bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Theoretical Calculations on the Effect of Adsorbed Atom Coverage on the Sodium Exospheres of Airless Bodies
Authors: Morrissey Liam S. , Lewis Jesse , Ricketts Amanda , Berhanu Deborah , Bu Caixia , Dong Chuanfei , Ebel Denton S. , Harlow George E. , Huang Ziyu , Leblanc Francois , Sarantos Menelaos , Verkercke Sebastien
Published: February 2025

Our ability to understand the formation of the exospheres of airless bodies such as the Moon and Mercury has been hindered by uncertainties in how surface processes influence exospheric sources. Ejection processes important for exosphere formation rely on the notion that an emitted atom must first overcome an attractive energy with the surface to be ejected into the exosphere (the surface binding energy, SBE). Recent studies have shown that atoms from minerals are more tightly bound than commonly assumed, making it difficult to reconcile how such high volatile concentrations are being observed in the exospheres of airless bodies. Here, we used molecular dynamics modeling to explain the physics underlying the interaction of low-energy returning atoms, initially ejected below the escape energy of the body, with mineral surfaces. Global exosphere models make ill-informed assumptions for these interactions due to a lack of SBEs for adsorbed atoms. Results provide first-of-their-kind SBE distributions for adsorbed atoms and can be used by global models to better understand exosphere formation on airless bodies. We highlight the importance of adsorbate coverage and the atomic arrangement of a surface on the SBE. At low absorbate coverage sodium forms ionic bonds with oxygen, leading to tightly bound adsorbates (SBE ∼6 eV). At 1 ML of coverage the free O is terminated and Na is unable to form strong ionic bonds, leading to loosely bound adsorbates (SBE 1–3 eV). Emission processes from covered surfaces will be far more efficient than those without adsorbates. These improvements will allow for better interpretation of mission data such as from MESSENGER, BepiColombo, LADEE, Europa Clipper, and Artemis.
Two new species of the purse-web spider genus Atypus Latreille, 1804 from China (Araneae, Atypidae)
Authors: Li Yangxin , Li Fan , Li Daiqin , Xu Xin
Published: February 2025

Two new species of the purse-web spider genus Atypus Latreille, 1804, collected from China, are diagnosed and described based on the genital morphology of both sexes: A. daweisp. nov. (♂♀) and A. liuisp. nov. (♂♀). These species are widespread in central China. Atypus daweisp. nov. is found in Anhui, Hunan, and Jiangxi provinces, while A. liuisp. nov. is distributed across Anhui, Guangxi, Guizhou, Henan, Hubei, Hunan, and Jiangxi provinces.
Project based learning framework with STEAM methodology assessed based on self-efficacy: Does it affect creative thinking skills and learning achievement in studying fundamental computers?
Authors: Ekayana Anak Agung Gde , Parwati Ni Nyoman , Agustini Ketut , Ratnaya I Gede
Published: February 2025

Students must grasp creative thinking as a crucial 21st-century talent to enhance learning achievement. Empirical research indicates that pupils' creative thinking skills and learning successes require enhancement and attention. This study examines the impact of a project based learning framework with STEAM methodology and self-efficacy levels on creative thinking abilities and learning achievement in primary computer education, focusing on computer architecture. A quasi-experimental pretest-posttest non-equivalent control group design was utilized to develop the research design. One hundred students were enrolled, of which 50 were divided into the experimental and control groups. Research data was collected using questionnaires and test devices. Student self-efficacy was assessed using a 44-item questionnaire, creative thinking skills were evaluated with a 10-question essay test, and student learning achievement was measured using a multiple-choice test. Data analysis entails the application of descriptive and inferential statistics, specifically using MANCOVA. Research indicates that implementing the project based learning framework with STEAM methodology is effective in enhancing students' creative thinking abilities and academic performance. Research shows that self-efficacy affects creative thinking skills and learning achievement differently. A p-value of less than 0.05 denotes this. The project based learning framework with STEAM methodology has been proven to help enhance creative thinking abilities and learn accomplishment through simultaneous and partial testing. This strategy is indicated for enhancing creative thinking skills and improving learning achievement.
Improving Students’ Motivation for Physical Activity Using Digital Media: A Quasi-Experimental Study in Physical Education Using Smartphones and Tablets
Authors: Mackenbrock Juliane , Gawlik Angeli , Pels Fabian , Kleinert Jens
Published: February 2025

Based on the potential of digital media (DM) to increase students’ motivation in physical education (PE), this study investigated the effects of a theory-based tablet and smartphone intervention on students’ motivation in PE. A total of 309 students (8th and 9th grade) participated over five weeks. The intervention group (n = 161) carried out DM-supported PE lessons. Basic psychological need satisfaction (BPNS) and behavioral regulation were assessed. Results show no significant differences between groups on BPNS and behavioral regulation. However, BPNS moderated behavioral regulation regardless of the group. The non-significant results on BPNS and behavioral regulation show that the intervention did not lead to a significant improvement in motivation, which may be due to too little autonomy support, too little attractive content, and too little fun for the students. Future studies should investigate students’ preferences for DM in PE and use these findings to develop interventions to support BPNS in PE.
Dawwen: An Arabic Mental Health Mobile App Based on Natural Language Processing
Authors: Wali Arwa , Almagrabi Hana , El-Feky Sarah , Jokhdar Maryah
Published: February 2025

People are increasingly concerned about their mental health wellness. Scientific studies suggest that online counselling for anxiety and depression is just as effective as in-person treatment. Additionally, journaling interventions have shown promise for individuals dealing with mental and psychological issues. In recent years, a growing number of mobile applications have been developed to improve people’s mental wellness and emotional communication. However, many of these applications are not available in Arabic but are available only in English or the native languages of their users, while other applications have feature limitations. This study presents a prototype of an interactive mental health mobile application, called Dawwen, to assist Arab individuals in freely expressing their feelings through online journaling, receiving recommendations for practices and activities, and locating nearby therapy centers based on their geolocation. Dawwen is augmented with an easy-to-use interface, a natural language processing (NLP) technique for analyzing the user input, and integrated features. The system is implemented using Android Studio and various cloud-based tools, making it adaptable for the integration of more advanced artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in the future. The System Usability Scale (SUS) scored an average of 88.25%, indicating high user satisfaction with the app’s functionality and ease of use. The study highlights Dawwen’s effectiveness in improving mental health support for Arabic-speaking users, filling a critical gap in existing digital mental health resources.
Mobile Application of Inductive Multi-Strategies for Virtual Teaching of Research to Engineering Students
Authors: Iraola-Arroyo Alonso , Iraola-Real Ivan , Iraola-Real William
Published: February 2025

The university curriculum requires the implementation of various strategies for research training. Accordingly, the present study aims to implement a multi-strategy mobile application for the teaching of research by engineering students of a private Peruvian university. Using a mixed methodology, in the first study, action research was applied with the participation of four teachers and two academic coordinators. Management documents such as the University Law and curricular documents such as syllabi were analyzed. Thus, a multi-strategy learning session was designed and tested according to SINEACE standards. Then, in the second quantitative study, the proposed sessions suggested by the teachers were applied to a sample of 167 students of Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, and Industrial Engineering, who achieved “excellent progress” in conceptual skills and “good progress” in procedural skills for research.
A Mobile Technology-Based Framework for Digital Libraries: Bridging Accessibility and Personalized Learning
Authors: Fu Jia , Yan Shi , Chen Xiangru
Published: February 2025

With the rapid development of mobile technology, digital libraries have become critical platforms for supporting education and academic research. However, traditional digital libraries face significant challenges in terms of accessibility on mobile devices and personalized learning support. In particular, existing technologies and research have yet to comprehensively address the need for meeting diverse reader requirements and enhancing the convenience and flexibility of information access. Against this backdrop, a mobile technology-based digital library framework was proposed in this study, aimed at improving the reader experience and promoting personalized learning through accessibility-assistance tools and personalized learning path recommendation systems. Specifically, the study focuses on two core components: (a) the design of accessibility-assistance tools for mobile digital libraries, ensuring that diverse readers, particularly those with special needs, can easily access information; and (b) the development of personalized learning path recommendation methods, integrating readers’ interest points with learning themes to achieve more precise and intelligent learning support. By integrating mobile technology with intelligent recommendation algorithms, innovative applications within the digital library domain were explored, with the goal of offering new insights into enhancing the quality of digital library services and learning efficiency.
Il demone moderno. Soggettività e alterità in Leopardi
Authors: Cori Paola
Published: February 2025

L’articolo esamina la riflessione leopardiana su soggettività e alterità proponendo una lettura del Dialogo di Torquato Tasso e del suo Genio familiare e del Dialogo della Natura e di un Islandese in chiave postumana. Misura l’influenza delle Lettere sul mesmerismo di Francesco Orioli su alcune soluzioni creative, al contempo rivelandone il palinsesto platonico. Le due operette sono legate da una medesima urgenza di risposta a fondamentali quesiti identitari che Leopardi individua nel passaggio dall’essere partecipante (naturalmente plurale) del demone socratico, cui allude il Tasso, alla Natura emanante rappresentata nell’Islandese in cui è immerso un Io moderno tragicamente destinato a soccombere in quanto impermeabilmente singolo. I due componinmenti tracciano una storia della mente e il presente studio li legge come fossero l’uno il negativo fotografico dell’altro, avanzando un’ipotesi sulla loro collocazione adiacente nell’edizione definitiva delle Operette.
“Son tutti morti”. Human Extinction and the Apocalyptic Imaginary in Giacomo Leopardi
Authors: Ferri Sabrina
Published: February 2025

This article investigates the speculations on and depictions of human extinction in Giacomo Leopardi’s writings, with particular emphasis on the Operette morali (1824–1832). It argues that Leopardi imagines human extinction as an anthropological thought-experiment that allows him to both re‑envision humans as biological beings and reimagine them as ephemeral entities in a larger system of change, which is the material universe. The perspective afforded by the Operette, which is paradoxically both anti-anthropocentric and obsessively focused on the investigation of human nature, reveals the non‑human as the privileged vantage point from which to contemplate human extinction and the end of the world. As Leopardi experiments with shifting points of view and timescales, the human perspective is decentered if not completely eliminated, in a shift that is as unsettling as it is liberating.
A abordagem das relações entre fala e escrita nas práticas de duas professoras da Rede Municipal do Recife
Authors: Teixeira de Souza Julia , Ferraz Leal Telma
Published: February 2025

O propósito deste artigo é refletir sobre as o ensino das relações entre fala e escrita, sistematizando resultados de pesquisas anteriores para caracterizar as diferentes dimensões desse trabalho pedagógico. Para problematizar esse tema, buscou-se também analisar práticas de duas professoras do 4º ano do Ensino Fundamental da Rede Municipal do Recife. Quanto à caracterização do ensino das relações entre fala e escrita foram retomadas as categorias “oralização do texto escrito ou memorizados”; “reflexões sobre semelhanças e diferenças entre textos orais e escritos”; “oralidade como apoio à produção escrita” e “escrita como apoio à produção oral”, construídas por Leal et al (2012), Leal e Seal (2012), Leal (2022) e Souza (2022). Quanto à análise das aulas observadas, os dados evidenciaram que nas práticas das professoras prevaleceram apenas situações de leitura em voz alta (oralização de textos escritos ou memorizados) e a escrita de textos para apoio à produção oral, em situações de produção de gênero orais. As demais categorias não foram abordadas, evidenciando a necessidade de aprofundamento de estudos sobre a didática do ensino da linguagem oral e suas interfaces com a escrita.
AI-Based Mobile Application for Personalized Monitoring of Healthy Sitting Posture
Authors: Coskun Huseyin
Published: February 2025

In modern workplaces, many individuals spend extended periods sitting, often in positions not recommended by health professionals, which can lead to skeletal, back, muscle, and heart issues. This study developed a mobile application that monitors sitting postures based on health guidelines. Using a smart seat cover embedded with electro-textile sensors from previous research, sitting experiments were conducted to assess posture. Participants were first instructed in healthy posture, then asked to sit as they preferred, including the healthy posture, for 5 minutes. The recorded data were categorized manually by reviewing experiment videos, creating a dataset of healthy and unhealthy postures. This dataset was classified using ANN, gradient boosting (GB), AdaBoost, and random forest algorithms, with a 70/30 train-test split and 5-fold cross-validation. ANN, GB, AdaBoost, and random forest achieved accuracy rates of 99.8%, 100%, 99.2%, and 99.3%, respectively. Based on the GB model, a Java-based Android mobile app was developed for real-time monitoring and posture notifications.
Golden S sign in a patient with squamous cell carcinoma of the lung: A case report
Authors: Angammana Chathurangi , Udayakumaran P. , Silva S.
Published: February 2025

No abstract available
Identification of Actinobacillus seminis as the cause of abortion in sheep by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry and whole genome sequencing
Authors: Rondinone Valeria , Palazzo Lucia , Bianco Angelica , La Rosa Giuseppe , Manzulli Viviana , Galante Domenico , Del Sambro Laura , Toce Mariateresa , Romano Antonella Cristina , Pace Lorenzo
Published: February 2025

Actinobacillus seminis is a gram-negative bacterium that affects reproductive organs, causing epididymitis, low fertility, and occasional abortions in sheep and goats. The virulence factors and the pathogenicity mechanisms of A. seminis have not been clearly elucidated yet. The aim of this study is to report a laboratory investigation performed on a sheep farm in the Basilicata region (southern Italy) following cases of abortion. Four samples of aborted fetuses taken from two sheep were analyzed to investigate the main pathogens causing abortions by bacterial isolation. In addition, serum samples belonging to the sheep have also been analyzed. Analysis by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) of the isolated colonies identified protein spectra referable to A. seminis. This result was also confirmed through the use of genome sequencing. Therefore, these data could explain cases of abortion that occurred on the farm and would confirm that MALDI-TOF MS technology is a rapid, accurate, and inexpensive method for identifying bacteria.
Different wavelengths of light influence daily swimming activity in silver catfish (Rhamdia quelen)
Authors: Giannetto Claudia , Arfuso Francesca , Scaglione Maria Cristina , Piccione Giuseppe , Faggio Caterina , Arrigo Federica , Cerutti Raul Delmar
Published: February 2025

The aim of this study was to investigate the daily rhythms of swimming activity in Rhamdia quelen maintained under different wavelengths of light. Thirty fish were equally divided into ten 100 liters tanks. The water temperature was maintained at 25±0.2ºC. In each tank, an infrared photocell was installed. The tanks were equipped with RGB LED strips placed at the top. Fishes were exposed to different 7 day-periods of 12/12 light/dark hours. In each period, a different light color was used: white (150 lux), red (12 lux), green (180 lux), blue (50 lux), and again white (150 lux). The application of cosinor-based techniques for the analysis of time series showed a daily rhythm of swimming activity in all tanks, in all experimental conditions. Acrophase was diurnal during the first white light schedule, on the second day of red light it was observed at the beginning of the light phase. During the green and blue schedules, acrophase was observed during the dark phase of the experimental photoperiod. In the second white schedule, it shifted in the middle of the light phase. Robustness was variable among the different lighting schedules and days of monitoring. The application of two-way of repeated measure analysis of variance showed a statistical effect of experimental lighting and day of monitoring on all rhythmic parameters. In conclusion, Rhamdia quelen lives in the deep regions of rivers, this could be the reason because the green lighting creates a reasonable environment that does not disturb the biological clock driving the swimming activity in this fish species. This information could be useful for application in aquaculture to improve fish welfare, reduce costs, and increase productivity.
Prayers for women’s livelihoods in Zimbabwe during the COVID-19 lockdown era
Authors: Humbe Bernard P.
Published: February 2025

This study is centred on African Initiated Churches (AICs) and women’s livelihoods during the COVID-19 era in Zimbabwe. African Initiated Churches which have a large women’s following became a portal of women’s livelihoods because the churches dealt with poverty affecting women and their lost entrepreneurial opportunities. At their sowes [worship places], the AICs responded by providing women with miteuro [ritualised prayers], which were performed with anointed waters and nhombo [anointed or ritualised pebbles] all of which helped in giving zambuko [deliverance or breakthrough]. The prayers were found to give hope and resilience, which became protective factors against the adversities associated with COVID-19.Contribution: This study’s contribution is centred on Practical Theology. It showed how the church has spiritually supported women’s livelihoods, consequently empowering them in the economic spheres of their lives through faith.
Parental Factors Associated to Functional Abdominal Pain Disorders in the Pediatric Age Group: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Taheri Ensieh , Nasri Peiman , Famori Fatemeh , Khademian Majid , Saneian Hosein , Arman Soroor , Kelishadi Roya , Jalali Arefe Khaksar
Published: February 2025

Background:

Functional abdominal pain disorder (FAPD) is one of the most common reasons for medical visits in child and adolescents. While exact mechanisms remain incompletely understood, it is believed that psychosocial and parental factors contribute to the pathophysiology of FAPDs. Some research suggests a dyadic and reciprocal relationship between children and their parents in this context.

Materials and Methods:

This is a case-control study that performed in pediatrics gastrointestinal clinics. All 4–16 years old children with abdominal pain, who were referred to pediatric clinics, were recruited consecutively. Individuals with abdominal pain complaint were classified as FAPD using Rome IV criteria. NEO Five-Factor Inventory was completed by all parents, both parents.

Results:

The mean and standard deviation age of the children in the case and control groups were 2.45 ± 8.10 and 3.04 ± 7.68, respectively, and there was no significant difference between the groups. However, the personality trait of neuroticism (P = 0.002) was significantly higher in the group of children with abdominal pain. The personality traits of extraversion and consciousness were more frequent in the control group than in the case group. Fathers’ authoritarian behaviors and the frequency of mothers who showed more obsessive behaviors and had more control over their nutrition and weight were more common in the group of children who had abdominal pain.

Conclusion:

Parent’s personality may be affected through different ways on FAPD in children. Diluting the adverse personality of parents alongside changing the relationship with their offspring is crucial to prevent or treatment of FAPD.
The Strategy of Robot-assisted Hysterectomy in Patients with Morbid Obesity
Authors: Mitsushita Junji , Banzai Chiaki , Matsumoto Akina , Motegi Emi , Imai Katsuya , Watanabe Shuhei , Murata Tomomi , Soda Masayuki
Published: February 2025

Robotic hysterectomy has emerged as a superior surgical approach for patients with obesity, providing significant benefits including reduced incidence of myocardial infarction, peripheral nerve injury, wound infections, and urinary tract infections. However, these unique considerations require careful attention when managing such cases. Therefore, this study aimed to propose several key strategies for achieving optimal outcomes, including maintaining a mild Trendelenburg position (12°), ensuring the patient’s secure positioning, avoiding the lithotomy position, considering a slightly higher pneumoperitoneum insufflation pressure (12 mmHg), and using a 30° endoscope for improved visualization rather than a 0° endoscope. We present three cases of stage IA atypical endometrial hyperplasia and carcinoma. All three patients underwent robotic hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, with body mass indices of 53.3, 43.8, and 43.7 kg/m2.
Improvement of Prognostic Outcome in Minimally Invasive Surgery for Stage I Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Omatsu Kohei , Lee Chyi-Long , Huang Kuan-Gen
Published: February 2025

Objectives:

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is a limited treatment option for early-stage ovarian cancer. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network® guidelines that salpingo-oophorectomy should be performed with every effort to keep an encapsulated mass intact during removal. We aimed to investigate whether, if tumor rupture was controlled, patients’ oncological outcomes for Stage I ovarian cancer would not be worse in MIS. An endobag was prepared and used to prevent the ovarian cancer cells from spilling into the peritoneal cavity. We report a recent 10-year clinical outcome of MIS for ovarian cancer by oncological endoscopists in gynecology.

Materials and Methods:

We retrospectively collected clinical data from an electric chart. Collective clinical data included age, body mass index (BMI), operative time (OT), estimated blood loss (EBL), intraoperative rupture (IR), duration of hospital stay (HS), time from the operation date to the first infusion of chemotherapy (TOFC), disease-free survival (DFS), and overall survival (OS) at 5 years. The data were statistically analyzed using EZR.

Results:

The median age, BMI, OT, EBL, IR, HS, TOFC, and DFS were 50 years, 23.9 kg/m2, 363 min, 100 mL, 65 (98%) patients, 7 days, 15 days, and 43.4 months, respectively. The OS was 98%. The data were consistent with those from the past 10 years, except for a tendency toward an increasing trend in the proportion of ruptured tumors during surgery.

Conclusion:

Tumor rupture within the prepared endobag during MIS did not affect the oncological outcomes of early-stage ovarian cancer.
Predictive Modelling of Low Birth Weight in Pregnancies: A Comparative Analysis of Logistic Regression and Decision Tree Approaches
Authors: Kumar Ravi , Bahuguna Abhinav , Goyal Palak , Mishra Richa , Khan Huma , Kumar Amit
Published: February 2025

Background:

Birth weight plays a vital role in an infant’s comprehensive development. Low birth weight (LBW) infants may go through several kinds of health complications in the early stages of their lives. This paper is an attempt to identify the predictors that significantly influence the likelihood of LBW through a model-based approach.

Methodology:

Data for this hospital based cross sectional study includes 130 pregnant women during the years 2022-2023. We have applied logistic regression and the decision tree method for predicting LBW in pregnancies. The performance of these predictive models has been assessed through receiving operating characteristic curve (ROC).

Results:

The findings revealed 38.5% prevalence of LBW in pregnancies. Factors such as age of mother, abortion, presence of co-morbidities, pregnancy complications, and gestational age have been identified as significant predictors (P < 0.05) of LBW through logistic regression. The area under the ROC curve (AUC=0.881) for logistic regression and decision tree (AUC=0.814) indicates that the fitted models have better discrimination ability.

Conclusions:

Logistic have better accuracy than decision tree model. Decision tree excels at capturing patterns but may overfit and hence should be used with caution. This study highlighted the need of targeted policy implementation on maternal and childhood care to reduce the risk of LBW.
Core Competencies for Dentists in Remote Japanese Islands: Bridging Professional and Community Roles
Authors: Oto Takayuki , Matsumoto Yuko , Yoshida Reiko , Taguchi Norihiro
Published: February 2025

Aim:

Ensuring equitable healthcare access remains a global challenge, particularly in remote and isolated regions, due to the shortage of healthcare professionals. While the demand for trained professionals has been widely acknowledged, the specific competencies required for dentists practicing in Japan’s remote islands remain unclear. This study aimed to identify these essential competencies to enhance dental care delivery in these regions and inform the development of targeted training programs and policies.

Materials and Methods:

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with four dentists practicing on remote islands between April and May 2017. Verbatim transcripts of the interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify core competency components. All participants were male dentists aged 50–60 years, each with over 20 years of experience serving these communities.

Results:

Six key competencies were identified: acquisition and appropriate application of diverse medical skills, self-directed learning and information gathering abilities, communication and collaboration skills, leadership and management capabilities, cultural sensitivity and community adaptation, and promotion of island vitality.

Conclusion:

The findings highlight the importance of integrating professional and community-oriented roles among dentists practicing in remote islands. Competencies such as cultural sensitivity, adaptability to community needs, and contributions to the vitality of island life underscore the multifaceted skills required in these unique settings. These insights emphasize the need for specialized training programs tailored to equip dentists with the skills necessary to effectively serve in remote and isolated regions.
Development and Characterization of Biocompatible Faropenem-Coated Absorbable Monofilament Suture
Authors: Janagarathinam Pavithran , Rajasekar Arvina
Published: February 2025

Background:

Surgical site infections (SSIs) continue to pose a substantial challenge in healthcare, often linked to bacterial colonization of suture materials. While triclosan-coated sutures are widely used, emerging antibiotic resistance and cytotoxicity necessitate alternatives. Faropenem, a novel β-lactam antibiotic with a broad antibacterial spectrum, offers potential as an antimicrobial suture coating. This study evaluated the mechanical and antimicrobial properties of faropenem-coated absorbable monofilament sutures.

Aim:

To assess the tensile strength, drug release, and antibacterial efficacy of faropenem-coated sutures and explore their clinical applicability.

Materials and Methods:

Faropenem-coated sutures were prepared using a dip-coating method with a 1:1 solution of 1% gelatin and hyaluronic acid. Characterization included tensile strength testing (Instron E 3000), drug degradation and release profile analysis, and antibacterial activity assessment against Streptococcus mutans via the zone of inhibition assay. Independent t-tests and one-way analysis of variance were applied for statistical comparisons, with significance set at P < 0.05.

Results:

The faropenem coating did not compromise tensile strength, with no significant differences observed between coated (910.33 ± 54.12 MPa) and uncoated sutures (913.03 ± 52.42 MPa, P > 0.05). Drug degradation was progressive, with 37% degradation over seven days. A controlled drug release profile was observed, with an initial burst (24.86 ± 1.5 µg/mL at 6 h) followed by stable release (28.19 ± 1.8 µg/mL at 48 h). Antibacterial activity was significantly enhanced in coated sutures (zone of inhibition: 21.33 ± 0.58 mm) compared to uncoated sutures (0 mm, P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Faropenem-coated sutures demonstrated robust tensile strength, sustained drug release, and significant antimicrobial efficacy against S. mutans. Clinically, these findings suggest the potential for reducing SSIs, particularly in oral and maxillofacial surgeries, by delivering localized antimicrobial therapy while maintaining mechanical integrity. However, limitations include the single microbial strain tested and the in vitro nature of this study. Future work should explore broader antimicrobial efficacy, in vivo validation, and scalability to ensure clinical translation. These sutures may enhance patient outcomes, minimize oral medication dependency, and reduce healthcare costs associated with SSIs.
Evaluation of Hardness and Tensile Strength of Recasting of Base Metal Alloy: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Altaie Shurooq Falih , Mansoor Nidhal Sahib , Zwyyer Rasha Mohammed , Ahmed Enas Shihab
Published: February 2025

Background:

Recasting base metal alloys offers economic and environmental benefits but raises concerns about mechanical property deterioration. Cobalt–chromium (Co–Cr) alloys, widely used in dentistry, require evaluation of their tensile strength and Vickers microhardness when recast with different proportions of recycled alloy.

Aim:

To evaluate the impact of recasting on the tensile strength and Vickers microhardness of Co–Cr alloys with varying proportions of recycled material.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 60 Co–Cr divided into three groups: group 1 (100% new alloy), group 2 (80% new + 20% reused alloy), and group 3 (60% new + 40% reused alloy). A centrifugal induction casting machine was used to cast all samples. Tensile strength was measured using a universal testing machine, whereas Vickers microhardness was determined using a digital microhardness tester [Vickers hardness number (VHN)]. Tukey’s honest significant difference test analyzed differences among groups, with significance set at a P value of <0.05.

Results:

The control group (100% new alloy) showed significantly higher Vickers microhardness (449 ± 10.92 VHN) compared with group 2 (395.01 ± 11.51 VHN) and group 3 (381.34 ± 15.59 VHN) (P < 0.001). There was no significant difference in tensile strength among groups (P > 0.05): mean values were 1019.5 ± 61.02 MPa (group 1), 1086.3 ± 95.52 MPa (group 2), and 1048.6 ± 162.51 MPa (group 3).

Conclusion:

Recasting Co–Cr alloy with up to 40% recycled material does not compromise tensile strength but significantly reduces Vickers microhardness. Clinically, this indicates that recasting is a viable option when alloy hardness is not critical, such as in low-stress applications. Limitations include the absence of long-term performance and biocompatibility evaluations. Future research should explore multiple recasting cycles, corrosion resistance, and biological effects using advanced characterization techniques like scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction.
Comparison and Evaluation of Quality and Survival of Indirect Composite Resin and Ceramic in Fixed Restorations: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Narde Joshua , Pandurangan Kiran Kumar , Venugopalan Suresh , Ahmed Nabeel
Published: February 2025

Aim:

The following study aims to systematically review the quality and survival of indirect composite resin and ceramic in fixed restorations.

Materials and Methods:

Only clinical studies conducted were assessed, and the success and survival of the restorations were noted. The systematic review was registered at the National Institute of Health Research PROSPERO, the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews. The registration number is CRD42017079002. PubMed, Scopus, LILAC, Google Scholar, and Cochrane databases were searched and filtered. The most eligible and relevant studies were selected and tabulated based on their reasons for the selection. The patient/population, intervention, comparison, and outcomes strategy were used to decide the structured question. Population—Fixed restorations, Intervention—Indirect composite resin restorations, Comparison—All-ceramic or metal-ceramic restorations, and Outcome—Quality and survival. Hence the complete structured question of this review was: “In patients with fixed restorations, does the use of indirect composite resin restorations exhibit the same outcomes as all ceramic or metal-ceramic restorations?” A total of 250 articles were shortlisted from the databases. After the removal of the duplicates and automation screening, 43 articles remained. From these articles, 28 were excluded and 15 articles were sought for retrieval. After a full-text reading of these articles, four were chosen for the systematic review.

Results:

The meta-analysis included four studies, which compared survival rates of indirect composite resin restoration and ceramic restoration. The forest plot was produced according to the follow-up period. The pooled survival rate at 6 months showed no significant difference in the risk ratio between indirect composite resin and ceramic restoration (P = 0.23). Survival rates at 12, 18, 24, and 36 months showed a significant difference in the risk ratio favoring ceramic restoration with less risk (P = 0.007, 0.004, 0.002, and 0.002) having low to moderate heterogeneity (I
2 = 0%, 25%, 33%, and 33%, respectively). There is no significant difference in the risk ratio at 42 and 120 months (P = 0.20 and 0.32).

Conclusions:

From the level of evidence that is, available at our disposal, it could be said that ceramic restorations could be still considered as the restoration of choice in long-term cases. Indirect composite restorations could be used over a shorter period and this could make a difference.
Comparative evaluation of serum heat shock protein 60 in chronic periodontitis patients with and without coronary heart disease - A case–control study
Authors: Asok Anjhana , Bhandary Rahul , Shetty Mamatha Shekar , Ramesh Amitha , Venugopalan Geethu , Sreeja S Sai
Published: February 2025

Background:

Heat shock proteins (HSPs) are a group of stress proteins that participate in physiological processes such as cellular folding, assembly, translocation of polypeptides across membranes, and protein repair after cell damage. HSP60 has been implicated in the pathogenesis of both chronic periodontitis (CP) and coronary heart disease (CHD).

Aim:

The aim was to assess the possible link between CP and CHD by estimating and comparing the serum HSP60 levels in patients with CP with and without CHD.

Settings and Design:

Ninety patients in the age group of 30–60 years were involved in this study. The patients were categorized as CP (control group) and CP with CHD (case group).

Materials and Methods:

Gingival index (GI) and periodontal parameters such as probing pocket depth and clinical attachment levels were documented. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to determine the HSP60 levels in serum samples obtained from the patients.

Statistical Analysis:

Results were statistically analyzed using the SPSS version 16.0 software to estimate the mean and standard deviation using independent t-test and Mann–Whitney U-test.

Results:

The findings of the research indicated that patients with CP with CHD exhibited elevated serum HSP60 levels compared to CP without CHD (P < 0.05). In addition, a statistically significant rise in GI was noted in the case group. However, the periodontal measurements did not reveal any significant differences.

Conclusion:

As a result, HSP60 levels were observed to be elevated in the case group compared to the control group. Consequently, there is a connection between periodontal disease and CHD that contributes to the overall inflammatory burden.
Resective and regenerative periodontal therapy for maxillary Class II furcation defect: A case report with 24-month follow-up
Authors: Braz Pierre , Viana Karolina Skarlet Silva , Silveira Milena Mageski Ferreira , Lima Rafael Paschoal Esteves
Published: February 2025

Periodontal treatment of teeth with furcation defects is challenging due to the complex anatomy of the area. Resective techniques, such as root resection, may be effective in managing teeth with this defect if appropriately indicated and can lead to satisfactory survival rates associated with a favorable prognosis. This report describes the treatment of a Class II furcation defect in an upper molar using root resection combined with regenerative procedures. The regenerative procedure involved the use of a lyophilized bone graft combined with the use of a collagen membrane and a connective tissue graft. The 24-month follow-up demonstrated the success of the therapy, with a gain in clinical attachment level, a reduction in probing pocket depth, and a tomographic image showing the formation of new lamina dura. A healthy and stable periodontium can be achieved through the correct application of more conservative techniques aimed at preserving the dental element.
Effect of exposure to the carcinogen 50 ppm 4-nitroquinoline 1-oxide on alveolar bone loss
Authors: Ribas Marcelo Ekman , Spuldaro Tobias Rauber , Oballe Harry Juan Rivera , Cavagni Juliano , Gaio Eduardo José , Lamers Marcelo Lazzaron , Muniz Francisco Wilker Mustafa Gomes , Rösing Cassiano Kuchenbecker
Published: February 2025

Background:

The objective of this study was to analyze the effect of exposure to the carcinogen 4-nitroquinoline 1-oxide (4NQO), with or without experimental periodontitis (EP), on alveolar bone loss (ABL) in rats.

Materials and Methods:

Male Wistar rats (n = 84) were divided into Group 1: no EP and no exposure to 4NQO; Group 2: exposure to 4NQO (50 ppm) only; Group 3: EP only; and Group 4: after 20 weeks of exposure to 4NQO (50 ppm), EP was induced by placing a silk ligature on the upper right maxillary second molar for 15 days. Macroscopic analysis of the tongue and morphometric analysis of ABL were performed. Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney U tests were used, and a significance level of P < 0.05 was adopted.

Results:

All animals exposed to 4NQO presented macroscopic lesions on the tongue. When considering the side with EP, no statistically significant difference was demonstrated between Groups 3 (median: 0.76; intervals interquartile [IQ]: 0.42–0.45) and 4 (median: 0.78; IQ: 0.70–0.80). In the side without EP, Group 4 (median: 0.51 mm; IQ: 0.45–0.70) presented significantly higher ABL compared to Group 1 (median: 0.41 mm; IQ: 0.38–0.43). Group 3 (median: 0.44; IQ: 0.41–0.47) showed no significant difference when compared to Groups 1 (median: 0.41; IQ: 0.38–0.43) and 2 (median: 0.46; IQ: 0.41–0.54).

Conclusions:

It was concluded that higher ABL occurred in the presence of a carcinogen. However, the combination of both 4NQO and EP did not promote higher ABL.
Bronchodilator reversibility and eosinophilic biomarkers in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients
Authors: Ameet H , Rai Deependra K. , Karmakar Saurabh , Thakur Somesh , Mahto Mala , Sharma Priya , Yadav Rajesh , Gupta Vatsal
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives:

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is now one of the top three causes of death worldwide. Recently, increased focus has been on COPD patients displaying eosinophilic inflammation and asthma-like features of bronchial hyperreactivity and bronchodilator responsiveness. The objective of the study was to measure the proportion of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients with bronchodilator reversibility and to compare the eosinophilic biomarkers between the bronchodilator non-reversible and reversible groups.

Materials and Methods:

This hospital-based cross-sectional study included COPD patients who visited the Pulmonary Medicine OPD at the All-India Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna. Spirometry and eosinophilic biomarkers such as blood eosinophil, sputum eosinophil, FeNO, and serum IL-5 were measured. All statistical calculations were conducted using SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Science 22 version (SPSS, Chicago, IL, United States).

Results:

A total of 160 COPD patients were included in the study. The mean age of the study population was 61 (±10) years. Males (68.1%) and non-smokers (55%) respectively were predominant. The prevalence of bronchodilator reversibility was found to be 32%. There was a significant difference in eosinophil biomarker levels, of sputum eosinophil count, peripheral eosinophil count, and FeNO levels between the bronchodilator non-reversible and bronchodilator reversible groups. Serum IL-5 levels were higher and more significant in GOLD group D patients.

Conclusion:

Eosinophils are crucial to the underlying inflammatory response in this subset of COPD patients, as evidenced by the observation that eosinophil biomarkers were significantly higher in COPD patients with bronchodilator reversibility. Also, sputum eosinophil levels had a better correlation in comparison to peripheral eosinophil level in this subset.
Clinical and genetic profiles of paediatric patients with cystic fibrosis from Western India
Authors: Chandane Parmarth , Chauhan Avantika , Bhosale Alpa , Balaji Mounnish , Parekh Nidhi
Published: February 2025

Background:

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder caused by genetic variant in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator (CFTR) gene that affects around 89,000 people worldwide. Loss of the CFTR chloride channel due to pathogenic variants in the CFTR gene causes obstruction in the exocrine pancreas gland and reduced lung function.

Objective:

To determine the genotype and phenotype of patients with CF from western India.

Materials and Methods:

This was a single-center retrospective cross-sectional study conducted in a tertiary care super speciality paediatric hospital of Mumbai, India, comprising patients aged 0 to 18 years visiting a paediatric pulmonology clinic with suspected or confirmed diagnosis of CF.

Results:

The mean (SD) age of onset of symptoms was 6.8 (10.2) months and the mean (SD) age at diagnosis was 32.5 (50.5) months. The two most common genetic variants found in our patients were c. 1521_1523delCTT (F508del) (n = 21) and c.1367T>C (V456A) (n = 10). There were nine novel genetic variants identified that have not been reported so far. The mean (SD) age of onset of symptoms was 6.8 (10.2) months and mean (SD) age at diagnosis was 32.5 (50.5) months. The most common presenting features were recurrent respiratory infections (83%), malabsorption (79%), and failure to thrive (79%). Sweat chloride testing was conducted to establish the CFTR gene dysfunction and was positive in 79% (46/58) of patients and intermediate in 15% (n = 9/58) of patients. The two most common genetic variants found in our group of patients were c. 1521_1523delCTT (F508del) (n = 21) and c.1367T>C (V456A) (n = 10). There were nine novel genetic variants identified that have not been reported so far.

Conclusion:

This study adds to the knowledge of genetic diversity in the pathogenic CFTR gene variants causing CF and highlights the importance of sequencing the entire CFTR gene as regional variations in the gene have been documented in India.
Newer research transforming 24-month treatment of MDR/XDR-TB TO 6 months
Authors: Jain Nitin , Sharma Divyam , Jain Nirmal Kumar
Published: February 2025

Tuberculosis (TB) is a global threat to public health and remains the second leading infectious cause of death from a single infectious agent in 2022. According to the global tuberculosis report 2023, an estimated 10.6 million people developed TB in 2022 and 1.3 million died from the disease. About 4,10,000 new cases of multidrug-resistant/rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis (MDR/RR-TB) emerged in 2022. This huge burden has been recognised by World Health Organisation (WHO) by launching the End-TB strategy. The United Nations (UN) is committed to end TB epidemic globally by the year 2030; the aim is to reduce TB incidence by 80% and TB deaths by 90%. To eliminate the catastrophic cost, the Prime Minister of India has announced an ambitious plan to eliminate the TB in India by 2025, 5 years ahead of UN targets by ensuring quality health care and advanced treatment. Responding to the challenge of TB and drug-resistant tuberculosis, WHO is regularly issuing evidence-based guidelines using the International Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach to assessment of new scientific evidence. Major advances have been reported in newer drugs and impact making research for new regimens in recent years. National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme has adopted effective interventions and technologies for diagnosis, treatment, and care of TB giving a new hope for elimination of TB. The present article reviews the new impact making research transforming traditional 18 to 24 months treatment of MDR/XDR TB to 6 months treatment.