bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A predator-prey model with cooperative hunting in the predator and group defense in the prey
Authors: Du Yanfei , Niu Ben , Wei Junjie
Published: December 2021

In this paper we propose a predator-prey model with a non-differentiable functional response in which the prey exhibits group defense and the predator exhibits cooperative hunting. There is a separatrix curve dividing the phase portrait. The species with initial population above the separatrix result in extinction of prey in finite time, and the species with initial population below it can coexist, oscillate sustainably or leave the prey surviving only. Detailed bifurcation analysis is carried out to explore the effect of cooperative hunting in the predator and aggregation in the prey on the existence and stability of the coexistence state as well as the dynamics of system. The model undergoes transcritical bifurcation, Hopf bifurcation, homoclinic (heteroclinic) bifurcation, saddle-node bifurcation, and Bogdanov-Takens bifurcation, and through numerical simulations it is found that it possesses rich dynamics including bubble loop of limit cycles, and open ended branch of periodic orbits disappearing through a homoclinic cycle or a loop of heteroclinic orbits. Also, a continuous transition of different types of Hopf branches are investigated which forms a global picture of Hopf bifurcation in the model.
The interactive effects of fertilizer and water stress on plant growth, leaf gas exchange and nutrient uptake on strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa, Duch)
Authors: Yenni  ,   Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia, Ibrahim Mohd Hafiz , Nulit Rosimah , Sakimin Siti Zaharah ,   Indonesian Citrus and Subtropical Fruits Research Institute (ICSFRI), 65327, Batu, East Java, Indonesia,   Department of Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
Published: December 2021

Strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa Duch) has a large number of nutrients, which are useful for human health. In Indonesia, water stress is one of the climate changes that affect the growth and quality of strawberry. Therefore, fast recovery can be crucial to adjusting crops to water stress. Additional fertilizers can alleviate the negative impact of water stress. The experiment was carried out to determine the best fertilizer sources for the growth, leaf gas exchange, and nutrient uptake of strawberry under water-stressed conditions in April 2019–August 2019. The experiment was arranged in a factorial randomized completely block design (RCBD) with three replications and four fertilizer sources (P1 = without fertilizer, P2 = 92:90:90 kg/ha Nitrogen:Phosphorus:Potassium (NPK) fertilizer, P3 = 20 kg/ha goat dung fertilizer, P4 = 46:45:45 kg/ha NPK fertilizer + 10 kg/ha goat dung fertilizer) and water stress levels (W1 = daily irrigation 100% field capacity (FC); W2 = 2 days irrigation interval (Ⅱ) 75% FC; W3 = 6 Ⅱ 75% FC). It was observed that the interaction of different water stress and fertilizer sources had a significant effect on all parameters except in the total sugar of strawberry fruits. The results indicate that plant growth, leaf gas exchange and nutrient uptake decreased under water stress conditions whereas total proline, total sugar, and water use efficiency (WUE) enhanced. The maximum value of plant height, leaves number, shoot-root fresh weight, shoot-root dry weight, photosynthesis rate, chlorophyll content, nitrogen content and phosphorus content were obtained from the application of 46:45:45 kg/ha NPK fertilizer + 10 kg/ha goat dung fertilizer at 2 days Ⅱ 75% FC. Application of NPK and goat dung fertilizers increased the growth and leaf gas exchange under water stress conditions. Plants that were not fertilized had the lowest growth compared to those with fertilizers.
$ \bar{\partial} $-equation look at analytic Hilbert's zero-locus theorem
Authors: Lv Xiaofen ,   Department of Mathematics, Huzhou University, Huzhou, Zhejiang 313000, China, Xiao Jie , Yuan Cheng ,   Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Memorial University, St. John's, NL A1C 5S7, Canada,   School of Mathematics and Statistics, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510520, China
Published: December 2021

Stemming from the Pythagorean Identity $ \sin^2z+\cos^2z = 1 $ and Hörmander's $ L^2 $-solution of the Cauchy-Riemann's equation $ \bar{\partial}u = f $ on $ \mathbb C $, this article demonstrates a corona-type principle which exists as a somewhat unexpected extension of the analytic Hilbert's Nullstellensatz on $ \mathbb C $ to the quadratic Fock-Sobolev spaces on $ \mathbb C $.
The role of financial resources in SMEs' financial and environmental performance; the mediating role of green innovation
Authors: Khan Rizwan Ullah ,   Graduate School of Business, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Gelugor, Penang, Malaysia, Arif Hina , Sahar Noor E , Ali Arif , Abbasi Munir A. ,   Institute of Business Administration, University of Sindh, Jamshoro, Pakistan,   Benazir School of Business, Benazir Bhutto Shaheed University, Karachi, Pakistan,   Muhammad Ali Jinnah University, Karachi, Pakistan
Published: December 2021

The current study investigates the influence of financial resources on environmental and financial performance with the mediating role of green practices (innovation) in manufacturing firms of the emerging economy, Pakistan. The research model and its proposed hypothesis was using 294 manufacturing firms' samples, for fruitful insights, the hypothesis was tested through a structured equation model using Smart PLS 3. Our results exhibited a positive and significant impact of financial resources on financial performance but not on environmental performance. However, green innovation fully mediates the relationship between financial resources and financial performance, while partially mediate the relationship between financial resources and environmental performance. Considering our insight, we suggest to the government that financially support the SMEs sector because they have a lack of tangible and intangible resources due to small size, and to easily adapt the green practices.
A Scenario of the Formative E-assessment Based on the ARCS Model: What Is the Impact on Student Motivation in Educational Context?
Authors: Lajane Halima , Arai Mounir , Gouifrane Rachid , Qaisar Rabia , El machtani El Idrissi Wissam , Chemsi Ghizlane , Radid Mohamed
Published: December 2021

The purpose of this research is to measure the motivation of nursing students, option: multi-skilled nurse (n=58), following their participation in an e-learning activity in the form of formative quizzes. The pedagogical scenario was based on Keller's ARCS motivation model.

Data were collected through the IMMS questionnaire adopted from the ARCS model.

The results show that the students were motivated by the e-learning activity (mean score = 4.22±, 51091), and that the motivation variables studied correlated positively with the overall motivation score (p-value < .001).

Through this research, it was found that an instructional scenario based on the ARCS model had a positive impact on students' motivation for e-learning, thus encouraging allied health educators to design educational tools that can motivate nursing students.
A Hybrid Machine Learning Framework for Predicting Students’ Performance in Virtual Learning Environment
Authors: Evangelista Edmund
Published: December 2021

Virtual Learning Environments (VLE), such as Moodle and Blackboard, store vast data to help identify students' performance and engagement. As a result, researchers have been focusing their efforts on assisting educational institutions in providing machine learning models to predict at-risk students and improve their performance. However, it requires an efficient approach to construct a model that can ultimately provide accurate predictions. Consequently, this study proposes a hybrid machine learning framework to predict students' performance using eight classification algorithms and three ensemble methods (Bagging, Boosting, Voting) to determine the best-performing predictive model. In addition, this study used filter-based and wrapper-based feature selection techniques to select the best features of the dataset related to students' performance. The obtained results reveal that the ensemble methods recorded higher predictive accuracy when compared to single classifiers. Furthermore, the accuracy of the models improved due to the feature selection techniques utilized in this study.
Deep Learning Technology Based on Intelligent Teaching in Social Psychology Courses
Authors: Li Dan
Published: December 2021

Social psychology is a comprehensive course which is an interdisciplinary of sociology and psychology. Most colleges and universities have currently taken social psychology as a general course to popularize psychological knowledge to students, which has great significance to cultivating their quality. Previous teaching did not combine this course with social needs, the optimization of students’ psychological needs and enhancement of their abilities to solve problems, on the contrary, pure theoretical interpretation was the focus, resulting in students’ lacking of proactivity. Therefore, a new teaching mode for improvement is urgent. Based on deep learning theory and comprehensively taking teaching environment, teaching resources and technical strategy support into consideration, and intelligence as the core, the paper has designed an intelligent teaching mode including intelligent preview, intelligent classroom, intelligent promotion and intelligent evaluation. Meanwhile, combined with courses of social psychology, video, audio and text teaching resources and multimedia courseware, multimedia resources were integrated, and problem discussion-based collaborative learning was adopted for teaching. To accurately evaluate the teaching effect under the intelligent teaching environment, guided by the appeal of intelligent teaching and based on analysis of accurate teaching objectives, the paper has established an accurate teaching evaluation index system, aiming at providing an idea for "How to evaluate the effect of accurate teaching in the intelligent teaching environment". At last, the paper has applied the new teaching mode into the practice of social psychology, finding that the new mode can stimulate students’ proactivity, improve their performance, which is worth promotion.
Internship Effect Prediction for Physical Education Majors Based on Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Yang Bo
Published: December 2021

Professional internship offers college students a golden chance to apply their theoretical knowledge to practice. Through internship, physical education (PE) majors can match the professional knowledge and skills learned at school with the competencies required by actual jobs. The relevant studies at home and abroad mainly attempt to improve the internship effect. This paper explores the influence of the diversity of job competencies on the internship effect of PE majors, and establishes a prediction model based on artificial neural network (ANN). Firstly, an evaluation index system (EIS) was constructed for the internship quality of PE majors, and a table was prepared for four types of internship jobs for PE majors, as well as their core competences. Then, the sample data for quality evaluation of PE majors’ internship were preprocessed and subjected to feature extraction, in the light of their sequential property. After that, a prediction model was proposed for the internship quality of PE majors, along with its optimization algorithm. The proposed model was proved effective through experiments.
Smart Home Multi-Factor Authentication Using Face Recognition and One-Time Password on Smartphone
Authors: Tok Yen Xin , Katuk Norliza , Che Mohamed Arif Ahmad Suki
Published: December 2021

Recently, the adoption of smart home technology has been on the rise and becoming a trend for home residents. The development of Internet-of-Things (IoT) technology drives the smart home authentication system with biometric systems such as facial recognition, fingerprint, and voice control techniques. In the context of homeowners, security is always the primary concern. However, conventional home security and the existing smart home security system have some limitations. These techniques use single-factor authentication, which provides limited protection for home security. Therefore, this project proposed a design for smart home multi-factor authentication using facial recognition and a one-time password sent to smartphones for a home security system. Rapid application development was the methodology for conducting this study. A usability evaluation suggested that the proposed smart home multi-factor authentication is acceptable, but some usability issues can be improved in the future.
Optimization of the Energy Consumption of Connected Objects
Authors: Moutaib Mohammed , Ahajjam Tarik , Fattah Mohammed , Farhaoui Youssef , Aghoutane Badraddine , El Bekkali Moulhime
Published: December 2021

The IoT is a growing new approach that has been defined as a global network of devices and machines capable of reliably communicating with each other without human intervention. It is one of the essential technologies in any field, such as medicine and attracts great attention in the future. It is applied in several areas that have achieved success. However, the power and the addition of connected objects to technology is based on the fact that its objects can establish several tasks: communicate, analyze, process and manage data in a parallel manner, which is very difficult in terms of energy consumption. Therefore, the problems related to consumption slow down considerably the evolution and the fast deployment of this high technology.Therefore, it is necessary to create a new lightweight and robust mechanism, which ensures the minimization of the consumption of the objects and makes these objects efficient and less costly while being adapted to the capacities of objects and technologies.That is why our paper aims to address this significant problem and present the role of energy consumption, which is essential in deploying successful IoT products and services and presenting the IoT categories for applications. First, we propose a method that minimizes energy consumption and meets our need through three essential steps: firstly, to study the existing methods to minimize energy consumption.  Next, based on these methods, we create a new concept using the data flows. Finally, we implement our solution in an intelligent parking lot to carry out our approach and describe our design steps and conclude with the result of our study and make an interpretation that summarizes our work.
Dynamics of Gender-Specific Behaviors in the Digital Educational Environment
Authors: Badjanova Jeļena , Iliško Dzintra , Ignatjeva Svetlana , Nesterova Margarita
Published: December 2021

During the social distancing, an increasing number of people use communication applications, various types of digital tools and programs. Various video conferencing platforms are regularly used in the educational environment. The study presents the analyses how intensive is the use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) in the educational environment and how it can change cognitive-behavioral gender differences. This is particularly important to pay a special attention to the analysis of gender as a dynamic category, to take into account the processes of gender socialization and transformation of gender identification in the changing social environment. The research methods also included a set of additional methods, such as a focus group on different aspects of gender-specific behavior in the digital learning environment, putting together collages, as well as the method of the unfinished sentence related to the impact of ICT on teachers' professional development and well-being. In the course of the study, it was recognised that the design of social models of male and female gender-specific behaviour includes more than the basic gender identity and gender stability: in today's society, there is a multiplicity of views on the similarities and differences of gender-specific behaviours, and a rapid change in the accepted social guidelines and behavioural patterns is in progress, socio-cultural norms that define the psychological characteristics of women and men, their patterns of behaviour.
What Are the Potential Impacts of a Global Health Crisis on Economic Inequalities in Some Countries?
Authors: Yıldırım Ahmet Eren
Published: December 2021

This study investigates the relationship between the COVID-19 crisis and economic inequalities in some developed and developing countries. Many institutions, like OECD, ILO, and UNDP, have released several reports deal with the relationship between COVID-19 and different kinds of inequalities. These reports generally emphasize the same problem. This study includes some indicators about the situation of education and gender inequalities in OECD countries. These indicators purely reveal that COVID-19 has negative effects on both education and gender inequalities in most of developed and developing countries. The main contribution of the study is to point out the importance of recovery policies the cover the inequality problems.
Eudaemonic Design to Achieve Well-Being at Work, Wherever That May Be
Authors: Mikus Jenna , Rieger Janice , Grant-Smith Deanna
Published: December 2021

The concept of eudaemonia originates from neo-Aristotelian philosophy and is associated with human flourishing. Self-determination theory, a means to attain eudaemonia, is examined here as a foundational approach to drive Eudaemonic Design--a novel design strategy that aims to achieve holistic physical, mental, and social health, or eudaemonic well-being. This chapter advances Eudaemonic Design as an architectural and organizational approach to create healthful work environments that support employee and business flourishing. The authors argue that the importance of adopting Eudaemonic Design has grown in need and complexity as work is (re)shaped by the constraints and opportunities presented by the pandemic. By contrasting dominant pre-COVID-19 Work from Office expectations against the post-COVID-19 Work from Anywhere model, this chapter explores the application of Eudaemonic Design to deliver holistic workplace well-being, rather than single variable health and wellness alone, now and into the post-COVID-19 future of work.
NOM-035-STPS-2018
Authors: Martinez-Balderrama Raul , Jacobo-Galicia Gabriela Jacobo , Ramírez- Barreto María Elizabeth , Paz-Delgadillo Judith M. , Cruz-Sotelo Samantha E.
Published: December 2021

Looking at the structure of NOM-035-STPS-2018, there is an assumption that there are areas of opportunity to improve the implementation of the standard. Thus, the purpose of this research is to identify through a review whether there are areas of opportunity that can improve the implementation of NOM-035. For the review, articles addressing the psychosocial risk factors evaluation were selected and analyzed. Four topics of discussion were identified: impact of psychosocial risk factors, policy and regulations, management systems, and evaluation of psychosocial risk factors. Subsequently, a synthesis was made, and it was found that there are three areas of opportunity to improve NOM-035-STPS-2018: it does not have a risk management system, its instruments do not present evidence of statistical validity, and the instruments do not take into account indicators of consequence.
New Model to Promote Well-Being in Work Areas of an Aerospace Industry Facility in Mexicali
Authors: Gonzalez Carlos Raul Navarro , Ceballos-Corral Juan , Vargas-Bernal Olivia Yessenia , Badilla Gustavo Lopez , Paz-Delgadillo Judith M.
Published: December 2021

This investigation was made to evaluate the health and well-being of workers who made activities in the manufacturing processes of an aerospace industry installed in the city of Mexicali and based on the evidence presented in certain stages of a production line. The cost-benefit of applying ergonomic methods was analyzed, developing a descriptive model, which involved important aspects. Said aspects analyzed were (1) work methods, (2) training of employees in the operational area, (3) evaluation of times and movements of industrial operations, and (4) working conditions as the relationship of workers with supervisors and managers.
Gradual Technology Development for Ethnic Groups
Authors: Lopez Eusebio Jimenez , Molina Victor Manuel Martinez , Galaviz Victoria Moroyoqui , Martínez Lilia Zulema Gaytán , Nemecio José Manuel Luna , Martínez Aldo Augusto Lopez
Published: December 2021

This chapter presents the application of the concept of gradual technology to improve and increase the productivity of a workshop for the manufacture of handcrafted furniture owned by a cooperative formed by members of the Guarijía ethnic group, located in San Bernardo, Alamos, Sonora. The production process of the rustic furniture called “stool” was systematized and equipment was designed taking into account basic ergonomic aspects. Production sub-processes of the workshop and equipment were improved, including machinery design, purchase of basic technology, adaptation of electric current, water, and air conditioning systems. The basic inputs for manufacturing the furniture, such as wood and cowhide, were studied to determine whether the production of the stool affected the environment. The operating personnel in charge of the cooperative were trained in the use of the equipment and in the visualization of the improved processes.
In women with incontinence, the need for pressure-flow study before surgery and abnormalities in the voiding phase. An up-to-date comment on the available problem accompanied by literature
Authors: Erdem Kutluhan , Coskun Alper , Üstün Fatih , Tarhan Fatih
Published: December 2021

Objective: To investigate the differences between urodynamic findings and history in women with urinary incontinence before surgery and clarify the need for preoperative pressure-flow studies. Materials and methods: The medical records of 1018 women who underwent urodynamic examination for urinary incontinence between 2010 and 2015 were evaluated retrospectively. Stress (n = 442), urge (n = 334) and mixed (n = 242) were classified as type urinary incontinence according to urodynamics. The voiding phase findings of the patients were examined. Results: The mean age of the patients was 47.85 ± 0.27 years. 18.4% of patients (n = 187) had voiding phase problems. Furthermore, this condition was seen in the most urge incontinence type urinary incontinence (35%). There was a statistically significant difference between the groups' voiding phase findings (p < 0.0001). The relationship between the patient's history and international consultation on incontinence questionnaire form scoring (ICIQ) and the urodynamics results showed no excellent correlation. Conclusions: Voiding phase abnormalities are not uncommon in patients with urinary incontinence. They should be considered in the evaluation of patients. Voiding phase findings may show significant differences between urodynamic data and history. Besides, the data obtained with the questionnaire forms were significantly different from the findings obtained by urodynamics. Consequently, urodynamics may change pre-operative clinical decision.
A case of Vaccine-Induced Thrombotic Thrombocytopenia (VITT) with thrombosis of the superior mesenteric artery after ChAdOx1 nCov-19 COVID-19 Vaccine
Authors: Pini Laura , Malerba Paolo , Giordani Jordan , Stassaldi Deborah , Aggiusti Carlo , Martini Giuliana , Arenare Giulia , Premoli Chantale , Bosio Giulia , Lancelotti Marco , Bosisio Francesca , Muzi Giorgia , Muiesan Maria Lorenza
Published: December 2021

We describe the case of a 64 years-old woman admitted to the Emergency Department of the ASST-Spedali Civili of Brescia with fever and gastrointestinal symptoms 10 days after the first dose of ChAdOx1 nCov-19 vaccine. Laboratory investigations showed severe thrombocytopenia and high D-dimer, while an abdominal CT scan reported a partially occluding thrombosis of the superior mesenteric artery. Following treatment with fondaparinux, immunoglobulins and high dosage steroid therapy, we observed a rapid improvement of patient’s conditions. An ELISA assay showed the presence of antibodies against heparin PF4-complex. Subsequent abdominal CT-scan showed the superior mesenteric artery thrombosis resolution, and the patient was finally discharged after 12 days of hospitalization. Several reports pointed to the venous system as the main district affected by Vaccine-Induced Thrombotic Thrombocytopenia (VITT), while a peculiar feature of this report is the involvement of the mesenteric arterial system. Further investigation of VITT’s pathophysiological mechanisms is mandatory to develop preventive strategies and effective treatments.
Acute intoxication following massive bupropion sniffing: A case report
Authors: Sartori Simone , Brilli Valentina , Lanzi Cecilia , Pratticò Luca , Sarcoli Elisabetta , Di Milia Maria Grazia , Gambassi Francesco , Mannaioni Guido
Published: December 2021

Bupropion intranasal misuse potential should be considered in the suspect of sympathomimetic syndrome for illicit drug or medication intoxication. A 31-year-old man was admitted for intranasal misuse of 30 crushed tablets of bupropion with adrenergic mild presentation. Lorazepam infusion was started with complete clinical resolution. Further forensic investigations detected a bupropion serum and urine concentration levels at 18 hours from intake of 1905.26 ng/mL and 2001.57 ng/mL, respectively. This case of intranasal bupropion misuse shared only some features with oral overdose, despite a plasma concentration five times higher than the lowest toxic level. Nasal bupropion snorting in chronic users could have lower toxicity compared to other snorted stimulants but symptomatic treatment remains the gold standard for preventing complications. Bupropion misuse might rapidly become a concerning issue and monitoring by healthcare professionals is needed.
The Emergency Rooms and Emergency Medicine should not be the answer to the weakness of the Italian National Health System
Authors: Poggiali Erika , Barbieri Greta , Salvatore Veronica , Salinaro Francesco
Published: December 2021

Dear Editors,

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted several and wellknown limits of the Italian national health system, including the weakness of the territorial medical services and the absence of dedicated structures for patients affected by chronic or end-stage diseases in need of long hospitalization, or with social difficulties. [...]
Acute accidental inhalation of Chlorine gas: A mini review
Authors: Lai Franco , Baldini Alessio , Becheroni Luca , Cappellini Iacopo , Balzarini Barbara , De Antoniis Francesco , Ieri Alessandra , Gambassi Francesco , Pagnini Chiara , Pelagatti Lorenzo , Rugna Mario , Magazzini Simone
Published: December 2021

The Authors report an accidental gas exposure of Chlorine gas in a worker. This accident is very uncommon and can lead to important life-threatening conditions, such as Reactive Airway Disfunction Syndrome (RADS) and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) with important pulmonary disfunctions and even death. This syndrome results are reversible when a quick and appropriate intensive treatment is performed.
Monitoring the effects of therapeutic interventions in depression through self-assessments
Authors: Moragrega Ines , Bridler René , Mohr Christine , Possenti Michela , Rochat Deborah , Sanchez Parramon Judit , Stassen Hans H.
Published: December 2021

The treatment of major psychiatric disorders is an arduous and thorny path for the patients concerned, characterized by polypharmacy, massive adverse side effects, modest prospects of success, and constantly declining response rates. The more important is the early detection of psychiatric disorders prior to the development of clinically relevant symptoms, so that people can benefit from early interventions. A well-proven approach to monitoring mental health relies on voice analysis. This method has been successfully used with psychiatric patients to ‘objectively’ document the progress of improvement or the onset of relapse. The studies with psychiatric patients over 2-4 weeks demonstrated that daily voice assessments have a notable therapeutic effect in themselves. Therefore, daily voice assessments appear to be a lowthreshold form of therapeutic means that may be realized through self-assessments. To evaluate performance and reliability of this approach, we have carried out a longitudinal study on 82 university students in 3 different countries with daily assessments over 2 weeks. The sample included 41 males (mean age 24.2±3.83 years) and 41 females (mean age 21.6±2.05 years). Unlike other research in the field, this study was not concerned with the classification of individuals in terms of diagnostic categories. The focus lay on the monitoring aspect and the extent to which the effects of therapeutic interventions or of behavioural changes are visible in the results of self-assessment voice analyses. The test persons showed an over-proportionally good adherence to the daily voice analysis scheme. The accumulated data were of generally high quality: sufficiently high signal levels, a very limited number of movement artifacts, and little to no interfering background noise. The method was sufficiently sensitive to detect: i) habituation effects when test persons became used to the daily procedure; and ii) short-term fluctuations that exceeded prespecified thresholds and reached significance. Results are directly interpretable and provide information about what is going well, what is going less well, and where there is a need for action. The proposed self-assessment approach was found to be well-suited to serve as a health-monitoring tool for subjects with an elevated vulnerability to psychiatric disorders or to stress-induced mental health problems. Daily voice assessments are in fact a low-threshold form of therapeutic means that can be realized through selfassessments, that requires only little effort, can be carried out in the test person’s own home, and has the potential to strengthen resilience and to induce positive behavioural changes.
Neurosyphilis presenting with a large vessel occlusion
Authors: Krothapalli Neeharika , Desai Ninad , Tunguturi Ajay , Hou Yan , Patel Smit D.
Published: December 2021

We describe a case of a 36-year-old man who presented with stroke in the right paramedian pons in the pontine perforator territory, manifesting as intermittent headache, slurred speech, left-sided weakness, and paresthesia. This case highlights the diagnostic challenge in identifying neurosyphilis as a cause of stroke in young individuals. Clinicians should maintain vigilance for this uncommon etiology through conducting a detailed history and investigation in susceptible patients with key risk factors. Once the diagnosis was confirmed in our case, a multidisciplinary approach was used for management with neurologists, infectious disease specialists, and the neurointerventional team. Our patient ultimately underwent successful therapy with mechanical thrombectomy for basilar artery thrombosis from meningovascular syphilis.
Association between transcranial Doppler vasospasm and functional outcome after subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Majewska Paulina , Hara Sozaburo , Gulati Sasha , Solheim Ole
Published: December 2021

AIM OF THE STUDY:

This study aimed to investigate the association between transcranial Doppler (TCD) vasospasm and patient outcome and to assess the predictive factors for developing TCD vasospasm after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH).

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This retrospective observational study included adult patients with nontraumatic SAH. Patient characteristics and TCD values were recorded retrospectively from patient records. Data on maxTCD (maximal TCD value recorded on any side between day 1 and day 14) as well as Δ TCD (maximal difference between mean velocity measured on days 1–3 and days 4–14 on any side) were calculated. The modified Rankin Score was recorded from electronic patient notes at discharge and 3, 6, and 12 months after ictus. The effect of TCD vasospasm, maxTCD, and Δ TCD on the clinical outcome was investigated. Potential predictive factors for developing TCD vasospasm were assessed. The association between the same factors and maxTCD and Δ TCD were explored.

RESULTS:

One hundred and thirty-eight patients were included in the study. Higher age was associated with a lower risk of developing TCD vasospasm (odds ratio: 0.952, 95% confidence interval: 0.924–0.982, P = 0.002). Fisher grade was a predictor of developing TCD vasospasm (P = 0.05). Age was negatively correlated with maxTCD (R = −0.47, P = 0.01). There was no statistically significant difference in patient outcome at hospital discharge and at 3, 6, and 12 months between patients with and without TCD vasospasm. Higher maxTCD and Δ TCD were associated with a worse clinical outcome at 3 months after SAH ictus.

CONCLUSIONS:

The clinical benefit of routine TCD assessments in SAH patients remains uncertain.
Comparative Evaluation of Cytotoxic and Genotoxic Effects of Three Resin-Based Sealers by 3,(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide Assay and Comet Assay – An In Vitro Study
Authors: Dhopavkar Vaidehi Vikas , Shivanand Sunita S. , Bhat Kishore , Patil Anand C. , Doddwad Preeti K. , Godbole Niraj Jayant
Published: December 2021

Background and Aim:

The complete sealing of the pulpal space contributes to the better healing potential after an root canal treatment, and root canal sealers are an integral part of this treatment which comes in contact with the periodontal tissue. Biocompatibility of an endodontic sealer plays an important role in the root canal treatment procedure. Hence, the aim of the study was to compare and evaluate the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity effect of three resin-based sealers on human periodontal fibroblast cells.

Settings and Design:

This in vitro study was conducted in Dr. Prabhakar Kore's Basic Science and Research Center and K. L. E V. K. Institute of Dental Sciences, Belagavi.

Materials and Methods:

Human periodontal fibroblasts were incubated with 15 specimens of Group 1 – AH Plus Group 2 – MTA Fillapex, and Group 3 - GuttaFlow 2, respectively. Cytotoxicity was assessed by 3,(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay and genotoxicity was assessed by Comet assay at time intervals at 24 h and 48 h.

Statistical Analysis:

Data were analyzed by the Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney U-test.

Results:

AH Plus and GuttaFlow 2 did not show any cytotoxicity or genotoxicity. MTA Fillapex was slightly cytotoxic throughout the time interval, and it also showed low genotoxicity throughout the time periods for which it was tested.

Conclusion:

AH Plus and GuttaFlow 2 did not show any cytotoxic and genotoxic effect; however, MTA Fillapex showed cytotoxic and genotoxic effect throughout the time interval.
Lingual Frenuloplasty for Ankyloglossia in Children
Authors: Rajain Tanu , Tsomu Kesang , Saini Natasha , Namdev Ritu
Published: December 2021

Tongue is an important oral structure that affects speech, position of teeth, periodontal tissue, nutrition, swallowing, nursing, and certain social activities. Tongue-tie or ankyloglossia is a developmental anomaly of the tongue, characterized by an abnormally short, thick lingual frenulum resulting in limited tongue movement. Diagnosis must include functional assessment of tongue mobility, in addition to the physical appearance of the frenulum. Tongue mobility and appearance associated with the insertion, as well as the attachment and the shortness of the lingual frenulum should be evaluated. Ankyloglossia management should be considered at any age considering the risk-benefit evaluation and because of the highest vascularization and mobility of the tongue. Lingual frenuloplasty for the management of ankyloglossia in children is being discussed in the form of case series.
Comparative Evaluation of Efficacy between Recombinant Human Bone Morphogenetic Protein-2 Impregnated with Absorbable Sponge and Platelet-Rich Fibrin in the Treatment of Grade II Furcation Defects
Authors: Sneha Kidambi , Sowjanya Kacharla , Vaishnavi Varanasi , Chandra Rampalli Viswa
Published: December 2021

Aim and Objectives:

The objective of the study was to clinically and radiographically compare and evaluate the regenerative potential of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (RhBMP-2) impregnated with absorbable collagen sponge and platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) in the treatment of Grade II furcation defects.

Patients and Methods:

Thirty-two subjects were randomly assigned to each of the following groups: bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) group and PRF group, with one defect/subject. Sixteen Grade II furcation defects were treated with RhBMP-2 impregnated with absorbable collagen sponge in the BMP group and the remaining 16 defects were treated with PRF in the PRF group. Clinical and radiographic parameters which were evaluated at baseline, postoperative 1 week, 3 months, and 6 months were probing pocket depth, clinical attachment level, scoring of plaque index, and gingival index, and the bone fill was evaluated using Digital Subtraction technique and morphometric area analysis with ImageJ® software.

Results:

RhBMP-2 in absorbable collagen sponge was effective in increasing the bone fill in Grade II furcation defects when compared to PRF alone (P = 0.05). In relation to clinical parameters, both the groups showed no statistical significance between them.

Conclusion:

The unique regenerative potential of RhBMP-2 impregnated with absorbable collagen sponge makes it a potential agent to be used as a graft material for the treatment of Grade II furcation defects.
Comparison of Medial Longitudinal Arches of the Foot by Radiographic Method in Users and Nonusers of High-Heeled Footwear Among Young Women
Authors: Naseer Saimah , Babu Ravinder Prakash , Panjala Ashok , Arifuddin Mehnaaz Sameera , Manfusa Hunaina , Rao Ephraim Vikram
Published: December 2021

Introduction:

The arches of the foot help in transmission of the body weight and permit adjustments on uneven surfaces. Prolonged use of high heels causes elevation or collapse of these arches by stress and strain over the weight-bearing bones, and also causes damage to the underlying soft tissues and ligaments. The aim of this study was to document the presence of any changes in medial longitudinal arches in young women using high heels through radiographic method taking into account body mass index, height of heels, and the type of shoes worn and to document lower back pain and foot pain.

Material and Methods:

An observational study between 40 high-heel wearers and 40 flat wearers was done. Lateral radiographs of both feet were taken in weight-bearing position with medial border of the foot touching the cassette. Lateral talocalcaneal angle, lateral talar-first metatarsal angle, angle of longitudinal arch, and calcaneal pitch were measured by a protractor and goniometer. A questionnaire documented complaints of back pain and foot pain.

Results:

Independent sample t-test showed a statistically significant difference in left lateral talar-first metatarsal angle between two groups. Pearson's correlation showed a negative correlation between left lateral talocalcaneal angle and low back pain, and a positive correlation between right lateral talar-first metatarsal angle and low back pain.

Discussion and Conclusion:

Frequent and prolonged use of high-heeled footwear can result in damage to the foot architecture leading to foot and back pain. Thus, keeping the high heels reserved for occasional use is the best choice.
Intraoperative Evaluation by Ultrasound of Multiple Rib Fractures in Trauma Patients
Authors: Cruz Gustavo , Sanchez Alvaro I , Puyana Juan Carlos , Velasquez Mauricio
Published: December 2021

Introduction:

Increased interests in surgical approaches for multiple rib fractures in trauma patients have emerged lately. A novel strategy based on intraoperative ultrasound (US) assessment to locate these fractures has been proposed to perform smaller incisions for thoracic wall reconstructions. We aimed to describe variations of site, size, and direction of surgical incisions before and after US use intraoperatively for localization of rib fractures.

Materials and Methods:

In this pilot study, ten trauma patients with multiple rib fractures requiring thoracic wall reconstruction were prospectively included during a 9-month period. Computer tomography of the thorax was used for determining surgical incisions. Before surgical incision, US was used for the identification of rib fractures and for marking a different surgical incision. In each patient, qualitative comparisons of surgical incision marks before and after US were performed.

Results:

The qualitative analysis demonstrated that five patients (5/10) had a change in the direction of the incision and also in five patients (5/10) there was a change in the size of the incision. In those five patients in whom the length and size of the incision changed, there was a median length reduction of the incision of 3 cm (interquartile range 2–3).

Conclusions:

In this pilot study, we observed that trauma patients with multiple rib fractures requiring thoracic wall reconstruction may benefit from intraoperative assessment of US for targeted surgical planning. US might offer advantages for surgical planning before defining the final surgical approach.
CIC-DUX4 Sarcoma
Authors: Liao Chang-Hung , Peng Yi-Jen , Hsu Yi-Chih , Chang Ping-Ying
Published: December 2021

CIC-DUX4 sarcoma is highly aggressive and rapidly develops lethal metastatic disease and chemoresistance. Its histology is similar to that of Ewing sarcoma and other small round cell sarcomas. Correlation with clinical data, radiological findings, pathological results (including immunohistochemistry and fluorescence in situ hybridization), and/or molecular techniques is necessary. We present the case of a 44-year-old woman who was initially diagnosed as having high-grade undifferentiated round cell sarcoma confirmed to be a CIC-DUX sarcoma by next-generation sequencing.
A predictive logistic regression model for periodontal diseases
Authors: Hossain Md. Zahid , Alshahrani Mohammad Ai , Alasmari Abdulmajeed Saeed , Hyderah Khaled Mashoor , Alshabab Ahmed Zafer , Hassan Mutaz Ali , Abdulrazzaq Abdo Mohammed
Published: December 2021

Introduction:

Periodontal diseases (gingivitis and periodontitis) are one of the main concerns for oral health affecting around 20%–50% of the world population.

Aims:

The aim of this study was to formulate a predictive model for periodontal diseases in a selected population.

Materials and Methods:

A hospital-based analytical study was carried out. Seven hundred male patients having different forms of periodontal diseases were included to explore the common features and possible risk factors related to periodontal diseases. Chi-squared test and t-test were performed for univariate analysis, and binary logistic regression model was adapted for multivariate analysis using SPSS v23.

Results and Discussion:

Four hundred and seventy (67%) and 230 (33%) patients suffered from gingivitis and periodontitis, respectively. The mean age of patients with periodontitis (37.17 ± 11.52 years) was significantly higher than those with gingivitis (26.04 ± 10.83 years). Univariate analysis showed that plaque and calculus had statistically significant relationship with gingivitis 451 (72%). Systemic diseases 18 (72%) and patients' habits 39 (76%) had statistically significant relationship with periodontitis (P < 0.05). A logistic regression model was formulated including age, risk factors, and nationality. The model was tested, and its sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy for detecting periodontal diseases were equal to 83.3%, 67.2%, and 78.0%, respectively.

Conclusions:

This model had a good fit and explained a significant proportion of variance in the outcome variable (periodontitis) R
2 = 0.40, (χ2 (9) = 238.32, P < 0.001).
Academic success predictors for architecture students at Kano University of Science and Technology, Wudil, Kano State, Nigeria
Authors: Maina J. J. , Zakari A. T. , Alkali I. A. , Salisu R. A.
Published: December 2021

Academic success, linked to socioeconomic advancement and key positive indicators inlife has largely been investigated along STEM courses especially in Nigeria. In this study, academic success was predicted at two levels: second class lower (2.2) and second class upper (2.1) degreesusing 244 questionnaires from architecture undergraduates at Kano University of Science and Technology (KUST) Wudilto test the hypothesis that other factors apart from motivation predict high academic success. Results from Binary Logistic Regression models indicate that achieving a 2.1 degree largely depends on personal attributes, notably how efficiently a student manages time/schedules, some degree of independence as well as conducive learning environments (classrooms, accommodation, external lighting, power supply, worship places and general cleanliness)and not necessarily motivation. This lends credence to Walberg’s Theory of Educational Productivity. Overall, mode of entry was the only significant predictor for academic success for both 2.2 (p=0.007, Exp(β)=1.990) and 2.1 (p=0.016, Exp(β)=1.361) class of degree models. This implies that candidates admitted through avenues other than UTME/ JAMB such as Direct Entry have higher chances of graduating with a 2.1 class of degree. Prospective candidates are encouraged to pursue advanced level qualifications prior to admission into architecture as this substantially increases the probability of graduating with a high class of degree.
Evaluating the effect of spherical crystallization of acetylsalicylic acid crystal and crystal agglomeration of Manihotesculenta starch on direct compression tablet properties
Authors: Nnamani N. D. , Okafor I. S. , Ume O.N.
Published: December 2021

Spherical crystallization and crystal agglomeration have been used to optimize compact crystals and functional properties of powders. The aim of this work is to evaluate the effect of spherical crystallization of acetylsalicylic acid crystals and crystal agglomeration of Manihotesculenta starch on direct compression tablet. Typical spherical crystallization using three solvent system of water–ethanol-carbon tetrachloride was used to produce spherical acetylsalicylic acid. Salting-out agglomeration of gelling in water and salting in ethanol was used to produce starch-xerogel from Manihotesculenta starch. The modified products were qualified using FT-IR analysis. The analysis results showed that modification did not alter chemical nature of the products. Acetylsalicylic acid tablets were formulated using spherical-crystallizedacetylsalicylic acid with 5 and 10% w/w starch-xerogel respectively, and using acetylsalicylic acid with 5 and 10% w/w of starch, and microcrystalline cellulose respectively. The physicochemical properties of the tablets were evaluated. Astatistical 23 factorial design of the tablet properties at 5% level of significance showed that the effects of the variables are different. Theacetylsalicylic acid tablets formulated from direct compression of spherical-crystallizedacetylsalicylic acid with 5 % w/w starch-xerogel produced quality tablets comparable to standard tablets from direct compression of acetylsalicylic acid with10 % w/w microcrystalline cellulose. Spherical crystallization and crystal agglomeration optimized the compact crystals of starch and acetylsalicylic acid, and improved direct compression properties of the crystals, and drug release from tablet.