbo Ryan , Bhadra T. Dex , John Chris , Dave Rishabh
Published: October 2024

We present Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array observations of SiO, SiS, H2O, NaCl, and SO line emission at ∼30–50 mas resolution. These images map the molecular outflow and disk of Orion Source I (SrcI) on ∼12–20 au scales. Our observations show that the flow of material around SrcI creates a turbulent boundary layer in the outflow from SrcI, which may dissipate angular momentum in the rotating molecular outflow into the surrounding medium. Additionally, the data suggest that the proper motion of SrcI may have a significant effect on the structure and evolution of SrcI and its molecular outflow. As the motion of SrcI funnels material between the disk and the outflow, some material may be entrained into the outflow and accrete onto the disk, creating shocks that excite the NaCl close to the disk surface.
Determination of the Abundance of Mercury from the Hg ii Line at 5677.10 Å in Late B-type Stars. VIII. HD 175640
Authors: Monier Richard
Published: October 2024

The weak line of Hg ii located at 5677.10 Å is detected as a faint 1% absorption feature in a NARVAL spectrum of the sharp-lined HgMn star HD 175640. The synthesis of this Hg ii feature yields a mercury excess, about +4.00 dex, which is far lower than the +4.40 dex excess derived from the Hg ii line at 3983.93 Å. I suggest that the Hg ii line at 5677.10 Å is very weak because it is filled by emission in its core, a proposal which had previously been made to explain the weakness of the Hg ii line at 6149.47 Å in HD 175640. Several emission lines ascribed to Ti ii and Mn ii are present in the red part of the spectrum. The synthesis of selected lines of several other elements yields abundances which agree fairly well with those previously derived.
Clinical Facilitators' Perceptions of Factors Contributing to Nursing Students' Experience of Workplace Violence
Authors: Dafny Hila Ariela , Waheed Nasreena , Snaith Nicole , Cooper Paul , Champion Stephanie , Pront Leeanne , McCloud Christine
Published: October 2024

Background

Workplace violence (WPV) is experienced by Bachelor of Nursing (BN) students during clinical placements. Students in this vulnerable group are supervised in the practice environment by clinical facilitators. This study examined clinical facilitators' views on WPV.

Method

Eleven clinical facilitators were recruited for this study and participated in interviews. Transcribed data were probed, and thematic analysis was conducted.

Results

Six major themes emerged that identified factors contributing to BN students' experience of WPV during clinical placements: (1) setting; (2) university; (3) nursing students; (4) site staff; (5) patients; and (6) other factors. Clinical facilitators perceived WPV toward students as being a common yet complex issue due to multiple contributing factors.

Conclusion

This study adds detailed knowledge regarding the factors that influence WPV directed toward BN students to inform the development of policies and procedures for reducing the incidence of WPV in the clinical setting.

[
J Nurs Educ
. 2024;63(10):671–678.]
ESL 4.0
Authors: Abobaker Reima , Moleta Sheena
Published: October 2024

The interest of implementing cutting-edge technology has always been potent in education. Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential of being a ubiquitous powerful tool that promises personalized learning, adaptive curriculum, and enhanced engagement. This chapter investigates the growing attention for integrating AI in education, with a specific focus on its application in the English as a second language (ESL) classroom. Therefore, through the lens of established ESL pedagogical principles, the authors explore the potential benefits and inherent challenges of implementing AI tools into ESL classrooms, offering practical strategies and activities that highlight AI's strengths while mitigating its limitations.
Academic Integrity and Human Cognitive Development of Learners
Authors: Devaki V.
Published: October 2024

The chapter examines the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on academic integrity and human cognitive development. It highlights the potential negative effects of AI on learning experiences, such as reduced critical thinking and creativity. The chapter emphasizes the need for maintaining academic integrity in AI-driven educational systems to create an ethical learning environment. It also emphasizes the need to strike a balance between AI and human involvement to maximize benefits while mitigating drawbacks. The chapter highlights the importance of understanding AI's impact on academic integrity and cognitive development for educators, policymakers, and researchers to make informed decisions and promote healthy educational practices in the digital era.
Data Privacy in AI-Driven Education
Authors: Ismail Islam Asim , Aloshi Jihan Ma'rouf
Published: October 2024

This chapter examines the data privacy challenges posed by AI-driven education and offers strategic solutions to protect student information. The authors explore how AI systems are collecting various types of student data, from test scores to social interactions, and what this means for privacy. Through real-world examples, the authors shed light on worrying trends, like excessive surveillance and potential data breaches. The authors also tackle the legal and ethical questions that arise when AI meets education and point out how current laws often fall short in this rapidly developing field. Key findings reveal the inadequacy of current regulations and the potential for AI to exacerbate existing educational inequalities. The authors recommend implementing comprehensive data governance policies, investing in educator training on AI and privacy, and incorporating data literacy into curricula. The chapter emphasizes the need for a balanced approach that harnesses AI's benefits while protecting students' privacy through technical solutions, policy reforms, and enhanced digital literacy.
Artificial Intelligence Across Industries
Authors: Yadav Uma , Shrawankar Urmila
Published: October 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) has become a disruptive force that is changing conventional wisdom in a wide range of sectors. This thorough analysis threads through the complex web of AI applications, providing a nuanced examination of its effects in several industries while narrowing down on its revolutionary impact on education. Education stands as a cornerstone experiencing significant changes, radically changing how students learn and educators educate, as companies throughout the world adjust to the disruptive force of AI. The assessment begins by outlining the broad effects of AI on important industries. Artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare is redefining diagnostic accuracy and treatment techniques, with consequences for healthcare professional education. Gamification, adaptive learning platforms, and intelligent tutoring systems are essential instruments that are changing the face of education. The study examines the advantages of these AI applications, including improved accessibility, reduced administrative procedures, and personalized learning experiences.
Does Carbon Emission Disclosure Affect Market Performance? Evidence from Sri Lanka
Authors: Aloy Niresh J.
Published: October 2024

The study aims to investigate the relationship between the disclosure of carbon emissions and the market performance of publicly listed companies in Sri Lanka. This is done by analyzing companies that reported their emission data on the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) from 2018 to 2022. The analysis utilizes dynamic panel data estimation with a two-step GMM regression to address potential endogeneity. The study indicates that higher levels of Carbon Emission Disclosure (CED) result in increased Tobin’s Q, supporting previous research and promoting wider acceptance and understanding of CED and its impact on market performance. This study is a pioneering effort to examine the influence of CED on market performance, using the GMM system. The researcher has not found any prior studies conducted in Sri Lanka that evaluate all publicly listed companies disclosing emissions-related data as identified by CDP.
Analyzing the Attributes of a Center Defensive Midfielder in Football using Multivariate Analysis
Authors: Nwokike I. C. , Erumaka E. N. , Nwaigwe C. C. , Obi M. C.
Published: October 2024

The relevance of center defensive midfielders (CDM) in football cannot be overemphasized. During football games, they are the interlocutor between defense and attack and can be tasked with huge responsibilities. Given the high cost of acquiring an efficient and readily available CDM, we designed this study to use multivariate analysis techniques to determine the correlation between attributes (variables) of a center defensive midfielder such as crossing, short passing, volleys, dribbling, long passing, ball control, and others. With the nonexistence of a multivariate analysis of CDM attributes, we have used canonical correlation analysis (CCA) to investigate these correlations. The study produced four statistically significant (p < 0.05) canonical functions (CF), that showed that attributes such as dribbling, sprint speed, agility, and stamina should be considered more when football clubs are considering a central defensive midfielder. Principal component analysis (PCA) was conducted to discover the most important variables for a CDM. The PCA generated three components. The first component was optimal and highlighted short passing, composure, ball control, interceptions, long passing, vision, and dribbling as the most relevant attributes of a CDM.
Impact of Cognitive and Psychological Functions in Relapsing–Remitting Multiple Sclerosis: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Yadav Vinayaka , Hegde Shantala , Netravathi M , Philip Mariamma , Cranberg Lee
Published: October 2024

Background and Objectives:

To compare the cognitive functions and trait anxiety in patients diagnosed with relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) to those of matched healthy controls (HCs). In addition, the study aims to investigate the correlations among cognitive functions, anxiety, depression, and quality of life (QOL) in this clinical population.

Methods:

The sample included RRMS patients (n = 21) and an equal number of age-, education-, and sex-matched HCs. Participants were assessed on the Indian version of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-IV, auditory and visual learning and memory, and visual–spatial construction and memory. RRMS patients were also assessed for levels of anxiety, depression, and their QOL. Comparative analyses between RRMS patients and HCs were carried out for neuropsychological assessments. Correlations among cognitive functions, anxiety, depression, and QOL in RRMS patients were examined.

Results:

RRMS patients showed significant deficits across various cognitive domains, including processing speed and verbal learning, compared to HCs (P < 0.05). In addition, they reported higher levels of trait anxiety compared to HCs (P < 0.01), along with moderate state anxiety and mild depression. A significant correlation among anxiety, depression, and QOL was observed in RRMS patients.

Conclusions:

This study highlights significant cognitive impairments and psychological distress experienced by RRMS individuals, underscoring the critical need for comprehensive care addressing both cognitive impairments and psychological distress to enhance QOL.
A Case Series of Fixed Drug Combination of Esomeprazole and Levosulpride Associated Akathisia
Authors: Alam Parvaiz , Shukla Akanksha , Kataria Dinesh , Garg Bhavuk , Sharma Mini
Published: October 2024

Gastric symptoms are very common and often associated with gastrointestinal (GI) disorders and other systemic disorders. Several drugs such as esomeprazole and levosulpiride are often used in the management of these symptoms. However, there are reports suggesting an association between specific GI drug combination and the development of akathisia with them. These case series aim to investigate and document the cases of the fixed drug combination of esomeprazole- and levosulpiride-associated akathisia, highlighting this potential adverse effect. This combination is rarely reported to cause akathisia in the literature. Whenever this combination is prescribed, patients and their caregivers should be warned of symptoms of akathisia.
Effect of Respiratory Muscle Stretch Gymnastic on Peak Expiratory Flow Rate, Exercise Capacity, Rate of Perceived Exertion, Pain, and Posture in Computer Workers: An Interventional Study
Authors: Chokshi Jil , Mulla Ayesha , Oza Falak , Mevada Nidhi
Published: October 2024

Background and Aim:

Computer users are at an increased risk of developing musculoskeletal and respiratory dysfunction. It is observed that energy expenditure and pulmonary functions are compromised due to the forward head and rotated neck posture. It is associated with pain due to decreases in tissue oxygenation and regional blood flow. Respiratory muscle stretch gymnastics (RMSG) group of stretching exercises performed to stretch specific respiratory muscles. Very few studies have been conducted to see the RMSG effect on computer workers. Hence, this study aimed to determine the effect of RMSG on peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), exercise capacity (EC), rate of perceived exertion (RPE), pain, and posture.

Materials and Methods:

Fifty-two subjects aged 20–60 years fulfilling inclusion criteria were randomly divided into intervention (Group A) and control (Group B) groups. Group A (n = 26) received stretching and RMSG exercise thrice/day, 4 sets, 3 days/week for 4 weeks, whereas Group B (n = 26) received stretching exercise only for the same period. PEFR, EC, RPE, pain, and posture were measured pre- and posttraining. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS software (version 20.0).

Results:

It showed a significant difference in all outcome measures within Group A (P < 0.05). There was a significant difference between groups regarding PEFR, completion time of the 1-mile-walk test, pain intensity, and posture (P < 0.05) but no significant difference in VO2 max and RPE (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:

RMSG exercise is cost-free, easy and can be performed by subjects themselves to improve PEFR, EC, RPE, pain, and posture in computer workers.
A Comprehensive Analysis of Flapless and Conventional Flap Technique in Dental Implant Surgery - A Comparative Study
Authors: Chandrshekhar V. , Shetty Akshay , Hemavathi U. , Iyengar Aditya , Rodrigues Neha Ashwitha , Suryavanshi Shivasmruti
Published: October 2024

Introduction:

This study aims to advance evidence-based implant dentistry through a meticulous assessment of clinical and radiographic outcomes of two implant techniques, providing valuable insights for clinicians and researchers on their long-term success.

Materials and Methods:

A 5-year, split-mouth, randomised, double-blind clinical trial with 40 volunteers compared Group A (flapless technique) and Group B (standard flap technique) across 40 sites each. Clinical and radiographic assessments were conducted, and data were analysed using SPSS Version 22.0 with a significance level of P < 0.001.

Results:

Participants aged 21–49 years showed that Group A (flapless) had higher baseline marginal bone loss but significantly less bone loss from 1 to 5 years compared to Group B (P < 0.001). Group A also had lower Visual Analogue Scale scores and analgesic intake from day 0 to day 5 (P < 0.001). Both groups had a 100% implant survival rate at 5 years, but Group A had higher patient satisfaction (P < 0.001). The diverse cohort of 40 participants included 50% from urban areas and 17.5% with high professional qualifications, all showing good oral hygiene.

Discussion:

Flapless implant surgery aligns with minimally invasive dentistry, reducing surgical trauma, improving aesthetics, shortening surgery time and enhancing patient satisfaction. It is suitable for various patient groups and represents a strategic shift in practices, especially in sites with favourable soft- and hard-tissue conditions.
Monoaxial versus polyaxial pedicle screw fixation for thoracolumbar fractures
Authors: El-Hameed Islam M.A. , El-Meshtawy Mohamed A.E.-H. , Abdelgawaad Ahmed S. , Hassan Ahmed A.A. , Ibrahim Mahmoud Fouad
Published: October 2024

Aim

To compare short-segment monoaxial and polyaxial pedicle screw fixation in thoracolumbar fractures regarding their radiological and clinical outcomes.

Patients and Methods

A prospective case series was conducted on 50 patients with thoracolumbar fractures. The primary outcome was the sagittal index, while the secondary outcomes were the local kyphotic angle, regional kyphotic angle (Cobb’s angle), anterior vertebral height, middle vertebral height, posterior vertebral height, and interpedicular distance. Patients were followed up for a minimum duration of 1 year.

Results

Patients were divided into two groups according whether monoaxial or polyaxial screws were used. The mean postoperative radiographic parameters values improved in both groups. For the correction of kyphosis and correction loss, the mean values were statistically insignificant. Nevertheless, regarding the postoperative complications, none of the patients in the polyaxial had metal failure while four patients in the monoaxial group did.

Conclusion

There is no difference between monoaxial and polyaxial pedicle screws as regards reduction, correction of deformity and maintenance of correction in management of acute thoracolumbar fractures. However, polyaxial screws, have a statistically significant lower incidence of metal failure.
A 7-Year Retrospective Study of Narrowband Ultraviolet B Phototherapy for Psoriasis in Geriatric Patients
Authors: Legiawati Lili , Astriningrum Rinadewi , Yusharyahya Shannaz N. , Chandrakesuma Vivianne , Pulungan Andria A.
Published: October 2024

Background:

Complications of psoriasis may add to the burden of degenerative diseases already present in elderly patients. Phototherapy is a well-established treatment for psoriasis, and narrowband ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) is currently the first-line phototherapy for psoriasis. Its use in elderly has been assessed and is found to be safe and efficacious for many dermatoses.

Aims and Objectives:

To learn the efficacy and safety of NB-UVB phototherapy in geriatric patients with psoriasis in Indonesia.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective study using data from medical records of psoriasis patients aged ≥60 who received NB-UVB phototherapy at the dermatovenereology outpatient clinic of Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital in 2014–2020. The data were processed using SPSS version 25, and descriptive analysis was conducted.

Results:

From 30 patients, 75% reduction of Psoriasis Area and Severity Index was accomplished by 14 patients (47%) after a median of 21 sessions and a median cumulative dose of 25.7 J/cm2. The side effects were experienced by nine patients (30%), comprising pain, burn, and itch. No patient experienced more than two episodes of erythema during their treatment. Most side effects are mild and do not require discontinuation of therapy.

Conclusions:

NB-UVB phototherapy is safe and effective for geriatric patients with psoriasis.
Prediction of the maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max) for young Saudi females using exercise parameters
Authors: Al-Asoom Lubna I. , Almakhaita Marwah M.
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND:

Maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max), an essential indicator of integrated function of the cardiovascular, respiratory, and muscular systems, is an excellent predictor of all-cause morbidity and mortality. Direct measurement is a sophisticated procedure which for some individuals is difficult to perform. The use of international formulae leads to overestimation or underestimation of values. Therefore, the present study aimed to generate a best-fit VO2max prediction formula for young Saudi females.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

One hundred and two randomly selected young healthy Saudi females (19–25 years) with normal body mass index (18.5–24.99 kg m−2) and sedentary lifestyle underwent maximum cardiopulmonary exercise testing on cycle ergometer when using breath-by-breath analyzing system. Hemodynamic and ventilatory parameters were assessed before and during the maximum exercise. Significantly correlated exercise and nonexercise parameters enterd in multiple linear regression analysis to find the best-fit model, and used to generate a VO2max prediction formula.

RESULTS:

The mean measured VO2max was 1449.1 ± 233.92 ml min−1. The VO2max prediction formula was 1304.193 ± 17.902 × body weight + 43.857 × time until exhaustion − 6.83 × maximum heart rate. The mean calculated VO2max was 1449.14 ± 143.97 ml min−1. No statistically significant difference was observed between the measured and calculated VO2max. The Bland–Altman test for the limit of agreement was performed and showed good agreement between the two values with a minute proportional bias. The standard error of the estimate was 156.34, which is approximately 10.6% of the mean measured VO2max. Reliability analysis yielded a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.709.

CONCLUSION:

This study presents a reliable and valid VO2max prediction formula for young Saudi females. This nationally generated formula is far more representative of the VO2max value than international formulae. We recommend the implementation of this formula and an investigation of its validity in other Saudi population groups.
Evolution of ancient techniques of reconstructive surgery from Sushruta to modern day: w(h)ere is the evidence?
Authors: Hanifa Nasreen , Parlapothula Hemantha Kumar , Dagar Satyavati
Published: October 2024

The evolution of surgical procedures from the primeval period to modern day has acclimatized according to the contemporary sphere and needs, but acknowledgement to the original contributor is an ethical principle that should always be kept in mind. Sushruta, popularly known as the father of plastic surgery, has provided a noteworthy input in developing the concepts of reconstructive surgery, but a thorough comparative analysis is not found in the available literary evidences. An extensive literature search imbibing conventional and contemporary materials was performed for this comparative analysis, followed by a meticulous search for the available documented evidences in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases. Tremendous references regarding plastic, reconstructive, or cosmetic surgery including the procedural methodology are found in ancient classical Ayurvedic texts, which is typically followed by the modern era’s techniques. Sandhana Karma principles include traditional approaches to wound care, such as suturing, treating fractures and dislocations, applying bandages, controlling bleeding, using skin flaps and grafts, and performing anastomosis. The results are illustrated through comparative analysis in the article. Sushruta surely is the father of plastic surgery since the ancient techniques are no less than the contemporary ones, and thus its evolution can be claimed with the evidences mentioned herewith.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of efficacy of vasopressin as a vasoconstrictive and uterotonic drug in laparoscopic myomectomy
Authors: Balachandran Amrita , Mishra R. K. , Effie A. Ouma , Raghunathan Akshay , Mathew Anoopa , Archana S.
Published: October 2024

Introduction:

Laparoscopic myomectomy is a commonly performed operation with fast recovery and excellent results. However, haemorrhagic nature of the operation mandates us to use variety of vasoconstrictive and uterotonic agents. Amongst which, one of them is vasopressin. It is a synthetic antidiuretic hormone analogue which has been in common use as a vasoconstrictive agent in various surgical procedures including laparoscopic myomectomy.

Methods:

A meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials published from 2013 to 2023 (10 years) comparing the use of vasopressin against other drug or placebo or different doses of vasopressin was performed. The outcome measures were intraoperative blood loss, need for blood transfusion, difference in the haemoglobin (Hb) and haematocrit (Hct).

Results:

We identified 176 articles through the study search, amongst which 12 articles were included for the meta-analysis. There was a significant heterogeneity in the studies with moderate risk of bias in eight studies and low risk of bias in four studies. Compared to placebo, vasopressin showed significantly lower odds need of blood transfusion (odds ratio [OR] 0.28, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.13–0.61, P = 0.002) and significantly lower pre–post fall in Hb (OR −3.12, 95% CI: −4.63–−1.60, P < 0.0001). However, there was no statistically significant difference in intraoperative blood loss (OR −0.56 (95% CI: −2.04–0.92, P = 0.46) and pre–post fall in Hct (OR −0.94, 95% CI: −1.96–0.07, P > 0.05). Compared to other drug (epinephrine, misoprostol and octreotide acetate), vasopressin showed no significant superiority in controlling blood loss (P > 0.05). Even the two doses of vasopressin (dilute vs. concentrated) showed no statistically significant difference between surgical blood loss and need for blood transfusion (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:

Vasopressin is an efficacious drug to be used for controlling blood loss, decreasing blood transfusion requirement and maintaining Hb and Hct during laparoscopic myomectomy.
Focal Osseous Dysplasia
Authors: Bright E. C. , Salim Sanjith P. , Mathew Alka Mariam , Lizbeth K. Aiswarya
Published: October 2024

Focal cemento-osseous dysplasia (COD) is a benign fibro-osseous condition that can be seen in dentate and edentulous patients. It is an asymptomatic lesion, and follow-up is essential due to the possibility that focal COD can progress to a condition called florid osseous dysplasia (OD) that involves multiple sites. In this case report, a focal OD is presented, which is located in the edentulous area between the second premolar and the second molar on the left side mandible of a 38-year-old female patient. The lesion caused expansion of the alveolar bone. The diagnosis, treatment and follow-up after surgery are reported.
Calcified dissecting aortic aneurysms in a patient with nephrolithiasis
Authors: Elendu Kelechi Collins , Ngwu Paul , Uwanuruochi Kelechukwu
Published: October 2024

We report an elderly woman with renal stones, in whom a calcified dissecting aortic aneurysm was discovered. We discuss the implications for subsequent management.
Endomyocardial fibrosis in a 12-year-old boy
Authors: Bolum-Okolie Angela Nwamaka , Onyemarin-Henry Precious Akuoma , Sadoh Wilson Ehidiamen
Published: October 2024

Endomyocardial fibrosis (EMF) is characterized by the abnormal scarring of the endocardium with deposition of fibrous tissues in the apices and inflow tracts of the right ventricle, left ventricle, or both, leading to symptoms such as heart failure, arrhythmias, and intracardiac thrombosis. EMF is a rare cause of cardiac morbidity and mortality in children of the tropics including Nigeria, hence the presentation of this case report. A 12-year-old male presented to Children emergency ward with abdominal swelling from infancy, which worsened 3 months before presentation, leg swelling and weight loss of 3 months, cough of 1 month, and fast breathing of 1 week. Physical examination revealed dyspnea, pedal and leg edema, absent breath sounds in the right middle and lower lung zone, tachycardia, irregular pulse, elevated jugular venous pressure, and a grossly distended abdomen. Echocardiography demonstrated dilated atria, thickened AV valves, small, thickened ventricular cavities, intra-atrial thrombus, fibrous tissue in the apices and inlets of left and right ventricles, and pericardial effusion. Electrocardiography revealed first-degree AV block, left anterior fascicular block, and left atrial enlargement. Chest radiograph revealed right lobar pneumonia, pleural effusion, and cardiomegaly. The abdominopelvic scan revealed congestive hepatomegaly and ascites. He received diuretics, beta-blockers, aspirin, and antibiotics. Repeated abdominal paracentesis, thoracocentesis, and pericardiocentesis drained 14.2 L, 1.5 L, and 2.1 L of serosanguineous fluid, respectively. EMF is an enigmatic disease which requires further research to unravel its underlying mechanisms and develop more targeted therapeutic strategies.
Comparison of conventional and cone beam computed tomography synthetized cephalograms in evaluating different skeletal patterns
Authors: Nour Ahmed El Tantawy Sayed Ahmed El Tantawy , Mehy Ghada A. El Fattah El , Marhoumy Shaimaa M. El
Published: October 2024

Objectives

To compare conventional and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) synthetized cephalograms in evaluating different skeletal patterns.

Patients and methods

This cross-sectional study was carried out on 30 CBCT scans and lateral cephalograms of Egyptian orthodontic patients of both sexes with different skeletal malocclusion patterns. Their ages ranging from 18 to 25 years old before orthodontic treatment. The conventional radiographs were called LCR images, and the cephalograms dragged from CBCT were called CBCT images. All patients were subjected to cephalometric analysis.

Results

There was a highly statistically significant difference between both groups in angular measurements SNA°, SNB°, and FMP°. Also, there were statistically significant differences between both groups in SN/MP°, U1/FHP°, and L1/MP°. However, there were no statistically significant differences between both groups regarding ANB°, Y-axis°, and Inter Incisal Angle.

Conclusions

CBCT-synthesized cephalograms demonstrated more accurate dimensional measurements than conventional lateral cephalograms. CBCT-synthesized cephalograms could be confidently used for the evaluation of different skeletal malocclusion. CBCT could successfully replace conventional cephalograms for orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning.
Evaluation of ozonated olive oil in the success of immediate dental implants placed into infected sockets
Authors: Aljaky Hagar M. , Khedr Mohammed S. , Saad Khalid A. , Bedir Rafic R.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This prospective study was conducted to assess the clinical and radiographic influences of topical application of ozonated olive oil on immediate implants inserted into infected fresh extraction sockets.

Patients and methods

This study was implemented on 14 cases with infected nonrestorable teeth or remaining roots. All cases underwent two-stage implant surgery, stage I: extraction of the tooth, application of ozonated olive oil gel into the infected postextraction socket, and immediate insertion of dental implant fixture, and stage II: 4 months after stage I surgery, the abutment was installed onto the implant fixture. After soft tissue healing around the abutment, the implant was loaded with the final functional prosthesis. All the patients had regular follow-up intervals throughout the study period to evaluate soft tissue and bone healing and implant stability.

Results

Fourteen patients enrolled in this study, of which there were six (42.9%) males and eight (57.1%) females. The age of the patients ranged between 21 and 45 years with a mean of 33.21 ± 9.16 years. The clinical outcomes including visual analog scale, soft tissue dehiscence, infection, implant stability quotient, gingival index, and peri-implant probing depth all indicated uneventful postoperative healing and 100% survival rate of the implants throughout the follow-up intervals. Radiographic outcome included interpreting cone beam computed tomography measurement of alveolar bone height which showed marked significant positive difference between stage I and stage II surgeries indicating a potential enhancing effect of ozonated olive oil on osseointegration and tissue healing.

Conclusion

Based on the outcomes of this study, we concluded that topical administration of ozonated olive oil might potentially enhance healing and osseointegration of implants immediately inserted into infected fresh extraction sockets and could exhibit a significant influence on increasing the success rate and minimizing complications. However, further investigation employing a control group, larger sample size, and longer follow-up duration is required to confirm this influence.
Treatment of myofascial pain and dysfunction using botulinum toxin A: a prospective study
Authors: Le Victor , Shah Adnan , Elgazzar Reda
Published: October 2024

Purpose

We prospectively assessed the effects of botulinum toxin type-A (BTX-A) on primary and secondary outcomes in a population of refractory myofascial pain and dysfunction patients when conservative management had proven ineffective.

Methods

In this study, 26 patients with masticatory myofascial pain, who were refractory to conservative management, were enrolled prospectively to evaluate responses following the injection of botulinum toxin-A (BTX-A). Masseter muscles were injected with 30 units BTX-A and 20 units into the temporalis muscles. Pain, tenderness to palpation, and oral function were evaluated subjectively using a visual analog scale (VAS). Objective outcomes of maximal mouth opening (MMO) and reduction in total facial width after injection with BTX-A were measured. Participants were reassessed at 1-week, 1, 3, and 6-month intervals. A linear mixed-effect model was employed to assess the level of correlation (dependence) among different outcomes.

Results

Administration of BTX-A had a significant strong positive correlation with the reduction of pain (Phi = 0.641, P < 0.0005); significant strong positive correlation with increase in oral function (Phi = 0.738, P < 0.0015); significant strong positive correlation with increase in maximal mouth opening (Phi = 0.645, P < 0.0085); significant strong positive correlation with tenderness to palpation (Phi = 0.510, P < 0.0011); and significant strong positive correlation with reduction in facial width (Phi = 0.565, P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

The results from this study demonstrate that BTX-A administration may provide a safe and effective means to treat myofascial pain from hyperfunctioning masticatory muscles. It is not recommended to replace first-line treatment but may provide relief from chronic facial pain if properly administered in patients where standard conservative management has been unsuccessful.