bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Character Education Management Through Intracurricular, Co-curricular, and Extracurricular Activities in Schools
Authors: Halimah Siti , Wulandari Fitri , Nurbayah Siti , Saidah Farichatus , Ulum M. Zainul
Published: January 2025

Character education in schools is becoming increasingly important in the formation of students' noble values in the complex modern era. However, the implementation of systematic and integrated character education management still faces various challenges in the field, including in the integration of character values into intracurricular, co-curricular, and extracurricular activities. This study aims to explore the implementation of character education management at MAN Kota Pasuruan. The research method used is a descriptive qualitative approach, with data collection techniques through in-depth interviews, observation, and documentation. The results show that MAN Kota Pasuruan has succeeded in effectively integrating character values into the curriculum through the Pancasila Rahmatan lil ‘Alamin project, as well as implementing a holistic assessment system that includes cognitive and character aspects of students. This study provides theoretical contributions by strengthening the understanding of the interaction of various approaches to character education, as well as practical recommendations for the development of character education programs in other madrasas. These findings are expected to be a reference for educational institutions in increasing the effectiveness of character education through systematic and collaborative management.
Teacher Strategies for Improving Students’ Questioning Skills in Class
Authors: Andawiyah Robiatul , Masrurah Waqi'atul , Maimun Maimun , Hamdani Hamdani
Published: January 2025

The phenomenon that occurs in learning is based on the lack of students who are interested in asking questions in learning. This is not because students already understand the material being absorbed, but because students do not have the skills to ask questions. The aim of this research is to explore teacher strategies in increasing student asking questions in class. The method used in this research is the library method, by collecting data from relevant literature. The primary source in this research is a study of learning strategies, while the secondary data is from studies that are based on primary sources. The steps taken in the process of collecting data are preparing writing tools, creating a framework, and recording the data obtained. The results of this research are: (1) Before the teacher increases students’ questioning, the teacher must first have the skill of asking questions as part of teaching skills, (2) The teacher creates a stimulus-oriented learning program which in its activities requires a response from students. (3) The strategy for increasing students’ asking questions is by improving the methods used, materials that are appropriate to students’ capacities, language that is easy to understand, and approaching students. The results of this research can contribute to teaching staff in improving students’ skills in asking questions with the solutions offered from the results of this research.
Merdeka Mengajar Platform: A Digital Innovation in Education
Authors: Makkiyah Fawaidul , Rohmatulloh Ulul Azmi Nur , Setyowati Sri , Khamidi Amrozi
Published: January 2025

Digital transformation in education brings opportunities and challenges for educators in Indonesia, especially in integrating technology into learning practices. As an innovative step, the Merdeka Mengajar Platform (PMM) is here to improve teacher competence and support the implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum. This study examines the use of PMM at UPT SDN 144 Gresik, especially in helping teachers prepare interactive and student-centered learning plans. Using a qualitative approach with descriptive methods, data was obtained through interviews, observations, and document analysis. The results of the study indicate that PMM is effective in improving the quality of teaching and professional competence of teachers, despite obstacles such as limited infrastructure, outdated devices, slow internet connections, and difficulties in adapting to digital technology for senior teachers. This study provides practical insights into strategies to overcome these obstacles, such as improving infrastructure, more targeted training, and developing offline features to support areas with limited internet access. With these findings, PMM shows its potential in driving a more innovative and inclusive educational transformation, in line with the vision of improving the quality of education in Indonesia.
Developing Children’s Ability to Read the Qur’an with the Qiro’ati Method
Authors: Fitriana Aida , Hidayatulloh ZC Mohammad Syarif
Published: January 2025

Qur’an Education Park (TPQ) acts as a solution to improve Qur’an literacy among children who have limited access to formal religious education by implementing a systematic Qiro’ati method and emphasizing the use of tajwid from the beginning of learning. This study aims to examine the application of the Qiro’ati method at TPQ. H. Achmad Ali and to explore the efforts made by teachers in developing children’s Qur’an reading skills with the Qiro’ati method. The method used in this study is descriptive qualitative, with research subjects including the head of TPQ, teachers, and students. Data were collected through observation, interviews, documentation, and literature studies. The results of the study showed that teachers made various efforts to develop students’ Qur’an reading skills through the application of the Qiro’ati method at TPQ, namely providing examples of how to read the Qur’an with tartil and clearly, listening to readings individually, approaching through the pre-volume method, providing repetition material, habituating reading the Qur’an continuously, packaging learning with interesting games, providing motivation, reading additional material during rows, and holding coaching for teachers. This research contributes to providing practical insights into the implementation of the Qiro’ati method at the local level so that it can be a reference for other TPQs in increasing the effectiveness of learning to read the Qur’an.
Infrared Compositional Measurements in Comet C/2017 K2 (Pan-STARRS) at Heliocentric Distances Beyond 2.3 au
Authors: Ejeta Chemeda , Gibb Erika , DiSanti Michael A. , Kawakita Hideyo , Bonev Boncho P. , Dello Russo Neil , Roth Nathan X. , Khan Younas , McKay Adam J. , Combi Michael R. , Feaga Lori , Saki Mohammad , Vervack Jr Ronald J. , Shou Yinsi
Published: January 2025

Comet C/2017 K2 (Pan-STARRS) provided a rare opportunity to investigate the evolution of coma composition and outgassing patterns over a transitional heliocentric distance (R
h) range where activity drivers in comets are thought to change from “hypervolatile” (CO, CH4, C2H6, and/or CO2)-dominated to H2O-dominated. We performed high-resolution (

λ

/

Δ
λ

≈ 25,000–42,000), cross-dispersed, near-infrared spectroscopy of C/2017 K2 with iSHELL at the NASA Infrared Telescope Facility and NIRSPEC at the W. M. Keck II Observatory. We report gas rotational temperatures (T
rot) and molecular production rates (Q; molecules per second) or upper limits for the “hypervolatile” species CH4, CO, and C2H6, together with less volatile ices (CH3OH, H2O, HCN, C2H2, NH3, and OCS) over a range of pre-perihelion distances, R
h = 3.15–2.35 au. We also report (or stringently constrain) abundance ratios (mixing ratios) of the targeted species with respect to CO, C2H6, and (when detected) H2O. All volatiles were enriched relative to water in C/2017 K2 when compared to their mean values among Oort Cloud comets, whereas abundances relative to C2H6 were consistent with their average values from other long-period comets.
Observations of the Ultraviolet-bright Star III-60 in the Globular Cluster NGC 6723
Authors: Dixon William V.
Published: January 2025

We have analyzed archival far-ultraviolet spectra of the UV-bright star III-60 in the globular cluster NGC 6723 obtained with the Far Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Explorer and the Cosmic Origins Spectrograph. We find that the star's photospheric parameters (effective temperature T
eff = 44,800 ± 1200 K, surface gravity

log
g
=
4.89
±
0.18

, and helium abundance

log
N
(
He
)
/
N
(
H
)
=
−
0.84
±
0.29

) are consistent with the values derived from its optical spectrum, suggesting that optically derived values are generally accurate for evolved stars with T
eff ≲ 50,000 K. Relative to the cluster's red giant branch stars, III-60 is enhanced in nitrogen and depleted in carbon and oxygen. The star exhibits strong P Cygni profiles in both components of the N v
λ1240 doublet, but the resonance lines of other species show no evidence of a stellar wind. The star's effective temperature and luminosity place it on the evolutionary tracks of stars evolving from the blue horizontal branch, but its high mass (∼1.2 M
⊙) indicates that it is the product of a stellar merger. Its helium, carbon, and nitrogen abundances suggest that it is following an evolutionary path similar to that of the low-carbon, intermediate helium-rich hot subdwarfs.
That “darned Dorsiceratus case” (Copepoda, Harpacticoida, Cletodidae T. Scott)—an attempt of a systematic approach, including the description of three new species
Authors: George Kai Horst , Tönjes Lukas , Yurtdaş Songül
Published: January 2025

Despite the generally recognised importance of CopepodaHarpacticoida in aquatic ecosystems, our knowledge of that taxon is still very patchy and even marginal with regard to deep-sea representatives. Nonetheless, studies over the past decades have shown that deep-sea Harpacticoida present an almost overwhelming diversity of species. In order to obtain a most realistic assessment of this, taxonomic studies are essential in addition to faunistic ones. They reveal that particularly rare deep-sea groups can be characterised by a large number of different species even from the same location. One such rare group is the taxon Dorsiceratus Drzycimski, a representative of the so-called Ceratonotus group (Cletodidae T. Scott). The five species known to date, namely Dorsiceratus dinah George & Plum, Do. octocornis Drzycimski, Do. triarticulatus Coull, Do. ursulae George, and Do. wilhelminae George & Plum, indicate a worldwide distribution of Dorsiceratus. On the one hand, they are characterised by very similar morphological features. Simultaneously, however, derived characters occur very scattered, making a clear characterisation of both the species and a monophylum Dorsiceratus difficult. The aim of the present morphological comparison is to substantiate a monophylum Dorsiceratus and also to characterise the species known to date. For this purpose, we studied Dorsiceratus specimens collected from various marine areas over the past 26 years. The monophyly of Dorsiceratus can be justified by the following autapomorphies: (1) mandibular palpus without basal seta 1, (2) P2enp2 with 1 apical seta, (3) P2exp3 with tube pore, (4) P4 endopod sexually dimorphic. The species can also be characterised by at least one autapomorphy each. Among a total of 57 individuals we studied, we assigned 12 to three new species: Do. andeepsp. nov., Do. denizaesp. nov., and Do. karinaesp. nov., and one male specimen appears to resemble Do. ursulae. However, the remaining 44 individuals could not be morphologically assigned to any of the known or new species. They were provisionally assigned to eight different morphotypes and a heterogeneous morpho-group, which, however, cannot be justified phylogenetically. According to our results, morphological comparison alone is not sufficient for an unambiguous assignment of future findings to Dorsiceratus. It needs to be supplemented by molecular analyses. A diagnostic key to species is provided.
Mussa Puzzle Redux
Authors: Itskhoki Oleg , Mukhin Dmitry
Published: January 2025

The Mussa (1986) puzzle is the observation of a sharp and simultaneous increase in the volatility of both nominal and real exchange rates following the end of the Bretton Woods System of pegged exchange rates in 1973. It is commonly viewed as a central piece of evidence in favor of monetary non‐neutrality because it is an instance in which a change in the monetary regime caused a dramatic change in the equilibrium behavior of a
real variable—the real exchange rate—and is often further interpreted as direct evidence in favor of models with
nominal rigidities in price setting. This paper shows that the data do not support this latter conclusion because there was no simultaneous change in the properties of the other macro variables, nominal or real; an extended set of Mussa facts falsifies both
conventional flexible‐price RBC models and sticky‐price New Keynesian models. We present a resolution to the broader Mussa puzzle based on a model of segmented financial market, in which the bulk of the
nominal exchange rate risk is held by financial intermediaries and is not shared smoothly throughout the economy, emphasizing the importance of monetary transmission via the risk premium channel.
Experimental Study of Steam Generation through Solar Parabolic Trough Collector for Prospective Use in Small Industries
Authors: Sharma Amit , Sengar Namrata
Published: January 2025

The solar parabolic trough collector technology is one of the most reliable technologies in the field of solar thermal. This is due to the fact that temperatures as high as 300-400°C can be achieved using this technology. This technology is used for hot water production, process steam requirement, power generation and many more. In the present work a thermal study on a parabolic trough collector is performed to observe the range of steam temperatures to be useful for small scale industry applications. The paper presents the steam temperatures, temperature profiles for the solar collector components and the solar radiation variation over the day. On the basis of several experiments it was found that in the parabolic trough collector the maximum pressure of 221 bar and the maximum steam temperature of around 374°C is achieved. From the experimental data obtained, the variation in temperatures with solar radiation on clear and intermittent cloud cover is discussed. From the results it can be concluded that this system may be used successfully for production of hot water and steam for use in many different industries such as dairy, textile, paper, timber, bricks, chemicals, plastics etc. Hot water and steam from solar system can be used in small scale industries for rose water making, cooking, drying, sterilization, food processing etc. In this paper a design for rose water making process through parabolic trough collector has been proposed. Keywords: Solar concentrator, parabolic trough, cylindrical parabolic collector, steam, temperature profile, industry applications.
Lattice Boltzmann Solution of Transient Heat Conduction Problem in an Infinite Slab Coupled with Non-Linear Heat Generation
Authors: Sahu Abhishek , Bhowmick Shubhankar
Published: January 2025

This article reports the transient solution of a one-dimensional (1-D) heat conduction problem having temperature-dependent internal heat generation in a slab. The slab is assumed to be made of a homogeneous material with constant thermal properties. Furthermore, the boundary conditions at two extremities of the slab are considered to be suddenly imposed temperature and convective heat transfer respectively. The present investigation emphasizes the occurrence of non-linear internal heat generation within material owing to the presence of absorption phenomenon, exothermic reaction, and flow of electrons which can be foreseen in the application of hot wire anemometer, optoelectrical arrangement, etc. Lattice Boltzmann (LB) method has been effectively implemented for obtaining the solution of a non-linear governing differential equation. The investigation outcomes would be informative to the designer in the field of transient analysis of one-dimensional slabs associated with heat generation.
Fabrication of a Hand Gesture Controlled Wheelchair
Authors: Shukla Aditya , Jha Anand Kumar , Pahal Shubham , Tyagi Vishal , Solanki Ajay
Published: January 2025

Hand-gesture controlled wheelchairs help in providing mobility and safety to individuals with physical disabilities or mobility impairments. In this paper, a wheelchair have been fabricated so that it can be controlled by hand-gestures and move smoothly in all 4 directions. The main focus of our research has been to drive down the cost of such a wheelchair as compared to the ones already available in the market to enable penurious people to afford it. An accelerometer sensor is fitted in the data glove to read the hand movements and the information is conveyed to an Arduino microcontroller using wires. The Arduino board controls the pair of DC wiper motors attached at the rear end on each wheel of the wheelchair. The proposed mechanism has demonstrated precise responsiveness to users' hand gestures during trials.
Creating an Immersive Debriefing Experience Using Virtual Reality in Simulation-Based Learning
Authors: Surapaneni K. M.
Published: January 2025

No abstract available
Cracking the Code: What Drives Dental Students to Specialize? Unveiling the Impact of Final Year Performance, Gender, and Geography
Authors: De Silva D. , Ratnapreya S. , Perera I. , Weerasekera W. B. M. C. R. D. , Ratnayake D.
Published: January 2025

Purpose/Objectives: This study investigates how final year performance at dental school, gender, and geographic factors influence the likelihood of pursuing dental specialization in Sri Lanka.  Methods: We analyzed a 33-year retrospective cohort, using final year performance data from the country’s sole dental school. Data on dental specialization were obtained from the Postgraduate Institute of Medicine (PGIM), University of Colombo, covering 1990 to 2023. Data were compiled in Excel and analyzed with SPSS-26. Results: Graduates who achieved a ‘class’ in their Final BDS had 4.53 times higher odds (95% CI 3.15-6.53; p=0.001) of becoming dental specialists compared to those who did not. The mean time from graduation to specialization was 9.48 years (95% CI 8.78-10.18) for ‘class’ graduates, compared to 12.57 years (95% CI 11.25-15.89) for ‘pass’ and 12.88 years (95% CI 11.12-14.63) for ‘referred’ graduates, with these differences being statistically significant (p=0.0001). Females constituted 60% of dental specialists, with notable representation in Restorative Dentistry, Orthodontics, and Oral Pathology. Most specialists came from Colombo district, the country’s most affluent area. Conclusions: High performance in Final BDS correlates strongly with pursuing dental specialization. There is a significant female dominance among specialists and notable geographic disparities in dental school entry. These insights are valuable for dental education and workforce planning.
Effective Use of an Innovative Learning Method: A Perspective from a Sri Lankan Setting
Authors: Dayasiri K. , Kiridana V. , Mudiyanse R.
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Numerous medical schools have incorporated humanities and narrative medicine into their curricula to cultivate compassion and foster essential interpersonal abilities in medical students. These progressive educational approaches prove effective in cultivating empathy, ethical conduct, and professionalism among future healthcare practitioners. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya to study the effectiveness of an innovative learning method in enhancing active learning, critical thinking and personal professional development amongst first-year medical students. Newly graduated medical students, following exposure to a Training of the Trainer (TOT) program, served as facilitators for the training program, and insights from facilitators were gathered through audio-recorded focus group discussions. Following this, a thematic analysis was conducted to explore the interplay and correlations among the identified domains. Results: The study revealed that facilitators experienced a sense of empowerment after participating in the facilitator training program. They acknowledged that learning about learning itself was a novel experience, which they hadn't encountered during their time as students. Further, the findings indicated that junior medical graduates can successfully undergo training to facilitate a combination of five innovative active learning methods aimed to boost critical thinking and personal professional development among fresh medical students, resulting in high levels of acceptance and satisfaction among the facilitators. Conclusion: The results of this study support the idea that training facilitators can improve their skills in delivering programs that promote critical thinking and active learning among first-year medical graduates. Feedback from newly graduated medical professionals acting as facilitators indicated that with enthusiasm and motivation, junior healthcare workers could be successfully trained to facilitate in settings with limited resources.
Kicking the Tires: Enhancing OSCE Preparedness through Strategic Dry Runs and Simulating Extremes
Authors: Leung F. H. , Forward A. , Gilchrist C. , Bismilla Z.
Published: January 2025

Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs) are a key part of medical education. They test a wide range of clinical skills in a structured way, ensuring students are ready for real-world challenges (Lewis et al., 2017). To make these exams effective, pre-exam practice sessions, called dry runs, are critical (Committee on Simulation, 2016). These sessions help identify problems, improve organization, and better prepare standardized patients (SPs) for student interactions. This article suggests using a new approach in OSCE dry runs: simulating extreme student performances. These simulations show both excellent and poor examples of clinical skills. This prepares SPs for a wide range of interactions and helps ensure a fair assessment process.
Meeting the Explosive Demands of AI with Chiplet Architectures
Authors: Kumar Arvind
Published: January 2025

The era of generative AI is accompanied by an unprecedented increase in compute, memory, and bandwidth requirements of AI workloads. Chiplet architectures and advanced packaging offer a promising path to meeting these demands through much more tightly integrated compute and memory units, enabling higher compute densities and bandwidths with lower latency and power. Heterogeneous integration coupled with open interface standards can also enable targeted architectures to accelerate specific use cases through co-packaging of diverse chiplets from different sources. I will discuss how IBM’s deep investments in AI and advanced packaging can lead to new opportunities through the emerging chiplet ecosystem.
Delivering the Full Benefits of Maskless Lithography and Adaptive Patterning with Comprehensive Design Automation
Authors: Gunde Gaurang
Published: January 2025

Producing design files ready for manufacturing involves numerous tools and different workflows which causes several challenges. With many steps and intermediate files, manual approaches to flow management are likely to miss updating a file and don’t scale for many designs. While the EDA industry offers some automated workflows, manual data imports and processing steps are still quite common. Moreover, when designing for Adaptive Patterning with maskless lithography, a full panel or wafer layout is required, not just a single package. Fully digital exposure without a mask offers the incredible ability to quickly adjust designs based on fab results, allowing an iterative and rapid feedback cycle. However, automation beyond traditional EDA is required to truly take advantage of this capability.

This paper will explore Deca’s comprehensive design automation system, called AP Studio, that delivers fast, reliable, and unified flows from layout to production ready artifacts. This system interfaces with various EDA layout tools, exports to a standardized format, performs layout post-processing, generates wafer and panel layouts, prepares the layout for Adaptive Patterning, and produces recipe setup data for fab equipment. Once through the flow, the design can be simulated with AP Engine for verification. Unique aspects of the flow will be presented, including how per-wafer OCR and 2D codes and per-package 2D codes can be imaged directly into metal layers. This extensive design automation not only solves longstanding challenges, but also empowers designers with the full benefits of maskless lithography.
New Innovative Way to Verify Package Connectivity
Authors: Locke Justin , Walsh Mike , Hou Jin
Published: January 2025

The heterogeneous integration of multiple ICs in a single package along with high performance/bandwidth memory is critical for many high performance computing applications. Such designs result in complex connectivity with many hundreds of thousands of connections after everything has been heterogeneously integrated and packaged. Such designs make it extremely challenging to verify the correctness of the connections. The traditional way to verify the connections requires a lot of manpower and time and is either not exhaustive or too late in the process as its typically done after implementation is complete. This paper will introduce a new way to functionally verify the packaging connectivity using formal verification that can exhaustively verify all interconnections between the IC blocks. The flow is automatic for all steps from creating connectivity spec to verify packaging output connectivity. The automatic parallel algorithms on compute grid can verify huge numbers of connections in minutes even seconds. The script for the flow is simple and only takes a few minutes to setup. Once the script is ready, it can be reused for different packaging projects.
Soldering Defects on Immersion Tin and the Impact of the Tin-Oxide Layer
Authors: Schafsteller Britta , Schachtner Bernhard , Lee Kenneth , Mertens Hubertus , Ramos Gustavo
Published: January 2025

Immersion tin is a final finish highly accepted in the automotive industry and finds increasingly application in the package substrate industry. As due to the immersion reaction the plating thickness of tin is limited, there are concerns that due to the formation of the intermetallic phase during the reflow process, the solderability of the tin layer might be affected. During the assembly process and the formation of the intermetallic phase the free tin is consumed and only islands of free tin remain after the second reflow cycle. Additionally, an oxide layer is formed, and the homogeneity and thickness of the oxide layer is impacted by the reflow conditions and the overall process cleanliness. The interaction of intermetallic phase formation, the amount of remaining free tin and the tin oxide layer will define the soldering performance of the tin layer and the risk of the occurrence of soldering defects. In this paper different failure modes and connected failure mechanisms will be explained. The tin oxide layer is identified to play a crucial role in this interaction and factors are investigated, which impact the oxide layer formation and homogeneity. Various methods are presented to determine the oxide layer thickness and different approaches are studied to modify it. Results are presented that show that with a dedicated solution to modify the oxide layer the risk for solderability defects on immersion tin can be reduced.
Ejtm3 experiences after ChatGPT and other AI approaches: values, risks, countermeasures
Authors: Fanò-Illic Giorgio , Coraci Daniele , Maccarone Maria Chiara , Masiero Stefano , Quadrelli Marco , Morra Aldo , Ravara Barbara , Pond Amber , Forni Riccardo , Gargiulo Paolo
Published: January 2025

We invariably hear that Artificial Intelligence (AI), a rapidly evolving technology, does not just creatively assemble known knowledge. We are told that AI learns, processes and creates, starting from fixed points to arrive at innovative solutions. In the case of scientific work, AI can generate data without ever having entered a laboratory, (i.e., blatantly plagiarizing the existing literature, a despicable old trick). How does an editor of a scientific journal recognize when she or he is faced with something like this? The solution is for editors and referees to rigorously evaluate the track records of submitting authors and are doing. For example, false color evaluations of 2D and 3D CT and MRI images have been used to validate functional electrical stimulation for degenerated denervated muscle and a home Full-Body In-Bed Gym program. These have been recently published in Ejtm and other journals. The editors and referees of Ejtm can exclude the possibility that the images were invented by ChatGPT. Why? Because they know the researchers: Marco Quadrelli, Aldo Morra, Daniele Coraci, Paolo Gargiulo and their collaborators as well! Artificial intelligence is not banned by the EJTM, but when submitting their manuscripts to previous and to a new Thematic Section dedicated to AI in Translational Mobility Medicine authors must openly declare whether they have used artificial intelligence, of what type and for what purposes. This will not avoid risks of plagiarism or worse, but it will better establish possible liabilities.
Beliefs about HIV cure: A qualitative study of people living with HIV in Soweto, South Africa
Authors: Laher Fatima , Mahlangu Naledi , Sibiya Mbalenhle
Published: January 2025

Background: Rare cases of HIV cure exist. Clinical trials of HIV cure are also underway. However, little is documented about how potential cures are perceived by African people living with HIV, although they are key stakeholders.Objectives: We explored knowledge, beliefs, and experiences about HIV cure in Soweto, South Africa.Method: We conducted qualitative research with five stratified focus groups (N = 49). Consenting adults living with HIV were eligible. Facilitators asked participants about their knowledge of HIV cure, experience of purported cures, and beliefs about cure possibilities. Transcripts from audio recordings were thematically analysed.Results: Participants had knowledge of the concept of cure as eradication, not remission. Three main themes emerged about possible HIV cures. Firstly, hope and scepticism: people feared unequal access to technologies. Secondly, cultural and conventional approaches: there were beliefs in traditional healers, scepticism towards culturally purported cures (e.g. imbiza herbal tonic), and a desire for medical cures to obviate pill burdens. Thirdly, anticipated socio-behavioural effects: beliefs existed that cures might improve happiness, reduce emotional burdens of disclosure, facilitate HIV-free generations, increase risk behaviours, and reduce health checks, but not change societal attitudes to HIV.Conclusion: In Soweto, South Africa, people living with HIV hope for medical technologies – such as cure and long-acting treatments – to relieve the biopsychosocial burdens of chronic treatment. Despite treatment knowledge, some people try culturally purported cures for HIV. In HIV cure trials, consent language should avoid ‘cure’ when remission is meant. Care should address pill burden, and counselling should address sex, substances, exercise, and nutrition.
Anthropometric, Bioelectric, and Visceral Fat Indices to Predict Hypertension in Rural Rohtak, Haryana
Authors: Vashisht B. M. , Saha Arup , Pratibha  , Jyotsana  , Kumar Anil
Published: January 2025

Background:

Hypertension, which is responsible for many comorbidities like stroke and chronic heart disease, has a prevalence of 29.8% in India. They are many obesity indices; bioelectric and visceral fat indices are seen to be associated with hypertension. The region-specific cutoffs of these indices are important to make amenable policy decisions for the control of noncommunicable diseases. This study aimed to examine the various anthropometric, bioelectric, and visceral fat indicators as predictors of hypertension in adults of rural Rohtak, Haryana.

Methods:

An observational cross-sectional study was conducted among 800 adults (18–60 years), who were permanent residents of Chiri Block. Sociodemographic, socioeconomic, dietary, and morbidity data were collected, and measurements for various anthropometric and fat indices were taken using standardized methods. Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis was used to calculate the area under the curve (95% confidence interval) for validity and to estimate the optimal cutoff values of anthropometric and other indices.

Results:

The overall prevalence of obesity (WHO Asia Pacific criteria) was 40.60% (39.60% males, 41.30% females), whereas the prevalence of hypertension (AHA 2017) was 30.90% (34.6% males, 21.4% females). Waist circumference (WC) (0.736), visceral fat level (VFL) (0.723), and waist height ratio (WHtR) (0.717) had the highest area under curve values. Body mass index (BMI) had the highest sensitivity (69.9%), whereas body fat percentage (BFP) had the highest specificity (89.9%).

Discussion:

WC and WHtR have proven to be superior indicators than BMI. VFL and BFP are emerging indicators, and further exploration needs to be done toward the utilization of these indices directly at the community level for screening purposes.
Knowledge and Practices Regarding e-waste and its management among adults living in Siliguri: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Alapan , Mukherjee Abhijit
Published: January 2025

Background:

India is projected to be one of the largest consumers of electronics and producers of e-waste in the world. There is a dearth of literature regarding the knowledge and practices of the general Indian population regarding e-waste. The present study was conducted to assess the knowledge and practices of the general populace of Siliguri regarding electronic waste.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted among the households of Siliguri, West Bengal. Consenting adults were interviewed using the questionnaire. A multi-stage sampling strategy was employed for the study to obtain a sample of 375. A researcher-administered questionnaire was used to collect data.

Results:

The mean age of the head of the household was 50.2 ± 13.6 years. Most of the households were nuclear families (56.5%), and 34.4% of them belonged to the upper middle socioeconomic class. The households possessed a median of five devices. It was seen that 93.4% knew that e-waste was harmful to their health. The commonest practice regarding the disposal of e-waste was selling these items to recyclers (47.5%). However, 29.3% of the households reported that due to them not knowing what to do with broken electronics, they stored them at home. A majority (84.8%) of the households reported that they did not use any personal protective equipment while handling e-waste.

Conclusion:

While the households assessed knew about the harm of e-waste, their knowledge about e-waste disposal was varied. Furthermore, there was a knowledge-practice gap, leading to them either storing e-waste at home or having other improper handling and disposal practices.
Transvaginal natural orifice specimen extraction surgery in simple nephrectomy
Authors: Kudunthail Jeena R. , Sharma Kartik , Bhirud Deepak Prakash , Singh Mahendra , Choudhary Gautam Ram , Navriya Shiv Charan , Sandhu Arjun Singh
Published: January 2025

Introduction:

Natural orifice specimen extraction surgery (NOSES), particularly transvaginal NOSES, is an innovative approach in laparoscopic urological surgery. This study aims to assess the feasibility, safety, and outcomes of transvaginal NOSES in women undergoing laparoscopic simple nephrectomy in an Indian cohort.

Methods:

A prospective observational study was conducted from September 2022 to May 2024 in the department of urology, including 15 women with prior vaginal deliveries undergoing simple nephrectomy. Exclusion criteria were vaginal scarring, previous pelvic surgeries, active intravaginal infections, cervical neoplasia, unresolved pelvic inflammation, and patient refusal. Parameters assessed included operative time, specimen extraction time, blood loss, postoperative recovery metrics, Female Sexual Function Index, and Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire scores at the baseline and at 3 months.

Results:

The mean age of the patients was 45.73 years. The average operative time, including the specimen extraction was 127.8 min and the average extraction time was 30.13 min. None required conversion to open surgery, and the average blood loss was 68.0 mL with no intraoperative transfusions. The postoperative recovery was rapid, with milestones achieved within 1 day, and the average hospital stay was 2.2 days. Pain scores were low (Visual Analog Scale: 2.87 at 24 h and 1.47 at 48 h). The complication rate was 6.67%, with one case of vaginal bleeding which was managed conservatively. Postoperative pelvic floor and sexual functions were preserved without significant adverse effects.

Conclusion:

Transvaginal NOSES is a feasible and safe technique for nephrectomy, offering reduced postoperative pain, minimal blood loss, and rapid recovery, enhancing surgical outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Modulatory Effects of Gingerol in Cancer Cell Growth Through Activation and Suppression of Signal Pathways in Cancer Cell Growth Systemic Review
Authors: Noor J Juvaid , Sindhu R. , Jothi A Banu , Prabu D , Mohan M Raj , Dhamodhar Dinesh , Fathima Lubna , Haripriya R
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACT

Background:

Gingerol is a traditional medicinal herb used to treat various cancers. The current review aims to explore the modulatory effects of gingerol on cancer cell growth through the activation and suppression of key signaling pathways involved in cancer progression.

Methods:

A literature search was conducted on the databases such as PubMed, Cochrane, Google Scholar, and Embase. The inclusion criteria for the study were randomized control trials conducted during 2011–2023. Seven articles were selected for inclusion in the systematic review.

Results:

There was clinically significant evidence due to intervention in changes of nausea-related quality of life (QoL), overall chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting-related QoL, delayed nausea severity, fatigue, low incidence of malnutrition, and a high compliance rate. The findings of the study suggest that 6-gingerol hinders cell viability and induces cell death in prostate cancer cells, which is dependent on time and dose. 6-Gingerol could be developed as a complementary therapy to cisplatin in the management of ovarian cancer, offering a strategy to enhance therapeutic outcomes and minimize toxicity.

Conclusions:

This systematic review highlights the potential of ginger in malignancy treatment due to its ability to activate and suppress various signaling pathways. The review underscores the need for further in-depth studies and more clinical trials in humans to better understand the precise mechanisms and to validate the efficacy of ginger.
Comparative Study of Noncatheterized and Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections by ESBL-Producing Gram-Negative Bacilli in an Urban Tertiary-Care Center, Salem, Tamil Nadu
Authors: Revathi KT , Rajan Reena , Mathavi S , Rao AV Raghavendra
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACT

Background:

Urinary tract infections are frequently caused by Gram-negative bacilli, and timely detection and management of resistant strains and their antimicrobial susceptibilities are crucial.

Methods:

A six-month study examined Gram-negative bacilli from catheterized and noncatheterized patients, assessing antibiotic susceptibility, minimum inhibitory concentration, and Extended spectrum beta lactamase (ESBL) production genes using real-time Polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Results:

Out of 72 isolates, 55.56% were ESBLs, with 65.0% from catheterized and 35.0% from noncatheterized samples. Out of 21 ESBL isolates, 47.62% had cefotaximase M (CTX-M) gene, while 4.76% had sulfhydril variant (SHV) and oxacillinase (OXA) 10/11 genes. Coproduction of CTX-M and SHV was observed.

Conclusion:

The study reveals multiple ESBL genes co-expression in clinical isolates from catheterized and noncatheterized patients, emphasizing the need for regular monitoring and antibiotic policy development.
Protective Effect of Triphala Mediated by H2S Signaling Pathway in LPS-Induced RAW Macrophages
Authors: Shanker Shyam Sundar , Dasgupta Tiasha , Hussain Sharmila , Annapoorni H , Tamizhselvi Ramasamy
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

MacrophagesHydrogen sulfide (H2 S), an endogenously produced gasotransmitter, is a wellknown inflammatory agent production successfully controlled with triphala in macrophages.

Materials and method:

The ELISA analysis revealed that triphala extracts suppress the protein expression of NFκB (p65) and downregulation of the CSE gene expression. Moreover, in the presence of propargylglycine (PAG) the expression of NFκB and CSE gene was further reduced.

Results:

These results suggest that triphala could be a potent antiinflammatory effect that could be used for the treatment of many inflammatory disorders, including periimplantitis.
Severe Hypersensitivity Reactions with Oral Manifestations: Case Reports on Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and DRESS Syndrome
Authors: Al-Bayati Sura A. A. Fuoad
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACT

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS) syndrome are rare conditions, representing severe hypersensitivity reactions with significant oral presentations. SJS is an uncommon but severe variant of erythema multiforme, presenting skin and mucosal eruptions that can be potentially fatal. DRESS syndrome, similarly, involves a severe hypersensitivity reaction characterized by fever, rash, and organ involvement. DRESS syndrome is a rare but severe drug-induced hypersensitivity reaction characterized by fever, rash, eosinophilia, and internal organ involvement. The condition often presents with elevated liver enzymes and systemic symptoms that necessitate prompt diagnosis and treatment. This report discusses a case of DRESS syndrome in a 41-year-old patient, highlighting the clinical presentation, investigations, differential diagnosis, and treatment approach. Both conditions require prompt diagnosis and treatment, often involving hospitalization. This report discusses two cases of severe hypersensitivity reactions with oral manifestations.
Vascular Inflammatory Genes as Predictors of Preeclampsia: A Systematic Review
Authors: Pogula Asha L. , Muthulakshmi R. , Thokali Srikanth , Pragathi Yatham , Periasamy Panneerselvam
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACT

Background:

Preeclampsia, a condition causing new-onset hypertension and proteinuria after 20 weeks of gestation, is a significant cause of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. The pathogenesis of preeclampsia is complex, involving an interplay of vascular inflammation and angiogenic imbalance. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to elucidate the role of key vascular inflammatory candidate genes—VEGF, TNF-α, IL-10, and LPL—in the onset of preeclampsia.

Methodology:

We conducted a comprehensive literature search across PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases, identifying case-control and cohort studies that examined the association between these genetic variants and preeclampsia.

Results:

Our meta-analysis reveals significant associations between preeclampsia and polymorphisms in the VEGF, TNF-α, IL-10, and LPL genes, with pooled odds ratios indicating increased risk for the VEGF -2578C>A, VEGF -1154G>A, TNF-α -308G>A, IL-10 -819C>T, and LPL Ser447Ter variants.

Conclusion:

These findings suggest that genetic predispositions in vascular inflammatory pathways may contribute to the development of preeclampsia, offering potential targets for early detection and therapeutic intervention. Further research is warranted to explore the molecular mechanisms by which these genetic variants influence the pathogenesis of preeclampsia and to develop targeted prevention strategies.
Comparative Evaluation of the New Angled Miniplate (Banana Plate) with the Conventional Miniplate for Management of Mandibular Angle Fracture
Authors: Bhavsar Keval , Sood Ramita , Mehta Tarang , Ludhwani Arpana , Makwana Sanjay , Attur Shylaja K. , Bhavsar Kinjal K.
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Mandibular angle fractures (MAFs) are divisive and have led to debate in terms of treatment. The study evaluated the new angled miniplate (banana plate) with the conventional miniplate for management of MAFs.

Patients and Methods:

The study included 53 patients of MAFs, 26 treated with the conventional miniplate (control group) and 27 with the angled miniplate (study group). The patients were followed up and evaluated for 6 months for mouth opening, bite force, and complications.

Results:

A longer operating time was noted in the study group. The mouth opening and bite force were higher in the study group with fewer postoperative complications.

Conclusion:

The new angled miniplate mimics the angle of the mandible and offers better tridimensional stability, fewer complications, and improved stability.
Evaluation of the Anticandidal Effect of Medicinal Plant Extracts to Drug Resistant Candida Albicans Isolates from Type Two Diabetic patients with Stage Three Periodontitis
Authors: Prabhakaran Jayachandran V. , Varghese Nibu , Rupesh S , Thomas Annie Susan , Sameer KM , Thomas Nebu George
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACT

Objectives:

To assess the anticandidal efficacy of nine medicinal plants to drug resistant Candida albicans isolates from diabetic patients with chronic periodontitis. A comparison was done with chlorhexidine gluconate.

Methods:

Isolates from the periodontal pockets of 121 diabetics with severe periodontitis was obtained. Sensitivity to four antifungal antibiotics was assessed by disc diffusion method. Anticandidal activity of cold ethanol and hot aqueous extracts of nine plants were evaluated by well diffusion method. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined by microtube broth dilution method.

Results:

C. albicans was found to be the predominant species. None of the isolates extended resistance to amphotericin B. Aqueous and ethanol extracts of Punica granatum, Terminalia bellerica, Terminalia chebula extended notable anticandidal efficacy, and the ethanol extracts were more active. Chlorhexidine extended better efficacy than the plant extracts.

Conclusions:

C
albicans is the prevalent yeast among diabetics with periodontitis. Presence of multidrug resistant for C. albicans is a challenge. P. granatum, T. bellerica and T. chebula can be explored for the development of safer anticandidal agents.
Assessing the Impact of Skin Tone on Tooth Shade Selection: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Rai Priyanka , Anusha Gattu , Rathore Kiran Kunwar , Kumar Vimal , Rajitha Reddy K. , Kodati Sanjana
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACT

Background:

The role of skin tone in determining tooth shade preferences is crucial in aesthetic dentistry. This study aims to evaluate the impact of skin tone on tooth shade selection by comparing preferences between dental professionals and laypersons.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 100 participants, including 50 dental specialists (prosthodontists and endodontists) and 50 laypersons (teachers, engineers, and business owners). Participants were presented with a randomized slideshow of 15 modified images featuring a woman with varying skin tones (fair, medium, dark) and tooth shades (from 00 to 04). Each image was rated on a scale from 1 (Very unattractive) to 4 (Very attractive).

Results:

There were no statistically significant differences in the ratings of dental appearance across different skin tones between dental professionals and laypersons. For fair skin, medium skin, and dark skin tones, the mean scores assigned by both groups were statistically indistinguishable (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:

The study indicates that both dental professionals and laypersons converge in their tooth shade preferences related to skin tone, despite their different backgrounds. This suggests a shared perspective on dental aesthetics and highlights the importance of aligning aesthetic treatments with general preferences.