bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of N-formyl peptide receptor 2 in germinal matrix hemorrhage: an intrinsic review of a hematoma resolving pathway
Authors: Flores Jerry , Tang Jiping
Published: July 2023

Germinal matrix hemorrhage is one of the leading causes of morbidity, mortality, and acquired infantile hydrocephalus in preterm infants in the United States, with little progress made in its clinical management. Blood clots have been shown to elicit secondary brain injury after germinal matrix hemorrhage, by disrupting normal cerebrospinal fluid circulation and absorption after germinal matrix hemorrhage causing post-hemorrhagic hydrocephalus development. Current evidence suggests that rapid hematoma resolution is necessary to improve neurological outcomes after hemorrhagic stroke. Various articles have demonstrated the beneficial effects of stimulating the polarization of microglia cells into the M2 phenotype, as it has been suggested that they play an essential role in the rapid phagocytosis of the blood clot after hemorrhagic models of stroke. N-formyl peptide receptor 2 (FPR2), a G-protein-coupled receptor, has been shown to be neuroprotective after stroke. FPR2 activation has been associated with the upregulation of phagocytic macrophage clearance, yet its mechanism has not been fully explored. Recent literature suggests that FPR2 may play a role in the stimulation of scavenger receptor CD36. Scavenger receptor CD36 plays a vital role in microglia phagocytic blood clot clearance after germinal matrix hemorrhage. FPR2 has been shown to phosphorylate extracellular-signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), which then promotes the transcription of the dual-specificity protein phosphatase 1 (DUSP1) gene. In this review, we present an intrinsic outline of the main components involved in FPR2 stimulation and hematoma resolution after germinal matrix hemorrhage.
Lung Cancer Treatment in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Authors: Zhang Chu-Chu , Liu Su-Ying , Liu Jie , Yang Pei-Ying , Lin Hong-Sheng , Zhang Ying
Published: July 2023

Objective:

This article discusses the following aspects, including the history of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in the treatment of lung cancer, the breakthrough in the theory of TCM in treatment of lung cancer, clinical study of TCM in treating lung cancer, microscientific interpretation of TCM treatment for lung cancer and the prospect of TCM in treating lung cancer.

Materials and Methods:

In this paper, through a systematic search, combing traditional Chinese medicine prevention and treatment of lung cancer ancient books and modern literature.

Results:

A series of large sample and multi-centered clinical studies have proved that TCM comprehensive treatment significantly improves the clinical efficacy for lung cancer. “TCM treatment system for non-small cell lung cancer” based on staged and standardized integration of TCM and Western medicine has been well developed and popularized in practice. Furthermore, in virtue of the international cooperation platform established by the National Cancer Institute of the United States, the scientific connotation of TCM in the prevention and treatment of lung cancer is systematically and deeply studied, thereby promoting the research and development of new Chinese drugs for lung cancer.

Conclusions:

Nowadays, TCM has realized a landmark breakthrough in treating lung cancer, bringing benefits to all lung cancer patients.
Endometrial cancer risk factors, treatment, and survival outcomes as per the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) - European Society of Gynaecological Oncology (ESGO) - European Society for Radiotherapy and Oncology (ESTRO) risk groups and International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) staging: An experience from developing world
Authors: Gupta Nidhi , Pandey Awadhesh , Dimri Kislay , Sehgal Alka , Bhagat Ranjeev , Suraj  , Gill Gurbir
Published: July 2023

Introduction:

There is limited data on endometrial cancer from developing countries. The risk groups as defined by the ESMO-ESGO-ESTRO and their recommendations for adjuvant treatment have redefined the management protocols. In this retrospective analysis, the outcomes are assessed in the light of the new risk groups and FIGO staging.

Material Methods:

One hundred and two patients of endometrial cancer reporting to the Department of Radiation Oncology from 2015 to 2019 were analysed retrospectively. Patients were stratified as per the ESMO-ESGO-ESTRO risk groups and FIGO staging. Patients were analysed for demographic profile, histopathology details, FIGO stage, treatment modalities received as per the ESMO-ESGO-ESTRO risk groups and the outcomes in terms of disease free survival and overall survival.

Results:

A total of 102 patients were analysed. The mean age at presentation was 57.7 years. Seventy four percent (74.41%) were stage I patients, 14.7 % were stage II, 8.8% were stage III and remaining 2% were stage IV. The mean disease free survival for the patients in FIGO stage I, II, III and IV were found to be 63.5 (59.9 – 67) months, 60.5 (54.2 – 66.9) months, 30.9 (21.5 – 40.2) months and 15.4 (7.8 – 23.0) months respectively. The 5-year overall survival of patients in Stage I was 90.3%. The 3-year mortality of Stage III patients was 58.3%. While there was no mortality observed among Stage II patients, none of the Stage IV patient survived beyond 20 months. The 5-year disease-free survival for patients in Low Risk (LR) group, Intermediate Risk (IR) group and High Risk (HR) group was found to be 91.3%, 90% and 87% respectively. None of the patient in High Intermediate Risk (HIR) group experienced progression of disease and 33.3% patients in advanced group were disease free at 2 years follow-up. The multivariate analysis showed that lymph node involvement is significantly associated with disease-free (p=0.03) and overall survival (p=0.04).

Conclusion:

Even in the developing world, majority of patients present in early stage with survival outcomes comparable to the West. FIGO stage and lymph node involvement continue to be the most important prognostic markers for disease outcomes.
Delineating and sparing the ileal conduit in adjuvant radiotherapy for bladder cancer with modulated radiotherapy
Authors: Goyal Shikha , Vias Poorva , Periasamy Kannan , Madan Renu , Trivedi Gaurav , Devana Sudheer Kumar , Prashar Himani , Khosla Divya
Published: July 2023

Purpose:

We undertook a prospective planning study to describe the delineation of ileal conduit (IC) loop on radiotherapy planning computed tomography (RTP CT) scan as an organ at risk (OAR) and its sparing using volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) during adjuvant irradiation of bladder malignancies.

Materials and Methods:

Fifteen patients with bladder malignancy needing adjuvant radiotherapy postoperatively and having normal renal function underwent delayed phase RTP CT from June 2020 to March 2021, with certain modifications (Foley’s catheter through stoma, additional delayed scans). We identified the course of ureters, external stoma, IC, and uretero-ileal (right and left) anastomotic sites. VMAT plans were generated.

Results:

A step-by-step description is given. Genitourinary OARs include kidneys, ureters, uretero-ileal anastomoses, and IC. The contrast on delayed scan opacifies ureters and IC. IC can be seen three-dimensionally as a structure with two fixed ends (blind proximal end anterior to the right sacroiliac joint and the open distal end over the right anterior abdominal wall in parasagittal location) and a 15–20 cm hanging intraabdominal loop that lies adjacent to the right iliac vessels. For prescription doses (PD) of 50.4 gray and 54 gray, respectively, VMAT plan achieved IC dose maximum to less than PD and V50 lower than 10 cc. Stoma sparing traditionally used as a surrogate for IC sparing is insufficient due to the variable intraabdominal location of IC loop.

Conclusions:

Delineation of IC as an OAR is feasible with slight modifications in the RTP protocols. VMAT (or other forms of intensity modulated radiation therapy) can help IC sparing and should be considered when it lies in close proximity to target volumes and the risk of additional morbidity is considerable.
Satisfaction among patients seeking services at an urban health training center during the COVID-19 pandemic in South Delhi, India
Authors: Das Aritrik , Bhandari Yukti , Singh Suraj P. , Sharma Priyanka , Kumar Mukesh , Khongsit Aereosonva , Khokhar Anita , Tiwari Poornima , Pardeshi Geeta
Published: July 2023

ABSTRACT

Background:

The COVID-19 pandemic has posed challenges to the provision of routine health services. As we continue providing non-COVID services, it is essential that the community perceives them to be satisfactory and safe to ensure optimum uptake. The objective of the study was to determine the satisfaction and perceived safety among patients availing services at an urban health training center (UHTC) during the COVID-19 pandemic in South Delhi.

Methods:

UHTC, Aliganj caters to a population of over 6000, in an urbanized village of South Delhi. A pre-designed, semi-structured questionnaire incorporating the North Indian OPD Satisfaction Scale along with questions on sociodemographic details and perception of safety was used. Systematic random sampling was used to select the patients from the study population which included those above 18 years attending UHTC from November–December 2020. Exit interviews were done by a trained independent interviewer to reduce bias. Data were analyzed in SPSS using Chi-square and Fisher’s Exact tests.

Results:

Out of 218 patients, 161 (73.7%) were satisfied, 174 (79.8%) felt safe to visit UHTC during the pandemic and 143 (65.6%) felt both satisfied and safe. Patients were dissatisfied with screening for COVID-19 (29.5%), amenities (47.1%), cleanliness (51.8%), and waiting and registration (62.9%).

Conclusion:

The majority of patients were satisfied and found the UHTC services safe. A large proportion of patients found location, doctor–patient interaction, and COVID-appropriate behavior at the center to be satisfactory, but there was scope to improve waiting and registration, cleanliness, and effectiveness of screening for COVID.
Short-term multifactorial intervention (STEMI): An approach using structured blood glucose monitoring (BGM) and conventional therapies in persons with diabetes
Authors: Zelada Henry , Recklein Carol L. , McGill Janet B.
Published: July 2023

ABSTRACT

Background:

Achieving glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) targets have been shown to reduce long-term microvascular complications of diabetes; however, suboptimal glucose control is common. We tested whether glucose control could be improved within 8 weeks by employing structured blood glucose monitoring (BGM) qid in addition to seven times per day prior to visits for diabetes education and medication management that occurred every 2–4 weeks.

Methods:

This single-center, prospective study was conducted on 78 adults with either type 1 diabetes (T1D) or type 2 diabetes (T2D), HbA1c >8%, and serum creatinine (sCr) <2.0 mg/dl. HbA1c was checked at baseline, Week 2, Week 4, and at Week 8. Patients were evaluated by a physician and a certified diabetes educator (CDE) at baseline, Week 2, and Week 4 for treatment adjustments and lifestyle advice based on a review of BGM done qid plus 7-point profiles conducted before Weeks 2, 4, and 8. Study outcomes were change in HbA1c from baseline to Week 8 and change in mean glucose on the 7-point profile from Week 2 to Week 8. These were compared using one-way repeated measures ANOVA.

Results:

Of the 78 patients, 64.1% had T2D, 50% were women, and 72% were Caucasian. Mean age (±SD) was 51.3.5 ± 11.1 years, and median diabetes duration was 9 (5–17) years. The percentage of patients using insulin increased from 58.9% at baseline to 67.9% at Week 8. The mean (±SD) HbA1c was 9.53% (±1.71) at baseline, declined -1.38% from baseline to week 8 (CI -1.62 to -0.14, P < 0.001). The mean (±SD) glucose on the 7-point profile was 187 (±52) mg/dl at Week 2, and 157 (±5) mg/dl at Week 8. (P < 0.01).

Conclusions:

An intensive glucose optimization program using structured BGM qid plus 7-point profiles, diabetes education, and conventional anti-diabetic therapies was successful in reducing HbA1c by 1.38% over 8 weeks in patients with poor glucose control.
Psychiatric morbidities among patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus attending outpatient department in a rural area of North India
Authors: Majeed Mudassir , Gupta Rajiv K. , Kumari Rashmi , Langer Bhavna , Mir Mehak T. , Mahajan Richa , Gupta Riya , Bala Jyoti , Manhas Sakshi , Sumaira
Published: July 2023

ABSTRACT

Background:

Both diabetes mellitus and psychiatric morbidities are widely prevalent diseases which show a discerning upward trend globally. Coexistence of diabetes and psychiatric morbidities usually manifests as impaired quality of life and poor treatment adherence.

Objectives:

The study aimed to estimate the prevalence of psychiatric morbidities among rural diabetic patients and to determine their association with different variables.

Methodology:

The present cross-sectional study was conducted in CHC of Rural Health Block attached with PG Department of Community Medicine GMC (Government Medical College) Jammu. The eligible diabetic patients attending medical outpatient department services were enrolled using a consecutive sampling method. DAS scale was used to assess psychiatric morbidity among the study subjects.

Results:

The findings revealed that the prevalence of psychiatric morbidity in the study participants was 38.9%, 68.5% and 25.64% for depression, anxiety and stress, respectively. Psychiatric morbidities were slightly higher in female patients and were significantly associated with age, marital status, sedentary lifestyle, history of substance abuse, duration of diabetes, presence of complications and underlying morbidities (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

The prevalence of anxiety and depression among rural diabetic patients was found to be quite high. Diabetic patients need thorough screening for psychiatric evaluation, and there is an urgent need for psychiatric counselling at regular intervals.
Assessment of emotional stress among patients suffering from obstructive sleep apnea: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Shyamsukha Bhawna , Nimonkar Sharayu V. , Belkhode Vikram M. , Paul Priyanka , Godbole Surekha
Published: July 2023

ABSTRACT

Background:

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a sleep disorder in which the upper airway is partially or completely blocked during sleep. As a result, sleep arousal and arterial oxygen saturation are reduced. According to the epidemiological survey, OAS is relatively common among people that may be associated with psychiatric illnesses.

Objectives:

The primary objective was to evaluate the stress level among patients suffering from OSA. The secondary objective was to compare the gender preference for stress among patients suffering from OSA.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study, approved by the Institutional Ethics Committee, was performed to assess emotional stress among patients suffering from OSA. The study involved 20 participants diagnosed with OSA and reported to the Respiratory Department. The stress levels of the study participants were evaluated with a validated, Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) questionnaire given by the American Sociological Association (ASA).

Result:

The stress levels presented by the study participants showed that 40% (n = 8) subjects had moderate stress and 60% (n = 12) had severe stress and 30.3% of females depicted emotional stress and 26.2% of males for the same.

Conclusion:

There is a high psychological stress level among patients suffering from OSA. The females had higher predictions when compared to males. Such patients should be offered an intervention program aimed at stress management to enhance their quality of life.
Assessment of quality of routine immunization in rural areas of Doiwala Block, Dehradun
Authors: Kumar Prakash , Katre Rohit , Singh Pallavi , Singh Mahendra , Saxena Vartika
Published: July 2023

ABSTRACT

Background:

India initiated Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) in 1978 and was renamed to Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) in 1985 and subsequently integrated with National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) in 2005. Many studies have shown that health workers involved in immunization are more concerned towards coverage than the quality of immunization services provided.

Aims and Objectives:

This study aimed to assess the quality of routine immunization services in rural areas of Doiwala Block of Dehradun, Uttarakhand.

Material and Methods:

It was a cross-sectional study conducted for a duration of one year. Study participants included Auxillary Nurse Midwives (ANMs), Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs), Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) and parents/caregivers of children aged 12–23 months residing in that area who had received immunization services on the day of the survey. Institutional ethics committee clearance was obtained before the start of the study. A P value of <0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

Results:

ASHAs at two centres in low-performing centres had never undergone any training for routine immunization but there was no statistically significant difference found between high and low-performing centres (P > 0.05). The most common vaccine not available was the Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) vaccine. The majority of clients at both high (92%) and low-performing centres (96%) said that they never waited for at least 30 min post-vaccination at the vaccination site for observation.

Conclusion:

The study highlights that most of the ANMs at the immunization centre were having good knowledge and were adequately trained for maintaining cold chains at session sites.
Do current concepts of One Health suffer from the physics envy
Authors: Raina Sunil K. , Kumar Raman
Published: July 2023

ABSTRACT

The current models of One Health appear to be suffering from a elevated emphasis on a small area of interface involving humans, environment and animals. This may largely be because of an extension of our understanding of physical science to biological world, which, though is far more complexer.
Impact of ‘Get it to 100%’, a hepatitis B vaccination campaign amongst the health-care workers: A 5-year multimodal interventional study in a large tertiary care public sector teaching hospital, India
Authors: Priyadarshi Ketan , Rajshekar Deepashree , Madigubba Haritha , Dhodapkar Rahul , Dhandapani Sarumathi , Sastry Apurba Sankar
Published: July 2023

Background:

The World Health Organization recommends administering the hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccine at least for high-risk adults including health-care workers (HCWs). Active intervention through hospital-wide vaccination campaign may be necessary to augment the vaccine coverage, instead of merely having a hospital vaccination policy.

Materials and Methods:

The study was an interventional type, where hepatitis B vaccination campaign ‘Get it to 100%’ was implemented in a tertiary care hospital for 5 years, through multimodal interventions. Subsequently, the impact of hospital-wide HBV vaccination campaign to improve compliance amongst HCWs was evaluated.

Results:

HCWs being ‘vaccinated’ were increased from 45.6% (4398) to 84.2% (8126); not-vaccinated reduced from 54.4% (5253) to 15.8% (1525) and HCWs protected against HBV improved from 2.5% (240) to 50.2% (4843) with significant yearly increase. Doctors (63.9%), followed by nurses (57.7%) were more compliant, while defaulters were observed maximum for other staff (78.8%) and housekeeping staff (64.5%).

Discussion:

The hospital infection control and prevention unit at our institute was earmarked as designated centre for HBV vaccination campaign, which was instrumental in implementing the various components of the multimodal interventions such as making the resources (vaccines and titre testing) available free-of-cost, mandatory induction vaccination of HCWs at the timing of joining, educational intervention and conducting several vaccination camps such as department-specific on-site camps and student camps (at the time of joining).

Conclusions:

The authors urge to implementation of a mandatory national policy for HBV immunisation amongst HCWs, which will result in their protection from contracting the virus from occupational exposures.
Clinicoradiological correlation of Endotracheal secretion culture in each case of suspected VAP: a need of the present to combat drug-resistance
Authors: Vishwakarma Sumit , Gupta Munesh Kumar , Yadav Ghanshyam , Das Badri Prasad , Nayak Sudhansu Sekhar
Published: July 2023

Background:

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) in intensive care unit (ICU)-admitted patients is a life-threatening event, caused by a diverse range of microbes having varied susceptibility to different classes of antibiotics.

Materials and Methods:

We enrolled patients admitted in trauma ICU on mechanical ventilation for >48 h. Modified clinical pulmonary infection score (≥6) having a significant bacterial count (≥105 cfu/ml) in endotracheal (ET) secretions was used to diagnose VAP. Subsequently, we did antibiotic susceptibility testing by the modified Kirby–Bauer method, and the results were interpreted per Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines.

Results:

We enrolled 389 patients in this study. Amongst these, we noted VAP events in 87 patients with an incidence of 15.62/1000 days of ventilators. Gram-negative rods were the predominant microbes causing VAP. Acinetobacter
baumannii-calcoaceticus
complex (n = 30) followed by Klebsiella
pneumoniae (n = 27) and Pseudomonas
aeruginosa (n = 19) was the predominant isolate. All nine isolated Staphylococcus aureus strains were methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA). About 48.72% (38/78) of the Gram-negative microbes were meropenem sensitive. All strains of A. baumanii and P. aeruginosa were sensitive to polymyxin B, whereas all isolated MRSA strains were sensitive to vancomycin and linezolid. In addition, drug-resistant epidemiological important bacterial pathogens were also isolated from ET secretions.

Conclusion:

VAP is caused by a diverse group of multidrug-resistant microorganisms; however, drug-resistant microbes also colonise the in situ ET tubes. Therefore, accurate diagnosis of VAP and its differentiation from ET tube colonisation is a need of present times as appropriate treatment of actual VAP cases will reduce the burden of drug-resistant microbes in ICU settings.
An algorithm-based active cleansing protocol can reduce the bowel preparation time for screening colonoscopy: A propensity score matching study
Authors: Ishibashi Fumiaki , Suzuki Sho , Tanaka Ryu , Kobayashi Konomi , Kawakami Tomohiro , Nagai Mizuki , Mochida Kentaro , Morishita Tetsuo
Published: July 2023

Background:

Methods that minimize the time for on-site bowel preparation before colonoscopy are needed. We prospectively validated that a novel algorithm-based active cleansing (ABAC) protocol could reduce the time for preparation compared with the conventional method.

Methods:

This was an open-label, multicenter, prospective comparative study from April to October 2021. The study compared the bowel preparation time for colonoscopy between patients instructed with the ABAC protocol and control groups. Patients in the ABAC protocol group as well as the control group were administered 2000 mL of polyethylene glycol (PEG) within 2 hours. After the first two hours, patients in the protocol group voluntarily took 300 ml of the solution without the instruction of nursing staff depending on the number of defecations in the first 2 hours. The intervention and control groups were adjusted for background characteristics by propensity score matching (PSM).

Results:

After adjustment by PSM, 174 patients in each of the two groups were included in the final analysis. In the intention-to-treat analysis, the preparation time was significantly shorter in the intervention group than that in the control group (126.3 ± 32.7 min vs. 144.9 ± 39.9 min, P = 0.018). The proportion of additional PEG intake was significantly higher in the intervention group (16 [9.2%] vs. 6 [3.4%], P = 0.047). The number of defecations was also higher in the intervention group than in the control group (7.8 ± 2.5 vs. 6.3 ± 2.2, P = 0.001).

Conclusions:

Simple active instruction protocol is effective to reduce on-site bowel preparation time and nursing staff labor for colonoscopy.
Effect of alkaline treatment with sodium hydroxide on wettability and bioactivity of some commercial dental implants
Authors: Morad Mohamed S. , El-Safty Samy , Elbahrawy Eman
Published: July 2023

Aim/Objectives

The aim of this study was conducted to evaluate the effect of NaOH alkaline treatment on wettability and bioactivity of some commercial dental implants.

Background

The surface of titanium dental implants plays an important role in their success. Wettability is one of the crucial surface characteristics for osseointegration.

Methods

In this study, three commercial titanium dental implants are grouped by their types into 3 groups (n=10). Each group is divided into 2 subgroups (n=5) according to alkaline treatment. Each experimental specimen is immersed in 5 mL of 5M NaOH solution for 24h at 60°C, then put in an incubator for 24 h to dry at 40°C. All specimens are subjected to surface wettability test through measuring static contact angle (CA) by sessile drop technique and in vitro bioactivity test through immersion into a simulated body fluid (SBF) at 37°C and 7.4p H for 7 days. Then characterized by Scanning Electron Microscope and Energy Dispersive X-ray. Student t-test is used for pair-wise comparisons. The significance level is set at P≤0.05.

Results/Conclusions

The alkaline surface treatment of Ti dental implants significantly enhances their surface wettability and bioactivity by formation of a porous network structure at a nano scale from sodium titanate hydrogel layer on the surface.
Implications of the COVID-19 vaccine in dental practice of internship dentists at Kafr El-Sheikh University
Authors: Sabry Marwa M. , Elgendy Ahmed AM
Published: July 2023

Background:

Concerns regarding coronavirus transmission in dentistry practices have been extensively expressed across the world compared with other vocations. Dentistry is the highest at-risk for the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 because of the nature of the dental operations and the dental team's proximity to patients.

Aim

The aim of the study was to assess dental practice of internships dentists at Kafr El-Sheikh University before and after Corona virus (COVID) vaccine availability and to reassess dental practice of them again after providing an educational program about COVID vaccine.

Methods

Two stages: a cohort study (a prospective study) then an interventional study (one group pretest–posttest design). A total of 217 internship dentists were selected by the systematic random technique. All internships' dentists selected in the practice study will be included in the intervention study.

Results

No statistically significant difference in other aspects of dental practice before and after vaccine availability; if practice closed/reduced to urgent procedures only. There was a statistical significance in dentists' perception of the COVID-19 vaccine before and after health educational program intervention.

Conclusion

Despite the fact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant negative impact on dentists and dental practice in Egypt, the COVID vaccine assisted dentists in overcoming the pandemic's long-term effects on their profession's future.
Perception of undergraduate dental students regarding technology-based learning during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: El Bayoumi Mohamed H. , Mahmoud Hossam M.
Published: July 2023

Objectives

To assess the satisfaction and attitude of undergraduate dental students in Tanta University Egypt, towards different aspects of technology based (TB) learning during the pandemic outbreak of COVID-19.

Background

COVID-19 pandemic has led governments and institutions to take draconian measures with regards to the ongoing education. In an attempt to balance the safeguarding of students, faculty members, and patients, while keeping education process ongoing, universities were forced to adopt distance education as an alternative to classical face to face education.

Participants and methods

An observational cross-sectional study was carried on 675 undergraduate students of Faculty of Dentistry, Tanta University, Egypt.

Results

The result of the present study revealed that nearly 57% of the participant students expressed positive satisfaction of TB learning and 70% expressed positive attitude. The current work highlighted that satisfaction and positive attitude towards TB learning are positively associated with gender, grade, computer skills and previous experiences of online learning.

Conclusion

Based on the result of the present work, it is clear that improving internet infrastructures, e- learning courses and teaching staff members become a mandatory to face challenges of COVID-19 and similar crises that may happen in the future.
Effect of cements and beverages on ceramics translucency
Authors: Micheal Monica H. , Korsel Amany M. , Hasaneen Fatma A.
Published: July 2023

Aim

To measure translucency of two ceramic materials with different cements and beverages, and compare them to each other.

Settings and design

In vitro comparative study.

Materials and methods

One hundred twenty ceramic discs (10 mm diameter, 0.5 mm thickness) from IPS e-max press (n = 60) and Celtra press (n = 60), shade A2 LT were assessed. Two cements [Rely X Ultimate resin cement (RC)] and [Nexus resin-modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC)] applied to ceramic discs with 0.2 mm thickness through custom-made Teflon mold. Specimens were immersed in two beverages (tea and cola) for 4 h/day for 1 week at room temperature. Translucency parameter (TP) of ceramic discs was measured according to CIE L*a*b* system.

Statistical analysis used

One-way analysis of variance and Tukey's post-hoc test.

Results

IPS e-max press showed higher TP values than Celtra press. Discs cemented with RC had higher TP values than those cemented with RMGIC. TP values decreased after immersion in both beverages, with higher TP values to those immersed in cola than those immersed in tea.

Conclusion

IPS e-max press was more translucent than Celtra press A2LT discs. RC resin cement could be used to cement veneers with a high final esthetic outcome.
Root canal therapy of maxillary first molar with seven canals diagnosed using cone beam computed tomography – a case report
Authors: Rashmi Saini , Kumar Saini V.
Published: July 2023

For successful clinical outcomes in endodontics, a thorough knowledge of root canal morphology, adequate clinical and radiographic assessment, and the use of newer diagnostic aids are required. This case report describes the diagnosis and endodontic management of a three-rooted left maxillary first molar which had three roots and seven canals (MB1, MB2, MB3, DB1, DB2, MP, and DP). This unusual morphology of the maxillary first molar was confirmed using a cone-beam computed tomography scan. This article discusses the morphology of the maxillary first molar and how to successfully diagnose and negotiate the extra canals using the most up-to-date techniques.
The Global Land Squeeze: Managing the Growing Competition for Land
Authors: Searchinger Tim , Peng Liqing , Zionts Jessica , Waite Richard
Published: July 2023

In this report, WRI researchers explore how rising demand for food, wood and shelter is squeezing land that’s needed for storing carbon and protecting biodiversity. This research uses new modeling to give a true global picture of the carbon opportunity costs for land use and proposes a four-pronged approach–produce, protect, reduce, restore–for sustainably managing the world’s finite land.
Spiritual Health in Association with the Emotional Intelligence among Teachers
Authors: Imran Hamna , Shabir Saba
Published: July 2023

Education system has been changing throughout the world. There is need to have a focus on the ways or variables that have an impact on teachers or educational institutes. Spiritual health has been previously studied with respect to health or nursing domains. However, concept of spiritual health has not been explained much with respect to educational institutes. The present study investigated the relationship between the spiritual health and emotional intelligence among teachers. 250 participants (125 males and 125 females) were approached by multistage sampling. Cross sectional research design was employed. The data were collected using two questionnaires: Brief Emotional Intelligence Scale (BEIS-10) and Spiritual Health Assessment Scale (SHAS). The data was analyzed through Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. Results revealed that spiritual health has significant relationship with emotional intelligence. Analysis of gender differences revealed that females are more spiritually healthy as compared to males while emotional intelligence was not significantly different across genders. The study concluded that high spiritual health has been related to the emotional intelligence of teachers which is essential to improve the students’ academic progress. Teachers are not only delivering knowledge, rather they also learn on regular basis, having good spiritual health helps them to manage emotions appropriately which in turn enhances their learning.
An Analysis on How Personality Traits Influence Acculturation and Cross-Cultural Adaptation for International Students
Authors: Chen Nuolin , Zhang Yi
Published: July 2023

Studying abroad become popular nowadays. However, having a new life in a different place and learning diverse cultures are difficult for most international students. It is important to pay attention to the mental health and level of acculturation of overseas students. This paper aims to survey how personality traits in the domain of Big Five Personality Traits (openness agreeableness neuroticism extraversion and self-esteem) affect the acculturation of international students and the relationship between acculturation and cross-cultural adjustment. In this paper, the authors suggested that these 5 characteristics of personality do influence the students who study abroad in many aspects of their life such as academic performance, mental health, etc. In addition, the investigation carried out by the authors has revealed that the level of acculturation and personality traits can predict the level of cross-cultural adjustment. How to facilitate the acculturation of overseas students become a future task that needs to be explored in the future. The findings of this paper suggest that it is necessary for colleges to arrange some classes to strengthen students’ ability to use appropriate coping strategies and recommend social networking tools to students.
Fossil Fuel Subsidy Inventories vs. Net Carbon Prices
Authors: Böhm Jens , Peterson Sonja
Published: July 2023

Price incentives for reducing fossil fuel related carbon emissions are an important component of effective and efficient climate policy. Current incentives stem from a mixture of energy taxes and carbon pricing (incentivizing less emissions) and diverse support measures for fossil fuels (incentivizing more emissions). We develop a net carbon price indicator that complements existing subsidy and carbon pricing indicators. It can be calculated on different aggregation levels and compared across countries. We calculate the different components and our aggregate indicator for the year 2018 and for eight countries including the worlds’ six largest emitters. Our analysis reveals large differences in net carbon prices across countries and across sectors within countries. We argue that the sectoral differences can inform about adequate national policy reforms while the aggregate national indicator can be useful for international negotiations about comparable national efforts.
Os impactos da pandemia em índices financeiros da indústria de Manaus no setor de duas rodas
Authors: Ramírez Yunier Sarmiento , Ladislau Robert Charles Augutinho , Ruano Joycet Ramirez , Da Silva Samantha Magalhães , Freitas Jocielen Bezerra , Pacheco Monike Tavares , Cutiño Yadira Pérez
Published: July 2023

Tendo em vista que com o agravamento da pandemia no mundo, as indústrias viveram com uma nova realidade, o presente estudo trata sobre os impactos da pandemia em índices da indústria de Manaus no setor de duas rodas, a fim de avaliar esse impacto sobre as atividades inerentes ao setor de duas rodas no Polo Industrial de Manaus. Para tanto, foi necessário descrever os reflexos da paralisação das atividades no Polo Industrial de Manaus, a análise de índices financeiros e a variação de alguns indicadores da industria durante três anos, de 2019 a 2021. Realizou-se, então, uma pesquisa quanto a seu objetivo, é classificada como exploratória, quanto ao procedimento técnico tem-se uma pesquisa do tipo bibliográfica e quanto à abordagem do problema tem cunho quanti-qualitativa. Diante disso, verificou-se que os setores uniram-se em prol de medidas econômicas para amenizar os impactos da pandemia, o setor de duas rodas obteve índices satisfatório, durante esse três anos vem em uma crescente, onde foi possível concluir que o setor de duas rodas foi impactado de forma positiva durante esse período.
The ammonoids from the Gattendorfia Limestone of Oberrödinghausen (Early Carboniferous; Rhenish Mountains, Germany)
Authors: Korn Dieter , Weyer Dieter
Published: July 2023

The railway cutting near Oberrödinghausen at the northern margin of the Rhenish Mountains is the cardinal section for the investigation of Early Tournaisian (Early Carboniferous; Mississippian) ammonoids. The ammonoids from the Hangenberg Limestone (= Gattendorfia Limestone) of this and neighbouring outcrops are revised here, using the historical collections as well as undescribed new material. The ammonoid assemblages are composed of a total of 67 species, which occur in four successive ammonoid zones. The assemblages are composed of predominant prionoceratids (Order Goniatitina) with the twenty genera Mimimitoceras (two species), Globimitoceras (one species), Paragattendorfia (two species), Kornia (three species), Stockumites (eleven species), Acutimitoceras (two species), Costimitoceras (one species), Nicimitoceras (four species), Imitoceras (one species), Voehringerites (one species), Gattendorfia (eight species), Zadelsdorfia (two species), Kazakhstania (one species), Gattenpleura (one species), Weyerella (three species), Hasselbachia (three species), Paprothites (five species), Pseudarietites (three species), Rodingites (two species), Paralytoceras (one species) as well as subordinate eocanitids (Order Prolecanitida) with the genera Eocanites (eight species) and Nomismocanites (one species). The new genera Rodingites gen. nov. and Nomismocanites gen. nov. as well as the new species Mimimitoceras perditum sp. nov., Kornia fibula sp. nov., Kornia acia sp. nov., Stockumites parallelus sp. nov., Stockumites voehringeri sp. nov., Acutimitoceras ucatum sp. nov., Acutimitoceras paracutum sp. nov., Imitoceras initium sp. nov., Gattendorfia rhenana sp. nov., Gattendorfia bella sp. nov., Gattendorfia valdevoluta sp. nov., Gattendorfia schmidti sp. nov., Gattendorfia corpulenta sp. nov., Gattendorfia immodica sp. nov., Zadelsdorfia oblita sp. nov., Weyerella lenis sp. nov., Hasselbachia erronea sp. nov., Paprothites beckeri sp. nov., Paprothites kullmanni sp. nov., Eocanites delicatus sp. nov. and Nomismocanites raritas gen. et sp. nov. are described from Oberrödinghausen. Mimimitoceras mina sp. nov., Stockumites marocensis sp. nov., Zadelsdorfia zana sp. nov. and Kazakhstania kana sp. nov. are newly named for material from the Anti-Atlas of Morocco.
Challenges and Opportunities in Antimicrobial Stewardship in the American South: The Experience of the Kentucky Antimicrobial Stewardship Innovation Consortium (KASIC) Advisory Board
Authors: Moore Sarah E , Swingler Elena A , Johnson Wes M , Harting Julie A , Ross Ashley , Song Matthew , Venable Adele , Doyen Shaina , Cotner Sarah , Wilde Ashley M
Published: July 2023

The southern United States, including the Commonwealth of Kentucky has higher rates of antimicrobial use relative to the rest of the country. Antimicrobial stewardship experts discuss the state of antimicrobial use and explore stewardship issues and opportunities based on their practice experiences.
Sex-specific splicing occurs genome-wide during early Drosophila embryogenesis
Authors: Ray Mukulika , Conard Ashley Mae , Urban Jennifer , Mahableshwarkar Pranav , Aguilera Joseph , Huang Annie , Vaidyanathan Smriti , Larschan Erica
Published: July 2023

Sex-specific splicing is an essential process that regulates sex determination and drives sexual dimorphism. Yet, how early in development widespread sex-specific transcript diversity occurs was unknown because it had yet to be studied at the genome-wide level. We use the powerful Drosophila model to show that widespread sex-specific transcript diversity occurs early in development, concurrent with zygotic genome activation. We also present a new pipeline called time2Splice to quantify changes in alternative splicing over time. Furthermore, we determine that one of the consequences of losing an essential maternally deposited pioneer factor called CLAMP (chromatin-linked adapter for MSL proteins) is altered sex-specific splicing of genes involved in diverse biological processes that drive development. Overall, we show that sex-specific differences in transcript diversity exist even at the earliest stages of development..
An Electric‐Magnetic Dual‐Gradient Composite Film Comprising MXene, Hollow Fe3O4, and Bacterial Cellulose for High‐Performance EMI Shielding and Infrared Camouflage
Authors: Liu Mengxin , Zhang Haoran , Huang Xinmeng , Zhang Ziyi , Zhang Kunlai , Chen Zhenwu , Zhou Jintang , Pan Lei
Published: January 2025

It is crucial to develop electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials with high shielding efficiency (SE) and reduced reflection to mitigate the secondary pollution caused by electromagnetic waves (EMWs). Herein, a novel multilayer assembly strategy inspired by the structure of “Turkish dessert—Baklava” is proposed to introduce magnetic hollow Fe3O4 nanospheres (HFO) and conductive MXene nanosheets into a bacterial cellulose (BC) network. Through a layer‐by‐layer vacuum filtration approach, a composite BC/MXene/HFO film with a controllable electric‐magnetic dual‐gradient structure is achieved. The construction of electric‐magnetic dual gradients alleviates the impedance mismatch at the air‐film interface, resulting in reduced reflectivity toward EMWs, while the unique hollow structure of HFO facilitates the “absorption–reflection–reabsorption” process of EMWs. Consequently, the as‐prepared composite film (0.35 mm thickness) exhibits an extraordinary EMI SE of 67.6 dB and a reflection SE as low as 5.1 dB. Furthermore, it also demonstrates exceptional mechanical properties, efficient thermal management, and Joule heating capabilities, as well as remarkable passive and active infrared camouflage performances. This study offers an innovative approach to achieve less reflection and more absorption of EMWs, and expands the application scope of EMI shielding materials in precision electronics, aerospace, and military equipment fields.
Low‐Dimensional Structure Modulation in Ag8SnSe6 for Enhanced Thermoelectric Performance
Authors: Zhao Xueke , Li Mengyao , Jia Mochen , Fiedler Christine , Nan Bingfei , Yang Dongwen , Li Lei , Yuan Zicheng , Song Hongzhang , Liu Yu , Ibáñez Maria , Wang Ziyu , Shan Chongxin , Cabot Andreu
Published: January 2025

Ternary liquid‐like thermoelectric materials have garnered significant attention due to their ultra‐low lattice thermal conductivity. Among these, Ag8SnSe6 stands out for its exceptionally low sound velocity and thermal conductivity. However, the inherent poor electrical conductivity and suboptimal thermoelectric properties of Ag8SnSe6 necessitate further improvement. Here, a novel approach is initiated to enhance the thermoelectric properties of Ag8SnSe6 by combining low‐dimensionalization with intrinsic doping. For the first time, this work successfully synthesizes single‐phase Ag8SnSe6 nanocrystals, ≈10 nm in size, with the correct phase and composition using a robust and reliable colloidal method. This approach represents a significant improvement over previous reports on this material. Reducing the crystal domains of Ag8SnSe6 to the nanoscale induces quantum confinement effects, increasing the density of states near the Fermi surface. It also introduces additional grain boundaries, which lower the lattice thermal conductivity and simplify structural design. Moreover, incorporating small amounts of Sn nanopowder into the Ag8SnSe6 nanocrystals before consolidation further enhances the thermoelectric performance. Sn acts as a donor dopant, increasing the electronic concentration while at the same time improving their mobility by reducing interface barriers, thus significantly improving the material transport properties. Additionally, the presence of Sn leads to the formation of point defects, dislocations, and secondary phases, which increase phonon scattering and further reduce the thermal conductivity. Through this synergistic optimization, the figure of merit  shows a significant increase across a wide temperature range. Overall, a strategy is presented for the controlled preparation of Ag8SnSe6 nanocrystals, the decoupling of their electrical and thermal transport, and the practical application of this material to thermoelectric single‐leg modules.
Tongue Prick Bionic Angularly Adjustable Microneedles for Enhanced Scarless Wound Healing
Authors: Gan Ni , Li Xin , Wei Meng , Li Zhijie , Zhou Shu , Gao Bingbing
Published: January 2025

High‐tension site wounds are frequently accompanied by challenges associated with hypertrophic scarring. The key to achieving scar‐free healing is the creation of a mechanical environment conducive to scar‐free skin regeneration. Herein, simple rolling punctures are utilized on angle transform molds to develop cat tongue prick bionic angle‐adjustable microneedles (TPMNs) to maintain a firm grip on the periwound skin, thereby reducing tissue tension. The integration of TPMNs with triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) enables excellent conductive and triboelectric properties. The system can provide a stable spatial electric field around the wound to promote cell migration. As the microfluid reaches the TPMNs, the self‐driving force is enhanced by a unique angle design to control the microfluid flow rate. Sufficient evidence has shown that TPMNs expedite wound contraction and skin tissue regeneration while concurrently reducing scar formation in mouse trauma model experiments. The innovative TPMNs‐TENGs synergistically provides a highly functional platform for wound tension relief, which is suitable for scar treatment in this study and potentially extends to the construction and regulation of smart wearable devices.