bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cultural Ecology and Agriculture in Rural Areas in Zimbabwe
Authors: Hodzi Blessing , Maheve Neil Batsirai
Published: March 2024

This chapter is concerned with indigenous wisdom in agriculture in rural Zimbabwe, with a particular focus Mutoko South and Guruve regions. It argues for the enduring presence of indigenous agricultural systems amidst a predominantly modernized, Western-influenced society. From land preparation to sowing, weed management, harvesting, and yield storage, this study underscores the resilience of indigenous agricultural practices. This chapter shed light on the crucial role of Indigenous knowledge systems (IKS) in fostering sustainable farming practices within Guruve and Mutoko South communities. Passed down through generations and deeply ingrained in daily routines, this knowledge has emerged as a vital tool for predicting weather patterns, managing pests, and enhancing soil fertility. It examines how people in Mutoko South and Guruve have steadfastly embraced traditional methods using qualitative methods. The study primarily involves interviews with 20 subsistence farmers residing in tribal trust lands in 10 villages.
Innovation and Industry Application
Authors: Kathirvel A.
Published: March 2024

The idea of the internet of things (IoT) is quickly developing and influencing new advancements in a variety of application domains, including the internet of mobile things (IoMT), autonomous internet of things (A-IoT) and the internet of robotic things (IoRT), among others. The IoT influence presents new design and implementation challenges in a variety of fields, including seamless platform integration, context-based cognitive network integration, new mobile sensor/actuator network paradigms, architectural domains for smart farming, infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, business, and commerce. Applications for automation in the internet of robotic things are numerous and are developing quickly. IoRT blends the strength of robots and the IoT, resulting in creative solutions for a range of sectors.
Executive Coaching for Organizational Success
Authors: Khalique Fehmina , Khan Nusrat , Saini Kartikay
Published: March 2024

The challenges presented in this chapter will develop an understanding for the coaching practitioners to bring in improvement in their existing practices. This will also help various organizations to understand the relevance of EC and its role in further strengthening leadership learning and development. The viewpoints of researchers presented may help the practicing coaches to be more thoughtful on their practice. This may further inspire independence and continuous relentless learning of coachees. Coachees becoming independent learners and coaches of themselves and others can help practitioners to justify their practice. This study emphasised the importance of role of leadership, organizational culture and support for interventions, training and development of coaches, motivation and self-efficacy to achieve positive outcome in coaching. The study also recommends ways to overcome these challenges to create an optimistic coaching knowledge and experience to further facilitate independence and self-directed continuous learning.
Applications of Artificial Intelligence in Environmental Resource Business Management and Sustainability
Authors: Naim Arshi , Mohammed Arshiya Begum , Fatima Numa , Khan Shad Ahmad , Alnfiai Mrim M. , Malik Praveen Kumar
Published: March 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) plays an important role in facilitating most of the decision-making processes by resolving conflicts and facilitating human communications. AI based applications have impacted the general businesses to a great level but its role in environmental resource management in businesses to achieve sustainably remains limited. This is due to the underlying cognitive state and complexity of environmental issues in business processes, along with the diversity of stakeholders' perspectives when dealing with commercial issues. The objective of this chapter is to illustrate the main components of AI and provide a guideline for the selection of suitable methods in business management and achieving environmental sustainability. The results show that AI applications can aid the involvement of stakeholders in the expedition of a state of resolution in order to reach a reciprocally substantial compatibility and bestow to familiar selection in environmental resource management and meet business needs in a profitable manner.
Applications of Artificial Intelligence in Sustainable Supply Chain Management in the Medical Sector
Authors: Khan Mohammad Ibrahim , Khan Mohammad Faiz
Published: March 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) stands as a remarkable and evolving technology, revolutionizing various domains. The primary aim of this research is to delve into the role of AI within sustainable supply chain management (SSCM). This study elucidates the applications of AI in SSCM, shedding light on how its utilization has paved new pathways for the future of SSCM. Additionally, it delves into the challenges that necessitate resolution for its effective implementation. AI plays a pivotal role in cost reduction, automation, increased productivity, and ultimately contributes to achieving economies of scale in supply chain management (SCM). The research offers a comprehensive framework tailored for the implementation of AI-based SSCM, specifically tailored for industries, particularly focusing on the healthcare sector (HST). For this study, qualitative analysis was employed, utilizing methods such as workshops and interviews with professionals and stakeholders in the healthcare sector within the Kingdom of Gulf (KSA).
Predicting Weather Conditions Using Machine Learning for Improving Crop Production
Authors: Kumari Shabnam , Muthulakshmi P.
Published: March 2024

Weather conditions play an important role in crop production and agricultural decision-making. Accurate prediction of weather conditions can help farmers make informed choices regarding planting, irrigation, and pest management, ultimately improving crop yield and reducing resource wastage. In recent years, machine learning techniques have shown promise in weather prediction due to their ability to analyze large amounts of data and detect complex patterns. This research aims to develop a machine learning model for predicting weather conditions to enhance crop production. The study utilizes historical weather data, including temperature, precipitation, wind speed, and humidity, obtained from various meteorological sources. Feature engineering techniques are applied to extract relevant information from the data, and preprocessing methods are employed to handle missing values and outliers. Several machines learning algorithms, including regression models, decision trees, and ensemble methods, are employed to train and evaluate the predictive models.
English in Higher Education
Authors: Bang Truong Cong
Published: March 2024

This chapter offers an overview of English education in Vietnam, examining socioeconomic, historical, and political influences on foreign language policies. Scrutiny of English's crucial role follows analysis of determinants fundamental in shaping higher education after “Doi Moi.” Substantial transformations encompassing diversity and internationalization have transpired, yet deficits in students' English proficiency have impeded modernization and global integration. The chapter examines practical implementation of English as a foreign language in Vietnamese tertiary education. Despite governmental efforts to elevate students' English, impediments including shortages of qualified educators, widespread deficient proficiency, an examination system focused on grammar, and Confucian pedagogical approaches have hindered the efficacy of English instruction and learning. It concludes with recommendations for Vietnamese authorities, academic institutions, and EFL educators to enhance the quality of English pedagogy.
6G Wireless Communication Networks
Authors: Haque Md. Alimul , Ahmad Sultan , Abboud Ali J. , Hossain Md. Alamgir , Kumar Kailash , Haque Shameemul , Sonal Deepa , Rahman Moidur , Marisennayya Senapathy
Published: March 2024

This paper presents a comprehensive survey of security needs, applications, and current challenges and threats for 6G wireless communication networks. 6G technology has brought much attention to business entities and academia recently. The development of a relevant 6G wireless technology to meet the security issues and technical challenges of 5G networks as well as major system upgrades over previous wireless technologies are discussed. The importance of the comparative study is estimated for security issues and communication of devices like wireless devices and focuses on creative innovations that would offer the progression changes required for empowering 6G. First, the authors present the evolution and security threats landscape of wireless communication networks. Then they explore the potential applications of 6G networking technologies. Finally, this paper concludes with a detailed discussion of security issues, research challenges, and possible solutions in 6G that enable critical technologies.
Stability Analysis of EPC Consortium Cooperation Based on Evolutionary Game
Authors: Hu Judan , Yao Yu , Gao Yuyang
Published: March 2024

Consortium contracting is a contracting model that China encourages and advocates. Due to the interest drive, members within the consortium are very prone to negative cooperation and midway withdrawal, which hinders the healthy development of the consortium. Therefore, this paper constructs a game model of EPC consortium cooperation evolution, analyzes the influence of different reward and punishment mechanisms on the cooperation of consortium members, and applies system dynamics to simulation. The results show that under the static reward and punishment and dynamic reward mechanism, the consortium cooperation is not stable; while under the dynamic punishment mechanism and the dynamic reward and punishment mechanism in which the maximum punishment is greater than the maximum reward, the evolution of consortium cooperation is gradually stable and the behavioral strategies are gradually unified. It also puts forward suggestions for measures conducive to stabilizing cooperation, which provide certain reference value for the internal management of consortium members' cooperation.
A Systematic Review of the Potential Influencing Factors for ChatGPT-Assisted Education
Authors: Xu Chuhan
Published: March 2024

Due to the swift advancement of artificial intelligence, the emergence of ChatGPT has garnered considerable attention within the educational sphere. The aim of the study is to conduct a systematic literature review concerning the potential factors of ChatGPT-assisted education, specifically focusing on learners' acceptance, the accessibility of communication, digital literacy, and motivation. Therefore, pertinent peer-reviewed articles (n=41) were identified using the preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis protocol (PRISMA-P) for subsequent exploration. The findings indicated that the potential influencing factors in four dimensions have positive contribution to the educational achievements facilitated by ChatGPT. The four primary influencing factors further include 14 sub-influencing factors. Future research may delve into the mode of feedback and the mode of interaction within the context of ChatGPT-facilitated learning and teaching.
The relationship between income, health insurance, and employment status as prognostic indicators of bladder cancer: A survival analysis
Authors: Djatisoesanto Wahjoe , Azmi Yufi Aulia , Yatindra Ida Bagus Gde Tirta Yoga
Published: March 2024

Background: Bladder cancer (BC) is one of the health problems. Socioeconomic status (SES) may correlate with patient treatment, possibly impacting patient prognosis. This study aimed to determine the relationship between income, health insurance, and employment status as prognostic indicators of BC. Methods: A retrospective observational study for patients diagnosed with BC in a hospital during the 5-year period between January 2019 and December 2023. Kaplan-Meier test analysis was used to generate overall survival curves stratified by income, employment status, and health insurance. Multivariate Cox proportional-hazards regression was used to identify factors associated with worse overall survival. Results: The results of the analysis on 219 patients showed no difference in patient survival based on income (p>0.05), while employment status and health insurance showed significant difference in patient survival (p<0.05). Moreover, there were 99 (45.2%) patients died, with the average patient being 58 years old and dominant in male patients. Conclusions: Prevention of poor outcomes in patients needs to pay attention to certain characteristics, particularly for the loweconomic patients without appropriate national health insurance coverage.
The Spectrum of First-onset Seizures in Children Presenting at a Tertiary Care Centre
Authors: Chagantipati Venkata Sai K , Bansal Utkarsh , Rathoria Ekansh , Singh Vijay , Gupta Nyay Bhai , Ahuja Ravindra
Published: March 2024

Introduction:

Seizure is the most common paediatric neurological condition with an increased predilection for early childhood. The recent definition of epilepsy includes first-onset seizures with an increased probability of future episodes. Thus, stringent evaluation of the initial episode of seizure is essential. Hence, this study estimated the aetiology, clinical profile, treatment and outcome of the first seizure episode in children at a tertiary hospital.

Materials and Methods:

This prospective observational study was carried out at a tertiary hospital in Barabanki, India. Children in the age group of 1 month to 12 years who presented with the first seizure episode and those admitted for other illnesses and developed the first seizure episode during hospital stay were included. Data collected were sociodemographics, clinical presentations, laboratory tests, brain imaging studies, electroencephalography (EEG), diagnosis, treatment and short-term outcomes.

Results:

A total of 113 patients were enrolled presenting with first-onset seizures. There were 78 (69%) males, 86 (76.1%) were below 5 years of age and 60 (53.1%) presented with fever. Most seizures had a generalised onset (58.4%). Febrile seizures (29.2%) were the most common type, followed by neurocysticercosis (20.3%). Central nervous system (CNS)-infective aetiology (58.7%) was the most common etiological classification. Abnormal findings were observed in cerebrospinal fluid examination of 24 out of 56, in brain imaging of 53 out of 80 and in EEG of 70 out of 113 cases examined. Anti-seizure medication (ASM) was prescribed to 68 patients, of which 10 had a recurrence in the 6-month follow-up period.

Conclusion:

The first episode of seizure in children usually had a generalised onset, with younger children of the male sex at an increased risk. CNS infections and febrile seizures were common causes. Complete history and neurological evaluation can guide the relevant investigations. ASM tailored to the aetiology controls the seizures in most cases.
Diagnosis of a case of X-linked agammaglobulinemia with juvenile idiopathic arthritis and recurrent pneumonia in Bangladesh
Authors: Sarker Avizit , Islam Mohammad Imnul , Nigar Ismet , Ali Md. Eunus , Roy Chandan Kumar
Published: March 2024

X-linked agammaglobulinemia (XLA) is a rare hereditary primary immunodeficiency disorder caused by mutation in the Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) gene located in the Xq22 region of the X chromosome. It is characterized by absolute or marked deficiency of matured B-cells in circulation as well as decreased in all immunoglobulin (Ig) classes. We have reported one case who is a 48-month-old boy and suffering from recurrent pneumonia, skin abscess, otitis media, and swelling of the left knee joint. His serum Ig levels showed an IgM level of <0.169 g/l, IgG 2.43 g/l, and IgA <0.256 g/l. Immunophenotyping of lymphocyte subsets showed an absence of B-cells. Intracellular BTK protein expression in monocytes by flow cytometry showed a markedly reduced mean fluorescence index which confirmed the diagnosis of XLA. Antibiotics with intravenous Ig therapy were started.
Contact Tracing for COVID-19 among Health-Care Workers of a Tertiary Care Hospital in Mumbai
Authors: Velhal Gajanan D. , Shah Anuradha Kunal , Dhanusu Subasri
Published: March 2024

Background:

Contact tracing (CT) is an effective tool for breaking the chains of transmission in infectious disease outbreaks. This study was conducted to observe the trend of isolation and quarantine, assess the source of infection and contacts, and assess the effectiveness of CT in the early detection of infection among health-care workers (HCWs).

Methods:

This study was conducted using secondary analysis of routine CT records of HCWs of a tertiary care hospital in Mumbai from April 9, 2020, to December 31, 2020. Details of all HCWs exposed or infected with COVID-19 were collected in a standard format developed for this purpose telephonically. The exposed HCWs were further divided into high-risk (HR)/low-risk (LR) contacts and quarantined.

Results:

A total of 744 HCWs were isolated during this period and 1486 contacts were quarantined against them. Majority of the HCWs affected from COVID-19 were resident doctors, interns, and nursing staff. More than 81% of the positive HCWs were symptomatic. The overall ratio between isolated HCWs and quarantined HCWs is 1:2. A total of 88 (6%) HCWs tested positive from quarantine. The test positivity rate among HR contacts was 9.01% and among LR contacts was 2.72%.

Conclusions:

Effective CT of positive HCWs greatly aids in the early identification of contacts and timely quarantine. Over a period of time, the number of HCWs getting isolated or quarantined is found to decrease. This is the true success of CT. This strategy can be implemented among other medical colleges and hospitals too.
Need to Study the Health Impact and Economics of Adult Vaccination with India in Focus
Authors: Faujdar Dharamjeet S , Kaushik Sushil K , Sharma Prafull , Yadav Arun K
Published: March 2024

Vaccination is undoubtedly the most effective and economical way of dealing with the diseases which can affect masses. Pediatric immunization against vaccine preventable disease (VPD) is being supported by most of the international health agencies, making them accessible and affordable to even the poorest of the countries. However, adult vaccination is needed to protect the most productive age group and improve the quality of life of the aging population and is left to those who can afford it. In most of the low- and middle-income countries including India, adult vaccination did not even find a mention in national vaccination policies. Although recommendation exists from various health associations in India for adult vaccination, they have not been given enough publicity as data on burden of VPDs and cost-effectiveness of these vaccines in adults are not available. Most of the general population and a substantial proportion of health care professionals in India lack awareness on the availability and need for these adult vaccinations. Now with improved childhood immunization and increased life expectancies, many diseases are showing epidemiological shift to the later part of life, thereby bringing the focus on adult immunization through the life course approach to reduce morbidity and mortality because of VPDs in adults and improve the quality of life of those left vulnerable because of aging or their existing medical condition.
The Effectiveness of SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination in Preventing Severe Illness and Death – Real-world Data from a Cohort of Patients Hospitalized with COVID-19
Authors: Sagiraju Hari Krishna Raju , Elavarasi Arunmozhimaran , Gupta Nishkarsh , Garg Rohit Kumar , Paul Saurav Sekhar , Vig Saurabh , Sirohiya Prashant , Ratre Brajesh , Garg Rakesh , Pandit Anuja , Singh Ram , Kumar Balbir , Meena Ved Prakash , Wig Naveet , Mittal Saurabh , Pahuja Sourabh , Madan Karan , Das Nupur , Dwivedi Tanima , Gupta Ritu , Wundavalli LaxmiTej , Singh Angel Rajan , Singh Sheetal , Mishra Abhinav , Pandey Manisha , Matharoo Karanvir Singh , Kumar Sunil , Mohan Anant , Guleria Randeep , Bhatnagar Sushma
Published: March 2024

Background:

While long-term studies on the correlates of protection, vaccine effectiveness, and enhanced surveillance are awaited for SARS-CoV-2 vaccine, studies on breakthrough infections help understand the nature and course of this illness among vaccinated individuals and guide in public health preparedness. This study aims to compare the differences in the hospitalization outcomes SARS-CoV-2 infection of fully vaccinated individuals with with those of unvaccinated and partially vaccinated individuals.

Materials and Methods:

Single institution observational cohort study. This study compared the differences in clinical, biochemical parameters and the hospitalization outcomes of 53 fully vaccinated individuals with those of unvaccinated (1464) and partially vaccinated (231) individuals, among a cohort of 2,080 individuals hospitalized with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Descriptive statistics and propensity-score weighted multivariate logistic regression analysis adjusting for clinical and laboratory parameters were used to compare the differences and to identify factors associated with outcomes.

Results:

Completing the course of vaccination protected individuals from developing severe COVID-19 as evidenced by lower proportions of those with hypoxia, abnormal levels of inflammatory markers, requiring ventilatory support, and death compared to unvaccinated and partially vaccinated individuals. There were no differences in these outcomes among patients who received either vaccine type approved in India.

Conclusions:

Efforts should be made to improve the vaccination rates as a timely measure to prepare for the upcoming waves of this highly transmissible pandemic. Vaccination rates of the communities may also guide in the planning of the health needs and appropriate use of medical resources.
Mortality Statistics in India
Authors: Kumar Rajesh
Published: March 2024

When plague epidemics swept India in the second half of the 19th century, there was an epidemiological need for mortality statistics; as a result, vital event registration systems were established. However, despite the existence of multiple sources of mortality statistics in many ministries/departments of the government, neither the number of deaths nor the causes of deaths reported annually are complete yet. Multilateral international organisations have supported modelling for the generation of mortality statistics in developing countries rather than supporting and funding the development of real-time mortality data. With specific initiatives for decentralising the registration process to primary health centres and sub-health centres, the civil registration system despite its flaws, can be improved for gathering accurate data on mortality, including the causes of deaths.
Profile, Quality of Life and the Client Satisfaction of Beneficiaries Registered under Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) at an Urban Primary Health Centre, Ahmedabad
Authors: Sharma Rashmi , Bhatt Gneyaa , Bakshi Harsh , Oza Divyang , Dave Roshni , Pirzada Azbah , Jani Dharati , Bapat Nirav , Mehta Rajesh
Published: March 2024

Background:

Under Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK), children (0–18 years) are screened for a spectrum of 30 health conditions, categorized under 4D’s namely defect (birth), disease (chronic), deficiency disorders, and developmental delay, and referred for treatment at higher centers. The aim of this study is to document demographic, clinical profile of children detected with any of 4D’s during 2018–20 at one Urban Primary health center to assess their Quality of Life (QOL) and client satisfaction.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 102 children <18 years were selected as per Probability Proportionate to Size for different 4D’s; within each category required participants were selected randomly. Information was gathered on designed semi-structured proforma. For QOL, customized World Health organization Quality of Life Brief (WHO-BREF) Questionnaire tool was used. Client satisfaction about the RBSK was assessed among RBSK users (N = 46) with Likert scale.

Result:

Out of 102 cases, 97 were covered including 8 with more than 1 type of 4Ds. Majority beneficiaries were male (53.1%), from 5 to 10 years age (43.8%), and middle social class (52%). Congenital defects (48.5%) especially heart defects were the most common followed by deficiency disorders (40.2%) mostly severe anemia and/or severe acute malnutrition. Out of 46 who availed RBSK services, 82.6% rated service as very good or good. Most children (81.7%) had good QOL.

Conclusion:

Most detected 4D’s belonged to school going age and middle class. They rated program as very good or good. Congenital defects, specifically heart defects were the most common. Overall, most children (81.7%) had good QOL.
Introducing Communication Skills Training among Interns using Attitude, Ethics, and Communication Module
Authors: Kalia Meenu , Rohilla Ravi , Virk Amrit , Goel Naveen Krishan
Published: March 2024

Background:

Communication skills are the backbone for patient care services such as patient interviews, counseling the patient, and explaining treatment options. The present study was conceived to evaluate the communication training program and perceptions of medical interns and faculty regarding the same.

Methodology:

Sixty medical interns were included in this cross-sectional study. Training on communication skills was imparted which was later assessed on the basis of Kalamazoo scale. Attitude of the interns regarding communication skill training was assessed using Rees and Sheard Scale. The attitude of faculty regarding introduction of communication skill was also assessed.

Results:

The mean score on Kalamazoo Consensus Scale was 19.65 ± 4.97 with a range of 10–29. Females had a higher score (21.09 ± 5.80) as compared to males (17.88 ± 3.21), but this was not statistically significant (P = 0.157). The mean score for positive and negative attitude scale was 59.15 ± 5.51 and 25.20 ± 9.60.

Conclusion:

The ability to communicate effectively is a core competency expected of medical graduates and communication skills training of medical students and interns with the help of didactic lectures, role plays, and videos, etc., can go a long way in improving their communication skills.
Evaluation of minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration of royal jelly against Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans
Authors: Mahale Vivek Devidas , Sharma Sonali
Published: March 2024

Objective:

The objective of this study was to ascertain the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of royal jelly (RJ) against three microorganisms frequently linked with endodontic infections: Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, and Candida albicans.

Materials and Methods:

Freshly harvested RJ was prepared at different concentrations (20%, 10%, 5%, 2.5%, and 1.25%) in distilled water. The microbial cultures of the target organisms were prepared. MIC was determined using a broth dilution technique, monitoring microbial growth. MBC was determined by inoculating agar plates with samples from tubes showing no apparent growth and evaluating the presence of bacterial or fungal growth following the incubation period.

Results:

For S. aureus, the MIC and MBC were 5 mg/ml of RJ. For E. faecalis, the MIC and MBC were 10 mg/ml of RJ. For C. albicans, both MIC and MBC were 10 mg/ml of RJ. The findings demonstrated RJ’s potential to inhibit and eliminate these pathogenic microorganisms, making it a potential candidate for endodontic infection control.

Conclusion:

The antimicrobial properties of RJ against S. aureus, E. faecalis, and C. albicans present a promising avenue for enhancing infection control in endodontics. Additional investigations are needed to refine its use in clinical settings, especially in cases with mixed microbial infections.
Influence of access cavity design on root canal instrumentation efficacy in molars – An in vitro study
Authors: Chandolu Vedamani , Mandava Jyothi , Borugadda Roopesh , Sirisha Kantheti , Kumar Konagala Ravi , Goteti Sameera , Nallamilli Lalitha Sri Roja
Published: March 2024

Background:

Several designs of access cavity have been evolved in the recent past with the concept of minimal tooth tissue removal which would improve the root canal treated teeth fracture resistance.

Aim:

To investigate the effect of conservative design access cavity during the instrumentation of maxillary molar root canals.

Materials and Methods:

Eighty noncarious maxillary molars were assigned to the traditional and conservative access groups (n = 40 each). After designated access preparations, the teeth were immersed in Lugols’s solution for staining the pulp tissue. Root canal instrumentation was performed with TruNatomy file system. Pre- and postinstrumentation nano-computed tomography (CT) images were taken and reconstructed using CT-An software. Root canals volumetric analysis was done with CT-Vol software. The analysis of the data was dealt with Shapiro–Wilk test and independent t-test.

Results:

The volume of pulp canal space before and after instrumentation changed significantly between the traditional and conservative access design groups, according to an independent t-test. In comparison, the mean volume of dentin removed was much larger in the TAC group (P = 0.0016). The independent t-test manifests difference significantly between traditional endodontic access cavity (TAC) and conservative access cavity (CAC) with percentage of unprepared canal walls. The mean percentage of unprepared area was significantly lesser in TAC group as compared to CAC group (P = 0.0022).

Conclusion:

The volume of dentin removed was greater in TAC than with the CAC design. The amount of untouched canal wall area was significantly higher in conservative access design than with the traditional access design group.
Color match of single-shade restorations after professional dental bleaching: An in vitro study
Authors: Forabosco Eleonora , Generali Luigi , Mancuso Edoardo , Kaleci Shaniko , Consolo Ugo , Checchi Vittorio
Published: March 2024

Background:

Restorative dentistry aims to reproduce natural tooth shades through resin composites that must be layered to obtain colors, opacities, and translucencies, and therefore, clinical success is operator skill dependent.

Aims:

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the color shift of single-shade composite restorations before and after dental bleaching.

Materials and Methods:

Eighty human extracted posterior teeth were restored with four single-shade composites (Omnichroma OM; Clearfil Majesty ES-2 Universal CL; Essentia Universal ES; Venus Diamond One VE) (n = 20 each). Standardized V class cavities were prepared on buccal side. VITA Easyshade V spectrophotometer was used to register VITA color and color coordinates 24 h before (T0), 24 h after (T1), and 1 week after (T2) dental bleaching (Opalescence Boost PF 40%). Color differences (ΔEab) and (ΔWID) were calculated and subjected to statistical analysis.

Statistical Analysis:

Categorical variables were analyzed using Pearson Chi-square, and data from color coordinates were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance and Tukey’s multiple comparison test with Bonferroni correction. Paired t-tests were performed to compare continuous measures between groups and treatment time.

Results:

Instrumental evaluations revealed statistically significant differences between materials (P < 0.05) with lower values for ES and VE samples followed by CL and OM at T0 and T1. At T2, OM and CL ΔEab values decrease getting closer to ES and VE.

Conclusion:

Single-shade composites seem to match with the surrounding bleached tooth.
Retreatability of NeoSEALER Flo obturated with warm vertical compaction versus single-cone technique using two different retreatment systems
Authors: Elzanaty Toka Kamaleldeen , Elashiry Mohamed M. , Mahran Abeer Hashem
Published: March 2024

Aim:

The aim of this study was to compare the retreatability of NeoSEALER Flo obturated with warm vertical compaction (WVC) and single-cone (SC) techniques using two different retreatment systems.

Materials and Methods:

Thirty-two root canals were shaped and obturated with NeoSEALER Flo either in an SC obturation technique or a WVC technique. Samples were retreated using ProTaper retreatment or EdgeFile XR retreatment system. The percentage of remaining debris after retreatment was analyzed under a scanning electron microscope using ImageJ software. The time taken to reach full working length (WL) and induce patency was recorded.

Statistical Analysis:

Statistical analysis was performed using an unpaired t-test and a one-way analysis of variance test.

Results:

The percentage of remaining debris after retreatment was significantly higher in the SC technique than in the WVC technique, regardless of the retreatment system used. EdgeFile XR system removed more filling material than the ProTaper retreatment system, regardless of the obturation technique. The apical region showed significantly higher remaining debris than other regions in all groups. The WL and patency were achieved faster in the SC group, while in the WVC group, the EdgeFile XR system was faster.

Conclusions:

The WVC technique showed better retrieval of the filling material; however, a longer time was taken for retreatment. EdgeFile XR system performed better in removing filling materials from inside the canals.
Evaluation of cytotoxicity and adaptability of a novel bioceramic root canal sealer: An in vitro and scanning electron microscope study
Authors: Emam Soha Alaa , Mahran Abeer Hashem , Elshafei Marwa Mokbel
Published: March 2024

Context:

Cytotoxicity and adaptability are among the highly imperative tests that should be performed on a novel endodontic material to ensure its successful implementation in endodontic treatment.

Aims:

Assess a recently introduced bioceramic root canal sealer CeramoSeal with TotalFill BC and AH plus sealers regarding the cytotoxicity and adaptability.

Materials and Methods:

Five sealer discs were prepared for each sealer and their extracts were cultured in 96-well plates containing human fibroblasts for 24 h. After their incubation, MTT solution was added to each well plate using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay plate reader was implemented to calculate the percentage of viable cells. Thirty mandibular single-rooted premolars were prepared using the Edge Endo rotary system, teeth were divided into three groups (n = 10) based on the sealer type: Group 1 CeramoSeal, Group 2 Totalfill, and Group 3 AH plus sealer. Teeth were sectioned longitudinally and viewed under a scanning electron microscope where the region with the gaps was identified and quantified as a percentage of the root canal’s overall area.

Statistical Analysis:

One-way ANOVA test was used for cytotoxicity, while Kruskal–Wallis and Friedman’s tests were used for adaptability.

Results:

Ceramoseal statistically significantly showed the lowest viability, at high concentrations AH plus showed the highest cell viability, while at lower concentration Totalfill BC sealer showed the highest cell viability percentage. The gap percentages were statistically significantly higher in Ceramoseal group, there was no statistically significant difference between AH Plus and Totalfill groups.

Conclusions:

Ceramoseal sealer exhibited the lowest viability and highest gap percentage compared to the other sealers.
A High-grade Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage in the Peripartum Period
Authors: Shaikh Nissar , Saadeddin Adnan , Ummunnisa Firdos , Amara Umm-e , Thabet Abdulnasser , Nahid Seema
Published: March 2024

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is a rare but devastating complication with increased morbidity and mortality. It is still unclear whether the incidence is increased during pregnancy and in the peripartum period. However, the incidence of cerebral aneurysmal rupture is higher during the third trimester than in the first trimester. The risk of aneurysmal rupture and subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) during general anesthesia or spinal anesthesia is unclear. We report a case of left supraclinoid aneurysm rupture after spinal anesthesia for Low Segment Caesarean Section (LSCS) in the immediate postpartum period causing high-grade aSAH.
An Institutional Survey to Assess and Create Awareness of Inter-dental Cleaning Aids among the Patients Visiting a Dental Hospital in Ahmedabad
Authors: Sathwara Jinay D. , Chaudhary Ashish Kaur , Patel Eshita , Parikh Hiral Akshat , Bhattacharjee Sirsha , Gajjar Rajat , Mehta Dhaval Niranjan
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT

Objectives:

To assess and evaluate the knowledge, awareness, and usage of inter-dental aids among the patients visiting a dental hospital.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among patients using a questionnaire for evaluation of routine oral hygiene regimens.

Results:

89% of patients brush their teeth only once a day. 77% of patients do not use any inter-dental aid, while 76% of patients are unaware about inter-dental aids.

Conclusion:

A very small part of the population is aware about the importance of using inter-dental aids in maintaining proper oral hygiene. Dentists play a key role in educating the society and encouraging them to use other aids apart from toothbrushes to prevent oral diseases.
Exploring the Role of Technology in the Implementation of Social Accountability in Medical Education: A Brief Review
Authors: Shrivastava Saurabh RamBihariLal , Gajbe Ujwal , Singh Brij Raj , Shrivastava Prateek Saurabh , Bankar Nandkishor J
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT

Social accountability has been acknowledged as an important facet of medical education delivery as it envisages that healthcare professionals have the responsibility to be accountable for health-related community needs. The purpose of the current review is to identify the factors that determine the success of social accountability in medical education and explore different ways in which technology can aid in the implementation of social accountability initiatives in medical institutions. The successful implementation of socially accountable medical education depends on a broad gamut of factors, which can be associated with different stakeholders, including the role of technology in facilitating the implementation of the same. Owing to the fact that technology has reached every aspect of human life, it is our responsibility to explore its scope in promoting the attainment of competencies pertaining to social accountability among medical students. In conclusion, social accountability in medical education has multiple benefits and has emerged as the need of the hour. The integration of technology into socially accountable medical education plays a defining role in improving the effectiveness of educational activities, facilitating better community and student engagement, and eventually contributing to the production of socially responsible healthcare professionals.
Exploring the Scope of Theater of the Oppressed in Medical Education
Authors: Shrivastava Saurabh RamBihariLal , Shrivastava Prateek Saurabh , Bankar Nandkishor J
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT

Theater of the oppressed has been regarded as a dynamic tool to bring about social change and empowerment of the audience. This theatrical exposure to medical students plays a significant role in the delivery of comprehensive training to medical students, which is not only restricted to clinical knowledge but extends to cultural and interpersonal skills to ensure the delivery of comprehensive patient care. In conclusion, the theater of the oppressed has the potential to prepare empathetic and compassionate medical practitioners. To augment the quality of healthcare delivery, this kind of exposure can help medical students in bridging the gap between theory and clinical practice.
Adoption of a Comprehensive Approach to Overcome the Challenges Involved in the Implementation of Social Accountability in Medical Education: A Brief Review
Authors: Shrivastava Saurabh RamBihariLal , Shrivastava Prateek Saurabh , Wanjari Mayur
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT

In the field of delivery of medical education, social accountability envisages the responsibility of medical and healthcare institutions to meet the health-related needs of the communities in the catchment areas. The medical colleges that have integrated social accountability in their curriculum work with a goal to produce not only knowledgeable and skilled medical graduates but also those who are committed to the well-being of the entire community. The process of implementation of social accountability in medical education can have its own share of challenges. There is an immense need to plan and implement potential solutions for each of the identified challenges to ensure maximum benefit to the students, teachers, and community at large. In conclusion, social accountability in medical education has been associated with multiple benefits to all the involved stakeholders. This calls for the need to identify the challenges that can play their part in the successful implementation in medical schools and employment of appropriate measures to overcome them and move thereby bringing about a decline in health disparity.
A Study to Assess the Role of Psychological Stress in the Severity of Oral Lichen Planus, OSMF, and Leukoplakia and its Correlation with Serum Cortisol Levels
Authors: Khan Saba , Mehta Dhaval N. , Jain Pooja , Somani Saurabh , Pathan Mohammed A. , Thakkar Helly , Agrawal Swati
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

The most prevalent oral mucosal conditions in humans are leukoplakia, oral lichen planus (OLP), and oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF). These conditions should be studied as psychosomatic conditions, but little research has been done on how these conditions relate to stress.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 280 patients of both genders with ages 35–60 years were divided into four groups: leukoplakia, OSMF, OLP, and control. Whole blood samples were collected from all the participants and analyzed for serum cortisol by using ELISA with a commercial kit. Detailed case history and DASS-21 questionnaire were recorded for psychological assessment. To assess the variables, the student t test and Chi-square test were used. P values of <0.05 were regarded as significant.

Results:

In this study, it was found that higher levels of serum cortisol were found in OLP patients, with advanced erosive lesions showing the highest levels of serum cortisol, followed by OSMF and leukoplakia. Patients with Oral Lichen Planus showed higher levels of stress, anxiety and depression than patients of OSMF and leukoplakia.

Conclusion:

This study emphasized stress and anxiety as a predisposing factor in the occurrence and progression of OSMF apart from re-establishing the role of stress and anxiety in OLP with consideration to depression in triggering role for OLP. Furthermore, it demonstrated that serum cortisol levels play a significant role as an indicator of psychological stress.
Prehospital stroke care in Singapore
Authors: Lam Timothy Jia Rong , Liu Zhenghong , Tan Benjamin Yong-Qiang , Ng Yih Ying , Tan Colin Kaihui , Wong Xiang Yi , Venketasubramanian Narayanaswamy , Yeo Leonard Leong Litt , Ho Andrew Fu Wah , Ong Marcus Eng Hock
Published: March 2024

Due to the narrow window of opportunity for stroke therapeutics to be employed, effectiveness of stroke care systems is predicated on the efficiency of prehospital stroke systems. A robust prehospital stroke system of care that provides a rapid and well-coordinated response maximises favourable poststroke outcomes, but achieving this presents a unique set of challenges dependent on demographic and geographical circumstances. Set in the context of a highly urbanised first-world nation with a rising burden of stroke, Singapore’s prehospital stroke system has evolved to reflect the environment in which it operates. This review aims to characterise the current state of prehospital stroke care in Singapore, covering prehospital aspects of the stroke survival chain from symptom onset till arrival at the emergency department. We identify areas for improvement and innovation, as well as provide insights into the possible future of prehospital stroke care in Singapore.
Sympathetic ophthalmia or Vogt–Koyanagi–Harada disease: Don’t judge a book by its cover
Authors: De Simone Luca , Ragusa Emanuele , Bolletta Elena , Gozzi Fabrizio , Gentile Pietro , Fontana Luigi , Cimino Luca
Published: March 2024

A 17-year-old female patient of Asian origin presented to the Ocular Immunology Unit of Reggio Emilia Hospital in July 2017, complaining of nausea, vomiting, low-grade fever, tinnitus, and headache going on for 3 days, followed by the appearance of blurred vision in the left eye. Three months before (April 2017) she had a history of penetrating keratoplasty in the right eye for a diagnosis of Acanthamoeba keratitis unresponsive to antiamoebic therapy. The clinical examination exhibited a picture of bilateral panuveitis with papillitis and exudative detachment of the retinal neuroepithelium. The diagnostic workup excluded a possible infectious etiology and showed the positivity of the human leukocyte antigen-DR4. Magnetic resonance imaging showed leptomeningeal inflammatory involvement and lumbar puncture revealed lymphocytic pleocytosis. Considering the history of trauma, Vogt–Koyanagi–Harada disease was ruled out and the diagnosis of sympathetic ophthalmia was made. The patient was treated with topical and oral steroids combined with mycophenolate mofetil for long-term control of the disease. The subsequent 18-month follow-up showed an excellent clinical response with a marked improvement in the ocular findings.
Vehicle Type Classification with Small Dataset and Transfer Learning Techniques
Authors: Pham Quang-Tu , Pham Dinh-Dat , Can Khanh-Ly , Dao To Hieu , Vu Hoang-Dieu
Published: March 2024

This study delves into the application of deep learning training techniques using a restricted dataset, encompassing around 400 vehicle images sourced from Kaggle. Faced with the challenges of limited data, the impracticality of training models from scratch becomes apparent, advocating instead for the utilization of pre-trained models with pre-trained weights. The investigation considers three prominent models—EfficientNetB0, ResNetB0, and MobileNetV2—with EfficientNetB0 emerging as the most proficient choice. Employing the gradually unfreeze layer technique over a specified number of epochs, EfficientNetB0 exhibits remarkable accuracy, reaching 99.5% on the training dataset and 97% on the validation dataset. In contrast, training models from scratch results in notably lower accuracy. In this context, knowledge distillation proves pivotal, overcoming this limitation and significantly improving accuracy from 29.5% in training and 20.5% in validation to 54% and 45%, respectively. This study uniquely contributes by exploring transfer learning with gradually unfreeze layers and elucidates the potential of knowledge distillation. It highlights their effectiveness in robustly enhancing model performance under data scarcity, thus addressing challenges associated with training deep learning models on limited datasets. The findings underscore the practical significance of these techniques in achieving superior results when confronted with data constraints in real-world scenarios