bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
(Arc)hetypes: Collective Commemoration and Transformative Trajectories in
Un village français
Authors: CAMPBELL LISA HARPER
Published: August 2024

This article links the myths of France during the Second World War with Joseph Campbell’s concept of the monomyth by arguing that, during the Occupation, France played host to heroes and anti-heroes each “with a thousand faces”. It provides an insight into various tiers of society at the time; bureaucratic, clandestine and victimized. By analyzing archetypal characters (collaborator, resistant, victim), this work examines narrative trajectories against the themes of agency, responsibility and corruption. This television series’ engagement with personal transformations during a complex historical period offers an in-depth, nuanced exploration into French life during the Second World War.
Précarité et marginalisation en zone urbaine dans
Petit Piment
d’Alain Mabanckou
Authors: KEUBEUNG GERARD
Published: August 2024

This article argues that the urban space emerging from post-colonial Africa is made up of heterotopias, that is, other places or places of life by procuration. This article examines
Petit Piment
by Congolese novelist Alain Mabanckou, which recounts the experiences and marginalization of street children and prostitutes, referred to here as the pariahs of the postcolony, to argue that postcolonial urban space is discriminatory. As a result, the socially excluded search for what Michel Foucault calls “other spaces”.
The Gaze That Looks Back: Queering Hierarchies of Viewing in
Portrait de la jeune fille en feu
Authors: CAIN LOUISE
Published: August 2024

This essay examines the ways in which French director Céline Sciamma subverts the hierarchical trope of the artist and the muse through a queering of power dynamics in her 2019 historical-drama film
Portrait de la jeune fille en feu
. Drawing on the work of philosophers Maurice Merleau-Ponty and Byung-Chul Han to analyse the functions of “otherness” and “sameness” in dynamics of erotic desire and aesthetic pleasure in viewing, this essay posits that
Portrait
, through its purposefully ambiguous ending and radical reworking of the hierarchies of viewing, disrupts dominant assumptions of both gender and subjectivity to call instead for fluidity and potential in power dynamics between artists and muses, and viewer and screen.
Low-angular-momentum General Relativistic Magnetohydrodynamic Accretion Flows around Rotating Black Holes with Shocks
Authors: Mitra Samik , Das Santabrata
Published: August 2024

We investigate the global structure of the general relativistic magnetohydrodynamic (GRMHD) accretion flows around Kerr black holes containing shock waves, where the disk is threaded by radial and toroidal magnetic fields. We self-consistently solve the GRMHD equations that govern the flow motion inside the disk and for the first time, to our knowledge, we obtain the shock-induced global GRMHD accretion solutions around weakly as well as rapidly rotating black holes for a set of fundamental flow parameters, such as energy (

E

), angular momentum (

L

), radial magnetic flux (Φ), and isorotation parameter (F). We show that shock properties—namely, the shock radius (r
sh), compression ratio (R), and shock strength (Ψ)—strongly depend on

E

,

L

, Φ, and F. We observe that the shock in the GRMHD flow continues to exist for a wide range of the flow parameters, which allows us to identify the effective domain of the parameter space in the

L
–
E

plane where shock solutions are feasible. Moreover, we examine the modification of the shock parameter space and find that it shifts towards the lower-angular-momentum values with increasing Φ and black hole spin (a
k). Finally, we compute the critical radial magnetic flux (Φcri) that admits shocks in GRMHD flows and ascertain that Φcri is higher (lower) for a black hole of spin a
k = 0.99 (0.0) and vice versa.
Rotation and Abundances of the Benchmark Brown Dwarf HD 33632 Ab from Keck/KPIC High-resolution Spectroscopy
Authors: Hsu Chih-Chun , Wang 王 Jason J. 劲飞 , Xuan Jerry W. , Ruffio Jean-Baptiste , Morris Evan , Echeverri Daniel , Xin Yinzi , Liberman Joshua , Finnerty Luke , Horstman Katelyn , Sappey Ben , Doppmann Gregory W. , Mawet Dimitri , Jovanovic Nemanja , Fitzgerald Michael P. , Delorme Jacques-Robert , Wallace J. Kent , Baker Ashley , Bartos Randall , Blake Geoffrey A. , Calvin Benjamin , Cetre Sylvain , López Ronald A. , Pezzato Jacklyn , Schofield Tobias , Skemer Andrew , Wang Ji
Published: August 2024

We present the projected rotational velocity and molecular abundances for HD 33632 Ab obtained via Keck Planet Imager and Characterizer (KPIC) high-resolution spectroscopy. HD 33632 Ab is a nearby benchmark brown dwarf companion at a separation of ∼20 au that straddles the L–T transition. Using a forward-modeling framework with on-axis host star spectra, which provides self-consistent substellar atmospheric and retrieval models for HD 33632 Ab, we derive a projected rotational velocity of 53 ± 3 km s−1 and carbon monoxide and water mass fractions of logCO = −2.3 ± 0.3 and logH2O = −2.7 ± 0.2, respectively. The inferred carbon-to-oxygen ratio (C/O = 0.58 ± 0.14), molecular abundances, and metallicity ([C/H] = 0.0 ± 0.2 dex) of HD 33632 Ab are consistent with its host star. Although detectable methane opacities are expected in L–T transition objects, we did not recover methane in our KPIC spectra, partly due to the high v sin i and to disequilibrium chemistry at the pressures to which we are sensitive. We parameterize the spin as the ratio of rotation to the breakup velocity, and compare HD 33632 Ab to a compilation of >200 very low-mass objects (M ≲ 0.1 M
⊙) that have spin measurements in the literature. There appears to be no clear trend for the isolated low-mass field objects versus mass, but a tentative trend is identified for low-mass companions and directly imaged exoplanets, similar to previous findings. A larger sample of close-in gas giant exoplanets and brown dwarfs will critically examine our understanding of their formation and evolution through rotation and chemical abundance measurements.
Insights from the Gaussian Process Method for the Fast Radio Burst–associated X-Ray Burst of SGR 1935+2154
Authors: Tang Ruijing , Yan Dahai , Zhang Haiyun , Zhao Qingchang , Tao Lian , Li Chengkui , Ge Mingyu , Li Xiaobo , Yin Qianqing , Cai Ce
Published: August 2024

The Gaussian process method is employed to analyze the light curves of bursts detected by Insight-HXMT, Neutron Star Interior Composition Explorer (NICER), and Gravitational Wave High-energy Electromagnetic Counterpart All-sky Monitor from SGR 1935+2154 between 2020 and 2022. It is found that a stochastically driven damped simple harmonic oscillator (SHO) is necessary to capture the characteristics of the X-ray bursts (XRBs). A variability timescale of the XRBs, corresponding to the broken frequencies in the SHO power spectral densities (PSDs), is extracted. In particular, a high broken frequency of 35 Hz where the index of the SHO PSD changes from −4 to −2 is constrained by the HXMT-HE burst associated with fast radio burst (FRB) 200428. It is suggested that the corresponding timescale of 0.03 s could be the retarding timescale of the system driven by some energy release, and the production of the HE photon should be quasi-simultaneous with the response. The other special event is a NICER burst with a retarding timescale of 1/(39 Hz) ≈ 0.02 s. In the normal XRBs, no retarding timescale is constrained; a long relax/equilibrium timescale (corresponding to a broken frequency of 1–10 Hz, where the index of the SHO PSD changes from −4/−2 to 0 in the SHO PSD) is obtained. The results indicate that the FRB-associated HXMT-HE XRB could be produced immediately when the system is responding to the energy disturbance, far before the equilibrium state.
Case study of non-lethal sampling for plant-pollinator networks via barcoding and metabarcoding on bumble bees in Germany
Authors: Edwards Alexander , Gemeinholzer Birgit
Published: August 2024

1) Insect decline is threatening ecosystem stability, making information about foraging preferences of pollinators a vital information to acquire. A powerful emerging tool to study pollinator foraging behavior is pollen-metabarcoding. This usually involves lethal sampling of insects. 2) Here, we propose a new, non-lethal way of sampling DNA for the analysis of pollen loads of bumble bees as well as the pollinator. The new methodology does not significantly harm the insect and is easy to implement in a wide range of study designs. The tool is cheap and easy to acquire, can easily be used in the field, and has the potential to become a powerful tool in studying plant-pollinator interactions. 3) To test its feasibility, plant-pollinator networks were analyzed using metabarcoding of the ITS2 region. Plants flowering at the time of collection were also recorded as a reference comparison. 4) Bumble bees with ambiguous morphology were additionally identified based on COI barcoding. 5) With the workflow developed here it is possible to gain knowledge about plants and their pollinators in a non-lethal way without reducing population sizes. This makes this method particularly suitable for endangered and protected species.
One new species of Pseudopoda Jäger, 2000 from Shennongjia, Central China (Araneae, Sparassidae)
Authors: Wen Lelei , Li Changchun , Zhong Yang
Published: August 2024

Pseudopoda Jäger, 2000 is currently the largest genus in the family Sparassidae Bertkau, 1872, comprising 255 species. Of these, 154 species have been recorded in China, representing 60.4% of the global species.

In October 2023, a spider survey was conducted in Shennongjia National Nature Reserve, Hubei Province, China. After examination and morphological comparison, one new species of the genus Pseudopoda was identified and is described here.

In this paper, a new species of Pseudopoda collected in Hubei Province, China, is proposed and named Pseudopoda guanmenshan sp. nov. A detailed description, diagnosis, photographs and distribution map of the new species are provided.
Exploring the efficacy of predacious diving beetles as potential nature-based solution for combatting the invasive mosquito Aedes albopictus (Skuse, 1894)
Authors: Vanslembrouck Adwine , Scheers Kevin , Vermeersch Xavier , Hendrickx Rens , Schneider Anna , De Witte Jacobus , Deblauwe Isra , Van Bortel Wim , Reuss Friederike , Müller Ruth
Published: August 2024

The invasive mosquito species Aedes albopictus (Skuse, 1894) is rapidly spreading in Europe, posing an increasing threat because of its high vector competence for chikungunya and dengue virus. An integrative and eco-friendly control of these populations is required to prevent mosquito-borne disease outbreaks. Traditionally-used insecticides or other chemical control agents are often expensive, harmful to the environment, strictly controlled or completely banned in several countries. Additionally, insecticide resistance is a potential threat. One possibility for biological control agents is the use of native aquatic beetles as natural predators of mosquitoes to boost Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) interventions. Thirty predatory aquatic beetle taxa were caught in Belgium and kept at the Institute of Tropical Medicine’s insectary to test predation rate and prey choice on Aedes albopictus and Culex pipiens Linnaeus, 1758. Predation rates suggest at least four efficient dytiscid predators that are known to inhabit small, temporary habitats in Europe. Further experiments on prey choice reveal a clear preference for Aedes albopictus over alternative larval prey (Culex pipiens, Daphnia sp., Chaoboridae). We found a strong ecological overlap of the feeding niche of A. albopictus and the hunting zone of dytiscid predators in the benthic layer of small waterbodies. Our findings on the efficacy are very encouraging to further assess the potential of native predacious diving beetles as a biological control agent against the invasive A. albopictus in Europe.
Advances in mathematical analysis for solving inhomogeneous scalar differential equation
Authors: Albidah Abdulrahman B. , Alsulami Ibraheem M. , El-Zahar Essam R. , Ebaid Abdelhalim
Published: August 2024

This paper considered a functional model which splits to two types of equations, mainly, advance equation and delay equation. The advance equation was solved using an analytical approach. Different types of solutions were obtained for the advance equation under specific conditions of the model's parameters. These solutions included the polynomial solutions of first and second degrees, the periodic solution and the hyperbolic solution. The periodic solution was invested to establish the analytical solution of the delay equation. The characteristics of the solution of the present model were discussed in detail. The results showed that the solution was continuous in the domain of the problem, under a restriction on the given initial condition, while the first derivative was discontinuous at a certain point and lied within the domain of the delay equation. In addition, some existing results in the literature were recovered as special cases of the current ones. The present successful analysis can be further generalized to include complex functional equations with an arbitrary function as an inhomogeneous term.
CoLipid: A Mobile Application for Lipid Monitoring
Authors: Abdullah Nur Atiqah Sia , Mohd Rosli Marshima , Abd Aziz Nur Diyana , Mohd Kasim Noor Alicezah
Published: August 2024

The recent healthcare transformations emphasize the importance of individuals maintaining a healthy lifestyle through proper nutrition and physical activity to reduce the risk of severe illnesses. Patients often search for information on their own, leading to uncertainty about appropriate diets or fitness activities. Consequently, many individuals cross-check information or health advice from various sources. However, some people hesitate to verify online health-related information with their clinicians, fearing that it may be perceived as a challenge to their expertise and authority. This study aimed to determine a useful way to monitor a patient’s lipid profile and provide recommendations for meal plans and fitness activities. A content-based approach that utilizes a vector space model is employed in the development of a recommender method. The vector space model uses meal plan keywords to suggest similar items, and selection rules are applied to identify relevant meal plan and fitness activity options. This approach has been integrated into a mobile application for healthcare, enabling patients to receive personalized recommendations based on their lipid levels. To assess the usability of the mobile application, an initial user study was conducted, which revealed that most respondents had a positive opinion of the application. In the future, the application could be enhanced with a wider variety of meal plans and additional features.
Factors That Influence Teachers’ Willingness to Adopt Mobile Technologies: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Balanyà Rebollo Judith , De Oliveira Janaina Minelli
Published: August 2024

In today’s digital age, the integration of digital technologies into the educational process has become a priority. The objective of this study is to analyze the conditions under which technology can support teachers in the design, implementation, and evaluation of teachinglearning (E/A) processes. This study specifically sought to answer the research question: “Can a self-evaluation tool help teachers’ guide and design mobile learning activities?” by emphasizing the criterion of effectiveness. Through a qualitative analysis within the framework of the educational design research (EDR) methodology, a series of focus groups were carried out and classified by teachers’ levels of experience, from beginners to experts. These groups provided detailed insights on the perception and use of mobile devices in education, specifically on the use of a self-assessment tool that supports teachers in designing activities with mobile devices. The results indicated a generally positive perception of mobile technologies in education, although variations in adoption and perception were observed depending on the teacher’s level of experience. The mobile self-assessment tool was also commended. The findings support literature on mobile learning and teacher support tools, emphasizing the importance of teaching training and the transformative potential of mobile devices in modern pedagogy.
Mobile Marketing Training towards Increasing Business: A Case Study of Agri-Food Micro-Enterprises
Authors: Zakirah Othman  , Nur Badriyah Kamarul Zaman  , Noor Hidayah Abu  , Syahida Abdullah  , Emmy Farha Alias  , Siti Jahroh
Published: August 2024

Mobile marketing (MM) refers to marketing through mobile platforms and has become a phenomenon in the business world. Many sectors utilize online applications for various business activities, including promotion and marketing. However, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), especially those in the agricultural sector, face numerous challenges in using and determining training that is appropriate to their level of ability. Therefore, the objective of this study is to discuss the use of digital marketing training management (DMTM) by agri-food micro-enterprises in Peninsular Malaysia. A total of seventeen participants took part in this case study, and data were collected through surveys and semi-structured interviews between March 2022 and December 2022. The results led to the development of a DMTM model for agri-food micro-enterprises.
Early Muslim Scholars’ Conceptions of Character Development and Contemporary Applications in Mental Health and Well-being
Authors: Rothman Abdallah , Betül Yücesoy Zeynep , Yalçın Esra
Published: August 2024

Well-being, as a comprehensive phenomenon related to an individual’s emotional response and life satisfaction, has a vital importance for human beings today. Contemporary perspectives, such as the domain of positive psychology, have shifted from a pathology-oriented perception of well-being and have made efforts to include psychological and spiritual aspects in the picture. The aim of these modern approaches is to activate mechanisms of change and build positive qualities within a person. Similarly, the Islamic tradition has long emphasized the importance of physical, psychological, emotional, and spiritual well-being, with the spiritual dimension at the center of the purpose of personal development. Both modern psychological and Islamic theological perspectives consider character development as essential for increasing well-being. While modern psychology uses character development only as a tool to achieve self-actualization, an Islamic perspective includes, within the concept of self-actualization, the notions and objectives of purification from the evils of the world and the self and attaining the pleasure of God. Islamic scholars in the classical period emphasized the importance of keeping a balance between good and bad character traits within the conception of human well-being. This chapter will discuss the mechanisms and approaches to character development suggested by early Muslim scholars, such as Abu Zayd al-Balkhi (9th century), Abu Hamid al-Ghazali (112th1th century), Al-Razi (13th9th century), and Birgivi (16th16th century), as well as discuss possible contemporary applications in the light of modern psychological studies. It will put forth strategies for Islamically informed character development and their potential for implementation within Islamically-integrated psychotherapy and well-being counseling within contemporary contexts.
Psychospiritual Conceptualization of Nafs from the Perspectives of Muhammad Iqbal
Authors: Khan Fahad , Nisa Asma
Published: August 2024

Muhammad Iqbal (d. 1938) was an intellectual who aimed to revive the status of the human self within the context of post-enlightenment shifts in society. He posited a model of the human self, known as Khudi, which, through continuous efforts and action, has the capacity to obtain the status of divine vicegerency. This process, requiring self-discipline and awareness, focuses on overcoming the demands of the lower self, or the nafs. Iqbal presents a conceptualization of the nafs, similar to his predecessors in the Islamic tradition, with the goal of taming it, overcoming its natural demands, and perfecting it to serve as a vehicle towards the ultimate goal of divine vicegerency. This paper builds on a previously published paper by Khan and Malik (2021) that presented Iqbal’s model of self-development by further expounding on the conceptualization of the nafs.
ESTUDO COMPARATIVO DAS FORÇAS AXIAIS RESISTENTES DE CÁLCULO À COMPRESSÃO DE PILARES MISTOS TOTALMENTE REVESTIDOS OBTIDAS PELO MÉTODO DOS ESTADOS LIMITES DE ACORDO COM A ABNT NBR 8800:2008 E AISC:360-22
Authors: Da Silva Souza Roberto , Dos Santos Fernandes Walliston , Teixeira de Souza Flávio
Published: August 2024

O presente trabalho teve por objetivo efetuar a comparação entre os valores de força axial resistente de cálculo à compressão, de pilares misto totalmente revestidos, obtidas por meio do uso das metodologias de cálculo da ABNT NBR 8800:2008 e da AISC: 360-22. Os pilares mistos foram, inicialmente, utilizados de forma despretensiosa para as situações de fogo na década de 40, no entanto na década de 60 surgiram os primeiros estudos para o uso deste tipo de estrutura para edifícios altos. Neste sentido, por não ser tradicional, no Brasil, edifícios altos, o estudo calculou o valor de força axial resistente de cálculo à compressão de pilar misto totalmente revestido e do perfil metálico central do pilar misto, e comparou os resultados. Foi utilizado para o estudo um exemplo de pilar misto totalmente revestido e a este foi aplicado as duas diferentes normas, após os resultados foram comparados. Embora ambas as normas utilizam o estados-limites para o cálculo, os resultados obtidos pela ABNT NBR 8800:2008 apresentaram valores superiores aos obtidos pela AISC:360-22. Deste modo, a norma americana se apresentou para o cálculo da força axial resistente valores mais conservadores.
CALIBRAÇÃO DOS PARÂMETROS DE PLASTICIDADE DANIFICADA DO CONCRETO PARA LAJES LISAS NO ABAQUS
Authors: D´Almeida Rodrigues Ramos Vinícius , Liberati Elyson Andrew Pozo , Trautwein Leandro Mouta
Published: August 2024

Nesse trabalho foram realizadas análises não lineares em elementos finitos para investigar o comportamento de lajes lisas submetidas à punção. As análises foram conduzidas por meio da calibração dos parâmetros de plasticidade do modelo Concrete Damaged Plasticity (CDP), presente no software ABAQUS, e então comparadas aos resultados experimentais ligações laje-pilar com aberturas circulares adjacentes ao pilar interno. A calibração indicou a dependência dos modelos quanto à alguns parâmetros, e ainda, que os modelos propostos podem prever adequadamente a capacidade resistente à punção das lajes.
INVESTIGAÇÃO DE COLUNAS TIPO DOUBLE-SKIN PREENCHIDAS COM CONCRETO
Authors: Lins Gonçalves Pereira Fernanda , Gonçalves Ivanna Trugilho , Rodrigues Monique Cordeiro , Ribeiro Danielle Malvaris , Lima Luciano Rodrigues Ornelas de
Published: August 2024

Este trabalho investiga o desempenho das colunas CFDST sob a ótica da formulação proposta por Castanheira (2021). Essas colunas, compostas por dois tubos de aço (inoxidável e carbono) concêntricos preenchidos com concreto, representam uma solução eficiente, combinando a resistência do aço com as propriedades do concreto. O estudo se concentra na metodologia desenvolvida por Castanheira (2021), aplicando-a aos estudos de Rodrigues (2018) e Ribeiro (2023). Para dimensionar as colunas, é necessário considerar parâmetros como espessura dos tubos, diâmetros externo e interno, resistência do concreto e dos tubos de aço. Após uma avaliação crítica da formulação proposta por Castanheira (2021) em relação aos resultados experimentais e numéricos, destaca-se que os resultados dos autores estão muito próximos dos valores da equação proposta, entretanto 1 em cada 5 respostas mostraram-se não seguras. Indica-se a necessidade da definição de regiões que precisam de mais estudos, como a realização de ensaios experimentais e em elementos finitos para uma discussão mais profunda do comportamento das colunas CFDST e das formulações existentes na literatura.
Sardinian fermented sausage traditional production process: a preliminary survey in eight establishments
Authors: Siddi Giuliana , Piras Francesca , Meloni Maria Pina , Spanu Vincenzo , Carta Nadia , Cuccu Mario , Spanu Carlo , Di Salvo Riccardo , Piga Carlo , De Santis Enrico Pietro Luigi , Scarano Christian
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to conduct a preliminary investigation in eight Sardinian fermented sausage (SFS) production plants to acquire knowledge about the differences in the applied technological process and their influence on the safety and sensory characteristics of the finished product. Two audits were conducted in each plant to evaluate structural characteristics and process technologies; 72 samples of SFS at the end of seasoning and 48 environmental samples were analyzed. Listeria monocytogenes, Listeria spp., Salmonella spp., and Yersinia enterocolitica were investigated, and chemical-physical analyses were also performed. A panel of consumers was subjected to the Check All That Apply test and acceptability test to determine the qualities perceived by consumers and assess the product acceptance rating. A water activity value of >0.941, permissive for the growth of L. monocytogenes, was detected in SFS produced by one producing plant; L. monocytogenes, Salmonella spp., and Y. enterocolitica were detected in 2.8% of SFS samples, and Listeria spp. in 20.8% of samples. Environmental samples tested positive for 45.8% of Listeria spp. and 16.7% of L. monocytogenes. Correct drying and ripening steps, applied for at least 20 days, are critical for the development of hurdles required to guarantee the safety of fermented sausages. The application of proper hygiene and cleaning procedures is required to reduce environmental contamination. Sensory analysis results show how the production processes applied determine the marketing of sensorially different products. The ideal profile suggested by consumers confirms that the attributes that allow for improved liking are “moderate spicing”, “moderate spiciness”, “seasoned product”, and “artisanal character”.
Serum ceramide levels in systemic lupus erythematosus patients: A novel biomarker for renal impairment
Authors: Khairallah Marwa K. , Hammam Nadia H. , Tawfik Nabawiea M. , Dahpy Marwa A.
Published: August 2024

Background

In between 30 and 80% of SLE patients, lupus nephritis (LN) develops. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the accuracy of serum ceramide (Cer.) in predicting LN in patients with SLE.

Patients and methods

Forty five patients with SLE with or without renal impairment were diagnosed as SLE according to SLICC classification criteria 2012, besides 20 healthy control subjects. Patients were divided into two groups: group (1); 20 SLE without renal impairment, and group (2); 25 patients confirmed to have LN by renal biopsy before starting treatment and follow-up after 3 cycles of treatment. Those Patients received IV methylprednisolone for 3 days and IV 0.5 gram of cyclophosphamide monthly, for 3 consecutive months. Baseline laboratory data and total serum Cer. levels were assessed by ELISA kit at base line to all studied groups and after 3 consecutive months for SLE patients with LN.

Results

Total Serum Cer. was significantly higher among patients with LN in comparison to SLE without LN group (60.11 ± 14.14 vs. 40.47 ± 12.34 (ng/ml); P=0.04) and control group (60.11 ± 14.14 vs. 31.14 ± 5.98 (ng/ml); P<0.001). SLE without LN patients group had significantly higher Cer. in comparison to controls (40.47 ± 12.34 vs. 31.14 ± 5.98 (ng/ml); P=0.03). Interestingly we found a significant reduction in serum Cer. levels with the follow-up after three cycles of therapy.

Conclusion

Serum Cer. is a novel promising biomarker for early detection of LN in patients with SLE. Future studies are warranted to confirm these findings.
Impact of Lactate on Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation in Patients with Severe Trauma
Authors: Nan Chao , Liu Fujing , Gu Tijun , Zhang He , Wang Jinhai , Meng Lijun
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

The association between elevated lactate levels and the development of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) in patients with severe trauma remains unclear. Hence, this study aimed to explore the association between lactate and the development of DIC in patients with severe trauma.

Methods:

This prospective cohort study was conducted on consecutive patients with severe trauma who were hospitalized in the intensive care unit from January 2020 to January 2023. The primary outcome measured was the occurrence of DIC in patients in the emergency department or posthospitalization. Logistic regression analysis evaluating the risk values for lactate and DIC, the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA) examinations studying the predictive efficiency of lactate for DIC. The Kaplan–Meier survival curve was used to assess patient survival. Sensitivity robustness analysis included modified Poisson regression, E-value, subgroup analysis, and numerical variable transformation analysis.

Results:

Logistic regression analysis corrected for confounding factors showed that lactate was a risk factor for DIC in patients with severe trauma (adjusted odds ratio [OR]: 1.374, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.206–1.566). Lactate predicted DIC risk with a 0.8513 area under the ROC curve (95% CI: 0.7827–0.9199), 4.8 cutoff value, 0.8333 sensitivity, and 0.8014 specificity. DCA showed the correlation between lactate and DIC. The mortality rate of patients with a high risk of DIC was significantly higher than that of patients with a low risk (log-rank test, P < 0.001). The modified Poisson regression showed that lactate was a risk factor for DIC (risk ratio: 1.188, 95% CI: 1.140–1.237). E-value was 1.645, and the lower limit of 95% CI was 1.495. The logistic regression analysis after subgroup analysis and transformation of numerical variables showed that lactate remained a risk factor for DIC.

Conclusions:

Elevated lactate is closely associated with the occurrence of DIC in patients with severe trauma. Lactate seems to be a good predictive factor for DIC manifestation in patients with severe trauma.
Prehospital Care for Road Traffic Injury Victims
Authors: Mathew Alphonsa , Varghese Salish , Chathappan Rajeev Punchalil , Palatty Babu Urumese , Vijay Chanchal A.B , Abraham Siju V.
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

Prehospital capabilities are inadequately developed to meet the growing needs for emergency care in most low- and middle-income countries. This study aims to describe the prehospital care received by the road traffic injury (RTI) victims presenting to a level I Trauma Care Center in Central Kerala, India.

Methods:

This was a hospital-based prospective observational study, which included consecutive victims of RTI attending the emergency department within 24-h of the event. A structured interview schedule was developed for collecting the data on various domains and the patients were followed up for their duration of hospital stay.

Results:

A total of 920 RTI victims, were included in this study. Two percent (17/920) of first responders had some sort of training in trauma care whereas the rest were untrained. The time taken to get any help at the scene after an RTI was 8 ± 12.9 min (95% confidence interval [CI] 7.16–8.84) and for first medical contact 25 ± 16 min (95% CI 24–26). No attempt at field stabilization occurred in any case. Three percent (26/920) had received some form of prehospital care, like arrest of hemorrhage using a compression bandage and splinting of the fractured limb with a wooden plank. None of the patients received supplemental oxygen, airway management, or cervical spine immobilization at the site of the accident or en route to the hospital.

Conclusion:

A lack of an organized prehospital care system results in minimal care before hospital admission. Urgent establishment of ambulance services and structured prehospital care tailored to our health-care system is imperative.
Illuminating Medical Education Through Moral Case Deliberations: A Narrative Review
Authors: Shrivastava Saurabh RamBihariLal , Gajbe Ujwal , Singh Brij Raj , Shrivastava Prateek Saurabh , Bankar Nandkishor J , Chandankhede Manju
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT

In the field of medical education, moral case deliberations refer to a structured process, wherein health professionals together discuss and analyze moral issues or ethical dilemmas encountered in their clinical practice. The purpose of the current review is to explore the merits of moral case deliberations, identify the components, enumerate the strategies that can be used for implementation, and enlist the potential challenges and the remedial measures to overcome them. Moral case deliberations can be implemented in medical education in several ways that can be seamlessly integrated into the existing medical curriculum without stretching the overall duration of the training period. The path to successfully implement moral case deliberations in a medical school has its own share of challenges, and we must be aware of them to adopt countermeasures to overcome them. In conclusion, moral case deliberations play a vital role in augmenting ethical competence and establishing a culture of reflective practice among medical students. As medical students are bound to encounter multiple ethical dilemmas in their future clinical practice, it is our responsibility to incrementally expose them to such cases as a part of their undergraduate training to eventually prepare them for effective healthcare delivery.
Assessing the Diagnostic Accuracy of Salivary Biomarkers in Detecting Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Bansal Priyanka Vinod , Mohanty Liza , Raval Chinmay , Gowdar Inderjit M. , Chopra Anshul , Gupta Bharti , Makkad Ramanpal S.
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

Attempts should be made to identify the molecule-based biomarkers, which give indication about the progression of precancer and malignancy of the oral area.

Aim:

To evaluate the reliability of methylation of genes of saliva like P16, MGMT, and DAP-K as biomarkers for diagnosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma.

Methods and Materials:

This study included 30 cases of histopathologically proven cases of oral squamous cell carcinoma. This study was conducted to detect demethylation of genes P16, MGMT, and DAP-K in saliva in these patients. Approximately, 1 mL of saliva was collected from each individual. Bisulfite sequencing PCR (BSP) was done with bisulfite conversion-specific primers produced by MethPrimer. The BSP compounds will be quantified on a one percent agarose gel. A fraction of the products obtained in BSP were then analyzed with the help of qMSP.

Results:

The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of methylation of genes P16, MGMT, and DAP-K as biomarkers of oral carcinoma were statistically significant. In our research, there were some very important useful findings regarding the possibility of the use of deoxyribonucleic acid methylation as a potential biomarker for the progression of premalignancy and malignancy of oral cavity, which need to be further followed up.

Conclusion:

Salivary biomarkers like P16, MGMT, and DAP-K can be used in the diagnosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma.
CBCT Assessment of Effectiveness of ProTaper Next and WaveOne file Systems on Remaining Dentin Thickness
Authors: Nijalingappa Vathsala , Banday Umreena Zahoor , Syed Ismail Prabu Mahin , Mohapatra Abinash , Lavania Gaurangi , Chougule Prajakta Ganesh
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Obturation of the canal space, efficient disinfection, and thorough canal debridement are essential components of endodontic therapy success. A crucial first step is biomechanical preparation.

Objectives:

This study set out to assess various file systems’ cleaning efficacy in terms of the thickness of dentin that remained after cleaning.

Materials and Method:

Twenty permanently removed anterior teeth were used in the investigation, and they were split into two groups: Group B used reciprocating WaveOne file systems, and Group A used ProTaper Next (PTN). After obtaining a pre-CBCT scan, the corresponding file groups proceeded with biomechanical preparation. A post-CBCT scan was obtained, and the dentin thickness remaining was compared between the pre- and post-CBCT scans. Statistics were used to analyze the data.

Result:

Dentin thickness decrease was shown to be minimal for ProTaper Next (PTN) and maximal for WaveOne; nonetheless, the intergroup comparison was deemed to be highly inconsequential.

Conclusion:

After biomechanical preparation, WaveOne is a highly recommended rotary endodontic device that does not significantly reduce the residual dentin thickness.
Long-Term Follow-Up of Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease: Renal Function Decline and Associated Risk Factors
Authors: Issac Anu S. , Singh Sanjay , Imran Rangraze , Shashank Chapala , Kashif Hala , Sheikh Zeeshan , Dutta Priyanjali
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT

Evaluating the chronic course of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and identifying associated risk factors is essential for effective management. This study aims to identify risk factors and monitor the decline in renal function through prolonged follow-up of CKD patients. This retrospective cohort study included 410 CKD patients diagnosed between 2015 and 2022. Data collected included demographics, comorbidities, and repeated measurements of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and proteinuria. Statistical analyses examined the association between GFR decline and risk factors such as age, diabetes, hypertension, and proteinuria during the follow-up period. The cohort showed a progressive decline in GFR over time. Significant associations were found between GFR decline and age, diabetes, hypertension, and higher proteinuria levels (P < 0.001). Age was associated with a 0.32 ml/min decline in GFR per 1.73 m², while the coefficients for hypertension and diabetes were -2.98 and -4.21, respectively. A strong correlation was found between proteinuria and GFR decline (β = -6.78, P < 0.001). Early identification and management of risk factors are crucial for slowing CKD progression. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to preserve renal function and improve patient outcomes.
Retrospective Analysis of the Effectiveness of Laser Therapy in the Treatment of Acne Scarring
Authors: Maiti Niladri , Benedicenti Stefano , Shashank Chapala , Venkateshwar Gokul , Srivastava Amartya P. , Tate Jignesh , Tiwari Rahul
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT

Objective:

This retrospective analysis aimed to estimate the efficiency of laser therapy in the management of acne scarring, assessing changes in scar severity, patient satisfaction, and adverse events.

Methods:

A cohort of 150 subjects with clinically diagnosed acne scarring who underwent laser therapy. Data were extracted from electronic medical records, and baseline characteristics, scar types, and management parameters were analyzed. Outcome measures included changes in scar severity scores, patient-reported satisfaction, and documentation of adverse events. Statistical analyses were conducted using appropriate methods, with sub-group analyses based on scar type and laser modality.

Results:

Following laser therapy, a statistically significant decrease in scar severity scores was seen across all scar types (P < 0.05). Patient satisfaction was high, with 75% reporting significant improvement. Adverse events were mild and transient, including erythema and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Sub-group analyses did not reveal significant differences in management outcomes based on scar type or laser modality.

Conclusion:

Laser therapy demonstrates effectiveness in reducing acne scarring with a favorable safety profile. The research supports its role as a versatile management modality for diverse scar presentations, emphasizing the need for further research to optimize protocols and explore combination therapies.
Prevalence and Management of Early Childhood Caries in Preschoolers
Authors: Ganesh Rajendran , Mohapatra Abinash , Kalpakuri Rajivi , Khan Mohammed Muzammil , Jain Teerthesh , Dubey Alok , Ravula Sandeep Reddy
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

“Early childhood caries (ECC)” is a prevalent and serious oral health issue affecting preschool-aged children globally, with adverse effects on their overall health and well-being.

Objective:

This center-based research designed to investigate the prevalence and management of ECC among preschoolers within a specific setting and evaluate associated factors.

Methods:

A cross-sectional research design was employed, involving 300 preschoolers aged 3 to 5 years. Clinical examinations were conducted, and data on demographic characteristics, oral hygiene practices, dietary habits, and dental visits were collected through structured interviews. Statistical analysis was performed to assess ECC prevalence and examine associations between demographic/behavioral factors and ECC severity.

Results:

The prevalence of ECC among preschoolers was 65%, with a mean dmfs score of 4.2. Factors such as age, gender, socioeconomic status, and oral hygiene practices were associated with ECC severity. Management strategies included topical fluoride application, oral health education, and restorative treatments.

Conclusion:

ECC remains a significant public health concern among preschoolers. Comprehensive oral health programs targeting this population are essential to mitigate ECC burden and improve oral health outcomes. Further research is needed to address systemic barriers and disparities in ECC prevention and management.
Long-term Outcomes of Traditional Braces versus Invisalign in Orthodontic Treatment
Authors: Reddy Seelam Prudhvi Das , Chekka Manjunath , Shah Ruchi , Kauser Afreen , Pisarla Manish , Datla Praveen Kumar Varma , Mahajan Akriti
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT

Objective:

This research targets to compare the longstanding outcomes of traditional braces versus Invisalign in orthodontic treatment, focusing on dental alignment, occlusal stability, patient satisfaction, and treatment duration.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort research with 200 subjects was piloted. One hundred subjects received traditional braces, while the other 100 received Invisalign. Dental models, cephalometric radiographs, and intraoral photographs were obtained at baseline, post-treatment, and at 1, 2, and 5 years follow-up. Patient satisfaction surveys were administered at each follow-up visit.

Results:

Both traditional braces and Invisalign effectively improved dental alignment and occlusal stability over the 5-year follow-up period. Patient satisfaction scores were consistently higher in the Invisalign group compared to the traditional braces group. However, there were no significant differences in treatment duration between the two groups.

Conclusion:

Invisalign may offer comparable or superior longstanding outcomes compared to traditional braces in orthodontic treatment, with higher patient satisfaction levels. These findings support the use of Invisalign as a viable alternative to traditional braces, particularly for subjects seeking esthetic and convenient orthodontic solutions.
Comparative Analysis of Braces and Aligners: Long-Term Orthodontic Outcomes
Authors: Aref Sayyad , Ravuri Preetham , Kubavat Ajay K. , Sowmya Cherukupalli , Nallamilli Leela Venkata Soujanya , Bhanawat Nilesh , Tiwari Rahul
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT

Objectives:

The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate the long-term results of orthodontic treatment with traditional braces and Invisalign, with a particular emphasis on treatment length, patient satisfaction, correction of malocclusion, and long-term stability.

Methods:

Between 2020 and 2022, individuals who had orthodontic treatment at a tertiary care center had their data analysed. Patients with mild to severe malocclusions treated with conventional braces or Invisalign between the ages of 12 and 18 met the inclusion criteria. Assessments were done on results, length of treatment, degree of malocclusion, and long-term stability. With significance set at P < 0.05, statistical analyses comprised t-tests for treatment duration and Chi-square testing for malocclusion correction.

Findings:

The mean treatment time for Invisalign was much shorter (18 months) than for conventional braces (24 months) (P < 0.001). With 88–90% success rates, both techniques demonstrated remarkable success rates in malocclusion treatment. Even though Invisalign was associated with a somewhat greater percentage of relapse instances, the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Invisalign showed a much shorter treatment period than conventional braces, yet both showed excellent malocclusion correction. The choice of modality should be based on patient satisfaction, treatment objectives, and case complexity, taking into account the trade-offs between treatment length and potential variations in long-term stability.
Exploring Efficacy and Safety: Comparative Evaluation of Different Irrigation Solutions in Root Canal Therapy at a Tertiary Care Setting
Authors: Yadav Yesha , Anil C. K. , Kumar Neshaneni Satish , Batra Divya , Kapur Ishita , Chaturvedi Mudita , Mustafa Mohammed
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

In order to completely remove bacteria and debris from the root canal system, root canal treatment (RCT) calls for efficient irrigation methods. There is still a lack of research on the relative safety and efficacy of various irrigation systems in tertiary care settings.

Methods:

Patients receiving RCT at a tertiary care endodontic clinic were included in a prospective comparison research of 150 subjects. One of four irrigation solutions—sodium hypochlorite, chlorhexidine, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), or a combination of the three—was given to patients at random. Following surgery, microbial decrease and patient-reported pain levels were evaluated.

Results:

The analysis showed that there were significant differences (P < 0.05) in microbial decrease between the irrigation solution groups. EDTA, sodium hypochlorite, and chlorhexidine were the next three groups with the biggest mean log decrease in microbial counts, after the combination group. Nonetheless, there were no appreciable variations in the groups’ patient-reported pain levels (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:

Our results imply that microbial reduction in RCT is highly influenced by the irrigation solution selection. Without having an impact on the pain sensations reported by the patients, the combination of irrigation solutions showed higher efficacy in microbial control. These findings highlight how crucial it is to choose an irrigation solution carefully in order to maximize endodontic outcomes in tertiary care settings.