bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deep reinforcement learning framework for controlling infectious disease outbreaks in the context of multi-jurisdictions
Authors: Khatami Seyedeh Nazanin , Gopalappa Chaitra
Published: June 2023

In the absence of pharmaceutical interventions, social distancing and lockdown have been key options for controlling new or reemerging respiratory infectious disease outbreaks. The timely implementation of these interventions is vital for effectively controlling and safeguarding the economy.Motivated by the COVID-19 pandemic, we evaluated whether, when, and to what level lockdowns are necessary to minimize epidemic and economic burdens of new disease outbreaks. We formulated the question as a sequential decision-making Markov Decision Process and solved it using deep Q-network algorithm. We evaluated the question under two objective functions: a 2-objective function to minimize economic burden and hospital capacity violations, suitable for diseases with severe health risks but with minimal death, and a 3-objective function that additionally minimizes the number of deaths, suitable for diseases that have high risk of mortality.A key feature of the model is that we evaluated the above questions in the context of two-geographical jurisdictions that interact through travel but make autonomous and independent decisions, evaluating under cross-jurisdictional cooperation and non-cooperation. In the 2-objective function under cross-jurisdictional cooperation, the optimal policy was to aim for shutdowns at 50 and 25% per day. Though this policy avoided hospital capacity violations, the shutdowns extended until a large proportion of the population reached herd immunity. Delays in initiating this optimal policy or non-cooperation from an outside jurisdiction required shutdowns at a higher level of 75% per day, thus adding to economic burdens. In the 3-objective function, the optimal policy under cross-jurisdictional cooperation was to aim for shutdowns of up to 75% per day to prevent deaths by reducing infected cases. This optimal policy continued for the entire duration of the simulation, suggesting that, until pharmaceutical interventions such as treatment or vaccines become available, contact reductions through physical distancing would be necessary to minimize deaths. Deviating from this policy increased the number of shutdowns and led to several deaths.In summary, we present a decision-analytic methodology for identifying optimal lockdown strategy under the context of interactions between jurisdictions that make autonomous and independent decisions. The numerical analysis outcomes are intuitive and, as expected, serve as proof of the feasibility of such a model. Our sensitivity analysis demonstrates that the optimal policy exhibits robustness to minor alterations in the transmission rate, yet shows sensitivity to more substantial deviations. This finding underscores the dynamic nature of epidemic parameters, thereby emphasizing the necessity for models trained across a diverse range of values to ensure effective policy-making.
Optimal real-time power dispatch of power grid with wind energy forecasting under extreme weather
Authors: Zhuo Yixin , Li Ling , Tang Jian , Meng Wenchuan , Huang Zhanhong , Huang Kui , Hu Jiaqiu , Qin Yiming , Zhan Houjian , Liang Zhencheng
Published: June 2023

With breakthroughs in the power electronics industry, the stability and rapid power regulation of wind power generation have been improved. Its power generation technology is becoming more and more mature. However, there are still weaknesses in the operation and control of power systems under the influence of extreme weather events, especially in real-time power dispatch. To optimally distribute the power of the regulation resources in a more stable manner, a wind energy forecasting-based power dispatch model with time-control intervals optimization is proposed. In this model, the outage of the wind energy under extreme weather is analyzed by an autoregressive integrated moving average model (ARIMA). Additionally, the other regulation resources are used to balance the corresponding wind power drop and power mismatch. Meanwhile, an algorithm names weighted mean of vectors (INFO) is employed to solve the real-time power dispatch and minimize the power deviation between the power command and real output. Lastly, the performance of the proposed optimal real-time power dispatch is executed in a simulation model with ten regulation resources. The simulation tests show that the combination of ARIMA and INFO can effectively improve the power control performance of the PD-WEF system.
Optimal control and stability analysis of an age-structured SEIRV model with imperfect vaccination
Authors: Kumar Manoj , Abbas Syed , Tridane Abdessamad
Published: June 2023

Vaccination programs are crucial for reducing the prevalence of infectious diseases and ultimately eradicating them. A new age-structured SEIRV (S-Susceptible, E-Exposed, I-Infected, R-Recovered, V-Vaccinated) model with imperfect vaccination is proposed. After formulating our model, we show the existence and uniqueness of the solution using semigroup of operators. For stability analysis, we obtain a threshold parameter $ R_0 $. Through rigorous analysis, we show that if $ R_0 < 1 $, then the disease-free equilibrium point is stable. The optimal control strategy is also discussed, with the vaccination rate as the control variable. We derive the optimality conditions, and the form of the optimal control is obtained using the adjoint system and sensitivity equations. We also prove the uniqueness of the optimal controller. To visually illustrate our theoretical results, we also solve the model numerically.
Contribution des données de surveillance maritime à la Planification de l’Espace Maritime français : entre potentiels techniques et contraintes politiques
Authors: Dupont Clément , Gourmelon Françoise , Meur-Ferec Catherine , Herpers Frédérick , Le Visage Christophe
Published: June 2023

La Planification de l’Espace Maritime (PEM), plébiscitée autour du globe comme un levier du développement durable en mer, s’illustre en pratique comme une nouvelle forme de négociation pour l’usage de l’espace maritime et de ses ressources. Pour alimenter et conforter la prise de décisions partagées, la PEM suscite un fort besoin d’information sur les dynamiques spatiotemporelles des activités maritimes existantes. Dans ce contexte, la surveillance maritime opérée en temps réel par l’État (défense, suivi des pêches) s’inscrit comme une source stratégique de données (AIS, VMS et radar) et d’informations au profit de la planification. Si l’exploitation de ces données fait l’objet d’un intérêt croissant de la part de la communauté scientifique, leur contribution effective à la planification en mer demeure marginale. Cet article en identifie les principales raisons à partir d’une enquête par entretiens semi-directifs réalisée auprès de 38 acteurs de la PEM française. Il met en lumière deux principaux freins à l’exploitation opérationnelle des données : d’une part, leur accessibilité limitée pour de nombreux acteurs, notamment publics ; d’autre part, le défaut d’acceptabilité de la part des usagers historiques de l’espace maritime face à leur mobilisation. Ces résultats illustrent la dimension fondamentalement politique que revêt l’information géographique dans le cadre de la PEM, et plaident pour une désensibilisation progressive de l’usage des données de surveillance, devenues cruciales dans un contexte de concurrence spatiale grandissante entre acteurs maritimes.
The Social Media Big Data Analysis for Demand Forecasting in the Context of Globalization
Authors: Gao Yifang , Wang Junwei , Li Zhi , Peng Zengjun
Published: June 2023

This paper aims to analyze the predictive effect of artificial intelligence on user demand in big data social media and to provide suggestions for developing enterprise innovation frameworks and implementing marketing strategies. In response to the inconsistency between the supply of enterprise products and services and market demand, deep learning algorithms have been introduced using social media big data analysis. This algorithm has been improved to construct a user demand prediction model in social media big data based on bidirectional long short-term memory (BiLSTM) fused with Word2Vec. The model uses data acquisition and pre-processing, Word2Vec algorithm to vectorization the data information, and BiLSTM network to model and train the sequence. Finally, the model is evaluated as an example.
Forensic approach towards criminal use of mercury in domestic violence
Authors: Sinha S. , Rao K. , Rawat A.
Published: June 2023

The prevalence of criminal cases against women is not first-hand with statistical data from the National Crime Records Bureau in India proclaiming an even rise in cases of domestic violence. Despite numerous laws to protect women against various crimes including rape, sexual harassment, dowry death, etc., there is less respite from violence toward women in India. Indian society needs to stand up and address the existence of many socio-cultural reasons for crime against women apart from literacy to lower these crime statistics. Forensic experts play a pivotal role in the scientific examination of evidence to support the criminal justice system which in the end affects the lives of millions of female victims. A case of attempted domestic homicide is presented wherein a 21-year-old married female was poisoned with some unknown substance laced in her milk by her in-laws. This case is of interest to the scientific community as well as to persons working within the medical and judiciary fraternity.Case history: A married woman aged 21 years alleged her in-laws including her husband of attempt to murder her by giving her milk laced with some unknown substance. She had severe vomiting after drinking milk where she noticed some shining materials in the vomitus. The vomitus and the gastric lavage were analyzed subsequently.Methodology: Physical and Chemical Examinations including visual analysis and solubility, odour, etc were initially conducted on the exhibits (Gastric Lavage and Vomitus samples) and results were further confirmed by Atomic Absorption Spectrometry.Results: An abnormally high level of mercury i.e. 9.88 ppm and 332.15 ppm were detected in Gastric lavage and vomitus respectively.Conclusion: The various scientific investigations determined that the female had been poisoned by using mercury justifying the essential role of forensics in linking shreds of evidence scientifically.
Circumstances of fatal road traffic accidents among adolescents in a metro city of India
Authors: Das I. , Bag K. , Bag N. , Manna D. , Chatterjee S.
Published: June 2023

Road Traffic Accident (RTA) is an important public health problem globally in all age groups, particularly among adolescents. RTA is one of the leading causes of death in India. The long-term impact of RTA among adolescents is serious in society in terms of economy, disease burden, and future productivity.This study attempts to find out the circumstances of fatal road traffic accidents among adolescents in a metro city in India.This is an observational descriptive cross-sectional study, conducted at an autopsy center in Kolkata, India for a period of one year. Data were obtained from reports of post-mortem examinations and police inquests of fatal road traffic accidents in adolescents, reported to the institute. The data was compiled in Microsoft Excel and analysed by using a simple table.The total number of RTA deaths among adolescents during the study period was 45, with 91% of them male and 9% female. The most common offending vehicle in RTA deaths was a motorized two-wheeler (71%). 91% of the deceased were riders while 9% were pillion riders. 59% of them were below the age (18 years) of obtaining a valid driving license. The majority had collided with stationary objects during the RTA and died due to head injury (52%).
ChatGPT: To cite or not to cite?
Authors: Ekanayake Kasun Bandara
Published: June 2023

No abstract available
A Geospatial and Socio-economic Assessment of Tree Density in Home Gardens as Trees Outside Forests Sources in Agro-ecological Regions: Upper Mahaweli Catchment, Sri Lanka
Authors: Hearath H. M. B. S. , Pushpakumara D. K. N. G. , Hewson M. , Wickramagamage P.
Published: June 2023

Homegardens (HGs) serve as crucial 'Trees Outside Forest Sources' (TOFS) systems, offsetting tree cover loss resulting from extensive deforestation in the Upper Mahaweli Catchment (UMC) over the past two centuries. This study examined the temporal and spatial distribution of HGs in relation to agro-ecological regions (AERs) within the UMC boundary, assessed the tree density of HGs, and analyzed the biophysical and socio-economic factors influencing tree density. Geospatial assessment utilized Landsat Images and tree density estimation was based on a random sample of 500 HGs in the UMC with a minimum diameter at breast height (dbh) of >10cm. Regression analysis was employed to identify factors affecting tree density. The spatial assessment revealed that in 2017, the AER of IM3a covered the highest percentage area (66.5%) whereas IM1a recorded the greatest incremental percentage change (22.8%) from 1992-2017, while the lowest change was observed in IL2 (0.03%). The highest tree density was observed in IU2 (858 trees/ha), and the average density in WM2a (505 trees/ha), comparable to that of South-Asian tropical rainforests. However, there is a concerning trend of rapid spread of exotic species contributing to the high tree density observed in IU2, WM2a, and IU3d. The multiple linear regression model (p<0.01, R2 = 58.62%) indicated spatial, agronomic and institutional factors positively influenced tree density. Conversely, the HG area square, and demographic factors had a significant negative impact on tree diversity (p<0.01). To ensure the ecological sustainability of the UMC, the study proposes to introduce an appropriate incentive package to enhance tree density in HGs, with native species.
An Introduction to Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses
Authors: Rao Shripada C.
Published: June 2023

A high quality systematic review with meta-analysis is considered to provide a high level of evidence in health-care research. It is important to follow rigorous methodology while conducting a systematic review and reporting its findings. To minimize the chances of error and bias, at least two (preferably 3–4) authors should be involved at all stages of the conduct of a systematic review. Registering the protocol on open websites such as PROSPERO is essential to enable transparency and scientific rigor. Important steps are writing the protocol, conducting detailed literature search through multiple databases, identifying studies that meet strict inclusion criteria, abstracting the data, contacting authors to obtain additional information, assessing the risk of bias of included studies, synthesizing evidence qualitatively, conducting meta-analysis using appropriate statistical models, assessing publication bias and heterogeneity, exploring heterogeneity through sensitivity and subgroup analyses, grading the certainty of evidence following the GRADE framework, reporting using the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses guidelines, describing the limitations and providing implications for clinical practice and future research. Clinicians should evaluate the credibility of systematic reviews prior to applying their results in clinical practice. This article provides a brief introduction to the methodology of systematic reviews and meta-analyses and also provides links to some high-quality free resources for prospective systematic reviewers.
Journey of a denture through the gastrointestinal tract
Authors: Kejriwal Bhavya , Srinivasappa Rakesh , Dey Ashish , Malik Vinod K.
Published: June 2023

Foreign-body ingestion and its complications are widely reported and discussed in literature. However, ingested foreign body causing a large-bowel perforation is extremely rare. We present a case of a 49-year-old man who presented to us with complaints of abdominal pain, abdominal distension, fever and obstipation. The patient gave a history of accidental swallowing of his dentures 11 days back. The patient presented with shock in the emergency department and X-ray erect abdomen showed massive air under the diaphragm. The patient was taken for urgent exploratory laparotomy where a sigmoid perforation with ingested denture at the perforation site was found. The perforation was repaired, and a diverting ileostomy was made. The patient had an uneventful post-operative period and was discharged subsequently.
26 years of experience in medical records from 1996 to 2022
Authors: Jena Suvendu Sekhar , Tiwari Parmanand , Nundy Samiran
Published: June 2023

The importance of maintaining medical records has been well proved and is evident by the advances in this field over the centuries, but in spite of this, record maintenance in India is poor. In this article, we discuss the history of medical record maintenance worldwide and in India as well as its importance. We finally describe our own experience in record maintenance over the last 26 years which was done in a resource-poor setting.
Coronavirus fear assessment using the modified COVID-19 fear scale among Indian dentists practicing in the Delhi NCR region
Authors: Kaur Harsimran , Karabale Nikita , Dhawan Pankaj , Kakar Era , Kakar Ashish
Published: June 2023

Background:

Recently, numerous surveys have been conducted amongst different communities to assess the fear of coronavirus diseases-2019 (COVID-19), using the Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19) scale. Currently, there is a spot within the literature published regarding fear of COVID-19 amongst dentists, and hence, we conducted a questionnaire-based survey to assess the fear of COVID-19 amongst dentists practicing in India.

Aim:

Assessment of coronavirus fear amongst Indian dentists practicing in the Delhi NCR region using the modified FCV-19.

Materials and Methods:

A questionnaire was formulated using FCV-19S, which gathered the demographic data and fear in relation to COVID-19. Except for the seven-item FCV-19S, three questions were formulated for dentists particularly. The responses were recorded on a five-point Likert scale, starting from strongly disagree to strongly agree. Dentists residing in the Delhi NCR region and above 18 years old were included in the study.

Results:

A total of 202 responses were obtained, which were considered for the survey analysis. The results obtained after the compilation of the information were subjected to one-way analysis of variance test, and post-hoc Tukey Bonferroni tests were used for multiple comparisons. The study population comprised 65.8% of females and 34.2% of males, with approximately 68.3% belonging to the 18–30 years age group. The t-test for total fear and gender shows total fear score was 18.85 with standard deviation = 6.23.

Conclusion:

The study suggests that the population associated with healthcare showed lower levels of fear and anxiety than the general population. The fear of COVID-19 has reduced over a period of time due to the awareness of the disease and vaccination. Media plays a significant role in the psychological aspect of the person, irrespective of the profession, which leads to certain disturbances like lack of sleep. More than 50% of dentists agree that the use of precautionary protocols in our dental practice can reduce the risk of getting infected.
Bi-directional screening for COVID-19, tuberculosis and diabetes in flu, DOTS and NCD clinics in a rural hospital in Northern India
Authors: Rajan Shruthi , Kathirvel Soundappan , Rehman Tanveer
Published: June 2023

Introduction:

To assess the status of bi-directional screening for COVID-19, tuberculosis and diabetes among people attending Non-communicable Disease (NCD), Directly Observed Treatment Short-course (DOTS), and flu clinics of a secondary care hospital in rural northern India.

Material and Methods:

A cross-sectional, analytical study was conducted among the eligible (aged ≥18 years) population who attended the study clinics in a rural sub-district hospital. In the flu clinic, consecutive patients were assessed for screening for TB (symptom-based) and diabetes (random blood sugar) and status of referral to DOTS and NCD clinics. Similarly, the screening for diabetes and COVID-19, Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) in the DOTS clinic, and TB and COVID-19 in the NCD clinic were assessed. The independent association of factors with COVID-19 positivity were assessed by calculating the adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) at 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results:

Of the 405 people assessed, 279 (68.9%), 102 (25.2%), and 24 (5.9%) were from flu, NCD, and DOTS clinics, respectively. 26 (25.5%) and 22 (91.7%) of NCD and DOTS clinic patients underwent RT-PCR for COVID-19. TB screening in NCD and flu clinics was done among 4 (3.9%) and 7 (12.5%), respectively. A total of 23 (9.0%) were found positive for COVID-19, and no factors other than the presence of COVID-19 symptoms (aPR: 2.89; 95% CI: 1.33–6.29) had any independent association with COVID-19 positive status.

Conclusion:

The low screening for TB in NCD and flu clinics indicates the need to strengthen the implementation the TB-DM and TB-COVID-19 bidirectional screening. Similarly, the low screening or testing for COVID-19 in the NCD clinic can be improved by the implementation of systematic screening strategies like TB-DM bidirectional screening.
Health-related quality of life among people living with HIV/AIDS on highly active antiretroviral treatment
Authors: Mahajan Vikram K. , Vashist Sanket , Mehta Karaninder S. , Chauhan Pushpinder Singh , Singh Ravinder , Manvi Sujaya , Sharma Anuj
Published: June 2023

Introduction:

The knowledge of the effect of sociodemographic and disease-related factors on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) is important for planning comprehensive health-care services for them.

Material and Methods:

Two hundred PLWHA on antiretroviral therapy (ART) volunteered to complete a self-reported World Health Organization's Quality of Life[FIGURE DASH]HIV brief questionnaire (WHOQoL-HIV-BREF) that examines six domains each with four items (physical, psychological, level of independence, social, environmental, and spiritual) with 25 facets and additional 5 facets specific to PLWHA (symptoms of HIV, social inclusion, forgiveness, worries about the future, and death and dying).

Results:

Only 135 questionnaires from 73 (53.3%) men and 63 (46.7%) women (male: female – 1.14:1) aged 20–82 years (mean ± standard deviation: 42.9 ± 10.5 years) were found complete. Eighty-five (63%) individuals were aged 41–60 years, 78 (57.8%) individuals were matriculates, graduates, or postgraduates, 76 (56.3%) respondents were married, and 38 (28.1%) were widows/widowers. Staying-alone workers comprised 43 (31.8%) individuals. Overall health and HRQoL were rated satisfactory (n = 85.2%) and good/very good (n = 74.8%) by a significantly greater number of individuals (P = 0.001). Pearson's Chi-squared test showed no statistically significant (P > α) associations between good HRQoL and variables such as age >40 years, gender, education, marital status, duration of disease, disclosure of serostatus to family, ART for >3 years, and CD4 >200 cells/mL.

Conclusion:

Regular ART can result in adequate control of immunosuppression and no comorbidities in a majority of PLWHA, family and social acceptance, and financial security can result in overall good HRQoL in all six domains within the WHOQoL-HIV-BREF. The study is limited by its cross-sectional study design and small sample size.
Early prosthetic management of mandible using interim guidance appliances in hemimandibulectomy patients
Authors: Sharma Riddhi , Oberoi Naveen , Singh Ravpreet , Singh Jaspreet , Kaur Simranjot
Published: June 2023

Mandible is the most common site for intraoral tumors which often requires resection of large portions of the mandible depending upon the location and extent of the tumor leading to various complications such as deviation of the mandible toward the resected side and facial disfigurement. Early prosthodontic intervention during the healing period helps in training the muscles and establish an acceptable occlusal relation using guide flange prosthesis (GFP). This article aims to describe the case reports of early prosthodontic management of two patients who underwent partial resection of the mandible due to squamous cell carcinoma using two different GFP: palatal ramp prosthesis and mandibular buccal GFP using an innovative approach. Prosthodontic intervention by guidance therapy serves the purpose of reducing mandibular deviation, preventing extrusion of maxillary teeth, and improving masticatory efficiency. Guidance appliances are the simplest and most commonly used treatment modality in restoring the form and function of the mandible.
Congenital granular cell tumors
Authors: Midlaj Muhammad , Vichattu Sankar Vinod , George Arun , Das Joy R. , George Linta Sara
Published: June 2023

Congenital granular cell tumors are infrequently occurring masses occurring on a neonate's gingiva/alveolus. These lesions are benign with no noted malignant transformation; treatment like excision is based on its effect on the neonate's respiratory ability and/or nutritional intake. Granular cell tumor of the newborn has different immunohistochemical features than the adult form of this lesion. We present a case of a rare granular cell tumor in a newborn, its treatment and review of the literature, including demographics, histopathology, and operative treatment.
Sex Predictive Value of Frontal Sinus Index Compared to Maxillary Sinus Index: Lateral Cephalometric Study
Authors: Hassan Fatma Mohamed , Hussein Maged Nabil , Motagally Noran Ayman Abdel , Samir Walaa
Published: June 2023

Sex estimation is a crucial step to outline the biological profile of unknown human remains. The frontal and maxillary sinuses have unique anatomical features and can be utilized efficiently in individual identification. Previous studies investigated the frontal and maxillary sinus indexes separately for sex prediction. However, comparing the predictive value of the frontal sinus index (FSI) to the maxillary sinus index (MSI) has not been investigated yet. This study aimed to evaluate the sex predicting value of FSI compared to MSI assessed on digital lateral cephalometry. This retrospective cross-sectional study included 88 digital lateral cephalometric images of known sex (44 males and 44 females) and age (20-50 years). Two radiologists measured the maximum anteroposterior sinus width and height of the frontal sinus and maxillary sinus. Then, the sinus index was calculated for each radiograph. The obtained frontal and maxillary sinuses parameters were tabulated, along with the patient’s sex and age, and subjected to statistical analysis. Our results revealed significant differences between males and females regarding frontal sinus width, FSI, and MSI. The discriminant function analysis obtained in this study accurately predicted sex with an overall accuracy of 71.6% (81.8% of males and 61.4% of females) using FSI, and 60.2% (63.6% in females and 56.8% in males) using MSI. Frontal and maxillary sinus indexes can be useful tools for sex prediction. Discriminant function equations were developed for both the frontal and maxillary sinus indexes with higher accuracy rates for FSI compared to MSI.
Comparative Evaluation of the Depth of Remineralization with Casein Phosphopeptide-Amorphous Calcium Phosphate, Sodium Fluoride with CXP, Nano-Hydroxyapatite, and Sodium Fluoride on Artificially Demineralized Lesions using Stereomicroscope: An In vitro Study
Authors: Rane Gaurav Anand , Sandhyarani B. , Patil Anil T. , Keshaw Kunal , Raikar Anita , Davalbhakta Rucha
Published: June 2023

Aim:

This study aims to know the efficacy of remineralization of four fluoride varnishes on artificial demineralized lesions in primary teeth.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 60 human primary anterior teeth coated with nail varnish leaving a window of 3 mm × 3 mm were subjected to demineralization for 72 h. These teeth were then sectioned into two equal parts with a diamond disc. These 60 sections obtained were then evaluated under the stereomicroscope and the demineralization depth was noted. These 60 sections were divided into four groups: Group 1: Casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP); Group 2: Sodium fluoride (NaF) with xylitol-coated calcium and phosphate (CXP); Group 3: Nano-hydroxyapatite; Group 4: NaF and subjected to remineralization respectively for 5 days. The specimens were again evaluated under the stereomicroscope for the remineralization depth.

Results:

All the four varnishes showed remineralization with artificial carious lesions. CPP-ACP showed the highest remineralization depth followed by NaF with CXP, NaF, and Nano-hydroxyapatite.

Conclusion:

CPP-ACP can be used as an agent at its best for remineralizing and extending the life of the tooth.
Awareness and Knowledge Regarding Safety Measures and Disinfection Protocols during Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic among Dental Students – A Questionnaire Survey
Authors: Pathak Pradnya D. , Lakade Laxmi S. , Jagtap Chetana M. , Patil Smita S. , Chaudhary Shweta M. , Kunte Sanket S.
Published: June 2023

Context:

The existing situation of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has created enormous pressure and anxiety among dental students practicing in dental institutions.

Aim:

The aim of this sentence was to evaluate the awareness and knowledge of safety measures and disinfection protocol during the COVID-19 pandemic among dental students.

Materials and Methods:

Institutional ethical committee cleared the questionnaire format for the survey then this Google Forms was forwarded to dental students all over Maharashtra. The questionnaire was divided into four sections: Section A recorded sociodemographic details. Section B recorded knowledge about COVID-19. Section C recorded awareness of measures. Section D recorded awareness of disinfection protocols in the dental setup.

Results:

A total of 707 dental students from different colleges in Maharashtra participated in the study. A total of 200 postgraduate (PG) students (95.2%) and 458 (92.2%) undergraduate (UG) students correctly marked the incubation period for COVID-19 as 7–14 days. Ninety-nine percent of students are aware of personal protective equipment (PPE) kit to be used while treating patients as well as they are well known for the components of the PPE kit. Most of the PG (93.8%) and UG (82.9%) students understand the need for an oral rinse with mouthwash by the patient before treatment. Awareness and knowledge regarding safety measures and disinfection protocols were adequate among PG students.

Conclusion:

COVID-19 pandemic brought new challenges and responsibilities to institutions providing dental education. Upliftment of knowledge can lead to a positive attitude in resuming back to the dental practice in the respective institute.
Full Endoscopic Posterior Cervical Laminoforaminotomy and Discectomy: A Technical Note
Authors: Sura Sukumar , Chamle Gaurav , Mallepally Abhinandan Reddy , Gadde Sai Krishna
Published: June 2023

Cervical disc herniations affects different age groups especially the young population with habits of a sedentary lifestyle, long working hours over the computer, and poor neck postures who present with acute disc herniations. Cervical radiculopathy commonly presents with pain, paresthesia and motor weakness. Traditional surgical options available are anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF) and Posterior Cervical Foraminotomy (PCF). However both the procedures have some disadvantages. With evolution of endoscopy in recent times provide better opportunity. Here we mention Full Endoscopic posterior cervical laminoforaminotomy and discectomy technique. It is the most advanced technique for single-level lateral and foraminal disc prolapses causing monoradiculopathy, we found this procedure is safe and effective minimally invasive technique for lateral soft herniations and foraminal stenosis. It has lesser complications and better post-op recovery.
Conus Hamartoma with Tethered Filum in a Young Male: Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Vadlamani Tejaswi , Chakraborty Arijit , Menon Dinesh , Shetty Sathwik R. , Bopanna K. M. , Ganigi Praveen M.
Published: June 2023

Spinal hamartoma is an extremely rare, benign tumor, and 22 cases have been reported so far. Hereby, we report a midline conus hamartoma in a 22-year-old male with no associated systemic manifestations.
Ponticulus Posticus, a Rare Cause of Bowhunter’s Syndrome a Rotational Vertebral Artery Syndrome
Authors: Sawakare Yogesh Madhukar , Dhage Vinayak , Velho Vernon
Published: June 2023

Bowhunters are a rare cause of posterior circulation stroke. We present the case of a young male presenting with giddiness and vomiting episodes on the rotation of the head. An infarct was seen in the left posterior inferior cerebellar artery area. Radiological imaging comprising computerized tomography, dynamic digital subtraction angiography, and three-dimensional craniovertebral junction model showed dysplastic C1 arch with ponticulus posticus causing dynamic compression of the vertebral artery. The patient underwent resection of the bony dysplasia on the left C1 arch with unilateral fixation of the C1-C2 joint. On follow-up, the patient was found to be completely symptom-free with no further similar episodes of vertebrobasilar insufficiency on head turning.
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Enabling the Feasibility of Single-stage Surgery for Tandem Spinal Stenosis
Authors: Srikantha Umesh , Somasundar Deepak B. , Hari Akshay , Lokanath Yadhu K. , Chavan Vikas
Published: June 2023

Introduction:

Tandem spinal stenosis (TSS) is a rare presentation leading to combined clinical features of upper and lower motor neuron. Scarce literature on its presentation and management is available. There are few studies recommending single stage surgery. Furthermore, no previous studies have included minimally invasive surgeries (MIS).

Objective:

To evaluate the clinical outcomes of single stage surgery for symptomatic TSS in elderly

patients and also the safety and effectiveness of minimally invasive surgeries in TSS patients.

MaterialandMethods:

We reviewed the data of 50 patients with TSS who underwent surgery from January 2014 to June 2021. The medical records were reviewed for demographic, peri-operative data, and previously documented follow-up were collected from the case records. Results were evaluated with Nurick grading, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Modified Japanese Orthopedic Association (mJOA), Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for back pain and leg pain, blood loss, and complications.

Results:

The median age of patients was 66 years (range: 53–89 years). The median estimated blood loss of TSS patients undergoing simultaneous decompression was 180 ml (150–220). The median operative time was 200 min (170–250). There was a significant improvement in mJOA, Nurick grading, ODI, and VAS postoperatively as compared to preoperative values. There were no major complications.

Conclusion:

Symptomatic TSS can be safely managed by single-stage surgical intervention with good postoperative results without a significant increase in complications.
Conquering Controlled Substances in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alghanim Rashed Abdulaziz , Alshennawi Mohammed Ahmed
Published: June 2023

Opioids have therapeutic use to manage certain medical conditions under medical supervision. However, consistent use of opioids could lead to dependence as well as tolerance which means increasing the doses to achieve the optimal therapeutic effect. Medication abuse is a global issue that has been investigated for a long time and many studies were published all over the world. In Saudi Arabia, some studies discussed substance abuse and strategies that could potentially help minimize this problem, for instance, educational indicatives, awareness campaigns, and prevention measures. There are some determinants that are associated with substance abuse such as first-time admission, criminal record, and alcohol and cannabis abuse. Although there are promising advancements in medical and pharmaceutical care in Saudi Arabia, there is a pressing need for further research to be conducted on narcotic and psychotic substances to fully understand and establish evidence-based practices for the safe and effective use of these medications.
‘Experience Norfolk! Experience Fun!’ vs. ‘Doživi više od očekivanog’ – A Corpus-Based Contrastive Study of Reader Engagement Markers on the Web
Authors: Vuković Vojnović Dragana
Published: June 2023

The paper investigates how reader engagement markers (Hyland 2005; Zou and Hyland 2020) are used in tourism promotion to establish interaction with potential customers on the web. The markers are extracted using AntConc software from two comparable corpora in English and Serbian compiled from the web texts of regional tourism organizations. Normalized frequencies per 1,000 words are calculated, followed by a quantitative and qualitative analysis of the most frequent markers. The results are interpreted in view of the differences and similarities in the two corpora considering the distribution and communicative functions of the markers, and the cultural aspects of this kind of interaction with the reader. The findings shed light on the implied concepts underlying reader-oriented engagement and written e-communication practices in the context of tourism discourse. The results can be used for the data-driven teaching of writing and translation studies.
Discursive Construction of Higher Education Institutional Academic Identities in Nigeria
Authors: Ademilokun Mohammed , Taiwo Rotimi
Published: June 2023

There is an increase in brand marketing on the websites of universities in a bid to present the kind of identities that will best promote them. This study examines the identities universities project to market their brands within the context of consumer culture of the contemporary higher educational setting. Data for the study were obtained from the websites of 24 public and private universities in Nigeria and were analysed based on Fairclough’s (2015) dialectical relational theory and Roper and Parker’s (2006) insights on branding. The findings reveal seven kinds of identity: professional, national, transnational, humanist, Afrocentric, ethnic and religious. These identities range from the ideal to narrow-interest ones. The study concludes that identity construction in any university should aim primarily at advancing knowledge and producing total graduates who would be able to adapt and survive in any part of the world and contribute meaningfully to societal development.
Representing M(other): A Cixousian Reading of Memoirs Written by Jeanette Winterson and Elif Shafak
Authors: Khosravi Balalami Niloufar
Published: June 2023

Writing about themselves, women return to their mothers and secure their self-identification by writing about the newly founded mother-daughter relationship. Nonetheless, depicting the concept of the mother is remarkably onerous because her image is either idealized by the patriarchal society or overlooked as a passive character under the masculine power of the father. Therefore, in order to depict a fair image of the mother, woman writers are compelled to stand against this overly simplistic depiction to portray her as complex and different. In doing so, women’s self-writings will successfully remember the mother’s voice and refer to her unique qualities. In this article, I would argue that Elif Shafak’s and Jeanette Winterson’s memoirs are tightly bonded with the concept of the mother, which is compatible with the way Hé lène Cixous defines and writes about not only her mother, but motherhood in general.
The Demographic Factors Affecting the Writing Skills of Slovenian Year 6 EFL Students
Authors: Nagode Gabrijela Petra , Pižorn Karmen , Korošec Žan
Published: June 2023

EFL writing is a complex and difficult productive skill for young learners. National assessment of EFL at the end of Year 6 in Slovenia shows that additional research into the various variables affecting EFL writing is needed. The aim of this study is to predict the relationship between gender, place of living, home possessions, years of schooling and parents’ education, and EFLwriting performance for Year 6 students. A representative sample of 790 pupils completed a demographic e-questionnaire and two writing e-tasks. According to ANOVA , statistically significant factors are home possessions, number of Slovenian and English books, years of learning English and mother’s education. Statistically insignificant factors are gender, place of living and father’s education. Demographic factors predict EFL writing performance by 9.9%.
The Founder’s Cult in Messambria Pontica
Authors: Topalilov Ivo
Published: June 2023

The article deals with the early history of the politeia Messambria Pontica through the prysm of the foundation myth and cult. The almost simultaneous establishment of the cult and myth to the historical founder and mythical eponumous hero-founder attested on the silver coinage of Messambria may refer to a certain need of a group of Messambrian society to present itself in a certain way at-home and abroad. The author elieves that this should be considered within the ethnic discourse between Ionians and Dorians.
Tinjauan Buku: Iman dan Agama
Authors: Aritonang Arthur
Published: June 2023

Buku ini berisikan hasil seminar pembinaan iman Kristen yang berjudul “Iman dan Agama” yang diadakan oleh GRII (Gereja Reformend Injili Indonesia) dan ketika itu Dr. Stephen Tong menjadi keynote speaker. Tujuan dari hasil seminar ini dibukukan ialah: Pertama, agar umat memiliki keyakinan dan kepercayaan yang teguh. Kedua, memperdalam pengertian akan kebenaran dalam Yesus Kristus. Ketiga, memperoleh kekuatan untuk bersaksi bagi-Nya di dalam masyarakat. Secara isi penyajian buku ini hendak meresponi berbagai serangan yang diarahkan kepada iman Kristen di era modern. Dasar argumentasi yang dibangun oleh Stephen dalam menyingkapi serangan tersebut ialah Alkitab sebagai standar dan nilai tertinggi kebenaran. Bagi Stephen dari zaman ke zaman Alkitab mampu berdiri kokoh terhadap berbagai serangan yang ingin melemahkan Iman Kristen.
Presentación del dossier: El capital vs naturaleza y sociedad vs capital. Entre la devastación socioambiental y la reconstrucción comunitaria de la sustentabilidad
Authors: Luna-Nemecio Josemanuel , Sánchez Sánchez David
Published: June 2023

Presentación del dossier: El capital vs naturaleza y sociedad vs capital. Entre la devastación socioambiental y la reconstrucción comunitaria de la sustentabilidad
violencia y la sexualidad
Authors: Batista Cordova Reinaldo
Published: June 2023

El presente estudio se propone examinar cómo fenómenos distintos se interrelacionan: la violencia y la sexualidad. Para su realización se hace necesario acercarse a los conceptos y sus implicaciones en la existencia individual y social de la humanidad; para viabilizar el estudio se enfoca en el período central del siglo XX, examinando las idiosincrasias en España y Brasil, porque ambos territorios tenían aspectos que nos parecen comparables, como el hecho de haber vivir bajo regímenes políticos autoritarios, con intensa influencia moral cristiana. Las herramientas utilizadas han sido el Análisis del Discurso, en su vertiente francesa, que considera la lengua como una construcción social orgánica y el método deductivo, por ofrecer la posibilidad de apropiación de datos amplios y generales para acercarnos a los casos y lugares específicos. La hipótesis es una marcada naturalización de la violencia sexual en el referido espacio tiempo, derivadas de las limitaciones políticas y culturales (religiosas).
Contexto de las políticas de seguridad ciudadana
Authors: Luque Juárez José María , Payá Santos Claudio Augusto , Arenas Morales Francisco
Published: June 2023

La política de seguridad ciudadana es una política pública sectorial en la que se integran diferentes elementos que inciden en la misma, entre ellos la organización de la administración de justicia, el modelo policial, las prisiones y otros que tienen influencia en el clima de inseguridad que afecta a los ciudadanos, como el urbanismo o la exclusión social. Sin embargo, en materia de seguridad del Estado, algunos países, de manera excepcional, realizan reservas legales, en aras de la defensa de un interés superior. A lo largo de los últimos años se han adoptado diferentes modelos para mejorar la seguridad ciudadana, especialmente el ámbito de la policía. Los principales han sido el modelo de policía legalista, el modelo de vigilancia o control y el modelo de servicio público, que han dado lugar a diferentes enfoques de la actividad policial, ninguno de los cuales se ha demostrado capaz de dar respuesta a todas las demandas de los ciudadanos.
HUMANOS 5.0: el recurso humano, activo fundamental para la competitividad
Authors: Alvarez López Luis Daniel
Published: June 2023

Problema: existe un desafío continuo que enfrentan las empresas, gerentes y colaboradores para adaptarse a los cambios profundos y radicales de la sociedad 5.0, que requieren nuevas demandas cognitivas, afectivas y conductuales. Objetivo: describir y reflexionar sobre las habilidades blandas y duras importantes en los humanos para impulsar la competitividad y el crecimiento integral en la organización. Método: principalmente descriptivo y reflexivo, analizando literatura de los desarrollos tecnológicos actuales y su impacto en ser humano. Se realiza una retrospectiva de la evolución tecnológica, desde la sociedad y la revolución industrial 4.0 hasta la sociedad y la revolución industrial 5.0, destacando la presencia de tecnologías digitales y de sistematización como la inteligencia artificial (IA), el Internet de las cosas (IoT) y el Big Data. Resultados: muestran que el desarrollo de nuevas tecnologías está transformando la forma en que se realiza el trabajo y la interacción entre los colaboradores y la tecnología. Además, se destaca la importancia del transhumanismo y el posthumanismo, donde se busca mejorar al ser humano mediante la implementación de tecnologías inteligentes y el desarrollo de capacidades superiores. Conclusión: en la sociedad 5.0 es fundamental gestionar al ser humano de manera efectiva, desarrollando habilidades digitales y competencias éticas-tecnológicas. Se enfatiza la importancia de adaptarse a los cambios tecnológicos y promover el perfeccionamiento del humano a través del transhumanismo y el posthumanismo, todo con el fin de aumentar la competitividad organizacional.
Animalistic theme in the work of China artist Lo Zhongli
Authors: Лю Т.
Published: June 2023

Статья посвящена личности и творчеству легендарного современного живописца и педагога Ло Чжунли, чьи картины экспонируются сегодня в лучших галереях мира. В фокусе внимания автора — образы животных на полотнах китайского художника, раскрывающие эволюцию мышления Ло Чжунли, для которого тема взаимоотношений человека и животного становится одной из показательных в плане выражения философских идей. Анализируются репрезентативные картины мастера 1980–1990-х годов, относящиеся к анималистической живописи. Показано, что на разных этапах пути анималистическая линия в творчестве китайского живописца претерпела метаморфозы как в плане смыслового содержания, так и художественных форм выражения.

The article is dedicated to the personality and work of the legendary modern painter and teacher Luo Zhongli, whose paintings are exhibited today in the best galleries in the world. The focus of the author's attention is the images of animals on the canvases of the Chinese artist, revealing the evolution of the thinking of Lo Zhongli, for whom the topic of human-animal relations becomes one of the indicative in terms of expressing philosophical ideas. Representative paintings of Lo Zhongli of the 1980s–1990s are analysed, referring to different types of animal painting. It is shown that at different stages of the path, the “animalistic” line in the work of the Chinese painter underwent metamorphosis, both in terms of semantic content and artistic forms of expression.