bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Impacts of Hazardous Noise Levels on Hearing Loss and Tinnitus in Dental Professionals: A Comprehensive Study
Authors: Zhang Celia , Young Andrew , Rodriguez Samantha , Schulze Karen A. , Surti Bina , Najem Fadi , Hu Jiong 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Hazardous noise exposure is an important health concern in many workplaces and is one of the most common work-related injuries in the United States. Dental professionals are frequently exposed to high levels of occupational noise in their daily work environment. This noise is generated by various dental handpieces such as drills, suctions, and ultrasonic scalers. Prolonged exposure to such noise levels is known to have adverse effects on hearing health. Despite the prevalence of occupational noise in dentistry, there is a paucity of comprehensive research specifically examining the prevalence of hearing loss and tinnitus in dental professionals.
Methods
To evaluate the prevalence of hearing loss and tinnitus, data were collected from 60 dental professionals including participant demographics and audiometric thresholds. Thresholds were compared to the age- and sex-based reference ranges from the International Standards Organization (ISO 7029:2017).
Results
Results showed that 15–25% of males and 13–18% of females had hearing thresholds that exceeded 95th percentile limits based on the ISO normative age- and sex-distributions. Tinnitus was reported in 40% of the participants.
Conclusion
This study is the first to offer a comprehensive examination of the characteristics and prevalence of auditory dysfuncions in dental professionals, when compared to the ISO normative age and sex distributions of hearing status. Findings from this study highlight the need for increasing the awareness of occupational noise hazards among dental professionals and the importance of routine audiologic monitoring.
Anatomical study of the vascularization of the pedicled osteo-myo-cutaneous scapulo-dorsal flap
Authors: Kany Alexia , Verdalle-Cazes Mikael , Vacher Christian , Foix Jean-Philippe , Crampon Frédéric , Deneuve Sophie , Nokovitch Lara 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Purpose
The main objective of this study was to conduct an anatomical study of the composite flap described by Kany et al., including the harvesting of the medial border of the scapula associated with a skin paddle vascularized by a perforator from the superficial branch of the dorsal scapular artery (DSA), to clarify the potential causes of failure of this flap.
Methods
A radiological study was performed to study the anatomical variations of the dorsal scapular pedicle (origin, course of the deep branch of the DSA in relation to the medial border of the scapula, perforators from the superficial branch of the DSA). Perforators from the superficial branch of the DSA were also identified on anatomical subjects, and their cutaneous vascular territory was determined.
Results
The DSA originated from the transverse cervical artery in 95% of cases. The deep branch of the DSA was in a posterolateral position relative to the medial border of the scapula in 70% of cases, and in a posteromedial position in 30%. In most cases, between 1 and 2 perforators arised from the superficial branch of the DSA. The mean size of the cutaneous vascular territory arising from the perforators of the superficial branch of the DSA was 7.8cmx8.5cm.
Conclusion
When mandibular reconstruction with this flap is considered, a preoperative CT angiogram could ensure that the transverse cervical vessels have been preserved, and determine the position of the deep branch of the DSA relative to the medial edge of the scapula.
Increased nighttime land surface temperatures in a seasonally muggy climate
Authors: Muse Nkosi , McNoldy Brian , Clement Amy , Mach Katharine 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Globally, increasing air moisture limits not only the human body’s ability to cool down, but also the Earth’s surface. A gap remains, however, in understanding how limited surface cooling can quantitatively impact metrics of thermal comfort. Here, we examine how air moisture influences nighttime land surface temperatures (LSTs) and thermal comfort during summer months across the Florida peninsula, during which time air moisture reaches the highest values of any place in the United States. For June–August during 2018–2022, we ask: 1) How do urbanicity, measured as impervious surface, and geography, measured as latitude and distance from the coast, modulate air moisture, measured as specific humidity? 2) How does specific humidity limit LST cooling at night? And 3) what are the resulting consequences for thermal comfort? Based on data from 30 weather stations along the peninsula, we find that specific humidity increases closer to the coast and at lower latitudes. In regions with higher air moisture levels, LSTs cool off less at night (as measured at 1 AM), resulting in lower differences between daytime and nighttime (diurnal) LSTs. Elevated nighttime LSTs have pronounced implications for measures of thermal comfort—for every 1.0 °C increase in nighttime LST, nighttime surface air temperatures increase, on average, by 1.1 °C, heat indices by 2.0 °C, and wet bulb temperatures by 0.5 °C. This analysis therefore underscores the importance of heat mitigation and adaptation strategies that reduce elevated nighttime LSTs in seasonally muggy climates, increasing thermal comfort.
Preparation of novel CO 2 copolymer diol and its application on waterborne polyurethane
Authors: Xian Wenqi , He Maoyi , Zheng Rui , Liu Zhu , Lu Ming , Chu Yuehuan , Cao Hao 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

CO2 copolymer diol (PPCD) with superior transparency is an indispensable raw material for the polyurethane polymers, especially for water-based polyurethane coatings. However, commercial PPCD is generally opaque. In this work, A novel sustainable, colorless and transparent PPCD was prepared by using carbon dioxide (CO2) and propylene oxide (PO) as raw materials. Its basic structure was tested and verified by Fourier transform-infrared (FT-IR) and proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) spectroscopy. Appropriate increase CO2 content did not obviously reduce the transparency and thermal stability of PPCD and the optimum value was 29.1 wt.%. Furthermore, the waterborne polyurethane (WPU) was successfully synthesized by prepolymer method with poly(1,4-butylene adipate) (PBA), polypropylene glycol (PPG) or prepared PPCD as the soft segment, respectively. With the increase of CO2 content, the thermodynamic property of WPU was significantly improved. When CO2 content increased from 23.50 wt.% to 31.50 wt.%, the tensile strength increased from 23.27 MPa to 64.63 MPa and the elongation at break decreased from 750.85–520.37%, accompanied by the glass-transition temperature increased from − 49.7 ℃ to -34.5 ℃. In addition, the WPU prepared by PPCD was also found to have better tensile strength, transparency and storage stability than that prepared by PBA and PPG. A new inspiration was provided to develop high-transparent CO2 based water-based polyurethane coatings.
Assessment of Pediatric Thyroid Nodule Sonographic Features Applying the ACR TIRADS
Authors: Alasafwani Aqeelah , Kushaim Ayman 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

FNA is the recommended clinical approach in the conclusive diagnosis of thyroid nodules. ACR TIRADS assess the various criteria considered before performing the FNA/biopsy of any thyroid nodule. Even though these parameters are validated for adult patients, their use in pediatrics has not been well studied. This research looked in the accuracy of ACR TIRADS in pediatric cases. A retrospective study was done including children who presented with thyroid nodules. Participants were chosen if they were ≤ 14 years and had ultrasound imaging findings of thyroid nodules. Patients were excluded if they had an incidental thyroid nodule detected by other modalities with lack of baseline ultrasound scan, diffuse thyroid disease with no dominant nodule as seen in thyroiditis and Graves’ disease, diffuse heterogeneity, thyroidectomy, and infection/abscess/ phlegmon. 50 thyroid nodules were studied and half were malignant. The ACR TIRADS sensitivity was calculated as 95.8%. Size was also studied to consider its effect on malignancy risk. The research’s findings suggested that ACR TIRADS demonstrates good accuracy level for use in pediatric cases; however, size plays no significant role in the determination of malignancy risk of children’s thyroid nodules.
Investigation of the influence of simultaneous multi-level physical and auditory stressors on cardiorespiratory response
Authors: Buj Christian , Preuß Meret , Mörsdorf Maximilian , Schmidt Anke , Guckel Denise , Dumitrescu Daniel , Klein Franziska , Straetmans-Oehme Lisa , Eichelberg Marco , Hein Andreas 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

In occupational medicine, monitoring individual stress-related physiological responses is an effective tool for minimizing health risks at the workplace. From an audiology perspective, this particularly concerns the effects of auditory stress, which leads to increased listening effort with subsequent hearing fatigue. A study was conducted to investigate whether cardio-respiratory responses can detect the effects of a multi-level combination of physical and auditory stressors. To investigate their measurability and determine whether an interaction exists, a selection of cardio-respiratory vital parameters such as heart rate, features in the time 1 and frequency domain of the heart rate variability, breathing rate, respiratory minute volume and the respiratory quotient were analyzed. The results showed a significant main effect of physical stress on all assessed parameters. Auditory stress demonstrated a significant impact on breathing frequency , root mean square of successive differences of interbeat intervals, and the power components of the low and high frequency bands of the heart rate variability. No interaction between auditory and physical stressors was observed across any of the examined parameters. From these results we conclude that physiological responses to different sources of stress can be recorded within selected vital parameters, independent of external stimuli such as ambient noise. In an occupational context, we see potential in tracking individual auditory stress by monitoring cardio-respiratory parameters, especially breathing patterns. By knowing the individual (auditory) stress level, conclusions could be drawn about the worker’s ability to concentrate and further measures could be taken to combat safety risks in the work environment.
In Quest of An Authentic Identity – An Exploratory Study of Mental Health Assessment of Gender Incongruence in Urban India
Authors: Ranade Ketki , Shankarappa Mohan Raju , Kumar Neeraj , Somaiya Aryan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Last decade in India has seen increasing visibility and dialogue on trans health including gender affirmation interventions. This has been enabled by growing mobilisation and assertion from trans communities and a range of legal and policy changes supporting trans inclusion. In this paper, we focus on mental health assessment of gender dysphoria/ incongruence that is the first and an essential step for a transgender person in the Indian context to be able to access medical and surgical gender affirmation interventions. We discuss findings of a mixed-method, exploratory study conducted with 165 mental health professionals in three cities of India. In this paper we primarily present qualitative data on mental health professionals’ understanding of gender incongruence, their practice of assessment, rationale for the same and ways in which they end up gatekeeping access to medical and surgical gender affirmative interventions. Concepts such as biological determinism of gender, trans normativity, pathologisation of trans and gender diversity, mental stability and capacity are used to critically discuss findings.
Healthcare Access for Migrants in Iran: A Qualitative Study
Authors: ghiasi kanishka , Mosadeghrad Ali Mohammad , Dargahi Hossein , Jaafaripooyan Ebrahim 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

This study explores the accessibility of healthcare for migrants in Iran, focusing on the challenges faced by approximately 3.8 million migrants. Key barriers to access include legal status, financial constraints, and cultural differences. Through a review of documents and semi-structured interviews with 25 purposively-selected healthcare providers—such as government officials, healthcare professionals, and experts from international organizations working in migrant health. The research reveals significant disparities in healthcare access. Legal migrants generally receive essential healthcare assistance from the government and United Nation High Commissionaire for Refugees, while unauthorized migrants typically face high out-of-pocket expenses and difficulty obtaining necessary medical care. The findings highlight the importance of implementing more inclusive health policies that provide coverage for all migrants, regardless of their legal status, to reduce health inequalities. Recommendations include improving access to affordable health insurance, decreasing treatment costs, and promoting cooperation between government organizations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to ensure equitable healthcare for all. By addressing the unique health challenges encountered by diverse migrant populations, this research aims to improve public health outcomes in Iran and supports the argument for more comprehensive healthcare policies that prioritize the well-being of all residents.
Entrepreneurial Motivations and ESG Performance in Chinese Stock Exchange-Listed Companies: An Empirical Analysis
Authors: Cui Jun 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

This study explores the impact of entrepreneurial motivations on ESG performance in Chinese stock exchange-listed automobile companies. Using quantitative methods and empirical analysis via STATA, the research examines baseline stability, endogeneity, heterogeneity, and mediation/moderation mechanisms. A sample of 10 firms from the Shanghai and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges (2015-2023) was analyzed. Results indicate that entrepreneurial motivations positively influence ESG performance, mediated by innovation capability and moderated by market competition intensity. These findings offer theoretical and practical insights, aligning with Stakeholder and Institutional Theories. The study provides a robust framework for understanding strategic ESG behavior in China’s automobile sector.
Corrosion Resistance Analysis of Duplex Stainless Steel Surfaces Obtained by Milling
Authors: Policena Mauricio Rodrigues , Passari Emerson Santos , de Souza André João 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Duplex stainless steels (DSSs) have been extensively applied in the petroleum, chemical, and energy sectors owing to their exceptional mechanical properties coupled with their high resistance to oxidation and corrosion. However, these advantageous characteristics come at the cost of diminished machinability. The milling of these challenging materials tends to produce grooved profiles on machined surfaces. This study investigated the surface integrity during dry face milling of four distinct types of DSS: LDX 2101, DX 2304, DX 2205, and SDX 2507. To explore the effects of the cutting parameters, such as the cutting speed (vc), feed per tooth (fz), and axial depth of cut (ap), a randomized Box–Behnken experimental design was employed. Notably, surface roughness exhibited significant variability, with the response variables (Ra and Rz) being concurrently optimized. Each DSS variant demonstrated specific optimal levels for the cutting parameters. Accelerated corrosion tests in accordance with the ASTM G48 standard revealed varying pit sizes, which were notably larger for LDX 2101 and DX 2304. The mass loss was correlated with the smallest medium maximum height of the profile (Rz). In instances where Rz ranged from 1.6 to 3.9 µm, 20 to 30 pits/mm2 were observed within scratches and grooves left by the milling tool. Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis revealed elevated levels of sulfur, indicating possible inclusions, and a high chromium content at the center of the pits.
Effect of enriched environment on the chronic sleep deprivation mice by NLRP3/Caspase-1 signal pathway
Authors: Tian Ruiqi , Zhou Yingying , Wei Tang , Yu Dandan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Enriched environment (EE) serves as a crucial intervention strategy that enhances central neural plasticity and facilitates motor, sensory, cognitive, and social stimulation. This multifaceted approach ultimately promotes the recovery of cognitive functions in the brain. However, the mechanism is unclear. Neuroinflammation has been proven associated with cognitive impairment. NLRP3 plays a crucial role in neuroinflammation induced sleep deprivation. Our study was to investigate the effect of EE on the chronic sleep deprivation mice by NLRP3/Caspase-1 signal pathway. In this study, the modified multi-platform method (MMPM) was applied to establish the chronic sleep deprivation model. The novel object recognition test (NORT) was used to assess the ability of learning and memory. The evaluation of hippocampal neuronal injury was achieved by performing Nissl staining and immunofluorescence. To evaluate the protein and mRNA expression of NLRP3, Caspase-1, and ASC, western blot and RT-qPCR were utilized. Compared with the SD group, the mice in the SD+ EE group demonstrated longer and more often to explore novel objects and alleviating neuroinflammation in the hippocampal. The mRNA and protein of NLRP3, Caspase-1, and ASC were decreased in the SD+ EE group. Enriched environment can improve the cognitive impairment induced by chronic sleep deprivation through the NLRP3/Caspase-1 signal pathway.
Evaluation of stability of Short Hybrid Implant Impression Copings: A Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Sun Minji , Yoo Je Hyeon , Jeong Yuwon , Kim Jong-Eun , Lee Hyeonjong 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objectives. This study evaluates the stability of various short hybrid impression copings with pick-up plastic components compared to conventional impression copings. Materials and Methods. Three-dimensional (3D) models were created using three different impression coping types (transfer, short hybrid [SH] with cap, and SH without cap) in two diameters (4.00 mm and 5.00 mm). An external horizontal load was applied to the apex of the analog to simulate unintentional forces under diverse conditions. Von Mises stress, microstrain, and displacement values were calculated to assess the stability of each group. Each group underwent a single simulation, and a Tukey post hoc test was conducted for statistical analysis. Results. The finite element analysis (FEA) results demonstrated that SH copings with a pick-up component showed significantly lower stress and deformation in the PVS material under unintended force application. Significant differences were observed among all groups (p < 0.01). Conclusions. Short hybrid implant copings with a pick-up cap provide reliable impression accuracy comparable to conventional transfer copings, with consistent reproducibility. Clinical Relevance Achieving precision and stability in dental implant impression techniques is essential for the accurate replication of intraoral conditions. Modifications to impression coping caps by some implant manufacturers have been introduced to enhance the ease of transfer and repositioning in clinical practice. In this study, the stability of impression copings with pick-up plastic components is evaluated using finite element analysis, providing insights into their clinical effectiveness.
Using Gypsum-modified Biochar to Adsorb Phosphate from Water: Adsorption Performance and Mechanism
Authors: Xu Guanli , Wu Di , Ao Xiang 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

This study explored the use of gypsum-modified biochar (GBC) for phosphate adsorption from water. GBC, composed of an equal weight mixture of gypsum (CaSO4·2H2O) and straw biochar subjected to pyrolysis, demonstrated strong resistance to interfering anions (NO3−, Cl−, and HCO3−) and high adsorption efficiency across a wide pH range (7–11). The adsorption behavior was well described by the Pseudo-Second-Order kinetic and Langmuir models, with a maximum capacity of 247 mg∙g−1 at 303 K. The adsorption mechanisms involved ligand exchange, electrostatic attraction, and micro-precipitation. These findings highlight GBC as a simple and effective adsorbent for phosphate removal.
Affinity ultrafiltration screening, multi-target extraction, and comprehensive activity verification of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors in the food additive Corydalis yanhusuo
Authors: Liang Jiaqi , Zhang Yuchi , Li Ruizhe , Zhang Yutong , Nong Yuyu , Chen Ming , Sun Ruijun , Li Sainan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Corydalis yanhusuo possesses strong medicinal value and is used in certain regions for soup making, wine frying, vinegar processing, and other edible processes. The anti-Alzheimer’s disease (AD) traditional Chinese patent medicine "Yangxue Qingnao Granules" contains C. yanhusuo. To explore the anti-dementia components of C. yanhusuo, this study used acetylcholinesterase (AChE) as the pointcut and screened, extracted, separated, and evaluated the biological activity of AChE inhibitors in C. yanhusuo. For the first time, affinity ultrafiltration combined with a matrix comprehensive evaluation of AChE inhibitor activity was used, and activity prediction analysis was conducted using a binding-degree growth trend fitting diagram. The response surface combined with pairwise Euclidean distances and Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm III technology was employed to classify various compounds, thereby optimizing the extraction of multiple active ingredients. Semi-preparative high-performance liquid chromatography was used to separate and purify the active compounds. The inhibitory effects and mechanisms of action of the active ingredients on AChE were verified through enzymatic reaction kinetics, and the potential anti-AD effects of the active ingredients were verified through network pharmacology. Finally, the differences in compound activity were comprehensively evaluated for the first time using a Pearson correlation matrix. The results revealed that six compounds in C. yanhusuo exhibited significant binding affinities for the AChE active site. This study provides valuable insights into the active compounds of C. yanhusuo and their potential anti-AD properties, promotes the development of AChE inhibitors from food and medicines, and provides an approach to reduce the side effects associated with synthetic drugs. This study provides a valuable reference for the exploration and development of functional materials from various medicinal resources.