bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performances et politiques financières comparées des entreprises familiales et non familiales cotées au Maroc
Authors: Cherkaoui Adil , Dembele Abraham Toumany
Published: September 2023

Ce travail se propose de mettre en évidence, à la fois, les performances économiques et financières des entreprises familiales cotées, mais aussi leurs politiques financières. La comparaison faite avec les groupes non familiaux nous permet d’identifier d’une part, le système de gouvernance le plus performant au Maroc et d’autre part la tendance des sociétés cotées en matière de politique financière. La méthode des échantillons non appariés a été utilisée pour analyser les différences de moyennes observées. Nos résultats démontrent une supériorité des entreprises familiales en termes de performances. Ils font également ressortir une tendance des entités familiales vers l’autofinancement comme principale source de financement, mais aussi un niveau d’endettement plus élevé par rapport aux firmes non familiales cotées.
Valoriser comptablement et financièrement le bénévolat : ce que les responsables d’associations en pensent…
Authors: Rakotondrajao Nancie , Méreaux Jean-Paul
Published: September 2023

Le bénévolat représente une ressource essentielle pour une grande majorité des associations, plus particulièrement celles qui sont non-employeuses. Ces dernières concentrent 72% du volume total de travail bénévole du secteur (Tchernonog et Prouteau, 2019). Conscientes des enjeux, certaines associations tentent de valoriser ces contributions, grâce à plusieurs guides. Nous proposons de compléter les méthodes d’évaluation existantes, car jusqu’alors basées essentiellement sur la valorisation du temps passé, ces dernières ne reflètent pas totalement la réalité des engagements. Le savoir, les compétences, les expériences des bénévoles ne sont pas pris en compte. Nous avons conduit une étude exploratoire auprès de 20 dirigeants d’associations concernant cette approche. Les résultats montrent qu’ils y sont favorables compte tenu du temps qu’ils y consacrent mais s’interrogent sur la difficulté de sa mise en œuvre. Les avis sont plus ou moins tranchés en fonction de leur niveau d’engagement, expériences, parcours personnel, et le secteur d’activité de l’association.
The Implementation of Glasses-free 3D Display in ICL Surgery: A Pilot Study
Authors: Zheng Ke , Zheng Xiaohong , Wang Jing , Han Yinan , Wang Xiaoying , Zhou Xingtao
Published: September 2023

Purpose:

To compare the efficacy and safety of the glasses-free three-dimensional (3D) display and conventional optical microscope in Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL; STAAR Surgical) surgery.

Methods:

This randomized controlled trial enrolled 51 eyes of 26 patients who received ICL surgery. After random allocation, patients received surgery under either a glasses-free 3D display (16 eyes) or a conventional optical microscope (35 eyes). The surgical duration, uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), intraocular pressure, vault, postoperative manifest refraction spherical equivalent (MRSE), and complications were evaluated.

Results:

Mean surgical time was 5.04 ± 2.74 minutes for the glasses-free 3D group and 4.65 ± 2.63 minutes for the conventional microscope group (
P
= .639). Postoperative UDVA was −0.02 ± 0.04 and −0.04 ± 0.05 logMAR (
P
= .169), CDVA was −0.03 ± 0.04 and −0.02 ± 0.05 logMAR (
P
= .434), and IOP was 17.01 ± 3.15 and 14.82 ± 2.20 mm Hg (
P
= .055) at 1 month of follow-up, respectively. Vault was 562.86 ± 192.89 and 520.18 ± 215.19 µm, and MRSE was +0.25 ± 0.21 and +0.10 ± 0.51 diopters, respectively, at 1 month postoperatively; all were comparable between the glasses-free 3D group and conventional microscope group (all
P
> .05). No complication occurred in both groups.

Conclusions:

The glasses-free 3D group achieved similar efficacy and safety compared to the conventional microscope group, and glasses-free 3D surgery is expected to show a significant advantage in clinical and medical education.

[
J Refract Surg
. 2023;39(9):612–619.]
A bounded rational agent-based model of consumer choice
Authors: Tsiatsios Georgios Alkis , Leventides John , Melas Evangelos , Poulios Costas
Published: September 2023

In a bottom-up approach, agent-based models have been extensively used in finance and economics in order to understand how macro-level phenomena can emerge from myriads of micro-level behaviours of individual agents. Moreover, in the absence of (big) data there is still the need to test economic theories and understand how macro-level laws can be materialized as the aggregate of a multitude of interactions of discrete agents. We exemplify how we can solve this problem in a particular instance: We introduce an agent-based method in order to generate data with Monte Carlo and then we interpolate the data with machine learning methods in order to derive multi-parametric demand functions. In particular, the model we construct is implemented in a simulated economy with 1000 consumers and two products, where each consumer is characterized by a unique set of preferences and available income. The demand for each product is determined by a stochastic process, incorporating the uncertainty in consumer preferences. By interpolating the data for the demands for various scenarios and types of consumers we derive poly-parametric demand functions. These demand functions are partially in tension with classical demand theory since on certain occasions they imply that the demand of a product increases as its price increases. Our proposed method of generating data from discrete agents with Monte Carlo and of interpolating the data with machine learning methods can be easily generalized and applied to the assessment of economic theories and to the derivation of economic laws in a bottom-up approach.
On a class of one-dimensional superlinear semipositone $ (p, q) $ -Laplacian problem
Authors: Wang Xiao , Hai D. D.
Published: September 2023

We study the existence of positive solutions for a class of one-dimensional superlinear $ (p, q) $ -Laplacian with Sturm-Liouville boundary conditions. We allow the reaction term to be singular at 0 with infinite semipositone behavior. Our approach depends on Amann's fixed point theorem.
Reshaping the Role of Finance
Authors: Hernandez-Gonzalez Luis Manuel
Published: September 2023

The world of manufacturing has shaped several countries and regions, and created specific sites of excellence in several places. However, the speed at which investment is being made requires all support areas to be agile and effective on the deliverables. Finance plays a significant role from day-to-day activities, to strategy, investment, and in the relocation of manufacturing footprint. The speed of cost, rate of revenue, and inventory have become a major challenge for companies and for finance executives.
Transforming Next Generation-Based Artificial Intelligence for Software Development
Authors: Deshmukh Atharva , Patil Disha Sunil , Shyam Mohan J. S. , Balamurugan G. , Tyagi Amit Kumar
Published: September 2023

All of the advances that we see in our lives are mostly based on software. Over the last several years, software development techniques have seen a significant transition. It simplifies and profits the firm, for example. Many customers' burdens are lightened as a result of their combined efforts. Today, software powers practically every area of the economy and is an integral aspect of a country's economy. Artificial intelligence is no exception. Businesses have embraced practically all developing technology in their software development. AI's effect on software development alters how businesses operate and makes software smarter. In this chapter, the authors have talked about the change AI would bring to software development and the role of could. The authors have also discussed traditional ways used. Towards the end of this paper, they have added open issues and challenges in detail.
The Influence of the Evolution of Technology 4.0 in Continuing Education
Authors: Reyna Ramiro
Published: September 2023

The technological advances that the world has experienced throughout all the years have caused important changes in the structures of society. Education is one of the fields in which the industrial revolution, driven by technological development, caused a significant impact, since technology allowed students to freely access more information and therefore more knowledge. Education 2.0 and 3.0 brought not only access to information, but also greater connectivity and interaction between people, particularly between teachers and their students. The dynamism of technology also brought opportunities for innovation with Education 4.0, changing the existing paradigm from face-to-face to online classes, the emergence of digital, your relationship with those around you, and your abilities to meet basic demands and roles in society. These changes meant the application of new educational methodologies, aimed at significant learning that prepares the individual with the necessary skills to face the modern world of work.
A Brief Overview of Cyber Security Advances and Techniques Along With a Glimpse on Quantum Cryptography
Authors: Singh Vineeta , Kaushik Vandana Dixit
Published: September 2023

The vulnerability of wireless communication systems and technologies to various cyberattacks has been made public in recent years via different researchers; these cyberattacks not only impact private businesses but also government institutions. Sensitive and private data safety is a major challenge because of hackers since they are always trying to find loopholes in security models with different strong tactics and tools for cracking any sized keys. For minimizing such invasions, various developments have been made. This chapter carries out an in-depth study of several standard cyber security strategies currently in practice and the difficulties to be faced in cyber security practices. The modern efficient key systems are also shown, and the latest generation vulnerabilities are well described and reported. The advantages of quantum cryptography are highlighted along with its potential in the future. It presents a summarized glimpse in different aspects for novice researchers to educate themselves with recent developments in the cyber security field.
Classifications of the Instrument of Force Required to Investigate Suspects of Cybercrimes Against Outpatients' Adolescents With Psychiatric Emergencies
Authors: Nehinbe Joshua Ojo , Adebesin Jimmy Benson
Published: September 2023

Interdisciplinary studies on cybercrimes against some outpatient adolescents with psychiatric emergencies have identified critical concerns and new debates on the instances whereby law enforcement agents are largely compelled to use the instrument of force. The adolescents may unexpectedly harm themselves or vulnerable people. Psychiatric emergencies can lead to lawlessness like premeditated crimes and constructive vandalism. This research adopts a quantitative review of IDS logs, interviews, and virtual meeting apps. Thematic analysis suggests the limits of non-violent methods of investigating cybercrimes and further classifies clinical use of force on the need to use and suggestive circumstances that combine empathy, mutual dialogue, and compassionate care with non-toxic, refraining, harmless, and inoffensive interventions. New legal concepts on the instrument of force like proxy witness, evocative criminal liability, implicit and explicit jurisdictions, surrogated and virtual complainants were suggested to safeguard the above adolescents from cyber criminals.
Organizational Transformation Projects
Authors: Trad Antoine Toni
Published: September 2023

The implementation of organizational transformation projects (simply project) in the contexts of complex and dynamic businesses (or other application domains), need an optimal transformation framework and a holistic RoGCSC. The RoGCSC uses measurable cybersecurity and governance security risk (secRisk) critical factors, which are mitigated and tuned, to ensure project's successful evolution and predict/block cyber (or classical) crimes/misdeeds. The actual exponential rise of cybercrimes has become a major concern for countries, enterprises, and citizens; and that obliges projects to integrate polymathic-holistic security strategies. Actual cyberspace's resilience, control, and security concepts are siloed, insufficient, chaotic, and concentrate only on platforms' infrastructural aspects. Actual concepts focus on isolated hackers, where financial predators are the ones behind major cybercrimes. Global cybercrimes are closely related to global events and phenomena, like financial greediness, insecurity, conflicts, terrorism, pandemics, and societal crisis.
Investigating the Dark Side of Gaming Chat Applications
Authors: Plachkinova Miloslava
Published: September 2023

The current study investigates the dark side of using gaming chat applications for illegal activities like selling credentials, stolen credit cards, private data, sexual exploitation, and organizing groups on white supremacy. With the shutdown of many Darknet websites and illegal marketplaces, criminals are now switching to chat platforms that allow them to resume their operations easily and quickly. In addition, such communities can be utilized for recruitment and for providing instructions on how to commit crimes to individuals anywhere in the world. The study is grounded in social learning theory, as it explains how crime is learned through interactions on these applications. The goal of the current work is to explore further these platforms and to provide law enforcement with guidance and recommendations on how to integrate digital forensic tools more effectively and efficiently for investigating data generated on gaming chat platforms and preventing future crimes facilitated through these platforms.
Cybercrime and Cybersecurity Laws in Current and Future Contexts With Evolving Crimes Across National Boundaries
Authors: Sarkar Banhita , Mitra Anirban , Chatterjee Sujoy
Published: September 2023

This chapter intends to discuss cybercrime and cybersecurity laws in their current and future contexts. The initial part of this chapter discusses terms and issues related to the cyber world. This portion has touched areas where the requirement of cyber laws is increasing with the advancement of time, technology, and types of cybercrimes. The later section of this chapter will look at existing and widely used cybersecurity laws from around the world. We have emphasized on Cyber Security Laws in India, the US, and the UK. The reason for focusing on these countries is that there are many multinational organizations that have offices spread across these regions. However, it should be noted that cybercrime is not limited by national or geographical boundaries and once committed, is dealt with under international law and in accordance with the trade agreements between the countries involved. The authors have included two famous trans boundary cyber cases that were brought to justice.
Accelerating Industry 4.0 Using Computer Vision Algorithms and Analysis
Authors: Dhibar Kunal , Maji Prasenjit , Mondal Hemanta Kumar , Mondal Swadhin Kumar
Published: September 2023

The objective of this chapter is to assist engineers and researchers in understanding the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in the approaching Industry 4.0 revolution. And anytime we discuss this transformation, the major focus shifts to the concept of smart machines that can communicate with one another, and we end up referring to it as the internet of things. In reality, AI is the foundation of evolution. Two significant issues will be addressed in this paper. The first section will look at how AI, ML, and IoT may aid the industry, while the second will look at the issues and hurdles that this forthcoming technology will encounter. This is a research-based chapter in which the authors will provide information gathered from numerous sources regarding the various applications of this new technology and how people are adjusting to it. From its history to its benefits, drawbacks, and applications, there are several issues that we may encounter if the concept of this technology is not effectively presented.
Network Congestion Control Using Deep Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Rout Jigyansha Jeevan , Tripathy Aruna , Dastidar Ananya
Published: September 2023

Network congestion is getting more and more severe day by day with the deployment of long-term evaluation (LTE) and 5G as more users get added to the networks. The issue gets even more severe with the rapid growth of e-commerce, online banking and entertainment platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, YouTube that generate a huge amount of traffic worldwide. In this chapter, the authors address this traffic congestion issue with a hand-held solution. Here they proposed a method that can be used for network congestion control. Simulation studies show the performance of the proposed method that works with 50% compression of the transmitted images which can reduce the size of image by 50% by keeping quality of service. The aim is to reduce the network traffic by half in both transmitter and receiver ends.
Editorial
Authors:  Wijesundara T. R.
Published: September 2023

No abstract available
Examining the Role of Advertising Value Perceptions in Driving Engagement: A Framework for Assessing Hotel/Restaurant Paid Advertising Effectiveness on Facebook
Authors: De Silva Thanuka Mahesha
Published: September 2023

Drawing on the uses & gratifications theory (UGT) and Ducoffe’s advertising value model, this study aims to present a comprehensive framework for assessing Facebook paid advertising effectiveness, incorporating antecedents of Facebook advertising value and the effect of this advertising value on advertising engagement. The data were collected through an online questionnaire survey, and the final sample consisted of 290 young respondents in Sri Lanka, who had the experience of using Facebook and being exposed to hotel/restaurant paid advertisements embedded on Facebook for the past year. The conceptual framework was tested with a structural equation modeling (SEM) approach using AMOS 21.0. The results indicated that perceived informativeness, entertainment, credibility, and interactivity of hotel/restaurant Facebook paid advertising were positively related to advertising value, which in turn affected advertising engagement. Interestingly, the findings highlighted that credibility was the strongest predictor of advertising value, with interactivity in second place. The study emphasizes the importance of meeting customer perceptions in driving engagement with the paid advertisements embedded on Facebook. Accordingly, in order to optimize Facebook paid advertising, marketers should employ strategies to provide customers with informative, entertaining, credible and interactive advertising content. While providing novel insights into both academics and Facebook marketers, this study highlights the importance of determining Facebook advertising campaign success with respect to its ability to influence both customer perceptions and online behaviors. As such, the novelty of this paper is that its focus on both customer perceptions and engagement in assessing Facebook paid advertising effectiveness.
Incisional herniae following lower segment caesarean section: A 20-year chart review
Authors: Dodampahala S. H. , Chandrasena Lal , Abeysuriya Vasitha
Published: September 2023

Introduction: The rates of caesarean delivery is increasing worldwide as well as in Sri Lanka. Incisional hernia is a known complication of abdominal surgery. To our knowledge there has been no study to assess the incidence of incisional hernia following caesarean section in Sri Lanka. This study was to assess the incidence of incisional hernia requiring surgical repair after lower segment caesarean section (LSCS) in a cohort during a 20-year period.Methods: This was a chart review based on tertiary care private sector hospital in Sri Lanka. Hernia repairs performed during 2002 to 2022 were identified. The data was retrieved from computer based data base and previous bed head tickets. The main inclusion criterion was a caesarean delivery from the 01st of January 2002 to 31st of December 2022 in women with no history of previous abdominal surgery. The cohort was assessed from their first caesarean delivery until 20 years in the inclusion period for an event of hernia repair. The following exclusion criteria for the hernia repairs were used: Diastasis rectiwithout hernia, hernia not in the caesarean incision, and no hernia. The study was approved by the Research and Ethical Committee of Nawaloka Hospital Sri Lanka. The patient records and the data-set were anonymized before analysis. No conflict of interest.Results: There were 2675 records retrieved. The mean age of the patients was 28±7.5 years. There were 10/2675 (0.37%) patients were found to incisional herniae following LSCS. The majority (7/10) of patients with incisional hernia had lower midline incisions for their LSCS. The average time duration of the occurrence of incisional hernia following a single LSCS was 19.5±2.3 months and it was 14.3±1.6 and 12.3±1.5 months for following second and third LSCS respectively. Majority of the incisional herniae were done as routine cases. Following the incisional hernia repair one patient had a recurrence after year.Conclusion: The overall incidence of having an incisional hernia requiring repair of a caesarean delivery was 0.37%. Most herniae appeared within the first two years and associated with the lower midline incisions.
Acute appendicitis in pregnancy
Authors: Abeysuriya Vasitha , Dodampahala H. S. , Chandrasena Lal
Published: September 2023

Introduction: The early diagnosis and management of appendicitis in pregnancy are essential in maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. In this 20-year retrospective study, we aimed to assess the outcomes of pregnant patients diagnosed with acute appendicitis.Methods: A single-center retrospective study was carried out. Randomly selected 2000 medical records of pregnant mothers referred as outpatients and hospitalized from 2002 to 2022 were retrieved. Six pregnant patients who were diagnosed and treated in Nawaloka Hospital with the diagnosis of acute appendicitis during 2002-2022 were examined retrospectively. Ethics Committee approval was received. No conflicting interest.Results: The age range of our patients was 22 to 31 years, mean of 26± 3.4. The mean gestational week was 20±5.3 weeks, and most were in the second trimester 4 (68%). All patients were admitted with the complaint of abdominal pain, the majority of them had the right iliac fossa pain (RIF). All had elevated inflammatory markers. No computed tomography (CT) was performed. One patient was diagnosed clinically of having acute appendicitis without any imaging. Acute appendicitis was diagnosed in 3/5 patients who underwent ultrasound scan examination. The other two patients (one from 2nd trimester and one in the third trimester) were diagnosed with acute appendicitis on MRI examination. All patients underwent open appendectomy under general anaesthesia. No maternal or foetal morbidity or mortality was noted during pre or post-surgical and anaesthesia procedures. The mean hospital stay was 3.9±0.9 days. All appendixes were pathologically proven to have acute appendicitis. Except for minor superficial surgical site infection rest of the mothers and foetus had no morbidity or mortality recorded in the follow-up.Conclusion: Although appendicitis is not frequent during pregnancy, it is a disease that requires urgent surgical and obstetrics care for timely diagnosis and treatment.
Posterior versus lateral plating of lateral malleolus fractures using a posterolateral approach
Authors: El Ghazawy Ahmed K , Ismail Kotb Mohamed , Saeed Younis Ahmed
Published: September 2023

Aim

We compared the clinical outcomes of fixing lateral malleolus fractures with lateral or posterior plating in combined lateral and posterior malleolar ankle fractures.

Methods

We randomized thirty patients with ankle fractures involving the posterior and lateral malleoli into two groups. In group 1, we dissected laterally, raising a lateral skin and subcutaneous flap to allow lateral fixation of the lateral malleolus. In group 2, we did not raise the flap fixing the lateral malleolus posteriorly by deep dissection and retracting the peroneal tendons laterally. During the follow-up period, we assessed pain at six months and at the end of the follow-up, ankle range of motion, wound complications, reoperation rates, fracture union, implant failure, and foot and ankle disability index (FADI).

Results

The mean follow-up period was 24.33 months. The mean age of the included participants was 41.76 ± 7.3 years. The mean visual analogue score VAS score at six months follow-up was 2.13 ± 0.54 in group 1 and 3.6 ± 0.76 in group 2, which decreased to one in group 1 and two in group 2 at the end of follow-up. The mean FADI was 89.8 ± 3.76 in group 1 and 90.7 ± 2.45 in group 2. The reoperation rate was 6.6% in group 1 and 26.6% in group 2 Fixation of all posterior malleolus fractures was done in all patients, union was achieved with no complications.

Conclusion

There is no clinical difference between lateral and posterior plating of the lateral malleolus through the posterolateral approach.
Outcomes of arthroscopic-assisted fixation of intra-articular proximal tibial fractures by circular external fixator
Authors: Toreih Ahmed , Rakha Mohammed I
Published: September 2023

Background

Fractures of the tibial plateau usually result from high-energy trauma. Motor vehicle accidents seem to be the predominant cause worldwide. The objective of treating displaced fractures is to restore the articular surface anatomy and repair soft tissue injuries. We aim to improve the functional and radiological results of the arthroscopically assisted fixation of the tibial plateau fractures using Ilizarov fixator.

Methods

The study was carried out on patients attending to Orthopedic Surgery Department at a major metropolitan hospital in Egypt, between March 2019 to September 2020. Forty-five patients with tibial plateau fractures of Schatzker classification type II to type VI were operated on.

Results

The results indicate that the Ilizarov method is a valuable alternative in treating Schatzker II-VI fracture types. The mean time from injury to partial weight bearing (PWB) and full weight bearing (FWB) were 12.75 and 22.73 weeks, respectively. The mean Knee Society Score was 75.42 ± 9.91. Over 70% of self-reported Overall Functional Grades were deemed ‘good’ (n=21, 47.6%) or ‘excellent’ (n=12, 26.7%) at the end of the follow-up period. Pin tract infection was reported in 31(68.9%) cases, and delayed union developed in 7 (15.6%) cases.

Conclusion

Early and definite fixation is achieved with the Ilizarov and arthroscopic technique, allowing intra-articular assessment of the reduction, and management of associated intra-articular soft tissue injuries with immediate PWB. It is believed that this minimally invasive method does not lead to the additional morbidity and the combined advantages of arthroscopy and Ilizarov allows successful fixation and early activity.
The Pros and Cons of Hystero-preservation on Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery
Authors: Chen Chin-Chiu , Peng I-Ting , Wu Ming-Ping
Published: September 2023

In the “boat at the dock” theory, pelvic organ prolapse (POP) may happen when the ropes (uterine supportive ligaments) break and/or the water level drops (pelvic floor muscles). Thus, it causes the boat (uterus and other pelvic organs) to slip from normal position and protrude out of the vagina. Surgical intervention with or without hysterectomy (hystero-preservation) is the most effective treatment for POP. Both hysterectomy and hystero-preservation for POP had a high anatomic and clinical cure rate. There is an increasing trend of hystero-preservation for POP during the past decades. The choices of either hysterectomy or hystero-preservation depend on the surgical factors, psychosocial factors, self-esteem and sexuality factors, and surgeon factors. Pelvic reconstructive surgery, either hysterectomy or hystero-preservation, can be performed via different approaches, including abdominal, laparoscopic, and vaginal routes, with native tissue or with mesh. This review will elucidate their related pros and cons, with further discussion and comparison of hystero-preservation via different routes.
Imbalance between serum interleukin-36 and interleukin-38 is associated with metabolic syndrome in psoriasis vulgaris
Authors: Amer Marwa A. , Mahgoub Doaa M. , Kadry Dina , Ahmed Ghada R.A. , Rashed Laila A. , Gaballah Basma A. , Kamel Marwa M.
Published: September 2023

Background

In psoriasis, interleukin (IL)-36 is considered a pathogenic driver, whereas IL-38 was downregulated. Little is known about their role in metabolic syndrome (Ms) in psoriasis.

Objective

To evaluate a possible relation between serum IL-36 and IL-38 and Ms in psoriasis vulgaris.

Patients and methods

This study was designed as a case–control study. It included 80 participants, who were divided into four groups: group A included 20 psoriasis patients with Ms, group B included 20 psoriasis patients without Ms, group C included 20 controls with Ms, and group D included 20 healthy controls. Written informed consents were signed by all participants. Clinical examination and psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) evaluation were done. BMI, waist circumference, arterial blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, and lipid profile were measured. Blood samples were withdrawn, and serum IL-36 and IL-38 levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

Serum IL-36 levels were significantly higher in group A (mean±SD=187.84±32.84 pg/ml) compared with group B (mean±SD=156.5±24.09 pg/ml) (P<0.001), or group C (mean±SD=115.18±14.69 pg/ml) (P<0.001) or group D (mean±SD=38.06±10.18 pg/ml) (P<0.001). Serum IL-38 levels were significantly lower in group A (mean±SD 57.34±19.91 pg/ml) compared with group B (mean±SD=73.9±16.13 pg/ml) (P<0.006) or group C (mean±SD=74.67±12.89 pg/ml) (P=0.002), or group D (mean±SD=212.36±17.55 pg/ml) (P<0.001). In group A, IL-36 had a 75% sensitivity and 70% specificity with a cutoff value of 166.2, whereas IL-38 had an 80% sensitivity and 65% specificity with a cutoff value of 74. There was a significant negative correlation between IL36 and IL-38 levels (r=−0.637, P<0.001).

Conclusion

Patients with psoriasis with Ms had significantly higher IL-36 and lower IL-38. Imbalance between IL-36 and IL-38 may be associated with underlying metabolic disturbance seen in psoriasis.
New-onset unilateral cutaneous annular atrophic lichen planus after COVID-19 infection and reactivation after re-infection
Authors: Attia Enas
Published: September 2023

A huge number of related dermatological manifestations have been stated, since the outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19) in December 2019. Here inside, a case of recent-onset unilateral cutaneous annular atrophic lichen planus (AALP) after COVID-19 infection, with reactivation after re-infection, is documented.
Acral interdigital melanoma mimicking tinea pedis
Authors: El Enany Galal , Nada Hanan , Abd El Halim Mona R.E. , Shalaby Suzan , El Ghanam Omar , Mohamed Riham Mohye Eldeen
Published: September 2023

We report a case of interdigital acral nodular melanoma on the right fourth toe cleft of a 56‐year‐old Caucasian man that was initially misdiagnosed and mistreated as tinea pedis for over one year. Despite undergoing complete tumor resection and therapeutic lymphadenectomy, as well as adjuvant immunotherapy, the patient died of metastatic disease 18 months after his first visit. This case emphasizes that refractory interdigital dermatophytoses should raise suspicion for the possibility of concomitant malignant neoplasms. Histopathological assessment is indispensable for definite diagnosis of acral interdigital lesions not responding to treatment.
Serum CCL20: A novel potential marker of cardiovascular risk in alopecia areata patients
Authors: Hamed Ahmed M. , Abdelmaksoud Amal M. , Elfallah Asmaa A. , Sweed Enas M. , Ibrahim Samah E.
Published: September 2023

Background

Alopecia areata (AA) is a prevalent autoimmune skin disease that may be associated with systemic disorders. The connection between cardiovascular risks and AA is not widely investigated. Chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 20 (CCL20) has been found to be related to cardiovascular comorbidities.

Objective

To investigate the role of CCL20 in AA patients and its relation to cardiovascular comorbidity.

Patients and methods

This study enrolled 80 AA patients and 40 age and sex-matched control subjects. Serums CCL20, high sensitive C- reactive protein (Hs-CRP), lipid profile in addition to carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) were investigated in all subjects.

Results

AA patients expressed significantly higher serum CCL20 levels than healthy controls (29.6±20.4 vs. 10.3±6.7, P <0.001). Serum CCL20 was significantly correlated with total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), triglycerides (TGs), and CIMT (p value: 0.002, 0.044, <0.001, <0.001, respectively). Regression analysis was conducted for prediction of CV increased risk and revealed that older age, higher LDL, TC, TG, HS-CRP, CCL2, lower HDL and presence of alopecia were associated with risk of higher CIMT in univariable analysis.

Conclusion

Serum CCL20 might have a role in AA pathogenesis. It may serve a new possible link between AA and both systemic inflammation and cardiovascular risk observed in AA patients.
A comparative surface evaluation of orthodontic mini-implants before and after en masse retraction—A SEM study
Authors: Ranjan Alok , Shetty Pravin , Despande Rahul , Biradar Anil , Khan Waseem , Kulshrestha Rohit
Published: September 2023

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the changes in surface morphology of two different types of mini-implants after clinical en masse retraction using scanning electron microscopy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS:

Fifty mini-implants of Dentos (Korea, Absoanchor, BH-1817-08) and Orlus (Korea, Yesanchor, C-1817) were inserted in patients in a split-mouth design who required en masse anterior retraction and absolute anchorage. Surface characteristics of mini-implants such as pitch (distance between consecutive threads), flank width (distance between root and crest), and taper were studied using scanning electron microscope (FEI nanosem450) before and after clinical use.

RESULTS:

Statistically significant difference (p value = 0.003) was found in a mean reduction of pitch dimension among the two groups with a mean difference of 25.000 μm. Also, a statistically significant difference was noted (p value = 0.001) in a mean reduction of flank width among Dentos implants as compared to Orlus implants. A statistically significant difference (p = 0.001) was seen in the mean reduction of taper dimension among Dentos group (0.0140 ± 0.02271) as compared to the Orlus group (0.0810 ± 0.05152).

CONCLUSION:

A marked reduction in surface morphology such as the pitch, flank width, and taper of both mini-implants after retrieval was observed. Dentos group of mini-implants displayed better dimensional stability post-retrieval as compared to the Orlus group of mini-implants. All the mini-screws showed milling defects in form of scratches on observation under scanning electron microscopy despite a smooth appearance to the naked eye.
Management of ankyloglossia by functional frenuloplasty using diode laser
Authors: Cherian Deepthi , Saeed Raed , Anusha K , Rag Bimal , Peter Tim
Published: September 2023

Ankyloglossia or tongue-tie is a condition present since birth that results in restricted movement of the tongue due to the attachment of the lingual frenulum. The condition affects breastfeeding, speaking, swallowing, occlusion, and proper tongue posture. Tongue ties vary in degree of severity from mild cases of mucus membrane bands to complete tongue ties where the tongue adheres to the floor of the mouth. Treatment options such as speech therapy, frenotomy, frenectomyhave all been suggested in the literature. Surgical correction often causes, bleeding, chances of infection, swelling, and relapse. A systemically healthy 23-year-old male patient who experienced difficulty in speech since childhood was referred for treatment to the dental clinic in September 2020. He was diagnosed with Kotlows class III tongue tie and angles class 3 malocclusion. Orthodontic correction and Functional frenuloplasty using a diode laser was carried out. In conjunction with it, orofacial myofunctional therapy was advised. Follow-up: The surgical procedure was uneventful. The patient was reviewed post-operatively at regular intervals every 3 months to check for relapse. This paper elaborates on the newer modes of diagnosis, orofacial myofunctional therapy, and lingual frenuloplasty with diode laser. This technique will help to overcome all the challenges of conventional tongue-tie treatments providing long-term excellent results.
Normal pre-eruptive inclinations of maxillary canine, lateral incisor, and first premolar in children aged 6–14 years
Authors: Goje Santosh K. , Dave Bhavna
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND:

Maxillary canine is the second most common tooth that gets impacted after III molars. Early pre-eruptive inclination changes of first premolar and its associative changes with canine inclination are an important factor that predicts the fate of maxillary canines. Hence, a cross-sectional study was planned to evaluate the normal pre-eruptive mesiodistal inclinations of maxillary permanent canine, first premolar, and lateral incisor in children aged 6–14 years using orthopantomogram.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The total number of participants was 296. Each group of boys and girls consisted of 37 participants in each of the age groups 6–8 years, 8–10 years, 10–12 years, and 13–14 years, making up a total of 148 boys and 148 girls. Routine clinical examination was conducted, and orthopantomograph was taken for radiographic examination. Orthopantomographs of all these participants were collected. Inclination of lateral incisor, inclination of canine, and inclination of premolar with midline were measured on the orthopantomogram. Also, the angles between the canine with lateral incisor and canine with first premolar were measured. Pearson correlation was also evaluated between the movement of canine with lateral incisor and canine with first premolar.

RESULTS:

All the mean angles related to lateral incisor, canine, and first premolar with midline were recorded. Also, the angles between the canine with lateral incisor and the canine with first premolar were recorded. The movements between lateral incisor, canine, and first premolar were moderately correlated from 6 to 12 years of age.

CONCLUSION:

The eruption of canine from the floor of the nose till it erupts has its synchronized influence on the lateral incisor and the first premolar.
Strategic implants and bone morphogenic changes: Survival and clinical success in long-term
Authors: Gangadhar B. , Ila Anbu , Kumar Randhir , Ruban Beautlin , Punnoose Kurian , Dandekeri Shilpa , Babu Suresh J. , Swarnalatha C. , Nayyar Abhishek S.
Published: September 2023

Dental implants are one of the established treatment protocols to replace/restore lost tooth/teeth structures. Ihde and Ihde redefined concept of strategic implantology based on immediate loading. The aim of present case series was to evaluate efficacy of strategic implants regarding primary stability, quality of bone, survival, and clinical success in long-term. The present case series included a total of 26 patients aged 40 to 70 years restored with strategic implants after an immediate loading protocol. On follow-up visits, clinical assessment of implant stability was done by absence of implant mobility and absence of pain and dysesthesia while radiographically, immediate postoperative crestal bone level was compared with that observed on follow-up visits. Also, integration of apical and/or crestal threads of implants were assessed radiographically for any signs of radiolucency along with healing of sockets and crestal bone levels in relation to abutment margins.
Factorial analysis of variables affecting bone stress adjacent to mini-implants used for molar distalization by direct anchorage—A finite element study
Authors: Kovuru Veena , Aileni Kaladhar R. , Mallepally Jaya P. , Kumar K. Siva , Sursala Swathi , Pramod Vattipalli
Published: September 2023

OBJECTIVE:

The aim of this study was to investigate the stresses on mini-implant, cortical bone, and cancellous bone for maxillary molar distalization using an orthodontic implant in a finite element model for different angulations and depths of insertion.

METHODS:

A three-dimensional finite element method was used to simulate overall orthodontic tooth movements by using ANSYS software. The maxillary bone and the molars were reproduced using CT scan images and conversion of the same into STL file was done. Finite element model was generated and the effect of forces was studied on the model for different depths and angulations of mini-implant insertions. The distalization force was exerted by an open-coil spring and the direct skeletal anchorage was provided by a mini-implant. Mini-implants were placed in depths of 5 mm, 7 mm, and 9 mm inside the bone and insertion angles of 30°, 60°, and 90°. Stresses on mini-implant and extent of stress on the surrounding bone were assessed by the software.

RESULTS:

1. Least stress was found when the mini-implant was inserted at an angle of 30°, as it is nearer to the stronger cortical bone. 2. As the length of the mini-implant increases, accompanied by the increase in the depth of insertion, a decrease in stress in the mini-implant, cortical bone, and cancellous bone was noticed.

CONCLUSION:

An increase in the insertion angle from 30° to 90° increases the stresses on both the implant and the cortical bone. A higher depth of thread in the bone helps in reducing the stress on the implant, cortical bone, and cancellous bone. This helps in improving the primary stability of the mini-implant and its life.
Effect of orthodontic retraction force on thick and thin gingival biotypes in different grades of gingival recession and alveolar bone quality: A finite element analysis
Authors: Chaturvedi T. P. , Singh Deepak , Sharma Vipul Kumar , Priyadarshani Pooja , Turkiya Shweta
Published: September 2023

INTRODUCTION:

To evaluate the effect of orthodontic retraction force on thick and thin gingival biotypes of anterior teeth having grade I and II gingival recession with D1 and D2 alveolar bone densities by assessing the displacement of teeth and deformation in gingival tissue, along with evaluating the amount of equivalent stress on teeth and gingiva in finite element model.

MATERIALS AND METHOD:

Based on cone-beam computed tomography datasets, eight models (LC01–LC08) of maxilla with appliance assembly were created. A retraction load of 150 gm was applied on each model during the finite element analysis (FEA), and then values of teeth displacement, gingival deformation, and von Mises stress were evaluated.

RESULT:

All the models with D1 bone density (LC01–04) were showing gingival deformation, whereas models with D2 bone quality (LC05–08) give no significant outcome. The amount of von Mises stress for teeth and gingival tissue in each model was the same for both central and lateral incisors.

CONCLUSION:

All the models having D1 bone quality showed greater gingival deformation after applying retraction force, whereas in models with D2 bone density, deformation was not significant. Changes in gingival tissue are brought about by orthodontic treatment, which also helps to correct the periodontal defects; however, bone density plays a significant role in improving gingival recession.
Femtosecond laser-assisted posterior capsulotomy for the treatment of capsular block syndrome
Authors: Lim Xian Hui , Patil Moushmi , Mehta Jodhbir S.
Published: September 2023

We present a novel use of femtosecond laser to treat capsular block syndrome (CBS) in a patient with dense opaque capsular block, who presented 16 years postcataract surgery. The extensive posterior capsular distension and densely opaque, milky fluid trapped behind the intraocular lens (IOL) prevented the use of neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd: YAG) laser posterior capsulotomy as primary treatment. Intra-operative optical coherence tomography enabled visualization of the posterior capsule and iris hooks were used to increase the pupillary diameter to enable femtosecond laser-assisted posterior capsulotomy to be performed in a minimally invasive technique. CBS was relieved successfully and Nd: YAG laser performed subsequently to remove residual posterior capsule opacification safely and with good visual outcomes. This method avoids risks associated with posterior vitrectomies and compromised IOL stability from inadvertent capsular bag damage, and adds to the expanding uses of femtosecond laser technology.
The asymptomatic ocular surface reservoir of coronavirus disease-19 in infants and retinopathy of prematurity screening during the pandemic
Authors: Oto Bilge Batu , Tok Yeşim , Kılıçarslan Oğuzhan , Kuşkucu Ahmet Mert , Yetik Hüseyin
Published: September 2023

PURPOSE:

This study aimed to evaluate the incidence of conjunctival and pharyngeal swab sample positivity of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in asymptomatic preterm and term infants. We aimed to detect asymptomatic carrier potential in infants.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Patients screened for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) at our clinic between January and June 2021 were recruited for this study. For all study cases, the previous history of possible exposure or contact with SARS-CoV-2, previous history of coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19), or contact with any COVID-19 case was excluded. None of the patients showed signs of COVID-19 during sample collection. Pharyngeal and conjunctival swab samples were collected before the ophthalmic examination. Nucleic acid isolation from the samples was performed using an automated system. The presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in the samples was screened using a real-time polymerase chain reaction kit, and the positive samples were re-evaluated for the variant virus.

RESULTS:

Among the 127 patients with a median age of 40 weeks (range: 34–86) of postmenstrual age, positivity for SARS-CoV-2 RNA in the pharyngeal and conjunctival samples was 5/127 (3.93%) and 3/127 (2.36%), respectively. Isolated conjunctival positivity was not observed in any of the patients, and all three patients were positive for both conjunctiva and pharynx.

CONCLUSION:

Asymptomatic infants may be a reservoir for SARS-CoV-2, and conjunctival infection in infants may be a source of virus transmission. Since ROP screening cannot be postponed during the pandemic, caution should be exercised to prevent the spread of the disease.
Tenon excision with fibrin glue-assisted reattachment of conjunctiva flap (T.E.F.A.R.C) for the treatment of conjunctivochalasis
Authors: Hou Yi-Ting , Hsieh Bing-Jun , Wu Jo-Hsuan , Huang Wei-Lun , Chen Wei-Li
Published: September 2023

To observe the surgical outcome of “Tenon Excision with Fibrin Glue-Assisted Reattachment of Conjunctiva Flap” (T.E.F.A.R.C.) for the treatment of symptomatic conjunctivochalasis (CCH). This is a retrospective case series of CCH patients undergoing T.E.F.A.R.C. from January 2017 to December 2020 were reviewed. Seven patients (14 eyes) with symptomatic CCH received T.E.F.A.R.C. in both eyes. The symptoms before and after the procedures were compared and surgical complication was evaluated. The mean follow-up time was 13.7 ± 2.14 months. After the operation, resolution of the symptoms was reported in 12 eyes (86%). The grade of CCH decreased from 3 to 0 in all 14 eyes, and the restoration of inferior conjunctival surface and fornix within 1 day was also observed in all eyes. Most patients had localized injection and mild chemosis after the operation, which mostly recovered within 3 weeks. No complication or recurrence of CCH was reported after 1 year of follow-up. In conclusion, T.E.F.A.R.C. is a simple and effective treatment option for CCH with less surgical complication. Future larger studies are needed to confirm its clinical applicability.