bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do Liquidity and Capital Structure Predict Firms’ Financial Sustainability? A Panel Data Analysis on Quoted Non-Financial Establishments in Ghana
Authors: Wu Ning , Zhao Jingyi , Musah Mohammed , Ma Zhiqiang , Zhang Lijuan , Zhou Yutong , Su Yongzheng , Agyemang Joseph Kwasi , Asiamah Juliana Anyei , Cao Siqi , Yao Linnan , Li Kaodui
Published: January 2023

This study examined the connection between liquidity, capital structure, and the financial sustainability of 28 quoted non-financial establishments in Ghana. Panel data for the period from 2008 to 2019 was used for the analysis. In the study, liquidity was proxied by the current ratio, while the debt ratio was used as a surrogate of capital structure. Additionally, return on equity (ROE) was employed as a measure of sustainability. This indicator was used because of its flexibility as it can be applied to any line of business or product. From the results, the studied panel was cross-sectionally independent. Furthermore, the series were first differenced stationary and cointegrated in the long-run. The elasticities of the predictors were determined through the generalized method of moments (GMM) estimator, and from the results, liquidity proxied by the current ratio improved the entities’ financial sustainability. In addition, capital structure surrogated by the debt ratio promoted the financial sustainability of the establishments. Moreover, the interaction between capital structure and liquidity advanced the corporates’ financial sustainability. Size, growth, and operational efficiency were significantly positive determinants of the sustainability of firms, but asset tangibility had a trivial effect on the entities’ sustainability. On the causal relations among the variables, there was a bilateral connection amidst current ratio and return on equity; between cash flow ratio and return on equity; between debt ratio and return on equity; between size and return on equity; between operational efficiency and return on equity. Additionally, a single-headed causality moving from growth to return on equity was uncovered. Finally, there was no causal liaison amidst tangibility and return on equity. Based on the findings, it was recommended, amongst other suggestions, that an optimal liquidity level that is capable of supplying the firms with sufficient liquid resources should be maintained. Furthermore, the firms should use more internal funds to back their activities because that choice is safer than the alternatives. The corporates should also prefer that option because it has no associated costs that could adversely impact their sustainability.
Investigation of Using Crushed Glass Waste as Filler Replacement in Hot Asphalt Mixtures
Authors: Barraj Firas , Mahfouz Sarah , Kassem Hussein , Khatib Jamal , Goulias Dimitrios , Elkordi Adel
Published: January 2023

Due to the depletion of natural aggregates and high maintenance cost of highway systems, developing sustainable asphalt concrete (AC) mixes that use waste materials instead of virgin raw materials is necessary. A large amount of waste glass material is globally generated per year that could be beneficial to sustain the asphalt industry. In this context, the present paper evaluates the properties and performance of AC mixtures that utilize crushed waste glass as a replacement material of filler aggregates. Three AC mixes with percentages of filler replacement in the range from 0%, 25%, to 50% were fabricated. Complex modulus testing was performed to evaluate the dynamic modulus |E*| and phase angle δ over a range of temperatures and loading frequencies. In addition, the flow number (FN) test was conducted to assess the rutting potential of the mixtures. The results showed that the mix containing 25% of crushed glass is likely to better resist fatigue cracking; however, the inclusion of glass in the AC reduced the rutting resistance compared to conventional hot mix asphalt (HMA). Finally, the results of the flow number test and the simple performance indicators were compared and used to rank the mechanical performance of the various mixtures.
Biological Nitrogen Fixation of Cowpea in a No-Till Intercrop under Contrasting Rainfed Agro-Ecological Environments
Authors: Mogale Elizabeth Tlou , Ayisi Kwabena Kingsley , Munjonji Lawrence , Kifle Yehenew Getachew
Published: January 2023

Nitrogen (N) availability under no-till intercropping systems has not been widely investigated in diverse agro-ecological regions in Limpopo Province. Two seasons of rainfed experiments were conducted during 2018/19 and 2020/21 in a 2 × 4 × 2 factorial design to measure the biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) ability of cowpea in an intercropping system with four grain sorghum cultivars at two test locations, Ofcolaco and Syferkuil, of Limpopo Province using the natural abundance technique. The cowpea nitrogen isotope composition (δ 15N‰) ranged from 0.2 ‰ to 4‰ at Ofcolaco, whereas at Syferkuil, the range was 2 ‰ to 7 ‰. The N derived from air (Ndfa) was from 35% to 92% at Ofcolaco and 4% to 70% at Syferkuil during the two cropping seasons. The amount of N2 fixed across locations and seasons ranged from 1 kg ha−1 to 71 kg ha−1. In the intercropping system, cowpea fixed more N at higher densities compared with lower densities at the two experimental sites. Biomass was significantly correlated with N accumulated by cowpea (r2 > 0.9) at all locations and across seasons. N accumulated in sole cultures was 30% more at Ofcolaco and 36% more at Syferkuil compared with binary cultures. Furthermore, the treatment combination, cowpea density, as well as cropping system, significantly affected N fixation and accumulation. For high productivity, cowpea intercrop with grain sorghum cultivar Enforcer is recommended, as both crops complemented each other when intercropped. The research should investigate further the root distribution and biomass production of sorghum and cowpea, as well as their impact on N intake.
Assessment of Current and Future Land Use and Land Cover in the Oueme Basin for Hydrological Studies
Authors: Bodjrènou René , Comandan Françoise , Danso Derrick Kwadwo
Published: January 2023

The modification of land use is a crucial factor in the dysfunction of ecosystems. It greatly influences the hydrological cycle of basins. This study focused on the Oueme basin, which represents almost half of the total area of Benin, and aimed to describe the current and future evolution of its land cover using the maps of the Land Use Land Cover Dynamics project (1975, 2000, and 2013). A temporal analysis of the surface states was performed with QGIS, and the potential land cover in 2025, 2050, and 2085 was estimated using the Markov chain algorithm in the IDRISI software. The results showed that the Oueme basin was predominantly savanna (77.70% in 1975, 66.29% in 2000, and 57.10% in 2013). Forest areas, which represented the second class in 1975 with a total proportion of 13.34%, gradually decreased to 8.66% and 6.89%, respectively, in 2000 and 2013. Conversely, cultivated areas had more than tripled in 2000 and quadrupled in 2013. Residential areas increased rapidly in the southern part of the basin, with an acceleration in the recent period (6% between 2000 and 2013, against 2% between 1975 and 2000). This probably led to the lower stability rate in this zone (56%) compared to Oueme upper (74%). The recent period was more affected by changes in the surface conditions, and these changes are likely to be amplified in the future (probable total disappearance of forested areas by 2085). We recommend clarifying the impacts that each land use category generates/will generate on the hydrological cycle of this basin.
Population Decline and Urban Transformation by Tourism Gentrification in Kyoto City
Authors: Tanaka Riku , Kato Haruka , Matsushita Daisuke
Published: January 2023

In recent years, tourist cities worldwide have experienced rapid tourism gentrification, which was caused by the spread of P2P accommodation-matching digital platforms. The research problem is set as follows: whether tourism gentrification caused a population decline in the historical center area of tourist cities. Therefore, this study aims to clarify the causal statistical relationship between population decline and tourism gentrification, focusing on urban transformation by accommodation. As a case, this study analyzes Kyoto City, a world-class tourist city. In summary, we conclude that tourism gentrification caused population decline through displacement in the historical center of Kyoto City. On the other hand, it was found that population decline occurred from factors other than tourism gentrification in the outside area of Kyoto City. The academic contribution is to clarify the effect of population decline on the cause of urban transformation through time precedence with statistical correlation. For tourist cities where the population is declining, the distinction between cause and effect is critical for policymaking toward sustainable tourism where the population is declining. The practical implication is the need for urban planning against tourism gentrification toward sustainability tourism in the historical center of Kyoto City.
Frost Resistance and Shrinkage Characteristics of Soil Stabilized by Carbide Slag and Coal Gangue Powder
Authors: Zhao Quanman , Liu Jianshu , Wu Li , Lu Xiaojin , Li Hao , Hu Wenjun , Zhang Yongsheng , Kong Xianghui , Jing Shuo
Published: January 2023

With the increase of expressway construction in seasonal frozen soil region, the freeze-thaw problem of subgrade soil has attracted more and more attention. In addition, the comprehensive utilization of industrial solid waste has become an important measure to build a resource-saving and environment-friendly society. In order to improve the frost resistance of subgrade soil and realize the resource utilization of industrial solid waste, carbide slag (CS) and coal gangue powder (CG) were applied to the subgrade soil. The unconfined compressive strength (UCS) test, freeze-thaw cycle test, dry shrinkage test, temperature shrinkage test and scanning electron microscope (SEM) test were carried out on CS-CG stabilized soil with a ratio of CS:CG = 70:30 and dosages of 5%, 10% and 15%. The freeze-thaw cycle degradation model of CS-CG stabilized soil was constructed to show the freeze-thaw deterioration mechanism after the mechanical properties, pore structure, and durability characteristics of the stabilized soil were examined. The results showed that the CS-CG stabilized soil had good frost resistance. After 6 freeze-thaw cycles, the UCS at 7d and 28 d was 2.86 MPa and 3.79 MPa, respectively, which were 22.6% and 35.5% lower than in samples that underwent no freeze-thaw action. The CS-CG stabilized soil had good crack resistance, slightly better dry shrinkage strain than lime stabilized soil, and excellent temperature shrinkage performance. With the increase of CS-CG dosage, the hydration products increased continuously. After freeze-thaw cycles, however, large pores and cracks gradually appeared in the stabilized soil, which led to an increase of porosity and pore diameter, and a decrease of pore abundance. Due to the influence of hydration degree, the porosity change at 7 d was less than that at 28 d. There was a f(n)/f0=βexp−λΔh relationship between UCS residual ratio and porosity variation of the CS-CG stabilized soil, and it had a good correlation. The CS-CG stabilized soil had good frost resistance and shrinkage characteristics, and could replace traditional cementitious materials such as Portland cement (PC) and lime for subgrade soil improvement in regions with seasonal frozen soil. Future research needs to focus on the performance regulation of CS-CG stabilized soil, which can make it more widely used.
Relative Importance of Sustainable Development Goals by Q-Sort Evaluation
Authors: Berényi László
Published: January 2023

The 17 Sustainable Development Goals offer a comprehensive framework for extensive development actions. The purpose of this study is to explore the patterns of perception of the relative importance of the goals. Although the interrelations between the diversified goals provide a comprehensive approach for decision-makers, the patterns may support effective strategies in the field. The study used a voluntary online survey among 123 business students by the Q-sort ranking method. The analysis identified three characteristic patterns for the relative importance of the goals: (1) global thinkers who prioritize planet-related goals; (2) pathfinders; and (3) human-centric students who prioritize people-related goals. The preference orders suggest the goals that can best improve the acceptance of sustainability actions. Climate change and water are the most relevant calling words for environmental actions, while health, hunger, and poverty are the equivalents for social actions. Collaboration by a partnership is not considered to be among the essential items, but the position of education is encouraging. Understanding the motivations of the respondents can be used for shaping attitudes in line with the policy expectations; moreover, the factor membership can be used as a grouping factor for a broader survey. The resultant factor characteristics can be used as grouping factors for broader surveys aimed at understanding the motivations behind environmentally conscious behavior.
Botulinum Toxin A Injection for Autonomic Dysreflexia—Detrusor Injection or Urethral Sphincter Injection?
Authors: Chow Po-Ming , Kuo Hann-Chorng
Published: January 2023

Spinal cord injuries (SCI) have a profound impact on autonomic systems, sometimes resulting in multi-organ dysfunction, including of the neurogenic bladder. Autonomic dysreflexia (AD) is commonly seen in patients with SCI above T6 when the injured cord develops a deregulated sympathetic reflex, which can be induced by bladder sensation and can cause hypertensive crisis. While intravesical injection of botulinum toxin A (Botox) is a standard therapy for neurogenic detrusor overactivity, the role of Botox for AD has rarely been described. This study reviewed the medical records of SCI patients who reported AD and received either detrusor or urethral sphincter injection with Botox. The primary endpoint is the subjective improvement of AD. The secondary endpoint is a change in videourodynamic parameters before and after Botox injection. A total of 200 patients were enrolled for analysis. There were 125 (62.5%) patients in the detrusor injection group, and 75 (37.5%) in the urethral sphincter injection group. There were 79 (63.2%) patients in the detrusor injection group and 43 (57.3%) in the urethral sphincter injection group reporting moderate or marked improvement. Detrusor injection leads to a greater improvement in AD, probably because of decreased detrusor pressure and increased compliance after Botox injection. Urethral sphincter injection appears to have a modest effect on AD, despite general improvements in the voiding parameters of videourodynamic study.
Putative Mitoviruses without In-Frame UGA(W) Codons: Evolutionary Implications
Authors: Jacquat Andrés Gustavo , Theumer Martín Gustavo , Dambolena José Sebastián
Published: January 2023

Mitoviruses are small vertically transmitted RNA viruses found in fungi, plants and animals. Taxonomically, a total of 105 species and 4 genera have been formally recognized by ICTV, and recently, 18 new putative species have been included in a new proposed genus. Transcriptomic and metatranscriptomic studies are a major source of countless new virus-like sequences that are continually being added to open databases and these may be good sources for identifying new putative mitoviruses. The search for mitovirus-like sequences in the NCBI databases resulted in the discovery of more than one hundred new putative mitoviruses, with important implications for taxonomy and also for the evolutionary scenario. Here, we propose the inclusion of four new putative members to the genus Kvaramitovirus, and the existence of a new large basally divergent lineage composed of 144 members that lack internal UGA codons (subfamily “Arkeomitovirinae”), a feature not shared by the vast majority of mitoviruses. Finally, a taxonomic categorization proposal and a detailed description of the evolutionary history of mitoviruses were carried out. This in silico study supports the hypothesis of the existence of a basally divergent lineage that could have had an impact on the early evolutionary history of mitoviruses.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on HPV Vaccinations in Switzerland and Greece: Road to Recovery
Authors: Gountas Ilias , Favre-Bulle Andrea , Saxena Kunal , Wilcock Jessica , Collings Hannah , Salomonsson Stina , Skroumpelos Anastasios , Sabale Ugne
Published: January 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant disruptions to healthcare, including reduced administration of routinely recommended HPV vaccines in a number of European countries. Because the extent and trends of accumulated vaccine dose deficits may vary by country, decision-makers need country-specific information regarding vaccine deficits to plan effective catch-up initiatives. To address this knowledge gap in Switzerland and Greece, this study used a previously published COVID-19 recovery calculator and historical vaccine sales data to quantify the cumulative number of missed doses and the catch-up rate required to clear the deficit in Switzerland and Greece. The resultant cumulative deficit in HPV doses for Switzerland and Greece were 24.4% and 21.7%, respectively, of the total number of doses disseminated in 2019. To clear the dose deficit by December 2025, monthly vaccination rates must be increased by 6.3% and 6.0% compared to 2019 rates in Switzerland and Greece, respectively. This study demonstrates that administration rates of routine HPV vaccines decreased significantly among Swiss and Greek adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic and that a sustained increase in vaccination rates is necessary to recover the HPV dose deficits identified and to prevent long-term public health consequences.
Effectiveness of Live Attenuated Varicella-Zoster Vaccine in Adults Older than 50 Years in Japan: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Matsumoto Kazuhiro , Ohfuji Satoko , Inohara Kana , Akechi Masateru , Kumashiro Hiroko , Ishibashi Motoki , Irie Shin , Hirota Yoshio
Published: January 2023

Background: In Japan, freeze-dried live attenuated varicella-zoster vaccine BIKEN is available for adults aged ≥50 years to prevent herpes zoster (HZ). A prospective cohort study of 1200 healthy adults and 300 patients with underlying illness confirmed vaccine safety between 2016 and 2017. However, evidence of vaccine effectiveness (VE) is limited. Methods: VE against HZ and postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) was evaluated in the vaccinated cohort of the previous safety study in a follow-up study between 2021 and 2022 and compared with unvaccinated family members. Self-administered questionnaires determined retrospective experiences of HZ and PHN diagnosis. Logistic regression estimated the VE by calculating the outcome odds ratio (OR) in vaccinated vs. unvaccinated groups: VE = (1 − OR) × 100(%). Results: Overall, 1098 vaccinated and 518 unvaccinated subjects were analysed. Between 2016 and 2022, 26 vaccinated (2.4%) and 22 unvaccinated (4.2%) subjects reported HZ diagnosis, and 3 vaccinated (0.3%) and 2 unvaccinated (0.4%) subjects reported PHN. Adjusted VE against a clinical diagnosis was 41% for HZ [−6% to 67%], with marginal significance, and 16% [−408% to 86%] for PHN. Stratification by age, sex, or comorbidities had an adjusted VE against HZ of ~40%, which was similar between strata. Conclusion: Freeze-dried live attenuated varicella-zoster vaccine reduces the risk of HZ regardless of age, sex, or comorbidities.
Divergent Cytokine and Chemokine Responses at Early Acute Simian Immunodeficiency Virus Infection Correlated with Virus Replication and CD4 T Cell Loss in a Rhesus Macaque Model
Authors: Boby Nongthombam , Srivastav Apurv , Srivastav Sudesh K. , Pahar Bapi
Published: January 2023

Cytokine and chemokine levels remain one of the significant predictive factors of HIV pathogenesis and disease outcome. Understanding the impact of cytokines and chemokines during early acute infection will help to recognize critical changes during HIV pathogenesis and might assist in establishing improved HIV treatment and prevention methods. Sixty-one cytokines and chemokines were evaluated in the plasma of an SIV-infected rhesus macaque model. A substantial change in 11 cytokines/growth factors and 9 chemokines were observed during acute infection. Almost all the cytokines/chemokines were below the baseline values for an initial couple of days of infection. We detected six important cytokines/chemokines, such as IL-18, IP-10, FLT3L, MCP-1, MCP-2, and MIP-3β, that can be used as biomarkers to predict the peripheral CD4+ T cell loss and increased viral replication during the acute SIV/HIV infection. Hence, regulating IL-18, IP-10, FLT3L, MCP-1, MCP-2, and MIP-3β expression might provide an antiviral response to combat acute SIV/HIV infection.
Ecosystem Service Value Evaluation of Saline—Alkali Land Development in the Yellow River Delta—The Example of the Huanghe Island
Authors: Liu Jian , Chen Xue , Chen Weifeng , Zhang Yong , Wang Ailing , Zheng Yanfeng
Published: January 2023

Saline–alkali land is an important land resource with high development potential and an important ecological product with high potential ecosystem service value (ESV). It is of great significance for rational development and protection of saline–alkali land resources to carry out research on the evaluation methods of the ESV of saline–alkali land and to scientifically quantify the ESV of saline–alkali land development. Taking typical saline–alkali land in the Yellow River Delta on the Huanghe Island of China as an example, this research constructed an ESV evaluation index system from the perspective of functional value containing three first-level indicators such as economic value, four second-level indicators such as supply service, and eight lowest-level indicators such as food production. It also considered production and operation costs and evaluated the ESV of the Huanghe Island using the ecological economics method. The results showed that the ESV of the Huanghe Island is CNY 133.586 million, and the unit area value is 50,200 CNY/hm2, which is a relatively high value. Among them, the supply service value was the highest, accounting for more than half. In recent years, the development of the Huanghe Island has produced high supply and service value, but due to weak background conditions and low vegetation coverage, regulation and support service values are relatively low, the cultural service value is still to be explored, and there is great potential for ecological and social value. This research can provide references for scientific evaluation of the ESV of saline–alkali land and provide a basis for rational development and utilization of the Huanghe Island.
A Comprehensive Review of the Latest Advancements in Controlling Arsenic Contaminants in Groundwater
Authors: Dilpazeer Fariha , Munir Mamoona , Baloch Muhammad , Shafiq Iqrash , Iqbal Javeeria , Saeed Muhammad , Abbas Muhammad , Shafique Sumeer , Aziz Kosar , Mustafa Ahmad , Mahboob Iqra
Published: January 2023

Water contaminated with arsenic is a worldwide problem. This review presents the arsenic contamination in groundwater, its sources, and possible health risk to humans. Groundwater pollution is the most common route of inorganic arsenic exposure in humans. Arsenic concentrations in different countries were analyzed and projected on a map. Because arsenic is widely spread throughout the Earth’s crust, it is present in trace amounts in practically all waterways. Harmful levels of this toxin have been identified in drinking water in some regions. For drinking purposes, the majority of people use groundwater; excess arsenic levels in groundwater have been linked to a variety of negative health impacts on people. Arsenic exposure is the world’s leading environmental cause of cancer. The main aim of this review is to summarize the effective technologies to remove arsenic from drinking water, such as ion exchange, coagulation/flocculation, and membrane technologies like ultra-filtration and electrodialysis, helping to deal with the adverse effects caused by arsenic exposure. All these technologies present different advantages and disadvantages. Electrocoagulation, adsorption, and phytoremediation are the most efficient and cost-effective technologies. The removal efficiencies of arsenic using these technologies and prospects were also included.
Synthesis of Mesoporous Ru-ZnO@g-C3N4 Nanoparticles and Their Photocatalytic Activity for Methylene Blue Degradation
Authors: Albadri Abuzar E. A. E. , Aissa Mohamed Ali Ben , Modwi Abueliz , Saleh Sayed M.
Published: January 2023

Cleaning contaminated water under light with a novel type of heterogeneous photocatalysts is regarded as a critical method for wastewater resolution. Thus, a unique mesoporous Ru-ZnO@g-C3N4 nanocomposite with an increased surface area was synthesized through the ultrasonic technique in the presence of methanol. The X-ray diffraction pattern efficiently validated the crystal structure of the Ru-ZnO hybrid and allowed it to be integrated into the g-C3N4 structure. TEM imaging revealed the Ru-ZnO nanocomposite as spherical particles spread uniformly throughout the g-C3N4 nanosheet. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) was applied to determine the bonding properties of the samples. Under visible illumination, the synthesized nanocomposites of Ru-ZnO@g-C3N4 were evaluated as a new effective photocatalyst for degrading organic pigments in aquatic conditions.
Low-Level Laser Therapy in the Treatment of Autoimmune Thyroiditis
Authors: Hossein-Khannazer Nikoo , Kazem Arki Mandana , Keramatinia liasghar , Rezaei-Tavirani Mostafa
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT) is an autoimmune disorder that is characterized by thyroid gland dysfunction. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT), as a safe and non-invasive intervention, has gained much attention in many clinical applications including pain relief, regenerative medicine, and autoimmune.Methods: In this review, we discuss the effect of LLLT on cellular responses and its application in the treatment of AIT. Such keywords as "low-level laser therapy", "photobiomodulation" and "autoimmune thyroiditis" were used to find studies related to laser therapy in AIT in Google Scholar, PubMed and Medline databases. Results: LLLT reduced thyroid gland inflammation and inhibited immune cell trafficking. LLLT modulated inflammatory responses and improved thyroid gland regeneration.Conclusion: Investigations indicated that besides current treatment strategies, LLLT could be a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of AIT.Keywords: Low-level laser therapy (LLLT); Photobiomodulation; Autoimmune thyroiditis; Laser
Photoacoustic Imaging for Periodontal Disease Examination
Authors: Windra Sari Atika , Widyaningrum Rini , yana Mitra
Published: January 2023

Introduction: After caries, periodontal tissue inflammation (periodontitis) is the most common oral health problem. Photoacoustic imaging (PAI) is a new technique that uses simple components such as a diode laser and a condenser microphone. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of a simple PAI system in periodontal disease imaging by using an animal model. Methods: Normal periodontal and periodontitis tissues were obtained from Sprague–Dawley rats categorized as the control group, treatment group 1 (7 days of periodontitis induction), treatment group 2 (11 days of periodontitis induction), and treatment group 3 (14 days of periodontitis induction). The PAI system was controlled by LabVIEW and Arduino IDE software from a personal computer. Results: Results revealed that the optimal frequency of laser modulation for periodontal tissue imaging was 19 kHz with a duty cycle of 50%. The photoacoustic (PA) intensity of periodontal tissues was −68.71 dB for treatment group 3, −70.34 dB for treatment group 2, −71.69 dB for treatment group 1, and ­−73.07 dB for the control group. PA image analysis showed that the PA intensity from periodontal disease groups was higher than the control group. Conclusion: This study indicates the feasibility of using a simple PAI system to differentiate normal periodontal tissues from periodontitis tissues.
Conventional and Pattern Scanning Pan-Retinal Photocoagulation Laser in Diabetic Patients’ Visual Field
Authors: Hassanpoor Narges , Ahoor Mohamadhosein , Latifi Atena , Niyousha Mohamadreza
Published: January 2023

Introduction: In this study, we aimed to compare visual field defects in two different laser methods, namely conventional pan-retinal photocoagulation (PRP) and pattern scanning PRP, in patients with either proliferative diabetic or very severe non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy. Methods: This study was a randomized, single-blind, prospective clinical trial. Twenty patients with either proliferative or very severe non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy were enrolled in this study. Notably, only those patients with the same severity scores in both eyes were included. One eye underwent the conventional PRP laser and another eye underwent the pattern scanning PRP laser simultaneously. Swedish interactive threshold algorithms (SITA) standard perimetry was performed at baseline and one month after the treatment, and visual field defects were evaluated.Results: The pattern standard deviation (PSD) significantly increased in both the pattern and conventional PRP laser groups after one month. The change of the PSD at baseline and after the treatment was not significant between the groups. The mean deviation (MD) level significantly decreased in the conventional group after one month. The change in the MD level at baseline and after the treatment was not significant between the pattern and conventional groups. The change in the mean best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) between the groups was not significant.Conclusion: Changes in visual acuity and visual fields of the patients between the pattern and conventional PRP laser methods showed no significant difference; however, the pattern PRP method caused a smaller reduction in overall sensitivity in the patient’s visual field.
Gingival Melanin Depigmentation Using a Diode 808-nm Laser: A Case Series
Authors: Esmaeili Saharnaz , Shahbazi Soheil , Asnaashari Mohammad
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Gingival hyperpigmentation is caused by an increase in the amount of melanin production or the number of melanocytes in the epithelium, which can impair smile esthetics. The current study aimed to report the experience of using a diode laser for gingival depigmentation of three different patients.Case Presentation: Three adult patients are presented with hyperpigmentation in labial gingivae of both jaws. The depigmentation was done using a diode laser at a wavelength of 808 nm, fiber diameter of 300 μm, and power of 1 W and in continuous mode. All three patients showed proper resolution of hyperpigmented areas in short- and long-term follow-up sessions. However, degrees of recurrence were noticeable in two cases.Conclusion: The 808-nm diode laser can be utilized safely and efficiently in gingival depigmentation, resulting in an acceptable cosmetic outcome.
Facial Rejuvenation in Indonesian Skin With a Picosecond 755-nm Laser
Authors: Wardhani Putri Hendria , Sigit Prakoeswa Cita Rosita , Listiawan Muhammad Yulianto
Published: January 2023

Introduction: The aging process in the skin naturally happens over time, affected by several factors, of which ultraviolet irradiation is a major factor, and this leads to the appearance of wrinkles, pigmentations, and textural irregularities. Lasers for facial rejuvenation are very popular in Asian patients, but melanin rick skin types like Asians are more susceptible to pigmentary alterations. Most Indonesians have brown skin, and just a few have light skin. The purpose of this study was to know the efficacy and safety of the picosecond 755 nm laser in facial rejuvenation in Indonesian skin. Methods: This is an analysis of 20 healthy patients with Fitzpatrick skin type III-V with facial photoaging from 36 to 55 years. Examinations were evaluated before therapy and 4 weeks after the second therapy. The front and side of both cheeks were photographed and analyzed by using VISIA. Clinical improvement was categorized as excellent-mild. The patients were also asked and examined about the presence of adverse events. Results: The patients were predominantly female with an average age of 44 years. Sixty percent of the patients had a good improvement and 40% of the patients had a moderate improvement. The VISIA analysis showed a significant improvement in wrinkles, pigments, and textures (P < 0.001). Only mild anticipated adverse events were observed, and there was no post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation. Conclusion: the picosecond 755 nm laser is effective and safe for facial rejuvenation in the skin of Indonesian patients without significant adverse events.
Effect of Laser-Assisted Hair Removal (LAHR) on the Quality of Life and Depression in Hirsute Females: A Single-Arm Clinical Trial
Authors: Hosseini Mahboubeh Sadat , Ehsani Amir Houshang , Fakour Yousef , Aryanian Zeinab , Elhamfar Mojtaba , Noormohammadpour Pedram
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Hirsutism, mainly due to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), causes stress, anxiety, and depression in females. Laser-assisted hair removal (LAHR) is currently accepted as a good treatment option for hirsutism. The goal of the current study was to ascertain how LAHR affected the degree of hirsutism, quality of life, and depression in hirsute females.Methods: A single-arm before/after clinical trial was designed and performed in the Razi hospital Laser Clinic over a 15-month period. All hirsute females visiting the Razi hospital laser clinic were enrolled and received three sessions of LAHR every 4-6 weeks if they were interested and signed an informed consent form. Before the commencement of LAHR and six to eight weeks after the last session, the Ferriman-Gallwey score (hirsutism severity), Beck score (depression index) and DLQI score (quality of life index) were calculated and stored. Results: There were 80 subjects in all. The mean ± SD of the Ferriman-Gallwey score was reduced from 7.05 ± 2.27 to 4.91 ± 2.41, P < 0.001. The mean ± SD of the Beck depression score was reduced from 13.3 ± 8.7 to 10.2 ± 8.4, P < 0.001, and the mean ± SD of the DLQI score decreased from 5.6 ± 5.2 to 3.5 ± 2.3, P < 0.001. No significant complications were reported. Conclusion: LAHR can improve hirsutism-related depression and degradation of quality of life, as well as hirsutism physical signs.
Evaluation of Antibacterial Effects of Cold Atmospheric Plasma, Calcium Hydroxide, and Triple Antibiotic Paste on Enterococcus faecalis Biofilm in the Root Canal System: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Asnaashari Mohammad , Mehrabinia Pegah , Yadegari Zahra , Hoseini Hanieh , Sadafi Mehdi , Shojaeian Shiva
Published: January 2023

Introduction: One of the essential factors in successful endodontic therapy is the effective cleaning and disinfection of the root canal. This study aimed to determine the effect of cold plasma on infected root canals with Enterococcus faecalis and compare its antibacterial effect with the conventional medicaments in vitro. Methods: Sixty-tree single-root teeth were extracted. Canals were cleaned and shaped. Ten teeth were selected as the negative control randomly. The rest of the teeth were incubated at 37°C for 21 days to form E. faecalis biofilm. The specimens were divided into six groups; each group had 10 teeth. In group 1 (the positive control group of calcium hydroxide and triple antibiotic paste [TAP]), methylcellulose was placed in the root canal; in group 2, calcium hydroxide was placed in the root canal for 12 days; in group 3, 10 mg/mL of TAP was placed in the root canal for 12 days; in group 4, helium/oxygen plasma jet was used for 10 minutes. Group 5 was considered as a positive control of plasma, and group 6 was the negative control. After treatment, F4 Pro-Taper rotary file was used to collect root canal microbial biofilms. Bacterial suspensions were serially diluted, and the percentage of growth reduction for each group was obtained by dividing the logarithm of CFU/mL of each group by CFU/mL of the control of the same group. Results: The CFU/mL of TAP and plasma-treated samples was significantly lower than that of the control groups; however, there were no significant differences between the control group and the samples treated by calcium hydroxide. The most percentage of CFU reduction was in the TAP-treated group compared with plasma and calcium hydroxide-treated groups. Conclusion: The application of cold plasma effectively inhibited the growth of E. faecalis and reduced bacterial biofilm. Also, in the present study, 10 mg/mL of TAP caused the complete elimination of E. faecalis. Calcium hydroxide had the most negligible effect on E. faecalis biofilm elimination.
Tonsillotomy by a Fractional Carbon Dioxide Laser: A New Technique in the Treatment of Chronic Tonsillitis
Authors: Costa Heloisa Juliana Zabeu Rossi , Di Francesco Renata Cantisani , Giancoli Suzana Maria , de Miranda Fernando Mathias Pereira , Bento Ricardo Ferreira
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Chronic tonsillitis has a global prevalence, ranging from 5% to 12%. Its clinical manifestations, like recurrent acute tonsillitis, tonsils hypertrophy, caseum and halitosis, can lead adult patients to be submitted to palatine tonsillectomy, surgery that has morbidity and the potential risk of complications, including severe bleeding. This article proposes a new therapy for chronic tonsillitis in adult patients using a fractional carbon dioxide (CO2) laser, which is a fast, minimally invasive procedure capable of removing the need for the traditional tonsillectomy in many patients. The present research aimed to verify the efficacy of tonsillotomy by fractional ablation using the CO2 laser by comparing the number of bacterial infections, tonsils hypertrophy, halitosis and caseum; it is also aimed at analyzing the benefits, risks and complications of the technique. Methods: In this clinical prospective study, 20 patients were subjected to one session of tonsillotomy by fractional ablation and were followed up for a year. The control group was formed by the same patients in the pre-procedure period (one year) without treatment. Statistical analysis: The Wilcoxon paired test, Friedman tests, and multiple non-parametric comparisons were utilized to analyze the data (significance level of 5%). Results: No complications occurred, and the procedure was fast (30 seconds), safe and tolerated well without general anesthesia. After 1 year, there was a total remission of recurrent acute tonsillitis in 95% of the patients, and after 6 months there was a statistically significant improvement in halitosis and caseum, and tonsils size reduction (P<0.05). The level of satisfaction average was 10 after 3 months and 8 after one year. Conclusion: tonsillotomy by fractional ablation using the CO2 laser is a safe, efficient procedure for chronic tonsillitis in adults, and it can be incorporated into daily clinical practice.
The Effect of 2.45 GHz Electromagnetic Fields on Fear Memory Extinction in Male Rats
Authors: Dehghani Zobeideh , Mahdavi Seyed Mohammad , Modarresi Chahardehi Amir , Mansouri Vahid , Jahani Sherafat Somayeh
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Fear memories are influenced by psychological and environmental variables. We evaluated the effect of 2.45 GHz microwave radiation on rats’ fear learning and memory ability to determine the potential risks. The present study aimed to assess the impacts of corticosterone (CORT) levels on the consolidation and reconsolidation of fear conditioning memories. Methods: The rats were evaluated in contextual fear conditioning using foot shocks in both short-term (7 days) exposure and long-term (30 days) exposure. Young male Wistar rats were continually exposed to radio frequency electromagnetic field radiation for 5-6 weeks (1 h/day) with a frequency, power density, and pulse width of 2.45 GHz, 6.0 mW/cm2 , and 2 ms, respectively. Several animals housed in identical conditions without exposure to radiation were monitored. Results: Based on the results, a significant increase and decrease in body weight and percentage of the freezing time were observed after the short-term group respectively. However, in the long term, we observed no significant difference in body weight, and the freezing time decreased substantially. Conclusion: As CORT levels were analyzed, long-term radiation might increase stress, which was associated with significant weight loss in rats.
Effects of 2.45 GHz Non-Ionizing Radiation on Anxiety-Like Behavior, Gene Expression, and Corticosterone Level in Male Rats
Authors: Tarsaei Mahvash , Peyrovan Zeinab Sadat , Mahdavi Seyed Mohammad , Modarresi Chahardehi Amir , Vafaee Reza , Haidari Mohammad Hosain
Published: January 2023

Introduction: The effects of short-term and long-term exposures to 2.45 GHz radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) on anxiety-like behavior, corticosterone level, and gene expression were investigated. The goal of this study was to explore the effect of electromagnetic fields of 2.45 GHz on clinical signs such as body weight and anxiety-like behavior, including the elevated plus maze test and open-field test, and also on messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of Bax (Bcl2-associated x) and Bcl-2 (B-cell lymphoma 2) genes on the cognitive memory functions in an animal model of rats. Methods: The animals were classified into eight groups, sham groups and exposed groups for short-term and long-term exposures to the same dose of RF-EMR for one hour daily. The Wi-Fi equipment in the sham control group was not turned on during the experiment. Both genes were further confirmed by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The semi-quantitative PCR method of electromagnetic fields in the 2.45 GHz range impacted the expression of Bax and Bcl-2 genes in the rat’s memory. Results: The present study exhibited that short-term radiation could decrease the percentage of entry into the open arm and the percentage of time spent, while there were no substantial impacts on the long-term radiation effect. Our data support the hypothesis that short-term exposure worked as a systemic stressor, raising plasma corticosterone and changing glucocorticoid receptor expression in the hippocampus. Conclusion: Additional research on this specific frequency and amount of radiation is required to discover strategies for protecting the nervous system from the detrimental effects of RF-EMR radiation.
Transcranial Infrared Laser Stimulation for the Treatment of Traumatic Brain Injury: A Case Series
Authors: Rindner Elisabeth S. , Haroon Jonathan M. , Jordan Kaya G. , Mahdavi Kennedy D. , Surya Jean R. , Zielinski Margaret A. , Habelhah Barshen , Venkatraman Victoria , Becerra Sergio A. , Chan Lider , Kuhn Taylor P. , Jordan Sheldon E.
Published: January 2023

Introduction: This study intended to evaluate the safety and possible therapeutic effect of transcranial infrared laser stimulation (TILS) based on photobiomodulation (PBM) among patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Methods: Eleven participants who were diagnosed with TBI after full neurological examination and MRI evaluation by a board-certified neurologist completed five to eight 20-minute TILS sessions using the Cytonsys CytonPro-5000 apparatus (pilot laser control, focused wavelength of 1064 nm, maximum output power of 10W, maximum optical power density of 500 mW/cm2 , effective area 4.5 cm2 in diameter). Per TILS session, participants underwent a laser dose of 250 mW/cm2 continuous laser wave to each hemisphere using predetermined patient-specific coordinates. Structural imaging was used to neuronavigate individual treatment targets in the frontal cortex (Brodmann area 10). The primary safety measure for this study was the occurrence of adverse events (AEs) or serious adverse events (SAEs). The primary efficacy outcome measure was the participant-rated global rating of change (GRC) post-intervention. Secondary outcome measures included a battery of neuropsychological testing and mood questionnaires done both pre- and post-intervention. Results: All patients enrolled in this study protocol were able to tolerate the study procedures without any AEs or SAEs. Nine out of eleven participants had clinically significant improvements in GRC score (≥ +2). Neuropsychological testing and mood questionnaire outcomes also suggested a positive therapeutic effect. Conclusion: This study provides preliminary evidence supporting the safety and potential efficacy of TILS as a non-invasive clinical intervention for individuals with TBI.
Identification of Targeted Central Genes (IGF1 and HMOX1) by Indirect Cold Physical Plasma in Human Melanocytes
Authors: Vafaee Reza , Arjmand Babak , Hamzeloo-Moghadam Maryam , Razzaghi Zahra , Rezaei Tavirani Mostafa , Rezaei Tavirani Sina
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Cold physical plasma is a growing tool in medicine which is applied for the treatment of different cancers. In the present study, the gene profiles of human melanocytes exposed to indirect cold physical plasma versus control individuals are analyzed via protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis. Methods: The gene expression profiles were derived from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), and the significant differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were decoded via "Expression Atlas". PPI network analysis was applied to find the targeted central genes by indirect cold physical plasma. Results: The main connected component of the constructed network including 74 queried DEGs and 50 added first neighbors was analyzed. Considering degree value, betweenness centrality, closeness centrality, and stress, IGF1 and HMOX1 were introduced as the central nodes. Conclusion: The finding of this study indicates that the down-regulation of IGF1 and the up-regulation of HMOX are the prominent events in response to indirect cold physical plasma treatment at the cellular level. Detection of related biological terms via gene ontology is suggested.
Efficacy of Low-Level Laser Therapy for the Treatment of Nonspecific Chronic Neck Pain: Low-Level Laser Therapy vs. Sham Laser
Authors: Momenzadeh Sirous , Zali Alireza , Razzaghi Zahra , Momenzadeh Fatemeh , Mirkheshti Alireza , Sayadi Shahram , Teymourian Houman , Momenzadeh Raziyeh
Published: January 2023

Introduction: The most common type of neck pain is chronic nonspecific pain. There are conflicting opinions about the beneficial effects of a low-level laser in reducing chronic nonspecific neck pain. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) for the treatment of non-specific chronic neck pain. Methods: This study was conducted as a prospective randomized clinical trial. Forty-four patients were randomly divided into two groups: (1) Intervention group (n=22): LLLT in the red spectra range with a wavelength of 980 (nm) and a power of 16 (J/cm2 ) was irradiated in the affected areas of the neck, the muscles along the spine, and the upper trapezius; (2) sham group (n=22): A low-level laser was irradiated with a passive probe (non-laser red light) in the affected areas of the neck, the muscles along the spine, and the upper trapezius. The treatment protocol consisted of 12 sessions (15 minutes, three times a week, for four weeks). These patients were evaluated for pain using the visual analog scale (VAS) (0-10). The patients were followed up for four weeks. Results: This study showed a statistically significant reduction in chronic nonspecific neck pain in the LLLT group (P<0.05). Conclusion: It is concluded that LLLT was effective in reducing chronic nonspecific neck pain. LLLT is a non-invasive, safe and effective method that can improve chronic nonspecific neck pain in patients in the short term.