bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of SARs-CoV-2 Pandemic on Infection Prevention Behaviors and Bacterial Burden of High Touch Surfaces in a Medical/surgical Setting
Authors: Resendiz Marisol , DNP Dawn M. Blanchard , Lustik Michael B. , Horseman Timothy S. , West Gordon F.
Published: September 2021

Background: This study aimed to determine the longitudinal efficacy of ultraviolet germicidal disinfection (UV-C) in a non-terminal disinfection context. Moreover, factors influencing enhanced infection prevention behaviors during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic were evaluated. Methods: Sixty nursing staff from three medical/surgical wards in a large military hospital were recruited for a survey and microbiological sampling of high-touch surfaces (stethoscope, personal electronic device, common access card, and hospital ID badge) and portable medical equipment (wheelchairs and mobile commodes). Surveys included hand hygiene estimates, frequency/method of cleaning, perception of UV-C, and factors influencing the use of enhanced disinfection tools. Surveys and microbiological samples were performed prior to and after the installation of a rapid, automated ultraviolet disinfection enclosure for staff use. Both time points preceded the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in the United States. A final survey/sampling time point was carried out eight months after the declaration of the COVID-19 pandemic. Results: Participants’ hand hygiene frequency did not increase throughout the study, with >80% reporting a minimum of 4 hand hygiene events per patient hour. The cleaning frequency of high-touch surfaces (but not portable medical equipment) increased after installation of a UV-C disinfection tool and was sustained eight months into the COVID-19 pandemic. While a modest decrease in bacterial burden was observed after UV-C intervention, a more significant reduction was observed across all surfaces during pandemic time sampling , though no detectable decrease in pathogenic contamination was observed at either time point. Motivators of UV-C use included fear of SARS-CoV-2 contamination and transmission, ease of device use, and access to rapid, automated disinfection tools while deterrents reported included technical concerns, lack of time, and preference for other disinfection methods. Conclusions: Automated, rapid-cycle UV-C disinfection can be efficacious for high-touch surfaces not currently governed by infection prevention and control guidelines. The introduction of enhanced disinfection tools like UV-C can enhance the overall cleaning frequency and is correlated with mild decreases in bacterial burden of high-touch surfaces, this is enhanced during periods of heightened infection threat. Evidence from this study offers insights into the factors which prompt healthcare workers to internalize/dismiss enhanced infection prevention procedures.
Predictors of Radiation-induced Hypothyroidism in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Survivors after Intensity-modulated Radiotherapy
Authors: Zhai Ruiping , Lyu Yingchen , Ni Mengshan , Kong Fangfang , Du Chengrun , Hu Chaosu , ying hongmei
Published: September 2021

BackgroundThe aim of the study is to identify clinical and dosimetric factors that could predict the risk of hypothyroidism in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) patients following intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT). MethodsA total of 404 non-metastatic NPC patients were included in our study. All patients were treated with IMRT. The thyroid function were performed for all patients before and after radiation at regular intervals. The time onset for developing hypothyroidism was defined as the time interval between the completion of RT and the first recorded abnormal thyroid hormone test. The cumulative incidence rates of hypothyroidism were estimated using Kaplan-Meier method. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed to detect the most promising factors that were associated with hypothyroidism. ResultsMedian follow up was 60.6 months. The 3-, 5- and 7- year cumulative incidence rate of hypothyroidism was 39.4%, 49.1% and 54.7%, respectively. The median time to primary hypothyroidism and central hypothyroidism were 15.4 months (range: 2.9-83.8 months) and 29.9 months (range: 19.8-93.6 months), respectively. Univariate and multivariate analyses revealed that younger age, female gender and small thyroid volume were the most important factors in predicting the risk of hypothyroidism. Dtmean (mean dose of thyroid), V30-V50 (percentage of thyroid volume receiving a certain dose level) and VS45-VS60 (the absolute volumes of thyroid spared from various dose levels) remained statistically significant in multivariate analyses. Cutoff points of 45 Gy (Dtmean), 80% (Vt40) and 5 cm3 (VS45Gy) were identified to classify patients as high-risk or low-risk group. ConclusionThyroid Vt40 predicted the risk of hypothyroidism after IMRT for NPC patients. We recommended plan optimization objectives to reduce thyroid V40 to 80%.Trial registration: retrospectively registered.
Linagliptin Ameliorates Pulmonary Fibrosis in Systemic Sclerosis Mouse Model via Inhibition of Endothelial to Mesenchymal Transition
Authors: Pei Biwei , Zhang Na , Pang Tingting , Sun Gengyun
Published: September 2021

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disease that often causes pulmonary fibrosis. Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4) inhibitor, has shown anti-fibrotic properties in various fibrotic diseases. However, only two studies have reported its anti-fibrosis effects in pulmonary fibrosis, and the mechanism is not completely clear. In the present study, we further investigated the protective effects of linagliptin, a highly specific DPP4 inhibitor, on pulmonary fibrosis in SSc mouse model and the potential mechanisms. The results showed that linagliptin ameliorated pulmonary fibrosis in SSc mouse model, as evidenced by improved pathological changes of lung and body weight loss induced by BLM. Linagliptin also reduced BLM-induced oxidative stress, inflammation in lung in vivo. We revealed that linagliptin attenuated BLM-induced endothelial to mesenchymal transition (EndMT) in vitro and in vivo. BLM-induced enhanced migration ability of endothelial cells was also alleviated by linagliptin. Moreover, we confirmed that the Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway was involved in BLM-induced EndMT in vivo, which was suppressed by linagliptin. In summary, we further confirmed the therapeutic effects of linagliptin on pulmonary fibrosis in SSc mouse model, which is based on its inhibitory effects on EndMT, oxidative stress and inflammation.
Nonlinear Dynamics of Electrostatic Comb-drive with Variable Gap Under Harmonic Excitation
Authors: Lukin Alexey V. , Indeitsev Dmitry , Popov Ivan , Mozhgova Nadezhda
Published: September 2021

This paper provides an extensive study of the nonlinear dynamics of a variable gap electrostatic comb-drive. The amplitude- and phase-frequency response, as well as the amplitude- and phase-force response of the comb-drive were obtained and analyzed with and without taking into account the cubic nonlinearity of the suspension. A significant variation in the frequency and force response is demonstrated in the presence of nonlinearity of the elastic suspension. Using numerical methods of bifurcation theory, solutions are obtained that correspond to the resonance peak of the frequency response when the constant and variable components of the voltages change. The result obtained makes it possible to determine the range of excitation voltage values that provide the required vibration amplitude in the resonant mode. The influence of the second stationary electrode on the dynamics of the system is estimated. The significant influence of this factor on the resonant-mode characteristics is revealed.
Cardiac Arrhythmia Detection using Dual Tree Wavelet Transform and Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Madhavi K Reddy , kora Padmavathi , Reddy L Venkateswara , Avanija J , Soujanya KLS , Prabhakar Telagarapu
Published: September 2021

The non-stationary ECG signals are used as a key tools in screening coronary diseases. ECG recording is collected from millions of cardiac cells’ and depolarization and re-polarization conducted in a synchronized manner as: The P-wave occurs first, followed by the QRScomplex and the T-wave, which will repeat in each beat. The signal is altered in a cardiac beat period for different heart conditions. This change can be observed in order to diagnose the patient’s heart status. There are life-threatening (critical) and non-life - threatening (noncritical) arrhythmia (abnormal Heart). Critical arrhythmia gives little time for surgery, whereas non-critical needs additional life-saving care. Simple naked eye diagnosis can mislead the detection. At that point, Computer Assisted Diagnosis (CAD) is therefore required. In this paper Dual Tree Wavelet Transform (DTWT) used as a feature extraction technique along with Convolution Neural Network (CNN) to detect abnormal Heart. The findings of this research and associated studies are without any cumbersome artificial environments. The CAD method proposed has high generalizability; it can help doctors efficiently identify diseases and decrease misdiagnosis.
First Comprehensive Proteome Analysis of Lysine Crotonylation in Streptococcus Agalactiae, A Pathogen Causing Meningoencephalitis in Teleosts
Authors: Chen Xinjin , Fan Bolin , Fan Chenlong , Wang Zhongliang , Wangkahart Eakapol , Huang Yucong , Huang Yu , Jian Jichang , Wang Bei
Published: September 2021

Backgroud Streptococcus agalactiae is a common colonizer of the rectovaginal tract and lead to infectious diseases of neonatal and non-pregnant adults, which also causes infectious disease in fish and a zoonotic risk as well. Lysine crotonylation (Kcr) is a kind of histone post-translational modifications discovered in 2011. In yeast and mammals, Kcr function as potential enhancers and promote gene expression. However, lysine crotonylation in S. agalactiae has not been studied yet. Methods In this study, the crotonylation profiling of fish pathogen, S. agalactiae was investigated by combining affinity enrichment with LC MS/MS. The Kcr modification of several selected proteins were further validated by Western blotting combined with real time PCR. Results In the present study, we conducted the proteome-wide profiling of Kcr in S. agalactiae and identified 241 Kcr sites from 675 screened proteins for the first time. Bioinformatics analysis showed that 164 sequences were matched to a total of six definitively conserved motifs, and many of them were significantly enriched in metabolic processes, cellular process, and single-organism processes. Moreover, four crotonylation modified proteins were predicted as virulence factors or to being part of the quorum sensing system PTMs on bacteria. The data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD026445. Conclusions These data provide a promising starting point for further functional research of crotonylation in bacterial virulence in S. agalactiae .
Bio-Fertilizer Affects Structural Dynamics, Function and Network Patterns of the Sugarcane Rhizospheric Microbiota
Authors: Liu Nathan , Pang Ziqin , Yang Zuli , Nyumah Fallah , Hu Chaohua , Lin Wenxiong , Yuan Zhaonian
Published: September 2021

Fertilizers and the microbial communities that determine fertilizer efficiency are key to sustainable agricultural development. Sugarcane is an important sugar cash crop in China, and using bio-fertilizers is important for the sustainable development of China's sugar industry. However, information on the effects of bio-fertilizers on sugarcane soil microbiota has rarely been studied. In this study, the effects of bio-fertilizer application on rhizosphere soil physicochemical indicators, microbial community composition, function and network patterns of sugarcane were discussed using a high-throughput sequencing approach. Experimental design: CK: no fertilizer application (0 kg/ha), CF: compound fertilizer (100 kg/ha, BF1: bio-fertilizer (100 kg/ha of biofertilizer + 3.8 kg/ha of urea), BF2: biofertilizer (150 kg/ha of biofertilizer + 3.8 kg/ha of urea). The results showed that bio-fertilizer was effective in increasing sugarcane yield by 7–17%, reducing soil acidification, changing the diversity of fungi and bacteria, and greatly altering the community composition and structure of rhizosphere microorganisms. Variance partitioning canonical correspondence (VPA) analysis showed that soil physicochemical variables explained 80.09% and 73.31% of the variation in bacteria and fungi, respectively. Redundancy analysis and correlation heatmap showed that soil pH, total nitrogen and available potassium were the main factors influencing bacterial community composition, while total soil phosphorus, available phosphorus, pH and available nitrogen were the main drivers of fungal communities. Volcano plots showed that using bio-fertilizers contributed to the accumulation of more beneficial bacteria at the sugarcane rhizosphere level and the decline of pathogenic bacteria (e.g. Leifsonia), which may slow down or suppress the occurrence of diseases. Linear discriminant analysis (LDA) and effect size analysis (LEfSe) searched for biomarkers under different fertilizer treatments. Meanwhile, support vector machine (SVM) assessed the importance of the microbial genera contributing to the variability between fertilizers, of interest were the bacteria Anaerolineace, Vulgatibacter and Paenibacillus; the fungi Cochliobolus, Sordariales and Dothideomycetes between CF and BF2, compared to the other genera contributing to the variability. Network analysis (co-occurrence network) showed that the network structure of bio-fertilizers was closer to the network characteristics of healthy soils, indicating that bio-fertilizers can improve soil health to some extent, and therefore if bio-fertilizers can be used as an alternative to chemical fertilizers in the future alternative, it is important to achieve green soil development and improve the climate.
Diabetes and Hypertension Among South Asians in New York and Atlanta Leveraging Hospital Electronic Health Records
Authors: Beasley Jeannette , Ho Joyce C , Conderino Sarah , Thorpe Lorna E , Shah Megha , Gujral Unjali P , Zanowiak Jennifer , Islam Nadia
Published: September 2021

BACKGROUND: Diabetes and hypertension disparities are pronounced among South Asians. There is regional variation in the prevalence of diabetes and hypertension in the US, but it is unknown whether there is variation among South Asians living in the US. The objective of this study was to compare the burden of diabetes and hypertension between South Asian patients receiving care in the health systems of two US cities. METHODS: Cross-sectional analyses were performed using electronic health records (EHR) for 90,137 South Asians receiving care at New York University Langone in New York City (NYC) and 28,868 South Asians receiving care at Emory University (Atlanta). Diabetes was defined as having 2+ encounters with a diagnosis of diabetes, having a diabetes medication prescribed (excluding Acarbose/Metformin), or having 2+ abnormal A1C levels (≥6.5%) and 1+ encounter with a diagnosis of diabetes. Hypertension was defined as having 3+ BP readings of systolic BP ≥130 mmHg or diastolic BP ≥80 mmHg, 2+ encounters with a diagnosis of hypertension, or having an anti-hypertensive medication prescribed. RESULTS: Among South Asian patients at these two large health systems, age-adjusted diabetes burden was 10.7% in NYC compared to 6.7% in Atlanta. Age-adjusted hypertension burden was 20.9% in NYC compared to 24.7% in Atlanta. In In Atlanta, 75.6% of those with diabetes had comorbid hypertension compared to 46.2% in NYC.CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest differences by region and sex in diabetes and hypertension risk. Additionally, these results call for better characterization of race/ethnicity in EHRs to identify ethnic subgroup variation, as well as intervention studies to reduce lifestyle exposures that underlie the elevated risk for type 2 diabetes and hypertension development in South Asians.
TMT-based Proteomic Analysis and Protein Expression During Excystation of Cryptosporidium Anderson
Authors: Li Dongfang , Cui Zhaohui , Wang Luyang , Zhang Kaihui , Cao Letian , Zheng Shuangjian , Zhang Longxian
Published: September 2021

Background: Cryptosporidium andersoni (C. andersoni) initiates infection by the release of sporozoites through excystation. However, the proteins involved in excystation remain unknown. Researching the proteins that participate in the excystation of C. andersoni oocysts will fill the gap in our understanding of the excystation system of this parasitic pathogen. Methods: In this study, C. andersoni oocysts were collected and purified from the feces of naturally infected adult cows. Tandem mass tags (TMT) coupled with liquid chromatograph- tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) proteomic analysis was used to investigate the proteomic expression profile of C. andersoni oocysts during excystation. Results: Our proteomic analysis identified a total of 1586 proteins, of which 17 were identified as differentially expressed proteins (DEPs), with 10 upregulated and 7 downregulated proteins. Each of those 17 proteins had multiple biological functions associated with control of gene expression at the level of transcription and biosynthetic and metabolic processes. Quantitative real-time PCR of eight selected genes validated the proteomic data.Conclusions: Our findings provide new information on the protein composition of C. andersoni oocysts as well as possible excystation factors. These data may help us to better understand the pathology of C. andersoni and thus may be useful in diagnosis, vaccine development, and immunotherapy for Cryptosporidium.
A new scoring system for placement of abdominal aortic balloon in Placenta accreta spectrum patients with placenta previa: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Huang Fusen , Wang Jingjie , Xiong Qiuju , Wang Wenjian , Xu Yi , Zhuo Jia , Xia Qiuling , Liu Xiaonan
Published: September 2021

Background

In recent years, abdominal aortic balloon occlusion is considered an effective method for placenta accreta spectrum patients with placenta previa. However, not all patients in this category require abdominal aortic balloon placement. This study aims to investigate whether the new scoring system is effective for the placement of the abdominal aortic balloon in Placenta accreta spectrum (PAS)patients with placenta previa.
Methods

PAS patients with placenta previa diagnosed by color Doppler ultrasound were included, and divided into three groups according to their scores graded by a new scoring system (grade Ⅰ group ≤ 5 points, 6 points ≤ grade Ⅱ group ≤ 9 points, grade Ⅲ group ≥ 10 points). Patients with grade Ⅲ were placed with an abdominal aortic balloon unless their families and patients strongly refused. Those with grade I were not placed with an abdominal aortic balloon. Those with grade II generally were not placed with an abdominal aortic balloon unless their families and patients strongly request. Indicators were analyzed, including postpartum hemorrhage, transfusion requirements, operation time, and the ability to preserve the uterus and fertility.
Results

Estimated blood loss, the number of intraoperative transfused patients, postoperative days were different among the three groups. In group 2 (grade II), there was no significant difference in other observation indexes༈intraoperative blood loss 629 ± 214 vs 758 ± 749, P = 0.488, packed red blood cells47 ± 194 vs 154 ± 445, P = 0.488, admission to ICU 0/7 vs 3/71, P = 1.000, total hysterectomies 0/7 vs 2/71, P = 1.000༉(except for the operation time81.4 ± 19.5 vs 61.7 ± 30.6, P = 0.013) between the abdominal aortic balloon and non-abdominal aortic balloon groups. In group 3 (grade III), significant differences were found in intraoperative blood loss (950 ± 390 vs 2238 ± 1052, P༜0.001), packed red blood cells(213 ± 311 vs 662 ± 528, P༜0.001), postoperative blood transfusion volume(105 ± 181 vs 300 ± 321, P = 0.008), operation time(90.0 ± 25.9 vs 115.9 ± 45.3, P = 0.013), the proportion of people who need blood transfusion(14 in the IABO vs 11 in the NIABO, P = 0.002) and the total Hysterectomies (0 in the IABO vs 2 in the NIABO, P = 0.011) between the abdominal aortic balloon and non-abdominal aortic balloon groups.
Conclusion

With the new scoring system, not all patients with PAS and placenta previa need a preventive temporary balloon occlusion of the subrenal abdominal aorta. We recommend placing an abdominal aortic balloon in patients with grade III, for it can control intraoperative bleeding and reduce intraoperative blood transfusion, and reduce the risk of hysterectomy. For patients with grade I and II, abdominal aortic balloon placement is not recommended.
A Disorienting Dilemma: Teaching and Learning in Technology Education During a Time of Crisis
Authors: Code Jillianne , Ralph Rachel , Forde Kieran
Published: September 2021

The way individuals interpret and reinterpret their experience is central to meaning-making and, ultimately, to teaching learning. Grounded in Mezirow’s Transformative Learning Theory, this research explores whether pandemic-related emergency remote teaching manifested in a disorienting dilemma for technology educators. Educators negotiated curricular outcomes between physical aspects of making and doing and design and creative problem solving resulting in a pandemic transformed pedagogy. Thematic analysis revealed that making and doing was severely challenged due to decreased communication, student motivation and engagement. However, most concerning to educators was the heightened disparity in equity and access in their most vulnerable and at-risk students.
Immunogenicity of SCB-2019 COVID-19 Vaccine Compared to Four Approved Vaccines
Authors: Ambrosino Donna , Han Htay Htay , Hu Branda , Liang Joshua , Clemens Ralf , Johnson Marina , Siber George , Goldblatt David
Published: September 2021

A significant correlation has been shown between the binding antibody responses against original SARS-CoV-2-S-protein all performed in one laboratory and vaccine efficacy of four approved COVID-19 vaccines. We therefore assessed the immune response against original SARS-CoV-2 elicited by the adjuvanted S-Trimer vaccine, SCB-2019 + CpG/alum, in the same assay and laboratory. When compared with four approved vaccines immune responses to SCB-2019 predicted 81% − 94% efficacy against the original strain and 75–94% against the Alpha variant (B.1.1.7). Immunogenicity comparisons to original strain and variants of concern (VOC) should be considered as a basis for authorization of vaccines because efficacy studies now have predominantly VOC cases.
Characteristics of composite deprivation indices used in public health: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Zelenina Anastasia , Shalnova Svetlana , Maksimov Sergey , Drapkina Oksana
Published: September 2021

Background: Deprivation index has become a more popular tool to rank levels of deprivation within different geographic areas. It is extensively used for monitoring health inequalities, evaluating health care services, developing and modifying health policies and programs, and allocating health resources equitably. In the current review, we will examine how in different countries deprivation indices were created. This is significant because indices have been used in public health for more than three decades. The first deprivation index was created in the UK in the late 1980s. A stock of knowledge and information about deprivation indices have been accumulated over this period. Our objectives are to explore the relevant literature to describe features of composite deprivation measures; create a list and classification of original deprivation indices. We will develop the classification of indices to systematize knowledge and improve the functional utility of the information. Moreover, the classification will provide an organized framework for planning and following through with the process of developing new deprivation measures.Methods: Any original deprivation index mentioned in peer-reviewed or grey literature documents will be eligible for inclusion if it assesses deprivation at a population level and used in relation to health. The study area will be limited to the geographic areas of North America, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. PubMed and grey literature databases will be searched to identify all relevant studies, without publication date restriction. Papers published in any language will be included to avoid language bias. Papers will be screened for inclusion by two independent reviewers. Tables and a narrative summary will be used to describe features of deprivation indices. Diagrammatic form will be used to create the classification of deprivation indices.Discussion: The aim of creating a taxonomy is to systematize information related to the methodology for constructing and using deprivation indices in public health research and practice. Practically, the results of this study could facilitate finding a common language among researchers and specialists who create and use deprivation indices, thus helping the development and implementation of appropriate deprivation indices for different countries.
Analysis of physical properties and compressibility of avian eggshell nanopowders in solid state reaction
Authors: Puspitasari Poppy , Iftiharsa Muhammad Asrorul , Zhorifah Herin Fikri Naufal , Gayatri Rara Warih
Published: September 2021

Eggshell is bioceramic material that produces by avian that commonly contains of 94 % calcium carbonate, 1 % magnesium carbonate, 1 % calcium phosphate, and 4 % other organic element. This study proposed to investigate the synthesis and characterization of avian eggshell powders. The avian eggshell that used in this study involved chicken, duck, and quail eggshells. The characterization of avian eggshell nanopowder for reducing their grain size from micro to nano involved ball milling process (solid state reaction) with the variation of milling times (3, 5, and 7 hours) and sintering temperature at 1000 oC for 2 hours. X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) test presented the phase characterization of quail eggshell nanopowder which ball-milled for 7 hours, obtained the smallest crystallite size at 19.2 nm. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) test presented the morphological analysis that showed changes in grain size and shape of each variety of the avian eggshell such as spherical, oval, wormlike, cubical, triangular, and some irregular grains. Energy Dispersive X-Ray (EDX) test presented the compound in avian eggshell powders that showed Ca and O level were the highest, while C was the lowest level. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) test presented the possibility of the functional group of the avian eggshell powders that showed Ca-O, Ca=O groups, CaCO3, asymmetric C-O, -CO3, amide, C=O, -OH, alkyl CH, and C-H. While compressibility shown the increase along with the decrease of crystallite and particles size in cubical grain. The highest compression ratio is 67.75 % for chicken eggshell nano powder with 5 hours milling time at 2000 kgf of compression loading
About the possibility of application of laser vacuum welding for the integration of elements of heat-protective structures from powder materials
Authors: Alnusirat Walid , Salenko Alexandr , Chencheva Olga , Shlyk Sergii , Gusarova Irina , Potapov Alexandr
Published: September 2021

The results of studying the process of laser vacuum welding of elements of heat-shielding panels made of heat-resistant dispersion-strengthened powder materials Ni-20Cr-6Al-Ti-Y2O3 of increased strength are presented. Such materials can be used to create ultralight heat-shielding panels, which are systems integrated on the surface of aircraft from typical modules of a cellular structure.

Technical solutions of heat-insulating modules are considered, which are a cellular (honeycomb) structure consisting of two plates with a thickness of 0.1 to 0.14 mm, inside which there is a thin honeycomb filler. It is shown that the small thickness of the plates and the complexity of integrating the elements into a single system significantly impair the formation of a strong connection of such elements and do not allow the direct use of the known methods of diffusion welding or vacuum brazing.

It has been established that laser welding of elements of heat-shielding structures in vacuum provides satisfactory strength of the structure of the heat-shielding element as a whole. Local heating at certain points prevents deformation of the parts to be joined during the welding process. The use of a pulsed Nd:Yag laser with a power of 400–500 W, operating in the frequency range of 50–200 Hz, allows welding with or without a filler powder. It was found that the use of filler additives practically does not affect the mechanical properties of the welded joint, however, it reduces the melt zone, while increasing the density of the welded joint.

Based on the results obtained, it was concluded that it is possible to use laser vacuum welding for the integration of thin elements of heat-shielding modules. It is shown that a satisfactory joint strength is achieved by ensuring high cleanliness of the surfaces of elements before welding, maintaining a high vacuum (less than 10–2 Pa) and rational thermal loading of the surfaces of the elements to be integrated.

The use of the proposed process makes it possible to obtain a stronger and denser seam in comparison with the known methods of soldering multicomponent powder dispersion-strengthened materials
AcceleDent Aura does not influence treatment duration or number of visits
Authors: Miles Peter , Pandis Nikolaos
Published: September 2021

Background

Many techniques and appliances claim to reduce orthodontic treatment time, one of which is micro-vibration applied by the AcceleDent Aura appliance.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to report compliance with AcceleDent Aura and to assess any effect on treatment duration, number of visits and bond failures.

Methods

Forty Class II adolescent subjects were randomly assigned to use the AcceleDent Aura appliance or no AcceleDent Aura device during orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances involving maxillary premolar extractions. Compliance was recorded by the AcceleDent Aura appliance and reported for the first 13 months. Overall treatment duration, the number of visits and number of bond failures were also recorded.

Results

AcceleDent compliance reduced over time from a mean 77.8% usage at the start to a mean of 39.5% by the thirteenth month. There was no difference in the number of bond failures between groups (p = 0.54) and there was no evidence that the use of the Acceledent Aura appliance influenced treatment duration (p = 0.26) or the number of visits (p = 0.56).

Conclusions

The AcceleDent Aura appliance had no significant effect on treatment duration, number of visits or the number of bond failures. Compliance with the appliance waned significantly over time.
A clinically based review of patient and treatment characteristics in West Australian private orthodontic practices
Authors: Lam Raymond , Mustac Simone , Goonewardene Mithran S.
Published: September 2021

Objective

To describe patient and treatment characteristics in West Australian private orthodontic practices.

Methods

A quantitative retrospective cross-sectional study of patient records from private practices in Western Australia was conducted. Permission was sought to access clinical records of 100 most recently-treated patients at each participating practice. A sample of 3,200 patients (response rate 84%) was collected, representing approximately one-third of practices in Western Australia, and simple descriptive statistics were applied to assess patient and treatment characteristics.

Results

The majority of patients were female (58.5%), adolescent and had private health insurance (75.6%). The most common patient complaint was crowding (37.6%) and aesthetics (21.3%). Data analysis indicated that 31% of patients were self-referred and a similar proportion did not have a specific complaint. Adult females had a higher interest in aesthetic options. Over half of the patients (56%) received first phase treatment, and non-extraction orthodontics accounted for 61.6% of cases. Full fixed appliances were the most commonly prescribed device (94%). The acceptance rate of orthognathic surgery, when offered, was approximately 30%.

Conclusion

Clinical data relating to actual patient presentations provide an invaluable insight into the realities of private practice. The eventual course of treatment is often determined by the patient’s tolerances and expectations as much as a clinical recommendation.
Facial soft tissue norms in Caucasians using an innovative three-dimensional approach
Authors: Ponnusamy Anand , Goonewardene Mithran S. , Mian Ajmal , Eastwood Peter , Rea Alethea , Islam Syed
Published: September 2021

Background and aim

Contemporary orthodontic and surgical treatment goals are primarily focussed on achieving optimal aesthetic soft tissue outcomes in three dimensions. It is important, therefore, to establish valid three-dimensional normative models to assist in clinical decision-making. Ideally, such models should be customised to a patient’s individual facial proportions. The aim of this study was to establish the most pleasing computer generated 3D facial form using a community-based sample population.

Methods

Three-dimensional facial surface data (3dMDface) were obtained from 375 young adult Caucasians (195 males and 180 females, all approximately 22 years old) without craniofacial anomalies, all of whom were participants in The Raine Study in Western Australia with participants from Generation 2. These data were used to generate seven faces that represented the variations in convexity distributed evenly around an average. The faces were subsequently rated by orthodontists, oral surgeons, plastic surgeons, dentists and laypeople for attractiveness.

Results and conclusion

Age, sex and occupation did not influence the preference among the various faces. The average face was rated as the most attractive. For males, a slightly concave profile and for females a slightly convex profile was preferred. The present study suggested that orthodontic/surgical treatment of Caucasians should be directed towards achieving an average facial form.
Orthodontic knowledge and referral patterns: a survey of paediatric specialists and general dental practitioners
Authors: Barzilay Vered , Ratson Tal , Sadan Noa , Dagon Nurit , Shpack Nir
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Early diagnosis and referral is essential in order to provide the best orthodontic care. Paediatric specialists (PSs) and general dental practitioners (GDPs) are usually the first dental professionals to diagnose a malocclusion.

Aim

To evaluate the knowledge and approach of PSs and GDPs in the management of children in reference to the timing of referral and early orthodontic intervention.

Methods

A survey assessed referral patterns and the respondents’ orthodontic knowledge regarding treatment timing and indications for early treatment in the early and late mixed dentition.

Results

One hundred and seventeen dentists participated in the study, of whom 79 were GDPs and 38 were PSs. The average total accuracy score in a 27-knowledge questionnaire was 68.6%, resulting in a statistically significant difference between the PSs and the GDPs. This difference arose from confusion regarding the prevention of maxillary permanent canine impaction and the need for a leeway space maintainer.

Conclusions

The GDPs and the PSs had a sound knowledge of orthodontics and a reasonable referral pattern, although the knowledge of PSs was significantly higher than that of the GDPs. There is a need for further education regarding orthodontic treatment needs and timing both in undergraduate/postgraduate training as well as in professional continuing education programs.
Growth-enabling modified Groper appliance for the replacement of permanent maxillary incisors: Report of two cases
Authors: Arikan Volkan , Ocal Duygu , Akcay Merve , Altug Ayse Tuba , Ozer Levent , Cesur Emre
Published: September 2021

The aim of this case report is to introduce a modified Groper appliance that enables transverse growth of the maxilla in addition to improving the aesthetics of patients with missing anterior teeth. Patient 1 was a 16-year-old young woman in the late stages of growth who presented with a congenitally missing maxillary lateral incisor. Patient 2 was a nine-year-old girl missing both of her maxillary central incisors due to trauma. The missing teeth were replaced by artificial acrylic teeth bonded onto growth-enabling, maxillary, fixed palatal space maintainers. A tube was soldered onto one of the arch wires of the maintainer and the opposite arch wire was threaded into this tube, allowing it to slide until the patient completed growth. Intermolar width increased by approximately 1.9 mm in Patient 1 and 2.6 mm in Patient 2 over the three-year review period. The in-tube mechanical design of the device allowed transverse growth of the maxilla without interference during and throughout long-term wear.
Social media and orthodontics: An analysis of orthodontic-related posts on Instagram
Authors: Buyuk Suleyman Kutalmış , Alpaydın Mehmed Taha , Imamoglu Tugce
Published: September 2021

Objective

The objective of this study was to determine the quality and content of orthodontic-related posts on Instagram.

Materials and methods

Eight orthodontic-related ‘hashtags’ were determined, and a total of 240 posts divided into 30 posts from each hashtag were investigated at two different time periods. Duplicate and unrelated posts were excluded from the study.

Results

A total of 227 Instagram posts (182 photographs, 45 videos) were analysed at two evaluation periods. The number of deleted Instagram posts was 13 and all were photographs. Most educational content was liked in the #orthodontics hashtag of the eight determined hashtags (p < 0.02). Most posts were shared for advertising purposes by other hashtags. Most posts were shared by dental professionals (152 posts). The group that shared the least number of posts were the dental companies (seven posts).

Conclusions

It was noted that Instagram is mainly used by dental professionals rather than for advertising purposes. Orthodontists should be aware of the content of social media platforms and educate and direct their patients towards correct and reliable Instagram resources.
A stepwise approach to the correction of excessive gingival display: an integrative review of the literature
Authors: Hung Yi-Jun , Lin I-Ping , Wang Szu-Han , Lai Eddie Hsiang-Hua
Published: September 2021

Background

Excessive gingival display is an aesthetic concern for patients and a challenge for clinicians. An accurate diagnosis is essential in order to provide effective treatment.

Aim

The aim of the present article is to fill a gap in the current literature by providing clinicians with an overview and a stepwise approach to assessing gingival excess, as well as reviewing possible treatment.

Method

Published articles related to smile aesthetics and excessive gingival display over the last 40 years were identified and analysed through an electronic search.

Results

An examination should be initiated extra-orally to distinguish contributing skeletal factors. The relationships of four aesthetic parameters (LIPG): lip length (L), incisal lines (I), tooth proportions (P), and gingival lines (G), should be examined individually to determine other possible causes of gingival excess. Contributing factors may include a short or hypermobile upper lip, dentoalveolar extrusion, or altered passive eruption. Further investigation to identify patients who might benefit from orthognathic surgery, orthodontic treatment alone, lip repositioning or botulinum injection, or aesthetic crown lengthening procedures, should be conducted to reconfirm a diagnosis and provide the optimal treatment.

Conclusion

Clinicians can have a dental blueprint for anterior tooth reconstruction and are able to provide comprehensive treatment in co-operation with other disciplines. By understanding the principles of an aesthetic smile line, the aetiology of an excessive gingival display and treatment concepts, clinicians may provide alternative treatments to avoid extensive surgical procedures while achieving acceptable outcomes.
Maxillary distraction osteogenesis and a Le Fort I osteotomy for severe maxillary retrognathia in cleft lip and palate: a case report
Authors: Fowler Peter V. , Steenberg Leon , Nguyen Tung
Published: September 2021

Background

The correction of severe maxillary retrognathia in patients presenting with a cleft palate is challenging due to the complexity of the orthodontic preparation and the magnitude of the surgical movements required, along with the relatively high risk of relapse.

Materials and methods

An 18-year-old Caucasian male with a repaired left-side unilateral cleft lip and palate presented with concerns relating to poor facial aesthetics and poor occlusion. Multidisciplinary treatment involving orthodontics and orthognathic surgery were undertaken to correct the severe maxillary retrognathia. The correction involved the use of internal distraction osteogenesis followed by a conventional maxillary Le Fort I advancement with rotation.

Results

Pre- and post-treatment lateral cephalogram measurements showed the maxilla was advanced 18 mm, rotated clockwise producing a 9 mm increase in vertical dimension at A point and a 7 mm gain in relative arch width across the first molars. Follow-up CBCT superimpositions showed excellent skeletal stability of the achieved anterior-posterior, lateral and vertical corrections over a 2.4-year period, although there was some minor dental relapse.

Conclusion

This case report illustrates the successful use of orthodontics and distraction osteogenesis followed by conventional Le Fort I advancement surgery to correct a severely retrognathic maxilla in a patient with a repaired unilateral cleft lip and palate.
Interdisciplinary approach for a patient with excessive gingival display – a case report
Authors: Hung Yi-Jun , Lin I-Ping , Lai Eddie Hsiang-Hua
Published: September 2021

Excessive gingival display is often an aesthetic concern for patients and a challenge for clinicians. Multiple causes are possible and focused treatment options should be considered. The aim of this article is to emphasise the importance of interdisciplinary treatment for patients presenting with excessive gingival display. A 49-year-old female patient who suffered from prominent teeth and a gummy smile was diagnosed with skeletal and dental Class II relationships and a hypermobile upper lip. Aesthetically pleasing outcomes and stable occlusal function were achieved as a result of orthodontic treatment and a surgical lip repositioning procedure. The outcome was maintained after a two-year follow–up.
The impact of treatment cost on low SES families: an orthodontic viewpoint
Authors: Smith Lee , Jack Hannah , Antoun Joseph , Fowler Peter , Blanch Keely , Foster Page Lyndie
Published: September 2021

Background

It is reported that in New Zealand financially disadvantaged adolescents are less likely to access orthodontic treatment than the more affluent in society.

Objectives

The aim of the study was to investigate the attitudes of a group of New Zealand orthodontists towards the current fee-for-service model of treatment funding. A second aim was to explore orthodontists’ perceptions of how the affordability of orthodontic treatment affects low socio-economic families.

Methods

As part of the project, 11 volunteer orthodontists were interviewed. A subsequent content analysis of the collected data was performed.

Results

Most participants reported that parents would feel inadequate if they were unable to secure orthodontic treatment for their child; however, some participants also indicated that it was common for parents to ‘go without’ to fund their child’s treatment. Most participants maintained that the government should only fund treatment for severely disabling malocclusions but not other treatments due to the limited health budget and orthodontic treatment being primarily considered for aesthetic reasons. Some participants reported that if the government funded orthodontic treatment, it would result in over subscription and compromised standards of care.

Conclusion

Despite some low socio-economic families being unable to access orthodontic treatment because of the expense, the current fee-for-service model may be the best method for delivering high standards of orthodontic care.
Considering malocclusion as a disability
Authors: Blanch Keely , Antoun Joe , Smith Lee , Jack Hannah , Fowler Peter , Page Lyndie Foster
Published: September 2021

Background

Numerous studies have indicated that a malocclusion possibly affects young people’s well-being and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL). Dento-facial aesthetics may influence how people are judged and may elicit social consequences such as bullying and negative comments. The present study aimed to explore the impact of a malocclusion on young New Zealanders who sought subsidised treatment from the Wish for a Smile (WFAS) organisation and to determine their motivation for seeking care.

Method

A qualitative thematic analysis of 151 application letters to WFAS from young people (aged 11–18 years) and their caregivers was supplemented by telephone interviews of nine successful and nine unsuccessful applicants to explore their experiences through their own words.

Results

In both the letters and the interviews, young people most commonly reported psychological impacts, followed by social and emotional effects associated with their malocclusion. Physical impacts were less commonly reported. In their application letters, caregivers, although at lower frequencies, reported that the young people experienced the same impacts. One caregiver referred to the young person’s malocclusion as a temporary disability.

Conclusion

For some young people, a malocclusion may lead to social consequences that are disabling. When considering funding options, it is important to note the individual experience and the impact that a malocclusion might have upon the young person’s well-being.
Prevalence of cervical vertebrae anomalies in patients with cleft lip and palate
Authors: Kharbanda Om Prakash , Qureshi Tabassum , Kandasamy Devasenathipathy
Published: September 2021

Objective

To investigate the prevalence of cervical vertebral anomalies (CVA) in a group of patients presenting with cleft lip and palate (CLP) and to compare with a non-cleft population.

Material and methods

The sample comprised of 150 lateral cephalograms of non-syndromic patients with CLP and 150 non-cleft age-matched controls. The age range of both groups covered 6 to 20 years. An expert radiologist blinded to the cleft status evaluated the cephalograms for CVA and categorised them into normal, fusion, dehiscence and multiple cervical anomalies. The cleft group was subdivided according to the types of cleft (UCLP/ BCLP/ CPO) and gender (male/female). The CVA prevalence was compared between the cleft and non-cleft patients.

Results

The prevalence of CVA was 37.7% and 20.7% in cleft and non-cleft patients, respectively. The difference was statistically significant with a p-value <0.01. Of the types of clefts, a left UCLP had the highest prevalence of CVA (47.2%), with fusion (35.8%) most commonly seen. On comparing CLP with CPO, no significant variation was observed between the types of anomalies.

Conclusions

A high prevalence of CVA was observed in cleft patients compared with non-cleft subjects. The prevalence of CVA was similar between males and females. The practitioner should carefully evaluate the lateral cephalogram of CLP patients for CVA, which otherwise may remain undetected and lead to neurological symptoms later in life.