bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating agronomic traits and selection of low N-tolerant maize hybrids in Indonesia
Authors: Efendi Roy , Ismayanti Rini , Suwarti  , Priyanto Slamet Bambang , Andayani Nining Nurini , Muliadi Ahmad , Azrai Muhammad
Published: August 2024

Nitrogen is one of the macro elements that maize needs. Nitrogen deficiency will affect maize's growth and grain yield. This study aimed to determine hybrid maize's growth, grain yield, and tolerance to low N conditions. This research was conducted at the Indonesian Cereal Testing Instrument Standard Institute in Maros, South Sulawesi, Indonesia, from July to November 2022. A nested design was applied with eleven hybrid maize genotypes and three N fertilization levels (N0 = 0 kg N ha-1, N1 = 100 kg N ha-1, and N2 = 200 kg N ha-1) as treatments, replicated three times. Growth and grain yield traits were measured. An analysis of variance was used to determine the effect of fertilization level on growth. Eberhart and Russell stability analysis and the Stress Tolerance Index (STI) were used to determine hybrid maize tolerance and yield stability across the three fertilization levels. The findings indicated that the reduction in nitrogen fertilizer level affected maize agronomic performance and yield reduction. HLN 09 exhibited a mean yield of 7.68 t ha-1, surpassing the overall hybrid mean of 7.21 t ha-1. HLN 09 also demonstrated moderate stress tolerance at N2-N1, N2-N0, and N1-N0 and was characterized as a stable hybrid with regression coefficient (bi) = 0.99 and deviation from regression (s2di) = -0.22. The HLN 09 maize hybrid was a hybrid maize with good tolerance to low N conditions and high stability and yield.
A generalized viscosity forward-backward splitting scheme with inertial terms for solving monotone inclusion problems and its applications
Authors: Ungchittrakool Kasamsuk , Artsawang Natthaphon
Published: August 2024

Our aim was to establish a novel generalized viscosity forward-backward splitting scheme that incorporates inertial terms for addressing monotone inclusion problems within a Hilbert space. By incorporating appropriate control conditions, we achieved strong convergence. The significance of this theorem lies in its applicability to resolve convex minimization problems. To demonstrate the efficacy of our proposed algorithm, we conducted a comparative analysis of its convergence behavior against other algorithms. Finally, we showcased the performance of our proposed method through numerical experiments aimed at addressing image restoration problems.
Fairy circles and temporal periodic patterns in the delayed plant-sulfide feedback model
Authors: Wei Xin , Tian Jianjun Paul , Zhao Jiantao
Published: August 2024

Incorporating the self-regulatory mechanism with time delay to a plant-sulfide feedback system for intertidal salt marshes, we proposed and studied a functional reaction-diffusion model. We analyzed the stability of the positive steady state of the system, and derived the sufficient conditions for the occurrence of Hopf bifurcations. By deriving the normal form on the center manifold, we obtained the formulas determining the properties of the Hopf bifurcations. Our analysis showed that there is a critical value of time delay. When the time delay is greater than the critical value, the system will show asymptotical temporal periodic patterns while the system will display asymptotical spatial homogeneous patterns when the time delay is smaller than the critical value. Our numerical study showed that there are transient fairy circles for any time delay while there are different types of fairy circles and rings in the system. Our results enhance the concept that transient fairy circle patterns in intertidal salt marshes can infer the underlying ecological mechanisms and provide a measure of ecological resilience when the self-regulatory mechanism with time delay is considered.
An Artificial Bee Colony Algorithm for the Multidimensional Knapsack Problem
Authors: Yaghini Niusha , Valizadeh Mir Yasin Seyed
Published: August 2024

The Multidimensional Knapsack Problem (MDKP) stands as a prominent challenge in combinatorial optimization, with diverse applications across various domains. The Artificial Bee Colony (ABC) algorithm is a swarm intelligence optimization algorithm inspired by the foraging behavior of bees. The aim of this paper is to develop an ABC with the goal of improving the solution quality in comparison to previous studies for the MDKP. In the proposed ABC algorithm, a heuristic method is presented to make employed bees. The roulette wheel and k-tournament methods are investigated for selecting employed bees by onlooker bees. For crossing over, two methods including one-point and uniform are studied. To tune the parameters, the Design of Experiment (DOE) method has been applied. The well-known benchmark test problems have been used to evaluate the proposed algorithm. The results show the absolute superiority of the solutions generated by the proposed algorithm in compared with the previous studies.
Efficient Scheduling of Energy-Constrained Tasks in Internet of Things Edge Computing Networks
Authors: Chen Shaolei , Tang Hanyuan , Zhao Min , Chen Yu , Yang Xin , Hu Kejue
Published: August 2024

We offer task scheduling algorithms that are economical in terms of energy consumption for edge computing networks that are supported by the Internet of Things (IoT). The challenges of spectrum utilization and energy-efficient work scheduling that lead to novel design are not addressed in this study, despite the fact that it provides encouraging results for task offloading. There is a possibility that the larger homogeneous fog computing architecture will include all homogeneous nodes, in addition to additional spectrum for node-to-node and device-to-device communications and work scheduling. We create a fog computing architecture that is efficient in terms of energy consumption for edge computing networks that are supported by the Internet of Things. By utilizing this approach, user-device nodes are able to collaborate while simultaneously reaping the benefits of diverse computing and network resources. In addition to this, we provide a solution to the problem of task scheduling that maximizes energy efficiency across all of the help nodes.
EVIDENCIAÇÃO DE GASTOS AMBIENTAIS: ANÁLISE DAS FIRMAS QUE INTEGRAM E NÃO INTEGRAM A CARTEIRA DO ÍNDICE DE SUSTENTABILIDADE EMPRESARIAL (ISE)
Authors: Da Silva Ferreira Douglas , Santos José Glauber Cavalcante dos , Santos Gomes Gordiano Carlos Adriano , Mendes De Luca Márcia Martins
Published: August 2024

A pesquisa objetiva analisar comparativamente a evidenciação de gastos ambientais entre as firmas que integram e as que não integram a carteira do Índice de Sustentabilidade Empresarial (ISE) da bolsa de valores brasileira, Brasil Bolsa Balcão (B3). Foram examinadas, por meio da técnica de  análise de conteúdo, as notas explicativas de 181 empresas participantes da seleção para compor a carteira 2018/2019 do índice. Os resultados indicam que menos da metade dos relatórios continha informações sobre gastos ambientais, indicando uma baixa evidenciação. Ao seu tempo, observou-se que o grupo das empresas integrantes do ISE tendem a evidenciar mais gastos ambientais do que aquelas não integrantes. Prevaleceu a divulgação monetária desses gastos, porém, nesses casos, os dispêndios têm pouca representatividade sobre a receita líquida e ativos totais. Foram identificados 14 classes de gastos ambientais, sendo mais frequentes provisões e processos ambientais, gastos relacionados a riscos e recuperação ambiental. Esses tipos de gastos relacionam-se à categoria de recuperação ambiental, em detrimento dos grupos de preservação e controle ambiental. Percebeu-se também que as despesas são mais frequentes que os investimentos e os custos ambientais. Os resultados podem sinalizar a adoção de estratégias ambientais do tipo reativas compensatórias pelas empresas, o que pode refletir na elevação do risco ambiental do negócio. Ressalta-se que os gastos ambientais em relação à receita são similares nos dois grupos estudados.
Editorial - A intrusão das águas
Authors: Fantinel Leticia
Published: August 2024

O mês de maio de 2024 ficará marcado na história do Rio Grande do Sul pelas grandes enchentes e pela insuficiente resposta a elas. Este editorial discute este e outros desastres como emaranhados mais que humanos, tentando desconstruir a ideia da possibilidade de desastres "naturais". O objetivo é provocar o engajamento de explicações relacionais e situadas para esses fenômenos, que seja capaz de endereçar respostas complexas a nosso relacionamento com as diferentes formas de vida na Terra, inclusive mas não apenas humanas. E que, nessa complexidade, seja possível entender de que forma eventos extremos recentes expõem continuamente a brutal desigualdade com que afetam populações humanas e não humanas. A noção de intrusão das águas evoca a proposta de "Intrusão de Gaia" de Isabelle Stengers, e pode ajudar a revelar um esgotamento político-epistemológico da ofensiva modernizadora ocidental materializada no neoliberalismo capitalista.
Mobile applications for Medical Education and Clinical Practice
Authors: Ekanayake Chanil
Published: August 2024

No abstract available
Integrated Flight Control System Architecture and Robustness Analysis for a Lift-to-Cruise Aircraft with Incremental Nonlinear Dynamic Inversion
Authors:   University of the Bundeswehr Munich, Surmann Denis , Panchal Purav , Myschik Stephan
Published: August 2024

This paper presents the design framework for an integrated Flight Control System (FCS) of a conceptual electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicle. The aircraft integrates propeller and impeller propulsion systems with tilt deflections. In this paper, the primary FCS based on incremental nonlinear dynamic inversion (INDI) principles, is highlighted, known for its stability and robustness across diverse flight conditions, without encountering disruptive mode switching transients. The paper emphasizes the handling of measurements within the INDI framework, particularly addressing those not directly accessible through sensors. Moreover, an automated gain design tool for the nonlinear controller is introduced, focusing on achieving tuning goals in both time and frequency domains. This involves sequential linearization of the plant model and the implemented controller, facilitating comprehensive analysis to ensure safe and stable performance throughout the mission profile. The design tool further delves into realworld factors like delays, discrete computation, and uncertainties inherent in the integrated onboard plant model (OBPM). Finally, the performance of the design process is validated through nonlinear simulations.
Handling Qualities Analysis of a Large Multi-Rotor eVTOL using RPM, Collective and Cyclic Control Allocation Methods
Authors:   Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Agrawal Shivansh , Collins Kyle , Hruswicki Patric , Zuhair Syed
Published: August 2024

The Eagle Flight Research Center (EFRC) at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) is investigating the handling qualities of partial and full rotor failure modes of a multi-rotor vehicle testbed employing Distributed Electric Propulsion (DEP) systems intended for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) vehicles. In order to pave the way for commercial operations, the AAM industry requires a deeper understanding of the handling characteristics and the vehicle's dynamics and controllability under rotor failure conditions. The objective of the research performed at the EFRC centered around designing and testing different thrust and moment control allocation methods for an electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) vehicle, in addition to assessing their performance in both nominal and failure modes of operation. This paper focuses on analyzing the predicted handling qualities for a full-scale quadrotor testbed vehicle with RPM, collective, and cyclic blade pitch control allocation. The study uses flight-test data to develop a bare airframe dynamic model to optimize the controller gains, which are used to evaluate the predicted handling qualities though development of vehicle specific Handling Qualities Task Elements (HQTE) maneuvers. The evaluation is performed using an in-house built flight simulator together with the Cooper-Harper Rating Scale (CHRS) for Handling Qualities test evaluation. The handling qualities were evaluated and compared for different control strategies and a method for quantitative evaluation of handling qualities is presented.
Development and Validation of 3D Feature-Based Vision Algorithm for Autonomous Ship-Deck Landing
Authors:   University of Maryland, Britcher Victoria , Chopra Inderjit , Datta Anubhav
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we develop and validate a 3D feature-based algorithm for tracking stochastic ship-deck motion at high sea states, specifically Sea-State 6 using data from the Navy SCONE dataset. The new vision algorithm was developed from the structure-from-motion technique, which recovers the 3D structure of an object from a series of 2D images, and was validated using a simulated 3D ship-deck attached to a moving Stewart platform. Algorithm performance with different feature detectors and image resolutions was compared. In hand-held tests, the vision algorithm was demonstrated to accurately estimate the pose of a moving ship-deck using a quadrotor. Visually degraded conditions were also evaluated; the algorithm is robust to occlusion and low illumination, but performance reduces in severe glare. The vision algorithm was then validated in a simple free-flight test. All results were compared with Vicon ground-truth data. Additionally, as the 3D algorithm is computationally demanding, we develop and validate a method to improve the computational speed of the vision algorithm.
Launched Effects and Advanced Teaming Require System of System MOSA
Authors:   Parry Labs, Walsh Dave ,   US Army AvMC, Dennis Scott ,   PEO Aviation, Hammond Alan ,   Modern Technology Solutions Inc, Rupert Jason ,   Tektonux, Hubler Mike ,   Collins, Oort Levi , Sipe Matt , Rajbhandari Robin , Carter Glenn
Published: August 2024

The DoD enterprise requires a blueprint for each service and industry base to develop, integrate, and connect crewed and uncrewed platforms across the aviation and ground domains to satisfy the goals of programs such as Replicator, Human Machine Integrated Formation (HMIF) and Joint All Domain Command and Control (JADC2) as a whole. Thanks to years of architecture work by Program Executive Office (PEO) Aviation, PEO Ground Control System (GCS), and the Ground Vehicle Services Center (GVSC), the necessary open standards-based reference architectures, objective architectures, Major System Components (MSCs), and Major System Interfaces (MSIs) can be leveraged to create an executable plan for the Army, the DoD, and the international community as a whole. This paper proposes how to leverage government-owned elements across multiple Army offices to provide a Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) that achieves the speed, portability, and interoperability of capabilities needed for the conflicts of tomorrow.
The Effect of Normal Follicular Fluid on the Differentiation of PCOS Ovarian Stem Cells into Oocyte-Like Cells
Authors: Taheri Moghadam Mahin , Nazayer Hanan , Azandeh Saeed , Eftekhari Moghadam Ali R. , Nikbakht Roshan
Published: August 2024

Background:

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is one of the causes of infertility for which treatment methods do not have a high rate of pregnancy. In this study, the stem cells in the follicular fluid (FF) of patients were grown in the normal FF, and their differentiation into oocytes was evaluated.

Materials and Methods:

The FF of PCOS patients was centrifuged, and their cells were cultured with and without 20% normal FF for 2 weeks. The cells were evaluated for their morphology by inverted microscope and for markers of stem cells (NANOG and OCT4) and oocytes (zona pellucida (ZP) 2 and ZP3) by RT-PCR and immunocytochemistry. The amount of steroids was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results:

The cells were all round on day 0. After that, they had a heterogeneous morphology (fibroblast-like cells, epithelial-like cells, and round oocyte-like cells). In the first week, NANOG and OCT4 genes in the study group were less expressed than those in the control group (P < 0.0001) (~0.5-fold), while ZP2 and Z3 genes were more expressed (P < 0.0001) (~2-fold). In the second week, stem cell genes were more expressed in the control group (~2 fold), and oocyte genes were more expressed in the study group (P < 0.0001) (~2.5–3.11 fold). These results were also confirmed by immunocytochemistry. The amount of steroids was much higher in the study group (three times and five times in two weeks) (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions:

Stem cells can be obtained from the FF of PCOS, and normal FF has a positive effect on the growth and maturation of oocyte-like cells in vitro.
A Cross-Sectional Comparative Study of Morbidity and Mortality of COVID-19 Disease in four Cities of Northern Khorasan Province using Ratio of Coefficient of Variation
Authors: Bahrampour Abbas , Mahmoudi MohammadReza , Shoraka HamidReza , Avazzadeh Zeynab Alsadat
Published: August 2024

Background:

In December 2019, the spread of a new infectious disease was reported in Wuhan, caused by a new coronavirus named COVID-19 by the World Health Organization. This study aims to compare the dispersion of COVID-19 disease among four Iranian cities in North Khorasan named Bojnord, Farooj, Jajarm, and Shirvan.

Materials and Methods:

This cross-sectional study includes information about the daily morbidity and mortality of COVID-19 in 1124 patients from March to May 2021. The analysis of variance method, Scheffe post hoc technique and Leven’s test are used to compare the means and the variances of daily morbidity and mortality of these cities. Finally, the coefficients of variation (CVs) of the morbidity and mortality are compared.

Results:

The means of daily morbidity in Bojnord, Farooj, Jajarm, and Shirvan cities are 6.387, 0.946, 1.150, and 2.193, respectively. Furthermore, the means of daily mortality in Bajnourd, Farooj, Jajarm, and Shirvan are 0.763, 0.193, 0.161, and 0.290, respectively. The means and the variances of both daily mortality and morbidity are significantly different in all four cities (P < 0.05). Furthermore, CVs of daily morbidity in the cities of Bojnord, Farooj, Jajarm, and Shirvan are 0.665, 1.026, 1.032, and 0.787, respectively. The CVs of daily mortality in these cities are 1.196, 2.052, 2.468, and 1.728, respectively. The CVs of both daily mortality and morbidity are significantly different in all four cities (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

The ratio of CVs is a good option for comparing the spread of COVID-19 in different regions with different means and variances.
Non-motor symptoms in primary hemifacial spasm: A case-control study
Authors: Anudeep D. D. S. , Karthik K. , Holla Vikram V. , Kamble Nitish , Yadav Ravi , Pal Pramod K. , Mahale Rohan R.
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND:

Primary hemifacial spasm (HFS) is caused by neurovascular conflict (NVC) at the root entry zone of the facial nerve. The literature on non-motor symptoms (NMS) in HFS is limited.

OBJECTIVE:

Study aimed to assess NMS in patients with primary HFS.

METHODS:

A cross-sectional, hospital-based, case-control study recruited 50 patients with primary HFS and 50 age- and sex-matched controls. Depression, anxiety, sleep quality, and fatigue were assessed using Beck’s depression inventory (BDI), Hamilton anxiety rating scale (HAM-A), Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI), and fatigue assessment scale (FAS), respectively.

RESULTS:

A total of 30 female patients and 28 female controls were included in the study. The mean age of patients was 50.7 ± 10.7 years and that of controls was 52.4 ± 8.7 years. Seventeen patients (34%) and five controls (10%) had depression. The mean BDI score was significantly higher in patients (8.2 ± 5.6 vs. 4.0 ± 3.8; p = 0.01). Anxiety occurred in 40 patients (80%) and 4 controls (8%) (p = 0.01). The mean HAM-A score was significantly higher in patients (14.1 ± 7.0 vs. 4.8 ± 3.9; p = 0.02). The frequency of poor sleepers was significantly higher in patients (26% vs. 4%; p = 0.01); however, there was no significant difference in the mean PSQI scores (3.7 ± 4.2 vs. 1.3 ± 1.7; p = 0.08). The mean FAS score did not differ significantly between the groups (16.3 ± 3.3 vs. 14.1 ± 3.2; p = 0.24), and the fatigue frequency was similar in both groups.

CONCLUSION:

Primary HFS is associated with depression, anxiety, and poor sleep. This finding emphasizes the necessity for a psychiatric evaluation of depression and anxiety in patients with primary HFS.
Clinical Problem Solving: Relapsing Cerebral Melioidosis
Authors: Singhal Tanu , Kumar Abhaya , Nadgouda Kunal , Shah Sweta , Vyas Navita Purohit , Patel Neha
Published: August 2024

Melioidosis is a disease that is difficult to diagnose and challenging to treat. When it involves the brain, the complexities increase even further. Diagnostic challenges include those related to identification and susceptibility testing. Treatment issues encountered in this patient with neuromelioidosis related to choice and duration of initial intensive therapy and subsequent eradication therapy and their impact on relapse are discussed and highlighted.
Imaging in Rabies Encephalitis
Authors: Gupta Anghsuman , Ghosh Samrat , Mishra Atul , Srikumar Satyabrat
Published: August 2024

Rabies encephalitis is a fatal disease with few reports of survival being available. Even though rabies is definitively confirmed by virus isolation from biological samples or detection of the rabies antigen or antibodies, diagnosis is essentially clinical and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain can be used as one of the modalities of investigation for the early detection of rabies and for distinguishing it from other encephalitis.
Primary Leptomeningeal Lymphoma in HIV-infected Patients Presented with Subacute Meningitis
Authors: Gohel Swati , Patel Ketan K. , Savani Bipin N. , Patel Atul K.
Published: August 2024

Primary leptomeningeal lymphoma (PLML) is extremely rare, accounting for only 7% of all primary central nervous system lymphomas. We present a case of PLML in a person living with HIV with controlled disease, presented with low cerebrospinal fluid sugar meningitis and leptomeningeal nodular enhancement, posing a diagnostic difficulty because the presentation resembled infectious diseases.
A Challenging Case with HIV/AIDS and a Multisystem Disease
Authors: Sellamuthu Sivaranjani , Soni Mamta , Gopalakrishnan Ram
Published: August 2024

We report a case of 47 year old male from a rural area in Bihar with fever of 1 month duration, dry cough, weight loss and loss of appetite. He also had papular rash on the face. His laboratory investigations were notable for bicytopenia and elevated creatinine levels. He also had transaminase elevation, albumin globulin reversal and markedly elevated alkaline phosphatase, GGT levels. Ferritin and LDH were markedly elevated. Chest X ray and USG Abdomen revealed normal study. Bone marrow biopsy revealed the diagnosis. Eventually an unusual co infection was identified.
An Innovative Combination of Natural Therapies for the Treatment of Female Orgasmic Disorder
Authors: Si Weichen
Published: August 2024

This case report presents an innovative approach to treating female orgasmic disorder (FOD) in a 28-year-old Asian-Australian female. The patient, undergoing significant academic stress and exhibiting no prior medical or psychological conditions, presented with a 2-year history of inability to achieve orgasm despite normal sexual desire and arousal. Following a comprehensive clinical evaluation, including a physical examination and psychiatric assessment, she was diagnosed with FOD, primarily of a situational type. The treatment implemented was a unique blend of natural therapies: aromatherapy, tantric yoga, mindfulness-based therapies, Yoni massage, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. This integrative approach was conducted over 17 weeks, with each treatment of 2 weeks being followed by a 1-week break to prevent tolerance. The patient initially hesitated but consented to this bold treatment regimen. Remarkable progress was observed, with the patient achieving a strong sexual climax by the 7th week and consistent improvement thereafter. As the conclusion of the treatment and a year of follow-up, the patient reported sustained relief from her symptoms. This case illustrates the potential of combining various natural therapies in treating FOD, emphasizing the importance of patient consent and the efficacy of a holistic, intermittent treatment approach.
Prevalence of Problematic Smartphone Usage and Associated Physical and Mental Health Outcomes among College Students: A Pilot Study
Authors: Hada Rachna , Zainab Saleha , Shukla Umesh , Marwaha Nitin , Bansal Charu
Published: August 2024

Background:

The development of smartphones has caused a dramatic change in societies worldwide. It is one of the best tools that have integrated communication, education, and entertainment. Exploration of the connection between unbalanced use and different aspects of health will be evaluated such as addiction/problematic smartphone usage (PSU), social influences, and brain changes.

Objective:

The objective of the study was to identify the prevalence and consequences of PSU on physical and mental health among college students of Bhopal city.

Materials and Methods:

This study was carried out as a pilot study among 50 college students who have been using smartphones. Self-reported questionnaire containing data related to the use of smartphone, and its impact on mental health had been collected by smartphone addiction scale-short version and generalized anxiety disorder-7.

Results:

The present study reported 66% of students were smartphone addicted (55% males, 46% females), and 46% of students were using smartphone more than 6 h per day. Seventy percent of students were using smartphone >5 years. In this study, 67% of addicted students were having anxiety. Sixty-one percent of addicted students were found in 25–30 years of age group which is higher than 18–24 years of age group (only 39% of students were addicted). Twenty-one percent of addicted students were having dry eye syndrome. Twenty-one percent of addicted students were found overweight and obese.

Conclusions:

The prevalence of PSU was quite high among the college students and maximum students reported anxiety and dry eye syndrome. It is necessity of today’s era to develop awareness regarding PSU and its negative impact on physical as well as mental health.
Sahaj Vati in the Management of Obesity (Sthaulya): A Single-arm Clinical Trial
Authors: Yadav Kapil Deo
Published: August 2024

Background:

Obesity is the leading cause of death and disabilities around the world with burdens expected to increase and predict that the global economic impact will reach $4.32 trillion annually by 2035.

Aim and Objective:

To assess the effectiveness of Sahaj Vati in reduction of body weight and body mass index in obese persons.

Materials and Methods:

Sahaj Vati, herbomineral formulation, consists of Shilajeet and Guggul (Commiphora mukul), Chitrak (Plumbago zeylanica), Haridra (Curcuma longa Linn), and Agnimatha (Clerodendrum phlomidis Linn) is explored for the possible management of obesity. The study is a single arm with pre and post-test design, among the 44 patients screened, 30 patients meeting the criteria were enrolled in the study. Sahaj Vati was administered in 2 g/day in divided doses with water after meals for 3 months.

Result:

The study showed significant reduction in body mass (P < 0.001) and body mass index (P < 0.001), cholesterol (P < 0.001), and triglycerides (P < 0.001) along with significant enhancement in high-density lipoprotein (P < 0.01).

Conclusion:

Sahaja vati is effective in the reduction of body weight. The finding of the present study is encouraging and may have a beneficial role in obesity.
Evaluating and Ranking the Factors Affecting the Acute Pain Management in Older Adults with Dementia after Hip Fracture Surgery: Second-Order Confirmatory Factor Analysis
Authors: Didvar Farzaneh , Ghaffari Fatemeh , Shamsalinia Abbas
Published: August 2024

Background:

Even though nurses take various measures to decrease acute pain after surgery in older adults with dementia, it is unclear why most of them suffer from severe pain. This study aimed to evaluate the factors affecting acute pain management in older adults with dementia after hip fracture surgery.

Materials and Methods:

This cross-sectional study used single-stage cluster and convenience sampling to select 330 nurses working in hospitals located in Western Mazandaran, Iran, in 2020. The demographic characteristic questionnaire and the Obstacles to Postoperative Pain Management in Dementia Scale (OPOPMDS) were used to collect data.

Results:

The study results confirmed the modified model. The second-order Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) indicated that the Critical Ratio (CR) for all three factors was more than 1.96, and the significance level was considered 0.05. Based on the values of standard coefficients, older people-related (β = 0.86, p < 0.001), system-related (β = 0.70, p < 0.001), and healthcare provider-related (β = 0.61, p < 0.001) factors had the highest impacts on the OPOPMD.

Conclusions:

The study results suggested that older adult-related factors had the most significant impact on the OPOPMD.
The Needs of Women Survivors of Rape: A Narrative Review
Authors: Asadi Leila , Noroozi Mahnaz , Mardani Fardin , Salimi Hajar , Jambarsang Sara
Published: August 2024

Background:

Rape is a serious global problem linked to long-term physical health complications in women. Women survivors of rape have different needs, the identification of which ensures optimal services and improves their health conditions. This study aimed to explore the needs of women survivors of rape through a narrative review.

Materials and Methods:

This review was conducted by searching databases of ISI Web of Science, Scopus, Science Direct, Cochrane, PubMed, Scientific Information Database (SID), the Iranian Magazine Database (Magiran), Iranian Research Institute for Information Science and Technology (IranDoc), Iranian Medical Articles Database (IranMedex), and the Google Scholar engine. All English and Persian articles published from January 2000 to August 2022 were searched using the keywords rape, sexual assault, sexual violence, victim, survivor, demands, and needs. Two independent researchers conducted all steps of article extraction and review to avoid possible bias, and a third person reviewed the articles in the case of disagreement between the two researchers. The final related articles were selected and evaluated using a pre-prepared checklist.

Results:

Out of 112 articles, 26 articles were selected for final evaluation. The needs of women survivors of rape were divided into six categories, including sociocultural, educational, legal and judicial, psychological, spiritual and religious, and healthcare.

Conclusions:

Women survivors of rape need survivor-centered, culturally appropriate services, necessitating careful planning and policymaking to address health and judicial issues from different dimensions considering their real-world needs.
Developing and Validating a Questionnaire to Measure Attitude toward Child Adoption: A Psychometric Process
Authors: Ghazanfarpour Masumeh , Aminizadeh Shirin , Alidousti Katayoun , Dehghan Mahlegha , Ahmadi Atefeh
Published: August 2024

Background:

Despite the mutual benefit of adoption, due to the adverse attitude related to the barriers perceived by the couples, some people are not interested in adoption. The purpose of this study was to develop and validate a questionnaire to measure attitudes toward child adoption.

Materials and Methods:

This secondary analysis is part of a larger study on 178 infertile couples referring to the Afzalipour Infertility Center in Kerman, Iran. Factor Analysis (FA) was performed. The sampling was conducted using the convenience sampling method. The questionnaire was implemented using a mixed-method approach in three phases. Firstly, a pool was created. The second phase involved content validity. Lastly, construct validity was conducted.

Results:

The final version of the questionnaire with 20 questions had a total Cronbach's alpha of 0.70%. Six factors with eigenvalues of higher than 1.00 were extracted, which accounted for 52% of the total variance. These factors were “spiritual–psychological status of the new parents,” “psychological status of the adopted child,” “undesirable behaviors of others in the future,” “anxiety of the new parents,” “physical–behavioral characteristics of the adopted child,” and “socio-economic factors.” The model extracted from the Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was confirmed by Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA). The 6-factor structure adequately fitted the data (Comparative Fit Index (CFI) = 0.93; root mean square error of approximation [RMSEA] = 0.047; X2/df = 1.393; p = 0.002.

Conclusions:

The internal consistency and construct validity of the questionnaire were confirmed. This instrument can be used in clinical and research practices.
The Effect of the Reproductive Health Self-Care Educational Booklet on the Self-Care Ability of Female University Students
Authors: AbdiShahshahani Mahshid , Hashemi Maryam , Kohan Shahnaz
Published: August 2024

Background:

Reproductive health during youth is considered one of the pivotal aspects of sustainable development. In this regard, students are more exposed to reproductive health problems and risks. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to determine the effect of the reproductive health self-care educational booklet on the self-care ability of female university students.

Materials and Methods:

This study was a quasiexperimental research in which a reproductive health self-care educational booklet designed based on needs assessment was provided to 75 newly admitted female university students at Isfahan University of Medical Sciences in 2018-2019 who were selected by quota sampling method from all faculties. Using a researcher-made questionnaire on reproductive health self-care ability (knowledge, attitude, practice), data were collected before, immediately after, and 6 weeks after the intervention. Data analysis was performed using descriptive and analytical statistics in SPSS version 20.

Results:

As the results showed, the mean score of self-care ability (F = 208.46, p < 0.001), knowledge (F = 130.88, p < 0.001), attitude (F = 76.09, p < 0.001), and practice (F = 89.76, p < 0.001) of the subjects immediately and 6 weeks after the intervention was significantly higher than before the intervention. However, no significant difference was observed in these scores, between immediately after and 6 weeks after the intervention.

Conclusions:

The results indicated that the designed self-care educational booklet led to a relatively constant promotion of the reproductive health self-care ability of female students. Thus, this booklet seems to be useful in meeting the educational needs of female students in various aspects of reproductive health.
Can postanesthetic cold sensibility test be used as a tool for the efficacy of inferior alveolar nerve block in patients with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis of mandibular molars? – In vivo study
Authors: Kalantri Sarika Sunil , Shiraguppi Vijaykumar L , Deosarkar Bharat Anantrao
Published: August 2024

Objectives:

The goal of this investigation was to determine the efficiency of a postanesthetic cold test for the detection of pulpal anesthesia to improve diagnostic accuracy.

Materials and Methods:

Fifty-two participants who showed symptomatic irreversible pulpitis on the mandibular first molar, aged from 18 to 65 years, were given inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB), and subjective anesthetic symptoms were seen after 15 min and were finally assigned for studies. To determine the effectiveness of a postanesthetic cold test for the detection of pulpal anesthesia, the target tooth was separated and Endo-Frost was utilized to conduct a postanesthetic cold sensibility test and was compared to the gold standard test, painful or painless sensation during actual root canal therapy. Of 52 participants, 9 had a positive response to the postanesthetic cold test and 43 had a negative response; 10 responded positively to the gold standard test, whereas 42 gave negative results.

Results:

The postanesthetic cold sensibility test can diagnose the effectiveness of pulp anesthesia showing a sensitivity of 80%, specificity of 97.62%, positive likelihood ratio of 33.6, negative likelihood ratio of 0.2, positive predictive value of 88.89%, negative predictive value of 95.35%, accuracy of 94.23%, and Youden’s index of 0.78.

Conclusions:

The postanesthetic cold sensibility test can be used as a tool for the efficiency of IANB before starting root canal therapy to minimize pain and anxiety in patients.
To compare and evaluate the shear bond strength of sixth-, seventh-, and eighth-generation dentin bonding agents: An in vitro study
Authors: Gazal Shaista , Agrawal Shyam , Mathur Rachit , Sharma Deepak , Prajapati Hema , Kumar Prawal
Published: August 2024

Context:

Bonding agents have developed from a multistep bonding process to simplification, i.e. self-etch and single bottle system.

Aims:

The aim of this study is to compare and evaluate the shear bond strength (BS) of sixth-, seventh, and eighth-generation dentin bonding agents.

Settings and Design:

This was an in vitro study.

Materials and Methods:

Three sets of 75 permanent mandibular premolars that had been removed were chosen. A universal testing machine operating at a cross-head speed of 1 mm/min. examined the shear BS of the samples after they had been stored in deionized water for an entire day.

Statistical Analysis Used:

“One-way analysis of variance and Bonferroni test post hoc analysis” were used for statistically analyzing the data.

Results:

The sixth-generation group shear BS was noticeably stronger.

Conclusions:

The sixth-generation dentin bonding agent demonstrated the greatest mean shear BS to dentin because the solvent present had low concentration and low hydrophilicity, polymerization was more extensive, and dentin underlined underwent limited etching and demineralization over an extended period of time.
Volumetric change of calcium silicate-based repair materials in a simulated inflammatory environment: A micro-computed tomography study
Authors: Mendonça Giovanna da Cunha , Tavares Karina Ines Medina Carita , Santos-Junior Airton Oliveira , Torres Fernanda Ferrari Esteves , Pinto Jáder Camilo , Guerreiro-Tanomaru Juliane Maria , Tanomaru-Filho Mário
Published: August 2024

Context:

An acidic hydrogen potential (pH) in an inflammatory condition in the periapical tissues may affect the properties of repair bioceramic cement.

Aims:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of pH on the volumetric change of the ready-to-use bioceramic NeoPUTTY (NP) compared to the powder/liquid MTA Repair HP (MTAHP) after immersion in butyric acid (BA, pH 4.1) or phosphate-buffered saline (PBS, pH 7.35).

Subjects and Methods:

Dentin tubes filled with NP or MTAHP were scanned in micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) after 24 h. Then, the specimens were immersed in 1.5 mL of BA: NP/BA, MTAHP/BA or PBS: NP/PBS, MTAHP/PBS. After 7 days, new micro-CT scans were performed. The percentage of volumetric change (extremities and internal part) of the materials was assessed.

Statistical Analysis Used:

ANOVA/Tukey and Kruskal–Wallis tests were performed (α =0.05).

Results:

All materials showed a volumetric decrease after immersion in BA or PBS at the extremities in contact with the solutions. MTAHP/BA showed the highest volumetric loss. There was no difference in the volumetric change when the internal part of the materials was evaluated.

Conclusions:

An acid pH negatively affects the volumetric stability of MTAHP. Low values of volumetric change were demonstrated for NP in both immersion environments.
An in vitro assessment of the influence of dentinal pretreatment with chlorhexidine, nonthermal atmospheric plasma, chitosan, and proanthocyanidins on shear bond strength to composite
Authors: Kamal Shaik Afreen , Garlapati Roopadevi , Bolla Nagesh , Vemuri Sayesh , Banu Mayana Aameena , Suvarna Yandra Lakshmi
Published: August 2024

Context:

Dentin biomodification has been emphasized as a means of improving the bond between composite resin and tooth surface, consequently enhancing its longevity.

Aim:

To evaluate the shear bond strength (SBS) of dentin after pretreatment with 2% chlorhexidine (CHX), 2% chitosan, nonthermal atmospheric plasma (NTAP), proanthocyanidins (5% pine bark ((PB) and 5% bromelain).

Settings and Design:

The study was designed as an in vitro investigation.

Materials and Methods:

Sixty extracted mandibular molars (n = 60) were gathered for this in vitro research. The teeth were decoronated to expose the dentinal surface. All samples have been etched with 37% phosphoric acid and then pretreated with respective dentin biomodifiers. Group I (control): No pretreatment was done, Group II: 2% CHX, Group III: NTAP, Group IV: 5% PB, Group V: 2% chitosan, Group VI: 5% bromelain. Specimens were evaluated for the SBS test, which was done under the instron universal machine at a speed of 1 mm/min after a bonding agent and composite build-up were applied.

Results:

While Group I had the lowest SBS (10.391.59Mpa), Group V had the highest SBS (30.111.53 Mpa). Pretreatment of the dentin enhanced the SBS of dentin to composite.

Conclusion:

When utilized after etching, dentin biomodification increased all experimental group’s bond strength in contrast to the control. The highest SBS values were recorded with 2% chitosan, followed by NTAP.
Comparision of interleukin-1β concentrations in posttreatment endodontic disease and other pulpal and periapical conditions – A clinical study
Authors: Jain Shivangi , Sundar Sathish , Haritha J. S. , Natanasabapathy Velmurugan
Published: August 2024

Aim:

To evaluate interleukin (IL)-1β concentrations in periapical tissue fluid (PTF) in persistent apical periodontitis requiring endodontic retreatment and to compare the levels of IL-1β with chronic apical periodontitis, symptomatic irreversible pulpitis (SIP), normal pulpal, and periapical tissues.

Materials and Methods:

The patients were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria and divided into 4 groups based on the pulpal and periapical status: Posttreatment endodontic diseases (PTED): Teeth with PTED due to failed primary root canal treatment having periapical radiolucency. PNAP: Teeth requiring root canal treatment due to pulpal necrosis having periapical radiolucency. SIP: Teeth with symptoms of SIP with healthy periapical tissues). Intentional root canal treatment (IRCT): Teeth requiring IRCT (healthy pulp and periapical tissues). The access cavity was redefined and the preexisting filling was removed using H-files. The root canals were minimally enlarged followed by collection of PTF using paper points, in the case of group PTED. For groups PNAP, SIP, and IRCT, conventional access cavity preparation was done followed by enlargement of canals till 20, 0.02. PTF was collected using 15, 0.02 size absorbent points 2 mm beyond the apex. Levels of IL-1β was assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results:

A statistically significant difference was seen in levels of IL-1β in all the groups. The highest concentration was seen in group PTED (85.07 ± 11.57 pg/mL) followed by group PNAP (37.60 ± 10.94 pg/mL), group SIP (8.40 ± 1.99 pg/mL), and the least was seen in group IRCT (3.47 ± 1.36 pg/mL).

Conclusion:

The levels of IL-1β were highest in PETD cases followed by PNAP, SIP, and IRCT. This indicates the severity of inflammation in PETD cases as compared to other endodontic diseases.
Influence of needle gauge on pain perception and use of obturators in achieving profound pulpal anesthesia – A double-blinded in vivo study
Authors: Rairam Surabhi , Belam Ambika , Ratnakar P. , Patil Veerendra , Kulkarni Sangeeta , Patil Supriya
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

Achieving profound pupal anesthesia and pain management is key in endodontic practice. However, inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB) does not always result in successful pulpal anesthesia, during symptomatic irreversible pulpitis and has a high failure rate between 35% and 45%. Intrapulpal (IP) injection has been found to have increased efficiency and pain. The study aims to find the pain perception of 26G and 31G and the use of obturators in improving the efficacy of IP anesthesia.

Materials and Methods:

Eighty patients with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis after the failure of IANB were recruited and divided into four groups to receive IP with Group I A: 26G with obturators, Group I B: 26G without obturators, Group IIA: 31G with obturators, and Group IIB: 31G without obturators. The pain was measured using the visual analog scale and the effectivity of anesthetic injection by the duration of action.

Results:

A 31G needle produced the least pain perception compared to the 26G needle during IP injection. A 31G with an obturator was the most efficient, acting in less than a minute and 26G without an obturator showed the least.

Conclusion:

Within the limitation of this trial, it can be concluded that lesser gauge needles reduce pain perception during IP, and obturators achieve adequate back pressure.
A scanning electron microscope analysis on the effect of bleaching gel in combination with fluoro calcium phosphosilicate-based dentifrice on whitening of teeth and dentinal tubule occlusion – An in vitro study
Authors: Gowda R. Ananda , Ahmed Shadab , Yoganatha H. N. , Gowda M. C. Bharath , Joseph N. J. Meljo , Raju Roshin Maria
Published: August 2024

Aim:

The aim of this study is to investigate the use of 15% carbamide peroxide in combination with fluoro calcium phosphosilicate desensitizing dentifrice during bleaching to evaluate postoperative dentinal tubule occlusion.

Materials and Methods:

Premolars which were extracted and bleached using 15% carbamide peroxide with fluoro calcium phosphosilicate dentifrice were used in this investigation, and the shade change was assessed. They were subsequently divided into sections and examined with scanning electron microscope. The quantity of open tubules, fully obstructed as well as moderately obstructed tubules, was recorded for each specimen. The statistical analysis of shade changes was conducted using the paired t-test. The tubule numbers were statistically evaluated after being assigned a mean and standard deviation.

Results:

The mean values between test and control groups in completely blocked tubules are 81.370 ± 1.989 and 42.586 ± 11.316, respectively. In partially blocked tubules, the mean values were found to be 13.219 ± 1.747 and 32.264 ± 11.554, respectively. In open tubules, the mean values are 5.398 ± 1.260 and 25.149 ± 8.781. The mean values of shade comparison for test group and control group are 1.95 ± 2.78 and 3.40 ± 2.83, respectively.

Conclusions:

According to the findings of the study, dentinal tubules were blocked when fluoro calcium phosphosilicate dentifrice was administered with 15% carbamide peroxide, but the bleaching process was unaffected. The potential clinical advantage of using a single paste system for both bleaching and desensitizing was also emphasized.