bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Normative values of oxygen saturation by pulse oximetry (SpO2) in apparently healthy children from Eastern India – A cross-sectional study
Authors: Chada Vivekan R. , Gulla Krishna M. , Das Rashmi R. , Kumar Ketan
Published: August 2024

Objectives:

The primary objective was to determine normative values of oxygen saturation (SpO2) by pulse oximetry in apparently healthy children, aged 1 month to 14 years. The secondary objective was to explore any variation in oxygen saturation levels by age and gender.

Materials and Methods:

It was a cross-sectional study conducted at a tertiary care centre and schools in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India, from January 2021 to December 2022. Apparently healthy children were enrolled. Using a standardized pulse oximeter and appropriately sized probes, SpO2 was recorded after stabilization of plethysmograph waves. Three consecutive readings were taken, and an average was noted. The 2.5th centile SpO2 value was taken as the lower limit of normal.

Results:

The median (IQR) saturation of the sample population was 99.7% (99–100). The 2.5th, 5th, 25th, and 75th percentiles were 97.7%, 98%, 99%, and 100%, respectively. Median SpO2 and its percentiles were estimated for each age group. The 2.5th centile SpO2 for infantile age group was 96.4%. No significant age and gender-wise variations of SpO2 were noted.

Conclusions:

The present study established normal reference range oxygen SpO2 levels in apparently healthy children from an eastern India region that is situated at 62 m (204 ft) above the sea level.
A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on the Effectiveness of Radiotherapy and Temozolomide Treatment With or Without Bevacizumab in Patients With Glioblastoma Multiforme
Authors: Yang Fu , Wang Liuli , Zhao Wei , Wang Shuai , Li Jinxing , Sun Aigang , Wang Mingguang , Wang Zengyong , Chen Zi , Heng Xueyuan
Published: August 2024

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most frequent primary brain malignancy in adults. Despite improvements in imaging and therapy, the prognosis remains poor. To evaluate and compare the impact of combining bevacizumab with temozolomide and radiotherapy on progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in patients diagnosed with GBM. A comprehensive search was conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and The Cochrane Library, covering the period from their inception to December 2022. The collected data underwent analysis employing appropriate statistical methods. Six articles were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The addition of bevacizumab to the combination of temozolomide/radiotherapy did not increase the OS in GBM patients. The pooled odds ratio (OR) was 0.843 (95% CI: 0.615–1.156, P = 0.290). The addition of bevacizumab to radiotherapy/temozolomide did not increase the PFS in patients with GBM. The pooled OR was 0.829 (95% CI: 0.561–1.224, P = 0.346). The funnel plot demonstrated the absence of the alleged pleiotropic effects by showing no evidence of observable variability across the estimations. This study does not support the benefit of the addition of bevacizumab to temozolomide and radiotherapy in improving OS and PFS in GBM patients.
Identification and Prognostic Value of m6A-Related Genes in Glioblastoma
Authors: Zheng Ping , Zhang Xiaoxue , Ren Dabin , Bai Qingke
Published: August 2024

Background:

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is one of the most common forms of mRNA modification, which is dynamically regulated by the m6A-related genes; however, its effect in glioblastoma (GBM) is still unknown.

Objective:

We sought to investigate the association between m6A-related genes (m6A-RGs) and GBM.

Methods:

Transcriptome data and the relevant clinical data were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas and Gene Expression Omnibus databases. The m6A-RGs were identified from differently expressed genes, and COX and lasso regression models were applied to locate the prognosis-related genes.

Results:

We identified 15 out of 19 m6A-RGs differentially expressed between GBM and nontumor tissues. We identified two subgroups of GBM (clusters 1 and 2) by applying consensus clustering. Compared with the cluster 1 subgroup, the cluster 1 subgroup correlates with a poorer prognosis, and most of the 19 m6A-RGs are higher expressed in cluster 1. Through univariate Cox and lasso regression model, we identified three m6A-RGs, namely HNRNPC, ALKBH5, and FTO, which were used to construct a Cox regression risk model to predict the prognosis of GBM patients.

Conclusion:

We identified a valuable m6A model for predicting the prognosis of GBM patients, which can provide useful epigenetic biomarkers.
A Pan-Cancer Analysis of the Oncogenic Role of Methyltransferase-Like 1 in Human Tumors
Authors: Zheng Ping , Yang Shunmin , Ren Dabin , Zhang Xiaoxue , Bai Qingke
Published: August 2024

Background and Object:

Although emerging cell- or animal-based evidence supports the relationship between methyltransferase-like 1 (METTL1) and cancers, no pan-cancer analysis is available.

Methods:

We thus first explored the potential oncogenic roles of METTL1 across 33 tumors based on the datasets of The Cancer Genome Atlas and Gene Expression Omnibus.

Results:

METTL1 is highly expressed in most cancers, and distinct associations exist between METTL1 expression and prognosis of tumor patients. METTL1 level is related with the dendritic and B-cell infiltration levels in most tumors. Moreover, RNA processing- and RNA metabolism-associated functions were involved in the functional mechanisms of METTL1.

Conclusion:

Our pan-cancer study offers a relatively comprehensive understanding of the oncogenic roles of METTL1 across different tumors.
Unifocal Primary Bone Lymphoma of the Lateral Mass of C1
Authors: Krishnan Prasad , Ghosh Nabanita , Maity Anupam , Roy Sanjoy
Published: August 2024

Primary bone lymphoma is an infrequently encountered tumor of the spine that has a better prognosis than other primary spinal malignancies. The understanding of this entity and its differences from other secondary bone lymphomas have evolved over time. The thoracic spine is the commonly reported site of the lesions. However, it is seldom considered as a first diagnosis when the patient presents to the neurosurgeon. A case of this uncommon tumor in a 68-year-old woman at an extremely rare location—the lateral mass of C1—is used to illustrate the detailed evaluation, nuances in treatment, and outcomes of primary bone lymphomas.
Relationship Between Asymmetry of Transverse Sinus and Difference in Intraocular Pressure
Authors: Zhu Dan , Zhang Weiguang , Qiu Dong , Zhang Dongtai , Li Yuanyuan , Li Jinping
Published: August 2024

Background and Objective:

This study used two-dimensional time-of-flight magnetic resonance venography (2D TOF MRV) to show the shape of the transverse sinus and to determine whether there is a correlation between the asymmetry of the transverse sinus morphology and the intraocular pressure (IOP) of the two eyes.

Methods:

In this study, 63 male and 42 female volunteers were included. Those with obvious neurological diseases and eye diseases were excluded. According to the morphology of the transverse sinus scanned with 2D TOF MRV, subjects were divided into five groups. The IOP of the volunteers was measured separately.

Results:

The difference between group I and group V is statistically significant (Z = 6.78, P < 0.01). Statistically, significant differences also existed among the IOP of each group, including the mean values of both eyes and the difference between the right eye and the left eye. The asymmetry of the transverse sinus maintained a negative correlation with the right IOP (r = 0.51, P < 0.01) and the difference between the right eye and the left eye (r = 0.79, P < 0.01). The asymmetry and the left IOP had no statistical correlation.

Conclusion:

The preliminary conclusion of this study is that if one side of the transverse sinus is thicker, the drainage-related ocular veins are relatively coarser, and the IOP is relatively lower. The 2D TOF MRV examination can be used as an examination to show the shape of the transverse sinus. It is a display method to provide a feasible means of inspection for a reasonable interpretation.
Perfusion MRI in Cerebral Venous and Sinus Thrombosis
Authors: Naik Suprava , Phadke Rajendra V , Bhoi Sanjeev Kumar , Chauhan Gaurav , Soni Neetu
Published: August 2024

Background and Purpose:

Cerebral venous and sinus thrombosis (CVST) leads to perfusion abnormality in the brain. Our aim was to assess perfusion abnormalities in the center and periphery of the parenchymal lesion in CVST patients and correlate with the clinical outcome.

Materials and Methods:

Dynamic susceptibility contrast (DSC) perfusion imaging was performed in patients with CVST. Relative cerebral blood flow (rCBF), relative cerebral blood volume (rCBV), and mean transit time (MTT) values were obtained in the center and periphery of the parenchymal lesion.

Results:

A total of 30 consecutive patients of CVST were included in the study. Parenchymal lesion was present in 21 (70%) patients. In rest 9, perfusion map was showing some abnormality although conventional MRI was normal. Mean rCBV and MTT were increasing from periphery of the lesion to the center (rCBV 69.93 ± 29.79 at periphery (PL2) to 92.49 ± 32.07 at center of the lesion and 69.19 ± 25.52 at normal appearing contralateral brain parenchyma (NABP). MTT 11.83 ± 3.76 at periphery (PL2) to 15.27 ± 5.49 at center of the lesion and 10.63 ± 3.37 at NABP). rCBV and MTT from abnormal perfusion areas from 9 patients without parenchymal abnormalities are 92.89 ± 17.76 and 15.92 ± 3.66 respectively.

Conclusion:

There is an increasing trend of MTT and rCBV from periphery to center of the parenchymal lesion. MTT is the most consistent parameter to be abnormal in patients of CVST even in patients without parenchymal lesion. Residual neurological deficit was found in patients with increased rCBV and having large hemorrhagic infarct.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Features of Sporadic Optic Chiasmatic–Hypothalamic Gliomas and Correlation with Histopathology and BRAF Gene Alterations
Authors: Vaidya Tanvi , Sahu Arpita , Epari Sridhar , Shetty Omshree , Gurav Mamta , Sahay Ayushi , Lad Shraddha , Kurki Vineeth , Kapadia Tejas , Chinnaswamy Girish , Goda Jayant , Shetty Prakash , Krishnatry Rahul , Chatterjee Abhishek , Singh Vikas , Moiyadi Aliasgar , Gupta Tejpal
Published: August 2024

Objective:

Sporadic optic chiasmatic–hypothalamic gliomas (OCHGs), though histologically low-grade tumors, manifest as aggressive neoplasms radiologically, leading to difficulty in diagnosis. Molecular alterations of the BRAF gene are detectable in a majority of sporadic OCHGs. The purpose of our study was to elucidate the characteristic imaging features of sporadic OCHGs and to investigate whether imaging phenotypes could potentially correlate with specific BRAF gene alterations associated with these tumors.

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed baseline magnetic resonance (MR) images and medical records of 26 patients with histopathologically proven sporadic OCHGs. MR imaging (MRI) features were systematically evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed to determine whether there was a significant association between imaging findings and BRAF molecular alterations.

Results:

Twenty-two cases (84.6%) presented with solid-cystic masses, while four (15.4%) presented with purely solid lesions. In all 26 cases, the solid component revealed central necrosis; there was minimal necrosis in 11 cases (42.3%), moderate in 8 (30.7%), and marked in 7 (26.9%). The presence of multiple cysts (>4) and minimal necrosis showed a significant association with BRAFV600E mutation (P < 0.005). Marked necrosis in the solid component significantly correlated with BRAF wild genotype (P < 0.001). The presence of a single peripheral cyst significantly correlated with BRAF fusion (P = 0.04).

Conclusion:

Sporadic OCHGs have a distinctive appearance on imaging. The solid-cystic composition coupled with varying degrees of central necrosis are clues to the radiological diagnosis of this entity and can facilitate early recognition in clinical practice. Imaging could potentially serve as a non-invasive predictor of the BRAF alteration status, thereby serving as a prognostic marker and guiding personalized management.
Rare and Combined Hepatic Artery Variants as Seen in Cadaveric and Postmortem Investigations: Anatomical Implications in Surgical Practice
Authors: Ande Thanuja , Makani Thanuja Kumari , Nannam Kavya , Velichety Subhadra Devi , Kumar Jyothi Ashok
Published: August 2024

Context:

Vascular variations are an unexpected finding during cadaveric dissections, postmortems, and surgical and diagnostic angiographic procedures. Usually, such abnormalities are asymptomatic, but the existence of hepatic vasculature anomalies might cause accidental injuries to the vasculature while performing surgical procedures.

Aim:

This study aimed to dissect human cadavers and postmortem specimens and to examine the variations of the hepatic artery system.

Materials and Method:

This study was conducted on 50 specimens, with 22 conducted in the dissection hall cadavers, while 28 were collected from the postmortem among the South Indian population irrespective of age and sex and investigated for variant hepatic arteries. The data were collected between January 2014 and December 2015.

Results:

The results of this study demonstrated that the common hepatic artery (CHA) originated directly from the aorta in 2%, and it was trifurcated into the right hepatic artery (RHA), left hepatic artery (LHA), and gastroduodenal artery (GDA) in 8%. It continued only as the LHA in 16% and only as RHA in 4%. The RHA arises from CHA in 8%, from the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) in 10%, from GDA in 4%, and from replaced CHA in 2%. The GDA accounted for 4% of the accessory RHA's origin, while the proper hepatic artery (PHA) accounted for 2%. The LHA from the CHA in 8% replaced the origin from the left gastric artery (LGA) in 4% and replaced CHA in 2%. The middle hepatic artery was noticed in 62% of the specimens.

Conclusion:

Surgeons and radiologists participating in angiographic procedures must have up-to-date knowledge of hepatic artery normal variant abnormalities.
Evaluation of the Antimicrobial Efficacy of Triphala, Aloe Vera, and Morinda Citrifolia (M. Citrifolia) as Potential Root Canal Irrigants and their Effectiveness in Decontaminating Gutta-Percha Cones: An In vitro Disk Diffusion and Digital Photo-Colorimeter-Based Study
Authors: Satyarth Saurabh , Subramani Savadamoorthi Kamatchi , Ganesan S , Swathika B , Sadananda Vandana , Chikkanna Meenakumari , Babu J Suresh , Swarnalatha C , Nayyar Abhishek Singh
Published: August 2024

Context and Aim:

A plethora of chemicals have been used for gutta-percha decontamination, though none of these methods have proven to be fully effective. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of triphala, aloe vera, and Morinda citrifolia (M. citrifolia) as potential root canal irrigants and their effectiveness in decontaminating gutta-percha cones against Escherichia coli (E. coli), Escherichia faecalis (E. faecalis), and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus).

Materials and Methods:

The antimicrobial efficacy of different herbal extracts against the reference strains of the test pathogens was assessed based on the zones of inhibition created, while for testing decontamination of gutta-percha cones, sterile gutta-percha cones were incubated in thioglycollate broth (THIO) followed by the evaluation of the turbidity values of the broth (in formazin turbidity units (FTU)) through digital photo-colorimeter.

Statistical Analysis Used:

One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Fisher's least significant difference (LSD) post hoc analysis were used for comparison between different groups. P <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

The results of this study revealed that for E. faecalis and E. coli, 90% ethanolic extracts of aloe vera had maximum efficacy with the diameter of the zone of inhibition achieved being 23.0 mm and 17.0 mm, respectively, while for S. aureus, both aloe vera and M. citrifolia showed equal zones of inhibition of diameter of 22.0 mm at 10-1 concentration.

Conclusions:

The results obtained in this study suggested that all three tested herbal extracts were found to have optimal antimicrobial activity against the test pathogens.
Causes of Childhood Morbidity and Mortality in Emergency Pediatrics Unit of Rasheed Shekoni Specialist Hospital, Dutse, Jigawa State, Nigeria
Authors: Also Umar , Gwarzo Garba D.
Published: August 2024

Context:

Under-five mortality rate in Nigeria is still high. Majority of the death are due to preventable diseases.

Aim:

To identify the causes of morbidity and mortality and mortality rate among children admitted to the Emergency Pediatrics Unit.

Setting and Design:

The study was a retrospective. Medical records of children admitted to Emergency Pediatric Unit of state specialist hospital in north-western Nigeria from January 2017 to December 2018 were retrieved.

Material and Method:

A designed proforma was used to extract information from medical records. Ethical clearance was obtained from the hospital.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Data were analyzed using SPSS version 16.

Results:

Records of 1,126 children admitted were analyzed. Their ages were 1 month to 13 years. Severe malaria (45.6%) and sepsis (13.9%) were the common reasons for admission. Majority (60.0%) were discharged home, 29.0% were transferred to the ward, and 0.5% discharged against medical advice. Mortality rate was 10.5%. Majority (50.3%) of the mortalities occurred less than 24 hours of admission. Under-five children had highest mortality (66.9%).

Conclusion:

Infectious diseases especially malaria and sepsis are still common causes of morbidity and mortality in children admitted to emergency unit.
Health Facility-Based Maternal Mortality in Nigeria: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Haruna Iman U , Yakasai Ahmad M , Haruna Sadiya W , Yau Jamila A , Jaafar Yusuf A , Muhammad Hamza , Tukur Jamilu
Published: August 2024

Nigeria has been reaffirming its commitment to reducing maternal death at national and international levels. Multiple strategies have therefore been formulated at different levels of the maternal healthcare delivery chain including health facilities. However, varying rates of maternal death are still being reported from health facilities in Nigeria. This study aimed at exploring the trend in maternal death across health facilities in Nigeria to guide policy making and/ or implementation. A systematic review and meta-analysis of studies conducted in Nigeria was undertaken according to standard protocol. Random and fixed effects model procedures were used to pool estimates from the studies that satisfied the inclusion criteria. Derived estimates were examined for heterogeneity, publication bias and quality using I-squared statistic, Egger's/Begg's tests and modified Downs/Black checklist respectively. The pooled maternal mortality ratio for Nigeria derived from 24 studies that reported data for 96 health facilities was 1470 per 100,000 live births. In restricted analysis, estimates for geopolitical zones were: South East (SE) 1449; South South (SS) 1825; South West (SW) 1564; North Central (NC) 1769; North East (NE) 1670 and North West 1530(NW). There was no publication bias in all analyses even though small sample size in restricted analysis and differing study duration may influence pooled estimates. Health facility-derived maternal mortality in Nigeria is unprecedentedly high and appropriate measures need to be put in place to reduce the MMR in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa as a whole.
Meibomian gland dysfunction treated with a novel device: A case series
Authors: Daniel Bastán-Fabián , Raúl Trejo Treviño , Moisés Guillén Ortiz Jan , Valdez-García Jorge Eugenio
Published: August 2024

The effectiveness of a novel device, the MGrX (OcuSci), in treating meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), is reviewed in this case series. The case series follows the ocular surface evaluation of 12 patients; all evaluated using the ocular surface disease index and infrared meibography with the Me-Check meibography device (Espansione, Italy). Evaluations were performed before and 4–6 weeks after therapy. The mean pretreatment OSDI score was 26.89 (±9.14). The mean posttreatment OSDI score was 13.29 (±14.04). The MGrX device appears to be a safe, effective, and quick way of treating MGD in patients of a wide range of ages and with different dry eye disease severity.
Effect of the use of biological therapy on dry eye parameters in patients with Sjögren’s syndrome
Authors: Vargas Julio Cesar Blanco , Córdoba Claudia Johanna Martínez , Robles Luis Alberto Ruiz
Published: August 2024

Purpose:

To compare dry eye symptoms and signs in a group of patients with Sjögren’s syndrome (SS), before and after the start of biological therapy for active systemic disease.

Methods:

Observational longitudinal retrospective study, including adult patients with a previous diagnosis of primary or secondary SS. Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) test, tear breakup time (TBUT), and Schirmer test where registered before and after at least 1 year of use of biological therapy.

Results:

One hundred and nineteen patients were included, 83 (69.7%) females and 36 (30.3%) males, average age was 62.2 years, and the average time of use of biologics was 3.6 years. The main biologic agents used were adalimumab (22.7%), infliximab (20.2%), rituximab (16.0%), etanercept (13.4%), and abatacept (7.6%). After the implementation of biologic therapy, the percentage of patients with deficient and severely deficient Schirmer’s test decreased from 64.7% to 60.5% and from 18.5% to 11.8%, respectively, whereas adequate test increased from 16.8% to 27.7%. Deficient TBUT decreased from 74.8% to 63.0%. In OSDI evaluation, the percentage of asymptomatic patients increased from 3.4% to 18.5%, and severe symptoms decreased from 26.9% to 9.2%. Individual therapy analysis failed to find significative changes in terms of percentage variation and Cohen’s kappa for objective variables; however, substantial changes were observed in the OSDI test, particularly in patients treated with infliximab, rituximab, and abatacept.

Conclusion:

Use of biologics in SS remains restricted to patients with systemic active disease; however, a possible effect on dry eye symptoms arises as a secondary outcome, which could positively impact quality of life.
A comparative investigation of three-dimensional printing models (rapid prototyping) made by imaging systems including multidetector computed tomography and cone-beam computed tomography systems
Authors: Cheraghi Fatemeh , Shokri Abbas , Tapak Leili , Niaee Morteza Shakhsi
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

Biomedical models (rapid prototyping) had a vast use in maxillofacial diagnosis and surgeries. Using this technology can lead to improvement in preoperative treatment planning and an increase in surgery quality. In this study, we investigated and compared the models derived from multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) radiography systems.

Aim:

In this study, we investigated and compared the models derived from MDCT and CBCT radiography systems to see which is the most accurate.

Materials and Methods:

Five dried human mandibles were chosen in this study. These landmarks were chosen to investigate the reproduction ability: mental foramen, genial tubercle, central incisor, alveolar crest edge to the inferior mandibular border in midline, two bone defects in approximate dimensions of 3 × 3 mm2, first molar socket depth in the mesiobuccal line angle, mesiodistal length of tooth socket bone at the buccal and buccolingual width of tooth socket bone at mesial. Radiographs were taken using one MDCT and two CBCT systems. Then, models were built through a three-dimensional (3D) printer, and the mentioned landmarks were measured using a digital caliper. Data were entered in SPSS version 23 software and were analyzed with the ANOVA and Tukey tests.

Results:

In the reproduction of superior-inferior dimension and mesiodistal width of all mentioned landmarks, there were no significant differences between models made by data derived from Cranex 3D and NewTom 3G with a small field of view, in comparison with the gold standard (P > 0.05). However, there is a significant difference in the reproduction of landmarks between models made from MDCT and NewTom 3G with a large field of view, in comparison with the gold standard (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Models made from CBCT Devices with a small field of view have an acceptable and reliable accuracy for assessing bone structures. However, for CBCT devices with a large field of view and computed tomography-scan devices, models have less accuracy.
The first composite increment: Dependency on placement technique for interaction behavior with maturing dentin-adhesive bond at pulpal floors in deep occlusal cavities – A comprehensive review
Authors: Hassan Khamis A. , Khier Salwa E.
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

When the traditional incremental technique is used for direct placement of composite resin in a deep occlusal cavity, each increment (2 mm or thicker) is individually cured where it undergoes hardening and shrinkage. As increments are bonded to all cavity walls, a constrained shrinkage develops in tooth, composite, and/or interfaces. In the first composite increment, this constrained shrinkage generates tensile stresses which are distributed in a nonuniform pattern within that increment, resulting in premature stressing of the dentin bond of the hybrid layer at the pulpal floor before it reaches full maturation. This premature stressing leads to initiation of interfacial debonding and propagation to form a microgap. This behavior is associated with persistent postoperative sensitivity and tooth pain, over the time, which subsequently results in restoration failure.

Aims:

This paper provides a comprehensive review on the first composite increment and its dependency on placement technique for the interaction behavior with the maturing dentin-adhesive bond at pulpal floors in deep occlusal cavities.

Materials and Methods:

The dental database was searched, and 59 articles were collected and included in this review, spanning the years from 1984 to 2023.

Results and Discussion:

Three biomimetic direct restorative techniques were reported in the literature for incrementally restoring large occlusal cavities. These techniques are the decoupling with time, the decoupling with fiber, and the decoupling with split-increment. They all aim at minimizing the generated shrinkage stresses in the first composite increment for protecting the developing dentin bond of the hybrid layer until it reaches full maturation and thus preventing the initiation and propagation of interfacial defects at pulpal floors of deep occlusal cavities. Finally, the restoration is completed by placing and curing successive increments of 1.5 mm each to fill the cavity; their number depends on the cavity depth. These increments can each be cured immediately following placement.

Conclusions:

In deep occlusal cavities, the interaction behavior between the first composite increment and the maturing dentin-adhesive bond at the pulpal floor depends on the technique used for the increment placement. This behavior is either favorable with the direct biomimetic techniques or unfavorable with the traditional incremental technique. With the direct biomimetic techniques, no premature shrinkage stressing of the dentin bond is induced at the pulpal floor. This prevents the initiation of interfacial debonding and propagation to form microgaps and results in the absence of postoperative sensitivity and persistent tooth pain.
The prevalence and distribution of hypodontia in children of North Syria
Authors: Almerei Moatasem , Habib Adnan Asaad , Chehadi Omar
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

Congenital absence of teeth is a common developmental dental anomaly in humans that affects the occlusal development and the beauty of the smile in particular and the face in general, especially if the injury is in the frontal area.

Aim:

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and distribution of hypodontia of permanent teeth in a Syrian population.

Materials and Methods:

Four hundred and sixty panoramic X-rays of children in North Syria, whose ages ranged from approximately 6–12 years, were taken at the dental clinics of the hospital of Syrian University for Science and Technology, Aleppo, Syria. The prevalence and distribution of hypodontia were recorded, and descriptive statistics were performed. A Chi-square test was used to determine the difference between genders (α =0.05).

Results and Discussion:

The prevalence of hypodontia was 7.8% (females 9.6% and males 6.5%). The most frequently missing teeth were the mandibular second premolar, maxillary lateral incisors, and mandibular central incisors. Missing was significantly more frequent in the mandible compared to the maxilla (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

The number of cases of congenital absence of permanent teeth is impressive. These conditions can cause many dental problems, so careful examination and proper investigation are required to diagnose them and prevent subsequent problems.
Rivets, Steel, Corrosion and Heat Resistant 18Cr - 10.5Ni - 0.70(Cb+Ta) Solution Heat Treated Procurement Specification For
Authors:   E-25 General Standards for Aerospace and Propulsion Systems
Published: August 2024

This procurement specification covers aircraft-quality solid rivets and tubular end rivets made from a corrosion-resistant steel of the type identified under the Unified Numbering System as UNS S34700.
V2X Misbehavior Reporting™ ASN file
Authors:   V2X Security Technical Committee
Published: August 2024

This set of Abstract Syntax Notation (ASN.1) modules contains the precise definitions of data structures used in the SAE J3287 standard. Using the ASN.1 specification, a compiler tool can produce libraries that enable software applications to use the data structures and produce corresponding encodings using the Octet Encoding Rules (OER). For further information see the body of SAE J3287.

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V2X Misbehavior Reporting™ the J3287 PDF.

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MAPPING THE TERRAIN OF TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP, ORGANIZATIONAL COMMITMENT, AND EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT: A CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK
Authors: Sariono Endro , Sugiono Edi , Hasanudin Hasanudin
Published: August 2024

Organizational commitment and transformational leadership play an important role in organizational success. This study explores the interrelationships between organizational commitment and employee engagement, highlighting their interconnected nature and implications for organizational effectiveness. A conceptual framework approach is used to map the interdependencies between transformational leaders, organizational commitment, and employees. Key findings and models from the selected studies are extracted to identify common themes and gaps. The conceptual framework aims to provide a foundational reference for future empirical studies and will assist practitioners in devising leadership strategies that effectively harness the potential of their workforce. The framework provides a comprehensive understanding of how leadership behaviors influence employees' emotional attachment to the organization and their subsequent engagement in their work roles.
Family Planning and Christianity: A Pastor's View Between the Commandment of Genesis 1:28 and the Implementation of Family Planning For Churches in Indonesia
Authors: Hutabarat Patuan Andre , Harianja Simion Diparuma , Samosir Lustani
Published: August 2024

This research is motivated by the fact that there is an explosion of population growth in the world, which causes environmental issues / natural destruction and impacts the lives of mankind. This contradicts the original creation of mankind (Gen 1:28), where God the Creator had created mankind in his image, blessed them to be fruitful, subdued the earth, and cared for allcreation. However, because mankind wanted to be like God, they fell into sin, and God punished them, which resulted in mankind's responsibility to care for the earth becomingdestructive to the world and nature due to a lack of self-control. Seeing the destruction of nature and the vast population growth, humans began to control themselves through the family planning movement to curb the population growth rate.This research uses qualitative research with data collection techniques in the form of literature and field studies consisting of moderate participatory observation, semi-structured in-depth interviews, and documentation studies; the research instrument is the researcher himself, with 6 informants determined based on snowball techniques and triangulation analysis. The results show that the effectiveness of the role of pastors/churches is instrumental in forming a responsible family through premarital counseling for those who will start/create a new family.
The Role of Christian Family Education in Anticipating Sexual Deviations in Society
Authors: Marbun Nurmiati , Imeldawati Tiur , Sihombing Enja , Lukita Dewi Elisabeth Savitri , Br Torus Melda Depita
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this research was to provide an explanation of the first things to discover and explain the issue of sexual deviation as part of a Bible study. Second, to find and explain the factors that cause sexual deviation in society even though Allah only created men and women. This research is motivated by the author's concern with a phenomenon that exists in society, namely LGBT issues as something that is trending. Using qualitative methods in the form of interviews and literature studies, it was found that the family is the main person responsible for anticipating deviant sexual behavior in children. Parents are role models in spirituality who must instill the fear of God in their children, so that children find the correct self-image as God's creation, namely boys and girls. Families also need to provide proper education and encourage children to become future generations who make achievements and are proud of being children. The Bible must be the basic reference for spiritual education in the family.
Keywords: family education, sexual deviation.
Surgical decision-making: key factors influencing the shift from laparoscopic to open cholecystectomy
Authors: Jaber Amjed
Published: August 2024

Background: Recognizing the preoperatively and intraoperatively factors can aid surgeons in making timely decisions to shift from laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) to open cholecystectomy (OC). This study aims to identify the main factors leading to LC conversion to OC among Iraqi patients.
Methods: One-year prospective research was performed using cross-sectional design between 1st April, 2023, and 3oth March, 2024, at Alkalis General Public Hospital and Al Hayat Private Hospital, Diyala, Iraq. Pre and intraoperative data were collected from the planned LC surgeries including demographics, medical history, laboratory and Ultrasound findings. Descriptive and bivariate analysis was carried out to compare variables between patients undergoing LC and those requiring conversion to OC.
Results: Out of 172 LC patients (mean age 48.28±12.62), 52.9% were female, 55.8% obese, 50.6% aged 49+, 23.3% diabetic, and 19.8% had emergency cholecystectomy; 15 (8.7%) required conversion to open surgery. The conversion group was mainly men (66.7% vs. 46.5%, P = 0.001) and older (73.3% vs. 48.4% aged 49+, P = 0.003). Obesity (60.0% vs. 55.4%, P = 0.005) and diabetes (53.3% vs. 20.4%, P < 0.001) were more common. Public hospital referrals were higher (86.7% vs. 52.2%, P < 0.001). Elevated total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, and alkaline phosphatase levels were significant predictors of conversion to OC. Adhesions in Calot's triangle (20.0% vs. 13.4%, P = 0.021) were more common in the conversion group, along with unclear anatomy, thick gallbladder wall, bleeding, stone and bile spillage, and cystic duct injury.
Conclusion: In conclusion, out of 172 LC patients, 15 (8.7%) required conversion to open surgery, predominantly older men with higher obesity, diabetes, and elevated bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase levels, and more adhesions in Calot's triangle.
Community knowledge, attitudes, and practices about toxoplasmosis in Unguja Island, Tanzania
Authors: Paul Cynthia , Mkupasi Ernatus , Martin Martin , Katakweba Abdul
Published: August 2024

Background: Toxoplasmosis is among the globally neglected zoonotic diseases caused by Toxoplasma gondii. Humans get infected after ingesting or coming into contact with oocysts from the feces of infected cats. Illiteracy about the infection is one of the significant risk factors for its transmission. The study aimed to determine the community knowledge, attitudes, and practices that influence toxoplasmosis transmission in Unguja Island, Zanzibar, Tanzania.
Methods: The study used a cross-sectional design, which was done from February to April 2023. Semi-structured questionnaires collected data on 139 respondents' demographics, practices, knowledge, and attitudes regarding toxoplasmosis. The chi-square test was used to assess the statistical association between variables at a p-value of < 0.05.  
Results: Out of 139 recruited respondents, only 18.0% of respondents were aware of Toxoplasmosis. The study revealed several risk factors for Toxoplasmosis transmission, whereby 63.1% of the cat owners didn't deworm their cats regularly, 70.8% didn't clean the cat kennels, and 53.1% didn't wash their hands after cleaning kennels and touching a cat. Furthermore, out of all respondents, about two-thirds didn't drink treated water and 87.8% ate raw vegetables as salads. The study revealed both negative and positive attitudes concerning Toxoplasmosis, where 64.7% of respondents thought that cats cannot transmit pathogens to humans and 66.2% did not agree with people interacting with stray cats, respectively. There was an association of awareness of the disease's existence with high education levels (P value = 0.001) and sex (females) (P = 0.002).
Conclusion: The study revealed a low awareness of the existence of the infection despite the higher interaction of cats with humans in the study area. We recommend the provision of public health education focusing on how the disease is transmitted, the relationship of the disease with cats, the management of cat feces, clinical signs of the disease, its treatment, and control.
Seroprevalence and risk factors for brucellosis in cattle and rodents in Kilosa district, Morogoro, Tanzania
Authors: Mwamengele Gilbert , Sabuni Christopher , Mathew Coletha
Published: August 2024

Background: Brucellosis is a global zoonosis caused by gram-negative bacteria that affects a diverse array of hosts including humans, domestic animals as well as wild animals such as cattle (B. abortus), goats, and sheep (B. melitensis), pigs (B. suis), and rodents (B. neotomae), and results in financial setbacks in the livestock industry. This study aimed to identify risk factors and estimate the seroprevalence of brucellosis in cattle and rodents in Kilosa district, Tanzania.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2023 to March 2023, cattle were randomly selected and rodents were trapped using Sherman, wire cages, and havahart traps. Blood samples were collected from the jugular vein and heart of the cattle and rodents, respectively. Sera were harvested from the collected blood and stored at – 20 ºC. All the sera were screened for brucella antibodies using the Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT) and confirmed by competitive Enzyme Linked Immuno Sorbent Assay (c-ELISA). The risk factors were captured using a structured questionnaire and analyzed by computing the Chi-square test and generalized linear model.
Results: The seroprevalence of brucellosis was found to be 5.31% in cattle (95% CI: 0.0286-0.089) and 0.72% in rodents (95% CI: 0.0002-0.0397). A significant association was observed between grazing style and brucellosis seropositivity in cattle, with cattle that grazed together with sheep and goats having significantly higher odds of seropositivity (OR=6.5; 95% CI: 1.74-42.17, **p < 0.01).
Conclusion: The detection of Brucella antibodies in both species indicates ongoing transmission and potential risk to public health. Our findings suggest that rodents may serve as reservoirs of brucellosis, contributing to its persistence and spread. Further research is essential to characterize the specific brucella species circulating among cattle and rodents and to understand the dynamics of interspecies transmission.
Magtayo Instructional Framework in Teaching Social Constructivist Strategies for Junior High School Social Studies
Authors: Pimentel Marivic
Published: August 2024

The study explored the social constructivist practices and experiences in teaching social constructivist strategies of Junior High School Social Studies teachers. The study used a qualitative single exploratory case study. Thirteen Social Studies teachers who were purposely selected based on the results of the pre-assessment survey participated to share their social constructivist practices and experiences. Interviews, classroom observation, lesson plans, and FGD were used in this research to collect data, and a thematic three-phase analysis was done. Based on the findings, the Social Studies teacher's social constructivist teaching practices in terms of teaching, assessment, and resources meet the needs of students and give them opportunities to express their constructions of knowledge, interact in social groups, give students a chance to correct their wrong constructions and broaden their construction of knowledge through various resources. The evolved experiences are essential to improving the teaching and learning process, such as misconceptions about social constructivist strategies, lowering students’ interactions in flexible learning, and high engagement of students’ learning. Thus, the Magtayo instructional framework is designed to serve as a guide for employing social constructivist strategies.
K-Nearest Neighbors (K-NN) Algorithm Model in Predicting the Graduation Rate of Teacher Professional Education Students in Indonesia
Authors: Musthofa Musthofa , Yunitasari Dwi , Nasikhin Nasikhin , Wang Juanduo
Published: August 2024

Predicting the graduation rate of the PPG program has an important significance in analyzing the factors that affect students' success in completing the PPG program. This study uses the K-Nearest Neighbor model in online learning to predict the pass rate of students in the Teacher Professional Education Program (PPG) at UIN Walisongo Semarang. The study analyzed data from 423 students, focusing on input quality variables, such as pedagogical competence and teaching innovation. Results showed the Wave 1 pass rate in 2023 was 86.7%, with 13.3% failure, a 1.7% decrease from Wave 3 in 2022. The confusion matrix showed significant improvement in True Positives (TP) and True Negatives (TN), with an accuracy of 0.916, precision of 0.3, and recall of 0.9725 students' academic achievement.
Management of Arabic Language Learning Based on Self-Regulated Learning and Its Application at The Modern Islamic Boarding School
Authors: Musgamy Awaliah , Rusydi Muhammad
Published: August 2024

The background of the research shows that the strategy carried out by the modern Islamic boarding school in the implementation of Arabic language learning management based on self-regulated learning is a distinctive scientific phenomenon. This study examines the application of self-regulated learning-based Arabic language learning management. As a field research through qualitative research with a phenomenological paradigm, the research data was obtained through interviews, observations, documentation, and reference searches to be further processed and analyzed through reduction, exposure, and conclusion of data. The study results show that the components of self-regulated learning, which in this case consist of motivation regulation, planning, effort regulation, attention focusing, task strategies, using additional resources, and self-instruction, can be identified which are applied to sit students as creative learning subjects. The conclusion shows that applying various self-regulated learning components contributes to shaping students' creativity in participating in Arabic language learning.
Sustainable Development Education in Times of the Post Era: Challenges, Opportunities, and Strategies for Digital Transformation in Language Learning and Teaching
Authors: Larsari Vahid Norouzi
Published: August 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic abruptly shifted language education to online platforms, presenting challenges and opportunities for digital transformation. Over 1.5 years, digital education became essential, forcing millions of language educators and institutions to adapt to remote instruction. This article aims to understand and make known the consequences of the Post-COVID-19 pandemic specifically in digital transformation in language learning and teaching. This article examines the impact of the post-COVID-19 era on the digital transformation of language learning and teaching. The researcher systematically searched academic literature published between 2020 and 2022, using databases like Google Scholar, PubMed, and ScienceDirect, focusing on keywords related to COVID-19, language learning, teaching, and online education. By analyzing various documentary sources, the study explores how educators and learners have navigated online platforms, identifying difficulties and innovative strategies that emerged during the transition.
The Influence of Knowledge Development on Good University Governance in Indonesian Universities
Authors:   Universitas Sumatera Utara, Bangun Vania Stephani , Kesuma Sambas Ade ,   Universitas Sumatera Utara, Gultom Parapat ,   Universitas Sumatera Utara
Published: August 2024

The implementation of Good University Governance (GUG) is anticipated to enhance transparency, accountability, university performance, and elevate the competitiveness of universities to international levels. Despite these expectations, the current implementation of GUG in Indonesia falls short. This research specifically focuses on examining the impact of Knowledge Development (KD) on GUG in public universities in Indonesia, utilizing the Resource-Based View (RBV) theory. The study population comprises public universities in Indonesia under the Directorate General of Higher Education of Indonesia (DIKTI). The sampling method employed is cluster sampling. The collected data are processed using SPSS for descriptive analytics and SmartPLS. The results indicate a positive and significant effect of KD on GUG. In essence, these findings align with the RBV theory, asserting that university capabilities contribute to enhancing overall university performance. Additionally, suggestions have been proposed for future research to expand the study’s scope by investigating other variables that may potentially influence Good University Governance (GUG) and university performance.
Driving Cloud Cost Efficiency: A Collaborative FinOps Approach for Cloud-Native SaaS
Authors:   Independent Researcher, Dallas, TX – 75040, USA, Manchana Ramakrishna
Published: August 2024

The cloud computing paradigm has revolutionized the IT landscape, offering scalability, flexibility, and agility. However, the variable cost model of the cloud can lead to unanticipated expenses if not managed proactively.