bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structure thématique du paragraphe dans les productions d’apprenants sinophones de français langue seconde
Authors: Aleksandrova Tatiana
Published: October 2024

Cet article porte sur l’organisation thématique des paragraphes rédigés par des apprenants sinophones de niveau B2 en français langue seconde (L2) dans le cadre de la production d’un essai argumenté. Rédiger un texte en L2 est une tâche complexe nécessitant de nombreuses compétences : linguistiques, rhétoriques et pragmatiques. Des travaux précédents attestent les difficultés persistantes d’apprenants de L2 à l’écrit. Les résultats de cette étude montrent que les apprenants sinophones partagent un certain nombre de stratégies propres aux francophones natifs, à savoir les formes particulières de progression thématique qui sont mises en œuvre pour relier les propositions. Des écarts sont par ailleurs observables : 1) les paragraphes des apprenants sont systématiquement plus courts que ceux des francophones et comportent moins de progressions linéaires préférant la progression à thème constant ; 2) les ruptures thématiques sont également plus fréquentes dans leurs productions. En ce qui concerne les moyens linguistiques, nous relevons certaines différences au niveau des reprises anaphoriques. Une différence pragmatique en lien avec le registre de langue est également observée. Notre analyse thématique et linguistique des productions permet de mieux comprendre les spécificités d’organisation du paragraphe dans les productions des apprenants sinophones.
Les écrivaines de La Grande librairie : des invitées de deuxième ligne ?
Authors: Pons Desoutter Martine , Rossato Solange , Zampa Virginie
Published: October 2024

Pour cet article, nous nous sommes intéressées à la place des autrices dans une émission de télévision littéraire très suivie sur une chaine du service public français. Notre analyse porte sur les temps de parole, les thématiques des émissions, la répartition sexuée des invité·e·s et les processus langagiers mis en œuvre. Elle révèle que la parité et l’équité entre les sexes ne vont pas de soi. En effet, elle montre que le choix des invités, le déroulé des échanges comme les adresses ainsi que certains éléments langagiers de l’animateur contribuent à minorer la place des autrices.
Short-term rental platforms’ contrasting effects on neighborhoods: the case of urban destinations on the French Riviera
Authors: Pommet Sophie , Rochhia Sylvie , Torre Dominique
Published: October 2024

This paper aims to analyze the conditions under which the growth of short-term rental platforms affects standard rents, focusing on key destinations on the French Riviera. Following a literature review, we develop a simplified model capturing the characteristics of French Riviera destinations and predict a positive effect on rents in the short run when there is a high pressure from short-term rentals. We validate these predictions using data from AirDNA pertaining to short-term rentals offered on the Airbnb platform, combined with data on long-term rentals in the cities of Nice and Cannes.JEL classification: L83, R31, Z31, L85, L86.
Teacher Empathy in Schools
Authors: Ackah-Jnr Francis R. , Appiah John K. , Mohammed Awudu Salaam
Published: October 2024

International best practice, policy directive and buy-in underpin the adoption of a more transformative and inclusive approach to education. However, socio-cultural, economic, and political forces in the global South, coupled with resistive school practices and discrimination often lead to the exclusion of learners. Informed by learner diversities and the lingering effects of COVID-19, the chapter argues for empathy in inclusive education. The effective embedment of empathy at the heart of school practice pedagogically, physically, socially, and emotionally can leverage inclusivity for all learners. Empathy, the capacity to share a person's feelings and emotions, is also the foundation of what makes schools securing and supporting, teachers intentional and responsive, families caring and kind, and societies accepting and resourcing. This chapter essentialises empathy, inclusivity and sustainable education, teacher inclusive roles and empathic practices. Implications are offered on supporting teachers and improving their preparation to promote empathic inclusive education.
SG in Digital Era Becomes DESG
Authors: Anastasiadou Sofia , Papademetriou Christos , Anastasiadis Lazaros , Valsamidis Stavros , Florou Giannoula
Published: October 2024

Purpose: The study examines digital environmental, social and governance (DESG) impact on attitudes of students aiming to enhance students' awareness digital environmental, social and governance (DESG) sustainability implementation agenda. Design/ Methodology/ Strategy: The study utilizes a quantitative approach, which involves a questionnaire constitutes of five conceptual constructs. 284 students responded to the survey. Results: Conceptual constructs named Digital environment pillar (DEP), Digital social pillar (DSP), Digital governance pilar (DGP) have a significant correlation with each other. Digital social pillar (DSP) and digital environmental, social and governance (DESG) conceptual construct have the strongest correlation. Originality/Value: The present study is presents original approaches of Greek students toward digital environmental, social and governance (DESG) regarding university. Limitations: Although studies pay attention on effectiveness and ESG performance regarding firms or brands, few analyze the impact of digital transformation of ESG on universities.
Looking Back and Looking Forward
Authors: Zournatzidou Georgia , Ragazou Konstantina , Samantzis Charalampos , Papademetriou Christos , Sklavos George , Karkanis Dimitrios , Sariannidis Nikolaos
Published: October 2024

This study emphasises the need for green innovation and GHRM in organisations to achieve long-term sustainability and environmental goals. It summarizes a factorial investigation of GHRM, green innovation, and environmental performance. Sustainable development and pollution reduction improve environmental performance, according to the research. Improving environmental performance and sustainability requires green innovation, which includes process and product improvements. Improvements in product design and manufacture enable this strategy. Organizations must emphasize environmental sustainability due to the many critical concerns facing developed and emerging countries. This research has important implications for senior management and academia, helping executives create a green innovation culture in products and processes. The study also calls for further research on sustainable performance, GHRM, and green innovation in many sectors and environments
Effect of Alloying Elements on Weld Characterization and Wear Resistance of Hardfacing of Structural Steel with Iron-Based Electrodes
Authors: Gill Jaspal Singh , Singh Amrik , Singh Om Veer
Published: October 2024

The present study is an attempt to provide the solutions to the problem encountered by the components subjected to metal-to-metal wear or galling from grass root level to the advanced stages. Sliding wear or metal to metal wear, galling, can result in seizure due to bonding of the materials and can generate large amounts of damage over small sliding distances. More damage could be expected under unlubricated sliding systems. At lower loads, and particularly at high relative velocities could lead to considerable heating of the metallic surfaces, oxide growth and stripping can also be possibly observed. Under similar conditions cobalt based and nickel based hard facings were considered to be most suited, but due to the high cost of these materials an attempt has been made to achieve adequate hardness and wear resistance at much lower cost, by alloy additions with the help of Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) process. In this paper the effect of alloying elements on the wear performance of hard-faced components prepared by Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) process has been undertaken on the low carbon steel substrate by different compositions of iron (Fe) based, hard facing electrodes. The effect of alloying elements especially with varying compositions of chromium and molybdenum on the microstructure, microhardness, and wear resistance of the Fe-based hardfacing alloyed specimens were investigated by means of optical microscopy, and pin on disc wear test. The hardness and wear resistance were improved with the addition of principal alloying elements such as chromium (Cr), molybdenum (Mo) and manganese (Mn) through the consumable electrode during hardfacing by SMAW process. The microhardness of substrate material, i.e., before hardfacing was around 100 HV that latter improved up to 280 HV using first electrode E1, 330 HV using second electrode E2 and 350 HV using third electrode E3. Sliding wear for metal-to-metal wear testing was conducted as per ASTM G99 standards and wear resistance was calculated in terms of the weight loss of the pin after the test run. Wear resistance was found to be improved by 45% approximately with the electrodes E1 and E2 which have chromium content from 2.5% to 4.5 %, whereas an improvement up to 54% was observed with the third electrode E3 corresponding to 6% chromium. The percentage of carbide was found to be more in hardfaced layer in the presence of the molybdenum (Mo). The improvement of hardness and wear resistance of the hardfacing layer is attributed to the solution strengthening of Mo alloying elements. It was further observed that samples that have higher Cr content possessed finer grains with martensitic structure. Role of Mn can also be very important as it removes oxygen and Sulphur from the coatings and improve toughness and overall strength, on the other hand presence of silicon (Si) can attribute to improved yield strength.
Influence of the Cylindrical Profile of the Welding Tool Pin on the Dimensions of FSW and SFSW Welded Joints in EN AW 1200 Aluminium Alloy
Authors: Dobrin Emilia , Botila Lia-Nicoleta , Mnerie Gabriela-Victoria
Published: October 2024

Friction stir welding is a solid-state joining process of metallic materials using a rotating welding tool that can have different geometric configurations. The paper presents aspects regarding the influence of the welding tool pin geometry on the dimensions of friction stir welded joints in air and in liquid working environment for EN AW 1200 aluminium alloy. Welding tools with smooth and threaded cylindrical pin were used for experimental research, the joints dimensions being comparative analysed by macrostructural investigations. The results are useful in the case of experimental research on FSP processing in air and SFSP in liquid environment of aluminium alloys within the Nucleu PN 23 27 01 02 project underway at ISIM Timisoara.
Satellite remote sensing for monitoring citrus orchards water requirements at the irrigation district scale
Authors: Longo-Minnolo Giuseppe , D’Emilio Alessandro , Ramírez-Cuesta Juan Miguel , Vanella Daniela , Guarrera Serena , Manerchia Maserà Giacoma , Consoli Simona
Published: October 2024

In Italy, irrigated agriculture is often managed by Reclamation Consortia, but they generally lack the proper tools for monitoring the irrigation water requirements (IWR), forbidding the required sustainability level by the European Water Framework Directive. In this context, the study aims at monitoring the IWR of citrus orchards of a Sicilian irrigation district by implementing a satellite-based methodological approach, during the irrigation seasons 2019 and 2020. Firstly, neural networks were implemented to map the citrus orchards, by using Normalized Difference Vegetation Index time series as input, and obtaining accuracy values of 94% and 87%, in 2019 and 2020, respectively. Then, the satellite-based ArcDualKc model was used to estimate crop evapotranspiration (ETc) over the identified citrus orchards. The estimated ETc rates were validated at the farm scale in terms of irrigation volumes and compared to those obtained by the traditional FAO-56 approach. Then, the spatially distributed irrigation volumes estimated at district level were compared with those declared by the Reclamation Consortium, obtaining absolute error values of 3.28 Mm3 (294%) and 7.08 Mm3 (647%) for the years 2019 and 2020, respectively. The results of the study confirmed the usefulness of the satellite-based methodological approach for determining spatial distributed IWR estimates.
CHIMERIC ANTIGEN RECEPTOR T CELLS FOR THE TREATMENT OF MULTIPLE MYELOMA
Authors: Testa Ugo , Pelosi Elvira , Castelli Germana
Published: October 2024

Multiple myeloma (MM), characterized by abnormal proliferation of clonal plasma cells, is an incurable hematological malignancy. Various immunotherapy strategies have emerged as an efficacious approach for the treatment of MM, including monoclonal antibodies, antibody-drug conjugates, bispecific antibodies, and chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cells. Anti-B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) CAR-T cells have revolutionized the treatment of MM patients with relapsed/refractory disease and their clinical use was approved for the treatment of these patients.
Despite this progress, the efficacy of CAR-T cells in MM is limited by the responsiveness of only a part of the treated patients, the relapse of other patients, the cost of the treatment and the diminished response in patients with prior exposure to anti-BCMA targeting agents. Ongoing clinical trials are evaluating the use of CAR-T cells at an earlier stage of MM disease and the use of CAR-T cells targeting other membrane antigens expressed on malignant plasma cells.
Chronic Pain Influences Lower Extremity Energetics During Landing Cutting in Patients with Chronic Ankle Instability
Authors: Oh Minsub , Lee Hyunwook , Han Seunguk , Hopkins J. Ty
Published: October 2024

Context

Chronic ankle instability (CAI) patients exhibit altered movement patterns during jump landing/cutting movements. Persistent pain is one of the residual symptoms that may affect movements. Calculating joint energetics affected by chronic pain offers a novel method to understand how chronic pain influences energetics of lower extremity joints in CAI patients.

Objective

To identify the effects of chronic pain on lower extremity energy dissipation and generation during jump landing and cutting in CAI patients.

Design

Cross-sectional Study.

Setting

Laboratory.

Patients or Other Participants

Fifteen CAI patients with higher pain (6 males, 9 females; age=22.1±2.1year; height=1.74±0.09m; mass=71.3±10.6kg, pain=66.9±9.4), 15 CAI patients with lower pain (6 males, 9 females; age=22.3±2.1year; height=1.74±0.08m; mass=70.1±10.7kg, pain=89.3±2.6), and 15 healthy controls (6 males, 9 females; age=21.3±1.7year; height=1.73±0.08m; mass=70±10.3kg, pain=100±0).

Main Outcome Measures

Ground reaction force data were collected during 5 trials of maximal jump landing/cutting tasks. Joint power was defined as the product of angular velocity and joint moment. Energy dissipation and generation by the ankle, knee, and hip joints were calculated by integrating regions of the joint power curve.

Results

CAI patients with higher pain displayed less ankle energy dissipation (p=.013 and p=.018) and generation in the ankle (p=.002 and p=.028) than CAI patients with lower pain and healthy controls during the jump landing/cutting phase. CAI patients with higher pain showed more hip energy generation than CAI patients with lower pain (P=.038) and healthy controls (P=.013) during the cutting phase.

Conclusions

CAI patients with higher pain changed both energy dissipation and generation in the lower extremities, reducing the burden of the ankle joint during jump landing/cutting and having a hip dominant compensatory strategy during the cutting phase. Our results suggest that chronic pain could be one of the factors that affect motor strategies in the CAI population.
The holy waters of En Four: Rituals, prayers, magic and mysticism
Authors: Meiring Arno M.
Published: October 2024

Travellers on the N4 highway just east of Pretoria can see evidence of a sacred spring next to the road with pilgrims moving around the landscape and collecting water. This research explored this place – called ‘En Four’ by some – and described visits and conversations had at the site in 2024. The first part of the research narrated the encounters and recorded the local and anecdotal knowledge shared by pilgrims and visitors. The research then analysed the religious significance of the water-based rituals using Rodney Stark’s religion-sociological theory of religion: it identified evidence of magic, prayer, ritual and mysticism. Finally, a number of findings considered the use, value and care of water at this religious site: En Four offers various religious experiences, contributes to mental and physical health and may enhance social cohesion and understanding.Contribution: This research recorded an important, but still undocumented, religious site, as well as the activities and rituals enacted at this place. It interpreted the African water-rituals uniquely from a religion-sociological perspective, also indicating its significance for both individuals and society. This contributed to an interreligious dialogue on, and reappreciation of water as being holy and transformative.
Revealing the boon and bane of South Africa’s disaster management legislation during COVID-19
Authors: Nemakonde Livhuwani D. , Kunguma Olivia
Published: October 2024

Legislation provides a framework for effective and coordinated disaster preparedness and response. This article evaluates the strengths and shortcomings of South Africa’s disaster risk management (DRM) legislation in guiding the response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Since its promulgation in 2002, South Africa’s DRM legislation has been hailed as one of the most progressive legislations globally. However, the severe respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, commonly known as the COVID-19 pandemic, exposed inadequacies in most existing DRM legislation worldwide, including in South Africa. This led to an inadequate response to the pandemic. A content-based literature review was conducted. Forty-nine peer-reviewed articles, reports, op-eds and newspaper articles were included in the review. The review highlighted significant inadequacies of South African DRM legislation, including the placement of the National Disaster Management Centre and the establishment of new structures for COVID-19 response. Based on the findings of this study, disaster managers, as the primary implementers of the disaster management legislation, must motivate the constant review of the disaster management legislation as a way of mitigating social, economic, political and environmental impacts of disasters, which emanate from the inadequacies existing in the disaster legislation.Contribution: The study’s findings contribute to the effective management of the disaster management fraternity by suggesting amendment of the legislation based on the experience during the pandemic. The recommendations made to disaster managers will assist with responding appropriately to future pandemics and other disasters.
A tool for the assessment of the risk drivers and public perception of WASH in South Africa
Authors: Madikizela Phindile , Limson Janice , Fogel Ronen , Ristvej Jozef , Tandlich Roman
Published: October 2024

Temporal trend analysis of the Google-search volumes and terms related to water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) in South Africa was performed using a computer plugin between January 2004 and June 2022. This study was conducted as WASH has played an important role in the containment of the recent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, and it is also one of the most effective and easiest-to-deploy tools in decreasing risk from infectious diseases. For the WASH-related terms, the monthly search volumes ranged from the minimum average of 480 for pit latrines to the maximum of 30236 for diarrhea or diarrhoea for the studied period. The Spearman correlation coefficients ranged from –0.29462 to 0.96647, with the p-values ranging from 0.00001 to 0.28789. On a yearly basis, there was a direct correlation between the WASH-related search volumes extracted and the access of the South African population to basic water and sanitation. There was an inverse relationship between the WASH-related search volumes extracted on an annual basis and the death rates from diarrhoeal diseases among children under 5 years of age in South Africa between 2004 and 2020. Results of the current study indicate that a Google-derived search volume can be useful in the assessment of the public’s interest in WASH-related topics in South Africa.Contribution: Therefore, the study findings could be used to optimise the design and targeting of public awareness campaigns on WASH during the coronavirus pandemic or similar infectious disease burdens and related disaster risks.
Statutory and policy-based eco-disaster risk reduction in SADC member states
Authors: Covele Alfredo A. , Van Niekerk Dewald , Cilliers Dirk
Published: October 2024

Effective legislative framework is the cornerstone of managing hazards and disasters because they have become policy problems of global and local concern. This research study aims at understanding the implementation, strengths and gaps of policies related to Eco-DRR in SADC member states. In particular, attempts to critically analyse the making of DRM policies, as well as the variables underpinning these policies, given the high level of disaster losses. A literature survey was conducted to contextualise and conceptualise statutory and policy-based Eco-DRR. Academic literature on Eco-DRR and related policies, journal articles and related policies, official documents in SADC states including policies, acts, legislations, strategies, frameworks and plans were consulted. The analysis revealed that the Eco-DRR approaches have not yet been mainstreamed as part of standards of DRM in most of SADC member states, opting largely on ad hoc practice. Short-term plans and/or strategies don’t help to articulate funding and programme priorities. In addition, irregular updating of policies in some member states and a lack of following up mechanisms were noted.Contribution: To change this reality, it is necessary to include Eco-DRR in strategies and/or plans and to standardise ecosystem-based measures for reducing disaster risks. Additionally, there is an urgent need for empowerment of the existing institutions and creation of networks that are driven by SADC institutions. Overall, it is evident that there is a regional interest and demand to apply and standardise ecosystem-based approaches and natural or green infrastructure solutions toward Eco-DRR.
Book review: Documentary and stereotypes – Reducing stigma through factual media by Catalin Brylla
Authors: Wilde Alison
Published: October 2024

N/A
Knowledge and perceptions of South African blood donors towards biobanking and stool donation
Authors: Claassen-Weitz Shantelle , Du Toit Elloise , Gardner-Lubbe Sugnet , Kullin Brian , Bellairs Gregory , Hilton Caroline , Chicken Anika , Welp Kirsten , Livingstone Hannah , Brink Adrian
Published: October 2024

Background: The complexity of contexts and varied purposes for which biome donation are requested are unknown in South Africa.Objectives: The aim of this study was to provide strategic data towards actualisation of whether a stool donor bank may be established as a collaborative between Western Cape Blood Services (WCBS) and the University of Cape Town (UCT).Method: We designed a cross-sectional, questionnaire-based survey to determine willingness of WCBS blood donors to donate stool specimens for microbiome biobanking. The study was conducted between 01 June 2022 and 01 July 2022 at three WCBS donation centres in Cape Town, South Africa. Anonymous blood donors who met the inclusion criteria were enrolled. Anonymised demographic and interview data were analysed statistically.Results: Analysis of responses from 209/231 blood donors demonstrated in a logistic regression model that compensation (p  0.001) and ‘societal benefit outweighs inconvenience’ beliefs (p = 7.751e-05) were covariates significantly associated with willingness to donate stool. Age was borderline significant at a 5% level (p = 0.0556). Most willing stool donors indicated that donating stool samples would not affect blood donations (140/157, 90%). Factors decreasing willingness to donate were stool collection being unpleasant or embarrassing.Conclusion: The survey provides strategic data for the establishment of a stool bank and provided an understanding of the underlying determinants regarding becoming potential donors.Contribution: This is the first report on the perspectives of potential participants in donating samples towards a stool microbiome biobank in South Africa, a necessity for faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT).
Introduction of Formal Training of Interns in Breaking Bad News in an Empathetic Manner through a Structured Module
Authors: Kaur Upinder , Mahajan Rajiv , Panditrao Mridul Madhav , Kaur Kamaljeet
Published: October 2024

Background:

Due to lack of formal training, young doctors cannot deliver bad news in a way that is expected by patients and their attendants, thereby jeopardizing doctor–patient relationship.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to train interns about “breaking bad news” to the patients using a structured module.

Materials and Methods:

A workshop comprising interactive lectures and videos followed by debriefing, and discussion was conducted for interns. Pre/posttest, workshop feedback evaluation, and a group activity based on article case were conducted, followed by discussion. An assessment of skills based on a checklist was done after 15 days of workshop in simulated conditions.

Results:

There was a significant difference in scores of written tests taken by all 56 participants before and after the session (P < 0.0001). Almost all of them agreed that their ability to break bad news has improved, and they feel confident in breaking bad news after attending this session. During the assessment of the skill of breaking bad news, most of them fell into the category of beginner after attending the workshop with a median of 2.

Conclusions:

A structured module is an effective method in improving the skills of the interns in sharing bad news with the patients.
To Develop and Implement a Preclinical Operative Dentistry Module to Enhance Class-II Cavity Preparation Training
Authors: Atwal Preet Kanwal , Kwatra Gagandeep , Jain Ritu , Dua Kapil Krishan , Khanna Shivani , Gupta Vivek Vardhan
Published: October 2024

Background:

A competent dental undergraduate at the preclinical level will ensure a confident transition into clinics and quality treatment for patients. Cavity preparation of a tooth is one of the key competencies in dentistry. A preclinical training module was introduced to enhance the skill training and improve students’ learning.

Aim:

This study aims to develop and implement a preclinical operative dentistry module to enhance Class-II cavity preparation training.

Methodology:

Feedback was taken from the 3rd year undergraduate batch regarding the preclinical operative dentistry training. Based on the feedback, a training module was developed and implemented for Class-II cavity preparation for 2nd year dental students. The three-stage intervention included a preparatory intervention with a Prebrief PowerPoint presentation, followed by a live demonstration of the Class-II cavity preparation and access to a video demonstration. In the third stage, formative assessments were conducted with the help of an assessment rubric. At the end, student and faculty perceptions were gathered using a feedback survey.

Results:

Most students (98%) were satisfied with the training. All the faculty strongly agreed that the module should be part of future training. Video demonstration and rubric-based assessments were testified by 93% of students as the most helpful element of the module. Major themes after thematic analysis were a better understanding of the procedure, enhanced visualization, the ability to identify areas for improvement, and boosted confidence for final exams.

Conclusions:

The preclinical training module successfully met the needs of the participating undergraduate students. Video demonstration proved a beneficial digital learning resource.
The Empathy Quandary in Postgraduate Medical Training
Authors: Bhagat Purvi Raj , Kinjal Y. Trivedi , Vijay Rajput
Published: October 2024

Background:

Empathy stands as a cornerstone of humanistic qualities and is essential in healthcare for understanding and alleviating emotional suffering. Despite its necessity, formal empathy training remains elusive in postgraduate medical education across the globe, contributing to decline of humanistic practice among trainees. This study aims to assess and establish the need for empathy training by evaluating the perspectives of postgraduate trainees and faculty.

Materials and Methods:

The study was conducted in a medical college of western India in 2023. Three online validated questionnaires were used to assess empathy-related perceptions among faculty and postgraduate trainees across various specialties. The questionnaires focused on demographic data, importance of empathy in patient care, empathy training, perceived levels of empathy, reasons for shortfalls in empathetic behavior and recommendations for nurturing empathy. Data were analyzed quantitatively and thematically.

Results:

A total of 150 and 127 responses were gathered and analyzed from faculty and trainees, respectively. Excessive workload, lack of formal training, and technology-dependent fast paced lifestyle were attributed for lack of empathy in clinical care. All the faculty agreed that empathy training is essential and majority (67%) believed that lack of empathetic behavior led to dissatisfaction among patients and caregivers.

Conclusion:

Empathetic communication and behaviors are fundamental competencies for health-care professionals. There is need for a structured training for empathy in postgraduate medical curriculum.
Artificial intelligence in suicide prevention: Utilizing deep learning approach for early detection
Authors: Gaur Vikas , Maggu Gaurav , Bairwa Khushboo , Chaudhury Suprakash , Dhamija Sana , Ali Tahoora
Published: October 2024

Background:

Suicide among students is increasing in India and is a matter of grave concern. Early identification of students contemplating suicide would facilitate emergency intervention and may save precious lives.

Aim:

Our primary objective was to construct an artificial intelligence (AI) model employing an artificial neural network (ANN) architecture to predict students at risk of suicidal tendencies. This initiative was prompted by the necessity to implement a proactive and technologically driven strategy for identifying competitive exam-bound students facing heightened vulnerability. The aim was to facilitate timely interventions aimed at reducing the risk of self-harm.

Materials and Methods:

An AI model utilizing ANNs is devised for suicide risk prediction among exam-stressed students. A 33-feature input layer is curated based on literature and expert insights, with binary features assigned weighted values. A rigorous hyperparameter optimization approach using the Optuna library to select the most effective neural network model. Ridge regression was used to determine bias or variance in the dataset. Training and testing of the model are conducted using fictional and simulated profiles, respectively, and model performance is assessed through statistical metrics and the Cohen’s Kappa coefficient, benchmarked against expert evaluations.

Result:

The AI model demonstrates exceptional predictive capabilities for suicide risk assessment among competitive exam students. Quantitative Metrics: The model’s accuracy of 98% aligns predictions with outcomes, distinguishing risk categories. Precision at 100% identifies cases within predicted risks, minimizing false positives. A recall of 97% identifies true risk cases, highlighting sensitivity. F1 Score: The model’s F1 score of 98% balances precision and recall, indicating overall performance. Cohen’s Kappa: With a coefficient of 1.00, the model’s substantial agreement with experts underscores its consistent classifications.

Conclusion:

The study introduces an AI model utilizing ANNs for suicide risk prediction among stressed students. High precision, recall, and accuracy align with expert evaluations, highlighting its promise for timely risk identification. The model’s efficiency in evaluating large populations swiftly indicates its clinical potential. Refinement and real-world validation remain future considerations.
Online compulsive buying behavior and its association with internet addiction, self-esteem, impulsiveness, and emotional distress among nursing students
Authors: Dixit Priyanshi , Phalswal Uma , Rathee Anjali , Devi Yumnam Surbala
Published: October 2024

Background:

Compulsive buying behavior [CBB] or pathological buying (PB) is a psychiatric disorder of growing recognition and many psychosocial factors have been proposed to predispose or precipitate this predicament.

Aim:

To find out the association of compulsive buying behavior, emotional distress, self-esteem, internet addiction, and impulsiveness among nursing students.

Materials and Methods:

A web-based cross-sectional, online survey was conducted among nursing undergraduates to assess the association of compulsive buying behavior, emotional distress, self-esteem, internet addiction, and impulsiveness using total enumerative sampling from February 2024 to April 2024. Data were collected using self-administered PBS, IAT, Rosenberg self-esteem scale, BIS-Brief, and DASS-21 scales. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used. Frequency distribution, Bivariate correlation, and Multiple regression analysis were also used.

Results:

There were 410 participants with valid responses, and 207 [50.5%] fell into the category of pathological buying. The participant group “with pathological buying” was comparable with the group “not having pathological buying” in terms of sociodemographic statistics, preferred modality of purchasing stuff, and the “duration of daily internet use”. However, the DASS-21 and IAT scores were significantly higher among the participants “with pathological buying”. On regression analysis, both DASS and IAT scores were predicting the PBS scores.

Conclusion:

There is a significant association between pathological buying with internet addiction and psychological distress, but not with self-esteem, and impulsivity.
In Vitro Kinetic and Thermodynamic Staining Study of Three Energy Drinks on the Restorative Charisma Composite
Authors: Hamadamin Shireen Ibrahim
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Aim:

The research utilized charisma composite resin, a dental restorative material known for its esthetic properties, with the chemical formula 2,2-bis[p(2-hydroxy-3-methacryloxy propoxyphenyl)] propane. The primary objective of the study was to examine the overall color change (ΔE*ab) of the charisma resin after it was subjected to three distinct energy drink solutions: Monster Energy Ultra-Sunrise, Wild Tiger, and Red Bull. Further we examined the effects of temperature and time on the staining interaction and overall color difference ΔE*ab on the surface of charisma restorative resin generated by three energy drink.

Materials and Methods:

A microfilled Charisma Classic composite resin was used in presented comparative study selected. The prepared 144 composite disk samples (subdivided n=48) with random allocation method were used for the three energy drinks to determine the effect of temperature and time over the course of 90 days. A metallic circulator mold was prepared. Every set of 48 specimens in the energy drink was heated in a water bath for 1, 7, 30, 60, and 90 days at four different temperatures This investigation spanned various time intervals, ranging from 1 to 90 days, and encompassed four temperature levels between 283 and 310 K. One-way ANOVA was used to evaluate the mean data for color change between the energy drinks, and Tukey’s post hoc test was used for multiple comparisons, with a significance level of P < 0.05.

Results:

The study revealed that the rate of staining was most pronounced in the case of Wild Tiger, while it was comparatively lower for Monster Energy Ultra-Sunrise. These findings were established through an examination of the kinetic and thermodynamic behavior of surface color changes in micro-hybrid composites treated with the three energy drink solutions.

Conclusions:

The observed patterns aligned with the pseudo second-order model. It was observed that the Red Bull drink displayed a negative activation energy, resulting in a slower color change rate with increase in temperature. In contrast, endothermic, spontaneous, and regular staining activity was demonstrated throughout time by Monster Energy Ultra-Sunrise and Wild Tiger.
Malocclusion and Deleterious Oral Habits in Vietnamese Children Between the Ages of 8 and 12 years: A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Nguyen Thao Phuong , Le Lam Nguyen , Le Khanh Phuong Vu
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Aim:

This study aimed to determine the relationship between malocclusion and deleterious oral habits in the Vietnamese children aged 8–12 years.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional descriptive analysis was undertaken on a total of 434 children (8–12 years old, 208 males and 226 females), separated into five age groups: 8 years old (16.8%), 9 years old (18.5%), 10 years old (20.7%), 11 years old (21.4%), and 12 years old (22.6%), with all four first permanent molars erupted, no previous orthodontic treatment, loss of the second primary molar or presence of the second primary molar root or decay, loss of surface material on the second primary molar, and underfilling of the second primary molar size in the mesiodistal direction. The deleterious oral habits and malocclusion were assessed through a clinical examination and questionnaires for parents. The descriptive statistical analysis revealed the following findings: mean and standard deviation. The chi-squared test and Fisher’s exact test were used to compare categorical variables. The data were considered significant at P < 0.05.

Result:

Deleterious oral habits were found to have a significant relationship with malocclusion. Mouth breathing habits were associated with anterior open bites (P < 0.05). The tongue thrusting habit was associated with anterior open bite (P < 0.05), posterior crossbite (P < 0.01), overbite greater than 4 mm (P < 0.01), and angle class I malocclusion (P < 0.05). Chewing habits on one side were associated with posterior crossbite (P < 0.01) and posterior open bite (P < 0.05). The habit of pen/pencil/nail biting was associated with midline deviation (P < 0.05). As children got older, there was a greater need for orthodontic treatment for dental healthcare, according to the index of orthodontic treatment need. In the 8-year-old patient group, the need was 4.1%; in the 9-year-old patient group, it was 5%; in the 10-year-old patient group, it was 9%; in the 11-year-old patient group, it was 19.4%; and in the 12-year-old patient group, it was 22.4%. The distribution of orthodontic treatment needs for dental health was significantly different based on the number of deleterious oral habits children had (P < 0.01).

Conclusion:

Abnormal oral habits were prevalent in about 30.6% of the study participants. Mouth breathing, tongue thrusting, pen/pencil/nail biting, and one-side chewing had a significant impact on malocclusion.
Oral Health Status and Oral Healthcare System in Indonesia: A Narrative Review
Authors: Chairunisa Fania , Ramadhani Aulia , Takehara Sachiko , Thwin Kaung Myat , Tun Tin Zar , Okubo Hikaru , Hanindriyo Lisdrianto , Bramantoro Taufan , Ogawa Hiroshi
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Aim:

To assess the current situation regarding oral health status and system in Indonesia through the existing literature and government documents, identify challenges, and propose recommendations for the future.

Materials and Methods:

A literature search was conducted from June to October 2023 through the scientific databases of PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, including published articles from 2013 to 2023. The following main keywords were used: “Indonesia,” “oral health system,” “oral healthcare system,” “oral health policy,” “oral health promotion,” “oral health coverage,” and “oral health status.” Articles without any restrictions on study design, review articles, regional or national oral health reports, and Indonesian health laws or regulations were included. Data extracted from the included studies were synthesized and presented into several subgroups.

Results:

Despite the establishment of a health system in 1982, the oral health status of Indonesian people remains unsatisfying. The prevalence of untreated caries and periodontal disease is still high. Several policies and programs have been implemented to tackle those problems; however, Indonesia still has many challenges to overcome, including geographic constraints, uneven distribution of dental personnel, low public awareness and information on oral care utilization, insufficient resource allocation, and lack of prevention and promotion programs.

Conclusion:

The oral health status of the Indonesian population remains unsatisfactory. Future actions should emphasize on equal access and distribution of dental care, strengthen monitoring and evaluation of ongoing programs, integrate oral health into the national health agenda, and allocate adequate resources to support oral health initiatives.
The Importance of Bone Quality Diagnostics in Preventing Displacement of Dental Implants within the Mandibular Body: A Case Report
Authors: Rosas-Díaz José , Guerrero Maria Eugenia , Galindo-Gómez Maisely , García-Luna Marco , Espinoza-Figini Edwin , Cayo-Rojas César
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Among the immediate complications that can occur after dental implant placement, accidental displacement within the medullary spaces of the mandibular body is a rare clinical situation. This case report describes implant displacements in the posterior mandibular region and emphasizes the importance of assessing bone density and mandibular medullary patterns prior to implant placement according to a new classification by Lekholm and Zarb modified by Rosas et al. The case reports reported three implant displacements in type II bone of the mandibular body, as classified by Lekholm and Zarb. Following the complication, the bone was reclassified as II-B according to the modification by Rosas et al. The implants were extracted from three female patients aged from 37 to 75 years, with only one having a medical history. All complications were treated and resolved without any alteration after implant removal. To reduce the risk of intraoperative complications that affect the primary stability of dental implants, such as implant migration in the mandibular body, it is important to consider factors that may affect the mechanical locking of the implant at the time of placement, such as the pattern and thickness of the bony trabeculae and the size of the medullary spaces in areas of anatomical risk. For this purpose, we recommend using the modified Lekholm and Zarb classification by Rosas et al. This classification considers the trabecular bone biotype, which helps in planning the surgical approach procedure and establishing a regenerative protocol to minimize the risk of complications with the inferior dental nerve.
A Long-Term Retrospective Real-World Evidence to Understand the Pattern of Insulin Prescription in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Evaluating the Role of Insulin Initiation
Authors: Kumar Shishir
Published: October 2024

Aims and Objective:

To evaluate the prescription pattern of insulin and oral antidiabetic drugs (OADs) and the trend of glycemic control in people with diabetes (PwD) with type 2 diabetes mellitus attending a tertiary care center in India.

Materials and Methods:

This retrospective, cross-sectional observational study included clinic records of 647 PwD collected at three different time points (2011, 2015, and 2019). Population characteristics, patterns of glycemic parameters, and trends of antidiabetic medication were analyzed.

Results:

PwD population was similar in terms of anthropometric and clinical variables. Dysglycemia was observably higher in the 2015 population (mean HbA1C = 8.37 ± 1.8%) compared with the 2011 population (6.4 ± 0.4%) and stabilized in the 2019 population (8.35 ± 1.9%) compared with the 2015 population. This correlated with the trend of increase in basal and bolus insulin prescriptions as more subjects were initiated on insulin to address the higher dysglycemia in 2015 than in 2011 and were later titrated in 2019. The proportion of subjects with uncontrolled diabetes increased marginally in 2015 (50.9%) compared with 2011 (45.6%) and decreased significantly in 2019 (34.1%) compared with 2015. This correlated with the additive increases of premix insulin, sodium-glucose transport protein 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i), and dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors (DPP4i) prescriptions.

Conclusion:

We observed a judicious usage of insulin prescriptions correlating with the higher need for PwD to be initiated with basal insulin to counter the increasing trend of dysglycemia, followed by more premix insulin prescriptions to address stabilized dysglycemia. Optimal diabetes control can be partly attributed to dysglycemia stabilization by insulin initiation and usage of newer OADs, such as SGLT2i and DPP4i.
Comparison of the Results of Combined Epidural Steroid Injection with Other Approaches in Lumbar Disc Herniation: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Yüksel MO , Kolutek Ay B , Besnek A , Erdogan B
Published: October 2024

Background:

Epidural steroid injection (ESI) is a minimally invasive treatment for lumbar disc herniation (LDH). It can be applied using a transforaminal (TFESI), interlaminar (ILESI), caudal (CESI), or combined (TFESI + CESI) approach.

Aim:

To compare the effectiveness of the three ESI approaches and the combined ESI application in reducing pain in patients with single or multi-level LDH.

Methods:

In this retrospective study, we included 239 patients diagnosed with LDH (who complained of low back pain for at least 3 months, had no neurological deficit or history of lumbar surgery, and were not contraindicated for ESI application) who received ESI and were followed up clinically for 2 years. Demographic (age, sex, body mass index (BMI)) and clinical data (duration of low back pain, visual analog scale (VAS) scores before and after ESI, and procedure-related information) were obtained from medical records. The VAS scores noted before treatment and at 3 months, 1 year, and 2 years after ESI were compared.

Results:

The post-treatment VAS scores of the combined ESI (TFESI + CESI) group were significantly lower than those of other approaches applied alone (P < 0.05). Furthermore, VAS scores of the ILESI and CESI groups were significantly lower than those of the TFESI group at all three post-treatment time points (P < 0.05). The patient’s age and BMI were weakly correlated with the post-treatment VAS scores.

Conclusion:

Combined ESI is more effective than any single-approach ESI in LDH and should be considered in suitable patients to increase treatment effectiveness.