bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study on The Socio-economic Status of Street Vegetable Vendors in Sambalpur City
Authors: Bhoi Bhumisuta , Sahoo Nibedita
Published: February 2025

Aims: Street vending is an essential activity in informal/unorganized sectors in most underdeveloped and developing countries. Street vendors play a vital role in the urban informal economy. In most of the cities in India, generally, poor people prefer street vending as their occupation because this occupation does not require any specific skill. Various studies have been conducted on the socioeconomic condition of vegetable vendors in different regions. No such studies have been conducted on the vegetable vendors of the Sambalpur city. The present research paper aims to study the socioeconomic status and working patterns of the street vegetable vendors of Sambalpur City.
Methodology: The study investigates the socio-economic condition and working patterns of street vegetable vendors in Sambalpur city. The Census method is used to collect data from 385 respondents using structured questionnaires. The data were analyzed and interpreted using graphs, charts, pie diagrams, and percentage calculations.
Results: Male vegetable vendors outnumber female vegetable vendors and they are found to be poor in economic conditions. The socioeconomic condition of the street vegetable vendors is low.
Conclusion: The economic condition of the vegetable vendors is not sound. Their daily income and expenditure are very minimal. Both males and females are engaged in this occupation. Many people prefer to opt for this occupation regardless of religion and caste. Very few Government programs and policies are available for them. More programs and policies may be formulated to strengthen their skills in this occupation. The government may provide subsidies to the street vegetable vendors for purchasing essential commodities for street vending.
Orofacial Anomalies in Kindler Epidermolysis Bullosa
Authors: Krämer Susanne , Hillebrecht Anna Lena , Wang Yao , Badea Mihail-Alexandru , Barrios Jose Ignacio , Danescu Sorina , Fuentes Ignacia , Kartal Demet , Klausegger Alfred , Ponce de León Enrique , Schilke Reinhard , Yordanova Ivelina , Bloch-Zupan Agnes , Has Cristina
Published: March 2024

Importance

Kindler epidermolysis bullosa is a genetic skin-blistering disease associated with recessive inherited pathogenic variants in FERMT1, which encodes kindlin-1. Severe orofacial manifestations of Kindler epidermolysis bullosa, including early oral squamous cell carcinoma, have been reported.

Objective

To determine whether hypoplastic pitted amelogenesis imperfecta is a feature of Kindler epidermolysis bullosa.

Design, Settings, and Participants

This longitudinal, 2-center cohort study was performed from 2003 to 2023 at the Epidermolysis Bullosa Centre, University of Freiburg, Germany, and the Special Care Dentistry Clinic, University of Chile in association with DEBRA Chile. Participants included a convenience sampling of all patients with a diagnosis of Kindler epidermolysis bullosa.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcomes were the presence of hypoplastic pitted amelogenesis imperfecta, intraoral wounds, gingivitis and periodontal disease, gingival hyperplasia, vestibular obliteration, cheilitis, angular cheilitis, chronic lip wounds, microstomia, and oral squamous cell carcinoma.

Results

The cohort consisted of 36 patients (15 female [42%] and 21 male [58%]; mean age at first examination, 23 years [range, 2 weeks to 70 years]) with Kindler epidermolysis bullosa. The follow-up ranged from 1 to 24 years. The enamel structure was assessed in 11 patients, all of whom presented with enamel structure abnormalities. The severity of hypoplastic pitted amelogenesis imperfecta varied from generalized to localized pitting. Additional orofacial features observed include gingivitis and periodontal disease, which was present in 90% (27 of 30 patients) of those assessed, followed by intraoral lesions (16 of 22 patients [73%]), angular cheilitis (24 of 33 patients [73%]), cheilitis (22 of 34 patients [65%]), gingival overgrowth (17 of 26 patients [65%]), microstomia (14 of 25 patients [56%]), and vestibular obliteration (8 of 16 patients [50%]). Other features included chronic lip ulcers (2 patients) and oral squamous cell carcinoma with lethal outcome (2 patients).

Conclusions and Relevance

These findings suggest that hypoplastic pitted amelogenesis imperfecta is a feature of Kindler epidermolysis bullosa and underscore the extent and severity of oral manifestations in Kindler epidermolysis bullosa and the need for early and sustained dental care.
School Bus Rebate Program and Student Educational Performance Test Scores
Authors: Pedde Meredith , Szpiro Adam , Hirth Richard A. , Adar Sara D.
Published: March 2024

Importance

Students who ride older school buses are often exposed to high levels of exhaust during their commutes, which may adversely affect health and school attendance. As a result, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded millions of dollars to school districts to replace older, highly polluting school buses with newer, cleaner buses.

Objective

To leverage the EPA’s randomized allocation of funding under the 2012-2016 School Bus Rebate Programs to estimate the association between replacing old, highly polluting buses and changes in district-average standardized test scores.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This study examined changes in reading and language arts (RLA) and math test scores among US school district applicants to the EPA’s 2012-2016 national School Bus Rebate Programs 1 year before and after each lottery by selection status. Data analysis was conducted from January 15 to July 30, 2023.

Exposure

Selection to receive EPA funding to replace older school buses with newer, cleaner alternatives.

Main Outcomes and Measures

School district changes in RLA and math test scores among students in grades 3 through 8 before and after the EPA funding lotteries by selection status were measured using an intention-to-treat approach.

Results

This study included 1941 school district applicants to the 2012-2106 EPA School Bus Rebate Programs. These districts had a mean (SD) of 14.6 (33.7) schools per district, 8755 (23 776) students per district, and 41.3% (20.2%) of students with free lunch eligibility. Among the applicants, 209 districts (11%) were selected for the clean bus funding. District-average student test scores did not improve among selected districts overall. In secondary analyses, however, districts replacing the oldest, highest polluting buses (ie, pre-1990) experienced significantly greater improvements in district-average test scores in the year after the lottery for RLA and math (SD improvement in test scores, 0.062 [95% CI, 0.050-0.074] and 0.025 [95% CI, 0.011-0.039], respectively) compared with districts without replacements.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this study, the EPA funding was not associated with student test scores overall, but in secondary analyses, the replacement of the oldest school buses was associated with improved educational performance. These findings support prioritizing clean bus replacement of the oldest buses as an actionable way for improving students’ educational performance.
Electrochemiluminescence for Biomolecule Analysis
Authors: Guo Weiliang , Ding Hao , Su Bin
Published: March 2024

Electrochemiluminescence
(
ECL
) is a light‐emitting process triggered by electrochemical reactions. Thanks to its low background, high sensitivity, wide dynamic range, and rapid response time, ECL has manifested itself as a leading signal transduction technique in biosensing and bioimaging. In recent years, much effort has been expended to extend the readout of ECL signal from the conventional intensity measurement to spectral and imaging analysis.
ECL‐based spectroscopy
(
ECLS
) and
ECL‐based microscopy
(
ECLM
) are thus established and became two of the most popular electroanalytical methods. Recent advances in ECL analysis not only provide insightful information on ECL reaction mechanisms but also improve the analytical performance of ECL bioassays, particularly for multiplexing capacity and spatiotemporal resolution. In this monograph, we shall briefly introduce the fundamentals of ECL, and then focus on the progress of ECL bioassays that mainly include immunoassays, nucleic acid detection, enzymatic assays, and single‐cell analysis. Finally, some challenges and perspectives of ECL bioassays are discussed and presented. We believe that there are plenty of opportunities to design new ECL bioassays with high sensitivity, high throughput, and high spatiotemporal resolution.
Hydrogel‐Based Sensing for Living Biosystems
Authors: Zhao Yueru , Pan Yifei , Yu Ping
Published: March 2024

Long‐term in vivo monitoring of chemicals with implantable sensors has garnered significant interest in recent decades due to their profound impact on reflecting health conditions and aiding in disease diagnosis. Hydrogel‐based sensors have emerged as a promising choice for such applications, owing to their swellable, nano‐/microporous, and aqueous 3D structures, as well as their ability to maintain adjustable mechanical properties in wearable and implantable devices. This article presents a comprehensive review of the advancements in hydrogel‐based sensors for living biosystems, encompassing hydrogel synthesis, functionalization, and sensing properties, along with their in vivo applications. Additionally, the article explores key challenges, implementable strategies, and future design possibilities that hold potential for researchers seeking to develop innovative, multifunctional smart sensors.

image
Glucose Oxidase Energized Osmium with Dual‐Active Centers and Triple Enzyme Activities for Infected Diabetic Wound Management
Authors: He Shaobin , Lin Mengting , Zheng Qionghua , Liang Bo , He Xinjie , Zhang Yin , Xu Qiuxia , Deng Haohua , Fan Kelong , Chen Wei
Published: March 2024

Diabetic wounds are susceptible to bacterial infections, largely linked to high blood glucose levels (hyperglycemia). To treat such wounds, enzymes like glucose oxidase (GOx) can be combined with nanozymes (nanomaterials mimic enzymes) to use glucose effectively for purposes. However, there is still room for improvement in these systems, particularly in terms of process simplification, enzyme activity regulation, and treatment effects. Herein, the approach utilizes GOx to directly facilitate the biomineralized growth of osmium (Os) nanozyme (GOx‐OsNCs), leading to dual‐active centers and remarkable triple enzyme activities. Initially, GOx‐OsNCs use vicinal dual‐active centers, enabling a self‐cascaded mechanism that significantly enhances glucose sensing performance compared to step‐by‐step reactions, surpassing the capabilities of other metal sources such as gold and platinum. In addition, GOx‐OsNCs are integrated into a glucose‐sensing gel, enabling instantaneous visual feedback. In the treatment of infected diabetic wounds, GOx‐OsNCs exhibit multifaceted benefits by lowering blood glucose levels and exhibiting antibacterial properties through the generation of hydroxyl free radicals, thereby expediting healing by fostering a favorable microenvironment. Furthermore, the catalase‐like activity of GOx‐OsNCs aids in reducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and hypoxia, culminating in improved healing outcomes. Overall, this synergistic enzyme‐nanozyme blend is user‐friendly and holds considerable promise for diverse applications.
Rotation‐To‐Translation Enabled Robust Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Wind Harvesting and Sensing
Authors: He Yalong , Tang Lirong , Zhang Hengchen , Chen Jie , Yang Xiaohong
Published: March 2024

Disc and cylinder‐based triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) have great potential for harvesting wind energy. However, a significant challenge faced by these TENGs is the wear issues arising from the required close contact between tribo‐materials, especially at high frequencies. In response to this challenge, a gear‐slider TENG (GS‐TENG) is designed to transition from continuous close‐contact friction mode to intermittent contact. Working in unison with the central gear and two sliders, four units housed within GS‐TENG yield electrical output through periodic contact and separation. During a durability test of 845 000 cycles, the short‐circuit current only experiences a slight decrease, going from 25.38 to 24.03 µA, retaining 94.68% of its initial value. Operating at a matched impedance of 6 MΩ, GS‐TENG at M1 achieves a peak power density of 386 mW m−2, exceeding some previously proposed solutions in wind harvesting. When integrated into a wind speed sensing system, the GS‐TENG has a wide sensing range (13.1 to 28 m s−1) with a maximum error of 3.39%. This work demonstrates a rotation‐to‐translation strategy that lays the foundation for long‐term, high‐frequency wind energy harvesting and the development of a self‐powered wind sensing system.
Oh, the places you'll go! A qualitative study of resident career decisions in emergency medicine
Authors: Jordan Jaime , Buckanavage Jack , Ilgen Jonathan , Gottlieb Michael , Hopson Laura R. , Janicki Adam , Curato Mark , Chipman Anne K. , Clarke Samuel O.
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Postresidency career choices are complex decisions that involve personal, professional, and financial preferences and may be influenced by training programs. It is unknown how residents navigate these decisions during emergency medicine (EM) residency. We explored EM residents’ perspectives on career decision making and how residency programs can support career planning.

Methods

We conducted semistructured interviews at seven accredited EM residency programs from diverse locations and training formats. We used purposive sampling to reflect the diversity of trainees with regard to gender, level of training, and career plans. Two researchers independently coded the transcripts. We used a constructivist–interpretivist paradigm to guide our thematic analysis.

Results

We interviewed 11 residents and identified major themes in three categories. Residents described being exposed to career options through formalized curricula such as required rotations, career fairs, and subspeciality tracks, highlighting the importance of access to faculty with diverse areas of clinical and academic expertise. Many noted that exposure was often self‐driven. We identified three major themes regarding career decisions: instrumental factors, people involved, and processes of decision making. Instrumental factors included personal interests, goals, and values as well as practice characteristics, financial considerations, timing, and opportunity costs. Mentors and family were highly involved in resident career decisions. Residents often utilized reflection and conversations with mentors and peers in their decision‐making process. Participants recommended that programs provide exposure to diverse career options early in training, protect time for career education, and ensure adequate mentorship and a supportive community. Participants suggested specific curricular content and strategies to support career decisions.

Conclusions

This study illuminates important factors involved in resident career decision making and how programs can support their trainees. Essential components include diverse experiences and building a reflective mentorship environment.
Influence of Gizzard Shad on Black Crappie populations in prairie impoundments of Western South Dakota
Authors: Galinat Gene , Miller Bill
Published: March 2024

Gizzard Shad Dorosoma cepedianum have been introduced into Western South Dakota reservoirs and shown to improve the growth and size structure of sportfish, particularly Walleye Sander vitreus. Black Crappies Pomoxis nigromaculatus are a popular sportfish in these reservoirs, but influences Gizzard Shad have on these populations have not been well documented. We used 10 years of annual sampling data to evaluate changes in Black Crappie population characteristics (i.e. recruitment, growth, size structure and condition) in four Western South Dakota reservoirs after Gizzard Shad were introduced. We also compared Black Crappie population characteristics after shad introductions to populations in three reservoirs never having shad. We found Black Crappie populations in Western South Dakota reservoirs are characterized by variable recruitment, generally experiencing some level of recruitment failure. Reservoirs with Gizzard Shad showed greater mean length‐at‐age and higher proportional size distributions (PSD and PSD‐P) for Black Crappie after the shad introductions and higher values than observed in reservoirs never having shad. We found no meaningful differences in abundance, and mean condition of Black Crappie populations whether Gizzard Shad were present or not. The addition of Gizzard Shad did not appear to negatively affect Black Crappie populations but rather improved crappie size structure. Our results indicate that introductions of Gizzard Shad are a viable management option for producing quality Black Crappie fisheries in Western South Dakota reservoirs.
Aeschynomene overseeding and nitrogen fertilization effects in bahiagrass litter decomposition
Authors: Garzon Jaime , Vendramini Joao M. B. , Silveira Maria L. , Dubeux Jose Carlos B. , Sollenberger Lynn E. , Liao Hui‐Ling , da Silva Hiran M. S. , Gomes Vinicius C. , Oliveira Hugo M. R. , Moriel Philipe
Published: March 2024

Productivity of tropical and subtropical grasslands is often limited by inadequate nitrogen (N) supply. Aeschynomene (Aeschynomene americana L.) is a warm‐season legume that may contribute as N input in grazing systems, but there is limited information about aeschynomene litter decomposition and N dynamics on pastures. The objective of this study was to quantify the effect of overseeding aeschynomene or applying N fertilizer to existing bahiagrass (Paspalum notatum Flüggé) on litter disappearance and decomposition rates. The study was conducted in Ona, FL, from October 2019 to May 2020 and October 2020 to May 2021. Treatments were the split‐plot arrangement of bahiagrass‐aeschynomene or bahiagrass monoculture (main plot) and N fertilization level, (0 [control] or 60 kg N ha−1) as subplot, distributed in a randomized complete block design with four replicates. The nylon bag technique was used to estimate organic matter (OM), N and carbon (C) disappearance, and lignin concentration for 184 days of incubation. Bahiagrass‐aeschynomene had greater OM disappearance (from 330 to 356 g kg−1 OM) and was driven by C disappearance. Nitrogen fertilization did not impact litter decomposition responses, except for C:N ratio. Overseeding aeschynomene is an effective management practice to increase OM decomposition and optimize nutrient cycling in warm‐season pastures.
Codesign in Indigenous education policy and practice—A systematic literature review
Authors: Shay Marnee , Sarra Grace , Lampert Jo , Jeong Daeul , Thomson Amy , Miller Jodie
Published: March 2024

Codesign is an increasingly common term in Indigenous education policy settings. However, it is unclear exactly what it means and how it is enacted. This systematic review examined 15 papers relevant to codesign in the context of Indigenous education, clearly distinguishing between codesign as a process and a method. These papers provide a snapshot of the various ways codesign is conceptualised, enacted as a process and evaluated in Indigenous education settings. In this paper, we respond to these three areas of codesign to inform a more nuanced framework to help policymakers and practitioners in the future.
The drivers, features, and influence of first scientific collaboration among core scholars from Chinese library and information field
Authors: Peng Xianzhe , Shi Jin
Published: March 2024

Collaboration among scholars in scientific research is increasingly common, making it important to address how to recommend suitable collaborators, especially for their first cooperation. To address this issue, this study focuses on 1487 core scholars in the field of library and information science in China, and then analyzes the impact of academic differences between these scholars in their first collaboration by using the propensity matching score method. It uncovers potential driving factors for scholars to reach first collaborations, including similar research productivity, contrasting academic influence, aligned research directions, and distinct research focuses. Then, the distribution of features of three types of first cooperation demonstrates that if one or both partners publish the first paper in this collaboration, the collaborative relationship tends to be more enduring and stable. In addition, the subsequent collaboration of scholars and the change in their academic differences are related to the initial academic differences between the two parties in the first collaboration. These patterns can be used to improve the accuracy and effectiveness of the scholar recommendation mechanism, hence promoting research collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Serrated adenocarcinoma of sigmoid colon with mismatch repair protein‐proficient phenotype: Histopathological recognition of a new subtype of colorectal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Karki Diksha , Ngakhusi Sajan
Published: March 2024

Key Clinical Message

Serrated adenocarcinoma is a distinct subtype of colorectal carcinoma characterized by unique histological and molecular features. Here we present a case study of a 58‐year‐old female patient who presented with generalized weakness, abdominal discomfort, and per‐rectal bleeding. This case report highlights the importance of understanding the histopathological features of serrated adenocarcinoma for accurate diagnosis which has impact on further management.
Accidental finding prior to rhinoplasty: Rhinolith—A rare case report
Authors: Heidarizadeh Mehdi , Sarrafzadeh Arash , Mohebiniya Maryam , Jadidi Soheila
Published: March 2024

Key Clinical Message

Through this case report, we review a rare radiographic finding within the nasal cavity and its histopathological findings in order to emphasize the importance of familiarizing oneself with all radiographic findings, regardless of their rarity.
Mott–Schottky Analysis of Historical and Archaeological Copper–based Objects
Authors: Doménech‐Carbó Antonio , Mödlinger Marianne , Osete‐Cortina Laura , Doménech‐Carbó María Teresa
Published: March 2024

The application of Mott–Schottky (M−S) analysis of impedance data to sub–micro samples extracted from the corrosion patina of copper, bronze, and brass archaeological artifacts attached to graphite electrodes is described. The corresponding theoretical approach is developed to account for the contribution of the composition and structure of the corrosion patina and the effect of the bare graphite substrate. Experimental data in contact with 0.10 M Na2SO4 aqueous solution at pH 6.28 are consistent with the p‐type semiconducting nature of the main copper corrosion products, cuprite, and tenorite. The values of the apparent flat band potential and the slope of the M−S plots allow archaeological samples to be grouped according to their M−S parameters (slopes and intercepts). Assuming equivalent conditions of corrosion, the resulting grouping is judged to be dependent on the composition, and/or method of manufacture, and/or age. Studied samples include Renaissance statues from the Hofkirche in Innsbruck and a variety of objects from museums and Archaeological Heritage Office (soprintendenza) in Austria (Bad Aussee, Johanneum Graz, and the Tyrolean State Museums), and Italy (Genoa and San Remo), dating from the Bronze Age to the 18th century. Complementary data are provided by voltammetry of immobilized particles.
PROTOCOL: Learner‐educator co‐creation of student assessment in health professional education courses: A scoping review protocol
Authors: Killam Laura A. , Egan Rylan , Godfrey Christina , Ross‐White Amanda , Camargo‐Plazas Pilar , Lock Mercedes , Luctkar‐Flude Marian
Published: March 2024

This is a protocol for a Campbell Review following JBI scoping review methodology. The objectives are to answer the following questions: What has been reported in the literature about collaborative learner‐educator design, implementation, or evaluation of learner assessment in health professional education? (1) Where is learner‐educator co‐creation of assessment occurring? (i.e., which disciplines, course types, level of learner, year of study). (2) What course assessment decisions are influenced or being made together? (i.e., assessment instructions and/or grades). (3) How much influence do learners have on decision‐making? (i.e., where does it fall on Bovill and Bulley's ladder of participation). (4) How do learners and educators go about making decisions together? (i.e., discussion or voting, with a whole class or portion of the class). (5) What are the perceived benefits, disadvantages, barriers, and/or facilitators reported by the authors?
The impact of Activation on the Performance of Optical Oxygen Sensing with the Luminescent Metal–Organic Framework MOF‐76(Eu)
Authors: Kasper Thomas , Burkhart Julian , Müller‐Buschbaum Klaus
Published: March 2024

The influence of activation as key parameter for oxygen sensing by luminescent metal–organic frameworks has been investigated and quantified for the archetype MOF‐76(Eu). Activation at different conditions (regarding temperature and solvent‐exchange for distinct vacuum pressure and heating time), shows an influence on the overall quenching, response time and cyclability due to different pore accessibility and surface area and therefore on the overall performance of the sensor. The optical sensing process is based on luminescence quenching, analyzed from high vacuum (10−7 bar) to ambient pressure by dosing oxygen from 0.01 bar to 1 bar. Strong influence of the different activation parameters is observed, as MOF‐76(Eu) activated at 50 °C shows limited quenching of the luminescence intensity within 30 min, while methanol‐exchange and subsequent activation at 250 °C leads to a quenching rate of 98.6 %. In addition, the sensor response occurs more than 1000 times faster within 0.2 s. These results correlate well with physisorption data, which reveal a significant change in porosity and surface area according to the degree of activation. For a better understanding of the involved processes, adsorption isotherms were recorded, surface areas determined and correlated to the photophysical parameters, including Stern‐Volmer kinetics and cycling experiments for the differently activated MOF sensors.
Hepatitis B and C infections among Japanese dental health workers: Insights from vaccination rates and screening results in the Oita prefecture
Authors: Nagao Yumiko , Kimura Tetsuya , Tomooka Kiyohide , Wakita Haruhiko
Published: March 2024

Objective

This study examined the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection rates and vaccination rates for hepatitis B (HB) among dental healthcare workers (DHCWs) in the Oita prefecture, Japan.

Methods

Hepatitis virus testing was conducted on 1920 participants (486 dentists and 1434 dental staff). Anonymous data on age, gender, occupation, hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), antibodies to hepatitis B surface antigen (anti‐HBs), antibodies to HCV (anti‐HCV), history of HB vaccination, and antiviral treatment for individuals with positive anti‐HCV were collected.

Results

The positivity rates for HBsAg, anti‐HBs, and anti‐HCV were 0.5%, 39.7%, and 0.6%, respectively. Dentists had significantly higher rates of anti‐HBs positivity (53.9% vs. 34.9%; p < .0001) and anti‐HCV positivity (1.4% vs. 0.3%; p = .0080) compared to dental staff. The vaccination and non‐vaccination rates among 1395 with a known HB vaccination history were 59.1% and 40.9%, respectively. Dentists had a significantly higher HB vaccine vaccination rate than the dental staff (73.6% vs. 54.0%; p < .0001). Those in the vaccination group were younger (p < .0001), had a higher proportion of males (p = .0022) and dentists (p < .0001), a lower HBsAg positivity rate (p < .0097), and a higher anti‐HBs positivity rate (p < .0001) compared to those in the non‐vaccination group. The positivity rate of HBsAg and anti‐HBs in the unvaccinated group increased with age, with HBsAg positivity reaching 3.8% in the 70s and anti‐HBs positivity reaching 40.4% in the 70s and 66.7% in the 80s.

Conclusions

This study highlights the need to raise awareness about hepatitis prevention vaccination, particularly among dental staff, due to differences in HB vaccination rates across occupations. In particular, they indicated that elderly DHCWs may be more vulnerable to HBV infection. Regular monitoring of the vaccination rate and infection risk is crucial.
Remineralization potential of dentifrices with calcium sodium phosphosilicate and functionalized tri‐calcium phosphate in the deeper incipient carious lesions: An in vitro study
Authors: Aziz Shafiq , Loch Carolina , Li Kai Chun , Anthonappa Robert , Meldrum Alison , Ekambaram Manikandan
Published: March 2024

Objectives

This study evaluated the remineralization potential of calcium sodium phosphosilicate and functionalized tri‐calcium phosphate (f‐TCP) dentifrices in deeper incipient carious lesions (ICLs).

Materials and Methods

Artificial ICLs were created by placing premolars into demineralizing solutions. Teeth were randomly assigned into four groups: calcium sodium phosphosilicate (Group 1), f‐TCP (Group 2), 1450 ppm fluoride (Group 3), and distilled water (Group 4), which were subjected to 10‐day pH cycling. Mineral density (MD) was assessed using microcomputed tomography (Micro‐CT), while hardness (H) and elastic modulus (EM) were assessed using nanomechanical testing.

Results

MD % gain was higher in Groups 1–3 than in Group 4. In addition, Groups 1 and 2 exhibited significantly higher MD % gain than Group 3. Also, Groups 1–3 showed significantly higher EM and H values than Group 4 in the outer enamel area; yet, Groups 1 and 2 displayed significantly higher EM and H values than Groups 3 and 4 in the inner enamel.

Conclusions

The MD, EM, and H of ICLs significantly increased with the addition of calcium sodium phosphosilicate or f‐TCP to fluoridated dentifrices compared to standard fluoride dentifrices. The added active ingredients remineralized the deeper parts of the ICLs, while remineralization at the lesion surface was similar between tested dentifrices.
Effect of guided implant placement learning experiences on freehand skills: A pilot study
Authors: Carrico Caroline , Skrjanc Lenart , Kanduti Domen , Deeb George , Deeb Janina Golob
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Guided implant systems can be used as a training approach for placing implants. This in vitro prospective randomized pilot study evaluated the learning progression and skill development in freehand placement of two implants supporting a three‐unit fixed prosthesis on a simulation model among novice operators.

Material and Methods

Four senior dental students with no prior implant placement experience participated in the study. As a baseline, each student placed two mandibular and two maxillary implants by freehand technique on a simulation model. Sixteen consecutive guided placements using a static guide, dynamic navigation, and template‐based guide followed totaling 32 guided implant placements into maxillary and mandibular models. Freehand implant placements before and after the various guided navigation attempts were compared to assess their impact on freehand skill. Metrics compared included surgical time, horizontal, vertical, and angulation discrepancies between the planned and placed implant positions measured on superimposed CBCT scans and analyzed with repeated measures regression with Tukey's adjusted pairwise comparisons (α = .05).

Results

Before training with guided techniques, the average baseline freehand implant placement took 10.2 min and decreased to 8.2 after training but this difference was not statistically significant (p = .1670) There was marginal evidence of a significant difference in the 3D apex deviation with an average improvement of 0.89 mm (95% CI: −0.38, 2.16, p = .1120); and marginal evidence of a significant improvement in the overall angle with an average improvement of 3.74° (95% CI: −1.00, 8.48, p = .0869) between baseline and final freehand placement attempts.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of this pilot study, guided implant placement experiences did not significantly benefit or hinder freehand placement skills. Dental students should be exposed to various placement techniques to prepare them for clinical practice and allow them to make informed decisions on the best technique based on their skills and a given clinical scenario.
Participation, agreement and reduced acrimony through family mediation: Benefits for the ambivalent client in a mandatory setting
Authors: Heard G. , Lohan A. , Petch J. , Milic J. , Bickerdike A.
Published: March 2024

In Australia, it is mandatory for separating couples to attempt Family Dispute Resolution (FDR/mediation) before taking a parenting matter to court. In this context some clients may attend FDR solely as a means of accessing court processes. This article examines key outcomes across a large sample of FDR clients in a community sector organization. Participation, rates of agreement, levels of satisfaction, and levels of acrimony are assessed for the sample as a whole and for a subgroup of those indicating their intention to proceed to court. Strong rates of participation, agreement, and satisfaction are reported for the full sample, and significant reductions in acrimony are evident among those who reached agreement in FDR. We find that those who indicate ambivalence to negotiating parenting matters in FDR nevertheless derive benefit from participation in terms of reduced acrimony, satisfaction with the process, and reaching some level of agreement.
Genetic variability and QTL mapping of morphological traits and inflorescence prolificacy in African bermudagrass
Authors: Yu Shuhao , Fontanier Charles H. , Yan Liuling , Martin Dennis L. , Moss Justin Q. , Wu Yanqi
Published: March 2024

African bermudagrass (Cynodon transvaalensis Burtt‐Davy) (2n = 2x = 18) has unique morphological characteristics such as finer leaf blades and shorter internodes that are important to improving turf qualities (i.e., texture and density) as compared to other Cynodon species. It has been extensively used to cross with common bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon Pers. var. dactylon) in developing high‐quality interspecific [C. dactylon (L.) Pers. × C. transvaalensis Burtt‐Davy] F1 hybrid cultivars for turf use. However, the molecular basis of its morphological variation is unknown. Accordingly, the objectives of this study were to estimate the heritability and identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with morphological and reproductive traits. A first‐generation self‐pollinated (S1) population of 109 individuals was evaluated for plant height (PH), leaf blade width (LBW) and leaf blade length, stem internode diameter and length, and inflorescence prolificacy (IP) in a replicated field trial over three seasons (2018–2020). The broad‐sense heritability estimates ranged from 0.31 (PH) to 0.80 (IP). Twenty‐four QTL were identified and nine of them were consistent ones. Fifteen candidate genes were found at a major and consistent QTL region associated with LBW. Frequent QTL colocations were found among morphological traits and between morphological traits and IP, partially explaining the significant correlation. The findings provide critical information and resources toward understanding the genetic basis associated with morphological and reproductive traits within C. transvaalensis and could contribute to marker‐assisted selection for breeding new turf‐type bermudagrass cultivars.
Insight into the Critical Role of Oxygen Vacancies and V=O Bonds Length in V2O5 for Advanced Zinc Ion Storage
Authors: Wang Zhaojie , Ding Ruidong , Zhang Jingrui , Hou Qi , Chen Hongyu , Wei Shuxian , Liu Siyuan , Lu Xiaoqing
Published: March 2024

Due to the larger sizes and stronger positive polarity of Zn2+ than dominant univalent ions, Zn2+ sluggish diffusion within V2O5 host electrodes is an essential issue in developing aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs) of higher energy densities. Herein, a high‐performance V2O5 cathode was developed through subtly synthesizing and tuning V2O5 with oxygen vacancies‐enriched and elongated apical V=O1 bond by altering the gradient concentration of hydrazine hydrate in the gas‐solid reaction system. This strategy can enhance both intrinsic and extrinsic conductivity to a large extent. The electrochemical testing demonstrated the oxygen vacancies‐enriched and elongated apical V=O1 bond can not only increase the intrinsic electronic conductivity of V2O5, but also induce additional pseudocapacitance to enhance the Zn2+ diffusion kinetics. We used infrared spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy to characterize the change in the bond length structure of V2O5. Simultaneously, the long‐term cyclability (capacity retention of 76.9 % after 1200 cycles at 4.0 A g−1) and rate capabilities (218 mAh g−1 at 4.0 A g−1) are promoted as well. We believe that our work might shed light on the bond length engineering of V2O5 and provide insights for the reasonable designing of novel cathodes for practical rechargeable ZIBs.
A source location privacy protocol‐based energy‐efficient and link‐reliable multi‐scale bifurcated deep Capsnet routing in social Internet of Things
Authors: Mariappan Sakthivel Gowtham , Subramanian Arunkumar , Syed Mohammadu Jamaesha , Muthukrishnan Ramkumar
Published: March 2024

Source location privacy is a developing research topic in the social Internet of Things. Source location privacy holds paramount importance in security critical wireless sensor network applications like tracking and monitoring. Several methods have been proposed for source location privacy in the social Internet of Things, but the existing methods have some issues such as improper path selection, the transmission of duplicate messages, and low network lifetime. To overcome these issues, a source location privacy protocol based on energy‐efficient and link‐reliable multi‐scale bifurcated deep Capsnet routing in the social Internet of Things is proposed in this manuscript. At first, the optimal route for the source is selected with the help of energy‐efficient and link‐reliable routing, this method helps to avoid improper path selection. To estimate the quality of the selected optimal path, the multi‐scale bifurcated deep Capsnet is applied. The introduced method is executed in MATLAB. The introduced method's performance is estimated with the aid of several performances evaluating metrics like sensitivity, energy consumption, network lifetime, safety period, and delay.
The best defense is a good offense: Anti‐predator behavior of the common octopus (Octopus vulgaris) against conger eel attacks
Authors: Salvador Beatriz , Cabanellas‐Reboredo Miguel , Garci Manuel E. , González Ángel F. , Hernández‐Urcera Jorge
Published: March 2024

We present the description of defensive behavior in wild Octopus vulgaris against conger eel (Conger conger) attacks based on three video sequences recorded by recreational SCUBA divers in the eastern Atlantic off the coast of Galicia (NW Spain) and in the Cantabrian Sea (NW Spain). These records document common traits in defensive behavior: (1) the octopuses enveloped the conger eel's head to obscure its view; (2) they covered the eel's gills in an attempt to suffocate it; (3) they released ink; (4) the octopuses lost some appendages because of the fight. In the third video, the octopus did not exhibit the defensive behavior described in the first two videos due to an inability to utilize its arms in defense, and the conger eel's success in capturing octopuses is discussed. Additionally, both the cost that the octopus could face by losing some arms during the fight and whether the experience it acquires can be an advantage for future encounters are analyzed. The defensive behavior exhibited by octopuses in this study highlights their ability to survive in a hostile environment and serves as an example of the extensive repertoire of anti‐predator strategies employed by these cephalopods.
Peganum harmala L. extract‐based Gold (Au) and Silver (Ag) nanoparticles (NPs): Green synthesis, characterization, and assessment of antibacterial and antifungal properties
Authors: Ullah Izaz , Rauf Abdur , Khalil Anees Ahmed , Luqman Muhammad , Islam Md. Rezaul , Hemeg Hassan A. , Ahmad Zubair , Al‐Awthan Yahya S. , Bahattab Omar , Quradha Mohammed Mansour
Published: March 2024

During the last decade, nanotechnology has attained a significant place among the scientific community for the biosynthesis of plant‐based nanoparticles owing to its effective, safe, and eco‐friendly nature. Hence, keeping in view the significance of nanotechnology, the current study was conducted to develop, characterize (UV–visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy), and assess the antimicrobial (antibacterial and antifungal) properties of Peganum harmala L. Extract‐based Gold (Au) and Silver (Ag) nanoparticles (NPs). Characteristic absorption peaks at 420 and 540 nm revealed the formation of AgNPs and AuNPs, respectively. SEM images revealed that both silver and gold nanoparticles were oval and spherical with average size ranging from 42 to 72 and 12.6 to 35.7 nm, respectively. Similarly, FT‐IR spectra revealed that the functional groups such as hydroxyl, carboxyl, and polyphenolic groups of biomolecules present in the extract are possibly responsible for reducing metallic ions and the formation of nanoparticles. Likewise, the EDX analysis confirmed the presence of silver and gold in synthesized NPs. Furthermore, the AgNPs and AuNPs showed good antibacterial and antifungal activities. The maximum antibacterial and antifungal activity was noticed for P. harmala extract against Pseudomonas aeroginosa (21 mm) and Candida albicon (18 mm), respectively. Whereas, the maximum antibacterial and antifungal activities of synthesized AgNPs were observed against Salmonella typhi (25 mm) and Penicillium notatum (36 mm), respectively. Moreover, in the case of AuNPs, the highest antibacterial and antifungal activity of synthesized AuNPs was noticed against Escherichia coli (25 mm) and C. albicon (31 mm), respectively. Findings of this study revealed that P. harmala extract and biosynthesized NPs (silver and gold) possessed significant antibacterial and antifungal properties against different bacterial (Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, P. aeroginosa, and S. typhi) and fungal (C. albicans, Aspergillus Niger, and P. notatum) strains. Further studies must be carried out to assess the probable mechanism of action associated with these antimicrobial properties.
Molecular Characterization of α‐ and β‐Thalassemia Among Children Less Than 18 Years Old in Guizhou, China
Authors: Li Yan , Jin Jiao , Tuo Yuanyuan , Huang Pei , Huang Jing , Yang Honglan , He Zhixu
Published: March 2024

Background

Thalassemia is an inherited hemolytic disease, the complications and sequelae of which have posed a huge impact on both patients and society. But limited studies have investigated the molecular characterization of α‐ and β‐thalassemia in children from Guizhou, China.

Methods

Between January 2019 and December 2022, a total of 3301 children, aged 6 months to 18 years, suspected of having thalassemia underwent molecular analysis.

Results

Out of the total sample, 824 (25%) children were found to carry thalassemia mutations. The carrier rates of α‐thalassemia, β‐thalassemia, and α + β‐thalassemia were determined as 8.1%, 15.6%, and 1.3%, respectively. Approximately 96.5% of the α‐thalassemia gene mutations were ‐‐SEA (51%), ααCS (20.9%), ‐α3.7 (19.6%), and ‐α4.2 (5.0%). The most prevalent mutations of β‐thalassemia were βCD17(A>T) (41.5%), βCD41‐42(‐TTCT) (37.7%), and βIVS‐II‐654(C>T) (11.3%). Additionally, we identified rare cases, including one case with ααHb Nunobiki/αα, two cases with triplicated α‐thalassemia (one case with ααα/ααα and βCD41‐42/βN and the other with ααα‐3.7/αα and βE CD26/βN), and also one case with α Q‐Thailandα/‐α4.2 and βCD41‐42/βN.

Conclusions

Our study findings provide important insights into the heterogeneity of thalassemia carrier rates and molecular profiles among children in the Guizhou region. The findings support the development of prevention strategies to reduce the incidence of severe thalassemia in the future.
Evaluation of Automated Magnetic Bead–Based DNA Extraction for Detection of Short Tandem Repeat Expansions With Nanopore Sequencing
Authors: Faust Helene , Duffek Patricia , Hentschel Julia , Popp Denny
Published: March 2024

Background

Long‐read technologies such as nanopore sequencing provide new opportunities to detect short tandem repeat expansions. Therefore, a DNA extraction method is necessary that minimizes DNA fragmentation and hence allows the identification of large repeat expansions. In this study, an automated magnetic bead–based DNA extraction method and the required EDTA blood storage conditions as well as DNA and sequencing quality were evaluated for their suitability for repeat expansion detection with nanopore sequencing.

Methods

DNA was extracted from EDTA blood, and subsequently, its concentration, purity, and integrity were assessed. DNA was then subjected to nanopore sequencing, and quality metrics of the obtained sequencing data were evaluated.

Results

DNA extracted from fresh EDTA blood as well as from cooled or frozen EDTA blood revealed high DNA integrity whereas storage at room temperature over 7 days had detrimental effects. After nanopore sequencing, the read length N50 values of approximately 9 kb were obtained, and based on adaptive sampling of samples with a known repeat expansion, repeat expansions up to 10 kb could be detected.

Conclusion

The automated magnetic bead–based DNA extraction was sufficient to detect short tandem repeat expansions, omitting the need for high‐molecular‐weight DNA extraction methods. Therefore, DNA should be extracted either from fresh blood or from blood stored in cooled or frozen conditions. Consequently, this study may help other laboratories to evaluate their DNA extraction method regarding the suitability for detecting repeat expansions with nanopore sequencing.