bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Employee Empowerment and Job Satisfaction in Nepalese Commercial Banks
Authors:   Purbanchal University, Nepal, Shakya Sonila , KC Pradeep ,   Purbanchal University, Nepal
Published: January 2024

The discourse surrounding the issue of employee empowerment (EE) has consistently been of great importance on a global level. The aim of this study is to assess the status, relationship, and impact of employee empowerment and job satisfaction in Nepalese commercial banks. The study employed a deductive approach with descriptive and analytical research designs. The study population includes all employees working in Nepalese commercial banks in Sunsari, totaling 258 individuals. A structured questionnaire was designed to collect primary data through convenience sampling with a five-point Likert scale. SPSS was used to manage and analyze data. Cronbach alpha was used to test the reliability of constructs and descriptive statistics were used to assess the status of employee empowerment and job satisfaction. Furthermore, inferential statistics were used to analyze the relationship and level of significance between variables and measure the impact of employee empowerment on job satisfaction. The research findings indicate that employees have a positive response towards all dimensions of employee empowerment and job satisfaction. Furthermore, the finding revealed a significant impact of employee empowerment on job satisfaction. Thus, commercial banks should continuously work on programs empowering employees to enhance job satisfaction.
Sustainability Perspective of Semi-Solid Waste : Economy, Environment and Employment
Authors:   Department of UG Management Studies, School of Leadership and Management, Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies, Arya R K , Singh Anjali ,   Department of UG Management Studies, School of Leadership and Management, Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies
Published: January 2024

Waste management from the perspective of healthy environment is for any civilised society. India is gradually coming to the term of good well-being for its people. There are several impediments in building healthy environment and contain the avoidance morality rate. Waste creation itself is the mind-boggling issue in India. For example, each person can’t be given right or full contentment to have safe drinking water because water accessibility itself is flawed, rivers are hardly clean undoubtedly and hence water which is either used for human consumption or irrigation is not guaranteed free from contamination and toxicity flowing in the farms which poison the vegetable at least since its creation is under clout at first instance, how one can expect its proper treatment which needs significant cost. Organic waste can be separated with minimum intervention and least cost and hence there is a good amount of success on Bioenergy production. But issues of plastic waste and water waste are still unresolvable in India. The cost due to diseases is also insurmountable in India.
Readiness for New Ventures in South Africa Through Entrepreneurship Education: A Reflective Thematic Approach
Authors:   Centre for Entrepreneurship Rapid Incubator, Walter Sisulu University, South Africa, Lose Thobekani , Cheteni Priviledge ,   Centre for Entrepreneurship Rapid Incubator, Walter Sisulu University, South Africa
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this research is to investigate what factors affect students' readiness to start their own businesses once they graduate from college. Case study research was conducted with an emphasis on an undergraduate degree program at a South African university. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with 15 program participants and analyzed using a reflective theme analysis method. Our findings suggest that the experiential learning methodology employed at the university increases students' levels of self-efficacy in the realm of entrepreneurship, i.e., their belief in their own abilities to create and run successful firms. They look at the benefits of going into business for themselves with optimism. However, our findings suggest that certain students may lack the confidence to take initiative and try new things, making the social support system of teammates and teachers all the more important for helping them feel safe enough to try new things and succeed.
Does business cycles influence FDI inflows- A case study of India
Authors:   Management Development Institute Gurgaon, India, Kaushal Leena Ajit
Published: January 2024

The present study investigates the dynamic association between foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows and business cycles in India. FDI plays a crucial role in fostering a nation's economic progress and promoting technical growth. Nonetheless, foreign investments also exhibit synchronous relationship with the business cycles, which are relatively more evident in the present uncertain times. Finding reveal that foreign investments in India have a countercyclical trend, meaning they tend to move in the opposite direction of the business cycle, both in the short and long term. Nevertheless, the immediate consequences of this countercyclical activity outweigh the long-term consequences.
What makes Vietnam a more attractive FDI destination than India
Authors:   Management Development Institute Gurgaon, India, Kaushal Leena Ajit
Published: January 2024

The study examines the crucial drivers that make Vietnam a preferred FDI destination over India following the ‘China plus one’ strategic initiative by the global MNCs to diversify their supply chains and expand operations beyond China. Findings reveal that Vietnam offers numerous benefits, including closeness to China, competitive manufacturing costs, a favorable investment climate, and excellent manufacturing capabilities. However, challenges like infrastructural development and talent shortages must be addressed. In addition, labor, trade, and financial freedom are the prospective areas where India need to expedite its reforms to provide conducive business environment.
Lecturer Perspectives on the Relevance of Skills and Credentials in the Teaching of Entrepreneurship
Authors:   University of Johannesburg, South Africa, Mkwanazi Sizwe
Published: January 2024

This paper analyses lecturer perspectives about skills and credentials relevant in the teaching of entrepreneurship in a university-based business school/department. The theoretical approach of this paper observes Myles Mace’s profile dating from 1947 at Harvard Business School as one of the first pioneers in the teaching entrepreneurship at university. In addition, other profiles, and theoretical frames of teaching entrepreneurship in business schools are engaged. The research employs a case study design to answer a research question: What skills and credentials are relevant in teaching entrepreneurship, successfully, in an unequal society and within a business school? Seven (7) in-depth semi-structured interviews with academics at a university-based business-school and in the business management department were conducted. Different perspectives were documented. These fresh perspectives depart from the externalist agency views that tend to apply in determining the desirable skills and credentials of an entrepreneurship lecturer. The findings in this study show that experience in years of teaching plays a key role in the lecturers’ abilities to teach the subject dynamically, confidently, and critically. The study concludes that the lecturer’s academic qualification and experience enhance the relevance of their teaching and enable them to explore societal issues such as inequality in relation to entrepreneurship. The range of qualifications amongst interviewees in this study show no evidence that specific qualifications and credentials are more relevant than others, rather displays that lecturers in entrepreneurship find their unique voice and areas of interest. This research contributes to scholarly debates about what it takes to be a credible “teacher” in entrepreneurship. The practical implications of this study propose better support for entrepreneurship lecturers through focused development programmes, affiliation in progressive entrepreneurship networks and capacity building beyond KPIs. Future research must tackle lecturer capabilities to teach entrepreneurship in a context of an increasingly inequitable society.
Resilience Amongst Students at a University that Promotes Entrepreneurship
Authors:   College of Business and Economics School of Management, Department of Business Management, University of Johannesburg , South Africa, Mkwanazi Sizwe
Published: January 2024

Students, particularly those that are classified as disadvantaged, face many struggles in higher education. These are students from low-income backgrounds and often rely on the campus facilities to enrich their university experience and to make up for some of their disadvantage. Since the Covid-19 pandemic research in higher education has been following the trends in student life experiences and development. Most of this research suggests that Covid-19 has created new challenges for students and the university. While this is true most of the challenges were already present but only amplified by the Covid-19 pandemic. This paper argues that Covid-19 has only been a season of hard “reboot” into resilience. Qualitative data from thirteen (13) semi-structured interviews with South African university students is used to demonstrate the Covid-19's re-awakening of resilience amongst disadvantaged students. This data is also analysed to understand the effects of resilience in the broader student experience in higher education. The data shows that students have concerns about on and off-campus experiences, turbulent online learning, and limited funding as well as the livelihood strategies they have had to adopt. The findings show the lived experience of performing against all odds amongst disadvantaged students. It is also evident that while this is embraced by society and some research it normalises student hardship and campus inequities. In conclusion the blind-spots in student hardship and as exacerbated by Covid-19 are highlighted. This paper assists researchers, university management and student development officers to meet halfway the student resilient efforts in a meaningful way. In practice this research provides university entrepreneurship mentors and student development practioners with tangible student needs to consider when dealing with students amidst a crisis, but also when mentoring students to become entrepreneurs in a difficult period.
A quantitative Study on Instructors’ perspectives about teaching modalities in the classroom for a graduate hybrid Program
Authors:   Campbellsville University, Kentucky, USA, Freitas Gabriel De , Billy Iris ,   Campbellsville University, Kentucky, USA, Crain Charles ,   Campbellsville University, Kentucky, USA, Gonzalez Ana ,   Campbellsville University, Kentucky, USA
Published: January 2024

This research article delves into the multifaceted domain of teaching modalities, exploring the diverse perspectives of instructors within the contemporary classroom environment in a graduate hybrid program, which offers classes online with partial face-to-face hours. With the rapid evolution of technology and pedagogical practices, educators are increasingly presented with a spectrum of choices regarding instructional methods. This study seeks to provide an insightful analysis of instructor perspectives on these teaching modalities, shedding light on the factors that influence their adoption, efficacy, and perceived impact on student learning. To gather a comprehensive understanding, a quantitative method research approach was employed. Data was collected through surveys involving a diverse range of educators across various academic disciplines. Instructors recognize the importance of adaptability in the modern classroom. They acknowledge that students possess varying learning styles and preferences, and, as a result, teaching modalities must be flexible to accommodate these differences. Educators increasingly embrace blended learning models, combining face-to-face instruction with online elements, to cater to the diverse needs of their students. The purpose of this research article is to offer a comprehensive analysis of instructors’ perspectives on teaching modalities in the classroom. Emphasizing the importance of adaptability, the role of technology, the need for professional development, and the evolution of assessment practices in shaping contemporary pedagogy. Understanding and respecting the varied viewpoints of instructors is essential for the successful integration of teaching modalities and, ultimately, for improving the quality of education in the digital age.
Technology and Institutions: What can research on Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology and institutions learn from each other?
Authors:   Campbellsville University, Louisville, USA, Billy Iris , Anush Hannah ,   Campbellsville University, Louisville, USA
Published: January 2024

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is not contained within the walls of technological organizations; over the decades, it has significantly impacted other industries due to the exponential practical implications of the technology and major break throughs as a result of AI implementation. Many authors have conducted relevant research about AI and its assistance in industries like banking and finance, education, manufacturing, healthcare, and others to find direct correlation between application of AI technology in data analysis, decision-making, end user impact and satisfaction, time, and cost savings. This study aims to perform in-depth analysis of various previous studies, and to conduct market research to comprehend the meeting point of Artificial general intelligence and Institutions and what they have to offer to each other; a detailed analysis of the way various strategies applicable through machine learning, deep learning techniques, voice and face recognition applications, expert systems assisting in comprehending customer behavior and patterns, and to identify potential demand, automation of key functions of inter-organization departments through algorithms, and building blocks that form institutions can be adopted by AI for future models and prospectives, and also to understand any gaps in the practical implications of AL that institutions can possibly incorporate in the future; thereby increasing efficiency and effectiveness of both AI and Institutions.
Marital Property in Marriages of Different Nationalities in Indonesia According to National Law and Islamic Law
Authors: Maula Bani Syarif , Zain Muhammad Fuad , Nada Syifaun
Published: January 2024

Indonesian legislation stipulates that individuals from foreign countries residing in Indonesia and foreign legal entities with representatives in the country are expressly barred from possessing land. This provision poses challenges for individuals in marriages involving different nationalities, particularly when one spouse is an Indonesian citizen, as it complicates the process of acquiring ownership rights and building usage rights for a property. This research explores the legal regulations pertaining to marital property in marriages involving individuals of distinct nationalities, navigating the intersection between national law and Islamic law. Employing qualitative research methods with a normative approach, the study relies on legal materials as primary data sources. The findings of this study indicate that, in accordance with national law, assets acquired during the course of marriage are deemed joint property. Nonetheless, it is noteworthy that this provision does not extend to marital assets in the form of land and buildings for foreign spouses. Conversely, Islamic law does not explicitly delve into this matter. Nevertheless, it delineates that the resolution of joint property in marriages encompassing individuals of diverse nationalities is governed by national laws pertaining to citizenship rights. In the case of foreign citizens, the relevant statute is the Agrarian Law, which specifically governs ownership rights concerning land and buildings.
Independent method for the identification o driving train as an alternative to critical rail infrastructure monitoring
Authors: Burdzik Rafał , Słowiński Paweł
Published: January 2024

The article presents a novel, independent method for recognizing the type of moving rail vehicle as an alternative to current solutions. The procedure for the implementation of the developed method consists of the following stages: registration of vibroacoustic signals, normalization of signals, preliminary statistical analysis, selection of WT analysis wavelets, MODWT analysis, completion of a database with information on the relative energy of the signal, compilation of results and determination of features distinguishing rail vehicles in terms of the information capacity of the vibroacoustic signal, final classification of the type of vehicle.
Analysis of methods for reducing the number of false alarms in video-based fire detection systems
Authors: Mazur Michał
Published: January 2024

The article focuses on a review and analysis of methods for reducing false alarms in video-based fire detection systems (VBFDS). The author of the article has designed a neural network and video-based flame detection algorithm to evaluate the effectiveness of methods found in the literature and other sources. The video-based flame detection algorithm was designed using a CIFAR-10-NET convolutional neural network. The D-Fire database, which contains 50000 fire images, was used to learn and test the algorithm. An error matrix was used to determine the effectiveness of the algorithm and methods to reduce the number of false alarms in video-based fire detection systems to determine parameters such as sensitivity (True Positive Rate, TPR), precision (Positive Predictive Value, PPV) and accuracy (ACC).
The concept of a mobile system for detection fire phenomena based on convolutional neural network
Authors: Tatko Sebastian
Published: January 2024

The research problem taken up in the article is the development of an efficient, mobile and effective fire detection algorithm based on the architecture of artificial neural networks. Both the process of training and inference of CNNs is burdened with a high demand for computing power. In the case of desktop devices, equipped with powerful processors and graphics cards, this process is largely facilitated and does not cause great difficulties. Another situation, however, is the desire to create a detection algorithm that in its performance will not differ from the stationary version, nevertheless its additional feature will be mobility. The desire to supervise vast areas of critical infrastructure using an unmanned aerial vehicle, imposes peculiar hardware limitations, which mainly include weight and size. The creation of an algorithm that will carry out real-time fire detection under the above-mentioned assumptions will therefore be a task that will require the optimization of a trained neural network model, into a format supported by popular mobile systems such as the Raspberry Pi.
Single Mom: Pemenuhan Fungsi Afeksi dan Ekonomi pada Anak
Authors: Rositah Rositah , Hidayati Dewi Ayu
Published: January 2024

This research aims to analyze the fulfillment of economic and affectional functions for children carried out by single mothers who work as small traders in the Tamin market, Bandar Lampung city. This research is important to carry out so that single mothers continue to provide affection and economic functions even though they come from incomplete families. This research was carried out using a qualitative approach to analyze in depth the phenomena related to single mothers as well as the fulfillment of the affection and economic functions carried out by single mothers for his children. The research informants were 5 people who were single mothers who worked as small traders. Data collection techniques include observation, in-depth interviews and documentation. Data analysis was carried out in stages of reduction, data presentation and data verification. The research results show that the economic function carried out by single mothers who work as small traders is by doing side jobs, extending working hours, asking family members for help, borrowing, saving money and taking advantage of assistance from the government. Meanwhile, the affection function is carried out by spending time, controlling relationships, providing religious knowledge, giving advice
Bonding and Debonding with a Light-Activated Resin-Modified Glass-Ionomer Cement
Authors: Fricker John P
Published: January 2024

Light-activated resin-modified glass-ionomer cements have been shown to be satisfactory adhesives for the direet bonding of metal brackets in selected cases. They have the advantage over composite resins in that no etching of the enamel is required, thereby preserving the integrity of the enamel prisms. Debonding of brackets carries less risk of mechanical damage to tooth structure and the long-term 73 fluoride leach reduces the incidence of demineralisation around bracket margins. This paper descrihes the clinical technique for bonding metal brackets with these materials and some recommendations when debonding.
A Class II Division 1 Case Treated with the Herbst and Edgewise Appliances
Authors: SO Lisa L.Y.
Published: January 2024

This case was presented in a successful attempt at the Part II examination in Orthodontics of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada.
Mesial Migration of Lower Molars in Relation to Facial Growth and Eruption
Authors: Richardson Margaret E.
Published: January 2024

Mesial migration of teeth in the huccal segments is a well recognised phenomenon in the human dentition. Its aetiology is not fully understood. It has heen suggested that it is, to some extent, dependent on growth changes in the lower face.

The purpose of this investigation was to examine mesial movement of first molars in the intact lower arch in relation to the amount and direction of facial growth and eruption of teeth.

Mesial migration of lower first molars hetween 13 and 18 years was measured on 60 degree cephalograms of 22 males and 29 females with intact lower arches. Correlation analyses were used to examine the relation hetween mesial migration and tooth eruption, growth changes in mandihular length and anterior face height and direction of growth.

There was, on average, forward Jnovement of first molars of 2.0 - 3.0mm and eruption of 2.0 - 4.0mm. No relation was found hetween forward movement of first molars and their eruption or the amount and direction of facial growth.
The Force Requirements for Tooth Movement Part III: The Pressures Hypothesis Tested
Authors: Lee Brian.W.
Published: January 2024

Many experiments have investigated the force requirements for tooth movement; the diverse results so obtained have lead to controversy and resulted in an incomplete understanding of the true nature of tooth movement. This study analyses the results of two experiments4,5which investigated the relation between the force applied and the rate of tooth movement from the standpoint of the pressures exerted by the tooth root on the surrounding tooth-periodontal membrane complex. The pressure hypothesis suggested by Smith and Storey1is tested using the estimated projected area of the teeth moved in the experiments as a means of calculating the estimated pressures resulting from the application of orthodontic forces. The average pressure at which optimal rates of tooth movement occured in these experiments was 19 7 gf cm−2.
Case Report: A Re-Treatment with Computer Video Imaging Used as an Aid in Diagnosis and Planning
Authors: Geenty J.P. , Sarver D.
Published: January 2024

David Sarver graduated from the University of Alabama in 1977 and completed his graduale training in Orthodontics in 1979 at the University of North Carolina.

He is in private practice in Birmingham, Alabama and is also an Adjunct Professor at the University of North Carolina.
Automating Letters with Microsoft Word for Windows
Authors: Gerraty Brian J.
Published: January 2024

This article offers a simple process for creating a series of separate letter formats and then automating the production of individual letters from them.

These letter formats can then he assembled into various categories and displayed on a computer screen. The key concepts are: Templates, Fields, Auto Macros, Macros and Custom Dialog Boxes.

This is made possible because Word for Windows allows the exploration and alteration of its basic editing commands. It has great flexibility as nothing is set in concrete: a built-in command macro may be changed and a eustom macro created to replace it.

This article assumes the use of Microsoft Word 6.0 and some familiarity with it. The various macros notated are ‘syntax sensitive’ so a full stop or comma in the wrong place, or left out, will result in the macro failing to run.
A simple mathematical study of anterior dental relations Part III: incisor and canine overbite
Authors: Cordato Mark A.
Published: January 2024

Two previous articles described horizontal interarch relations with a simple model developed. This paper required further development of the horizontal relations to al low vertical overlap to be studied. An analysis of orthodontic and dental-prosthetic models provided values to refine horizontal description then guide vertical calculations. Tooth thickness and angles of the maxiIlary teeth were related to horizontal overlap to produce an estimate of potential overbite. Principles were derived from the calculations and stated. Change can be predicted for overjet and overbite during and after orthodontic treatment. This series of articles expands the logical foundations by rationally considering a broad range of anterior occlusions. There are limitations in observing one or two features of anterior occlusion without comprehending the influence of other significant measurements. Measuring change in anterior overbite is inadequate without concurrently accounting for changes of other variables such as: spacing/enlarging/hypodontia; crowding; buccal relations and tooth thickness. A better understanding of anterior dental relations is possible from use of this model and the principles derived from it.
The similarity between parents and offspring in facial soft tissue: a frontal-view study
Authors: Chang Chen-hsin , Miyazono Hisanobu , Komiya Tomoyuki , Nakasima Akihiko
Published: January 2024

Similarities between parents and their offspring in facial soft tissue features were investigated. Fifty boys and fifty girls aged 9-10 years, excluding those with congenital anomalies, were selected. Frontal photographs of the family (father, mother and offspring) were taken and twenty-nine landmarks located on each enlarged tracing made from a photograph. Each landmark was digitised into (x, y) co-ordinate values from which the area and linear ratio dimensions were calculated and statistically evaluated. Results indicated that: (1) The nose was the feature that was most significantly correlated between parents and offspring. (2) The similarities between parents and offspring were closer for the relative positions of other features to the eyes than for individual features of the face. In generał, the correlations between ‘midparents’ (the mean value of both parents) and offspring were higher than those between one parent and offspring. (3) The correlations between parents and offspring for size were higher than those for shape. (4) The similarities between mothers and offspring were closer than those between fathers and offspring. Furthermore: among four pairs of father/son, father/daughter, mother/son and mother/daughter, the mother/daughter pair had the highest correlation and the father/son pair had the lowest, which appears to be related to X-chromosome inheritance.
An odontometric study of a Tibetan population
Authors: Divakar Karanth H.S. , Jayade V.P.
Published: January 2024

Most of the indices of the norms of tooth dimensions established from model studies are those of a Western population. At present there are few norms for Oriental populations. This study was aimed at establishing mare Oriental norms for various indices and the average tooth size of a particular Tibetan population, Tibetans being a distinct Mongolian type. The overall picture that emerges from all the established indices is that Tibetan teeth are broad and short Mongoloids have a euryprosopic or wide face and a brachycephalic head. This study indicated that the teeth, dental arches and basal areas of the Tibetans in this group conform to this skeletal foundation.
Lingual orthodontics: a review of its history
Authors: Poon Kah Chai , Taverne Aart A.R.
Published: January 2024

When lingual orthodontics was first introduced about twenty years ago same called it the ‘ultimate aesthetic appliance’. Patients and practitioners embraced this new treatment alternative with high expectations. Reports of disappointing results and high costs dampened much of the initial excitement and enthusiasm gradually waned. By the late 1980s, the number of practitioners using the technique had fallen sharply, leaving only a handful who still believed in its potential. Relatively little has been written on lingual orthodontics, almost nothing in recent years. This article takes an objective view of its present status.
Orthodontic treatment planning for inclusion of the third molar in the dental arches: Part II
Authors: Lin John Jin-Jong
Published: January 2024

Marked lower anterior crowding (late crowding or post-adolescent crowding) often develops at about the time of third molar eruption.1,2,3 Many studies2–12 have implicated the presence of third molars as a cause of this crowding. Despite the fact that there is no clear evidence that this is the case,3–17 many orthodontists and their patients’ referring dentists routinely remove third molars at the retention stage of treatment to prevent crowding later; Ricketts et al.18 even advocate enucleation of the third molar while the patient is very young to prevent future crowding In the following report on two orthodontically-treated patients (the first three cases in this report were published in The Australian Or thodontic Journal, Volume 15, Number 1), the author emphasises the importance of careful consideration of the third molar in the treatment plan.
Two-phase treatment of an Angle Class II division 2 malocclusion
Authors: Rapaport Morris
Published: January 2024

This case report describes a two-phase approach to the treatment of an Angle Class II division 2 malocclusion in a growing boy. The first phase utilised a functional appliance (Clark Twin Blocks) du ring puberty and achieved a pleasing improvement in the facial profile. The second phase involved a fixed upper and lower Begg appliance without extractions, followed by retention. An unexpected complication was the failure of the lower left second molar to erupt; surgical removal of cystic elements surrounding this tooth, followed by traction and, later, mechanics to correct the buccal cross-bite, eventually corrected its position.
Anomalous dental morphology and root resorption during orthodontic treatment: a pilot study
Authors: Thongudomporn Udom , Freer Terrence J
Published: January 2024

The present study investigated the relation between anomalous dental morphology and root resorption during orthodontic treatment. One hundred and eleven sets of orthodontic records (a total of 1,630 teeth) were examined. Root resorption was determined from post-treatment panoramie radiographs using a five-grade quantitative measurement. It was found that patients with short or blunt roots before treatment underwent significant root shortening during or thodontic treatment. Patients with any one dental anomaly had a significantly higher degree of root resorption compared with patients with no dental anomaly. Invaginated teeth, teeth with thin or pipette-shaped roots and teeth with short or blunt roots were likely to be more susceptible to root resorption than those without such anomalies. Possible linkages between the aetiological factors of dental anomalies and the susceptibility to root resorption were discussed. The presence of anomalous dental morphology should be taken into account in or thodontic treatment planning.
Craniofacial morphology in Chinese and Swedish children with Angle Class I and Class II occlusal relations
Authors: Zeng Xiang-Long , Forsberg Carl-Magnus , Linder-Aronson Sten
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this study was to compare the craniofacial morphology of a group of Chinese children from northern China with a group of Swedish children. Each ethnic group comprised 20 boys and 20 girls with Class I occlusion, and 20 boys and 20 girls with Class II occlusion. The ages of the children ranged from eight to ten years. Lateral cephalometric radiographs were used for the recording of a number of skeletal, dental, nasopharyngeal airway, and hyoid bone variables. The results of the comparisons of the two ethnic groups showed that the antero-posterior dimensions of the anterior cranial base and the maxilla in the Chinese children were significantly smaller than the corresponding dimensions in the Swedish children. The mean values of anterior and posterior face heights, inclination of the upper incisors, and protrusion of the lower incisors, were significantly greater in the Chinese than in the Swedish samples. In the median piane, the size of the nasopharyngeal airway was significantly greater in the Chinese than in the Swedes. This difference was due to the fact that the soft tissues covering the posterior nasopharyngeal wali were thinner in the Chinese children than in the Swedish children. In generał, the ethnic differences were the same in the Class I and the Class II groups. The differences in some of the dental and skeletal characteristics found between northern Chinese and Caucasian children are similar to previously described differences between southern Chinese and Caucasian children.
The reproducibility of cephalometric landmarks: an experimental study on skulls
Authors: Hägg Urban , Cooke Michael S. , Chan Tommy C.K. , Tng Tony T.H. , Lau Paul Y.W.
Published: January 2024

Few previous cephalometric studies have used dry skulls in order to eliminate the effects of the facial soft tissues. The aim of this study were to quantify the intra-examiner reproducibility of the commonly used cephalometric landmarks, angles and distances, using dry skulls and to compare these errors with previous error data obtained from normal cephalograms of living patients.

Thirty skulls were mounted in a purpose designed holder and repeat cephalograms of each skull were recorded and digitised. All measurements were made relative to an X-Y coordinate reference grid. Scattergrams were produced to show the characteristic distribution of the intra-examiner reproducibility errors for the landmarks, and the reproducibility of the angles and distances were tabulated. This data was compared with a related study that included the soft tissue profile.

The standard deviations of the skeletal and dental angles and distances were greater in the presence of the soft tissues. These differences were up to four times larger for measurements including the location of Nasion (e.g. SNA, SNB and SNPg), which was the landmark location most affected by the presence of soft tissues, and for the distance: lncisal tip of Lower lncisor to Pogonion. Anterior Nasal Spine, in the horizontal piane, was also greatly affected by the presence of the soft tissues.

By using dry skulls, the errors observed in this study may serve as standards for the rational interpretation of clinical cephalometric values.
A twelve-month clinical trial comparing the bracket failure rates of light-cured resin-modified glass-ionomer adhesive and acid-etch chemical-cured composite
Authors: Fowler Peter V.
Published: January 2024

A clinical study was undertaken to compare the failure rate over a twelve-month period of orthodontic brackets bonded with a light-cured resin-modified glass-ionomer (Fuji Ortho LC-GC International Japan) and an acid-etch chemically-cured two-paste composite (Orthodontic Concise - 3M USA). Failure rates of 6.1 per cent and 5.4 per cent respectively were reported, with no statistically significant difference b etween the two adhesives. This finding, along with the relative ease of use and possible advantages of reduced risk of peribracket demineralisation, suggests that the resin-modified glass-ionomer adhesive may become more popular as a bracket adhesive.
Activator and Begg appliance management of a severe Angle Class II, division 1 malocclusion
Authors: Cameron J. , Sampson W.J.
Published: January 2024

A male patient aged 12 years 11 months presented with the chief complaint of prominent, spaced upper teeth and was keen to overcome his dental problem.
Variations in treatment need using four screening methods
Authors: Freer Elissa , Freer Terrence J.
Published: January 2024

The study models of 100 Grade Seven students were used to compare the Dental Aesthetic Index (DAI), the Dental Health Component (DHC) and the Aesthetic Component (AC) of the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN), and the Danish Ministry of Health (DMH) screening system. The basis for comparison was the agreed subjective assessment of two orthodontists for each subject. Disagreements between the subjective assessment and each screening method were further analysed in an attempt to identify the specific occlusal traits responsible for the disagreement. The DAi under-estimated treatment need in cases with displaced canine teeth, incisor crowding or rotations and increased overbite. The DAi over-estimated treatment need in cases with increased overjet in otherwise well-aligned arches. The DMH guidelines over-estimated treatment need in cases with increased overjet and crowded arches. The DHC was found to be over-sensitive in cases with increased overjet and contact point displacements greater than 2 mm. The AC under-estimated treatment need in cases with excessive overjet and buccally displaced canines, and over-estimated treatment need in cases with spaced arches and deep overbite.
EICO-1: an orthodontist-maintained expert system in clinical Orthodontics
Authors: Poon Kah Chai , Freer Terrence J.
Published: January 2024

Expert systems are increasingly being used to provide comprehensive interpretative services for diagnosis and treatment planning. Some of these systems are constrained by the complexities of rulebased strategies and a need for knowledge engineers throughout the maintenance phase. A new approach to knowledge acquisition known as Ripple-Down-Rules was used in the development of EICO-1 (Expert lnterpretation in Clinical Orthodontics). This expert-maintained system for automating orthodontic reports has a knowledge base of six hundred and eighty rules, and is maintained by an expert trained only in Orthodontics and without the help of knowledge engineers. EICO-1 is the first expert system in Dentistry to use Ripple-Down-Rules. It has potential as an interactive advisory tool and is applicable in a clinical situotion.
The effect of orthodontic treatment on salivary flow, pH, buffer capacity, and levels of mutans streptococci and lactobacilli
Authors: Chang H.S. , Walsh Laurence J. , Freer Terrence J.
Published: January 2024

Fixed orthodontic treatment has been shown to cause an increased incidence of enamel demineralisation. The purpose of this study was to investigate the changes in stimulated salivary flow role, pH, buffer capacity, and the levels of mutans streptococci (MS) and lactobacilli in patients undergoing therapy with fixed orthodontic appliances. Saliva samples, plaque index scores and dietary histories were token from 21 sequential patients before the start of treatment, and one month and three months after placement of brackets and bands. There was a statistically significant increase in stimulated salivary flow rate, pH, buffer capacity, plaque index scores, and in the levels of MS and lactobacilli after three months of active treatment. It is postulated that the bolonce between the cariogenic challenge posed by high levels of MS and lactobacilli, and the reparative effects of concurrent increases in salivary flow role, pH and buffer capacity, determines the likelihood of minerał loss or gain over time. A failure to follow basie preventive measures may increase the risk for some patients of enamel decalcification during orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances.
Bond strengths of orthodontic brackets to restorative resin composite surfaces
Authors: Lai Poon Y. , Woods Michael G. , Tyas Martin J.
Published: January 2024

In orthodontic practice, it is not uncommon to bond brackets to resin composite restorations. With this in mind, this study was designed to compare first the shear/peel strengths of metal, ceramic and polycarbonate brackets bonded to microfilled resin composite (RC), using either a light-cured resinmodified gloss ionomer cement (Fuji Ortha LC), a chemical-cured composite (System 1 +) or a lightcured composite adhesive (Transbond XT); and then to examine the effects of thermacycling on the shear/peel strengths of these systems. Four different brackets were used: Iwo stainless steel (Victory and Optimesh), one ceromie (Transcend 6000) and one polycarbonate (Spirit MB) Seventy-two specimens of each bracket were divided inta three groups for bonding with one of the three adhesives. Half the specimens fram each group were also thermocycled. Mean shear/peel bond strengths were found to be significantly different for the faur different brackets, althaugh not influenced by the three adhesives used within each group. All graups were found to have clinically-acceptable mean bond strengths, except for Spirit MB-System l +. After thermocycling, both Optimesh-Transband XT and Victory-System l + groups shawed superior mean band strengths (26.8 and 24.4 MPa, respectively) when compared with all other groups (p<0.05). Applying the Weibull survival analysis for groups utilising Victory, Transcend 6000 and Spirit MB brackets, those with 90 per cent or greater probabilities of survival included Victory-System l +, Transcend 6000-Fuji Ortho LC, Victory-Fuji Ortho LC and Spirit MB-Transbond XT groups. In all graups, band failure was mainly (64 per cent) cohesive within the RC restorative surface. The thermocycled Spirit MB-Transbond XT group hod the highest frequency of undamaged RC failure interfaces. Despite the focus of this study being on bond strength and the potential for surface damage, it was noted that these properties shauld always be considered alongside other factors such as the strength of the bracket itself, friction within the bracket siat, patients’ wishes, cost of the materiols and the presenting malocclusion.
Tooth movement and vascularity of the dental pulp: a pilot study
Authors: Wong Voon-Sam , Freer Terrence J. , Joseph Bobby K. , Daley Terrence J.
Published: January 2024

The effect of orthodontic tooth movement on the dental pulp was assessed histologically in twelve subjects. The participants in this study required the extraction of at least two maxillary first premolars for orthodontic treatment. They were asked to wear a maxillary removable appliance that acted to move a randomly determined premolar in a buccal direction. The appliance was designed to avoid contacting the contra-lateral tooth that was used as the matched control. The appliance was initially worn for a week to ensure patient comfort and cooperation. The appliance was then activated and the patient dismissed. Alter two weeks, the appliance was reactivated. Both the control and experimental teeth were extracted three weeks later, on the thirty-fifth day of activated appliance wear. The teeth were fixed, decalcified and sectioned. The sections were stained with haematoxylin and eosin for histological examination. This investigation demonstrated that orthodontic tooth movement did have an effect upon the dental pulp, causing vasodilation in the pulp of an orthodontically stressed tooth.
Comprehensive treatment commenced in the mixed dentition and completed in the permanent dentition: an “early treatment” malocclusion
Authors: Woods Michael
Published: January 2024

The management of a ten-year-old female with an Angle Class II division I malocclusion is followed for nearly ten years, through active treatment, until follow-up same years later. Note is made of: the duration of the overall active treatment period; the need for considerable patient cooperation; the fact that the lower incisors did not move forward on their underlying bone while stili moving forward in relation to the APo line; and the fact that, in this instance, the third molars were chosen as appropriate teeth for extraction.
Brackets, epitopes and flash memory cards: a futuristic view of clinical orthodontics
Authors: Sims Milton R.
Published: January 2024

Orthodontics continues to be a profession anchored in traditional technology using appliances that cause inflammatory periodontal ligament (PDL) responses. Existing concepts of biological tooth movement based largely on histological tissue observations and the application of physical principles require major reassessment. In the next millennium, the genome revolution and knowledge of protein production and control could lead to the genetic correction of dentofacial anomolies and pain-free, biomolecular methods of malocclusion correction and long-term stability. A fundamental change is likely to be the abolition of bracket systems and their replacement with preprogrammed microchips driven by computers, and the control of PDL blood vessels and cells by pharmacological targeting. Future survival of the profession will depend on a radically different specialist who will be educated with a postgraduate curriculum based on molecular biology and computer engineering.
Bone induction using autogenous bone mixed with demineralised bone matrices
Authors: Rabie A. Bakr M. , Wong Ricky W. K. , Hagg Urban
Published: January 2024

The aim of the present study was to examine the healing of endochondral (EC) autogenous bone grafts in the presence of demineralised bone matrix prepared from intramembranous bone (DBMIM), or prepared from endochondral bone (DBMEC) using quantitative analysis. Thirty bone defects were created on the parietal bone of fifteen New Zealand White rabbits. In the experimental groups, five defects were grafted with EC bone, five defects were grofted with EC bone mixed with DBMIM (EC-DBMIM) and six defects were grafted with EC bone mixed with DBMEC (EC-DBMEC). In the control groups, ten defects were left empty (passive control) and four defects were grafted with rabbit skin collagen (positive control). They were all sacrificed at day fourteen post grofting, and the defects were prepared for histological analysis. Serial sections were cut across the whole defect. Quantitotive analysis was performed on 152 sections of the experimental groups by image anolysis. Four hundred and fourteen per cent more new bone was formed in defects grafted with composite EC-DBMIM than those grafted with EC bone alone (p<0.00l) Eighty-five per cent more new bone was formed in defects grafted with composite EC-DBMEC than those grafted with EC bone alone (p<0.00l). No bone was formed in either passive or positive controls. In conclusion, DBM, especially DBMIM, have extremely high osteoinductive properties and greatly enhance the integration of EC bone grafts with defects created in IM bone.