bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Artificial Intelligence Assistive Tool for Radiotherapy Plan Evaluation Based on Analysis of Integral Dose
Authors: Rajurkar Shriram , Verma Teerthraj , Bhatt MLB , Mishra S P , Deshmukh P , Sargar D
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACT

Aim:

The aim of the present study is to propose an in-house developed artificial intelligence (AI) tool based on Python programming for the purpose of integral doses (IDs) calculation useful in plan evaluation in modern radiotherapy techniques.

Materials and Methods:

Retrospectively, curative radiotherapy plans of cancer head and neck planned with intensity-modulated radiation therapy techniques employing seven and nine photon beams of 6 MV, were included in this study. The derived dose-volume histogram data were analyzed for the calculation of ID for each of the contoured structures including high-risk planning target volume (HR-PTV) and surrounding normal structures using an in-house developed Python program.

Results:

In this study, variation of ID between nine-beam and seven-beam plans was calculated. It was found that the ID for HR-PTV volume was almost equal in both nine and seven beam plans with the percentage variation range 0.4%–1.4%, however, significant variation up to 14.4% in the ID of organ at risk was found. Furthermore, we utilized the standard deviation (SD) as a metric to assess the variability of the ID within the PTV and the surrounding normal tissues. The HR-PTV exhibited a low SD of 0.71, suggesting consistent ID patterns. In contrast, the organs at risk (OAR) exhibited noteworthy variations in SD values, with some reaching as high as 16.75. The SD was relatively elevated in the OAR in comparison to the HR-PTV. These elevated SD values within the OAR indicate significant dose variability across different patients.

Conclusion:

It is found that ID increases as the number of beams increases. The Python program used in this study for the calculation of ID, as an AI assistive tool for plan evaluation, can be run on the TPS or on a side-by-side computer which may be helpful in finalizing radiotherapy plans.
Comparison of single absorbable tacker vs. conventional method in fixating the mesh in bilateral inguinal hernia undergoing laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP): A randomized control trial study
Authors: Mir Mohammad Sadeghi Pouya , Naseri Amir Hosein , Shishegar Azita , Melali Hamid , Ashjaei Ali
Published: July 2024

Background:

The current study aims to investigate the superior mesh fixation method, single absorbable tacker versus conventional method, in patients undergoing bilateral inguinal hernia repair through the laparoscopic total abdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) approach.

Materials and Methods:

The current randomized clinical trial has been conducted on 81 patients undergoing bilateral hernia repair through TAPP. The patients were randomly assigned into one of the mesh fixation groups including single absorbable tacker (Group S) (n = 41) and conventional method (Group C) (n = 40). All patients were assessed during the hospital stay and 1 month postoperatively to assess the surgery-associated complications and days for return to daily activity. Eura-Hs questionnaire was applied to assess the quality of life (QOL) after hernia surgery during 12-month follow-up.

Results:

The duration of bilateral inguinal hernia operation (P = 0.067), postoperative urinary catheterization (P = 0.813), and hospital stay duration (P = 0.779) did not differ between the groups; whereas Group C significantly required a longer time for returning to daily activity (P < 0.001). Only a patient in Group C represented hematoma (P = 0.494). Seroma incidence was not statistically different between the two groups (P = 0.712). Postoperative pain was statistically less in Group S (P < 0.001 for all the assessments). Postoperative QOL within a year after hernia repair revealed an insignificant difference between the groups in general (P > 0.05); however, a pain subscale was significantly less in Group S (P = 0.002).

Conclusion:

Based on the findings of this study, a single absorbable tacker was generally superior to the conventional method considering its less pre- and postoperative complications. However, the two methods did not differ regarding 1-year follow-up QOL.
Computer-guided versus conventional arthrocentesis in treatment of anterior disc displacement of temporomandibular joint
Authors: Galhoum Mohamed A.I. , Saad Khalid A.E.-H. , Beder Rafic R. , Breshah Maram N.
Published: July 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to compare computer-guided arthrocentesis with conventional double puncture technique in the treatment of anterior disc displacement with reduction of the temporomandibular joint.

Patient and methods

16 adult patients were included in the study and were divided into two equal groups: group I: treated with guided arthrocentesis using ringer’s lactate solution and injection of hyaluronic acid, group II: treated with conventional double puncture technique of arthrocentesis using ringer’s lactate solution and injection of hyaluronic acid. Patients were evaluated clinically and radiographically preoperatively and postoperatively: clinically for evaluation of pain intensity, maximal mouth opening, and clicking at 1 week and 2 weeks and 1, 2, 3, and 6 months. Radiographically by MRI imaging at 3 and 6 months to determine any changes in the disc position and inflammatory changes within the joint.

Results

16 patients (13 females and 3 males), their ages ranged from 17 to 35 years the results of the clinical data including pain intensity, maximal mouth opening, and clicking presented with significant improvements of all outcomes from preoperative to 6 months postoperatively for group I when compared with group II. Radiographically MRI after 3 and 6 months presented with no changes in the disc condyle relationship.

Conclusion

Arthrocentesis is a useful minimally invasive technique in the treatment of anterior disc displacement with reduction. It plays a role in decreasing joint pain and improving its function and by making arthrocentesis computer-guided this makes the procedures more accurate, safe, less painful, and time-saving and preventing postoperative complications.
Repair of bulk-fill composite after different surface treatments
Authors: Fathelbab Yosra N. A. , Hasan Mostafa M. A. , Abdalla Ali I.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To evaluate the effect of different surface treatments on the shear bond strength of repaired aged bulk-fill composites.

Materials and method

60 cylindrical specimens of bulk-fill composite (X-tra fil) were prepared and stored in artificial saliva for 3 months. They were divided randomly into 2 groups according to the different repair material (n = 30), (I) X-tra fil and (II) Grandio. Then, they were further divided into 3 subgroups according to surface treatments (n = 10), (A) no surface treatment (B) diamond bur abrasion, and (C) air abrasion. Futurabond U adhesive was applied to all specimens, and then the repair composites were added. All specimens were subjected to thermo-cycling. They were tested for shear bond strength using a universal testing machine. Fractured samples were examined under a stereomicroscope to determine the mode of failure. An additional 30 specimens were made to evaluate the surface roughness. Representative SEM micrographs for each surface treatment were taken to assess the surface topography. All data was collected, tabulated and statistically analyzed.

Results

Group I: The highest mean shear bond strength was recorded in the group (IB) followed by (IC) and then (IA). Group (IA) was significantly different from groups (IB) and (IC) (P < 0.05). Group II: The highest mean shear bond strength was recorded in the group (IIB) followed by (IIC) then (IIA). Group (IIB) was significantly different from group (IIA) (P < 0.05). All surface treatments demonstrated significantly greater shear bond strength than not having any physical surface treatment. Repairing X-tra fil can be performed by either X-tra fil or Grandio with no statistically significant difference. Most of the specimens in all groups showed mixed and cohesive failures. Diamond bur abrasion showed the highest surface roughness values followed by air abrasion then control group.

Conclusion

The shear bond strength of repaired bulk-fill composite with bur or air abrasion was comparable and greater than no surface treatment. There was no significant difference between the two repair materials used.
Accuracy of digital lower complete implant assisted overdenture fabricated by two different pick up techniques
Authors: Hewidic Noha M. W. , Abutaleb Faten A. S. , El-Gendy Mohamed N. M.
Published: July 2024

Background

Digital technology and its application in the design and fabrication of a single tooth to a complete prosthesis is advancing rapidly. The aim of this work was to evaluate the accuracy of digital implant assisted lower complete overdenture using two different pick-up techniques.

Methods

This experimental study was carried out on a mandibular completely edentulous model from epoxy resin material. Fourteen digital Implant Assisted Complete overdenture (IACOs) were fabricated and divided into two equal groups, seven digital complete denture before the two implant placement (group I), and seven digital implant assisted overdenture after two implant placement (group II).

Results

There was high significant difference between both groups as regards trueness and precision, with less mean deviation value of group II. For tissue surface adaptation at selected areas, there was no significant difference between both groups except at implant area. For group I, the left implant showed more pressure than the right implant, while both implants in group II showed no significant difference. The average surface adaptation values at right and left implant area showed significant difference with less average values in group II compared to group I.

Conclusions

IAOs (group II) showed better trueness, precision, and surface tissue adaptation than Group I digital complete denture where implant position in fitting surface added manually. The overall fit in group II was better than group I.
Effect of artificial aging on the stability of color match of Omnichroma composite resin
Authors: Sroor Aml Y.M. , El-Saied Hussein Y. , Genaid Thuraia M.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To evaluate the effect of artificial aging on the stability of color match between the teeth and Omnichroma composite resin compared to that in the teeth restored with Tetric EvoCeram nanohybrid composite resin.

Materials and methods

Twenty sound, freshly extracted human maxillary premolars were mounted in acrylic blocks. The baseline shade of the selected teeth was A2 as measured from the middle third of the buccal surface by spectrophotometer (Vita Easyshade Advance). Trapezoidal Class V cavity was prepared on the buccal surface of each tooth 0.5 mm coronal to CEJ. Cavity dimensions were width of 4 mm occlusally and 3 mm gingivally, 2 mm occluso-gingival length and 1.5 mm depth. A 45-degree bevel was placed on the occlusal cavity margin.

Results

Specimens were randomly divided into two equal groups (n = 10) representing the materials used to restore the cavities. Group I: Tetric EvoCeram while Group II: Omnichroma. Specimens were artificially aged by storage for 6 months in artificial neutral saliva in an incubator at 37 ± 5°C during which the saliva was replaced daily. Color measurements and ΔE values were recorded before cavity preparation representing the baseline tooth color to be used for detection of the initial color match between the tooth and restoration where their color was measured after storage in saline for 24 h.

Conclusion

At the end of the storage period, the color of both the teeth and the restorations was remeasured to detect the stability of color match between the restoration and the tooth due to storage.
The impact of artificial aging using chewing simulator on micro-shear bond strength and micro-leakage of alkasite and bioactive resin based composites: an in-vitro comparative study
Authors: ElBahrawy Eman M. Sobhi , Shebl Eman , Attia Reham
Published: July 2024

Objective

The current study was conducted to assess and compare the impact of artificial aging using chewing simulator on the novel bulk fill restorative materials (Cention N) and Bioactive Resin Based Composites (ACTIVA) regarding, micro-shear bond strength and micro-leakage. Tetric N ceram bulk fill composite was used as control.

Patients and methods

For micro-shear bond strength testing, thirty recently extracted molars were collected, then their occlusal surfaces were cut horizontally using low-speed diamond saw under coolant exposing flat dentin surfaces. Tetric N-Bond adhesive was applied to the dentin surface, then Tygon tubes (three for each tooth) with height 1 mm and internal diameter 1 mm were placed on the flat surfaces, followed by light curing, then the restorative material (10 specimens for each material) was condensed inside the tubes. Half of the specimens is subjected to artificial aging (thermal and dynamic loading using Chewing Simulator). The specimens were mounted in blocks of stones, then placed horizontally in the universal testing machine. The load was applied using a knife-edge chisel till debonding of the composite cylinders from dentin surface. Fifteen extracted human molars were utilized for the purpose of evaluating micro-leakage. A total of thirty class II cavities were meticulously constructed on the mesial and distal surfaces of the teeth. The evaluation of micro-leakage was conducted using a dye penetration test, employing a scoring system ranging from 0 to 4.

Results

The nonaged specimens of the tested materials did not show significant differences regarding micro-shear bond strength, and micro-leakage. Aging had no significant effect on all of the tested properties in the three tested materials.

Conclusion

Short-term thermomechaical aging used in this study did not deteriorate micro-shear bond strength and micro-leakage of the tested materials. Alkasite (Cention N) and ACTIVA Bioactive Resin Based Composites are promising materials with physico-mechanical properties comparable to conventional bulk-fill composites. However, further in vitro and in vivo studies are needed to assess the properties of these recently introduced materials.
Comparative study of the adaptation of alkasite versus self-adhesive flowable restorations
Authors: Nassar Ahlam A. El-Galil , El-Sayed Emad M.
Published: July 2024

Aim

To compare the adaptation of self-adhesive flowable composite versus alkasite restorations with or without the use of an adhesive system.

Materials and Methods

A total of 30 noncarious maxillary premolars were selected and mounted 2 mm below the cemento–enamel junction in acrylic blocks. Trapezoidal class V cavities were prepared on the buccal surface of each tooth. The gingival margins of the prepared cavities were located 1 mm above cemento–enamel junction. All cavity margins were not bevelled. During the experiment time, all samples were kept in artificial saliva renewed daily at 37°C in an incubator to prevent dehydration. These were randomly divided into three groups (n = 10). Alkasite restorative material was applied in a bulk fill technique using a universal adhesive in samples of group I, while those of group II did not have any adhesive using the same restorative material and those of group III were restored using self-adhesive flowable composite (vertise flow). Specimens of the three tested groups were subjected to 500 thermal cycles from 5 to 55°C with 30 s. Dwell time and 15 s transfer time. They were all immersed in methylene blue dye 2% for 24 h in an incubator. Then all samples were examined under stereomicroscopy at ×40 to determine the percentage of gap free length along the entire margins. All specimens were then sectioned buccolingually to detect the percentage of internal gap length along the restoration/tooth interface.

Results

Regarding the marginal adaptation, the highest % of marginal free gap was recorded for group I, while the lowest was recorded for group II. Concerning the internal adaptation, it was found that the highest % of free gap was related to group I and III while the lowest was related to group II. Comparing the marginal versus internal % of gap free margins it was found that group I versus II showed a statistically significant difference. Also, group III versus II showed a significant difference. While group I versus III recorded no statistically significant difference. This was true at both marginal and internal % of free gaps. These findings indicated the responsibility of group II for the recorded differences since group II showed the least % of free gap margins and the highest percentage of total dye penetration values.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of this in vitro study, the adhesive system was effective in increasing the percentage of free gaps of tested groups whether marginal or internal.

Recommendations

The use of any composite material is not recommended without an adhesive system. Further in vitro studies providing more precise gap measurement are required.
Evaluation of different approaches for sagittal skeletal discrepancy assessment
Authors: Awadallah Yamen M. , El-Mehy Ghada A.-F. , El Laithy Mohammed M.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The accurate assessment of the sagittal jaw relationship between the maxilla and mandible plays a pivotal role in orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning. Researchers have introduced both linear and angular measurements to establish a precise method for evaluating sagittal base discrepancies.

Aim

The aim was to assess the different approaches for sagittal skeletal discrepancy assessment.

Material and methods

The study included 180 pretreated lateral cephalometric radiographs of Egyptian orthodontic patients of both sexes with varying skeletal malocclusion patterns from the Orthodontic Department clinic at Tanta University. These radiographs were meticulously traced onto lead acetate paper using a 0.5 mm lead pencil and an LED tracing screen for adequate illumination. A total of 60 cephalometric radiographs were grouped based on the ANB angle into three skeletal categories: group 1 (class I, ANB° 2°–4°), group 2 (class II, ANB° >4°), and group 3 (class III, ANB° <2°). To analyze the data, each linear and angular parameter (including ANB°, Wits appraisal, AF-BF distance, APDI angle, Beta angle, Yen angle, and W angle) was compared among these three skeletal groups using the F test (analysis of variance), to compare between more than two groups, for normally distributed quantitative variable. Additionally, the Spearman coefficient test was employed to examine the correlations between various linear and angular measurements studied.

Results

All the performed parameters ANB, Yen, W, Beta, Wits appraisal, and AF-BF distance showed significantly differences for skeletal classes I, II, III. APDI angle differed significantly between both classes I and III and also classes II and III, but did not differ significantly between classes I and II. Strong correlations were found among the studied parameters except between Wits appraisal and AF-BF distance which showed nonsignificant correlation.

Conclusion

The previous parameters are equally important in terms of diagnosis and reliability, allowing them to serve as alternative analyses under challenging circumstances.
In vitro evaluation of the bleaching effect on the change of color match of omnichroma composite resin
Authors: Beltagy Nourhan Talat Mohamed , Etman Wedad M. , Genaid Thuraia M.
Published: July 2024

Aim

To in vitro evaluate the bleaching effect on the color match of Omnichroma composite resin restorations to the teeth color.

Materials and methods

Thirty freshly extracted intact human premolars were collected and mounted in acrylic resin blocks (only roots were embedded). The shade of the selected teeth was measured by (VITA Easyshade V). Class V cavities (4 mm width, 2 mm length, and 2 mm depth) were prepared 2 mm coronal to cement-enamel junction on the cervical third of the facial surface of each tooth. Specimens were randomly divided into two equal groups (n = 15): group I: was restored with nano hybrid Tetric N- ceram while group II: was restored with Omnichroma supra-nano filled composite resin using their respective adhesives. All the specimens were thermocycled for 500 cycles from 5 to 55°C with 15 s dwell time, and 20 s transfer time. The initial data of color measurements for tooth and restoration surfaces were recorded after thermocycling using VITA Easy Shade V. Specimens were then bleached using 40% HP by White smile power whitening YF according to the manufacturer instructions and kept in artificial saliva for 1 week before color re-measuring. All data were collected, tabulated, and statistically analyzed at 95% significance level using a software statistical package for social sciences (SPSS version 26).

Results

Before bleaching, higher mean ΔΕ values were recorded for the teeth (3.38 and 2.74) compared to (2.24 and 1.82) of the restorations in group I (Tetric N) and group II (Omnichroma) respectively with no statistically significant difference (P = 0.26 and 0.43) in either of the groups denoting the color match between the restorations and the teeth in both groups. After bleaching there was a highly statistically significant difference (P = 0.039) between the mean ΔΕ values of teeth (5.56) and restorations (3.23) in group I, denoting the color mismatch. While in group II there was no significant difference (P = 0.249) between the values of teeth (5.25) and restorations (4.49) denoting the persistence of the color match after bleaching. No significant difference was found between the ΔΕ values of teeth used in both groups neither before (P = 0.62) nor after bleaching (P = 0.802). While there was a significant difference between the recorded values of the restorations after bleaching (P = 0.026) although the difference was not significant before bleaching (P = 0.619). Bleaching significantly affected the teeth color (P = 0.013 and 0.038), and the restoration color (P = 0.049 and 0.012) in groups I and II, respectively.

Conclusions

Omnichroma class V composite restorations matched the shades of teeth before and after bleaching where it was changed to a lighter shade with the teeth enamel that was within the acceptable clinical range. The color matching of the Tetric N restorations after bleaching was lost where the teeth were lighter in a clinically detectable manner, which necessitates restoration replacement.
Synergistic effect of nicotine on different implant platform design in implant-assisted mandibular overdenture, 1- Year clinical and radiographic study
Authors: El Morshedy Nada A. , Elhdad Fatma A.
Published: July 2024

Background

In implant therapy, peri-implant bone loss has been noticed mainly in the first year after prosthesis insertion. This bone loss can sometimes jeopardize the outcome of the treatment. Different implant platform designs are widely used in implant dentistry; however, its influence on the health of the surrounding soft tissues and marginal bone level alterations in implant-assisted overdentures particularly in smoker patients, remains inconclusive. The purpose of this study will be to evaluate the effect of nicotine on different implant platform designs in complete mandibular implant-assisted overdenture patient.

Materials and methods

Ten male smoker patients were selected for this study. Split mouth study design will be used in this study where, Group I represented the right side of the patients’ mandibular interforamenal region restored with platform-switched implant and Group II represented the left side of the patients’ mandibular interforamenal region restored with nonplatform swithched implants. The patients received complete mandibular assisted overdenture with O-ring attachment. Clinical and Radiographic evaluations were carried out for every patient at regular recall visits at the time of insertion, 6, and 12 months. At the end of the study, all implants of both groups were successfully osseointegrated. The data of this study were collected, tabulated, and statistically analyzed by IBM-SPSS statistics software (Independent T-test Samples).

Result

There were insignificant differences between both groups regarding plaque index (PI), bleeding index (BI), pocket depth (PD) and stability of the implants. Radiographically, there were significant differences in the mandibular bone density at the bone implant interface and marginal bone loss between both groups. Group I implant represented less marginal bone loss and higher bone density than Group II implants.

Conclusion

In smoker patient Platform-Switched dental implant is the implant of choice to control marginal bone loss around implants.
Comparison of traditional and mobile photogrammetric method for the Tanaka Johnston mixed dentition analysis: an analytical cross-sectional study
Authors: Padmanabh Shital K.D. , Bhise Omkar R. , Jhamb Vikram , Gori Nasrin
Published: July 2024

Aim

Comparison of Tanaka Johnston mixed dentition analysis using the mobile photogrammetric method and traditional method.

Patients and methods

Thirty-five healthy children between the ages of 6 and 10 were signed up for the study. Casts were considered using the conventional Tanaka Johnston analysis method. A digital caliper was utilized to measure the mesiodistal dimension of every tooth from the incisor to the first permanent molar on both sides. Occlusal photos were taken intraorally using a smartphone and an intraoral occlusal mirror. The principal investigator took the intraoral pictures. An assistant retracted the lips and placed the intraoral mirror inside the mouth. The acquired images were exported to the digimizer software, where they were processed and analyzed. To enable digital software to measure dental arch images, an occlusal ruler was kept at the occlusal level. A total of 20 tooth measurements in the maxillary and mandibular arches were taken for the Tanaka Johnston mixed dentition analysis.

Results

Thirty-five children were assessed. Intergroup comparison of different parameters between two groups was performed. This comparison revealed no statistically significant differences (P value > 0.05) between the traditional and photogrammetric methods for all parameters, indicating that both methods produce similar outcomes.

Conclusion

The photogrammetric method is a reliable and valid method to measure individual tooth width. The photogrammetric method is alternative to traditional method for Tanaka Johnston mixed dentition analysis.
Factors Associated with Postoperative Recurrence in Stage I to IIIA Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer with Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Mutation: Analysis of Korean National Population Data
Authors: Kim Kyu Yean , Kim Ho Cheol , Kim Tae Jung , Kim Hong Kwan , Moon Mi Hyung , Beck Kyongmin Sarah , Suh Yang Gun , Song Chang Hoon , Ahn Jin Seok , Lee Jeong Eun , Jeon Jae Hyun , Jung Chi Young , Cho Jeong Su , Choi Yoo Duk , Hwang Seung Sik , Choi Chang Min , Jang Seung Hun , Lim Jeong Uk ,   Korean Association for Lung Cancer, Korea Central Cancer Registry
Published: July 2024

Purpose Recent development in perioperative treatment of resectable non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) have changed the landscape of early lung cancer management. The ADAURA trial has demonstrated the efficacy of adjuvant osimertinib treatment in resectable NSCLC patients; however, studies are required to show which subgroup of patients are at a high risk of relapse and require adjuvant epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor treatment. This study evaluated risk factors for postoperative relapse among patients who underwent complete resection.Materials and Methods Data were obtained from the Korean Association for Lung Cancer Registry (KALC-R), a database created using a retrospective sampling survey by the Korean Central Cancer Registry (KCCR) and the Lung Cancer Registration Committee.Results A total of 3,176 patients who underwent curative resection was evaluated. The mean observation time was approximately 35.4 months. Among stage I to IIIA NSCLC patients, the EGFR-mutant subgroup included 867 patients, and 75.2%, 11.2%, and 11.8% were classified as stage I, stage II, and stage III, respectively. Within the EGFR-mutant subgroup, 44 (5.1%) and 121 (14.0%) patients showed early and late recurrence, respectively. Multivariate analysis on association with postoperative relapse among the EGFR-mutant subgroup showed that age, pathologic N and TNM stages, pleural invasion status, and surgery type were independent significant factors.Conclusion Among the population that underwent complete resection for early NSCLC with EGFR mutation, patients with advanced stage, pleural invasion, or limited resection are more likely to show postoperative relapse.
Generic properties of $3$-dimensional Reeb flows: Birkhoff sections and entropy
Authors: Colin Vincent , Dehornoy Pierre , Hryniewicz Umberto , Rechtman Ana
Published: July 2024

In this paper we use broken book decompositions to study Reeb flows on closed

3

-manifolds. We show that if the Liouville measure of a non-degenerate contact form can be approximated by periodic orbits, then there is a Birkhoff section for the associated Reeb flow. In view of Irie’s equidistribution theorem, this is shown to imply that the set of contact forms whose Reeb flows have a Birkhoff section contains an open and dense set in the

C^{\infty}

-topology. We also show that the set of contact forms whose Reeb flows have positive topological entropy is open and dense in the

C^{\infty}

-topology.
Special macroscopic modes and hypocoercivity
Authors: Carrapatoso Kleber , Dolbeault Jean , Hérau Frédéric , Mischler Stéphane , Mouhot Clément , Schmeiser Christian
Published: July 2024

We study linear inhomogeneous kinetic equations with an external confining potential and a collision operator admitting several local conservation laws (local density, momentum and energy). We classify all special macroscopic modes (stationary solutions and time-periodic solutions). We also prove the convergence of all solutions of the evolution equation to such non-trivial modes, with a quantitative exponential rate. This is the first hypocoercivity result with multiple special macroscopic modes with constructive estimates depending on the geometry of the potential.
Spectrahedral shadows and completely positive maps on real closed fields
Authors: Bodirsky Manuel , Kummer Mario , Thom Andreas
Published: July 2024

In this article we develop new methods for exhibiting convex semialgebraic sets that are not spectrahedral shadows. We characterize when the set of nonnegative polynomials with a given support is a spectrahedral shadow in terms of sums of squares. As an application we prove that the cone of copositive matrices of size

n\geq5

is not a spectrahedral shadow, answering a question of Scheiderer. Our arguments are based on the model-theoretic observation that any formula defining a spectrahedral shadow must be preserved by every unital

\mathbb{R}

-linear completely positive map

R\to R

on a real closed field extension

R

of

\mathbb{R}

.
Quantitative asymptotic regularity of the VAM iteration with error terms for $m$-accretive operators in Banach spaces
Authors: Firmino Paulo , Leuştean Laurenţiu
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we obtain, by using proof mining methods, quantitative results on the asymptotic regularity of the viscosity approximation method (VAM) with error terms for

m

-accretive operators in Banach spaces. For concrete instances of the parameter sequences, linear rates are computed by applying a lemma due to Sabach and Shtern.
Estudio comparativo de estrategias pasivas para favorecer el confort térmico en viviendas multifamiliares en climas cálidos: Ricaurte, Colombia
Authors: Lara-Zamudio Brandon Steven , Rodriguez Carolina M. , Coronado-Cabrera María Camila
Published: July 2024

En muchos países latinoamericanos, las grandes constructoras de viviendas multifamiliares frecuentemente ignoran las características climáticas y las necesidades de los habitantes de cada región. Esto se debe a la dinámica del mercado, el afán por ahorrar en los procesos y la implementación de modelos predefinidos. También influye la falta de regulaciones locales sobre confort térmico. Este articulo aborda esta problemática en un estudio de caso en Ricaurte, Colombia, donde el aumento en la construcción de viviendas ha desencadenado un alto consumo energético por equipos de climatización. En el análisis, se probaron estrategias pasivas, aisladas y combinadas, para favorecer el confort térmico sin afectar el diseño arquitectónico interior. Los resultados sugieren reducciones significativas de hasta 5,7 °C mediante la combinación de estrategias de protección solar tipo persiana en las ventanas, y aislamiento en los muros de fachada y cubierta. Se encontró que la combinación de estrategias puede potencialmente reducir el consumo de energía en aproximadamente 33%.
Algunos aportes para pensar una justicia contextual en América latina
Authors: Valdés-Norambuena Cristián
Published: July 2024

El presente artículo pretende ser un complemento al artículo de R. Salas Astraín desarrollado dentro del proyecto ECOS-Sud en torno a la justicia contextual. Se abordará la cuestión a partir de la definición de experiencias de injusticia desarrollado por E. Renault, para profundizar en el dispositivo crítico decolonial/intercultural que se propone, y luego avanzar hacia algunas observaciones derivadas de los trabajos de R. Kusch en torno a las problemáticas asociadas a la interpretación de las experiencias de injusticia y su proyección institucional.
Distribution of zeros of functions with exponential growth
Authors: Kazarnovskii Boris Yakovlevich
Published: July 2024

For systems of equations with an infinite number of roots one can sometimes establish results of the type of the Kushnirenko-Bernstein-Khovanskii theorem by replacing the calculation of the number of the roots by the calculation of the asymptotic density of these roots. We consider systems of entire functions with exponential growth in $\mathbb C^n$ and calculate the asymptotic behaviour of the averaged distribution of their zeros in terms of the geometry of convex bodies in a complex vector space.
Bibliography: 11 titles.
In Silico Study, Design, and Expression of an Intranasal Dual Chimeric Vaccine for Indonesian-Based Norovirus GII-2 and Hepatitis B
Authors: Giri-Rachman Ernawati Arifin , Tan Marselina Irasonia , Novia Syari Intan  , Putri Ayu Fajar  , Wojciechowska Gladys Emmanuella Putri , Hertadi Rukman , Retnoningrum Debbie Soefie
Published: July 2024

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) remains an important healthcare challenge, leading to liver diseases like cirrhosis and cancer. In response, we created a prophylactic and therapeutic HBV vaccine by integrating HBcAg and HBsAg from HBV genotype B into Norovirus (NoV) GII.2 P domain (PdomGII.2-HBV) for enhanced intranasal delivery. This vaccine also aimed to simultaneously prevent NoV infection, which causes gastroenteritis. Since the selected HBV epitopes have undergone extensive research and are tailored to the Indonesian population, this study focused on identifying NoV epitopes and assessing T cell epitopes coverage of the PdomGII.2-HBV for the Indonesian population. Following that, we expressed the PdomGII.2-HBV protein using Escherichia coli BL21(DE3) and employed a gentle solubilization technique for protein purification. Our in-silico analysis identified two B cell epitopes, along with 15 CD4+T cell epitopes and 35 CD8+T cell epitopes within the GII.2 P domain. These T cell epitopes cover 100% of the Javanese-Sundanese population's HLA allele variations, which constituted the largest demographic group in Indonesia. Subsequently, we successfully purified the presumed PdomGII.2-HBV protein, revealing a molecular weight of 39.5 kDa. Following the successful expression and purification of the presumed PdomGII.2-HBV protein, it is evident that this vaccine design has significant potential, warranting further study.
Genetic Relationship and the Putative Occurrence of A Species Complex Within the Indonesian Calotes (Daudin, 1802) (Squamata, Agamidae) Genus Based on COI Gene Sequences
Authors: Maulana Muhammad Indra , Pakpahan Suhendra , Darmawan Andy , Ariyanti Yanti
Published: July 2024

The Calotes genus presents a challenge due to the complexity of its species. However, research on the cryptic species complex within the Indonesian Calotes genus is still lacking. This study aims to determine the extent of genetic relationships and assess the potential existence of a species complex within the Indonesian genus Calotes (Daudin, 1802) (Squamata, Agamidae) using the partial Cytochrome c Oxidase Subunit 1 (COI) gene sequence as a molecular marker. Samples of the Indonesian Calotes genus in this study were collected from South Lampung (Lampung), Bogor (West Java), and Langkat (North Sumatra). By aligning 582 bp sequence similarities with reference sequences in GenBank, we confirmed that seven out of eight samples analyzed belonged to Calotes vultuosus, while one sample was identified as Calotes versicolor. The identity values ranged from 96 to 100%. The C. vultuosus samples in this study displayed lower genetic distances, ranging from 0 to 3%, with the reference C. vultuosus sequence from Indonesia compared to the reference sequence from India, which ranged from 6 to 9%. Phylogenetic tree reconstruction, utilizing both maximum likelihood with IQ-Tree and Bayesian Inference with BEAST methods, further supports these findings. It reveals distinct groupings between C. vultuosus samples from Indonesia and India. These results suggest the potential occurrence of a species complex within the Indonesian genus Calotes. Furthermore, the inclusion of eight COI gene sequences from two Calotes species in the GenBank database has the potential to confirm the existence of previously undocumented species in Indonesia.
Phytochemical Screening and Evaluation of Antibacterial, Anticandidal, and Sporicidal Properties of Euphorbia tirucalli Extract in Terengganu, Malaysia
Authors: Abd Wahab Noor Zarina , Malza Nur Maizatul Najwa Malza , Rukayadi Yaya
Published: July 2024

Euphorbia tirucalli, commonly known as the pencil cactus or milk bush plant, is used as an alternative medicine. The current study evaluated the phytochemical contents, antibacterial, anticandidal, and antisporicidal potential of the E. tirucalli methanolic extract. The antibacterial and anticandidal activity of E. tirucalli methanolic extract was determined by performing a disc diffusion assay, MIC, MBC, and MCC. The sporicidal activity was tested at different concentrations of extract and exposure times. Phytochemical analyses revealed the presence of alkaloids, saponins, cardiac glycosides, terpenoids, and tannins in E. tirucalli methanolic extract. Results demonstrated inhibition zones of the extract against Gram-positive bacteria were in range of 22.00-7.00 mm. Meanwhile, inhibition zones of the extract against Gram-negative bacteria were in range of 13.00-7.00 mm. All bacteria were inhibited with MIC values at 1.56-25.0 mg/ml and can be completely killed with MBC values of 20-200 mg/ml. Inhibition zones of E. tirucalli methanolic extract against Candida spp. were in the range of 20.00-8.00 mm. All Candida spp. were inhibited with MIC values at 1.56-100.00 mg/ml and MBC values of 100-300 mg/ml. All concentrations of the extract inhibited all Bacillus spp. spores at different exposure times. In conclusion, the methanolic extract of E. tirucalli exhibits antibacterial, anticandidal, and sporicidal activities. The findings indicated that the methanolic extract of E. tirucalli has good potential for prospective nature-based antimicrobial agents.
Call of duty: rethinking the relationship between economics and ethics in teaching – walking in the footsteps of Albion Small
Authors: Vallet Guillaume
Published: July 2024

This paper argues that economics education needs to be underpinned by a new ‘system of ethics’ whose goal is to help students achieve a better understanding of today’s global challenges. Given the absence of a single universal truth in ethical matters, this ‘system of ethics’ combines Weber’s ‘ethics of conviction’ and ‘ethics of responsibility’ in a way that aims to instill in students ‘attitudes’ in reference to global ends and social values as advocated by Albion W. Small. An ethical approach to economics education forces us to consider relations of power in economic activities and, for that reason, to recognise that the production and distribution of economic resources is a matter of justice. It forces us to consider the question of what kind of society we want and how we can improve the common good. This new ‘system of ethics’ to be promoted in economics curricula requires economics professors to answer a ‘call of duty’ which should be reflected by their teaching methodology and course contents. I use courses dealing with money and finance as an example to showcase this new ‘system of ethics’.
Constitutional citizenship and indigeneity: the case of Latin America
Authors: Ramaciotti Juan-Pablo , Shaw Jo
Published: July 2024

The article explores the impact of the recognition of plurinationality and related pluralist constitutional concepts on the constitutional construction of the relationship between the modern state and Indigenous nations and citizens. It uses the prism of the Indigenous constitutional citizen in order to undertake this task, focusing on the Latin American region and challenging some settled precepts about the place of the citizen in the modern state. The article concludes that Latin America presents a complex and evolving constitutional framework with regard to citizenship status, rights and identity in relation to the position of Indigenous peoples under the law. In plurinational states, legal conditions are in place for Indigenous peoples to identify both as citizens of the modern, settler state and as members of Indigenous nations. However, thus far, as regards effective implementation the story is somewhat more ambivalent. The enquiry is important, however, as it opens the issue of citizenship up to further enquiry with regard to the impact of pluralistic thinking.
Giving individual remedies in social rights litigation their due
Authors: Béchard-Torres Edward
Published: July 2024

As courts enforce socio-economic rights, reliance on individualized relief continues to be controversial. These remedies risk rewarding individuals for their ‘sharp elbows’, while ignoring others who suffer from similar deprivations. They can undermine the integrity of priority-setting schemes for distributing resources, and they can encourage inefficient public spending. Worse still, these orders can have the effect of starving social programs which support the vulnerable. More generally, this form of relief can neglect the need for structural change, and may fail to promote truly transformative constitutionalism. In the face of these criticisms, this article attempts to give individual remedies in socio-economic rights litigation their due. It develops a framework that identifies three spaces in which individualized relief is warranted. First, individual remedies can compensate for implementation gaps in public policy and administrative disfunction. Second, weak-form engagement orders can promote greater rights awareness and special attention for individuals experiencing poverty. Third, individual remedies can provide urgent relief from unreasonable priority-setting schemes. These remedial paths challenge conventional accounts of the judicial role by positioning judges to be more sensitive to their orders’ distributive implications. The article then theorizes the individual remedy’s contributions to the broader project of transformative constitutionalism. It stresses that when coupled with a democratization of legal procedure, individual orders can offer more timely and effective relief than complex, structural remedies. Individualized relief can also catalyze broader policy and administrative reform. Last, individual remedies can set the stage for structural remedies that would otherwise prove too daunting or provocative.
TSO-DSO interface for Net Zero: the German case of 50Hertz and its DSO neighbour TEN Thüringer Energienetz*
Authors: Lovergne Noémie
Published: July 2024

As Germany advances towards its energy transition goals, the imperative to expand and restructure its power grid infrastructure becomes increasingly evident. The current infrastructure lacks the capacity to meet future demands, highlighting the pressing need for action. Escalating challenges related to system security and grid reliability underscore the critical importance of fostering close coordination between Distribution System Operators (DSOs) and Transmission System Operators (TSOs). Collaboration is particularly crucial in control areas such as for instance 50Hertz’s in north-eastern Germany, where efficient management of energy fluctuations is essential for the successful transition to high renewable energy usage. Regulatory strategies aimed at facilitating this transition must prioritize a strong collaboration between DSOs and TSOs necessary for stability, optimizing operations, and securing the network. This article is intended to illustrate how a regulatory framework for such TSO-DSO cooperation in north-eastern and eastern Germany for congestion management could be necessary, in accordance with the next grid development plans. Regulatory gaps associated with such interface will be identified and policy recommendations derived from them will address the challenges and opportunities linked to congestion management and the utilization of smart grid technologies.
A giant leap for humankind: bridging space law and international humanitarian law*
Authors: van de Put Steven , Siemensma Anne-Rixt E
Published: July 2024

As more parties have started to recognize the military potential of outer space, the idea of an armed conflict in outer space has become more than a theoretical possibility. Several states have conducted tests with anti-satellite weapons, NATO has officially recognized space as a military domain, and several states have started to develop specific military space capabilities. Such developments have also highlighted the consideration for a relevant legal framework for the conduct of hostilities in outer space.

As a starting point, the conduct of hostilities would be governed by international humanitarian law concerning the substantive actions of parties when engaged in armed conflict. However, the specific location of these hostilities also leads to the relevance of space law, consisting of the particular obligations states have agreed upon for all conduct in outer space. Relying upon these two bodies of law, this article explores how international law might govern many of these activities.

In doing so, this article aims to challenge the traditionally advanced lex specialis argument. It does so by arguing that, unlike what is typically assumed, space law does not necessarily present a conflict with international humanitarian law. Progressing from this central thesis, it advances the notion that this relationship might be best considered through systematic integration. Ultimately, it is argued that only in this way can the specific nature of the space domain be offered the required legal protection.