bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blockchain-Based Secure Transactions
Authors: M. Kawsalya , A. V. Senthil Kumar , V. Akash , Lolit M. Villanueva , Masadeh Shadi Rasheed , Rawat Anamika
Published: June 2023

Traditional transactions have several issues, like physical cash, for instance, boarding fake bank notes and also building stock to use money significantly less complex. In this digital marketing world, hackers are using many ways and techniques to scam money. The three most common online transaction frauds in India are scam using QR codes, UPI frauds, remote access/screen sharing frauds. Protection and privacy are the main anticipated features in the field of online transactions, which can be fulfilled by blockchain technology. This proposal is crucial as it is the first attempt to apply blockchain technology to payment services. In the proposed system, due to high level of fraud, blockchain technology is used. Hackers attack one block and change their address, and hence, transaction is blocked and amount will also be refunded using blockchain approach hashing algorithms. The main steps of blockchain used in the proposed system are transaction data, changing blocks with a hash, and creating signature (hash) using cryptographic hash function.
Blockchain-Based Decentralized Documentation System
Authors: C. R. Sriram , A. P. Prasanna Moorthy , Krishnan Santhi , Chellatamilan T. , Anbarasi M.
Published: June 2023

Property enrolment is a salient process. There are several escape clauses and issues. The existing system endures the fabrication of land documents which results in a loss of revenue to the government. So, developing a decentralized online registration using blockchain (BC) makes it comfortable for citizens to transfer property, prevents the touting of the same property to various buyers, and also helps the government to monitor and keep track of property movement to prevent money laundering on real estate. The process of automation eliminates the need for more humans to employ and also reduces the need for storage building which is required for storing physical documents. In this chapter, interplanetary file system (IPFS) is used for connecting all computing devices or nodes with the same system files and storing large files effectively. The land is successfully transferred between users after the successful completion of payment. Moreover, the proposed hybrid system does not require nodes to solve complex puzzles and thus reduces the use of high computational energy.
Indigenous Women in Academia
Authors: Fredericks Bronwyn , Bunda Tracey , Bradfield Abraham
Published: June 2023

Despite increasing numbers of Indigenous women within Australian universities, Indigenous academics continue to face barriers that obstruct promotions to senior leadership positions. Reflecting on a capacity-building program run by and for Indigenous women, the authors explore Indigenous peoples' responses to institutional racism. The authors consider how leadership is synonymous with resistance and misguided characterisations of Indigenous people and scholarship. They demonstrate that leadership emerges out of culturally safe spaces conducive to communal and reciprocal learning. Providing participants with the tools and mentorship needed to progress within the academy, they can acquire the support and confidence needed to push back to oppressive structures. Indigenous academics continue to engage their sovereignty and forge their own spaces. The authors argue that greater leadership is needed by universities whose policies and governance structures have the ability and power to further promote Indigenous peoples to leadership positions and build capacity amongst emerging leaders.
An Integrated Framework for Leadership
Authors: Tiwari Narayan , Fallon Wayne , Bye Jayne
Published: June 2023

In the turbulent and volatile operating environment of Australia's higher education sector, leadership is critical in responding to institutional challenges. This chapter presents a dynamic integrated framework for leadership that can support leaders in these institutions and, potentially, other organisations as well. The chapter describes the outcomes of a Delphi study that sought to uncover areas of consensus about leadership, among leaders and academics across the sector. The study revealed 15 distinct elements of leadership, and these were found to fall into three separate but interrelated groups or domains of leadership: behaviours, mindsets, and skills. Together, these domains are claimed to provide an appropriate and practical representation of effective leadership in higher education. The dynamic integration of these domains and elements of leadership into an interrelated tripartite arrangement, a framework for leadership, is argued to represent a new approach to understanding the leadership phenomenon.
Leading With Happiness
Authors: Verma Palak , Arora Nitin , Ahmed Ezaz
Published: June 2023

This study investigates the changes in leaders' perspectives towards framing new educational policies supporting sustainable empowerment of academicians via focusing on happiness and well-being. The objectives of this study are (1) to explore various factors influencing academicians' happiness post-pandemic, (2) to propose various guidelines for educational leaders to support future policy formulation, and (3) to develop an institutional happiness framework for building sustainable universities. Based on interviews with university professors, a qualitative methodology is being utilized where themes are extracted using NVIVO. The study highlights various factors contributing towards enhancing academicians' happiness (i.e., academic freedom, work-life balance, workload management, annual academic retreats, ex-student appreciation rewards, mindfulness in research). The proposed institutional happiness model can be used to enhance research practices, teaching patterns, community service awareness, and innovation, which positively contribute towards achieving SDG 3, SDG 4, and SDG 9.
Future of Leadership
Authors: Dudeja Mansi , Kapoor Shikha
Published: June 2023

This chapter discusses how digitization has changed leadership and what it means for leaders. Digitalization has been heralding changes for years, including an increase in remote leadership and the usage of digital communication tools. Small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) are now faced with the challenge of adjusting to these developments and must deal with significant uncertainties: the key trends that leaders in SMEs should consider, the changes that will affect leadership and how they will alter the behaviours that are essential for success. The experts' predictions for trends include adjustments to organizational structures and workplace practices. Organizationally, businesses will become more flexible and diversified with less emphasis on hierarchies, and they will work more closely together. Big data will have a bigger impact on work, and many jobs will be automated or made simpler by technology.
Avalanche Robustness Investigation of SiC Avalanche Diodes at High Temperatures
Authors: Sekiguchi Takato , Mochizuki Masaya , Yamamoto Masayuki , Nakayama Koji , Tanaka Yasunori
Published: June 2023

The avalanche robustness of 430 V SiC avalanche diodes at high temperatures is investigated. The UIS test was performed with fixed avalanche time in order to avoid the effect of a thermal diffusion time on an avalanche energy. It is found that the avalanche energies at 25 are 10.5 J/cm2 for and 12.7 J/cm2 for while those at 170 are 8.02 J/cm2 and 9.96 J/cm2, respectively. Their temperature coefficients are about-0.018 J/cm2K, which are much smaller than those of typical SiC-MOSFETs, indicating that the SiC diodes maintain great avalanche robustness even at high temperatures.
Analysis of Basal Plane Dislocation Motion Induced by p+ Ion Implantation Using Synchrotron X-Ray Topography
Authors: Chen Ze Yu , Liu Yafei , Peng Hong Yu , Cheng Qian Yu , Hu Shanshan , Raghothamachar Balaji , Dudley Michael , Mancini Stephen A. , Jang Seung Yup , Sung Woong Je
Published: June 2023

Multiple PIN diodes with junction termination extension (JTE) were fabricated on 4H-SiC wafers with 10 μm thick epilayers by ion implantation with various dosages of Al ions at room temperature (RT) and high temperature (600 °C). The subsequent annealing process was conducted at 1650 °C for 10 minutes to activate the dopant atoms and recover the lattice damages introduced by the implantation. Synchrotron X-ray topography was used to characterize the defects in the devices, and it is observed that basal plane dislocations (BPDs) were generated during the annealing process from the boundaries between the high (P+) and low (P-) doping concentration in devices implanted with relatively high doses at RT. Further, topographs also manifest motion of BPDs due to implantation-induced stresses, where BPDs with opposite sign Burgers vectors move in directions accommodative of nature of stress (tensile/compressive). On the other hand, generation of BPDs due to implantation was not observed in devices implanted either at relatively low dosages at both temperatures or relatively high dosages at high temperature. Measurements of blocking behaviors of devices illustrate that devices with higher densities of process-induced BPDs yield higher leakage currents.
Control of the Deformation Mode of Aluminum Foam-Filled Tubes as a Function of Foam Porosity
Authors: Benhizia Abdennour , Bensalem Ilyas
Published: June 2023

This paper focuses on the computational modeling of the crashworthiness performance of designed foam-filled thin-walled tubular structures under quasi-static compression loading. The studied foam sample is designed in SolidWorks using the ‘sphere subtraction method’ and implemented as a filler material in the thin-walled tube. The quasi-static compression was simulated by Abaqus software. The foam porosity is manipulated to enhance the crashworthiness performance of empty tubes. The deformation mode and energy absorption capability of the analyzed structures are introduced in detail. The numerical results showed that foam-filler material could change the deformation mode and improve stability during the compression process of thin-walled tubular structures. The number of lobes significantly increases when introducing the foam filler to the tube. These folds are affected by the foam porosity. Results also indicate that the total crushing load of the foam-filled tube is also a function of foam porosity, the mechanical response of the foam-filled tubes tended towards the response of the empty tube for a high porosity (P >85%), while for low porosity (P<85%) the mechanical response of the foam-filled tubes exhibits the three universal deformation characteristics of foams, namely, initial linear stage, extended plateau stage, and final densification stage. The main mechanical properties: collapse stress, plateau stress, and densification strain were obtained via the energy-efficient method for different configurations. The calculated mechanical properties exhibited a strong dependence on foam porosity. To give a quantitative description of the obtained quasi-static compressive properties, these properties are expressed as a function of foam porosity. The proposed formulas can easily recover the quasi-static compressive properties of the empty tube in the case of the absence of foam. The control of the compressive performance of foam-filled tubes as a function of porosity allows for finding an optimum geometry with a predefined foam porosity value adjusted for a given application.
Tailored Polycrystalline Substrate for SmartSiCTM Substrates Enabling High Performance Power Devices
Authors: Biard Hugo , Odoul Sidoine , Schwarzenbach Walter , Radu Ionut , Maleville Christophe , Potier Alexandre , Ferrato Marc , Guajioty Eric
Published: June 2023

Silicon Carbide (SiC) Power Devices have emerged as a breakthrough technology for a wide range of applications in the frame of high-power electronics, notably in the 600 to 3,300V. The last decades have shown a continuous and impressive improvement in both 4H-SiC wafer size and quality. Nevertheless, the availability of such wafers remains a challenge for the SiC power industry. In the last three years, Soitec has successfully adapted the Smart Cut™ technology to Silicon Carbide, resulting in the integration of a thin layer of high quality 4H-SiC on an ultra-low resistivity 3C p-SiC handle wafer. The so-called SmartSiC™ offers a drastic yield improvement for the whole industry thanks to the multiple times re-use of the 4H-SiC donor wafer, as well as an improvement of the device’s electrical performance, especially thanks to the ultra-low resistivity polycrystalline silicon carbide (p-SiC). The latter being specially developed to enhance the new SmartSiC™ substrate capabilities. In this paper, we present the work done by Mersen and Soitec to tailor the p-SiC properties, and thus the SmartSiC™ ones including such material.
Proven Power Cycling Reliability of Ohmic Annealing Free SiC Power Device through the Use of SmartSiCTM Substrate
Authors: Guiot Eric , Allibert Frédéric , Leib Jürgen , Becker Tom , Schwarzenbach Walter , Hellinger Carsten , Erlbacher Tobias , Rouchier Séverin
Published: June 2023

The Smart CutTM technology enables the combination of a high quality single crystal SiC layer onto a low resistivity handle wafer (<5mOhm.cm), allowing device optimization as well as the reduction of device’s conduction and switching losses. On this new SmartSiCTM substrate, the sheet resistance of the back side contact after metal deposition, without anneal, is about 10x lower than the annealed back side contact on 4H-SiC. Schottky-barrier vertical structures thinned down to 250μm were prepared for power cycling tests (PCT) measurements. Up to 250 k cycles, the devices remained within the specifications of AQG324 for samples prepared from SmartSiCTM substrates. We are demonstrating here that in addition to a higher current rating (up to 20%), the SmartSiCTM substrate enables a device fabrication simplification by skipping the annealing of the back-side ohmic contact, without compromising either the back-side contact resistance or the assembly PCsec reliability.
The Influence of Machining Variables on the Quality of the Shaping Process on Hard Steel
Authors: Aminy Ahmad Yusran , Hayat Azwar , Mudassir Mudassir
Published: June 2023

The product quality of hard steel material formed by a shaping machine using HSS tools was studied under the influence of machining variables. The research focused on the effects of tool vibration on the surface roughness of the product. The experimental process was carried out by selecting the machining independent variables, namely: cutting speed (V) = 1 m/min; 2 m/min; 3 m/min; cutting thickness (a) = 1 mm, 1.5 mm, 2 mm; feeding motion (f) = 5 mm/step; 8mm/step; 10 mm/step. Shaping machine was operated with 3 fixed speed levels (n) of 21.8 rpm, 39 rpm and 59.8 rpm, respectively. The dependent variable, namely stroke per minute (np); and feed rate (Vf). The material used was ASTM A483-A high carbon steel. Vibration measurements were taken during machining using an ADXL 345 accelerometer and an Arduino Pro Mini with support for Arduino IDE 1.8.13 and USB TTL CP 2120 software. Vibration acceleration (af) on the tool was recorded and an evaluation was performed to determine the effects of machining variables on the final products. The results show that speed lavel of machine, feed rate , and cutting thickness majorly affect vibration. The lowest vibration was obtained at a speed (n) of 21.8 rpm, a feed rate (Vf) of 1 mm/s, and cutting thickness (a) of 0.2 mm. The highest vibration was obtained at n of 59.6 rpm, Vf = 1 mm/s and a of 0.4 mm. The quality of the product related to the surface roughness was mainly influenced by the machine speed levels. The roughness values ranged from 3.97 to 6.46 µm, with the lowest surface roughness or smoother surface achieved at a moderate speed of 39 rpm and higher surface roughness at high (59.8 rpm) and low (21.8 rpm) speeds.
Humidity Robustness of 3.3kV SiC-MOSFETs for Traction Applications - Compared to Standard Silicon IGBTs in Identical Packages
Authors: Hanf Michael , Peters Jan Hendrik , Hoffmann Felix , Kaminski Nando
Published: June 2023

Silicon carbide (SiC) MOSFETs are gaining more and more market share in typical silicon (Si) IGBT applications such as traction or renewable energies. Especially in reliability sensitive traction applications, medium voltage IGBT-modules (3.3 kV-6.5 kV) are widely used and introducing SiC-MOSFETs to such industries is the next self-evident step already on the way. While their superior electrical performance has been generally accepted already (e.g. [1]), SiC-modules have not yet established a track record of high reliability in this voltage class. For this study, 3.3kV SiC-MOSFET-switches were compared to standard Si-IGBTs regarding their humidity robustness under high voltage bias. Both chip types had been assembled in the same traction rated packages to exclude this influence. The Si-IGBTs resembled the well-known industry standard performance, while the SiC-MOSFETs show no degradation within the reported test time of 2000 h. Given the fact [2], that the latest Si-IGBT generation offers a much better humidity performance as well, the standardised HV-H³TRB is no longer sufficient to provoke failures within a reasonable testing time. On the one hand, this suggests that humidity driven failures will not be an issue under field conditions anymore. On the other hand, even harsher tests are required to investigate differences in humidity performance.
Optimization of Aircraft Fuel Dump Rate towards the Mitigation of Post-Impact Fire
Authors: Jinadu Abdulbaqi , Olayemi Olalekan Adebayo , Daniel Joshua , Odenibi Oluwatomiwa John , Koloskov Volodymyr , Tiniakov Dmytro
Published: June 2023

This study seeks to improve the utilization of compressed air towards a faster fuel jettisoning, to increase the survival rate of passengers in the event of an accident or aborted takeoffs by augmenting the already existing means of dumping fuel with no considerable increase in overall weight. The aircraft fuel dump sub-system was isolated, this process was achieved with the aid of the venturi effect. The engine compressor marks the start of the aircraft fuel dump sub-system while an exterior nozzle for displacing the fuel marks its end. This system achieved jettisoning through bled-off air from the compressor, passing through a converging-diverging nozzle (primary supersonic nozzle), thereby creating a vacuum in the mixing chamber. A jet which provides a direct connection between the fuel tank and the mixing chamber sucks fuel from the tank, where bypassed air from the compressor expels the sucked air in fine particles. After running the simulation, the mass flow rate was computed. The compressed air inlet has a mass flow rate of 58.5193(Kg/S), the kerosene inlet 1.2385(Kg/S) while the outlet has a relative value of-59.6541(Kg/S).This study seeks to improve the utilization of compressed air towards a faster fuel jettisoning, to increase the survival rate of passengers in the event of an accident or aborted takeoffs by augmenting the already existing means of dumping fuel with no considerable increase in overall weight. The aircraft fuel dump sub-system was isolated, this process was achieved with the aid of the venturi effect. The engine compressor marks the start of the aircraft fuel dump sub-system while an exterior nozzle for displacing the fuel marks its end. This system achieved jettisoning through bled-off air from the compressor, passing through a converging-diverging nozzle (primary supersonic nozzle), thereby creating a vacuum in the mixing chamber. A jet that provides a direct connection between the fuel tank and the mixing chamber sucks fuel from the tank, where bypassed air from the compressor expels the sucked air in fine particles. After running the simulation, the mass flow rate was computed. The compressed air inlet has a mass flow rate of 58.5193(Kg/s), and the kerosene inlet 1.2385(kg/s) while the outlet has a relative value of -59.6541(kg/s).
Modification of Polyester Properties through Functionalization with PVA
Authors: Pinto Sara , Miranda Teresa , Kašparová Marie , Wiener Jakub
Published: June 2023

Due to the growing demand of the textile market, the production of synthetic fibers like polyester (PET), has been increasing compared to any other existing fiber group. However, this type of fiber has its own disadvantages, the main one being its hydrophobic nature. To improve its properties, it was sought to develop a chemical functionalization. This process consisted of three steps, the first one being the cleaning of the polyester with hydrochloric acid, followed by a subsequent hydrolysis of the textile substrate in an alkaline medium in the presence of sodium hydroxide. The last phase, that concerns the textile substrate functionalization with poly (vinyl alcohol), more commonly known as PVA, was made by a process of exhaustion at different pH values (3, 6, and 10), followed by a curing, which allowed the formation of bonds between the PVA and the polyester fibers and consequently improve polyester properties, namely the hydrophilicity, presenting a contact angle of 0º. This process of functionalization of the polyester with PVA at acidic pH, led to very promising results since a significant improvement of its properties was obtained. The functionalized and original polyester samples were further characterized through the application of several techniques, such as SEM, FTIR-ATR and differential scanning calorimetry DSC. These characterization techniques allowed to prove that the textile substrates were effectively modified. It can be concluded that, properties such as, contact angle, tensile strength, air permeability, coefficient of friction and water vapor permeability, were substantially improved by the functionalization of the polyester fabric with PVA.
Study of GHz-Burst Femtosecond Laser Micro-Punching of 4H-SiC Wafers
Authors: Mir Hanan , Meyer Fabian , Brand Andreas A. , Dulitz Katrin , Nekarda Jan Frederik
Published: June 2023

The micromaching of silicon carbide using femtosecond laser pulses is becoming an important field of research. High-repetition-rate sub-pulse trains, so-called pulse bursts, are a particularly promising route towards completely new process regimes. We report on the results of micro-punching n-type 4H-silicon carbide wafers using GHz pulse burst in order to systematically investigate the influence of the temporal energy distribution on laser processing. Pulse-burst experiments are performed at a laser wavelength of λ= 1030 nm using a single GHz burst containing a varying number of pulses and then compared with standard single femtosecond pulse exposures. The pulse energy is swept across the ablation threshold. For each set of parameters, the micromachining efficiency is evaluated in terms of ablation efficiency and burr characteristics. Scanning electron micrographs provide qualitative information about the machining quality. The characteristics of the laser modification are discussed in relation to an increase in the number of pulses in a burst envelope and to an increase in pulse energy. We observe that, compared to a single pulse, a GHz burst comprised of 10 lower-energy pulses leads to an increase in the ablation rate by a factor of ≤ 10.
Bias-Induced Instability of 4H-SiC CMOS
Authors: Wen Yu Xin , Tsui Bing Yue
Published: June 2023

4H-SiC complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) devices for control circuit applications have been reported extensively, however, the electrical stability, even with interface optimization processes, degrades significantly after bias stress. In this paper, we performed both positive and negative bias stress on planar SiC NMOSFETs and PMOSFETs fabricated with pure (non-diluted) and N2-diluted NO post-oxidation annealing (POA) processes. The test results indicate the existence of positive hole traps might be the culprit that leads to electrical characteristics instability during operation and pure NO annealing is effective to reduce the instability.
Pulmonary Point-of-Care Ultrasonography in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Gayen Shameek , Kim Jin Sun , Desai Parag
Published: June 2023

Pulmonary point-of-care ultrasonography (POCUS) is a quick and essential tool in the diagnosis of various pulmonary pathologies. Pulmonary POCUS can aid in the detection of pneumothorax, pleural effusion, pulmonary edema, and pneumonia, with sensitivity and specificity comparable, if not superior, to those of chest radiograph and chest computed tomography. Knowledge of anatomy and scanning of both lungs in multiple positions is essential for effective pulmonary POCUS. In addition to identifying pertinent anatomic structures such as the diaphragm, liver, spleen, and pleura and identifying specific ultrasonography findings such as A-lines, B-lines, lung sliding, and dynamic air bronchograms, POCUS helps detect pleural and parenchymal abnormalities. Proficiency in pulmonary POCUS is an attainable and essential skill in the care and management of the critically ill patient.
Wickham striae on skin appendages: a helpful dermoscopic feature
Authors: Fagotto Laura , Gnesotto Laura , Vincenzi Colombina , Piraccini Bianca Maria , Naldi Luigi , Sechi Andrea
Published: June 2023

Lichen planus (LP) is a chronic inflammatory disease, clinically characterized by purpuric, itchy papules that typically spread on the trunk and extremities. Other body sites can also be affected, including mucosal membranes, nails, and the scalp. The use of dermoscopy is essential in determining the diagnosis of LP, as it may highlight pathognomonic features such as Wickham striae (WS). WS are thin, pearly white structures arranged in a reticular pattern that are observed over LP lesions and histologically correspond to epidermal hypergranulosis. WS is usually most visible on the oral mucosa but can also cover almost every active LP papule. Here, we report two cases of biopsy-proven LP that show WS on dermoscopy in two specific sites: the scalp and proximal nail fold.
The effect of vitamin D deficiency on glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Rashad Mostafa Neveen , Ali Abeer Ahmed Mohamed , Marzo Roy Rillera
Published: June 2023

Multiple factors are involved in the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), but an imbalance between free radical formation and antioxidant removal is the main cause of diabetic complications. Micronutrients with antioxidant properties may have a role in the development of diabetes mellitus (DM) and its complications. Vitamin D has recently been found to have membrane antioxidant effect and a relationship to the development of T2DM, as it can modify its risk. Whether vitamin D deficiency has an effect on hyperglycemia in diabetic patients or not need further study. Our aim was to examine the effect of vitamin D deficiency on glycemic control in T2DM. We examined the vitamin D levels of 100 patients with T2DM and correlated them with fasting blood sugar and glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels. High levels of fasting blood sugar and HbA1c levels were significantly associated with vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D deficiency negatively affects glycemic control in patients with T2DM.
Use of commercial protective cultures in portioned sheep milk cheeses to control Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Sanna Rita , Piras Francesca , Siddi Giuliana , Meloni Maria Pina , Demontis Mariella , Spanu Vincenzo , Nieddu Gavino , Cuccu Mario , De Santis Enrico Pietro Luigi , Scarano Christian
Published: June 2023

The main objective of this study was to innovate soft and semi-cooked sheep milk cheese production processes with the use of a commercial protective culture able to control Listeria monocytogenes growth. A freeze-dried commercial culture of Lactobacillus plantarum was tested in DS cheese and PS cheese, two types of pasteurized sheep milk, raw-paste cheeses aged for no less than 20 and 30 days respectively. In the first step, in vitro tests were conducted to identify the most suitable matrix for the growth of L. plantarum in order to create a subculture that could be used at industrial cheese-making plants. During the second phase of the study, L. plantarum culture was introduced in the manufacturing process of the cheeses in a production plant. Finally, a challenge test was conducted on portioned DS and PS cheeses in order to evaluate the activity of the protective culture against L. monocytogenes: the cheeses were portioned, experimentally contaminated with L. monocytogenes strains, vacuum packed and stored at +4°C (correct storage conditions) and at +10°C (thermal abuse). Cheeses were analysed at the end of the shelf-life to evaluate the presence and growth of L. monocytogenes, to enumerate lactic acid bacteria and determine chemical-physical features. The results confirmed that protective cultures are a useful technological innovation to control L. monocytogenes growth during cheese storage without altering composition, microflora and chemical-physical characteristics of the product. However, the use of protective cultures should be applied as an integration of risk control measures and not as a substitute for preventive actions.
Osseous Tissue Engineering in the Management of Mandibular Osteoradionecrosis – An Evaluative Study
Authors: Kanakaraj Manimaran , Chinnannan Marudhamani , Nagarathinam Anbu Elangovan , Rangarajan Ravi Velamor , Devadas Avinash Gandi , Jeyaraman Madhan
Published: June 2023

Introduction:

Osteoradionecrosis (ORN), a non-infectious, necrotic condition of the bone, occurs as a major complication of radiotherapy to the irradiated site. Simple irrigation of the involved bone to partial or complete resection of the involved bones is being employed in its conventional management. Osseous tissue engineering (OTE) provides a new strategy by regenerating bone cells along with biocompatible scaffolds and micromolecules to produce an engineered osseous tissue.

Materials and Methods:

In this study, mandibular ORN following radiation secondary to oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma was included. OTE with composite engineered tissue containing a mixture of autologous culture expanded dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs), autologous uncultured bone marrow aspiration concentrate (BMAC) and autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) loaded in b-tricalcium phosphate (b-TCP) or hydroxyapatite (HA) sponge scaffold was used in the mandibular defect and the surrounding tissues. An assessment of clinical, radiological and functional attributes was done.

Results:

A total of six cases with a mean age of 58.6 years were included in the study. We noted significant improvement in the mean post-operative score for pain and mouth opening; functional improvement in eating solid/liquid food, tongue movement, speech and deglutition were observed. The aesthetics was measured with Vancouver score and revealed a significance at P < 0.05; also lip competency and occlusion were noted in all the patients. No major complications were noticed until a mean follow-up of 28 months.

Discussion:

Tissue engineering with a regenerative cocktail of autologous culture expanded DPSCs, autologous uncultured BMAC and autologous PRP loaded in HA or b-TCP utilised in the surgical reconstruction of the mandible is an effective treatment modality in the management of mandibular ORN following irradiation.
Diagnostic Challenges in a Rare Submandibular Epidermoid Cyst Transforming into Squamous Cell Carcinoma - A Case Report
Authors: Hossain Ikbal
Published: June 2023

Rationale:

Submandibular gland epidermoid cyst is extremely rare and malignant transformation into squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is even rarer. No such case report is published.

Patient Concerns:

A 49-year-old female reported with a large, slowly growing left-sided neck swelling present for two years. Her primary concern was large swelling.

Diagnosis:

Clinical finding, cytology and imaging were suggestive of ‘Epidermoid Cyst of Submandibular Gland’. Intraoperative frozen section and post-operative definitive histopathological examination (HPE) revealed malignant transformation into SCC.

Treatment:

In toto surgical excision was performed. Once the frozen section HPE confirmed transformation into SCC, clearance of 4–6 mm margin and modified supraomohyoid neck dissection was completed.

Outcome:

No sign of recurrence on 1-year postoperative follow-up.

Take-Away Lesson:

This case is unique of its kind without any previous literature report. In case of large and rapidly growing submandibular gland lesion, possibility of malignant transformation should not be overruled.
Innovative Occupational Therapy Methods for Supporting Students with Disabilities during Coronavirus Disease 2019
Authors: Moirangthem Sarju , Ojha Gita Jyoti
Published: June 2023

Background:

As the world continues facing the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), life has been challenging. Throughout the world, the most commonly practiced method of prevention from COVID-19 infection has been isolation and social distancing. Since January 2020, most of the countries started implementing lockdowns locally or nationwide as a containment measure. Consequently, there has been a closure of schools. Although there exist several studies on how challenges are being met in mainstream education during COVID-19, little focus has been toward students with disabilities who need supportive services like occupational therapy to aid in their learning. It is imperative to look at the gaps and the methods in which occupational therapists can provide creative and innovative solutions to aid students with disabilities. Hence, this scoping review was undertaken for the innovative occupational therapy methods for supporting those students with disabilities during COVID-19.

Objectives:

The objectives of this study were to identify barriers in the context of learning for students with disabilities in COVID-19 and to identify innovative methods in occupational therapy to aid learning for students with disabilities.

Study Design:

This was a scoping review.

Methods:

The methodological framework for scoping reviews by Arksey and O'Malley was used in reporting findings. The overarching question: “What are the innovative occupational therapy strategies used to support students with disabilities during COVID-19” was addressed. Using the search terms related to “occupational therapy,” “students with disabilities/special needs” and COVID-19” for the duration of December 2019 to August 2021 in various databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library were searched. Only those studies pertaining to learning outcomes within school occupational therapy were included. The data collected were charted. Finally, it was collated and summarized and the results were reported.

Results:

As per the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews, 1188 studies related to the topic were found. After using filters such as full text, English language, and gray literature, 115 studies were identified. Finally, after full-text screening and selecting studies pertaining to learning outcomes within school OT, 5 studies were identified for synthesis.

Conclusion:

There are a number of studies which prove that telehealth OT in health-related context is successful. In this study, it has been found that telehealth is also emerging as a crucial method of service delivery in occupational therapy for students with disabilities in the learning context.
Translation and Validation of the Urdu Version of the Methotrexate Intolerance Severity Score in Patients with Inflammatory Arthritis
Authors: Saif Saba , Kakalia Spenta , Kitchlew Rizwana , Khan Haseeb Ahmed , Sarwar Muhammad Usman
Published: June 2023

Background:

Methotrexate (MTX) is a cornerstone in the treatment of patients with inflammatory arthritis but is not tolerated well by patients. This intolerance can be identified using the Methotrexate Intolerance Severity Score (MISS).

Objective:

The objective of this study was to translate and validate the MISS in the Urdu language.

Materials and Methods:

It was a cross-sectional study done at the Department of Rheumatology, Combined Military Hospital, Lahore, from December 1, 2021, to March 31, 2022. A total of 181 patients with inflammatory arthritis taking MTX for >3 months participated in the study. The translated Urdu version was tested in these patients who attempted the questionnaire twice with a gap of 2 weeks. Cronbach’s alpha, item correlations, and kappa coefficients were used to evaluate internal consistency, acceptability, and reproducibility. A culturally admissible Urdu version of MISS was developed.

Results:

The results show a 90% response rate, <1% missing data with very good acceptability, and understanding of patients. There were satisfactory inter-item, dimension-item, and inter-dimension correlations. The kappa coefficient was more than 0.90 for most items except associative stomachache (0.79). Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was 0.78, much higher than 0.6, and in the validation cohort, it was 0.74. The internal and external consistency results for validation were satisfactory. There was a good understanding between the test and retest for every patient. The MISS showed a sensitivity of 72% and a specificity of 100% at a discriminative cutoff value of 6.5. Of the 181 patients receiving MTX, 48 (26.5%) experienced MTX intolerance.

Conclusion:

This validated Urdu version MISS is a sensitive and specific tool that can better detect this MTX intolerance. It discriminates well between MTX-tolerant and intolerant patients.
3-Aminophenylboronic Acid Conjugation on Responsive Polymer and Gold Nanoparticles for Qualitative Bacterial Detection
Authors: Wikantyasning Erindyah Retno , Da’i Muhammad , Cholisoh Zakky , Kalsum Ummi
Published: June 2023

ABSTRACT

Background:

Because of their sensitive and selective responses to a wide variety of analytes, colorimetric sensors have gained widespread acceptance in recent years. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are widely employed in visual sensor strategies due to their high stability and ease of use. Combining AuNPs with a responsive polymer can result in distinct surface plasmon resonance (SPR) changes that can be utilized as colorimetric biosensors.

Objectives:

The purpose of this research is to develop a colorimetric-based sensor through the utilization of the optical properties of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) crosslinked with pH-responsive polymers poly (acrylic acid) (PAA) conjugated to 3-aminophenyl boronic acid (APBA).

Methods:

The polymer (PAA) was synthesized via RAFT polymerization. The inversed Turkevic method was used to produce AuNPs, which were subsequently used in a self-assembly process using poly (acrylic acid)-aminophenyl boronic acid (PAA-APBA) to create the self-assembled AuNPs-APBA-PAA. The particle size, zeta potential, and reversibility of the polymer-modified gold nanoparticles were determined using a transmission electron microscope (TEM), a particle size analyzer (PSA), and an Ultraviolet-Visible spectrophotometer (UV-Vis spectrophotometer). Visual, UV-Vis spectrophotometer and TEM observations confirmed the system’s ability to identify bacteria. Statistical analysis was performed using a one-way analysis of variance using Excel software.

Results:

Using UV-Vis spectrophotometry, the particle size of AuNPs was determined to be 25.7 nm, and the maximum absorbance occurred at 530 nm. AuNPs PAA APBA colloid exhibited an absorbance maximum of 532 nm, a zeta potential of -41.53, and a pH transition point between 4 and 5. At E. coli concentrations of 4.5 x 107 CFU/mL, the color of the system sensors changed from red to blue after 15 hours of incubation, whereas at S. aureus concentrations of 1.2 x 109 CFU/mL, the color changed to purple immediately after mixing. The TEM confirmed that the detection mechanism is based on the boronate-polyol bonding of saccharides on the outer membranes of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus.

Conclusions:

The use of APBA in conjunction with pH-responsive PAA polymers containing AuNPs to detect E. coli and S. aureus bacteria induces a maximum wavelength transition, followed by a color change from red to blue. By the process of de-swelling of the responsive polymer, which induces the aggregation of the AuNPs, the established sensor system is able to alter the color. The conjugated polymer and gold nanoparticle-based sensor system demonstrated a promising method for bacterial detection.
Crashworthiness Performance of Rear Underrun Protection Device under
Simulated Car Collision
Authors: Albahash Zeid Fadel , Sharba Mohaiman , Hasan Bahaa Aldin Abass
Published: June 2023

A rear underrun protection device (RUPD) plays a fundamental role in reducing the
risk of running a small car beneath the rear or the side of a heavy truck
because of the difference in structure heights in the event of a vehicle
collision. Even in cars with five-star safety ratings, crashing into a truck
with poorly designed RUPD results in a passenger compartment intrusion (PCI)
more than the maximum allowable limit as per the United States (US) American
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) standards Federal Motor
Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS). In this article, mild steel was used to
fabricate the new designs of RUPD. The design was analyzed using finite element
(FE) analysis LS-DYNA software. Simulations of a Toyota Yaris 2010 and Ford
Taurus 2001 were performed at a constant speed of 63 km/h at the time of impact.
The ability to prevent severe injuries in a collision with the rear side of the
truck was estimated to optimize the underrun design. The new design has achieved
the goal of decreasing the head acceleration beyond the limit, which is less
than 60 g. It has achieved a reduction in acceleration by 66.116% and zero PCIs
even in collisions with different safety ratings cars.
Identity Politics and its Implication on the Nigerian Electoral Process
Authors: Alabi Abdullahi , SulaimanJamiu Mubarak , Akinkunmi Abdulmuthalib
Published: June 2023

This paper discusses the impact of identity politics on the Nigerian electoral process, with a focus on the 2019 general elections. The emergence of identity politics, which relies on ethnicity, religion, and regionalism to shape voters' preferences, has had far-reaching consequences on political discourse and election outcomes in Nigeria and other parts of the world. The paper draws on Social Identity Theory (SIT), as theoretical frame work which posits that individuals derive a sense of identity and self-esteem from their membership in social groups, to explain how group membership shapes attitudes and behaviors in the electoral process. The paper argues that while identity-based mobilization may provide short-term electoral gains for some politicians, it undermines the principles of inclusivity and diversity that are essential for a thriving democracy. The impact of identity politics on the Nigerian electoral process is not always positive, as ethnic and religious identities have often been used to mobilize violence and undermine the democratic process. Furthermore, the use of identity politics in political discourse can lead to the exclusion of certain groups and the formation of polarized and divided communities. The study found that in the 2019 presidential election, ethnic and religious identities played a significant role in determining voting patterns. The study also found that voters were more likely to support candidates who they perceived as representing their group's interests. These findings are consistent with the predictions of SIT, which posits that group membership plays a crucial role in shaping attitudes and behaviors. The paper highlights the need for political parties and candidates to focus on critical issues such as economic development and security, rather than relying on ethnic and religious identities to mobilize voters. It is also essential to promote intergroup dialogue and cooperation to foster national unity and social cohesion. Ultimately, the study emphasizes the need for a more nuanced and inclusive approach to politics that recognizes the division and polarization of diversity of identities and interests in Nigeria. The study recommends that political leaders, civil society organizations, and the media should encourage an inclusive political discourse that emphasizes the importance of unity and cooperation over
Impacts of the Russian – Ukraine conflict on Food Security in Africa
Authors: Zainab Peterside
Published: June 2023

The issue of food security has remained one of the major challenges in Nigeria, Africa and the world today and this cannot be over emphasized. Africa’s population have long been suffering from hunger due to an alarming rate of dwindling land and water resources as well as harsh climatic and natural conditions that has resulted in food insecurity. The objective of this paper is on the impact of the ongoing Russia – Ukraine conflict on food security in Africa. The paper posits that the inability of the continent to provide adequate food for its citizens has exposed it to the negative impact of the conflict. Thus, efforts by successive governments and institutions at achieving food security on the continent has not yielded the desired results which is evident in hunger, malnutrition and inadequate supply of basic food staples that pervade the continent. The study adopts descriptive and historical methodology and secondary data as evidence and anchors it analysis on the realist theory. Findings revealed that the impacts of the conflicts on food security in Africa is quiet severe since about 80 per cent of the continents food is dependent on food import. The paper therefore recommends that the governments and regional leaders must provide all the necessary funding, modern technology and infrastructure needed to achieve food security for the continent. Again, the global community must also employ diplomacy to bring the conflict to an end for the sake of humanity since both countries are global food producers.
Legislative Violence and Underdevelopment in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic: Ontological Cousins
Authors: Alozie Chukwunyere
Published: June 2023

Since the Fourth Republic, physical fights and other aggressive behaviors have remained constant features of the legislature. The lawmakers have punched, kicked and injured each other; shattered glasses, upturned tables and chairs, and torn their clothes. This condemnable act directly translates to bad governance, widespread corruption, poverty, cronyism and prebendalism across the country. But then, the big question has been what factors are responsible for legislative violence and what are the impacts in the Nigerian society? Against this background, the paper examined legislative violence and its impact on sustainable development in Nigeria. Using the survey descriptive and library research method, the paper revealed that legislative violence is a symptom of imbalance of power between the executive and the legislature. It recommended that the legislature should extricate itself from the self-imposed servants of anti-democratic political merchants whose stock-in-trade is the commercialization of politics and politicization of the legislature. It concluded that the legislature should tame the savages of man and build superb institutions and establish state-of-the-art benchmarks that will serve as touchstone and springboard to economic prosperity, political stability and descent society.