bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Digital Occlusion Technology's Capacity to Prevent Implant Complications Within Contemporary Digital Workflows
Authors: Oshetski James A.
Published: November 2024

The relationship between occlusion and biological and technical complications in dental implant rehabilitations has been well established. Many clinicians are wary of occlusal issues, yet fail to properly diagnose and manage ongoing occlusal concerns that may mitigate dental implant complications. Peri-implantitis, implant failure, abutment screw loosening, and prosthetic breakage are among a few of these concerns. While protocols for an implant-protected occlusion and proper implant prostheses occlusal force distribution are routinely recommended, rarely is the importance of the T-Scan 10 digital occlusal technology mentioned as a force control standard. Instead, only traditional marking papers are used, which measure no occlusal forces in any quantifiable way. New guidelines should include digital occlusal analysis technology in the dental implant workflow because of the inaccuracy and subjectivity of traditional marking papers. This chapter will address occlusion's role in prosthetic and biologic implant complications, and detail strategies for complication prevention using specific occlusal schemes that incorporate the T-Scan 10 technology as an integral part of the dental implant digital workflow. These recommended occlusal schemes accommodate the prosthetic differences when implant prostheses oppose solely implants, or oppose natural teeth, or soft tissue with an opposing complete denture, or when implants lie between natural teeth, with the occlusal goals to minimize the potential for post-insertion prosthetic complications. Three very detailed implant prosthetic case examples illustrate how navigated surgery and restoratively-driven implant placements are guided by merging CBCT images with intraoral anatomic dental scans. Then at insert, these differing implant prostheses were installed with T-Scan 10 occlusal force level and occlusal contact time-sequence control, which markedly improved the preciseness of the installed prosthetic occlusion. This computer-guided case insert directly promotes implant prosthesis survivability, as damaging occlusal force levels and problematic occlusal contact surface friction are first isolated, and then measurably removed from the implant patient's daily functional movements. Unfortunately, these same occlusal force and timing aberrations that T-Scan isolates for the clinician cannot be detected by traditional, non-digital occlusal indicators, and are often unknowingly left in place after articulating paper/shim stock-only case insert by the clinician. They then go unchecked during the implant patient's functional movements, frequently resulting in mechanical and biologic implant complications.
Digital Occlusion's Role in Implant Rehabilitation
Authors: Lerner Henriette
Published: November 2024

Contemporary implant rehabilitations are aesthetically driven. Consequently, digital planning and guided surgery deliver higher predictability and precision, than do analog procedures. The aim of this chapter is to show the integration of digital occlusion in the different phases of full arch implant rehabilitation with immediate implant placement and immediate loading procedures. Digital occlusal analysis raises the precision of functional occlusal adjustments, while improving the long-term predictability and stability of both case function and aesthetics. This chapter will present a systematic digital workflow detailing every stage of full arch rehabilitation treatment while showcasing digital occlusal diagnosis with the T-Scan system, to install a precise implant prosthesis occlusal scheme. A full arch rehabilitation case involving immediate implant placement and immediate implant loading will be presented that was occlusally finished with the T-Scan. And, important new mechanical implant complications research that tested T-Scan measured digital occlusion case insertions against articulating paper only case insertions, is also detailed. The authors found that a measured approach with T-Scan to guide the adjusted occlusal contacts statistically lessened common mechanical complications that continue to plague the implant Digital Workflow. The chapter concludes with a detailed pictorial explanation of how to clinically perform the T-Scan + Articulating Paper method that was used in the mechanical complications research study to select the correct articulating paper marks where implant occlusal contacts are force overloaded.
T-Scan Digital Occlusal Analysis Applications in Orthodontics
Authors: Koval Svitlana
Published: November 2024

Orthodontic outcomes have been extensively graded to ensure optimal aesthetic and functional results. Several grading systems are used worldwide, with the most being the American Board of Orthodontics objective grading system (ABO-OGS) and the peer assessment rating (PAR). The ABO-OGS has been shown in recent orthodontic studies to highly correlate with T-Scan digital occlusion analysis parameters, where post-orthodontic patients demonstrated worse excursive movement parameters compared to non-orthodontically treated patients. Additionally, one static occlusion T-Scan parameter (the Anterior/Posterior % ratio) was correlated to the presence of significant anterior overbites and the presence of a Class II Angle Classification. As such, the Specific Aims of this chapter are to describe the T-Scan parameters of orthodontic patients treated with different techniques (fixed appliances on the buccal or lingual, and clear aligner treatment), and compare those results against the differing orthodontic grading systems. Moreover, this chapter will describe in detail how fixed appliance orthodontic therapy when combined with T-Scan digital occlusal analysis improves orthodontic treatment outcomes prior to debanding. Additionally, this chapter will illustrate how T-Scan, when used during clear aligner treatment planning, and in the refinement stages when additional aligners are often required, can markedly improve clear aligner outcomes, as well.
Biometrically-Driven Orthodontic Treatment Using the Biocreative Orthodontic Strategy (BOS)
Authors: Kim Seong-Hun
Published: November 2024

When determining the appropriate time for orthodontic treatment, a traditional clinical examination, a model evaluation, 2D and 3D radiographic assessments, and determining the relationship between the TMJ and masticatory muscles, are all necessary. This is especially true with patients who present with anatomic limitations, such as root resorption, alveolar bone loss, extremely thin alveolar bone around the teeth, an unstable mandibular position with TMD symptoms, and when there exists tripod collapse. The Biocreative Orthodontic Strategy (BOS) independently targets the moving of teeth, and/or the bone, or the soft tissues, using temporary skeletal anchorage devices, while avoiding unnecessary orthodontic appliances, to treat only the dental segments that will definitively benefit from orthodontic treatment. Often, this approach can be an effective solution for the complicated orthodontic patient. In addition to employing 2D or 3D cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), Biocreative orthodontics (BOS) focuses on finding actual problem occlusal contacts by combining T-Scan 10 computerized occlusal force analysis with electromyography (EMG), joint vibration analysis (JVA), and 3-dimensional jaw tracking (EGN), as well as performing a dynamic sleep analysis. This biometrically-driven orthodontic approach leads to an integrated diagnosis, a definite treatment plan, and ultimately to the orthodontic treatment itself. This methodology has been termed, “Multifactor Malocclusion Services (MMS).” This chapter will introduce Biocreative Orthodontics by describing its' key principles, treatment concepts, treatment effects, and then illustrating how innovatively it corrects complicated orthodontic cases with solely tooth movement (without orthognathic surgery), directed by an MMS biometrically-driven diagnosis.
A Systematic Review on Biopsychosocial Impact of Climate Change on Women's Health and Well-Being
Authors: Pharswan Shreya , Pipaliya Urvashi , Singh Ravindra
Published: November 2024

In today's world, climate change is a potential threat to women's health and well-being. The climate crisis impacts women's health through various sources. Women are increasingly vulnerable to physical, emotional, social, and psychological health outcomes. The United Nations (UN) has acknowledged that current changes in temperature and atmosphere due to climate change have a significant effect on various aspects of women's health. In this light, the purpose of this book chapter is to highlight the importance of the biological, psychological, and social impact of climate change on women's health. By thoroughly examining these studies, we aim to give a comprehensive conclusion of the complex relationship between climate change and women's health and well-being. Results underline the necessity of fostering an interdisciplinary approach to policy development to focus on women's overall health and development. In conclusion, this study successfully enhances our understanding of women's health and drives meaningful action in research and real-world applications.
Climate Change and Health Resilient Systems
Authors: Kurebwa Jeffrey , Kurebwa Nyasha Yvonne
Published: November 2024

The impacts of climate change pose serious threats to public health and healthcare systems globally. Extreme weather events, rising temperatures, shifting disease patterns, and other climate-driven changes are straining the ability of communities to protect human health and well-being. This book chapter explores the critical need to build health-resilient systems that can withstand and adapt to the challenges of a changing climate. Pathways through which climate change affects human health, including direct impacts from heatwaves, wildfires, and natural disasters, as well as indirect impacts on food and water security, the spread of infectious diseases, and population displacement. Practical guidance to policymakers, public health practitioners, healthcare administrators, and community leaders on how to build the adaptive capacity needed to protect human health in the era of climate change. Taking proactive steps to enhance health resilience, communities can reduce their vulnerability and ensure equitable access to quality healthcare, in the face of intensifying climate impacts.
The Impact of Climate Change on Persons With Disabilities
Authors: Kurebwa Jeffrey , Kurebwa Nyasha Yvonne
Published: November 2024

The purpose of the chapter is to provide an understanding of the impact of climate change on persons with disabilities. The concepts of climate change, climate adaptation, ableism, and models of persons with disabilities are discussed in greater detail. The chapter shows that persons with disabilities are seriously affected by climate change and provides recommendations that can be taken by various actors to reduce the impact of climate change on persons with disabilities. These include ensure meaningful participation of persons with disabilities and their representative organizations across the climate change policymaking and planning cycle at all levels, keep investing in strengthening inclusive approaches in high-impact sectors that offer greater potential for building climate-resilient and inclusive societies and promote a programmatic approach to climate resilience that is holistic and equitable, integrating social, economic, health, and climate considerations and generating far-reaching benefits for all vulnerable groups.
Air Conditioning for Healthier Living
Authors: Akhai Shalom , Abbass Mahapara
Published: November 2024

The chapter explores the role of air conditioning technology in promoting healthier living environments amid climate change. It discusses the impact of climate change on indoor air quality (IAQ) and its implications for human health. It suggests a multifaceted approach, including ventilation, source control, air purification, and moisture regulation. It also proposes climate change adaptation strategies, such as advanced air conditioning systems and early warning systems. The chapter highlights risks associated with traditional cooling methods, particularly for vulnerable populations. Technological advancements like HEPA filters and solar-powered systems are suggested for improving IAQ while minimizing environmental impact. Green construction techniques, photocatalytic oxidation, and green roofs/walls are also discussed. The chapter acknowledges challenges like data privacy and integration complexity but emphasizes the convergence of air conditioning technology, climate change adaptation, and sustainable design for healthier indoor environments.
Digital Transformation in Smart Healthcare Canvas of Augmented and Virtual Reality
Authors: Singh Bhupinder , Kaunert Christian , Ravesangar Kamalesh , Arora Manmeet Kaur , Lal Sahil
Published: November 2024

Digital transformation involves using digital technologies to benefit society and the healthcare industry. Healthcare systems must adopt digital technology to develop innovative solutions for enhancing healthcare delivery and addressing medical issues. This transformation encompasses changes related to the internet, digital technologies, and their integration with new therapies and best practices for better health management. Managing the quality of massive data collected can improve patient well-being and reduce service costs. Also, digital technologies will influence medical education, leading experts to devise new training methods. Consequently, practitioners will encounter new opportunities in their field. This chapter focuses on the digital transformation of healthcare with a particular focus on the integration of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technologies are redefining healthcare delivery, training and patient interaction on a global scale.
From Learning to Learning How to Learn
Authors: Yavuz Pınar
Published: November 2024

The chapter focuses on the key skill of “learning how to learn” especially when operating in the contemporary dynamic environment. This meta competency is crucial as it helps organizations to be relevant and competitive especially in the current society that is characterized by technological and socio cultural dynamics. The characteristics identified are metacognitive awareness, intrinsic motivation, strategic learning, flexibility, and critical thinking. Speaking of barriers, the problem of educational inequity and the use of ineffective methods of teaching is considered, as well as how to adapt to the changes. While successful practices from around the world are exhibited, the importance of technology in education is also emphasized and all stakeholders involved in the education process are encouraged to work towards the goal of providing lifelong learning to the people of the 21st century.
Exploring the Nexus of Lifelong Learning and Resilience
Authors: Aktaş Çağla
Published: November 2024

Lifelong learning emphasizes the continuous development of an individual's knowledge and skills throughout their lifetime. This concept extends beyond the confines of traditional educational systems and has garnered significant attention across various disciplines such as Psychology, one of the most closely intertwined with educational sciences. Research from both education and psychology highlights the beneficial impacts of lifelong learning on psychological well-being. However, current studies exploring the intersection of these two emerging concepts often fail to delve into the underlying dynamics and mechanisms through which these benefits are realized. In this context, the concept of psychological resilience—a protective shield against psychological issues—emerges as a crucial element that could fill this gap in the literature. Therefore, this chapter aims to summarize the positive effects of lifelong learning on psychological health and to discuss how integrating the concept of psychological resilience into this relationship can contribute to both fields.
Improvisational Strategies to Promote Resilience and Adaptability for Online Instruction
Authors: Grimes Carrie M.
Published: November 2024

This chapter offers an analysis of how instructors within higher education settings can leverage improvisational techniques in order to design and manage effective, nimble online professional degree programs and courses which support the unique needs of adult learners, and benefit the institution. This chapter will explore the ways in which online instructors may be seen as facilitators who use mental models of improvisation to energize adult online learning experiences through their teaching and advising practices. The chapter will also examine the elements of effective improvisational leadership, including creativity, emotional intelligence, adaptability, and the capacity to respond to the unexpected with confidence and agility. As the landscape of online professional degree programs rapidly evolves, evidence-based tools and practices of improvisational leadership will be offered to effectively guide instructors through the complexities affiliated with driving positive change and innovation in adult online professional degree programs.
Global Environmental Agreements
Authors: Akter Moriom
Published: November 2024

The substantial contribution that international treaties provide to the development of successful global environmental policies is examined in the chapter “Global Environmental Agreements: Shaping International Policy Frameworks”. These accords, which were made possible by international cooperation, provide the framework for coordinated efforts to address pressing environmental problems including pollution, climate change, and biodiversity loss. These accords allow the interchange of information, resources, and technology that are essential for sustainable development by promoting international collaboration. Policies are current and beneficial because they are flexible enough to be altered in response to new scientific discoveries and technological advances. To provide just and complete solutions, the chapter highlights the value of inclusion and promotes the engagement of different stakeholders, particularly underprivileged populations.
Encouraging Public Private Collaborations for Low Carbon Green Infrastructure in India
Authors: Bansal Divya , Bhattacharya Naboshree , Ghosal Indrajit
Published: November 2024

The purpose of this study is to look into how government policies affect the development of public-private partnerships (PPPs) for low-carbon, green infrastructure in India. The research will provide a thorough examination of current regulations pertaining to waste management, green buildings, renewable energy, and sustainable transportation in order to assess how well they work to encourage private sector cooperation and investment. The research aims to identify opportunities, problems, and best practices for strengthening the role of government in promoting PPPs for sustainable infrastructure development through the analysis of case studies and interviews with important stakeholders. This will furnish policymakers, practitioners, and scholars with significant perspectives to propel India's shift towards a low-carbon economy. This research intends to inform the creation of more effective strategies for promoting sustainable infrastructure expansion and expediting India's transition to a greener future by examining the interplay between government policies and PPPs.
Challenges and Opportunities in Implementing Tech-Enabled Environmental Governance
Authors: Ovais Durdana , Jain Richa
Published: November 2024

As technological advancements rapidly evolve, they present both opportunities and challenges for environmental governance. Despite the significant promise of technology in enhancing environmental governance, gaps remain in understanding its effective implementation. This study addresses these gaps through a systematic literature review to elucidate how technology can be effectively utilized to advance environmental governance, overcome current challenges, and promote transformative change. This study employs a systematic literature review methodology, analyzing a broad range of academic sources including journals, conference proceedings, and reports. The review will follow rigorous search strategies and transparent inclusion/exclusion criteria to ensure a representative sample. Thematic analysis is applied to identify key trends, knowledge gaps, and emerging frameworks, providing a comprehensive understanding of tech-enabled environmental governance.
The Role of Technology in Environmental Governance
Authors: Jha Manas Kumar , Markandey Dilip Kumar , Gupta Ruchi , Mishra Pranavi
Published: November 2024

Technology's integration into environmental governance signifies a fundamental change in how societies safeguard and manage their natural resources. This chapter will present the significance of technology in advancing environmental governance frameworks in a variety of ways, with a focus on data collection, policy enforcement, and monitoring. Modern technologies allow more accurate tracking of environmental changes and more efficient management techniques. Examples of these technologies include big data analytics, geographic information systems (GIS), and remote sensing. Furthermore, blockchain technology and digital platforms increase environmental policy accountability and transparency, which encourages increased public participation and compliance. The convergence of these technologies addresses complicated ecological concerns in a world that is changing rapidly, while also improving decision-making processes and enabling more robust and adaptive environmental governance.
Gamification in Climate Action
Authors: Liu Yigang
Published: November 2024

The imperative to address climate change has led to innovative approaches, one of which is the application of gamification. This paper explores the potential of gamification to mitigate climate change by enhancing eco-education, simulating scientific scenarios, and providing policy feedback. It argues that gamification, through its ability to engage users in a “magic circle” of play, can foster a participatory culture that encourages behavioral changes aligned with climate mitigation strategies. The objective is to shift the focus from merely improving gamification's effectiveness to leveraging the gaming industry's potential to directly contribute to reducing personal carbon footprints and shaping power consumption habits through gaming. It concludes that gamification and the gaming industry can play a significant role in climate change mitigation by transforming players' behaviors and by establishing a virtual carbon credit market that incentivizes sustainable practices.
Environmental Governance for Promoting and Application of Integrated Water Resources Management
Authors: Shams Shahriar
Published: November 2024

Water crisis has been ranked amongst the top 10 global challenges with estimates predicting up to a 40 percent fall in freshwater resources by 2030. On top of that, water demand has far outpaced current population growth and experiencing water scarcity due to rising average global temperatures exacerbated by climate change. Hence, the environmental and sustainable management of water resources is a global imperative, and Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM) has emerged as a key paradigm to address the multifaceted challenges associated with water management. This chapter discusses the dynamic interplay between IWRM and environmental governance through capacity developments emphasising their pivotal roles in promoting sustainable water resource management. In terms of the governance process, it is only possible to promote and apply IWRM through a well-defined policy for capacity development, ensuring transparency and accountability in water management and addressing inequality, gender biasness supported by available tools under Global Water Partnership (GWP).
Green Socio-Ecological-Technological Innovation Policymaking and Strategies
Authors: Vargas-Hernandez José G. , González Francisco Javier J. , Castañeda-Burciaga Selene , Guirette Omar , Vargas-González Omar C.
Published: November 2024

This study aims to analyze the relationships between policymaking and strategies for socio-ecological, environmental, and green socio-technological innovation. The analysis departs from the assumption that the environment of a socio-ecological and socio-technological innovation can be fostered by policymaking and strategies aimed to provide the transformation of pure research on scientific knowledge into innovative commercial products and services. The method employed is the analytic-reflective based on the theoretical and empirical literature review. It is concluded that policymaking and strategies accelerates the creation and development processes of socio-ecological, environmental, and green socio-technological innovation.
Environmental Governance for Promoting Dental Public Health
Authors: Chowdhury Sadia
Published: November 2024

Environmental change has a profound effect on the physical environment as well as all elements of natural and human systems. This includes social and economic conditions, as well as the functioning of health systems. Climate change poses an additional risk to the environment, since it leads to more frequent and severe storms, floods, high temperatures, droughts, and wildfires. This chapter examines the importance and role of environmental governance in promoting oral public health. The discussion will centre around the multiple determinants that affect dental public health, encompassing the importance of fluoridation, the consequences of air and water pollution, the accessibility of uncontaminated water, sustainable approaches in dentistry, minimising sugar intake and advocating for nutritious diets, the availability of dental care (including healthcare facilities and workforce training), and the role of education and awareness. It is essential to include sustainability education into the curriculum of both undergraduate and postgraduate students.
Artificial Intelligence in Detecting Herding and Market Overreaction
Authors: Singh Bhupinder , Kaunert Christian , Gautam Ritu
Published: November 2024

Herding behavior, where individuals in a group act collectively without centralized direction, is a phenomenon observed in various domains, including financial markets, consumer behavior and social media trends. Detecting herding behavior is crucial for understanding market dynamics, predicting economic crises, and managing risks. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a powerful tool in identifying and analyzing herding patterns due to its ability to process vast amounts of data and uncover complex patterns that are not easily visible through traditional methods. The future of AI in this industry is optimistic, with continued developments promising even higher efficiency and accuracy, despite the limitations. AI will grow more sophisticated in its application to herding behavior detection as it develops, enabling more informed risk management and decision-making. This chapter explores the role of AI in detecting herding, highlighting its applications, benefits, challenges and future prospects.
Availability Cascade and Herd Behavior in Financial Markets
Authors: Kırmızıaltın Eren , Çeri Duygu
Published: November 2024

Herd behavior is important topics in behavioral finance. In financial markets, herd behavior occurs when investors follow the crowd, making decisions based on current trends or the actions of others rather than conducting their own thorough analysis. This behavior, combined with market overreaction plays a significant role in price volatility and financial instability. To analyze these behaviors effectively, it's essential to understand the underlying mechanisms, particularly the psychological and cognitive factors that drive them. This study focuses on the connection between herd behavior and the availability cascade. Given the focus of this study, the analysis has been tailored to explore this relationship specifically. Consequently, the study not only focuses on the psychological and cognitive factors that cause herding behavior in financial markets but also tries to explain the relationship between the psychological and cognitive factors that cause herding behavior and the availability cascade.
Emotional Contagion and Financial Markets
Authors: Loang Ooi Kok
Published: November 2024

The study investigates the complex dynamics that drive market overreaction in financial markets. This research focuses on the impact of emotional states (fear and greed), market news and rumors, peer influence, market volatility, and investor experience on market overreaction. The study employs the concepts of emotional contagion as a mediating variable and social proof as a moderating variable to understand how these factors interact and influence market behaviour. The findings highlight the significant role of emotional states and social dynamics in driving market inefficiencies. Emotional contagion is shown to amplify the impact of fear and greed, market news and rumors, peer influence, and market volatility on market overreaction. Conversely, social proof moderates these relationships, often intensifying the effect of emotions and social influences on market behaviour. The study's results underscore the importance of considering psychological and social factors in financial market analysis and regulatory frameworks.
Share Repurchase
Authors: Lyu Lingli , Guzikova Liudmila A.
Published: November 2024

Share repurchase refers to the behavior of listed companies to repurchase their own shares from the stock market for stabilizing the share price and improving the governance structure. The empirical evidence of share repurchase of Chinese A-share listed companies during the period from 2021.1.1 to 2024.1.1 is collected to construct a model, and an empirical study is conducted based on the event study method in STATA. The top four industries with the highest percentage in the sample are selected for comparative analysis. The results of the study show that for the effect of share repurchase on share price, China's stock market also behaves in the same way as the western capital market, and share repurchase has a significant positive promotion effect on listed companies' stock price, but the promotion effect is short-lived. It is also found that listed firms with share repurchases have significant positive excess stock returns before the repurchase announcement, reflecting the fact that there is indeed an early leakage of repurchase information in the Chinese share repurchase market.
Big Data Visualization for Black Sigatoka Disease of Bananas and Pathogen–Host Interactions (PHI) of Other Plants
Authors: Segall Richard S. , Takahashi Soichiro , Rajbhandari Prasanna
Published: November 2024

Black sigatoka is a leaf spot disease affecting banana plants that has caused significant yield reductions of up to 50% (Arman et al., 2023). This research presents data visualizations of 8,761 data points related to black sigatoka in banana plants, encompassing attributes such as time, canopy temperature, and relative humidity. The paper also reviews related work, including the application of data mining to plant studies, the use of deep learning neural networks for plant disease data, and the use of machine learning for predicting crop yields and detecting disease. Additionally, it presents big data visualizations for 20,952 values obtained from the web-accessible Pathogen–Host Interactions database (PHI-base), covering various plant disease categories and providing an epidemiological analysis of prevalent causative agents in specific plant diseases.
How Do Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Big Data (BD) Technologies Help Social Impact Enterprises Build Legitimacy?
Authors: Chen Jie , Wang Zhongmin
Published: November 2024

This paper explores the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and big data (BD) technologies in social impact enterprises in China, particularly focusing on their social activities. It demonstrates that these technologies are instrumental in building pragmatic, moral, and cognitive legitimacy by enhancing transparency and efficiency in stakeholder interactions across both commercial and social networks. Additionally, the study highlights the vital role of social impact enterprises in maintaining infrastructure, public services, and social welfare in financially challenged regions amidst local government debt crises. The necessity for enterprises to align with historical and cultural norms, particularly Confucian values and kinship expectations, is also emphasized. This research bridges a critical gap in the literature, offering insights into the integration of technological innovation with social entrepreneurship, and providing a foundation for future studies and policy development.
Building a Sustainable Development Education System for Large Organizations Based on Artificial Intelligence of Things
Authors: Wu Hsin-Te , Li Jie-Xin , Chen Mu-Yen
Published: November 2024

This paper proposes building a sustainable development computing system for large organizations based on AI and IoT. The system leverages AI to calculate the carbon emissions caused by large organizations' activities and utilizes IoT devices to monitor and compute environmental coefficients. The system also employs automated devices to achieve net-zero carbon emissions. By integrating weather forecast information from meteorological agencies to understand external environmental conditions, and by consulting a knowledge database to devise appropriate response strategies, the AI system can activate relevant equipment to improve both the organization's living environment and carbon emission processes. The feasibility and practical application of this system will be demonstrated through actual simulations to enhance its viability and effectiveness.
Evaluation of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) lines to develop a high yielding black seeded sesame variety (ANKSE 3) in Sri Lanka
Authors: Perera U. I. P. , Jeewani D. G. C. , Liyanage I. R. , Kasthuriarachchi K. A. N. M. , Pushpakumara R. W. , Premalal N. H. R.
Published: November 2024

Sesame, an essential oilseed crop, holds the potential to significantly contribute to foreign exchange earnings in Sri Lanka. Black seeded sesame has high demand among the confectionery industry of the country. To meet this demand, development of high-yielding, black-seeded sesame is a key objective of the sesame breeding program at the Department of Agriculture in Sri Lanka, aiming to overcome the low yield potential of existing varieties. To achieve this, thirtythree sesame accessions collected from different regions of the country were evaluated for morphological and yield traits, and six promising lines were identified for station yield trials. Among them four promising lines were selected and tested in six research stations situated in the Dry and Intermediate zones of Sri Lanka in a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replicates and the yield data were recorded. Further, two promising lines that recorded high yields, were selected, and evaluated in farmer field conditions with the check variety, MI 1. The new candidate line recorded the highest yield of 1430 kg/ha and recorded a higher crude fat percentage (43.4%) and higher oleic/linoleic ratio (greater than 1). The new candidate line, ANKBS 5 is superior to the check variety, MI 1 and the other tested lines and fits well to the cropping pattern of the country. The line was named as “ANKSE 3” and released at the Varietal Releasing Committee in 2021, and it is suitable for general cultivation specially to fulfil the demand of black seeded sesame in Sri Lanka.
Business size moderation and internal factors mediation impacts on SME business performance
Authors: Rampyapedi Koketso P. , Adetunji Olufemi
Published: November 2024

Background: Small businesses are important for the economy of any country, including South Africa. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) serve as a valuable engine for growth, innovation, new product development and job creation in the economy.Aim: This research examines business size as a moderator of the effects of the external business environment and the organisation of internal resources on the performance of SMEs in South Africa.Setting: Data for this study were collected using a survey questionnaire from 465 enterprises in South Africa across various industries.Methods: The study utilised a higher-order structural equation modelling and analysed data obtained from 465 complete responses using SmartPLS 4.Results: Findings indicate that business size moderates the relationship between business resources and performance. The study further demonstrated that external factors directly impact the management, allocation and utilisation of internal business resources.Conclusion: Both internal and external resources are found to influence business performance, with internal resources partially mediating the effect of external factors on business performance. The social capital construct suggests that for a better performance of business organisations, businesses must strive for diversification of their network channels and form meaningful associations within the industry they operate.Contribution: The study emphasises the importance of the internal resource factors to the success of businesses, irrespective of their size. Structural reforms and policies should be strengthened in supporting and enabling SMEs to grow their businesses to gain continued economic growth.
Improving peritoneal dialysis fluid culture-positivity yield from 2022 to 2023
Authors: Van der Vyver Jenna A. , Thomas Teena
Published: November 2024

Background: Microbiological testing of peritoneal dialysis bags for peritonitis often yields culture-negative results. Culture-negative samples should not exceed 15% according to the International Society for Peritoneal Dialysis. To reduce this issue, the addition of a blood culture bottle incubation step to the culture process was introduced at the Infection Control Services Laboratory (ICSL) of the National Health Laboratory Services (NHLS).Objectives: The aim of the study was to ascertain if the change in methodology increased the culture-positivity yield and reduced the culture-negative percentage.Method: Data from the NHLS Central Data Warehouse (CDW) were analysed to compare the culture-positive results over two periods: June–December 2022 when the non-blood culture (B/C) bottle method was used and January–July 2023 when the B/C bottle method was implemented.Results: The non-B/C culture method yielded a 23% culture-positivity yield, whereas the B/C bottle-based method yielded a 51% culture-positivity yield. However, the culture-negative yield for the B/C bottle-based method was high at 49%.Conclusion: The change in dialysis bag processing in 2023 led to a more than doubling in culture-positivity yield. However, the culture-negative percentage remained high. As a result, further modifications to the methodology are needed.Contribution: The study findings illustrate that the addition of the B/C bottle incubation step significantly improved peritoneal dialysis bag culture yields which directly impacts patient management.
Quality of routine health data in DHIS2 in South Africa: Eastern Cape province from 2017–2020
Authors: Thabethe Sibusiso S. , Mathews Verona E.
Published: November 2024

Background: Routine health information plays a significant role in managing the healthcare system to make informed decisions, monitor and evaluate, and take action to improve health outcomes. The Eastern Cape Department of Health (ECDoH) officially adopted the online District Health Information System (DHIS2) in 2017. However, evidence suggests that the underutilisation of routinely collected health information for management was often because of poor data quality in routine health information systems.Objectives: This study reviewed the level of quality of the routine health data in the DHIS2 using two quality dimensions, namely data completeness and internal consistency.Method: A retrospective study design was used to assess the quality of data for April 2017– March 2020 utilising the World Health Organization Data Quality Guidelines. Secondary data were extracted from the DHIS2 using standardised reports and captured in Microsoft Excel Office. A total of 265 health facilities and 77 data elements were included and analysed using descriptive analysis and a score grading system.Results: A total of 365 228 data element values were reported, 121 199 missing data values, unaccounted data values were at 248 153, about 6395 data values had outliers, and 5670 data values had validation errors. The rate of data completeness was 74.6%, the internal consistency was 95.1%, and the DHIS2 data quality was 84.9%.Conclusion: The study demonstrates the high quality of DHIS2 data in the ECDoH following the implementation of the online-based system. However, the significant number of missing data elements has impacted data completeness.Contribution: This study contributes to the body of knowledge on the importance of role of data quality for the utilisation routine health information systems as an essential tool for management in the health system.
Cardiotoxicity in breast cancer – Are we getting to the heart of the matter?
Authors: Steenkamp Zine , Sherriff Alicia , Van Rooyen Cornel
Published: November 2024

Background: The increasing awareness of chemotherapy-related cardiotoxicity has established a unique sub-speciality – cardio-oncology. However, consensus guidelines are still emerging. Patients at risk of cardiotoxicity should be identified and managed timeously to strike the balance between adequate cancer treatment and the impact of cardiovascular side-effects.Aim: To investigate chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity in human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 overexpressed breast cancer patients receiving anthracyclines and/or trastuzumab.Setting: Universitas Hospital Annex, Bloemfontein, South Africa.Methods: This retrospective study was conducted at Universitas Hospital Annex during 2019 and 2020. Data collected included baseline left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) measurement, repeat LVEF prior to trastuzumab treatment and after cycles 3, 6, 9 and 12, and the presence of known cardiovascular risk factors.Results: Thirty-one patients were evaluated. Seven (22.6%) patients were not eligible to receive trastuzumab after anthracycline treatment, and 11 (35.5%) patients were unable to complete the intended 6 months of adjuvant trastuzumab as per departmental protocol. Overall, the majority of patients (58.1%) who were planned to receive sequential anthracycline- and trastuzumab-based therapy did not complete the intended course, because of premature cessation of trastuzumab secondary to the detection of a decreasing LVEF. No significant correlation was observed between age, being overweight, laterality (left), pre-existing hypertension, diabetes mellitus, serum albumin, smoking or cardiotoxicity.Conclusion: Cardiovascular surveillance in patients receiving potentially cardiotoxic chemotherapy is recommended, especially in our population experiencing a disproportionately higher decline in cardiac function.Contribution: The findings emphasise the impact and raise awareness of chemotherapy-related cardiotoxicity in breast cancer treatment.
Changes in the gene expression of activation-induced cytidine deaminase in peripheral blood mononuclear cells in COVID-19 patients
Authors: Ahmadi Nioosha , Lajmiri Hossein , Ebrahimi Saeedeh , Nikoo Hadi Razavi , Farrokhnia Mehrdad , Heidari Elham , Mousavi Elham
Published: November 2024

Objective:

To assess the changes in gene expression of activation- induced cytidine deaminase (AID) in COVID-19 patients and its relationship with the presence of autoantibodies in those ones.

Methods:

This retrospective study was carried out among COVID-19 patients’ serum and peripheral blood mononuclear cells that were archived at the main COVID-19 referral centers in Iran from January to March 2022. The titer of autoantibodies in the serum of healthy and COVID-19 subjects was investigated by serological tests. Then, the AID gene expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells in two groups was evaluated using the real-time polymerase chain reaction method.

Results:

100 patients were included. In total, 8% and 1% of patients had a significant titer of anti-citruhinated protein antibody and antinuclear antibody autoantibodies, respectively, and those suffered from at least one comorbidity. No patient was positive for antiphospholipid autoantibody. Moreover, no significant changes were observed in the titer of autoantibodies between healthy subjects and patients. Furthermore, the increase in the expression of the AID gene was not significant in two groups.

Conclusions:

The presence of autoantibodies in COVID-19 patients might be linked to the previous underlying disease.
Thyroid dysfunction prevalence in high-risk pregnant women and maternal and neonatal consequences after delivery: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Ahangari Roghaye , Mohammadbeigi Abolfazl , Miraj Sepideh , Ghassami Keivan , Asgarian Azadeh
Published: November 2024

Objective:

To evaluate thyroid dysfunction prevalence and its consequences in high-risk pregnant women and their children.

Methods:

In this retrospective cohort study, data from high-risk pregnant women who were referred to a governmental referral hospital in Qom, Iran from March to August 2022 were collected. The thyroid disorders were determined according to the 2017 American Thyroid Association guidelines. The predictors of a mother’s hypothyroidism and its fetal and maternal consequences were assessed. Independent t-test, Chi-square test, and logistic regression were used for bivariate and multivariate analysis.

Results:

293 women were included. The prevalence of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism based on the thyroid stimulating hormone classification was 32.5% and 2.0%. The prevalence of subclinical and overt hypothyroidism was 6.1% and 4.1%, and the prevalence of subclinical and overt hyperthyroidism was 2.4% and 1.4%, respectively. Family history of thyroid disorders was the most important predictor of hypothyroidism during pregnancy (OR=2.6, 95% Cl=1.0-6.6, P=0.002), while preterm delivery (OR=2.2, 95% CI=1.3-6.8, P=0.220) and elevated neonate thyroid stimulating hormone (OR=1.2, 95% CI=1.1-1.3, P=0.041) were the most important consequence of hypothyroidism.

Conclusions:

Hypothyroidism is a highly prevalent thyroid disorder in high-risk pregnant women. Thyroid function screening should be performed in all pregnant women to increase the detection of subclinical and overt hypothyroidism during pregnancy.
Office Practice of Clinical Physiology
Authors: Jha Kamlesh , Gupta Manisha , Grover Alka
Published: November 2024

Clinical physiology is a vital field in health care that focuses on understanding how the body’s systems function and respond to various stimuli, including disease, exercise, and rehabilitation. The office practice of clinical physiology is a cornerstone of modern health care, facilitating the assessment, diagnosis, and management of various health conditions. Clinical physiologists can significantly improve patient outcomes when fostering a preventive health culture by employing a patient-centered approach that integrates diagnostic testing with personalized care plans.
Antenatal Hydrops Fetalis with Umbilical Vein Varix and Thrombosis – Ultrasound Imaging: A Rare Case
Authors: Suryadevara Manasa , Gupta Roohi , Mishra Gaurav Vedprakash , Nagendra Vadlamudi , Bhansali Pratik Jayprakash
Published: November 2024

Thrombosis of the umbilical vein/artery is a rare complication and is highly associated with fetal mortality. Varix of the fetal umbilical vein is a very rare anomaly and refers to the focal dilatation of the umbilical vein of the fetus. It appears as a round or fusiform cystic structure in the fetal abdomen. Here, in this case report, we hereby discuss a 28-year-old pregnant female with a gestational age of 26 weeks from last menstrual period, who on antenatal ultrasound had findings suggestive of umbilical vein varix with thrombosis and hydrops fetalis.