bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessement of Pain Response during Caries Removal using Conventional
Tungsten Carbide Bur and a Chemomechanical Caries Removal Agent
(Brix Gel) : An In Vivo Study
Authors: Oommen Swetha Riya , George Liza , Mathew Josey , R V Vineet , Paul Sinju
Published: February 2024

Aim: The present study aimed to assess the pain response during caries removal using conventional tungsten carbide bur and a chemomechanical caries removal agent(CMCR) – Brix 3000 gel using Wong Baker Faces pain scale. Materials and methods: In this study twenty patients in the age group of 20 to 50 years with site 1 size 2 and 3(Mount and Hume’s classification) dentinal caries in the permanent maxillary and mandibular molars were randomly selected and distributed to 2 experimental groups. In Group A Tungsten carbide round burs was used while in Group B Brix 3000 gel was applied into the cavity for caries excavation. Dentin excavation was stopped until a hard dentin was detected with nonflexible blunt probe. Finally a caries detector dye is used to assess complete removal of infected dentin. Results: The scores obtained from the scale was analysed using Mann whitney U test which didn’t show any significant difference between the two methods of caries excavation.
Conclusion: Although the results did not indicate marked difference in the pain perception, carious tissue removal using Brix 3000 gel can be used as an alternative to conventional drilling method as it removes only the carious dentine with less application of pressure.
Key Words
Caries Detector, Chemomechanical, Dental anxiety, Pain Perception, Papain, Tungsten Carbide.
Does Dental Implant and Peri-implantitis Predispose to Oral Cancer – A mRNA differential expression study
Authors: Thavarajah Rooban
Published: February 2024

Brief Background
Dental Implant associated malignant lesions are being increasingly reported. The pathway for this phenomenon largely remains unexplored and an attempt is made to
address the same.

Materials and Methods
The mRNA expression of tissues from healthy peri-implant and peri-implantitis tissues were collected from human Gene Expression Omnibus database and subjected to differential expression (DE) analysis with adjusted P-value≤0.05 and Log-Fold-change at 1.5. From DE genes, those entities that were associated with “reaction to metals” were collated. Significant genes were subjected to network analysis and subsequent pathway enrichment analysis.

Results
In all 430 genes had DE of which 22 genes were related to the“reaction to metals”. They were the IL1A, CPNE1, MDM2, CALR, NCSTN, HSPA5, NPC1, S100A8, HIF1A, CPNE3, EIF2A, APP, KRT14, SEC31A, S100A16, IQGAP1, PRNP, NFE2L2, ADAM9, B2M, CAV1 and LGMN. Network and enrichment analysis revealed them to be associated with several cancer pathways and signaling network.

Discussion
Peri-implantitis has DE genes related to reaction to metals, are associated with tumorigenesis, apoptosis, cellular senescence and biological process linked with malignant transformation. In presence of elevated risks cumulative alterations in the transcriptome profile may increase the risk of malignant transformation.

Key Words
Dental Implants, Peri-implantitis, Oral Cancer, Implant associated cancer, Differential Gene expression, Metal ion, Titanium.
COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF DIFFERENT EDUCATIONAL AIDS IN ASSESSING PARENTAL ATTITUDE TOWARDS CHILD’S ORAL HEALTH
Authors: Kajal Anupama , Tondon Sandeep , Sharma Rai Tripti , Lalchandani Chahita Mahesh
Published: February 2024

Objective:The objective of the study was to evaluate and compare the efficacy of different educational aid to assess the knowledge and attitude of parents regarding their children's oral health and awareness.
Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 parents between the age group of 0 – 14 years.Group - 1 (Educational Handout - Brochure) with 50 parents and Group – 2 (Power point presentation) with 50 parents were assessed through a self-administered questionnaire and efficacy of educational aid was evaluated and statistical analysis was performed
Results: There was a statistically significant difference seen for the frequencies between the groups for time of first dental visit, child’s oral care before and after eruption of the milk teeth, importance of primary teeth, awareness of milk feeding bottle at night, thumb sucking habit and preventive treatment of malaligned teeth. Although both groups were effective in spreading awareness among parents with more effective results in group 2.

Conclusion: It is concluded that most of the parents were unaware about appropriate care of oral health of their child including first dental visit, deleterious oral habits and preventive treatment in spite of various awareness programmes being held time to time. Hence effective mode of awareness is needed to make oral health awareness programmes successful among the parents. Referring to that audio visual aid of information delivery can be an effective medium.

Key Words: Parent’s attitude, child’s oral health, awareness
A questionnaire survey of dental practitioner to determine knowledge and awareness about prescribing antibiotics during and after endodontic treatment in Central India
Authors: Tekam Deepashri , Makade Chetana , Shenoi Pratima
Published: February 2024

Endodontic infections are polymicrobial involving a combination of gram-positive, gram-negative, facultative anaerobes and strictly anaerobic bacteria. Thus, antibiotics, account for the vast majority of medicines prescribed by dentists. The inappropriate and excessive use of antibiotics is a major factor in the emergence of antibiotic resistance. Dentistry’s contributions to the problem of antibiotic resistance can be important because dentists prescribe 10% of all general antibiotics. Till date, sparse literature is available in central India regarding the usage of prescribing antibiotics for endodontic treatment.

Aim: The aim of this study is to determine knowledge about prescribing antibiotics during and after endodontic treatment amongst dental practitioners in Central India.
Method: A Web-based survey of 110 participants was conducted using validated questions in a population of central India.

Results: Amoxicillin (72.3%) was the drug of choice by most of the practitioner’s (no medical allergies).Antibiotic usage was reported highest for surgical endodontic treatment (64.1%),but clinical scenario like pulpitis(5.8%) and necrosis (9.6%) also reports antibiotic prescription. Over prescription of antibiotic was seen when antibiotics were prescribed for cases where no improvement was seen with the previously prescribed antibiotic. Awareness regarding drug resistance was reported 86.7%.

Conclusion: Though practitioner shows fair knowledge about the prescription of antibiotic there is need to re- evaluate drugresistance.
Keywords: Antibiotic, Antibiotic Resistance, Antibiotic prescription, Endodontic infection, Endodontic treatment.
Comparative evaluation of anti-plaque efficacy of 10% achyranthes aspera mouthwash and a herbal mouthwash (HIORATM) with 0.2% Chlorhexidine mouthwash - A four day plaque regrowth model
Authors: Prithyani Saurabh , Ghangrekar Kashmira , Mitra Dipika , Shah Rohit , Potdar Priyanka
Published: February 2024

AIM: - To compare the antiplaque efficacy of Achyranthes aspera mouthwash and Hiora mouthwash with a 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthwash.

METHODOLOGY: -
After acquiring informed consent, Quigley and Hein modification of the plaque index was taken. Phase 1 Therapy was performed. Subjects were randomly divided into three groups (15 subjects in each group) and the mouthwashes were dispensed.Subjects were instructed to use mouthwash twice a day for four days.The Subjects were asked to refrain from using any mechanical or chemical plaque control other than the dispensed mouthwash for 4 days.Subjects were recalled on the fifth day to assess plaque accumulation.

Results:It was observed that the significance between Chlorhexidine group to Hiora and A.Aspera was statistically significant (P<0.05) but P value of comparison between Hiora to A. Aspera Group was not statistically significant. Thus Chlorhexidine had marginally better results.

Conclusion: Achyranthes aspera mouthwash and Hiora mouthwash are potent anti-plaque agents and can be used as natural alternatives to 0.2% Chlorhexidine mouthwash.

Key Words: Mouthwash, Achyranthes aspera, Chlorhexidine, Herbal, dental plaque index.
Evaluation of Psychological Distress and Coping strategies among the healthcare undergraduate students due to COVID-19
Authors: Joshi Jayashree , Kahar Anita
Published: February 2024

Psychological distress is a term used for unpleasant feelings or emotions which affect a person. It results from various causes, pandemic is one of them. Today, the situation created byCOVID-19 pandemic has largely changed the routine of individuals. This situation has pushed everyone out of their comfort zone and it has also challenged the proficiency and capacity to cope with it. The students were no exception to it. In spite of being with family at home, the students were under stress. So a need was felt to evaluate the amount of stress they were going through and the way, they are tackling it.
Aims: To assess the psychological distress and coping strategies among undergraduate students of VSPM Dental College, Nagpur.

Materials and Methods: A cross sectional questionnaire based study was conducted on undergraduate students including Interns of VSPM Dental College, Nagpur. A total of 199 students responded to the study questionnaire.

Statistical analysis used: Percentage analysis and t test were done

Results: Out of 199 students, 36.68% of the students had a severe psychological distress while 17.58% had moderate disorder. The mean score for Avoidant type of coping (33.08 ± 4.76) was significantly higher than that of Approach type of coping (28.97 ± 4.09) with a p-value < 0.0001

Conclusions: The psychological distress among healthcare students was found to be more and the coping strategies they adopted were mainly Avoidant type.

KeyWords: Avoidant Coping, Approach Coping Psychological distress
COVID-19 Awareness among Dental Students : A Survey
Authors: Desai Ankit , Chandak Ruchi , Kandawalla Shazneen , Mitra Dipika
Published: February 2024

Aim- To evaluate the awareness among dental students about novel coronavirus disease.
Material and method- A questionnaire based survey comprising of 15 questions was distributed through Google forms amongst 300 dental students in a college in Navi Mumbai. The questions ranged from awareness of COVID 19 and its spread. Data was analyzed statistically using SPSS software.

Results- The results of the study showed the lack of awareness of COVID 19 amongst students.

Conclusion- It is important to conduct a comprehensive educational program to promote awareness about COVID 19 and its spread amongst dental students.

Clinical significance – A proper awareness of COVID 19 and its spread is essential amongst undergraduate dental students as they are going to be the cornerstone of the dental practice.

Keywords- Awareness; COVID-19; Dental students; Infection control.
Mental Health Assessment Post-Covid among Dental College Students -
Online Questionnaire Study
Authors: G. Ajith , P. Parthasaradhi , Bhuvaneshwari Bhuvaneshwari
Published: February 2024

AIM: The study aims to understand the mental state of dental students in the POST COVID -19 Pandemic and to determine the factors that influence their mental health.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the mental health of students as they strive to balance their duty of academics concerning their own well–being and family in the post Pandemic situation.

Materials and Methods
The research instruments used in this study included basic demographics; age, gender, year of study and health condition related to COVID-19, and family and friends’ health conditions related to COVID-19 independent variables. Beck Anxiety Inventory Scale and Students Stress Rating Scale are used to assess the anxiety.

Results
An equal proportion of male (50%) and female (50%) students’ response was taken in which males have more anxiety level when compared to that females. Students of 22 age have shown more stress when compared to that of other age.

Discussion
Many studies have shown that the stress level of males is more when compared to that of females. Although several studies have assessed levels of stress and identified stressors in the dental environment in India and world, no studies have used measures of stress and anxiety to assess the psychological well-being of undergraduate dental students specifically. Therefore, our aim was to measure the levels of anxiety and behaviourial stress among dental students at Tagore dental college and hospital (TDCH) and to investigate the relationship between these levels and previously reported stressors

Summary and Conclusions
Hencemales have higher anxiety when compared to that of females in the post pandemic situation. Males have negative impact on the mental state. Higher the age, more behaviourial stress and anxiety level was elicited.

Key Words
COVID 19, stress, anxiety
Utility of QR codes in dental practice and academics:The era of digital revolution
Authors: Sachdev Sanpreet Singh , Avhad Sanket , Chettiankandy Tabita Joy , Gaikwad Rajesh , Jadhav Premraj
Published: February 2024

In the present age of digitalization, storage of huge amounts of data and accessing it through devices at multiple locations has become an integral part of functioning of various systems. QR codes allow storage of huge amounts of information in an extremely concise matrix system comprising of black squares arranged on a white background grid. Use of QR codes in esteemed medical hospitals for patient management is already prevalent, but their utilization by dental practitioners and institutions is quite limited. QR codes can be effectively employed in various aspects of dentistry which could drastically improve the quality of oral healthcare provided to the patients. The present article discusses various possible utilities of QR codes in different aspects of dental practice and academics.

Keywords: Dentistry, Dental institutions, Personal identification, Teledentistry
A Novel two-step approach for impression making of an obturator in newborns with cleft lip and palate: A Case Report
Authors: Nerkar Nikita , Lamba Gagandeep , Nagpal Devendra , Chaudhari Purva , Motwani Kavita
Published: February 2024

A 2-day-old male newbornwas reported for not being able to breastfeed. Following examination he was diagnosed with a unilateral cleft lip and palate of left side with nasal communication.Because of the clefting, impression-making with finger-loaded elastomeric putty impression material was planned by a two-step impression technique.A big piece of sterile gauze was wrapped around the impression material in the first step. In step two, a customized special tray was fabricated on which the final impression was made,thenthe feeding obturator was fabricated using self-cure acrylic with sprinkle-on technique.The feeding obturator allowed the infant to suck easily.Without nasal regurgitation, the mother could feed the newbornsoon after placement. The parents were advised to keep the appliance in place until surgery was performed, with frequent follow-ups after 24 hours and monthly follow-ups after that.This case report explains the novel method of fabrication of feeding plates with an improved newborn's sucking capacity.

Keywords: Cleft lip and palate, feeding plate, Newborn, Obturator, two-step
Prevalence of middle mesial canals in mandibular first molars in coastal Andhra population – A Cone beam computed tomography study
Authors: Garlapati Roopadevi , Naik Madhu Kiran , Bandlapally Anila , Lahari Bolla , Naidu Bandaru Pydiah , Thati Jyotsnanjali
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Recognition of variations in root canal anatomy is an essential prerequisite for successful endodontic diagnosis and treatment. Most of the endodontic failures result from missed canals. The mandibular first molar has the most complex root canal system and a high percentage of treatment failures are due to the impossibility of locating, instrumenting and obturating the middle mesial canal (MM). There are very few studies available regarding the incidence of MM canal in mandibular first molar. The present study evaluated the prevalence of the middle mesial canals in mandibular first molars using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Materials and Methodology: CBCT images of mandibular first molars were collected from patients (n= 100) who had undergone CBCT imaging. The images were analyzed and the prevalence of MM canals were calculated.

Results: The data were analysed using descriptive statistics. In total of 100 patients, 60 were women and 40 were men, with age range 11-60 years old. 21 MM canals were identified in this study. In this, 11 were female and 10 were male. The prevalence of the MM canal in mandibular first molar MM canals were identified in 21% (21/100).
Conclusion: Within the limitations of the study, it can be concluded that though advanced techniques like troughing and magnification help in finding and negotiating MM canals, 3D radiographies like CBCT can be as used as valuable adjunct to the above mentioned methods. When these canals are treated, the success rate of the endodontic treatment would definitely increase. Clinical studies with long-term follow-ups are needed to determine the effect of preparation of MM canals on the outcome of nonsurgical endodontic treatment in mandibular first molars.

Keywords: Cone Beam Computed Tomography, Mandibular First Molar, Middle Mesial Canal, Prevalence.
Role of the oral pathologists in various lab investigations - A Brief Review
Authors: Tamgadge Sandhya , Modak Neha
Published: February 2024

Oral pathology is a lesser-known branch of dentistry amongst healthcare providers and patients. Oral pathologist tremendously contributes towards the diagnosis of the oral lesions as they are responsible for critical analysis of the patients thorough clinical, radiological and histopathological examination. They also focus more wisely on etiopathogenesis of the disease to find out the hidden root cause of the patient suffering, which could be local or systemic. Therefore, this is a short review article to create the awareness of oral pathology services to general public and to all health care providers.

Keywords- oral pathology, specialty, services, histopathology. subject
Enrichment of ruminant meats with health enhancing fatty acids and antioxidants: feed-based effects on nutritional value and human health aspects – invited review
Authors: Ponnampalam Eric N. , Kearns Michelle , Kiani Ali , Santhiravel Sarusha , Vahmani Payam , Prache Sophie , Monahan Frank J. , Mapiye Cletos
Published: March 2024

Optimising resource use efficiency in animal- agriculture-production systems is important for the economic, environmental, and social sustainability of food systems. Production of foods with increased health enhancing aspects can add value to the health and wellbeing of the population. However, enrichment of foods, especially meat with health enhancing fatty acids (HEFA) increases susceptibility to peroxidation, which adversely influences its shelf life, nutritional value and eating quality. The meat industry has been challenged to find sustainable strategies that enhance the fatty acid profile and antioxidant actions of meat while mitigating oxidative deterioration and spoilage. Currently, by-products or co-products from agricultural industries containing a balance of HEFA and antioxidant sources seem to be a sustainable strategy to overcome this challenge. However, HEFA and antioxidant enrichment processes are influenced by ruminal lipolysis and biohydrogenation, HEFA-antioxidant interactions in rumen ecosystems and muscle biofortification. A deep understanding of the performance of different agro-by-product-based HEFA and antioxidants and their application in current animal production systems is critical in developing HEFA-antioxidant co-supplementation strategies that would benefit modern consumers who desire nutritious, palatable, safe, healthy, affordable, and welfare friendly meat and processed meat products. The current review presents the latest developments regarding discovery and application of novel sources of health beneficial agro-by-product-based HEFA and antioxidants currently used in the production of HEFA-antioxidant enriched ruminant meats and highlights future research perspectives.
Critical pseudo-double impulse analysis evaluating seismic energy input to reinforced concrete buildings with steel damper columns
Authors: Fujii Kenji
Published: March 2024

Steel damper columns (SDCs) are energy-dissipating members that are suitable for reinforced concrete (RC) buildings and are often used for multistory housing. The evaluation of the peak deformation and hysteretic dissipated energy of such building structures is essential for the rational seismic design of RC buildings with SDCs. In a previous study, the authors proposed an energy-based prediction procedure for the peak and cumulative response of an RC frame building with SDCs. In this procedure, the accuracy of the equivalent velocity of the maximum momentary input energy (VΔE1*)–peak equivalent displacement (D1*max) relationship is essential for high quality predictions. In this article, the VΔE1*–D1*max relationships of RC moment-resisting frames with and without SDCs are investigated using a critical pseudo-double impulse (PDI) analysis based on a study by Takewaki and coauthors. The results show that the VΔE1*–D1*max relationship obtained from the critical PDI analysis agrees well with that calculated from the equations proposed in the previous study.
Modeling the extracellular matrix in cell migration and morphogenesis: a guide for the curious biologist
Authors: Crossley Rebecca M. , Johnson Samuel , Tsingos Erika , Bell Zoe , Berardi Massimiliano , Botticelli Margherita , Braat Quirine J. S. , Metzcar John , Ruscone Marco , Yin Yuan , Shuttleworth Robyn
Published: March 2024

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a highly complex structure through which biochemical and mechanical signals are transmitted. In processes of cell migration, the ECM also acts as a scaffold, providing structural support to cells as well as points of potential attachment. Although the ECM is a well-studied structure, its role in many biological processes remains difficult to investigate comprehensively due to its complexity and structural variation within an organism. In tandem with experiments, mathematical models are helpful in refining and testing hypotheses, generating predictions, and exploring conditions outside the scope of experiments. Such models can be combined and calibrated with in vivo and in vitro data to identify critical cell-ECM interactions that drive developmental and homeostatic processes, or the progression of diseases. In this review, we focus on mathematical and computational models of the ECM in processes such as cell migration including cancer metastasis, and in tissue structure and morphogenesis. By highlighting the predictive power of these models, we aim to help bridge the gap between experimental and computational approaches to studying the ECM and to provide guidance on selecting an appropriate model framework to complement corresponding experimental studies.
Essential oil-containing solutions (mouthwashes) preserve dental enamel with releasing low Ca and P concentrations without morphology alterations: an in vitro study
Authors: Mutran Sheila Cristina Almeida Neves , Carvalho-Filho Paulo Roberto de , Ribeiro Mara Eliane Soares , Faial Kelson do Carmo Freitas , Lima Rafael Rodrigues , D’Almeida Couto Roberta Souza
Published: February 2024

Introduction: The use of natural products such as essential oils has been suggested due to their promising pharmacological effects and economic viability. This study aimed to determine hydrogenic potential (pH), titratable acidity (TA), and ion concentrations of five solutions containing essential oils (EO), when used as a EO-containing solutions, and evaluate ion concentrations, enamel surface loss, and morphology alterations in enamel.

Materials and methods: The pH, TA, calcium (Ca), potassium (K), and sodium (Na) concentrations of five EO-containing solutions were measured. Bovine enamel specimens were submitted to two daily 30-s immersions in artificial saliva, citric acid, distilled water, BaCloTea (Basil, Clove e Tea Tree), GeLaTeaPep (Geranium, Lavender, Tea Tree and Peppermint), EucaLem (Eucalyptus and Lemon), Cinnamon, or Spearmint solutions for 14 days. Ca, K, Na, and phosphorus (P) were quantified through ions chromatography, enamel surface loss was determined by profilometry, and surface morphology was qualitatively analyzed through scanning electron microscopy. Data were submitted to one-way ANOVA and Tukey (p < 0.05).

Results: The five EO-containing solutions presented significantly lower pH values than distilled water (p < 0.05). The GeLaTeaPep group presented a significantly higher TA value than BaCloTea (p < 0.05), which in turn showed a significantly higher TA value than the other solutions (p < 0.05). The distilled water presented significantly higher Ca, K, and Na concentrations than all EO-containing solutions (p < 0.05). The enamel exposed to EO-containing solutions showed lower Ca and P concentrations than artificial saliva (control) as well as significantly higher surface loss; however, the surface morphology was similar to the artificial saliva.

Conclusion: EO-containing solutions have low pH, TA, and low concentrations of Ca, Na, and K. Moreover, enamel exposed to these solutions showed low Ca and P concentrations and slight surface loss without morphology alteration.
The role of sialidases in the pathogenesis of bacterial vaginosis and their use as a promising pharmacological target in bacterial vaginosis
Authors: Chen Liuyan , Li Jiayue , Xiao Bingbing
Published: March 2024

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is an infection of the genital tract characterized by disturbance of the normally Lactobacilli-dominated vaginal flora due to the overgrowth of Gardnerella and other anaerobic bacteria. Gardnerella vaginalis, an anaerobic pathogen and the major pathogen of BV, produces sialidases that cleave terminal sialic acid residues off of human glycans. By desialylation, sialidases not only alter the function of sialic acid-containing glycoconjugates but also play a vital role in the attachment, colonization and spread of many other vaginal pathogens. With known pathogenic effects, excellent performance of sialidase-based diagnostic tests, and promising therapeutic potentials of sialidase inhibitors, sialidases could be used as a biomarker of BV. This review explores the sources of sialidases and their role in vaginal dysbiosis, in aims to better understand their participation in the pathogenesis of BV and their value in the diagnosis and treatment of BV.
Effects of student-owned and provided mobile devices on mathematical modeling competence: investigating interaction effects with problematic smartphone use and fear of missing out
Authors: Krause Maurice , Greefrath Gilbert , Forthmann Boris , Kremer Fabienne E. , Reer Felix , Laumann Daniel , Masemann Dörthe , Denz Cornelia , Heinicke Susanne , Leibrock Barbara , Marohn Annette , Quandt Thorsten , Souvignier Elmar , Ubben Malte , Heusler Stefan
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Nowadays, more and more digital resources are used in modern mathematical modeling classes. In order to access these resources, students need a suitable digital device—often mobile devices are used for this purpose. There are several concepts to enable students access to such devices. For example, students can be allowed to use their self-owned devices [Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) concept] or teachers can hand out school-owned devices to their students [device pool (pool) concept]. Currently, little is known about possible effects of different mobile device access concepts on student learning. Hence, in this study, we investigated their effects on students’ mathematical modeling competence. In doing so, we also considered an interaction between the access concept and the effects of (a) students’ problematic smartphone use and (b) students’ fear of missing out on learning mathematical modeling.

Method

To this end, we conducted an experiment, measured students’ mathematical modeling competence as the outcome variable, and analyzed data of 263 German students in grades 8 and 9 using a multilevel model. In the experiment, students were randomly assigned to one of two study conditions and completed a mathematics modeling workshop. In the BYOD condition, students utilized their self-owned smartphones to work on the workshop tasks, whereas in the pool condition, students utilized institutionally provided smartphones.

Results

As a main finding, our results showed an interaction effect between the mobile device access concept and students’ problematic smartphone use on their competence (β = −0.24, 95% CI [−0.47, −0.01]). Students utilizing their self-owned smartphones were negatively affected by their problematic smartphone use (B = −1.45, 95% CI [−2.45, −0.46]), whereas students utilizing provided smartphones were not affected (B = 0.04, 95% CI [−1.01, 1.09]). Students with maximal problematic smartphone use achieved higher competences when utilizing provided devices (BBYOD−Pool = −1.20, 95% CI [–2.35, –0.05]).

Discussion

Our study demonstrates the importance of thinking about effects of student-owned and provided digital devices on mathematics learning. Finally, we discuss (a) that our results do not reveal a general preferability for one of the two access concepts, as well as (b) the relevance of student characteristics when choosing an access concept.
Teachers’ technological (pedagogical) knowledge–predictors for students’ ICT literacy?
Authors: Kastorff Tamara , Stegmann Karsten
Published: February 2024

With the integration of information and communication technologies (ICT) into curricula, teachers are responsible for promoting ICT literacy among secondary school students, which requires in-depth technological knowledge (TK) and technological-pedagogical knowledge (TPK) on the part of teachers. This study uses a multilevel analysis to examine how teachers’ professional knowledge at TK and TPK influences secondary school students’ ICT literacy. Using data from n = 1,566 students from a larger sample taught in N = 134 classes by N = 220 teachers in N = 39 schools, our results show contrary to our hypotheses, no significant relationship between teachers’ professional knowledge regarding TK and TPK and students’ cross-curricula ICT literacy. Furthermore, we did not find any significant relationship in our model between students’ study-related ICT use and ICT literacy. By analyzing the relationship between teachers’ TK and TPK and students’ ICT literacy, our study provides new insights into the relationship between teachers’ cross-curricular knowledge and students’ cross-curricular achievements. It discusses further possible explanations and directions for future research.
“It takes a village to raise a child,” university teachers’ views on traditional education, modern education, and future I integration in Ethiopia
Authors: Baheretibeb Yonas , Whitehead Cynthia
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Indigenous education has recently gained prominence in international debates for its role in addressing the social, economic, and political issues faced by African states. Ethiopia, like other African countries, had its education system based primarily on the transmission of socio-professional aptitudes, religious values, skills, and intergenerational knowledge as a way to preserve the social, cultural, and religious values of the Ethiopian community. In the early 20th century, Ethiopia wholeheartedly adopted a Western higher education system in a tabula rasa approach that sought to obliterate deeply rooted cultural norms and rapidly transition the country’s traditional religious system to a secular one.

Methods

This qualitative study used semi-structured interviews to explore the perspectives of Ethiopian university teachers about the benefits and limitations of traditional education and the potential to integrate traditional and modern education in Ethiopian universities.

Results

Study findings show that, despite agreement that “traditional” education is distinct from other educational systems, there are varying notions of what constitutes “indigenous” education. Participants also suggested that the dominant rationale for the tabula rasa approach in Ethiopian modern education was to modernise the country and embrace a global perspective on education that incorporates ideas and advances from other cultures while still being firmly entrenched in local values and educational systems.

Discussion

Insights have implications for education systems in African and other low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) in terms of developing strategies for the pluralistic approach to knowledge systems.
A study of home energy management considering carbon quota
Authors: Yucheng Ren , Li Huang , Xiaodong Cao , Yixuan Huang , Yanan Zhang
Published: February 2024

The household energy management system (HEMS) has become an important system for energy conservation and emission reduction. In this study, home energy management considering carbon quota has been established. Firstly, the household photovoltaic output model, load model of various electrical appliances, battery load model, and charging and discharging of electric vehicles (EVs) model are established. Secondly, the carbon emission and carbon quota of household appliances and EVs are considered in these models. Thirdly, the energy optimization model of minimum the household user’s total comprehensive operation cost with the minimum total electricity consumption, carbon trading cost, battery degradation cost, and carbon quota income are proposed, taking into account constraints such as the comfort of users’ energy use time. Subsequently, the improved particle swarm optimization (IPSO) algorithm is used to tackle the problem. Compared to the standard particle swarm optimization (PSO), the IPSO has significantly improved the optimization effect. By comparing the optimization results in different scenarios, the effectiveness of the strategy is verified, and the influence of different carbon trading prices on optimal energy scheduling has been analyzed. The result shows that the comprehensive consideration of carbon trading cost and total electricity cost can reduce the household carbon emissions and the total electricity cost of the household user. By increasing the carbon trading price, the user’s carbon trading income and the EV carbon quota income increase, and the overall operating cost decreases; the guidance and regulation of carbon trading price can make a valuable contribution to HEMS optimization. Compared to the original situation, the household carbon emissions are reduced by 14.58 kg, a decrease of over 21.47%, while the total comprehensive operation cost are reduced by 14.12%. Carbon quota trading can guide household users to use electricity reasonably, reducing household carbon emissions and the total cost of household electricity.
Distribution of antibiotic resistant bacteria and genes in sewage and surrounding environment of Tórshavn, Faroe Islands
Authors: Mortensen Anna Maria Steintún , Poulsen Sissal Jóhanna , Berbisá Marjun á Fríðriksmørk , Djurhuus Anni
Published: March 2024

Several studies have investigated the effects of swimming in sewage-polluted recreational beach water, highlighting the associated health hazards. To mitigate potential pathogen transmission, it is imperative that the polluted water is released away from recreational waters and foreshores, where children tend to play. At present, domestic sewage in the Faroe Islands solely undergoes primary wastewater treatment within primary settling tanks before being discharged into the ocean. Effluents are a major anthropogenic source of antibiotic resistance genes and antibiotic resistant bacteria, which are released into the environment. The aim of this study was to investigate antibiotic resistant Gram-negative bacteria and antibiotic resistance genes in influents and effluents of wastewater subjected solely to primary treatment, along with their release into the environment during both summer and winter. Water samples were collected from influents and effluents as well as with increasing distance away from the wastewater outlet and from nearby tidepools. Samples were cultured on MacConkey agar with four different antibiotics for detection of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and antibiotic resistance genes were quantified by droplet digital PCR. All multi-drug resistant bacteria were identified using the API 20E kit. We observed an overall decrease of the abundance of Gram-negative bacteria from the effluents compared to influents, however, we observed the opposite trend in the antibiotic resistance genes. Antibiotic resistant bacteria and antibiotic resistance genes in addition to multi-drug resistant bacteria were found in the surrounding oceanic and several terrestrial tidepool samples. Of the multi-drug resistant bacteria, we found, e.g., Escherichia coli, P. aeruginosa, and A. hydrophila species, which can be pathogenic, potentially causing an infection if encountering a host. These results indicate a relatively wide pollution range of the effluents from the septic tank and treated sewage released into the environment, posing a potential hazard for both humans and wildlife.
Green finance, new infrastructure, and carbon emission performance in Chinese cities
Authors: Li Hao , Yang Zihan , An Jiahao
Published: February 2024

Green finance (GF), new infrastructure (NI), and low-carbon green development play important roles in promoting high-quality economic development in China. To date, few studies have considered the relationships among GF, NI, and carbon emission performance (CEP) simultaneously. Using the panel data of 285 Chinese cities from 2011 to 2021, an improved vertical and horizontal pull-out gearing method was used to measure the GF and NI composite indices, and the CEP was measured using the slacks-based measure (SBM) non-expected output model. Using the panel data fixed-effects model and interactive effect model, it was found that both GF and NI can effectively enhance urban CEP and produce a superposition effect, promoting each other to deepen their ability to enhance the CEP. Heterogeneity analysis showed that the effects of GF and NI are more notable in eastern China, with a higher degree of marketization, policy support for the development of the digital economy, and resource-based cities. Green technological innovation, industrial structure upgrading, and resource allocation optimization are pathways for GF and NI to jointly enhance the CEP. Further analysis of the spatial system of the equation model using the generalized three-stage least squares (GS3SLS) methodology found that there were spatial interaction spillover effects among GF, NI, and CEP and that these effects were better for a local area than for the surrounding neighboring cities.
Transcriptome-wide 1-methyladenosine functional profiling of messenger RNA and long non-coding RNA in bladder cancer
Authors: Yin Jian-jian , Song Yan-liang , Guo Yu-feng , Dai Yuan-heng , Chang Qi , Wang Tao , Sun Guo-qiang , Lu Ping , Song Dong-kui , Zhang Li-rong
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Post-transcriptional RNA modifications are crucial regulators of tumor development and progression. In many biological processes, N1-methyladenosine (m1A) plays a key role. However, little is known about the links between chemical modifications of messenger RNAs (mRNAs) and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and their function in bladder cancer (BLCA).

Methods: Methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing and RNA sequencing were performed to profile mRNA and lncRNA m1A methylation and expression in BLCA cells, with or without stable knockdown of the m1A methyltransferase tRNA methyltransferase 61A (TRMT61A).

Results: The analysis of differentially methylated gene sites identified 16,941 peaks, 6,698 mRNAs, and 10,243 lncRNAs in the two groups. Gene ontology enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analyses of the differentially methylated and expressed transcripts showed that m1A-regulated transcripts were mainly related to protein binding and signaling pathways in cancer. In addition, the differentially genes were identified that were also differentially m1A-modified and identified 14 mRNAs and 19 lncRNAs. Next, these mRNAs and lncRNAs were used to construct a lncRNA-microRNA-mRNA competing endogenous RNA network, which included 118 miRNAs, 15 lncRNAs, and 8 mRNAs. Finally, the m1A-modified transcripts, SCN2B and ENST00000536140, which are highly expressed in BLCA tissues, were associated with decreased overall patient survival.

Discussion: This study revealed substantially different amounts and distributions of m1A in BLCA after TRMT61A knockdown and predicted cellular functions in which m1A may be involved, providing evidence that implicates m1A mRNA and lncRNA epitranscriptomic regulation in BLCA tumorigenesis and progression.
Mechanistic causes of sign epistasis and its applications
Authors: Zhang Jinqiu , Chen Feiyu , Li Xianghua
Published: February 2024

Mapping genetic variations to phenotypic variations poses a significant challenge, as mutations often combine unexpectedly, diverging from assumed additive effects even in the same environment. These interactions are known as epistasis or genetic interactions. Sign epistasis, as a specific type of epistasis, involves a complete reversal of mutation effects within altered genetic backgrounds, presenting a substantial hurdle to phenotype prediction. Despite its importance, there is a limited systematic overview of the mechanistic causes of sign epistasis. This review explores the mechanistic causes, highlighting its occurrence in signalling cascades, peaked fitness landscapes, and physical interactions. Moving beyond theoretical discussions, we delve into the practical applications of sign epistasis in agriculture, evolution, and antibiotic resistance. In conclusion, this review aims to enhance the comprehension of sign epistasis and molecular dynamics, anticipating future endeavours in systematic biology engineering that leverage the knowledge of sign epistasis.
Prevalence of persistent hypertension following pregnancy complicated by hypertensive disorders in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review
Authors: Mukosha Moses , Hatcher Abigail , Mutale Wilbroad , Lubeya Mwansa Ketty , Conklin Jamie L. , Chi Benjamin H.
Published: March 2024

Background

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy can lead to persistent hypertension (pHTN) in the months and even years following delivery. However, its prevalence in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) is not well characterized.

Objective

To synthesize available evidence on the pHTN prevalence following a pregnancy complicated by hypertensive disorders of pregnancy in LMICs.

Search strategy

PubMed, CINAHL Plus, Global Health (EBSCOhost), and Scopus from inception through a search date of July 12, 2022, and updated on January 2, 2024.

Selection criteria

Cross-sectional studies and cohort studies reporting pHTN prevalence were eligible.

Data collection and analysis

We conducted a narrative synthesis of data and categorized reported prevalence time points into several broader categories. We used the Newcastle-Ottawa checklist to assess the risk of bias. The protocol is registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022345739).

Results

We reviewed 1,584 abstracts and identified 22 studies that reported pHTN between 2000 and 2023 from 14 LMICs. The overall prevalence of pHTN ranged between 6.9% and 62.2%, with the highest prevalence noted within African studies and the lowest in South American studies. Estimates at different follow-up periods postpartum were 6.9%–42.9% at six weeks, 34.0%–62.2% at three months, 14.8%–62.2% at six months, 12.7%–61.2% at 12 months, and 7.5%–31.8% at more than 12 months. The quality score of the selected studies ranged from 50% to 100%.

Conclusions

The extant literature reports a high prevalence of pHTN in LMICs following a pregnancy complicated by hypertensive disorders. To reduce long-term complications of pHTN, programs should emphasize early screening and linkages to long-term care for at-risk women.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=345739, PROSPERO (CRD42022345739)
Efficacy and safety of bispecific antibodies therapy for relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma: a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective clinical trials
Authors: Wang Xin , Zhao Ailin , Zhu Jinbing , Niu Ting
Published: February 2024

Objective

Bispecific antibody (BsAbs) therapy represents a promising immunotherapeutic approach with manageable toxicity and noteworthy preliminary efficacy in treating patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM). The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to compare the efficacy and safety of B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA)-targeted BsAbs and non-BCMA-targeted BsAbs in the treatment of RRMM patients.

Methods

PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, EMBASE, Cochrane Library and meeting libraries were searched from inception to August 16th, 2023. The efficacy evaluation included the complete objective response rate (ORR), complete response (CR) rate, stringent CR (sCR) rate, partial response (PR) rate, and very good PR (VGPR) rate. The efficacy evaluation included any grade adverse events (AEs) and grade ≥ 3 AEs.

Results

Fourteen studies with a total of 1473 RRMM patients were included. The pooled ORR of the entire cohort was 61%. The non-BCMA-targeted BsAbs group displayed a higher ORR than the BCMA-targeted BsAbs group (74% vs. 54%, P < 0.01). In terms of hematological AEs, BCMA-targeted BsAbs therapy exhibited higher risks of neutropenia (any grade: 48% vs. 18%, P < 0.01; grade ≥ 3: 43% vs. 15%, P < 0.01) and lymphopenia (any grade: 37% vs. 8%, P < 0.01; grade ≥ 3: 31% vs. 8%, P = 0.07). Regarding non-hematological AEs, there were no significant differences in the risks of cytokine release syndrome (CRS, any grade: 64% vs. 66%, P = 0.84; grade ≥ 3: 1% vs. 1%, P = 0.36) and infections (any grade: 47% vs. 49%, P = 0.86; grade ≥ 3: 24% vs. 20%, P = 0.06) between the two groups. However, non-BCMA-targeted BsAbs therapy was associated with a higher risk of immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS, any grade: 11% vs. 2%, P < 0.01) and lower risks of fatigue (any grade: 14% vs. 30%, P < 0.01) and pyrexia (any grade: 14% vs. 29%, P < 0.01).

Conclusion

This analysis suggest that non-BCMA-targeted BsAbs therapy may offer a more favorable treatment response and tolerability, while BCMA-targeted BsAbs therapy may be associated with diminished neurotoxic effects.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier CRD42018090768.