bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design for sintering – A comprehensive study on anisotropic dimensional change on sintering
Authors: Cristofolini Ilaria , Uçak Onur Utku , Zago Marco , Vicenzi Bruno , Dougan Mark James , Schneider Markus , Pedersen Preben Hedegard , Voglhuber Juergen
Published: April 2024

This work collects as a whole the main results obtained in the Design for Sintering project, aimed at improving the effectiveness of a design procedure accounting for anisotropic dimensional change on sintering, through a deep investigation of the related phenomena and mechanisms. The project was developed in cooperation with the main European companies producing sintered components, and it is based on a huge experimental campaign. Ring-shaped parts with different characteristics were produced in different process conditions, and dimensional changes were derived from a careful reconstruction of geometry, measured in the green and sintered state. In the first part of the project, parts characterised by different geometrical parameters and different green densities were produced, using many different powder mixes, from highly shrinking to slightly swelling. The first part of the project highlighted the importance of anisotropic dimensional change in the compaction plane, and a new anisotropy parameter was proposed accordingly. In the second part of the project, the study was then focused on the anisotropy of dimensional changes in the compaction plane, as affected by different compaction strategies. The results were implemented in the design procedure, and process conditions were highlighted ensuring good agreement between real and predicted dimensions.
Documenting and Exchanging Simulation Specifications: A Language-Agnostic Approach
Authors: Isaac Alan G.
Published: April 2024

Simulation experiments have increased their influence on social science, creating a need for documentation tools and practices that facilitate replicability. Two crucial components common to many simulation experiments require particularly detailed documentation: the baseline parameterization, and the experimental designs. This paper explores the adaptability to these needs of a recent but already popular file format. It demonstrates how to produce easily human-readable documentation of baseline parameterizations that also supports automated, programming-language agnostic information exchange. This format is additionally useful for documenting certain experimental designs.
Visual Preference for Socially Relevant Spatial Relations in Humans and Monkeys
Authors: Goupil Nicolas , Rayson Holly , Serraille Émilie , Massera Alice , Ferrari Pier Francesco , Hochmann Jean-Rémy , Papeo Liuba
Published: April 2024

As a powerful social signal, a body, face, or gaze facing toward oneself holds an individual’s attention. We asked whether, going beyond an egocentric stance, facingness between others has a similar effect and why. In a preferential-looking time paradigm, human adults showed spontaneous preference to look at two bodies facing toward (vs. away from) each other (Experiment 1a, N = 24). Moreover, facing dyads were rated higher on social semantic dimensions, showing that facingness adds social value to stimuli (Experiment 1b, N = 138). The same visual preference was found in juvenile macaque monkeys (Experiment 2, N = 21). Finally, on the human development timescale, this preference emerged by 5 years, although young infants by 7 months of age already discriminate visual scenes on the basis of body positioning (Experiment 3, N = 120). We discuss how the preference for facing dyads—shared by human adults, young children, and macaques—can signal a new milestone in social cognition development, supporting processing and learning from third-party social interactions.
Impact of the Use of Emerging Technologies on Organisational Knowledge-creation Capability by Task Complexity
Authors: Cha Namjun , Kim Eungdo
Published: April 2024

In the context of knowledge-based economy, an organisation’s ability to create knowledge is the most important factor in maintaining its competitiveness. Collective intelligence is posited as a paramount methodology not only for the generation of knowledge pertaining to multifaceted issues but also as a fundamental pillar within the framework of organizational knowledge management. The use of emerging technologies is an important strategy for improving the organisation’s ability to create knowledge through collective intelligence by adding depth and breadth of knowledge. However, excessive use of technology often has a negative impact on organisational knowledge management. Therefore, this study aims to identify the two-sided effect of using emerging technologies (big data analytics (BDA) and online platforms) on organisational knowledge creation according to the complexity of the task. The results of our study suggest that the use of BDA technology for organisational knowledge creation should be maintained at an appropriate level in general, but it is recommended to increase the use of BDA technology for low-complexity tasks. In addition, using online platform technology is difficult to consider as a strategic way to solve high-complexity tasks, but increasing the use of BDA technology can contribute to improving the organisation’s ability to create knowledge.
Spinal Intramedullary Cysticercosis- A Case Report with Brief Review of Literature
Authors: Prachi  , Aiyer Hema Malini , Shrivastav Ashish Kumar , Sharma Gaurav
Published: April 2024

Introduction:

Although neurocysticercosis is the most common parasitic infestation in central nervous system, yet the intramedullary spinal involvement remains the extremely rare site of presentation. Due to its extreme rarity, these tumors pose diagnostic and therapeutic challenges and may be interpreted as intramedullary tumors. Hence to avoid this conundrum, a detailed clinical, radiological, and histopathological evaluation is mandatory to come to a definitive diagnosis. Case Report: We, hereby report a rare case of spinal intramedullary cysticercosis in a 19-year-old male, who was misdiagnosed as tuberculosis on imaging and was proven to be a case of neurocysticercosis with the aid of histopathology. Conclusion: The mainstay of lesion is complete surgical removal, followed by a mandate for detailed histopathological examination for early and appropriate diagnosis and management.
Parotid Lipomas: Case Series and Literature Review – A Case Report
Authors: Unar Ambreen Abdullah , Akhtar Soubia , Iftikhar Haissan , Ikram Mubasher , Akhtar Shabbir
Published: April 2024

Background:

Lipomas are the most frequent neoplasm of mesenchymal origin in the head-and-neck region. Around 15% of lipomas are found in the head-and-neck region. The usual site where lipomas can be found in the head-and-neck region is in the posterior triangle of the neck but they can also be found in the anterior neck, infratemporal fossa, submandibular space, larynx, pharynx, and parotid gland. The incidence of parotid lipoma ranges from 0.6% to 4.4% of all parotid neoplasms. There are two histological variants, focal lipoma and diffuse infiltrating variant. We describe two cases of rare focal lipoma of the parotid gland, therefore, must be reported. As rare as it may appear, existing relevant literature suggest management to includes definitive radiological investigations such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and complete removal of lipoma with or without a cuff of parotid tissue. Case Report: Two cases were identified with a parotid lipoma on final histology. Case 1 is a 57-year-old male with a history of painless left parotid swelling for 2 years, reported to be 5 cm × 4 cm size on ultrasound, therefore, underwent superficial parotidectomy. Case 2 is a 67-year-old male who presented with right parotid swelling for 15 years, reported on ultrasound to be 5 cm × 5 cm, and underwent excision of intraparotid tumor. He later went on to develop breast carcinoma. The facial nerve was intact of both patients. Conclusion: Parotid lipomas are rare entities that should be a differential for clinically soft parotid swellings. Management includes definitive radiological investigations such as MRI and complete removal of lipoma with or without a cuff of parotid tissue instead of regular ultrasound followed by fine-needle aspiration cytology. Although our cases were managed on the same regular outlines, but reporting these cases would suffice the potential role of MRI and computed tomography scan for parotid swelling as per existing literature.
A Rare Case of Pial Arteriovenous Fistula in an Infant – A Case Report
Authors: Kumar Savith , Menon Gayathri S. , Urs Prashanth S. , Itihas Anup
Published: April 2024

Introduction:

Pial arteriovenous fistula (PAVF) is a rare intracranial vascular malformation with diverse clinical presentations. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial due to its poor natural history. Endovascular treatment has emerged as a preferred option with promising results. Case Report: We report a case of an 8-month-old infant who presented with recurrent focal seizures and acute intraparenchymal hematoma. Further investigation with magnetic resonance angiography and digital subtraction angiography confirmed the presence of a PAVF. Results: Endovascular embolization successfully obliterated the PAVF with no postprocedural complications. Clinical follow-up demonstrated a favorable outcome. Conclusion: This case highlights the significance of early detection through suitable imaging modalities and timely intervention in preventing life-threatening complications associated with PAVFs. Endovascular embolization offers an effective and safe treatment option for pediatric PAVFs, leading to positive outcomes in this rare entity.
Accessory Ostium of the Maxillary Sinus and Its Impact on Sinusitis
Authors: Swain Santosh Kumar
Published: April 2024

Background:

One of the anatomical variations in the maxillary sinus is the accessory ostium (AO). In the nasal cavity, the lateral wall’s vertical plane is parallel to the form of the AO, which is round or oval in appearance. During a nasal endoscopic examination, AO may be seen in contrast to the normal ostium of the maxillary sinus, which is hidden behind the uncinate process.

Methods:

The search for recent research articles on AO of the maxillary sinus was done with databases Scopus, PubMed, Medline, and Google Scholar. This review article discusses the prevalence, development, endoscopic examination, clinical significance, surgical importance, relationship with chronic sinusitis, and its management.

Results:

AO may interfere with ventilation and drainage of the maxillary sinus. Hence, it is important to evaluate the anatomical features of the AO for its relationship with sinus pathology. The development of maxillary sinusitis may be significantly impacted by the anatomical variance known as AO of the maxillary sinus. The middle meatus’s posterior nasal fontanelle is where AO is most frequently observed. The possible mechanism for the formation of AO is obstruction of the natural ostium of the maxillary sinus by sinusitis or due to anatomical and pathological factors in the middle meatus leading to rupture of membranous regions such as fontanelle.

Conclusion:

Clinicians must have adequate knowledge regarding the anatomical variations of the AO. It frequently appears in the fontanelle, the membranous portion of the middle meatus’ lateral nasal wall that is between the uncinate process and inferior meatus.
The Enactment of a Corporate Entrepreneurial Role: A Double-Edged Sword Forged by Heart and Context
Authors: Soto-Simeone Aracely , Biniari Marina G.
Published: April 2024

Enacting a corporate entrepreneurial role requires cognitive, behavioral, and emotional qualities. While scholarly work has focused on the cognitive and behavioral aspects of this role, its emotional aspect—how corporate entrepreneurs feel when enacting their role—remains relatively unexplored. Our qualitative study reveals the corporate entrepreneurial role as a source of liabilities and assets for the role incumbents’ work-related identity, which are brought to light as these employees emotionally experience their role. In addition, we elucidate how contextual elements shape this experience, and how corporate entrepreneurs use emotions to work around the detrimental and beneficial effects of their role enactment.
A Good Signal: How Firms Can Utilize Country of Origin as a Strategic Analytical Tool
Authors: Rahman Rafid Ur , Heinberg Martin , Banerjee Sourindra , Katsikeas Constantine S.
Published: April 2024

Abundant consumer data has made decision-making more complicated, rather than simple, for marketers. This raises an important question about which variables in the data contain reliable information for retailers to predict future consumer purchase value (CPV) to guide strategic decisions. The authors address this question by exploring the variables “distinctive choice of brand country of origin” (DBCOO) and “country of origin diversity” (COO diversity) as analytical tools to extract insights from consumer purchase data. Building on signaling theory, the authors theorize and empirically test that DBCOO and COO diversity in a consumer's purchase history can signal, and therefore help predict, CPV. Moreover, the authors explore high-involvement product categories and purchase frequency as boundary conditions to develop a comprehensive framework of COO signals as strategic analytical tools. They find that DBCOO in a consumer's purchase history indeed increases CPV and that this relationship is enhanced for high-involvement product categories but moderated curvilinearly by purchase frequency. Moreover, they find that the COO diversity–CPV link is positive but interacts negatively with both moderators. This allows retailers to successfully distinguish high- from low-CPV consumers and thus enables them to manage the marketing mix and resources more effectively.
L-type Amino Acid Transporter 1 as a Therapeutic Target in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Norrsell Ragnar , Bauden Monika , Andersson Roland , Ansari Daniel
Published: April 2024

Metabolic rewiring is a key feature of cancer cells to support the demands of growth and proliferation. The metabolism of amino acids is altered in many cancers, including pancreatic cancer. The cellular uptake of amino acids is regulated by amino acid transporters, such as L-type amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1). Accumulating evidence suggests that LAT1 is overexpressed in pancreatic cancer and confers a poor prognosis. Here we discuss the prospects of utilizing LAT1 as a novel target for pancreatic cancer therapy.
Perils and Possibilities: Sexual Violence Preventionists’ Perspectives on Gathering Community Input on Prevention Practice
Authors: Rieger Agnes , Zhan Qihao , Griffin Breanna , Garthe Rachel C. , Allen Nicole E.
Published: April 2024

There is relatively little research unpacking provider processes or tensions (e.g., leadership decision-making) when attempting to gather and incorporate community feedback into gender-based violence work. Across focus groups with 18 sexual violence preventionists, we explored experiences collecting information and perspectives from or with community members; barriers, and facilitators; and how they navigate possibilities of community-informed sexual violence prevention. We learned that preventionists want to gather input, and they gather it in nonsystematic ways; they face barriers familiar to many community-informed processes; and the topic of sexual violence complicates community-informed processes. Determining boundaries of possibility is central to navigating practice. Further, organizational settings are influential in determining boundaries.
When and how do peers stimulate engaging in desirable difficulties: Student perspectives on the effectiveness of supplemental instruction
Authors: Dekker Izaak , Koerhuis-Pasanisi Marie-José , Koek Martijn
Published: April 2024

Supplemental instruction, also known as Peer Assisted Study Sessions (SI-PASS), is a well-established form of peer learning that has been implemented in higher education institutions across the globe and that coincides with learning gains for participants. While the effects on learning gains have been extensively studied with quasi-experiments, the underlying mechanisms that make SI-PASS effective are less well understood. This study explored what benefits students thought SI-PASS offered and through which mechanisms. We studied this by interviewing 14 students who participated in SI-PASS during a field experiment that reliably found a significant impact of SI-PASS on performance. The students were asked to expand on if and why they thought SI-PASS was effective. Thematic analysis and independent coding indicated an interplay of three main drivers. SI-PASS was experienced as effective because it stimulated the use of effective study techniques and social learning. These drivers were facilitated and enhanced by a pedagogical climate that lowered the threshold to engage in collaborative learning and effective study techniques. These findings could help pinpoint what elements should be highlighted during the preparation of SI-leaders and what aspects should be monitored and tested when implementing or studying SI-PASS.
Occupational Therapy Outcome Measures in Preschool Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Scoping Review
Authors: Ghahramani Sahar , Hassani Mehraban Afsoon , Alizadeh Zarei Mehdi , Ghahramani Sulmaz
Published: April 2024

With the rising prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), early assessment of preschool children is vital for occupational therapists. This scoping review aimed to provide detailed information about outcome measures used in occupational therapy interventions in preschool children with ASD and map the focus of the outcome measures based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) components. A thorough search from 2000 to 2022 was conducted that employed ICF linking rules to categorize the outcome measures. Seventy-four outcome measures were identified. They predominantly targeted body function and activity/participation, with less emphasis on environmental factors, and none assessed body structure. The most common measures were Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale (VABS-2), Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM), and Parenting Stress Index–Short Form (PSI-SF). This study offers a diverse array of outcome measures and underscores the potential of the ICF framework in enhancing evaluations, particularly concerning broader environmental components as one of the primary facilitating/hindering factors in the participation of children with ASD.
Physical Activity in Older Adults: What Every Internist Needs to Know
Authors: Piercy Katrina L. , Polster Malorie , Macias Bianca , Vaux-Bjerke Alison
Published: April 2024

The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans (Guidelines) advises older adults to be as active as possible. Yet, despite the many benefits of physical activity, less than 15% of people ages 65 years and older meet the Guidelines. To address this, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services developed a Midcourse Report focused on the strategies and settings that can help increase physical activity levels among older adults. Internists are well positioned to encourage older adults to be more physically active. Health care providers can leverage this position to talk about the importance of regular physical activity; assess physical activity levels; share information and resources about how to safely get started; and provide counseling, guidance, and/or referrals to additional providers or programs for further support. This article provides an overview of the recently released Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans Midcourse Report: Implementation Strategies for Older Adult and highlights the role of internists and other health care providers to encourage and support their patients to be more physically active.
Presence of endometriosis and chronic overlapping pain conditions negatively impacts the pain experience in women with chronic pelvic–abdominal pain: A cross-sectional survey
Authors: Bartley Emily J , Alappattu Meryl J , Manko Kelsey , Lewis Hannah , Vasilopoulos Terrie , Lamvu Georgine
Published: April 2024

Background:

Evidence of overlap between endometriosis and chronic pain conditions is emerging; however, little is known about how the pain experience differs based on the presence or absence of endometriosis.

Objectives:

In a sample of women reporting chronic pelvic–abdominal pain (CPP), the aim of this study was to characterize differences in pain symptomatology between women with and without endometriosis and to examine the influence of chronic overlapping pain conditions (COPCs) on pain among these two groups.

Design:

This was a cross-sectional study, based on an online survey.

Methods:

Participants (aged 18+ years) completed a survey collecting pain diagnoses and symptoms assessing pelvic pain severity, pain interference, and pain impact. Independent sample t-tests, chi-square, and multiple linear regression models were employed to analyze group differences in pain symptomatology and COPCs.

Results:

Of the 525 respondents with CPP, 25% (n = 133) reported having endometriosis. Women with endometriosis were younger at the onset of pelvic pain, relative to women without endometriosis ( p = 0.04). There were no differences in age, race, ethnicity, or duration of pelvic pain between women with and without endometriosis. Women with endometriosis reported higher pelvic pain severity (+0.8, 95% CI = 0.4–1.1), pain interference (+5.9, 95% CI = 2.4–9.3), and pain impact (+1.9, 95% CI = 0.8–2.9). Endometriosis was associated with a higher number of COPCs ( p = 0.003), with 25% (n = 33) of women reporting ⩾3 overlapping pain conditions compared with 12% (n = 45) of those without endometriosis. Women with endometriosis had a higher frequency of fibromyalgia ( p < 0.001), chronic fatigue syndrome ( p < 0.001), and temporomandibular disorder ( p = 0.001). The number of COPCs was associated with higher pain severity, interference, and impact, independently of endometriosis.

Conclusion:

Women with endometriosis experienced higher levels of pain-related burden and COPCs compared with those without endometriosis. Pain intensity, interference, and impact increased with a higher number of pain conditions regardless of endometriosis presence.
Supervised and Unsupervised Approaches for the Real-Time Detection of Undesired Insulin Suspension Caused by Malfunctions
Authors: Idi Elena , Facchinetti Andrea , Sparacino Giovanni , Del Favero Simone
Published: April 2024

Background:

Automated insulin delivery (AID) systems, permit improved treatment of type 1 diabetes (T1D). Unfortunately, malfunctioning in the insulin pump or in the infusion set can prevent insulin from being administered, reducing the AID efficacy and posing the patient at risk. Different data-driven methods available in the literature can be used to deal with the problem of automatically detecting complete insulin suspension in real-time. This article investigates both supervised and unsupervised strategies and proposes a fair comparison under either population or personalized settings.

Methods:

Several algorithms are compared using data generated through the UVA/Padova T1D simulator, a computer simulator widely used to test control strategies in silico and accepted by the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) as a substitute to animal pre-clinical trials. Two synthetic data sets, each consisting of 100 virtual subjects monitored for 1 month, were generated. Occasional faults of the insulin pump are simulated as complete occlusions by suspending the therapy administration. Personalized algorithms are investigated with unsupervised approaches only, since personalized labels are hardly available.

Results:

In the population scenario, the supervised approach outperforms the unsupervised strategy. In particular, logistic regression and random forest achieves a recall of 72% and 82%, with 0.12 and 0.21 false positives (FP) per day, respectively. In the personalized setting scenario, the unsupervised algorithms are tailored on each patient and outperform the population ones, in particular isolation forest achieves a recall 80% and 0.06 FPs per day.

Conclusions:

This article suggests that unsupervised personalized approach, by addressing the large variability in glucose response among individuals with T1D, is superior to other one-fits-all approaches in detecting insulin suspensions caused by malfunctioning. Population methodologies can be effectively used while waiting to collect sufficient patient data, when the system is installed on a new patient.
Breathing Uneasily: Employees’ Stories of Coping With Poor Indoor Air Quality in the Workplace
Authors: Loraas Dawn Marie
Published: April 2024

Objectives:

This phenomenological study aimed to elucidate the lived experiences of employees suffering from poor indoor air quality (IAQ) in their university workplace. It addresses gaps in understanding IAQ’s personal impacts from occupants’ perspectives.

Background:

Prior research on sick building syndrome and indoor air pollution utilized quantitative methods to assess physical health outcomes. However, few studies have adopted qualitative approaches to uncover the meanings ascribed to adverse IAQ experiences and their influences on psychosocial well-being.

Methods:

In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with five university employees who attributed their chronic illnesses to poor IAQ in their 60-year-old office building with a history of IAQ concerns. Verbatim transcripts were analyzed using qualitative techniques including thematic coding to extract key themes conveying shared experiences.

Results:

Employees depicted the building itself as fundamentally “sick” and stigmatized, compelling complex coping behaviors hindering productivity. Communication breakdowns, mistrust in leadership, and strained workplace relationships were prevalent. A sense of betrayal, powerlessness, and a sense of detachment from the workplace emerged with home as a refuge.

Conclusions:

Although technically adequate, poor IAQ profoundly damaged perceived health, quality of life, relationships, and satisfaction. The accounts emphasize IAQ’s psychosocial dimensions, advancing theoretical links between indoor environments and well-being. Supportive policies, transparency, communication, participatory processes, and human-centered strategies emerge as ways to nurture productivity, well-being, and organizational health.
The Computer-Mediated Online Round Robin (CMORR): An Online Method for Studying Impressions and Social Interactions
Authors: Hughes Bradley T. , Srivastava Sanjay
Published: April 2024

Research on impressions and social interactions has predominately examined perceptions of artificial stimuli or those made by convenience samples of undergraduates. In the present work, we introduce and validate a new experimental method, the Computer-Mediated Online Round Robin (CMORR), with the aim of providing researchers a tool to extend the study of interpersonal phenomena to more diverse populations. We describe the method and provide guidance for future CMORR studies. We collected CMORR data from an undergraduate sample ( N = 171), and compared the structure and accuracy of impressions of Big Five personality trait to two in-person studies; one with group interactions ( N = 225), one with dyadic interactions ( N = 511), and meta-analytic estimates from the literature. The results showed a general correspondence between impressions formed in online interactions and in in-person contexts. The findings support using CMORR to study general questions about impressions and social interactions.
A case of cardiac undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma in late pregnancy: A case report
Authors: Zhang Junlei , Lin Xiaoyan , Yang Yuanhui
Published: April 2024

Cardiac tumors are uncommon and most of them are benign. Although cases of malignant cardiac tumors are rare, it is still necessary to improve awareness in both clinical and pathological diagnosis. Since cardiac tumors often have a high degree of malignancy, it is vital to determine what form of intervention can increase recurrence-free survival and overall survival. In this paper, we report on a 42-year-old woman in the third trimester of pregnancy who had a cardiac undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma. According to her medical history, the patient had never had a cardiac tumor or any other disease. She was treated surgically and a left atrial mass was removed immediately after cesarean section. No other treatments were applied after the surgery, and, unfortunately, the tumor reoccurred 6 months later. We reviewed some literature and found one case in which the patient was treated using radiotherapy and survived for another 2 years after the third tumor recurrence. This suggests that neoadjuvant therapy effectively improves the survival rates of such patients.
The Effects of Trust, Distrust, and Motivation on Information Behaviors: The Cases of GM Food and Food Additives in China
Authors: Kim Jarim , Xu Linjia , Chon Myoung-Gi , Liu Jiaying
Published: April 2024

Food-related issues have recently become one of the most salient and controversial issues and have received increasing media and scholarly attention. This study examines the distinct effects of trust and distrust on the public’s information behaviors, specifically in the context of two food-related issues including GM food and food additives. This study employs a cross-sectional survey with 1,089 Chinese citizens. This study demonstrates that trust and motivation positively predicted information transmission behaviors (i.e., information sharing and forwarding) and information acquisition behaviors (i.e., information attending and seeking). Distrust, on the other hand, predicted only information transmission behaviors. Motivation’s effects on information acquisition behaviors were moderated by trust. This study contributes to the field of health information by expanding STOPS’ applicability to food-related risk contexts, conducting research with culturally distinct populations different from those featured in prior research, and distinguishing the roles of trust and distrust in influencing information behaviors.
Bond Integrity and Microleakage of Orthodontic Bands Cemented by Glass Ionomer Cements Stored in Static Magnetic Field
Authors: Al Qassar Sarmad S. Salih , Alkhayat Zainab I. , Al Mallah Mahmood R.
Published: April 2024

Aim:

Improving the band-tooth bond integrity by glass ionomer cement (GIC) is essential in orthodontic treatments. As, microleakage under bands induced enamel demineralization. Storing the dental material to updated magnets improved their mechanical properties. This research aimed to assess the microleakage of GIC after storing in a static magnetic field (SMF).

Material and Methods:

Forty premolars and their suitable bands were randomly classified into two main groups according to the types of GIC tested in this research; resin-modified GIC (RMGIC) and conventional GIC (CGIC). Each group was subdivided according to the exposure to SMF before polymerization into two subgroups. CGIC not exposed to SMF (CC), CGIC exposed to SMF (CM), RMGIC not exposed to SMF (LC) and RMGIC exposed to SMF (LM). SMF intensity performed was 0.225 Tesla, exposed for 48 hours at room temperature. The entire tube of RMGIC was inserted in SMF, where the powder of CGIC was stored in SMF. The microleakage under the band was evaluated under a 20× stereomicroscope by dye penetration technique at the cement band interface. Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used for data analysis, p ≤ .05.

Results:

The main (SD) microleakage of GIC reduced significantly ( p = .043) after being exposed to SMF from 3.1950 (0.632) mm to 1.7095 (0.1176) mm and from 0.8745 (0.1104) mm to 0.6430(0.094) mm for CGIC and RMGIC, respectively.

Conclusion:

Storing the CGIC powder in (0.225 T) SMF improves band-tooth bond integrity. Additionally, the preservation of RMGIC in SMF minimized the microleakage under orthodontic bands.
Cultural Governance: A Participatory Approach Towards Sustainable Heritage Management
Authors: Cruz Geoffrey Rhoel C.
Published: April 2024

The study explores the heritage management framework established by the Bopiliao Historic Block in Taipei, Taiwan, looking primarily at the methodologies employed to address the competing tensions between stakeholders. Through creative economy and heritage tourism, paved the way for cultural governance to become a significant tool of sustainable heritage management. The central purpose of the study is to present a case analysis of the Bopiliao Historic Block in Taipei, Taiwan, and the district of Escolta in Manila, Philippines, to demonstrate how cultural governance can generate a sustainable community-based cultural heritage preservation framework. Using the research methods of archival research and participant observation, the study was able to identify factors from the success story of the Bopiliao Historic Block in Taipei, Taiwan that can serve as learning points for the Escolta district in Manila, Philippines, to consider. The findings of the study reveal that it requires more than just the active participation of the civil society to develop a sustainable heritage management framework. Instead, it requires support from all the key stakeholders, and though the levels of support may vary, the major deciding factor is the recognition and acceptance of the historic and cultural value of the community.
Phenobarbital Dosing for the Treatment of Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Brooks Lindsay , Reinert Justin P.
Published: April 2024

Objective: To determine the most appropriate phenobarbital dosing regimen by evaluating the safety and efficacy of the drug when specifically used in alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS). Data sources: A comprehensive literary search was conducted using PubMed and bibliographic mining in October 2023. Study selection and data extraction: An established monotherapy phenobarbital regimen needed to be established within the article to be included in analysis. Location of implementation was not a deterrent to evaluation, nor was the route of phenobarbital administration. Data synthesis: Six publications were evaluated in this review, and two main phenobarbital dosing regimens emerged. While fix-based dosing strategies and weight-based dosing strategies resulted, the dosing within the regimens resulted in the same or relatively similar doses employed, respectively. Each of the studies had a statistically significant decrease in their primary outcome being studied, and the use of phenobarbital as monotherapy was proven to improve AWS symptoms, significantly decrease intensive care unit and hospital length of stay, decrease the use of adjunctive medications, decrease the use of a ventilator, and prevent seizures. Conclusions: Despite benzodiazepines having been the clinical first-line therapy for AWS, research shows that the pharmacokinetic stability and clinical benefits of phenobarbital are in support creation of phenobarbital protocols, as monotherapy, in hospitals or institutions for patients with AWS.
Integrative analysis of the metabolome and transcriptome provides insights into the mechanisms of lignan biosynthesis in Herpetospermum pedunculosum (Cucurbitaceae)
Authors: Zhu Ziwei , Chen Daihan , Sun Min , Xiao Maotao , Huang Peng , Ren Dongsheng , Yang Yixi , Zhang Zhen , Zhao Qi , Li Rui
Published: April 2024

Background

Herpetospermum pedunculosum (Ser.) C. B. Clarke is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine that heavily relies on the lignans found in its dried ripe seeds (Herpetospermum caudigerum), which have antioxidant and hepatoprotective functions. However, little is known regarding the lignan biosynthesis in H. pedunculosum. In this study, we used metabolomic (non-targeted UHPLC-MS/MS) and transcriptome (RNA-Seq) analyses to identify key metabolites and genes (both structural and regulatory) associated with lignan production during the green mature (GM) and yellow mature (YM) stages of H. pedunculosum.

Results

The contents of 26 lignan-related metabolites and the expression of 30 genes involved in the lignan pathway differed considerably between the GM and YM stages; most of them were more highly expressed in YM than in GM. UPLC-Q-TOF/MS confirmed that three Herpetospermum-specific lignans (including herpetrione, herpetotriol, and herpetin) were found in YM, but were not detected in GM. In addition, we proposed a lignan biosynthesis pathway for H. pedunculosum based on the fundamental principles of chemistry and biosynthesis. An integrated study of the transcriptome and metabolome identified several transcription factors, including HpGAF1, HpHSFB3, and HpWOX1, that were highly correlated with the metabolism of lignan compounds during seed ripening. Furthermore, functional validation assays revealed that the enzyme 4-Coumarate: CoA ligase (4CL) catalyzes the synthesis of hydroxycinnamate CoA esters.

Conclusion

These results will deepen our understanding of seed lignan biosynthesis and establish a theoretical basis for molecular breeding of H. pedunculosum.
Is a randomised controlled trial of take home naloxone distributed in emergency settings likely to be feasible and acceptable? Findings from a UK qualitative study exploring perspectives of people who use opioids and emergency services staff
Authors: Sampson FC , Hughes J , Long J , Buykx P , Goodacre SW , Snooks H , Edwards A , Evans Bridie , Jones Jenna , Moore Chris , Johnston Sasha
Published: April 2024

Objective

Distribution of take-home naloxone (THN) by emergency services may increase access to THN and reduce deaths and morbidity from opioid overdose. As part of a feasibility study for a randomised controlled trial (RCT) of distribution of THN kits and education within ambulance services and Emergency Departments (EDs), we used qualitative methods to explore key stakeholders’ perceptions of feasibility and acceptability of delivering the trial.

Methods

We undertook semi-structured interviews and focus groups with 26 people who use opioids and with 20 paramedics and ED staff from two intervention sites between 2019 and 2021. Interviews and focus groups were recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using Framework Analysis.

Results

People using opioids reported high awareness of overdose management, including personal experience of THN use. Staff perceived emergency service provision of THN as a low-cost, low-risk intervention with potential to reduce mortality, morbidity and health service use. Staff understood the trial aims and considered it compatible with their work. All participants supported widening access to THN but reported limited trial recruitment opportunities partly due to difficulties in consenting patients during overdose. Procedural problems, restrictive recruitment protocols, limited staff buy-in and patients already owning THN limited trial recruitment. Determining trial effectiveness was challenging due to high levels of alternative community provision of THN.

Conclusions

Distribution of THN in emergency settings was considered feasible and acceptable for stakeholders but an RCT to establish the effectiveness of THN delivery is unlikely to generate further useful evidence due to difficulties in recruiting patients and assessing benefits.
Secondary analyses of sex differences in attention improvements across three clinical trials of a digital therapeutic in children, adolescents, and adults with ADHD
Authors: Flannery Jessica E. , Hinshaw Stephen P. , Kollins Scott H. , Stamatis Caitlin A.
Published: April 2024

Background

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) remains underdiagnosed and undertreated in girls. Inattentive symptoms, often predominant in girls with ADHD, represent a key driver of impairment and often persist into adulthood. AKL-T01 is a regulated digital therapeutic targeting inattention. We examined potential sex differences in the efficacy of AKL-T01 in three separate trials for 1) children, 2) adolescents, and 3) adults.

Methods

We conducted secondary analyses of clinical outcomes by sex in three AKL-T01 randomized clinical trials in ADHD (n1 = 180 children 30.6% female, M(SD) age = 9.71 (1.32); n2 = 146 adolescents; 41.1% female, M(SD) age = 14.34 (1.26); n3 = 153 adults; 69.9% female, M(SD) age = 39.86 (12.84)). Active treatment participants used AKL-T01 for 25 min/day over 4–6 weeks. Primary outcomes included change in attention on the Test of Variables of Attention (TOVA) and symptom change on the clinician-rated ADHD Rating Scale (ADHD-RS). To evaluate study hypotheses, we conducted a series of robust linear regressions of TOVA and ADHD-RS change scores by sex, adjusting for baseline scores.

Results

In children, girls demonstrated greater improvement in objective attention relative to boys following AKL-T01 (TOVA Attentional Composite Score; Cohen’s d = .36 and Reaction Time Mean Half; Cohen’s d = .54), but no significant sex differences in ADHD rating scale change. We did not observe significant sex differences in outcomes in the adolescent or adult trials. Limitations include binary sex categorization and slight study design variation across the three samples.

Conclusion

AKL-T01 might notably improve attentional functioning in girls with ADHD relative to boys. Objective attention measures may be particularly important in the assessment of attentional improvement in childhood, given known gender biases in ADHD symptom reporting. We emphasize the importance of considering sex and gender-specific factors in ADHD treatment evaluation.

Trial registrations

STARS ADHD CHILD: ClinicalTrials.gov ID NCT03649074;

STARS ADHD ADOLESCENT: ClinicalTrials.gov ID NCT04897074;

STARS ADHD ADULT: ClinicalTrials.gov ID NCT05183919.
A qualitative study of the barriers to commissioning social and therapeutic horticulture in mental health care
Authors: Wood Carly J. , Morton Georgina , Rossiter Kathryn , Baumber Becs , Bragg Rachel E.
Published: April 2024

Background

Social and Therapeutic Horticulture (STH) is a process where trained practitioners work with plants and people to improve an individual’s physical and psychological health, communication and thinking skills. Evidence suggests that STH can support individuals with mental ill-health, however, current commissioning of STH within mental health care is limited. This study aimed to understand the barriers to commissioning STH in mental health care and to identify potential solutions to barriers, to support more widespread availability of services. 

Methods

Individuals with a role in mental health care commissioning from across the UK were invited to take part in semi-structured interviews via zoom. Interviews explored factors influencing the mental health services they commission or refer to, their perception of the role of STH in mental health care and the barriers to commissioning STH, together with potential solutions to any barriers identified.

Results

Commissioners identified a lack of knowledge of STH and evidence of its effectiveness, and a culture which prioritises traditional medical models, as barriers to commissioning. Challenges for STH providers in responding to large-scale commissioning requirements were also highlighted as a barrier.

Conclusions

To upscale commissioning of STH in mental health care, STH interventions need to be embedded within NHS priorities and information on STH services and their effectiveness needs to be easily accessible to practitioners. The sector should also be supported in working collaboratively to enable commissioning of services at scale.
Effect of Salvadora persica on resin-dentin bond stability
Authors: Abu-Nawareg Manar M. , Abouelseoud Hanan K. , Zidan Ahmed Z.
Published: April 2024

Background

The stability of resin–dentin interfaces is still highly questionable. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Salvadora persica on resin–dentin bond durability.

Materials and methods

Extracted human third molars were used to provide mid-coronal dentin, which was treated with 20% Salvadora persica extract for 1 min after acid-etching. Microtensile bond strength and interfacial nanoleakage were evaluated after 24 h and 6 months. A three-point flexure test was used to measure the stiffness of completely demineralized dentin sticks before and after treatment with Salvadora persica extract. The hydroxyproline release test was also used to measure collagen degradation by endogenous dentin proteases. Statistical analysis was performed using two-way ANOVA followed by post hoc Bonferroni test and unpaired t-test. P-values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Results

The use of Salvadora persica as an additional primer with etch-and-rinse adhesive did not affect the immediate bond strengths and nanoleakage (p > 0.05). After 6 months, the bond strength of the control group decreased (p = 0.007), and nanoleakage increased (p = 0.006), while Salvadora persica group showed no significant difference in bond strength and nanoleakage compared to their 24 h groups (p > 0.05). Salvadora persica increased dentin stiffness and decreased collagen degradation (p < 0.001) compared to their controls.

Conclusion

Salvadora persica extract pretreatment of acid-etched dentin preserved resin–dentin bonded interface for 6 months.

Clinical significance

Durability of resin-dentin bonded interfaces is still highly questionable. Endogenous dentinal matrix metalloproteinases play an important role in degradation of dentinal collagen within such interfaces. Salvadora persica may preserve resin-dentin interfaces for longer periods of time contributing to greater clinical success and longevity of resin composite restorations.
Dental caries prevalence in relation to the cardiovascular diseases: cross-sectional findings from the Iranian kurdish population
Authors: Ghanbari Zahra , Moradi Yousef , samiee Negin , Moradpour Farhad
Published: April 2024

Objective

Oral and dental health (ODH) is a significant public health concern globally, affecting billions of people. This cross-sectional study aimed to examine the prevalence of dental caries using the DMFT index and investigate its relationship with cardiovascular diseases in the Iranian Kurdish population.

Methods

A total of 3,996 individuals aged 35–70 years were included from the Dehgolan prospective cohort study (DehPCS). Clinical examinations were performed to assess decayed (DT), missing (MT) and filled (FT) teeth (DMFT index). Data on demographics, socioeconomic status, medical history, oral hygiene practices were also collected. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) history was self-reported via questionnaires assessing heart disease, heart attack and stroke. Logistic regression was used to assess associations between oral health indicators and self-reported CVD, adjusting for potential confounders.

Results

The mean DMFT score was 18.18 ± 19, indicating a high oral disease burden. Specifically, 60.04% had DT, 37.82% had more than 16 MT, and 38.83% had FT. Only 13.21% reported flossing regularly and 43.17% brushed less than daily, showing suboptimal oral hygiene. The overall CVD prevalence was 9.21%. Individuals with high DMFT (≥ 14) scores had approximately two times higher CVD prevalence than those with low DMFT. DMFT decreased by 10.23% with increase in education level, and by 5.87% as economic status increased In adjusted analyses, high DMFT scores (OR = 1.5, 95%CI: 1.2–1.9) and MT (OR = 1.5, 95%CI: 1.1–2.1) were associated with 50–150% increased odds of CVD, though associations weakened after adjusting for age. Among men, DMFT remained a significant predictor for CVD after age adjustment, with an odds ratio of 2.37 (95% CI: 1.22–4.60).

Conclusion

This population had substantial oral disease and poor oral hygiene. Higher DMFT scores and MT positively correlated with increased CVD prevalence. Promoting preventive oral care and health education could help reduce dental issues and potentially lower CVD risk. Further research is needed to clarify biological mechanisms linking oral and systemic health.