bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Complex nitrogen redox couplings control methane emissions from Arctic upland yedoma taliks
Authors: Bergman Oded , Anthony Katey Walter , Eliani-Russak E. , Sivan Orit
Published: February 2025

Yedoma-permafrost holds disproportionately large carbon and nitrogen pools, concentrated in icy, Pleistocene-aged silt deposits in the Arctic. Upon thaw, these undergo microbial mineralization, releasing greenhouse gases (GHGs) including carbon-dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4) and nitrous-oxide (N2O). Here we present combined geochemical data with microbial function and community dynamics from deep-talik soil boreholes in an unsaturated yedoma upland. Our results reveal significant in-situ spatio-temporal seasonal shifts in microbial functional, community composition and diversity within 7-m deep upland talik. In situ methanogenesis persisted in the soil talik throughout the year due to the permafrost thaw. In the winter methanotrophy was negligible within and above the methanogenic zone, leading to elevated CH4emissions to the atmosphere. This is likely due to reduced microbial methanotrophic activity, associated with lower temperatures and nitrogen availability. During summer, at and above the anoxic methanogenic zone, nitrate/nitrite mediated anaerobic oxidation of methane (N-AOM) by ANME2d and the NC-10 phylum, together with aerobic methanotrophy near the soil surface, significantly attenuated CH4emissions. Nitrous-oxide concentrations peaked at 10 cm (7.2 µM) and 105 cm (6.7 µM) and were associated with denitrification and N-AOM byMethanoperedens(ANME2d). In the summer only and within the top 1 m of soil, high expression of nitrogen related genes (narG, norB, amoA, Annamox, and Feammox) indicated active redox dynamics, potentially providing nitrogen species for N-AOM. The potential N2O emissions in summer may imply higher net GHGs emission from yedoma uplands as climate warming leads to longer summers and warmer soils in the future.
Exploiting the SunTag system to study the developmental regulation of mRNA translation
Authors: Pizzey Alastair , Sutcliffe Catherine , Love Jennifer C. , Akabuogu Emmanuel , Rattray Magnus , Ashe Mark P. , Ashe Hilary L.
Published: February 2025

The ability to quantitatively study mRNA translation using SunTag imaging is transforming our understanding of the translation process. Here, we expand the SunTag method to study new aspects of translation regulation inDrosophila. Repression of the maternalhunchback(hb) mRNA in the posterior of theDrosophilaembryo is a textbook example of translational control. Using SunTag imaging to quantitate translation of maternalSunTag-hbmRNAs, we show that repression in the posterior is leaky as ∼5% ofSunTag-hbmRNAs are translated. In the anterior of the embryo, the maternal and zygoticSunTag-hbmRNAs show similar translation efficiency despite having different UTRs. We demonstrate that theSunTag-hbmRNA can be used as a reporter to study ribosome pausing at single-mRNA resolution, by exploiting the conservedxbp1mRNA and A60 pausing sequences. Finally, we adapt the detector component of the SunTag system to visualise and quantitate translation of theshort gastrulation(sog) mRNA, encoding an essential secreted extracellular BMP regulator, at the endoplasmic reticulum in fixed and live embryos. Together, these tools will facilitate the future dissection of translation regulatory mechanisms during development.
Standardized droplet preamplification method for downstream circulating cell-free DNA analysis
Authors: Skeen Colin , Pratt Erica D.
Published: February 2025

Circulating cell-free DNA (ccfDNA) can be found in blood and other biofluids and is a minimally invasive biomarker for several pathological processes. As tumors become more invasive, an increasing amount of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) is also shed into the peripheral circulation. Combined analysis of ccfDNA and ctDNA has demonstrated prognostic and predictive value in metastatic disease. However, localized tumors shed significantly less ccfDNA/ctDNA and accurate detection remains a technical challenge. To overcome this barrier, droplet preamplification has been used to perform robust multiplexed analysis of low input samples. To reduce false positives, it is essential to use a high-fidelity polymerase with 3’-5’ exonuclease activity. However, attempts to combine high-fidelity polymerases with commercial droplet digital chemistries have had limited success. There is also no standardized method for efficient amplicon recovery from droplets. In this work, we present a method to reliably stabilize emulsions and recover preamplified template. We systematically compared our protocol with different destabilization methods and found an average 41% improvement in recovery efficiency. We anticipate this standardized method will increase the consistency and reproducibility of ccfDNA/ctDNA analyses. This technique could be readily translated to other low-input or low-biomass samples, such as urine, saliva, or archived biopsy specimens.
Enhanced detection of time-dependent dielectric structure: Rayleigh limit and quantum vacuum
Authors: Mkrtchian V. E. , Avetisyan H. S. , Allahverdyan A. E.
Published: February 2025

Detection of scattered light can determine the susceptibility of dielectrics. Such imaging normally holds Rayleigh's limit: details finer than the wavelength of the incident light cannot be determined from the far-field zone. We show that time -modulation of an inhomogeneous dielectric can be used to determine its susceptibility. To this end, we focus on the inverse quantum optics problem for spatially and temporally modulated metamaterial, whose dielectric susceptibility is similar to moving dielectrics. We show that the vacuum contribution to the photodetection signal is nonzero due to the negative frequencies even in the far-field zone. Hence, certain dielectric features can be determined without radiating any incident field on the dielectric. When the incident light is scattered (or reradiated), the determination of dielectric susceptibility is enhanced and overcomes Rayleigh's limit in the far-field zone. We study similar effects for an inhomogeneous dielectric moving with a constant speed, a problem we consider within relativistic optics. Now the vacuum contribution to the photodetection signal reflects dielectric features, can be long-range in space but is not a far-field effect.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Islands in Bianchi type I universe
Authors: Ben-Dayan Ido , Hadad Merav , Srivastava Ayushi
Published: February 2025

We study the conditions for finding an island in an anisotropic universe—Bianchi type I universe filled with radiation. We verify that the existence of islands does not depend on their shape. We then find that islands may form at certain times, near the turnaround point—where the universe turns from contraction to expansion in one of the directions. This is in line with previous analyses regarding cosmological space-times where islands form if one has two energy scales in the problem, such as the typical temperature of the universe and, on top of that, cosmological constant, curvature, anisotropy, or some other mass scale.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Entanglement generation and stabilization by coherent collisions
Authors: Bozkurt A. Mert , López Rosa , Ryu Sungguen
Published: February 2025

Collision is a useful tool for revealing quantum effects and realizing quantum informational tasks. We demonstrate that repeated collisions by itinerant electrons can dissipatively drive two remote spin qubits into an entangled state in a generic collisional framework. A coherent spin exchange with either qubit facilitates entanglement generation. When combined with proper local driving, these collisions induce an entangled steady state in most collision configurations. Particularly, the collision which is symmetric for the two qubits results in a unique steady state close to a maximally entangled state. Due to the dissipative nature of the process, the entanglement persists in the presence of decoherence, provided the collision frequency exceeds the decoherence rate. Our model can be experimentally implemented using single-electron sources.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
A hybrid forecasting model to improve cost prediction accuracy in green building projects with machine learning
Authors: Wu Zhijiang , Liu Mengyao , Ma Guofeng , Jiang Shan
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The objective of this study is to accurately predict the cost of green buildings to provide quantifiable criteria for investment decisions from investors.

Design/methodology/approach

This study proposes a hybrid prediction model ML-based for cost prediction of GBPs and obtains prediction parameters (PPs) associated with project characteristics through data mining (DM) techniques. The model integrates a principal component analysis (PCA) method to perform parameter dimensionality reduction (PDR) on a large number of raw variables to provide independent characteristic terms. Moreover, the support vector machine (SVM) algorithm is improved to optimize the prediction results and integrated with parameter dimensionality reduction and cost prediction.

Findings

The prediction results show that the mean absolute and relative errors of the hybrid prediction model proposed in this study are equal to 39.78 and 0.02, respectively, which are much lower than those of the traditional SVM model and MRA prediction model. Moreover, the hybrid prediction model with parameter dimensionality reduction also achieved better prediction accuracy (R2 = 0.319) and superior prediction accuracy for different cost terms.

Originality/value

Theoretically, the hybrid prediction model developed in this study can reliably predict the cost while accurately capturing the characteristics of GBPs, which is a bold attempt at a comprehensive approach. Practically, this study provides developers with a new ML-based prediction model that is capable of capturing the costs of projects with ambiguous definitions and complex characteristics.
Smart IoT-enabled vehicle-mounted weighing system for real-time monitoring and quantification of loose construction materials
Authors: Jadoon Abeer Ahmed , Aslam Mughees , Malik Muhammad Sohail Anwar , Alam Hamza
Published: February 2025

Purpose

In the construction industry (CI), inaccurate loose material measurements pose waste and economic challenges, accounting for approximately one-third of project cost overruns, representing 60% of the overall construction costs. Current practices for measuring loose construction materials are riddled with errors, direct adjustments and missing real-time oversight, resulting in waste, inefficiencies and cost escalations. This study aims to address this issue by automating the weighing mechanism of loose materials while regularly monitoring them during transportation from the source.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, an innovative Internet of Things (IoT) solution: a smart vehicle-mounted weighing (VMW) system was developed using the smart sensors, Arduino while using C++ language. Initially, a prototype was developed and tested/ refined while experimenting on a Tractor trolley loaded with loose construction materials. Statistical methods were employed to test the validity of the developed system against traditional methods of weighing. Finally, the system was tested and optimized in a real project through a case study.

Findings

The empirical findings reveal that the IoT-enabled smart weighing system achieved an accuracy exceeding 95% during rigorous field assessments. A comprehensive case study highlighted significant cost savings, with 2.7% for subbase materials and 5.94% for aggregate base materials. These results validate the successful development of the prototype, demonstrating its potential to improve material management, minimize waste, and enhance operational efficiency in construction projects while promoting sustainable practices.

Originality/value

Few studies have addressed fully automated measurement of loose materials during transport to construction sites. This study introduces a novel IoT-enabled smart VMW system for real-time material monitoring and automated quantity takeoffs (QTOs). The system offers CI a reliable, transparent, and error-free material management tool, advancing current practices in material quantification thereby leading the CI toward sustainability using the latest technologies.
Predicting microfinance inclusion and survival of microenterprises in rural Uganda: testing the mediating role of ethical financial behavior of poor young women owners
Authors: Okello Candiya Bongomin George , Semukono Frederick , Baleke Yiga Lubega Joseph , Balinda Rebecca
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The main purpose of this study is to test whether ethical financial behavior as a mediator promotes microfinance inclusion and survival of the poor young women microenterprises in rural Uganda.

Design/methodology/approach

The methods recommended by Kenny et al. (1998); Shrout and Bolger (2002); MacKinnon et al. (2004); and Preacher and Hayes (2004) were used to establish the existence of non-zero monotonic association between microfinance inclusion and survival through testing the mediating effect of ethical financial behavior in SmartPLS.

Findings

The results from the structural equation modeling revealed a significant full mediating effect of ethical financial behavior in the relationship between microfinance inclusion and survival of the poor young women microenterprises. Microfinance inclusion and ethical financial behavior explain 62 % of the variation in survival of the poor young women microenterprises in rural Uganda.

Research limitations/implications

Whereas significant results were obtained from this study, the data were collected only from rural-based poor young women microenterprises located in northern Uganda. Extending the sample to cover the whole country may provide a more representative picture. Besides, it would be useful to compare results across developing countries as this may provide information about the generality of our findings.

Practical implications

The findings from this study can be useful to managers of microfinance institutions in developing countries to adopt practice that can promote financial discipline among rural poor young women microentrepreneurs. Routine financial education and business mentorship can be organized through workshops, trainings and seminars to teach rural poor young women microentrepreneurs how to manage money, especially business loans borrowed from the microfinance institutions to put it into right use. This can help them to meet timely loan repayment to increase access to future microfinance loans.

Originality/value

This study provides the first evidence on the use of the theory of planned behavior (TPB) and theory of reasoned action (TRA) to explain microfinance inclusion of the poor young women microentrepreneurs in rural Uganda. The study uses a blend of TPB and TRA derived from psychology and sociology to explain repayment intention and ethical behaviors of the poor young women borrowers, which determines the microfinance lending cycle to make microcredit available for them to engage in entrepreneurship to come out of poverty to attain wellbeing.
Design and analysis of a cable-driven continuum robot with used in situ inspection
Authors: Qi Fei , Ge Yiwei , Liu Xianjun
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to present a kinematics performance analysis and control for a continuum robot based on a dynamic model to achieve control of the robot.

Design/methodology/approach

To analyze the motion characteristics of the robot, its kinematics model is derived by the geometric analysis method, and the influence of the configuration parameters of the robot on workspace is investigated. Moreover, the dynamic model is established by the principle of virtual work to analyze the mapping relationship among the bending shape, the forces/torques applied to the robot. To achieve better control of the robot, a control strategy for continuum robot based on the dynamic model is put forward.

Findings

Results of the simulations and experiments verify the proposed continuum structure and motion model, the maximum position error is 5.36 mm when the robot performs planar bending motion and the average position error of the robot in spatial circular motion is 5.84 mm. The proposed model can accurately describe the deformation movement of the robot and realize its motion control with a few position errors.

Originality/value

The kinematics analysis and control model proposed in this paper can achieve precise control of the robot, which can be used as a reference for the motion planning and shape reconstruction of continuum robot.
Looking at the beauty of halal through the stimulus-organism-response model and gender perspectives: the case of Indonesian Muslim
Authors: Hati Sri Rahayu Hijrah , Fenitra Rakotoarisoa Maminirina , Masood Adlin , Setyowardhani Hapsari , Abdul Rahim Alina , Sumarwan Ujang
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to explore the impact of external stimuli – perceived product quality, advertising value and the halal logo – on Muslim consumers’ attitudes and purchase intentions, using the stimulus–organism–response (S-O-R) model in accordance with its traditional framework. Additionally, it seeks to analyze and compare the purchasing behaviors of male and female consumers in the context of halal cosmetics.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey using purposive sampling was conducted with 635 Muslim consumers in Indonesia to test the proposed model using structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results demonstrated that perceived quality, advertising value and the halal logo significantly enhance attitudes toward halal cosmetics. However, when it comes to purchase intention, only advertising value and the halal logo directly influence it. In terms of gender comparison, the study found significant moderation of gender in the relationship between advertising value and attitude, with this influence being more pronounced among male consumers. The findings indicate that both perceived quality and the halal logo significantly and positively impact attitudes and purchase intentions for both male and female Muslim consumers, with a notably stronger effect observed among females. Interestingly, the influence of advertising value on attitude is significant only among male consumers, highlighting a gender-specific response to advertising stimuli.

Practical implications

The study suggests that businesses operating in the halal cosmetics market should focus on enhancing consumers’ perception of product quality through halal certification. Additionally, they should tailor their marketing strategies based on gender differences and prioritize the prominent display of the halal logo. These actions are expected to positively influence the attitudes and purchase intentions of Muslim consumers in Indonesia.

Originality/value

This study introduces a novel approach to the understanding of consumer behavior toward halal cosmetics by emphasizing the frequently overlooked role of external influences through the S-O-R theory. In contrast to earlier research, which predominantly focused on internal factors and religious compliance, this study explores the impact of marketing interventions such as product quality, advertising and the presence of a halal logo. Additionally, it distinguishes itself by examining the purchasing behavior of both female and male consumers in the realm of halal cosmetics.
Possible complications in oral surgery and their management in patients affected by type 1 diabetes: narrative review
Authors: Nagni Matteo , Severino Marco , Redi Lorenzo , Zizza Agostino , Pancrazi Gian Luca , Vavassori Emilio , D'Orto Bianca
Published: February 2025

Diabetes mellitus is a disease that affects millions of people worldwide, both in its juvenile form (type 1 diabetes) and in the form that affects adults and is related to lifestyle, diet, and sedentariness (type 2 diabetes). In addition to the disease itself, diabetes also includes various complications and, above all, creates a supportive environment for the development of further disorders and pathologies. Certain alterations favor oral pathologies in diabetic patients.
This narrative review aims to focus on diabetic patients and the possible oral complications that can occur in oral surgery sessions.
The MEDLINE database (NCBI PubMed and PMC) was employed to obtain sources of information. An online search was performed to select articles regarding complications in oral surgery for diabetic patients.
The search considered 52 articles using the following keywords: “diabetic patient,” “complications,” and “oral surgery.”
Although it is not possible to establish with certainty what the predisposing factors are, the scientific literature shows that the altered composition of saliva, together with the reduced immune response against bacteria, determines a lower antibacterial capacity in diabetic patients and, thus a higher frequency of inflammatory diseases caused by the accumulation of plaque and tartar; in particular, gingivitis, periodontitis, caries, aphthae or aphthous stomatitis, map tongue (benign migratory glossitis), xerostomia, tongue inflammation, and candidiasis.
In conclusion, the dentist must always take due account of all the needs of diabetic patients, trying to operate above all at the level of prevention and being aware of all the possible complications that diabetic patients could face during an oral surgery session.
Conscious sedation in dentistry: narrative review
Authors: Cusenza Irene , Pensa Vittorio , Rastelli Sofia , Galati Chiara , Cogotzi Stefano , D'Orto Bianca , Nagni Matteo
Published: February 2025

Purpose. The purpose of this narrative review is to demonstrate that conscious sedation is an anesthesiologic technique that, when appropriately performed, proves to be safe and valuable for the treatment of many cases that require its application such as: dental phobia patients, special needs patients, or simply to increase patient compliance in the case of investigative or very lengthy procedures.
Methods. All articles dealing with the topic of management of conscious sedation in dentistry were searched on the online platforms of scientific reading sites such as Pubmed and Medline, selecting the most current ones up to January 2022, including all languages. Considering the keyword “Sedation,” “ Dentistry,” “ Special needs,” “Dentophobia,” randomized controlled trials, prospective studies, observational studies, reviews, and retrospective studies were considered. Textbooks relevant to the topic were then reviewed, and citations of each retrieved article and those of expert opinions were examined to include as much information as possible.
Results. From the analysis of data found in the literature, it is possible to state that sedation is a special form of anesthesia that reduces pain sensitivity and induces myorelaxation, without impairing the patient’s consciousness. Moreover, it, which can be obtained by inhalation or pharmacological means, allows the patient to maintain autonomous breathing and to respond to physical and verbal stimuli.
Conclusion. Sedation in dentistry allows many patients to cope with dental sessions, reducing anxiety and emotional stress by eliminating the pain component. With conscious sedation, it is possible to bring the patient into a more relaxed situation by reducing stress and increasing compliance.
Dimensional Accuracy of Close Tray vs. Digital Techniques in Implant Impressions– An in vitro study
Authors: Mahdavinaderi Yas , Mobayeni Mahmood Reza , Ansari Lari Homeira , Sayyari Maryam , Mousavi Mohammad Reza
Published: February 2025

Background: Precise dimensional impression accuracy is crucial in dental prosthetics and implantology. This study aims to compare the dimensional accuracy of implant impressions achieved through intraoral scanning and conventional impression methods for parallel and angled implants.
Materials: This study created a partial edentulous maxillary model using heat-cured acrylic, with four fixtures in the premolar areas and two posterior implants inclined 15 degrees lingually on each side. Close tray copings and intraoral scanning with a TRIOS scanner were used for impressions. Distances A1, A2, and A3 (the distance between the most superior point of the central axis of two parallel implants, one parallel, and one angled implant, and two parallel implants, respectively) on the casts were measured using a Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM). Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences SPSS, with a significance set at P < .05, and T-tests were conducted.
Results: The digital method demonstrated statistically significant higher accuracy in the A1 and A3 distances (p-value=0.042 and 0.046, respectively). However, no significant difference was observed in the A2 distance (P = 0.205).
Conclusion: Digital methods proved more effective for transferring implant positions and creating related prosthetics, particularly in cases with notable implant angle variations. Nonetheless, both digital and conventional methods are clinically acceptable for implant position transfer.
Evaluation of a single non-surgical approach in the management of peri-implantitis: glycine powder air-polishing versus ultrasonic device
Authors: Memè Lucia , Bambini Fabrizio , Pizzolante Tommaso , Sampalmieri Francesco , Bianchi Alessia , Mummolo Stefano
Published: February 2025

Dental implants are often used to replace lost teeth and present a high level of predictability, patient satisfaction and long-term success. Biological complication such as peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis have, however, become major challenges to the profession.
The definition of peri-implant mucositis is an inflammation of the soft tissues adjacent to a dental implant diagnosed with bleeding on gentle probing (<0.20 N). if the clinical signs are combined with bone loss the condition is referred as peri-implantitis.
The treatment goal of peri-implant disease is to remove or significantly depress the levels of pathogens to allow healing of the soft and hard tissues. As peri-implant mucositis is a common clinical entity that may develop into peri-implantitis early recognition and proper diagnosis of peri-implant disease is of high importance in the treatment.
The aim of the presence study was to evaluate the clinical outcome (probing depth PD, bleeding on probing BoP, plaque index PI) following treatment of peri-implantitis with single non-surgical approach using a glycine powder air-polishing (GPAP) or an ultrasonic device over a 2-months period.
Thirty implants were enrolled and randomly assigned to test (GPAP) and control (ultrasonic device) groups. Significant differences were found in the mean of the clinical outcome evaluation but further observations of larger sample size of patients are needed.
A rare case of impacted mandibular premolar associated to dentigerous cyst and periodontal lesion clinical management and histological analysis
Authors: Gianfreda Francesco , Nucci Ludovica , Bollero Patrizio , Danieli Andrea , Palermo Andrea , Salvadori Paolo , Gargari Marco , Martelli Mirko
Published: February 2025

Background: Dental cysts, particularly dentigerous cysts (DCs), are a common pathological condition affecting the jawbone. The literature categorizes DCs based on histology and associates them with impacted teeth, often leading to complications.
However, the occurrence of DCs in the elderly and their association with mandibular premolars is not well-documented, presenting a knowledge gap in dental pathology and management.
Objective: This case report aims to present a rare clinical case of an impacted mandibular premolar associated with a dentigerous cyst and a periodontal lesion, detailing the clinical management, radiographic diagnosis, histopathologic analysis, and surgical intervention.
Case presentation: A 65-year-old male patient presented with pain and mobility in tooth 36. Clinical examination, radiographic imaging, and histological analysis were conducted to diagnose and plan the treatment—the treatment involved enucleation of the DC and extraction of the impacted tooth. Histological examination was performed using hematoxylin and eosin staining to determine the nature of the cyst.
Results: The patient’s postoperative recovery was uneventful, with complete remineralization of the site after one year. Histological findings indicated a significant inflammatory infiltrate, predominantly lymphocytes, suggesting a periodontal cyst.
The impacted mandibular premolar association with a DC in an elderly patient is rare, with the literature reporting a higher frequency of such cysts in younger demographics.
Conclusions: The case report contributes to the existing literature by highlighting the successful management of a rare case of an impacted mandibular premolar with a dentigerous cyst and periodontal lesion. It emphasizes the importance of accurate diagnosis and individualized treatment planning in managing complex dental cyst cases. It suggests a conservative approach to prevent surgical risks, especially near critical anatomical structures.
The use of ozone therapy for the treatment and post-surgical management of patients treated with bilateral extraction of the included third mandibular molars
Authors: Memè Lucia , Pizzolante Tommaso , Saggiomo Anna Pia , Plaku Dervish , Inchingolo Alessio Danilo , Inchingolo Francesco , Rastelli Sofia
Published: February 2025

The use of ozone in medicine and dentistry is well-supported in the scientific literature, particularly for its antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and anti-edema effects. These benefits are achieved through reductions in pro-inflammatory substances, stimulation of neoangiogenesis, and enhanced production of antioxidant enzymes. Additionally, ozone is pain-relieving by inactivating algogenic mediators and inducing endorphin release. Although ozone application devices are standard in conventional medicine, they are less so in dentistry and often have reduced performance. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a specific ozone therapy device in managing postoperative pain and promoting healing in patients undergoing impacted third-molar extractions. Materials and methods: Patients scheduled for the extraction of impacted third molars were enrolled in a randomized split-mouth study to receive either ozone therapy or conventional antibiotic treatment. The Visual Analog Scale (VAS) assessed pain intensity and healing progress. Results: Patients treated with ozone therapy reported significantly lower pain levels and demonstrated qualitatively improved healing compared to the control group, with statistical significance. Conclusions: The study supports the use of ozone therapy in routine dental surgical practice, highlighting its favorable cost/benefit profile. Ozone therapy can be beneficial for impacted third-molar surgeries and broader applications in oral surgery.
Keywords: Ozone therapy in dentistry, OZONE DTA equipment, Third molar
extraction and soft tissue healing.
Anatomically guided full arch implant-prosthetic rehabilitations
Authors: Rastelli Sofia , Caporro Giulia , Severino Marco , Bernardi Sara , Botticelli Gianluca , Gasparri Alberto , Pizzolante Tommaso
Published: February 2025

Aim: The loss of dental elements causes anatomical, functional, aesthetic, and psychological changes that reduce the patient’s quality of life and comfort. This study aims to show how implant-prosthetic restorations with full-arch immediate loading can be appropriately performed by an anatomically guided method.
Materials and methods: Two case reports of two male patients aged 69 and 60 years old who needed an implant-prosthetic full arch rehabilitation were documented to describe the surgical treatment.
Discussion: Human anatomy is the basis of any surgical treatment, so in oral surgery, the operator must have a detailed knowledge of the loco-regional anatomy of the head-neck district. For this reason, it is essential to know the topographical limits of the noble structures typically found in daily clinical practice to perform a precise surgical act under safe conditions. The validity of a complete dental arch rehabilitation method is emphasized in literature by inserting two axial implants positioned orthogonally to the occlusal plane in the anterior region and two distal implants inclined with a maximum of 30° distally in the posterior region. The literature reports of inclined implants have been proposed as an alternative to traditional protocols in rehabilitating edentulous jaws. All this can be achieved by carefully studying the clinical case at the beginning of the clinical and radiographic examination. In addition, knowledge of the anatomical reference points must be taken as a reference to obtain a method that is reproducible and adaptable to more clinical cases depending on bone mineralization.
Conclusion: Although it may seem excessively invasive, this method allows us to obtain optimal and reproducible results. It allows us to exploit not only the biomechanical advantages obtained by the structure of the prosthetic polygon but above all, those biological ones based on knowledge of the physiology of bone remodeling.
Student evaluation of teaching (SET) in dental faculty: is it influenced by grouping the students according to their averages?
Authors: Sadrhaghighi Hooman , Zarghami Afsaneh , Irani Mahdi , Eskandarinezhad Mahsa , Sadrhaghighi Shahrzad , Parvaresh Mahdi
Published: February 2025

Purpose/objectives: Student evaluation of teaching (SET) is a crucial method for assessing teaching performance in higher education. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of grouping students by their academic averages on SET results in dental education.
Methods: In this descriptive-analytical study, 109 dental students were divided into five groups based on their academic averages: 48 in the top 30%, 15 in the top 10%, 17 in the middle 10%, 16 in the lower 10%, and 48 randomly selected from the bottom 30%. These groups completed questionnaires evaluating five university professors across four aspects: teaching methods, academic proficiency, communication and behavior, and organization and discipline in theoretical lessons. Two weeks later, internal reliability was assessed by redistributing the questionnaires to 10% of participants. Statistical analyses were performed using Chi-Square and ANOVA with SPSS 18, considering results significant at P < 0.05.
Results: The internal reliability of the statements was moderate. Significant differences in mean scores among rater groups were observed for teaching methods (P = 0.001), academic proficiency (P = 0.043), and communication and behavior (P = 0.012). However, no significant difference was found for organization and discipline (P = 0.855).
Conclusion: Grouping students according to their averages may influence SET in certain teaching aspects. However, this approach does not appear to affect professors' organization and discipline evaluation.
Generation of a Multi-wing Hyperchaotic System with a Line Equilibrium and its Control
Authors: Mechekef Manal , Meddour Lotfi , Houmor Tarek
Published: February 2025

This paper presents the development of a new hyperchaotic system, created by the extension of the established Lu system to the four-dimension. The complex dynamics of this new system are explored through both theoretical analysis and numerical simulations. The study focuses on the systems dynamic behavior, equilibrium points, Lyapunov exponents and Poincare sections, as well as bifurcation diagrams and coexisting attractors to thoroughly characterize its properties. Moreover, two main methods were investigated to control the hyperchaos, linear feedback control and adaptive control. These approaches aim to stabilize the hyperchaotic system at unstable equilibrium points, even when system parameters are either known or unknown. Numerical simulations are performed to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed controllers.
A Portable Aspiration-Assisted Device for End-Cut Prostate Biopsy of Large Tissue Sample
Authors: Ungurait Dane , Araya Roy , Brisbane Wayne , Lampotang Samsun , Lawrence Elisabeth , Yamaguchi Hitomi
Published: February 2025

Needle biopsy is a common procedure used to diagnose various types of cancer, particularly prostate cancer. Current needle biopsy devices used in this procedure feature End-Cut and Side-Cut needles. They also typically have a loud and sudden spring-loaded firing mechanism with inaccurate needle positioning that can cause additional harm to the patient. A novel aspiration-assisted biopsy device has been developed by researchers at the University of Florida that uses a coaxial End-Cut needle attached to a syringe. The device utilizes vacuum pressure to retain tissue during the biopsy procedure and does not have a spring-loaded firing mechanism. This paper describes the design and development of the device and characterizes its performance by testing it on animal tissue ex-vivo alongside two other commercial biopsy devices currently used in clinical settings. Tests performed on bovine cardiac tissue ex-vivo indicated that the developed device performs comparably to the two commercial biopsy devices.
First records of the tick Ornithodoros puertoricensis (Argasidae) from three Iguana (Iguanidae) populations in the Caribbean Lesser Antilles
Authors: Van den Burg Matthijs P. , Debrot Adolphe O.
Published: February 2025

N/A
Seneca Valley virus 3C protease cleaves HDAC4 to antagonize type I interferon signaling
Authors: Li Zijian , Yang Jingjing , Ma Ruiyi , Xie Shijie , Wang Dan , Quan Rong , Wen Xuexia , Liu Jue , Song Jiangwei
Published: February 2025

Seneca Valley virus (SVV) is a newly identified pathogen that poses a notable threat to the global pig industry. SVV has evolved multiple strategies to evade host antiviral innate immune responses. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms have not yet been fully elucidated. Histone deacetylases (HDACs) have been shown to function as host antiviral innate immune factors. In this study, we examined the mechanisms underlying SVV evasion of host innate immunity and found that SVV infection induced degradation and cleavage of HDAC4. Ectopic expression of HDAC4 suppressed SVV replication, whereas siRNA-mediated knockdown of HDAC4 enhanced SVV replication. Further studies showed that the viral 3C protease (3C
pro
) degraded HDAC4 in a protease activity- and caspase pathway-dependent manner. In addition, 3C
pro
cleaved HDAC4 at Q599, which blocked its ability to limit viral replication. We also found that HDAC4 interacted with the SVV viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase 3D and induced its proteasomal degradation. The cleaved HDAC4 products did not block SVV replication or induce 3D degradation and did not induce type I interferon (IFN) activation and expression of IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs). Collectively, these findings identified HDAC4 as an antiviral factor with effects against SVV infection and provided mechanistic insights into how SVV 3C
pro
antagonizes its function, which has implications for viral evasion of innate immunity.

IMPORTANCE

Seneca Valley virus (SVV) is an emerging pathogen that causes vesicular disease in pigs and poses a threat to the pork industry. Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are important in the regulation of innate immunity. However, little is known about their roles in SVV infection. Our results revealed HDAC4 as an anti-SVV infection factor that targets the viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, 3D, for degradation. The SVV proteinase 3Cpro targets HDAC4 for degradation and cleavage, and cleavage of HDAC4 abrogated its antiviral effect. HDAC4 promotes type I interferon (IFN) signaling, and SVV 3Cpro-mediated cleavage of HDAC4 antagonized induction of type I IFN and interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs). Our findings reveal a novel molecular mechanism by which SVV 3Cpro counteracts type I IFN signaling by targeting HDAC4.
Community participation in social innovations in health: a qualitative study of women’s engagement in a local tuberculosis clinic in the Philippines
Authors: Tiangco Pauline Marie Padilla , Mier Abigail Ruth , Mier-Alpaño Jana Deborah , Muego Paul , Tongson Excelsa , del Pilar-Labarda Meredith
Published: February 2025

Background

We explore the perspectives and experiences of the Kalinga Leaders (K! Leaders), who are community volunteers of the social innovation, Kalinga Health. It is a 360° facility providing quality, affordable and comprehensive TB care in two urban cities in the Philippines. It acts as an intermediary agency between the public and private sector partners, ensuring continuity of care for patients. We explored how gender and other gender intersecting inequities and inequalities impact health conditions. Specifically, we explored how community engagement helps improve access to and uptake of health services.

Methods

A grounded theory approach was used to generate data from the perspectives of the community members and K! Leaders, which were explored through site visits, key informant interviews and a focus group discussion. Field notes and recording transcripts were used for thematic analysis to identify key patterns.

Results

Despite intersecting social factors that hinder their participation, K! Leaders remain motivated to become an integral part of the tuberculosis referral system in two urban cities in the Philippines, helping improve access to and uptake of health services in the communities they serve.

Conclusions

The K! leaders’ desire to help their communities and at the same time, empower themselves, motivates them to do a balancing act, which is facilitated by the culture of Kalinga Health, enabling them to thrive in an environment that champions gender diversity and equality.
Water, sanitation and social innovations in health: a qualitative exploration of gender and intersecting social stratifiers in a rural ram-pump project in the Philippines
Authors: Mier Abigail Ruth , Tiangco Pauline Marie Padilla , Mier-Alpaño Jana Deborah , Tongson Excelsa , Muego Paul Edward , del Pilar-Labarda Meredith
Published: February 2025

Background

Social innovation plays a critical role in addressing fundamental health determinants, such as access to safe water. Observational studies highlight how clean water disproportionately affects women and girls, resulting in persistent health problems influenced by gender norms around water and sanitation. Furthermore, gender intersects with other social stratifiers—such as socioeconomic status and geographic location—exacerbating this disadvantage. This study explores how gender and social stratifiers intersect in the context of a social innovation in the Philippines, a hydraulic ram pump model, which brings water to remote upland communities. Combining community-driven approaches with technical innovation, this innovation empowers communities, improves health outcomes and fosters resilience.

Methods

Qualitative research methods were used, including in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Data were analysed using a coding framework and MaxQDA software to identify key themes related to water and sanitation, gender norms and community participation.

Results

The findings highlight how gender norms intersect with socioeconomic factors and geographical location to influence health outcomes. Gender roles influence participation and underscore how context-specific and community-driven approaches address health disparities, emphasising the role of social innovations in equitable access to water.

Conclusion

Gender and social stratifiers intersect to shape individuals' experiences, creating disparities in health needs and access to resources like water. In social innovations, it is crucial to examine gender norms at the community level and understand the sociocultural realities people face. Social innovation research must evolve to consider these complexities, as gendered relations and intersecting social stratifiers directly influence health outcomes and access to resources.
Contribution towards gender transformative responses in community health: an exploratory rapid appraisal to initiate intersectional gender analysis of Philippine social innovations in health
Authors: Mier-Alpano Jana Deborah , Mier Abigail Ruth , Tiangco Pauline Marie Padilla , Muego Paul , Labarda Meredith , Juban Noel , Kharel Chandani , Otmani del Barrio Mariam
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Understanding gender norms, roles and relations within communities is critical for effective health interventions. This preliminary study aimed to explore how gender and other intersecting social factors interact with social innovations in health in the Philippines.

Methods

A rapid appraisal tool, based on an initial template provided by the Special Programme for Training and Research in Tropical Diseases, was revised following a literature review and user feedback. Social innovation cases were chosen from the database of the Social Innovation in Health Initiative Philippines Hub using specific inclusion criteria. Two independent reviewers used the checklist on these cases, leading to entry points for further intersectional gender research.

Results

The revised appraisal tool includes gendered mapping of stakeholders, a comprehensive checklist for gender appraisal across the stages of innovation and a self-check for researchers. Eight social innovations were selected and appraised, revealing research entry points including disaggregating data by sex, gender and other social identities; exploring gendered roles, norms and distribution of responsibilities within communities and innovations; and assessing the impact of innovations on men, women and people with non-binary identities, considering their intersection with other social identities.

Conclusion

This process illustrates the use of a ‘top-down’ approach (using existing social innovation and gender frameworks) and an inductive ‘bottom-up’ approach (using emerging insights from the appraisal of specific innovation cases), in creating an adaptive strategy towards gender-responsive research. Further work is needed to apply the appraisal tool to other types of innovations and for an in-depth study of the identified research entry points.
Barriers and facilitators to equitable community participation in the Social Innovation Health Initiative: a thematic analysis of a triethnic population in Pueblo Rico (Colombia)
Authors: Zuluaga Laura Sofia , Scott Charlotte Pana , Medina-Tabares Marcos , Rossi -Idárraga Maria , Bautista-Gomez Martha Milena
Published: February 2025

This article presents findings from an exploratory qualitative study on equitable community participation in the Social Innovation in Health Initiative (SIHI) in Pueblo Rico, Colombia, a municipality with a triethnic population comprising Afro-Colombian, Indigenous and mestizo communities. The study aimed to investigate how the intersections of gender, ethnicity, age and place of residence create barriers and facilitators impacting participation in SIHI. To accomplish this, focus groups and interviews were conducted. Guided by an intersectional gender lens, thematic analysis was employed to interpret the data. The results reveal that key barriers to gender equity in health participation for Indigenous and Afro-Colombian women include a lack of autonomy and social exclusion. Conversely, robust social organisations, individual motivation and commitment, and age serve as potential facilitators for enhancing participation equity.