bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The moral agency of civil society in post-election South Africa
Authors: Vorster Jacobus M. 
Published: November 2024

With the dawn of the new post-election Government of National Unity (GNU) in South Africa, this article ventures some ideas on the possible contribution of civil society to this new dispensation with the aim of turning the tide of moral decay and to set the course to hope and the development of a community of character. The research approaches the topic from a Reformed theological-ethical paradigm and considers social ethics within the context of the kingdom of God as the determinant of Christian social ethics. The study explores the possibility that the upcoming civil society could contribute to the much-needed moral ethos of South Africa by means of cooperation, confrontation, complimentary action, and co-option with respect to the state machinery in the GNU. The central theoretical argument of this research is that the incumbent civil society in South Africa – as one of the pillars of the constitutional democracy – can play an important role in the reinvention of a sound moral ethos as a moral agent over and against the GNU. To prove this hypothesis, the article discusses and submits the following areas of social involvement by civil society as proposals for further reflection: reviving morality, fostering moral leadership, being the voice of the poor, exposing corruption, shadowing public education, fighting crime, furthering constitutionalism, and promoting national dialogue.Contribution: The research indicates that civil society in South Africa has renewed potential to act as a powerful and effective moral agent in the country by using the spaces provided by the new post-election GNU. It can play a prominent role in rebuilding the moral ethos, social cohesion, and welfare of the community.
The Efficacy of Ozonated Water in One-stage Full-mouth Disinfection amongst Chronic Periodontitis Patients: A Randomised Control Trial
Authors: Jayasri S , Bakkeer Shifa Hassan , Elangovan Gayathri Priyadharshini , Vivekanandan Gopinath , Surya Duraisamy , Saranya Settu 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
Periodontal disease, causing tooth-supporting structure damage due to bacterial build-up, is linked to various risk factors. Traditional treatment involved scheduled scaling and root planing. Full-mouth disinfection (FMD), introduced in 1995, involves comprehensive cleaning and chlorhexidine (CHX) application within 24 h to prevent bacterial spread. CHX, a potent antimicrobial, is widely used in FMD, but concerns about emerging resistance have led to the exploration of alternatives like ozonated water, which has shown promising antimicrobial properties and the potential to improve periodontal health.

Materials and Methods:
This is a randomised controlled trial involving 40 participants with Stage II or III periodontitis who were randomly grouped into two groups. Group A was advised to use 0.2% CHX solution, and Group B used a 10 μg concentration of ozonated water. Both the groups cleaned their dorsum of the tongue, rinsed their mouth, had a pharyngeal spray and had periodontal pockets irrigated using the respective solutions. Plaque index, papillary bleeding index, gingival index, relative attachment level and probing depth were measured at baseline, 3 months and 6 months.

Results:
Significant differences were found at baseline, 3-month and 6-month values of periodontal index, papillary bleeding index, probing depth, gingival index and relative attachment level amongst Group A and B participants. Differences were noted in between Groups A and B in the periodontal index at 6 months between CHX and ozonated water and between 3 and 6 months for probing depth. Around 68%, 70%, 66%, 68% and 63% improvements were noted in the periodontal index, probing depth, gingival index, papillary bleeding index and relative attachment loss amongst Group B.

Conclusion:
Ozonated water represents a promising adjunctive therapy for chronic periodontitis, demonstrating significant clinical efficacy in one-stage FMD protocols.
A Comparative Evaluation of the Antimicrobial Properties of 50% Grape Seed Extract, N-acetyl Cysteine and 5.25% Sodium Hypochlorite against Enterococcus faecalis (ATCC 19433) – An In vitro Study
Authors: Kurtkoti Nikita Vishweshwar , Pawar Madhura Vivek , Mathawala Vaishnavi Ketan , Shirsat Shraddha Mahadeo 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
Endodontic infections are complex and polymicrobial, presenting significant challenges in dental treatment. Eliminating bacteria is the main objective of endodontic preparation, ensuring a tight seal to prevent reinfection. A commonly isolated bacterium, Enterococcus faecalis, is Gram positive and facultative anaerobic. It thrives in low-nutrient environments, forming resilient biofilms. Due to its tissue dissolving properties and broad-spectrum antimicrobial, sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) is the most sought after irrigant, but its cytotoxicity is a concern. Alternatives such as grape seed extract (GSE) and N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) are being explored for their potential antimicrobial effects and biocompatibility.

Materials and Methods:
Forty single-rooted, non-carious premolars extracted for orthodontic reasons were selected. Teeth were cleaned, sectioned and prepared, ensuring apical patency. Specimens were autoclaved and contaminated with E. faecalis (ATCC 19433) for 30 days. Four groups (n = 10) were formed: Group I – GSE 50%, Group II – NAC 200 mg/ml, Group III – NaOCl 5.25% and Group IV – sodium chloride (0.9%). Manufacturer’s instructions were followed precisely to prep the solutions, and root canals were treated using the Reciproc R25 instrument. Samples were collected before (F1) and after (F2) instrumentation and irrigation. Colony-forming units (CFUs) were quantified and analysis was done using two-way analysis of variance and Tukey’s honestly significant difference post hoc tests, with significance set at P < 0.05.

Results:
NaOCl significantly reduced CFU counts, demonstrating superior antimicrobial efficacy compared to NAC and GSE (P < 0.01). In comparison to negative control and GSE (P < 0.01), NAC showed significant antimicrobial activity, but not significantly different from GSE (P > 0.05). GSE displayed potential antimicrobial properties but was less effective than NaOCl and NAC.

Conclusion:
NaOCl remains the most effective irrigant; however, NAC and GSE also demonstrated significant antimicrobial properties and could serve as adjuncts in endodontic therapy. Further research is needed to optimise their formulations and validate clinical applications.
Comparative Evaluation of Morphological Characteristics of Root Surfaces after Scaling and Root Planing under Naked Eye and Magnification: An In vitro Scanning Electron Microscope Study
Authors: Shara Udita , Rao Prajakta , Mohta Ruhi , Joshi Shivangi , Shreya Somya , Sachdev Sanpreet Singh 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
The primary aetiologies of periodontitis include bacterial plaque and calculus. Effective periodontal treatment necessitates the thorough removal of these deposits through scaling and root planing (SRP) using manual and ultrasonic instruments. However, the roughness introduced by these instruments can impact bacterial colonisation, plaque formation and calculus deposition. This study aims to evaluate and compare the morphological characteristics of root surfaces after SRP performed under the naked eye and magnification using a scanning electron microscope (SEM).

Materials and Methods:
This in vitro study included single-rooted extracted teeth from patients with chronic generalised or localised periodontitis. The teeth were divided into two main groups: manual instrumentation with Gracey curettes and ultrasonic instrumentation. Each group was further subdivided based on the method of visualisation during SRP: naked eye, dental loupes (×2.5 magnification) and dental operating microscope (×12 magnification). The samples were evaluated for root surface roughness, remaining calculus and smear layer presence using indices such as the remaining calculus index (RCI) and roughness and loss of tooth substance index.

Results:
A total of 60 samples were analysed, with 30 samples in each main group, further divided into three subgroups of 10 each. The results indicated statistically non-significant differences in smear layer presence between groups. However, significant differences were observed in root surface roughness and remaining calculus between manual and ultrasonic instrumentation, particularly under higher magnifications. Ultrasonic instrumentation under magnification provided smoother root surfaces compared to manual instrumentation, although manual instrumentation showed lesser RCI in comparison to ultrasonic instrumentation.

Conclusion:
SRP performed under magnification, particularly with ultrasonic instruments, results in smoother root surfaces with less remaining calculus. The use of magnifying tools such as dental loupes and operating microscopes enhances the efficacy of periodontal treatment by providing better visualisation and illumination.
Evaluating the Effects of Heavy Metals on Seminal Fluid Anti Oxidants Status and Semen Parameters among Males with Infertility at Tertiary Health Centre in Nigeria
Authors: Oladosu Waliu Olatunbosun , Lawani Oluwafemi Ademola , Oyewo Rasaki Adewale , Oderinu Kazeem Adebayo , Jimoh Olanrewaju Saheed , Motayo Babatunde Olarenwaju , AbdulGhaffaar Oluwamayowa Hidaayah Jimoh 
Published: November 2024

Introduction:
There are evidences of a reduction in male fertility potential globally. This, coupled with the limitation of the gold standard investigative tool of male infertility, has become necessary that focus should be on elucidating the aetiopathogenic causes of male fertility. This includes the impact of environmental toxic products such as levels of heavy metals that have been proposed to impact both the sperm quality and seminal antioxidant status. The study assessed how the seminal concentrations of specific heavy metals such as cadmium, lead and Iron affect the seminal fluid analysis (SFA) parameters and seminal antioxidant status of males exhibiting abnormal parameters of sperm, analysing infertile male patients consecutively in a cross-sectional manner, with at least one abnormal SFA parameter, at a tertiary health centre.

Materials and Methods:
One hundred and thirty consenting males who have one or several anomalies with sperm characteristics were selected as subjects. Semen samples were collected, processed and centrifuged. The supernatants were analysed for the heavy metals using Buck Scientific 210/211VGP Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometers 220GF Graphite Furnace and 220AS Autosampler and seminal Vitamins C and E, using spectrophotometric method and glutathione peroxidase, whereas catalase was analysed using ELISA method.

Results:
Subjects’ seminal levels of Cd, Fe and Pb were notably greater than those of controls, respectively. In addition, individuals’ levels of seminal antioxidants were noticeably lower than controls. Seminal antioxidant status and Seminal Cd, Fe and Pb were positive and negative significantly correlated with sperm count and active motility, respectively.

Conclusion:
Laboratory quantification of the seminal concentrations of these heavy metals in the evaluation of males with infertility, especially those still regarded as idiopathic, because of limitations of investigative tools and biomarkers, will be of clinical utility, in both the management and prevention of sperm quality deterioration.
The psychological impact of disaster on first responders in the aftermath of Bahanaga train tragedy: A mixed methods approach
Authors: Ravan Jayaprakash R. , Panda Udit K. , Pattnaik Jigyansa I. , Banerjee Sreya , Chaudhuri Titas , Patil Sachin , Das Rama Chandra 
Published: November 2024

Background:
First responders are at high risk for adverse mental health outcomes following trauma exposure during disaster response. This mixed methods study aimed to quantify psychological impacts and explore personal experiences among first responders after the Bahanaga train accident that killed 294 passengers in the month of June 2023.

Methods:
For qualitative data, in-depth interviews (IDIs) were conducted, and quantitative data was collected using the PTSD checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5), generalized anxiety disorder scale (GAD-7), and patient health questionnaire (PHQ-9) for symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. The study was conducted over one month during July 2023.

Results:
Among 225 responders, alarming rates of symptoms of probable PTSD (10.2%), anxiety (11.6%), and depression (24.9%) were noted. Those with no prior exposure to disasters and those with no formal training in disaster response scored higher in measures for PTSD. IDIs were conducted with 22 first responders, including various stakeholders. Qualitative analysis identified themes of preoccupation with witnessing trauma, feeling overwhelmed, scary and terrible emotions, avoidance, guilt, hypervigilance, intrusive memories, emotional numbing, unmet needs for mental health support, worsening physical health, re-emergence of past traumas, compounding impact of graphic images in the media, certain positive impact, including increased empathy, resilience and finding purpose, and the beneficial role of peer support.

Conclusion:
Significant psychological impacts are noted with elevated rates of probable PTSD, anxiety, and depressive symptoms among first responders one month after the Bahanaga train tragedy. These results underscore the vulnerability of first responders to mental health challenges following disaster response in India.
Efficacy of brief cognitive behavior therapy in improving symptoms, functioning, and adherence to treatment in patients with bipolar disorder in remission: A randomized control study
Authors: Nambiar Seema , Munivenkatappa Manjula , Arumugham Shyam Sundar 
Published: November 2024

Background:
Residual symptoms in individuals with bipolar disorder (BD) in remission are common, and they contribute to significant functional impairment and distress. The incomplete efficacy of pharmacological treatments and improvements in psychotherapeutic approaches has led to renewed interest in psychotherapy for this disorder. However, there are fewer studies addressing the same.

Aim:
The study aims to examine brief CBT (cognitive behavior therapy) in addressing the residual symptoms in BD.

Method:
A two-group randomized control design with multiple assessments (pre, post, and 3-month follow-up) was adopted. The sample consisted of 30 patients each in the intervention and Treatment As Usual (TAU) groups selected from the outpatient services of a tertiary mental health hospital. The variables studied were interepisodic symtpoms, functioning, and adherence to treatment using the tools of Beck Depression Inventory-II, Young Mania Rating Scale, and Beck Anxiety Inventory. The intervention group received a brief integrated CBT of 8–10 sessions conducted weekly over 2–3 months. The TAU group received treatment as usual and brief weekly telephonic contact.

Results:
A significant difference was seen across the time points between the groups on all the variables. Significant changes in within group scores was noted in the intervention group on depressive and anxiety symptoms, medication adherence, and dysfunctional attitudes compared to the TAU group. However, there was no significant change in the functioning in both the groups. Larger within group effect sizes for anxiety, dysfunctional attitudes and emotion regulation, medium effect sizes for depression, and quality of life and small effect sizes for manic symptoms and medication adherence were found in the intervention group. Depression severity had a significant moderating effect on therapy outcomes.

Conclusion:
The study shows effectiveness of brief CBT in reducing residual symptoms in the patients with BD. A longer-term follow-up would validate the findings.
A comparison of demographic profiles, clinical profile, course, and outcome of Bipolar I Disorder and Bipolar II Disorder: Findings from the Bipolar Disorder Course and Outcome study from India (BiD-CoIN study)
Authors: Grover Sandeep , Avasthi Ajit , Chakravarty Rahul , Dan Amitava , Chakraborty Kaustav , Neogi Rajarishi , Desouza Avinash , Nayak Omkar , Praharaj Samir Kumar , Menon Vikas , Deep Raman , Bathla Manish , Subramanyam Alka A. , Nebhinani Naresh , Ghosh Prosenjit , Lakdawala Bhavesh , Bhattacharya Ranjan 
Published: November 2024

Background:
There is lack of data on bipolar disorder (BD) type II from India.

Aim:
To compare the demographic and clinical characteristics of patients with BD-I and BD-II using the data of the Bipolar Disorder Course and Outcome study from India (BiD-CoIN study).

Methodology:
Using the data of the BiD-CoIN study, patients with BD-I and BD-II were compared for demographic and clinical variables.

Results:
Out of the 773 patients, 59 (7.63%) participants had BD-II. Compared to BD-I, patients with BD-II had a higher income; were more often unemployed or housewives; had a higher mean number of episodes per year of illness, higher severity of depressive episodes, higher depressive affective morbidity, and a higher number of hypomanic episodes (in the lifetime, and number of episodes per year of illness); received lower doses of lithium and a lower number of medications; and had lower prevalence of alcohol dependence, higher prevalence of seasonality, a high proportion of them sought faith healing treatment, and a higher proportion of them have predominant depressive polarity.

Conclusions:
Patients with BD-I and BD-II differ from each other on certain demographic and clinical variables. The difference in the clinical variables suggests that the patients with BD-II may require different treatment approaches for management.
Cardiac emergency readiness: A community-level assessment of CPR knowledge in Al-Baha
Authors: Barnawi Mohammad I. , Alshmrani Hamdah A. , Alghamdi Ruba D. , Alghamdi Sarah I. , Alghamdi Sarah M. , Alghamdi Bushra , Alzahrani Khalid A. 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT

Context:
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a crucial lifesaving technique in cases of cardiac arrest and should be performed by any member of the community.

Aims:
To investigate the level of knowledge regarding CPR among the general population in the Al-Baha region, Saudi Arabia.

Settings and Design:
A cross-sectional study was conducted in Al-Baha from July 1, 2023 to August 1, 2023.

Methods and Material:
Inclusion criteria were individuals aged 18 and above living in Al-Baha who consented to participate. Exclusion criteria included individuals under 18 years old, healthcare professionals, residents outside Al-Baha, individuals who refused to participate, and incomplete questionnaires. Data was collected using an anonymous self-administered validated electronic questionnaire in Arabic distributed through social media.

Statistical Analysis Used:
The Mann–Whitney U test, the Kruskal–Wallis test, the Shapiro–Wilk test, and the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test. Any result below 0.05 (P < 0.05) was considered significant.

Results:
A total of 852 were included, with 65.0% of respondents female, the largest age group was 18–30 years old (43.9%). A total of 77.5% had sufficient CPR knowledge, with an average score of 11.2 out of 18. While many knew key CPR practices, gaps in knowledge existed, such as when to start CPR (15.8%). Challenges included determining unresponsiveness (26.8%) and fear of causing harm (73.6%). Social media apps were the primary source of CPR knowledge (53.8%), but 70.0% were unaware of available CPR courses, despite 75.0% expressing interest in enrolling.

Conclusions:
Population of Al-Baha showed a good level of knowledge, however, gaps remained need to be targeted during education efforts. The preference for social media and interest in CPR courses highlight opportunities for enhancing public preparedness.
Unveiling the YouTube addiction: Understanding the spectrum of digital dependency
Authors: Mahendran Rajalakshmi , Abiharini Subramoniam , Subbaraj Archana 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
Excessive use of YouTube is increasingly being as a source of technological addiction in both adolescent and adult population worldwide.

Objective:
The aim of this study is to assess YouTube addiction among adolescents and adults and the ways to reduce its usage.

Methods:
After obtaining Institutional ethical clearance and informed consent, we collected data from adolescent and adult male and female using a 22-item YouTube addiction scale (YAS) questionnaire. Face-to-face interview was conducted by the principal investigator. The principal component analysis (PCA) of the YAS questionnaire was performed. Manual content analysis was conducted for the qualitative data.

Results:
We enrolled 54 (50.9%) male and 52 (49.1%) female participants. The majority of them use YouTube and Instagram. Severely addicted were 38.7%, who spent all seven days watching YouTube videos. A principal component analysis revealed a four-component YAS structure based on an eigenvalue cutoff (>1), Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) measure of sampling adequacy was more than 0.5, and Bartlett’s test of sphericity was <0.001. We grouped 22 items into four dimensions: Impaired control, decrease alternate pleasure, intense desire, and measures taken to reduce usage.

Conclusion:
Behaviour modification needed to promote healthier YouTube usage habits.
Saline nebulizers in treatment of bronchiolitis
Authors: Dezfouli Seyedeh Mahsa Mahmoudinezhad , Gharab Saeid Gholami , Hamidi Reza , Mahmoodi Mansour , Nasirizade Manizhe , Ghafoury Roya , Khoshnazar Samane Sadat Khoobbin 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction:
This study was conducted to assess the response to treatment and compare the effects of nebulized normal saline 0.9% and hypertonic saline 3% in the management of acute bronchiolitis, a condition associated with multiple complications in pediatric patients.

Materials and Methods:
In this clinical trial, a total of 60 children diagnosed with viral bronchiolitis in the autumn and winter of 2018 at Ali Asghar Children’s Hospital’s emergency department were enrolled. The cohort consisted of 30 children in the control group treated with normal saline 0.9% nebulization and 30 in the treatment group treated with 3% hypertonic saline nebulization. Demographic variables, symptom onset duration, and initial heart and respiratory rates were recorded. Disease severity was assessed using the Respiratory Distress Assessment Index (RDAI). Data were analyzed using SPSS software.

Results:
Following treatment, both groups exhibited significant improvements in vital signs (respiratory rate, heart rate, and oxygen saturation) and RDAI scores (P value < 0.001). However, there was no statistically significant difference in the degree of improvement in vital signs and RDAI scores between the two treatment groups (P value > 0.05). The mean hospital stay duration did not significantly differ between the groups (P value = 0.16).

Conclusion:
Nebulized hypertonic saline and normal saline both effectively ameliorated symptoms in children with bronchiolitis. The absence of a significant difference between these treatments suggests that either can be recommended for use in the pediatric population experiencing acute bronchiolitis symptoms.