bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kinetically stabilized 1,3-diarylisobenzofurans and the possibility of preparing large, persistent isoacenofurans with unusually small HOMO–LUMO gaps
Authors: Liu Qian , Miller Glen P
Published: May 2024

DFT calculations demonstrate that an isoacenofuran of any size possesses a smaller HOMO–LUMO gap than the corresponding acene bearing an isoelectronic π-system (i.e., the same total number of rings). Isoacenofurans show limited stability due in part to the highly reactive 1,3-carbons of the furan ring. Both 1,3-dimesitylisobenzofuran and 1,3-di(2’,4’,6’-triethylphenyl)isobenzofuran, each bearing sterically congesting ortho-alkyl groups on their phenyl substituents, have been synthesized and shown to adopt non-planar conformations with the ortho-alkyl groups located above and below the most reactive 1,3-carbons of the furan ring. These bulky substituents provide a strong measure of kinetic stabilization. Thus, 1,3-dimesitylisobenzofuran and 1,3-di(2’,4’,6’-triethylphenyl)isobenzofuran are significantly less reactive than 1,3-diphenylisobenzofuran toward the strong dienophiles DMAD and acrylonitrile. The insights gained here suggest that the synthesis of large, persistent, kinetically stabilized isoacenofurans with unusually small HOMO–LUMO gaps is achievable. As such, these molecules deserve increased attention as potential p-type organic semiconductors.
The Effect Of Product Quality And Promotion On Purchase Decision
Authors: Ristanti Vivi , Haryati Tety , Igo Arif
Published: May 2024

This study aims to determine: 1. The effect of product quality on purchasing decisions for Oppo smartphones for STIM Budi Bakti students; 2. The influence of promotions on purchasing decisions for Oppo smartphones for STIM Budi Bakti students; 3. The influence of product quality and promotion together on purchasing decisions for Oppo smartphones for STIM Budi Bakti students. This type of research is quantitative research. The sample in this study were STIM Budi Bakti students. The sample in this study was part of STIM Budi Bakti students, totaling 90 respondents. Data collection techniques in this study using a questionnaire. Data analysis techniques using Simple Linear Regression and Multiple Linear Regression. The results of research on Product Quality on Purchasing Decisions are known to have an influence of 60,7%. whereas for the results of Promotional research on Purchasing Decisions it is known to have an influence of 57,9%. The results of research on product quality and promotion on purchasing decisions are known to have an influence of 62,6%. From this study, it shows that there is an influence of product quality and promotion on consumer satisfaction of Oppo smartphones for STIM Budi Bakti students.
 
Keywords: Product quality, Promotion, Purchasing decisions
Rekomendasi Restock Barang di Toko Pojok UMKM Menggunakan Algoritma K-Means Clustering
Authors: Salsabiela Ayuni , Kuncoro Adam Prayogo , Subarkah Pungkas , Arsi Primandani
Published: May 2024

Toko Pojok ialah toko yang menjual beraneka produk seperti makanan ringan dan minuman. Toko Pojok UMKM dalam pembukuan selama ini masih dilakukan secara manual dengan buku besar baik dalam pencatatan produk masuk maupun penjualan. Pembukuan dilakukan belum tersistem mengakibatkan data menumpuk, sehingga pemilik kesulitan dalam melihat stok yang terjual sehingga pengadaan barang ke supplier ada keterlambatan. Berdasarkan permasalahan tersebut penelitian ini dilakukan untuk merekomendasikan restock produk menggunakan algoritma K-Means dimana pengadaan barang dalam jumlah banyak, sedang dan sedikit. Penelitian ini menggunakan algoritma k-means clustering dengan 3 cluster. Di mana nilai k=3 merupakan nilai cluster terbaik dalam penelitian ini dengan performa dari cluster berdasarkan hasil Davies Bouldin Index sebesar 0.436, di mana cluster 1 ada 9 produk jumlah banyak dan masuk pengadaan barang, cluster 2 ada 19 produk jumlah sedang dan masuk pengadaan barang serta cluster 0 ada 110 produk jumlah sedikit masuk pengadaan barang.
Características de Resiliencia en Estudiantes Universitarios
Authors: Ángel Tuz Sierra Miguel , García Reyes Liliana , Estrada Carmona Sinuhe , Pérez Aranda Gabriela Isabel
Published: May 2024

La resiliencia en su definición engloba conceptos como fortaleza, adaptación, capacidad, y adversidad. El cual, lleva a un proceso que permite al individuo a enfrentarse, adaptarse y superar adecuadamente situaciones angustiantes o desagradables como las crisis (Quezadas et al., 2023). En tanto, es importante identificar la resiliencia en universitarios ya que se desarrollan en ambientes con diversos estresores dadas las condiciones psicosociales que actualmente se viven, pudiendo no lograr una adaptación favorable terminando en la deserción escolar, así como la identificación de una posible diferenciación en el afrontamiento respecto al género. El objetivo de la presente investigación es identificar las posibles diferencias en las capacidades de resiliencia entre hombres y mujeres. Bajo la metodología cuantitativa, se utilizó el instrumento SV-RES60 mide 12 factores de resiliencias: identidad, autonomía, satisfacción, pragmatismos, vínculos, redes, modelos, metas, afectividad, autoeficacia, aprendizaje y generatividad con un Alfa de Cronbach=0,96. En una muestra probabilística con una cuota recaudada de 456 alumnos de diversas carreras de la Universidad, los resultados obtenidos demuestran que no existen diferencias significativas en los niveles de resiliencia en comparación al género, los niveles de resiliencia de hombre y mujeres universitarios son muy similares, excepto en los factores de satisfacción y en el de modelo.
Estrategias Lúdicas de Matronatación para el Desarrollo de la Autonomía de la Flotabilidad en Niños de 2 a 3 Años
Authors: Centeno Pinta Analia Guadalupe , Montero Ordóñez Luis Felipe
Published: May 2024

Introducción: La matronatación son actividades donde el niño recibe estimulación acuática por parte de sus padres donde el juego es la principal técnica para lograr que el niño desarrolle su  psicomotricidad y logre flotar de manera autónoma favoreciendo sus movimientos y se sienta libre en un contexto diferente al que habita normalmente. El objetivo del presente artículo científico es diseñar estrategias lúdicas de matronatación para el desarrollo de la autonomía de la flotabilidad en niños de 2 a 3 años. Metodología: el trabajo investigativo tiene un enfoque cualitativo y es de tipo descriptivo, se utiliza la investigación bibliográfica-documental y de campo. Se aplican métodos teóricos como el analítico-sintético y el inductivo-deductivo; además, se aplican métodos empíricos como la entrevista y la observación. La población está conformada por 10 niños que acuden con sus padres a la piscina del Club Deportivo Orenses de esta ciudad, como la población es pequeña no se selecciona muestra. Resultados: la matronatación ayuda a los niños en su desarrollo integral ya que se fortalecen los ámbitos cognitivos, motrices, sociales y afectivos. Fortalece los músculos y desarrolla lazos afectivos con sus padres. Los niños sujetos de estudio tienen dificultades para lograr la flotabilidad. Conclusión: la aplicación de estrategias lúdicas mediante la matronatación ayuda a lograr la flotabilidad de los niños lo que permite que los padres de familia interactúen con sus hijos desarrollando lazos afectivos.
Association of Gut Dysbiosis with Potential Mechanisms Leading to Atrial Fibrillation: A Narrative Review
Authors: Singh Wilkhoo Harsahaj
Published: May 2024

Atrial fibrillation stands as one of the deadliest forms of arrhythmia known to mankind due to its severe complication and co-morbidities. Its association with gut dysbiosis is profound. The gut microbiota hosts a diverse variety of microbes crucial for immune function and protection against cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Poor lifestyle habits such as diet, decreased physical activity, and drug disrupt this gut homeostasis. Multiple studies have provided compelling evidence linking alterations in gut microbiota to the risk and progression of atrial fibrillation. Some proposed mechanisms involve key metabolites such as trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), lipopolysaccharides, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), bile acids, and tryptophan. These mechanisms encompass inflammation, oxidative stress, autonomic dysfunction, atrial remodeling, altered electrical activity, and calcium homeostasis. This review meticulously examines gut dysbiosis and its pivotal role in the progression of atrial fibrillation through diverse potential mechanisms, emphasizing the significance of dietary factors and potential interventions.
APPLICATION OF MACHINE LEARNING MODELS AND GSA METHOD FOR DESIGNING STUD CONNECTORS
Authors: Sun Guorui , Kang Jiayuan , Shi Jun
Published: May 2024

The design of stud connectors is aided by determining the relationship between shear strength and the input variables (number, diameter, height, tensile strength and elastic modulus of the studs, and compressive strength and elastic modulus of the concrete) that influence strength. Since strength is nonlinearly related to the influencing variables, which makes the predictions of the relevant empirical equations unreliable, the use of machine learning (ML) models is preferred. The prediction results of eight machine learning models were evaluated, including linear regression (LR1), ridge regression (RR), lasso regression (LR2), back-propagation artificial neural network (BP ANN), genetic algorithm optimized BP ANN (GA-BP ANN), extreme learning machines (ELM), random forests (RF), and support vector machines (SVM). The results show that the GA-BP ANN model is the most accurate model for prediction with a mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of 6.17% and an R2 of 0.9599. Based on the GA-BP ANN model and the global sensitivity analysis (GSA) method, a new parameter importance analysis method was developed to compare the magnitude of the effect of different input variables on strength. It was found that stud diameter had the greatest effect on shear strength.
Origin and Properties of the Near-subsonic Solar Wind Observed by Parker Solar Probe
Authors: Cheng Wenshuai , Liu Ying D. , Ran Hao , Jiao Yiming , Stevens Michael L. , Kasper Justin C.
Published: May 2024

We identify and examine the solar wind intervals near the sonic critical point (i.e., M

S
∼ 1) observed by the Parker Solar Probe. The near-subsonic wind intervals show similar properties: a low density, an extremely low velocity, a low proton temperature, and essentially no magnetic field deflections compared with the surrounding solar wind. The extremely low velocity is the primary contributor to the near crossing of the sonic critical point rather than the sound speed, which is roughly constant in these intervals. Source tracing with a potential-field source-surface model suggests that the near subsonic intervals all connect to the boundaries inside coronal holes. Heliospheric current sheet (HCS) and partial HCS crossings around the near subsonic intervals indicate that the near subsonic wind is a transition layer between the slow and fast winds. The above scenario is consistent with the nature of the near-subsonic wind as a low-Mach-number boundary layer, which facilitates the crossing of the sonic critical point at 15–20 R

S
. Moreover, we find a dependence of the amplitude of switchbacks on the radial sonic Mach number. Magnetic field deflections essentially disappear near the sonic critical point, which suggests that switchbacks originate from above the sonic critical point.
The Redshift Evolution of the Binary Black Hole Mass Distribution from Dense Star Clusters
Authors: Ye Claire S. , Fishbach Maya
Published: May 2024

Gravitational-wave detectors are unveiling a population of binary black hole (BBH) mergers out to redshifts z ≈ 1, and are starting to constrain how the BBH population evolves with redshift. We present predictions for the redshift evolution of the BBH mass and spin distributions for systems originating from dense star clusters. Utilizing a grid of 144 state-of-the-art dynamical models for globular clusters, we demonstrate that BBH merger rates peak at higher redshifts for larger black hole primary masses M
1. Specifically, for M
1 ≳ 40 M
⊙, the BBH merger rate reaches its peak at redshift z ≈ 2.1, while for M
1 ≲ 20 M
⊙, the peak occurs at z ≈ 1.1, assuming that the cluster formation rate peaks at z = 2.2. The average BBH primary mass also increases from ∼10 M
⊙ at z = 0 to ∼30 M
⊙ at z = 10. We show that ∼20% BBHs contain massive remnants from next-generation mergers, with this fraction increasing (decreasing) for larger (smaller) primary masses. This difference is not large enough to significantly alter the effective spins of the BBH population originating from globular clusters, and we find that their effective spin distribution does not evolve across cosmic time. These findings can be used to distinguish BBHs from dense star clusters by future gravitational-wave observations.
Ornamental Phoenix palm trees as habitat for fauna in the Mediterranean Region – results from a full year monitoring
Authors: Laucht Silke , Brulez Kaat , Hanisch Jörg , Blakey Alexander , Weyman Gabe , Ludwigs Jan-Dieter , Alvarez Tania
Published: May 2024

In the European Mediterranean Region, palm trees are a common element in cities and semi-urban landscapes and have become important habitat structures for local fauna. This study aimed to monitor the invertebrate and vertebrate fauna occurring on and associated with ornamental palms of the genus Phoenix, over the course of one year. Five study sites were used in southern Spain, with varying levels of management. Several complementary methods were applied monthly in order to assess the vertebrates and invertebrates associated with the full seasonal cycle of palms, including flowering and fruiting. The study resulted in the identification of 216 invertebrate families from seven different classes and 89 vertebrate species, consisting of 62 bird, 20 mammal (including bats), six reptile and one amphibian species associated with Phoenix palms. It thus highlights that Phoenix palms provide a habitat for many species and individuals over the course of one year.
Fractional dynamics and computational analysis of food chain model with disease in intermediate predator
Authors: Singh Jagdev , Ghanbari Behzad , Dubey Ved Prakash , Kumar Devendra , Nisar Kottakkaran Sooppy
Published: May 2024

In this paper, a fractional food chain system consisting of a Holling type Ⅱ functional response was studied in view of a fractional derivative operator. The considered fractional derivative operator provided nonsingular as well as a nonlocal kernel which was significantly better than other derivative operators. Fractional order modeling of a model was also useful to model the behavior of real systems and in the investigation of dynamical systems. This model depicted the relationship among four types of species: prey, susceptible intermediate predators (IP), infected intermediate predators, and apex predators. One of the significant aspects of this model was the inclusion of Michaelis-Menten type or Holling type Ⅱ functional response to represent the predator-prey link. A functional response depicted the rate at which the normal predator consumed the prey. The qualitative property and assumptions of the model were discussed in detail. The present work discussed the dynamics and analytical behavior of the food chain model in the context of fractional modeling. This study also examined the existence and uniqueness related analysis of solutions to the food chain system. In addition, the Ulam-Hyers stability approach was also discussed for the model. Moreover, the present work examined the numerical approach for the solution and simulation for the model with the help of graphical presentations.
Iacobus Gallus: Opus musicum I/2
Authors: Gallus Iacobus , Škulj Edo , Motnik Marko , Desmet Marc
Published: May 2024

From the very beginning, one of the most important and ambitious goals of the MAMS collection has been publication of the collected works of Iacobus Handl-Gallus in a modern transcription tailored to the needs of contemporary performers. The publication of his famous collection of motets, Opus musicum, consisting of four books containing a total of 374 motets, partially achieved this goal in 1990. The transcriptions and critical commentaries were prepared by Edo Škulj, and Gallus’s motets were published in thirteen volumes between 1985 and 1990. The edition is enriched by numerous facsimiles from Gallus’s original prints, published between 1586 and 1590 by the Prague printer Georg Nigrin (Jiří Černý).

The second volume (I/2) consists of motets for 4 to 12 voices, many of them for two or three choirs. The motets are intended for the Christmas season running from the feasts of the Nativity and the Circumcision up to the Feast of the Annunciation, or Epiphany.

The 2022 digitized post-edition is accompanied by a new preface and an introductory study by Dr Marc Desmet that summarizes and compiles all recent findings about the composer and his work. Gallus divided the first book of his Opus musicum (1586) into three sections, which have been retained in the MAMS edition.
Another Workflow Is Possible: Building Trust and Relinquishing Control for Multilingual Digital Publishing Futures
Authors: Risam Roopika
Published: May 2024

How can we build new multilingual futures for academic journals in the age of electronic publishing? The answer may lie in the multilingual pasts of scholarly publishing. This essay explores the historical trajectories of journal editing to examine how the figure of the "editor" today has evolved in relation to the changing landscape of research since the inception of scholarly periodicals. It begins by exploring early multilingual practices of journals in the 17th and 18th centuries. The essay continues by exploring how multilingualism remained a mainstay of journals even with the boom in journals of the 19th century that emerged from research gaining a foothold in higher education institutions. It then considers how journals of the 20th and 21st centuries lost their way and foreclosed linguistic diversity in the increasing drive towards disciplinarity and the neoliberalization of higher education. The essay argues that another editorial workflow is possible, one that productively negotiates the tension between editor as gatekeeper of publishing and editor as steward of knowledge production. As such, it makes the case for a new approach to the work of journal editing better positioned to facilitate linguistic diversity and equity in scholarly communications.
A Political Economy Analysis of Social Work’s Development in China: A Social Development Perspective
Authors: Meng Qian , Gray Mel
Published: May 2024

This paper examines the phenomenal growth of social work in China and the complexities and challenges faced by the profession and related stakeholders in the context of neoliberal economic practice within a hierarchical top-down political system. It proposes developmental social work as a viable indigenous social work practice mode. This analysis based on a collection of academic papers and relevant government reports sheds light on the interplay between welfare developmentalism, institutional dynamics, and professional challenges in the broader sociopolitical context, not least the neoliberal co-optation of social development aligned increasingly with economic goals to the detriment of broader social and structural issues. It shows how the political parameters of the Chinese Communist Party and its pursuit of community integration and social development shaped China’s approach to social work. It sees the necessity for a system of welfare services to address socio-structural issues and the indigenization and cultural adaption of social work in China as an expressly political process. Regarding the former, the government’s strategy of outsourcing public services to accord with its agenda has resulted in a contractual relationship between social organizations, including nongovernment and social work organizations, and the state. This has limited the independence and hindered the development of a strong civil society, and curtailed social workers’ autonomy, exacerbating professional challenges relating inter alia to the low number of qualified social work practitioners, limited job opportunities outside major urban centers, high staff turnover, and poor quality services provided by those without formal social work training. To enhance professional recognition in China, the paper suggests a holistic developmental approach that involves the resolution of individual problems through investing in people, helping them to build their capacity, drawing on social capital, and capitalizing on market opportunities to promote self-reliance, thereby contributing to community and social development.
Reflections on How Social Protection and Social Welfare Policies are Unfolding in Low- and Middle-Income Countries around the World
Authors: Patel Lelia
Published: May 2024

Social protection in the form of cash transfers to reduce poverty and inequality is described as the “big idea” that emerged in the Global South over the past three decades. This article reflects on the direction that social protection is taking and reviews its achievements. A key challenge is how social protection policies are delinked from a wider system of social welfare and development programs in low- and middle-income countries. Drawing on lessons learned from cross-country studies, pointers are provided on how to overcome this bifurcation, including ways of strengthening social development theory, policy, and practice.
Early Beginnings of AI
Authors: Anurag A. S.
Published: May 2024

The history of artificial intelligence is complicated. We cannot pinpoint where it all started. Some might say it began in the 1956 Dartmouth Conference when John McCarthy and his peers coined the term ‘artificial intelligence' for the first time. The term ‘robot' was coined in a Sci-Fi Play in 1920. We can find hints of similar ideas in ancient myths and scriptures, ideas about automata and intelligent creatures forged by men. AI is a vast and fascinating subject. The chapter presents an overview of the history of artificial intelligence. It also talks about the emergence and different sub-branches of AI and the theoretical foundation, frameworks, and theories related to them. After that its applications in the modern world and the challenges and Risks are also discussed.
Capitalizing the Retail Industry by Automation and Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Authors: Mishra A. B. , Satarkar Mithila , Joshi Sanat
Published: May 2024

IKEA was formed in a remote corner of Sweden, where it was difficult to contact potential clients in larger towns. Is currently serving over 775 million clients worldwide and has a presence in 35 countries. 1IKEA is the best illustration of phygital transformation as a combination of physical plus digital, i.e., merging digital experiences with physical ones. Technology is the requirement of the twenty-first century. IKEA has established a physical and digital presence through the use of technology. IKEA mixes AR (augmented reality) and VR (virtual reality), which is a fundamental cause for the company's success. This is the case study on strong emphasis on capitalizing market potential of the retail industry by automation and artificial intelligence (AI). The entire research was based on secondary data.
Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Gutiw Diane , Sorg Jens M. , Rodriguez Gabriela Cruz
Published: May 2024

The potential of the rapidly evolving artificial intelligence (AI) technology is truly limitless and the increasing integration of AI in our day-to-day tools and services is making the impact of AI on society inevitable. This inevitability makes the need to advance AI in a responsible manner. AI development must apply rigor and risk management to ensure solutions are accurate, inclusive, transparent, and safe, ensuring ethical standards and the responsible use of AI. Responsible use principles help ensure robust, reliable, and transparent AI which increases trust in the solutions which is critical to apply change management (the adoption and acceptance) efforts for organizations that want to embrace this.
Financial and Economic Analysis of Sustainable Practices for Green Computing
Authors: Nandhakumar M. , Kavitha C. , K. P. Rajimol , Sri R Ramya , Anandakumar S. , Boopathi S.
Published: May 2024

This chapter delves into the financial and economic aspects of implementing sustainable green computing practices, examining their cost implications, potential savings, and long-term benefits. It explores the economic feasibility of green computing strategies through a comprehensive analysis of sustainability initiatives such as energy-efficient hardware, optimized data center operations, and recycling programs. It also explores how businesses can effectively balance environmental responsibility with financial performance through strategic investment decisions and resource allocation. It assesses the economic impact of sustainable computing practices, considering operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and brand reputation. It offers decision-makers actionable insights for incorporating sustainability into computing operations while maximizing financial returns through a thorough financial and economic analysis.
Delivery Garbage Behavior Detection Based on Deep Learning
Authors: LU Zhengqing , Zhou Jiajie , Wang ChaoWei , Zhou Zhihong , Shi Guoliang , Yin Ying
Published: May 2024

In the context of rapid urbanization, the challenge of effective garbage disposal has become increasingly significant. Traditional methods for addressing illegal littering by pedestrians are not only inefficient but also resource-intensive, demanding considerable manpower and materials. This study introduces a deep learning-based approach for detecting improper garbage disposal behavior. Leveraging advanced deep learning technologies, this approach focuses on object detection, tracking, and human posture analysis to identify and alert against illegal dumping activities captured in video footage, specifically targeting incidents outside designated times or areas. The primary aim is to facilitate prompt detection and mitigate associated health risks. The system uses three deep learning models, YOLOv5, DeepSORT and MobilePose. YOLOv5 is used to identify the human body and garbage bag, DeepSORT is used to track the two, and MobilePose identifies the key points of the human body for posture estimation. The tracking algorithm is used to determine whether to throw garbage.
Sustainable Marketing and Its Promotion
Authors: Mandal Pratap Chandra
Published: May 2024

Companies and businesses generate revenues and profits for themselves. The present business scenario demands that apart from ensuring consumer welfare and achieving excellence in the competition, companies should be sensitive towards and should empathize with the well-being of the society at large. The objective of the study is to analyze the promotion of sustainable marketing. The methodology adopted is a conceptual analysis of the various aspects of sustainable marketing. Companies should create and maintain a sustainable society and physical environment for the present and the future generations. Consumerism and environmentalism are responsibilities of both consumers and businesses. Companies should realize their responsibilities towards creating and maintaining a sustainable environment and should be aware about the adverse effects of businesses on the environment. They adopt several strategies, initiatives, and sustainability vision towards creating a sustainable society and environment for future generations. The discussions will sensitize all concerned stakeholders about the importance of sustainability and of promoting sustainable marketing and their roles and responsibilities towards the society. They will be encouraged towards adopting sustainable marketing practices.
Examining the Usefulness of Customer Reviews for Mobile Applications
Authors: Jiang Zhiying , Liu Vanessa , Erne Miriam
Published: May 2024

In the context of mobile applications (apps), the role of customers has been transformed from mere passive adopters to active co-creators through contribution of user reviews. However, customers might not always possess the required technical expertise to make commercially feasible suggestions. The value of customer reviews also varied due to their unmanageable volume and content irrelevance. In our study, over 189,000 user reviews with over 50 apps would be analyzed using review analysis and multivariate regression analysis to examine the impacts of innovation and improvement led by customers on app performance in terms of app revenues. The developers' lead time in responding to user reviews would be included as a moderator to investigate whether app performance would be enhanced if developers respond faster. This study should represent one of the first few attempts in offering empirical confirmation of the value of co-creation of apps with customers. The authors also present methodological contributions by establishing operationalization and analyses of user reviews.
To Evaluate and Compare the Microtensile Bond Strength of Dentine with the Use of Two-Step and One-Step Adhesives
Authors: Patel Niharika , Kanaparthy Aruna , Kanaparthy Rosaiah
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

In the evolving world of adhesive dentistry, there has always been controversy regarding the adhesive system to be used for superior clinical performance, and clinicians often find themselves in a dilemma with so many products on the market. It, therefore, becomes necessary to know the various properties of different adhesive systems and their comparative analysis.

Materials and Methods:

Thirty, intact, non-carious and unrestored human mandibular premolars, which were extracted for orthodontic purposes were taken for the study. Teeth were divided into two groups A and B having 15 teeth in each group. The inclusion criteria were that the teeth should be non-carious, unrestored and should have been extracted for orthodontic purposes. Excluded teeth were those with caries, restorations, attrition, cracks and developmental defects. The teeth were embedded in resin, occlusal enamel was removed and the teeth were restored with composite resin using two different approaches for bonding. Teeth of Group A were bonded using single bond and teeth of Group B were bonded using Clearfil S3 Bond and were then sectioned to produce beams with an approximate cross-sectional area of 4 mm × 4 mm. These sections were mounted to a custom acrylic jig and subjected to microtensile bond strength testing using a universal testing machine with a cross head speed of 1 mm/min and stressed to de-bonding of the composite resin from the tooth.

Results:

Data were subjected to statistical analysis and evaluated using the analysis of variance test and Tukey's test which showed that single bond or two-step adhesive showed higher microtensile bond strength to dentine.

Conclusion:

The two-step single bond performed better than the one-step Clearfil S3, but the result was statistically non-significant.
The Beginning of a New Era
Authors: Nandini C , Basha Shaik , Agarawal Aarchi , Neelampari R Parikh , Miyapuram Krishna P , Nileshwariba R Jadeja
Published: May 2024

Intelligence is one of the vital qualities of the human brain, and it has been sometimes defined as the capacity to learn and understand new things, the ability to apply knowledge to manipulate one's environment or to think abstractly. When a machine is trained to learn and perform tasks in such a humanoid manner, it is referred to as the 'Artificial intelligence (AI)'. AI is likely to transform the way we live and work. The exponential growth of knowledge in the field of AI and its branches in the past decade has created new opportunities for its utilisation in the field of healthcare, including pathology. Successful application of these powerful tools in pathology and medicine requires cross-disciplinary literacy, including basic knowledge and understanding of concepts that have traditionally been unfamiliar to pathologists. This review provides definitions and basic knowledge of AI and its component branches such as machine learning, artificial neural networks and deep learning. This review also throws light on the possible applications of AI and the associated challenges in mainstream oral pathological research and diagnosis.
An Evidence-based Review on Host Modulatory Agents in Treatment of Peri-Implant Disease
Authors: Andharia Mudra , Rai Jasuma , Shah Monali , Sonavane Priyanka
Published: May 2024

Antimicrobials have traditionally been the only chemotherapeutic option for treating periodontitis and peri-implant disorders. With a growing understanding of the host–pathogen interactions in periodontal pathogenesis, novel therapeutic options for periodontitis and peri-implant disorders are developed by focusing on the host response with host-modulating drugs. When employed as host-modifying agents, a variety of sub-antimicrobial dose doxycycline (SDD), bisphosphonates and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were found to be successful in both experimental animal research and human trials. The current state and future prospects of host modulatory agents used to treat peri-implant disease are discussed in this evidence-based review.
Assessment of Immunomorphological Patterns in Metastatic and Non-Metastatic Lymph Nodes of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Patients
Authors: Jadeja Nileshwariba , Parikh Neelampari , Nandini C
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

Metastasis in oral epidermoid carcinoma oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) can occur differently. Lymph nodes and lymphatics which drain the tumour site, serve as the most common pathway for metastasis. Lymph nodes serve as a marker of the immune status of the patient, which in response to a metastatic event, may facilitate or resist the homing of tumour cells. This host immune response is identified by examining various immunoreactive patterns in the lymph node.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 100 cases of OSCC underwent radical neck dissection and were assessed for grading of tumour histology, immunomorphological patterns (IMPs) in metastatic and non-metastatic lymph nodes as well as the pattern of tumour involvement in positive lymph nodes. All the lymph nodes were histologically evaluated and were grouped as metastatic and non-metastatic lymph nodes, showing four different patterns lymphocyte predominance (LP) pattern, germinal centre predominance (GCP) pattern, sinus histiocytosis (SH) pattern and lymphocyte depleted pattern. Metastatic positive nodes were further evaluated for the pattern of tumour cell invasion within the lymph node.

Results:

A total number of 1167 lymph nodes were histologically evaluated. Out of all, 239 lymph nodes were positive for metastasis and 928 were non-metastatic nodes. The most frequently encountered lymph node pattern was of LP (854 nodes), followed by GCP (157 nodes), SH (120 nodes) and lymphocyte depleted (36 nodes), respectively. Out of 1167, 239 nodes were positive for metastasis, indicating that as the stage advances, the GCP type predominates (the predominant IMP shifts from LP to GCP), so that facilitating or favouring metastasis. Moreover, the most common pattern seen in metastatic deposits observed was islands/sheets followed by strands/cords.

Conclusion:

IMPs of regional lymph nodes of OSCCs seem to be an essential factor in serving as a prognostic indicator. Whereas the cell-mediated immune response represented by LP and SH resist the metastasis process, the humoral reflected by GCP favours metastasis.
Distribution of Alveolar Bone Defects Associated with Periodontitis
Authors: Sachdeva Shivani V. , Mani Amit , Phadnaik Mangesh B. , Saluja Harish
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

Periodontal disease is one of the most widespread diseases of humankind. It is a chronic destructive infectious disease that involves the resorption of bone supporting the teeth. The purpose of this study was to analyse the prevalence and distribution of different forms of bone defects amongst different demographics in the Indian population.

Materials and Methods:

The study population comprised 44 patients of different age groups with moderate and severe periodontitis chronic periodontitis. A total sample of 1041 teeth were explored surgically and classified into suprabony, infrabony, inter-radicular and other bone defects. This study focuses on the differences in the distribution of various bone defects between different groups of age and gender.

Results:

Amongst 1041 teeth, the prevalence of bone defects was 97%. Craters and intrabony defects were almost equal for the age groups of 31–40 years and 41–50 years. However, in the age group of 51–60 years, craters comprised 33.3%, and intrabony defects comprised 66.7%. Males had two times more 3-wall defects than females.

Conclusion:

The present study reveals that there is a need for applying epidemiological principles to periodontal bone defects in order to better understand the natural history of periodontal disease and eradicate the factors responsible for their commencement and progression. The following research article has been presented at the 2nd international congress of the World Academy of Growth Factors and Stem Cells in Dentistry 25–27 October 2018.
Audit of Quality Indicators of Cytology
Authors: Sinha Snigdha , Das Subhashish , Kalyani R
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

At present, clinical laboratories play a vital role in diagnosing and providing quality treatment. Various quality control (QC) and quality assurance (QA), including the pre-analytical and post-analytical variables, were taken into consideration for the internal quality indicators in the department of cytopathology of our institution. The aim of this study is to evaluate the importance of QC and QA parameters in the routine work of the cytopathology laboratory.

Materials and Methods:

This is a prospective cross-sectional study of 24 months duration. A total of 15,520 were evaluated for quality parameters.

Results:

A total of 15,520 cytology cases were evaluated. The cyto-histo correlation, non-conformities, TAT, Repeats and redo's, critical value, quality of staining and revised report rate were noted and identified with relevant statistical analysis.

Conclusion:

Routine QC and QA will ensure better diagnostic services and promote accreditation of laboratory activities.
Incidentally detected large ventricular thrombus on echocardiography
Authors: REDDY PARVATHAREDDY KRISHNA MALA KONDA , MAALE SAITEJ REDDY , NAGULA PRAVEEN , RAVI SRINIVAS
Published: May 2024

Ventricular thrombus is a major risk factor for systemic thromboembolism. It complicates both acute and chronic phases of ischemic heart disease (IHD) and, less frequently, non-ischemic cardiomyopathies. However, ventricular thrombus does not always manifest with thromboembolism. Advances in technology, especially the echocardiography, have improved the detection rates of intracardiac thrombi. Regarding the management, there are several uncertainties to date. We present six varied cases with incidental detection of ventricular thrombus on echocardiography with no clinically evident embolism at admission. Of the six cases, three patients had embolic complications after initiation of systemic anticoagulation.
Cardiovascular involvement in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia
Authors: ROY RAMMOHAN , MAJI BAISAKHI , RAY YOGIRAJ , SINHA ARIJIT
Published: May 2024

Background:

Covid 19 pneumonia presents with various cardiovascular manifestations. The proposed mechanisms of cardiovascular involvement in COVID-19 are direct invasion of myocardial cell by the virus, hyper- inflammatory state secondary to cytokine storm, increased angiotensin II, low ACE2 levels, antiphospholipid antibodies and increased platelet reactivity which contribute significantly to thrombus formation in systemic and pulmonary vasculature.

Objectives:

To find out various cardiovascular manifestation of patients admitted with covid 19 pneumonia.

Methodology:

A retrospective observational study had been conducted in a tertiary care infectious disease hospital from July 2020 to December 2020 that included a total of 108 patients.

Results:

Most common risk factor were combination of hypertension and diabetes(40.7%) followed by hypertension alone (28.7%)and diabetes in 18.5% patients. Most common presentation was asymptomatic myocarditis found in 37 patients followed by sinus tachycardia in 34, sinus bradycardia in 18, Orthostatic hypotensionin in 16, Atrial fibrillation in 14, cerebrovascular accident in 9, Acute limb ischemia in 7, and acute coronary syndrome in 4 patients. Asymptomatic diastolic dysfunction (Grade 2 or more) found in 17 patients without any overt features of heart failure (all have raised NTproBNP and HSTrop I along with clinical features). A positive correlation was found between D- dimer level and severity of pneumonia by CT severity score.

Conclusion:

A high index of suspicion and necessary investigation may be needed for early detection of myocarditis and to prevent any complication particularly fatal arrhythmia and sudden cardiac death.
Clinical significance and postoperative outcomes after pulmonary vein isolation for atrial fibrillation in mitral valve surgery
Authors: Desai Devvrat , Kakkar Deepti
Published: May 2024

Atrial fibrillation is the most common tachyarrhythmia associated with mitral valve disease, resulting in significant morbidity and mortality. Atrial fibrillation is a marker of advanced cardiovascular disease and an independent predictor of death. As a large number of patients undergoing mitral valve operations are associated with chronic atrial fibrillation, pulmonary vein isolation procedure with cut and sew method can be concomitantly performed with a mitral valve operation and it is enough to improve the quality of life after operation by eliminating the morbidity associated with chronic atrial fibrillation. The aim of this study is to find out the immediate postoperative outcomes of the patients with known mitral valve disease with atrial fibrillation who are undergoing mitral valve surgery with concomitant pulmonary vein isolation at our institution. The perioperative risk factors such as older age, duration of atrial fibrillation, the size of the left atrium, and the mitral valve pathology were evaluated for their clinical significance. Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative variables were retrieved and analyzed retrospectively. The outcomes were compared between these subgroups using various statistical tools. Conversion to normal sinus rhythm was more significant in the younger age group (<45 years) as compared to the older age group. Seventy-eight percent patients (n = 117) were free from atrial fibrillation at the time of discharge. The overall mortality was 4% (n = 6). There was no procedure-related death.
Recent trends, clinical characteristics, and outcome of infective endocarditis among intravenous drug users of a tertiary hospital in the east region of Malaysia
Authors: MOHD SAID MOHD RIDZUAN , FIRDAUS MOHD AL-BAQLISH MOHD , JALIL MUHAMMAD ATEEQ MD , IBRAHIM ISMAIL , WAN RAMLI WAN NURLIYANA , ZAKARIA NURUL AULIA
Published: May 2024

Background:

Infective endocarditis (IE) is an infection affecting the endocardial lining and contributed to socioeconomic burden due to prolonged admission, invasive procedure, and expensive treatment. The high prevalence of intravenous drug user intravenous drug user (IVDU) shifts the paradigm of the disease, and thus, we aim to determine the clinical characteristics, outcome, and inhospital mortality of IE among IVDU patients.

Materials and Methodology:

This is a retrospective cohort by analyzing case records for IVDU patients admitted to Hospital Tengku Ampuan Afzan diagnosed with IE from January 2014 until June 2017.

Results:

A total of 32 patients were included, with a median age of 35 years old (standard deviation: 6.5). Only 56.3% presented with fever, whereas most of them complained of nonspecific symptoms such as reduced exercise tolerance (59.4%) and weight loss (56.3%). Seventy-five percent had concomitant hepatitis C, but only 6.3% of them were HIV positive. Valvular heart disease accounted for 46.9%, while chronic rheumatic heart diseases and previous IE infection accounted for 28.1% and 18.8%, respectively. For microbiological characteristics, Staphylococcus aureus accounted for 62.5%, followed by streptococci (15.4%) and others (2%). The most common valve affected in IVDU was tricuspid valve (62.5%), followed by mitral valve (21.9%) and pulmonary valve (9.4%). Furthermore, mortality was reported at 25%, while severe valvular complications (62.5%) were observed with elevated episodes of emboli (62.5%) and cardiogenic shock (40.6%).

Conclusion:

Hence, IVDU is an essential predictive factor and is associated with various severe complications and thus warranted for aggressive preventive measurement to reduce the morbidity.
Coronary endarterectomy – A way to complete revascularization
Authors: Patel Herin , Gohil Ishan , Kothari Jignesh , Shah Pratik
Published: May 2024

Background and Aim of the Study:

Coronary endarterectomy (CE) is performed adjacent to coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) grafting to aid complete revascularization. However, the purpose of CE in surgical management of diffuse coronary artery disease (CAD) is controversial. The objective of this study was to highlight the operative outcomes, safety, and complications associated with CE.

Methods:

An observational, prospective research was carried out in the Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery at our institute. All patients undergoing isolated CABG + CE from 2019 till 2021 were evaluated. Patients undergoing urgent, emergency, or elective CABG + CE off-pump/on-pump surgery were enrolled.

Results:

One hundred patients with CABG + CE were evaluated based on symptomatology with sequential electrocardiogram monitoring and blood samples for cardiac biomarkers. The blood samples were taken 6, 12, 24, 48, and 72 h following surgery. Eighty-five patients required single CE and 15 patients required double CE. We noticed a rising trend of cardiac markers in the first 6 h, reaching its peak level at 24 h, and downward trend following 72 h following surgery. Although patients had a tremendous rise in the cardiac biomarker values, clinically patients were stable with operative mortality of 5%.

Conclusions:

We believe CE helps in complete revascularization in patients with diffuse CAD. CE should be given due consideration in an era where it has been neglected due to its complexities and accompanying myths. CE is an important and integral weapon in a surgeon's armamentarium, and we should not hesitate to perform CE due to associated myths.