bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A Comparison of Conventional Root Canal Sealers With Ones That Use Green Synthesized Nanoparticles for Antimicrobial Activity: Protocol for a Systematic Review
Authors: Mohamed Abubaker , Ismail Enas , Adam Razia Z 
Published: October 2024

Background
Root canal failure and secondary endodontic infection are frequent clinical scenarios in dentistry. The main microorganisms implicated in root canal therapy failure are persistent Enterococcus faecalis, Candida albicans, and Staphylococcus aureus. To combat the impact of disease resistance, scientists are concentrating on alternative antimicrobial root canal sealers. Nanomaterials are a recent development in endodontic materials that exhibit great antimicrobial properties, making them an ideal material choice for root canal sealers.

Objective
This systematic review aims to compare the antimicrobial properties of conventional root canal sealers to those incorporating green synthesized nanoparticles between 2010 and 2024.

Methods
A well-constructed protocol was established and registered with PROSPERO (CRD42021286373). Ethics approval was obtained from the Biomedical Research and Ethics Committee from the University of the Western Cape (UWC; BM22/1/4). PRISMA-P (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols) reporting guidelines were followed. The included criteria demonstrate the green synthesized nanoparticles studies where the nanoparticles (NPs) are incorporated in root canal sealers. MeSH (Medical Subject Headings) terms were used for the search strategy of the systematic electronic databases for articles published in English between 2010 and 2024. The selected databases included Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, Science Direct, EBSCOhost, SpringerLink, and Wiley Online. A quality assessment tool for laboratory studies will be used to critically appraise the included studies. If applicable, statistical measures (mean, SD, etc) will be used for data analysis and presentation of the results.

Results
The protocol is registered with PROSPERO. A preliminary search was conducted using a determined search strategy across 8 electronic databases, and the review is now complete.

Conclusions
It is anticipated that the results of this systematic review may reveal the increased interest and application for nanoparticle-enhanced root canal sealers. This will aid in the future development of root canal sealants and mitigate the risk of endodontic failure.

Trial Registration
PROSPERO CRD42021286373; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=286373

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)
DERR1-10.2196/51351
Prevalence and Outcomes of Chronic Kidney Disease-Associated Pruritus
Authors: Tennankore Karthik K. , McCullough Keith , Bieber Brian , Cho Yeoungjee , Johnson David W. , Kanjanabuch Talerngsak , Kawanishi Hideki , Kim Yong-Lim , Lambie Mark , Rigatto Claudio , Shen Jenny , Schreiber Martin , Perl Jeffrey , Pisoni Ronald L. 
Published: October 2024

Key Points

CKD-associated pruritus is highly prevalent among peritoneal dialysis patients.Pruritus is associated with reduced health-related quality of life, and the composite of mortality and transfer to hemodialysis for peritoneal dialysis patients.Efforts to better identify and manage pruritus in this population are needed.

Background
Pruritus is common in hemodialysis patients. Less is known about the prevalence and outcomes of pruritus among patients receiving peritoneal dialysis (PD). Herein, we describe the prevalence of pruritus and its associations with patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and mortality/transfer to hemodialysis.

Methods
We analyzed a multicenter, international cohort of PD patients enrolled in the PD Outcomes and Practice Patterns Study from 2014 to 2022. Pruritus was assessed at entry into the PD Outcomes and Practice Patterns Study with a single-question Likert Scale capturing the extent to which patients were bothered by itch ranging from 1: not at all to 5: extremely. The kidney disease quality of life-36 and the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale assessed various PROs. Moderate-to-extreme pruritus was defined as a Likert scale score ≥3. The associations of pruritus with PROs were assessed using linear/logistic regression where appropriate. Death or hemodialysis transfer was assessed using multivariable Cox regression models.

Results
Overall, 5535 patients from eight countries were included; 43% had moderate-to-extreme pruritus which was the highest in Thailand (50%) and the lowest in the United States (33%). The adjusted odds ratios of moderate-to-extreme pruritus were higher for diabetes, low albumin, and elevated phosphorus but lower for residual urine volume (adjusted odds ratio, 0.98 per 200 ml increase in 24-hour urine volume; 95% confidence interval, 0.96 to 1.00; P = 0.05). Patients with extreme pruritus had the lowest mental and physical health component scores and a higher burden of other PROs including restless legs and disturbed sleep. Overall, 921 patients died and 1150 were transferred to hemodialysis. Patients with moderate-to-extreme pruritus were at higher adjusted risk for death or hemodialysis transfer (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.12; 95% confidence interval, 1.02 to 1.23; P = 0.02) with similar point estimates for each subcomponent of the composite outcome.

Conclusions
Pruritus is highly prevalent in PD and associated with poor health outcomes. Efforts to better identify and manage pruritus should be considered in this population.
Otimização do conjugado Anti-IGG canino no kit diagnóstico da Leishmaniose Visceral Canina (LVC)
Authors: De Amorim Chermont Simone , Jorge Nascimento Hilton , Lemos de Andrade Marco Antonio , Teixeira Pinto Christiane , Chagas Bastos Renata Chagas Bastos , Alves Brayner Pereira Kaique , Barbosa Jurgilas Patrícia Barbosa Jurgilas , Fernandes Delgado Isabella 
Published: October 2024

Introduction: The diagnosis of canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) is of great importance in the control of visceral leishmaniasis, a disease that is neglected worldwide and represents a significant public health problem. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test is widely used because of the possibility of large-scale diagnosis and low cost. Objective: The objective of this study was to optimize the stoichiometry of the conjugate used in the EIE/CVL kit; for this purpose, some conjugation and monitoring parameters were modified through molecular exclusion chromatography to improve the final product. Method: The conjugate produced by Bio-Manguinhos was optimized by purification using SEC gel filtration chromatography and evaluated using the EIE-leishmaniasis-visceral-canine-Bio-Manguinhos kit (EIE-LVC). The conjugates were produced with different stoichiometries (IgG X peroxidase): current conjugate, optimized conjugate and optimized and purified conjugate. Results: The results obtained were validated using the manual Canine Visceral Leishmaniasis test. The homogeneity of the conjugate means in the ELISA test was evaluated using the chi-square test, thereby demonstrating the normality and reliability of the data. Based on statistical data, positive samples obtained by the ELISA test showed homogeneity at a significance level of 0.05, i.e. a data reliability level of 95%. The optimization of the production of the canine anti-IgG conjugate, an extremely important component used in the composition of the Bio-Manguinhos EIE LVC KIT, contributed to ensuring the quality of the kit and improving the diagnosis of canine visceral leishmaniasis disease, making it more sensitive and inexpensive for public health. Conclusions: This work demonstrates that it is possible to optimize the anti-IgG canine peroxidase (HRP) conjugate used in the EIE CVL kit to make it more specific and ultimately more economical.
The perception of complex engineering problems among engineering teachers and students: A case study
Authors: Baig Khurram Shahzad , Asghar Usman , Ahmad Fazeel , Khan Waqas Ahmad 
Published: October 2024

The complex engineering problems (CEPs) are characterized by challenges such as: a) involving extensive or inconsistent, incompatible data from engineering and other offshoots, b) unable to be solved in the absence of in-depth engineering knowledge. The engineering teachers are not found successful in the design of a CEP because it does not touch the real issues from industry and / or environment. Therefore, the expertise of applicable skill cannot be evaluated and the reason behind this failure is the lack of or poor intellectual perception of the attributes of CEPs among the teachers. In order to help teachers, the relation between attributes, knowledge profiles and CEPs is elucidated in this work by giving examples. The main objective of this article is to establish an understanding of the student’s level of perceiving a complex engineering problem with respect to the learning domain. The Survey was conducted among 70 participants and the quantitative approach employed, utilizing a questionnaire survey and interviewing teachers to gather data from respondents selected through random probability sampling. It is concluded that Industrial training (like apprenticeships), laboratory practices and final year design project are good tools for the complex engineering activities/ exercises. The results obtained in the case study were found promising, therefore, it is recommended to extend this study by using various engineeringinstitutions to ascertain a framework on CEP solving. skills.
Are some neutral liners more neutral than others? An ex vivo morphological analysis of acetabular liners classified as “neutral”
Authors: Ochoa José Á , Neuvonen Perttu S , Hyttinen Jari , Viik Jari , Eskelinen Antti P 
Published: October 2024

Background and purpose: In contemporary total hip replacement (THR), dislocation is one of the most common complications. At our institution, the cause of an increase in the dislocation rate was recently reported to be reduced head coverage of a newly introduced neutral liner. We therefore aimed to ascertain whether differences exist in articulating head coverage between the various neutral liners used in contemporary THR. A secondary aim was to utilize coverage measurements to develop a new liner coverage classification.Methods: The articulating head coverage of 25 modular neutral polyethylene liners used in 6 uncemented cup designs from 4 major manufacturers was evaluated. The measurements were performed in a metrology laboratory and a mathematical model was developed to calculate coverage of the articulating surfaces. Further, 1 “elevated rim” liner and 1 “face changing liner” were included to develop a new liner coverage classification.Results: The articulating head coverage among the studied liners ranged from 167.7° to 194.8°, corresponding to a variation of 27.1°. The variations with different cup and head sizes within each design were smaller (from 1.0° to 5.6°) than those between different designs. Each of the liner designs offered distinct coverage, even though they were all classified as neutral. Based on measurements, a set of descriptive parameters to discriminate different liners in terms of coverage was created.Conclusion: We showed that all neutral liners are not equal – instead, they clearly varied in terms of their actual coverage design. We suggest our set of descriptive parameters called “hemispheric coverage index values” be used in discriminating the differences in liner coverage.
Comparison of Vs30 Value from Microtremor Data Based on SPT Drill Test of Young Merapi Deposits in Opak River, Yogyakarta
Authors: Nugraheni Adelia Saras , Setianto Agung , Setiawan Hendy 
Published: October 2024

The 2006 Yogyakarta earthquake was caused by the tectonic movement of the Opak Fault, which is located near the Opak River. This research conducts microtremor data processing and analysis using the Horizontal Vertical Spectral Ratio (HVSR) method and the Inversion method to determine dominant frequency (fo), amplification (Ao), and shear wave velocity to a depth of 30 meters (Vs30) in Opak River area as an effort in earthquake disaster mitigation. The purpose of this research is to compare the Vs30 value of the inversion method using layer parameters according to Standard Penetration Test (SPT) data from previous research and layer parameters according to the number of lithologies. The result presents that the Vs30 values around Opak River are in the range of 183 - 301 m/s and belong to the stiff soil site classification. The comparison shows that the Vs30 values in the two different layer parameters are both still in the stiff soil site classification and have a slight difference in Vs30 values. Thus, the use of microseismic data to determine the Vs30 value is a fast and efficient way to determine the subsurface geology of the study area.
Retrospective analysis of dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry data demonstrates body composition changes with age in dogs and cats
Authors: McGrath Allison P. , Hancock Leslie , Stiers Cheryl A. , Brejda John , Morris Elizabeth M. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

OBJECTIVE
Use 18 years of dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan data to characterize how body composition changes with age in dogs and cats.

METHODS
This was a retrospective observational study using data obtained from DEXA scans performed between 2006 and 2023. A total of 6,973 observations from 1,273 colony-housed dogs ≤ 1 to 16.1 years old and 6,593 observations from 1,096 colony-housed cats ≤ 1 to 16.9 years old were obtained. Animal ages were rounded to the nearest 1/10-year intervals. Means for each interval were calculated and quadratic, cubic, and quartic polynomial models were fit to assess trends over age.

RESULTS
Age had an effect on all DEXA measurements. In dogs, lean mass increased early in life before slowing to a peak at age 6.3 and then declined gradually. Fat mass also increased until slowing to a peak at age 9.3 and then decreased. In cats, lean mass increased before slowing to a peak at age 4.5, decreased gradually until age 12.5, and then sharply declined. Fat mass increased until slowing to a peak at age 7.5 and then decreased gradually.

CONCLUSIONS
This retrospective study provides a baseline for how body composition changes with age. Results suggest that lean mass loss may begin earlier than previously reported in dogs and cats.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE
Sarcopenia and obesity are common conditions in aging pets. Results can be used to improve body composition assessment of patients and investigate the efficacy of nutritional interventions.
The Value Matrix: a communication tool to support shared decision-making and the practice of Spectrum of Care
Authors: Groves Catherine N. H. , Phillips Erin M. , Coe Jason B. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

OBJECTIVE
To provide a video tutorial on use of the Value Matrix in clinical practice.

ANIMALS
Any animal for which a preference-sensitive decision can be made regarding their care.

METHODS
The veterinary professional gathers a comprehensive history from the veterinary client and uses this information, in further discussion with the client, to develop 2 or more evidence-informed options for the veterinary patient’s care. With the use of the Value Matrix, options are captured on a whiteboard or piece of paper, and the advantages and disadvantages of each option as well as financial cost are visually presented and discussed.

RESULTS
The Value Matrix is a clinical-communication tool for supporting shared decision-making between veterinary professionals and clients and for delivering the Spectrum of Care.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE
The Value Matrix is a practical tool that can assist veterinary professionals in collaborating with clients on making preference-sensitive decisions, providing contextualized care, and achieving informed-client consent.
School-to-Work Transition in the Youth Labor Market in Central and Eastern Europe: A Cluster Analysis Approach
Authors: Korotaj Tomislav , Chen James Ming , Kurnoga Nataša 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
This study analyzes education, training, and the youth labor market in central and eastern Europe.

Objectives
This study aims to evaluate similarities and differences in youth labor markets among eleven central and eastern European countries from 2008 to 2021. It specifically examines three aspects: wage ratios, early departure from education or training, and the share of the population not in employment, education, or training.

Methods/Approach
This study applies hierarchical clustering and multidimensional scaling to panel data. The complete-link method organizes countries into clusters. This study combines three-dimensional Cartesian projections and two-dimensional projections based on multidimensional scaling with dendrograms and heatmaps, to graphically illustrate the "school-to-work" transition across this region.

Results
Clustering highlights the Visegrád countries, the Baltics, and the Balkans as zones with internally homogeneous yet externally heterogeneous challenges for the youth generation. As the outliers in each of these regions, Poland, Estonia, and Bulgaria support clustering solutions that deviate from conventional understandings of central and eastern Europe.

Conclusions
Historical and geographical ties continue to define this region’s youth labor markets across political and economic dimensions. Clustering analysis identifies triumphs and struggles in policymaking in some of the poorest and most politically challenging member-states of the European Union.
Estimating Asymmetric Fuel Price Responses in Croatia
Authors: Szomolányi Karol , Lukáčik Martin , Lukáčiková Adriana 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
According to many studies, the transmission of oil prices to retail fuel prices is asymmetric. Fuel prices react faster if oil prices rise and more slowly if oil prices fall. Different standard econometric procedures lead to different results. The Linex approach, which is based on formulating the non-linear adjustment cost function, reflects the theory. It uses the generalised method of moments to estimate the reaction functions, which demands many observations.

Objectives
The paper investigates the price asymmetry in the Croatian retail fuel market using standard approaches and the Linex approach.

Methods/Approach
The simple and dynamic asymmetry models, error correction models, threshold autoregressive co-integration, and the Linex approach are used to verify the hypothesis of asymmetric reactions of gasoline and diesel prices in Croatia.

Results
The results using the standard methods are mixed, while the Linex approach indicates price asymmetry, the size of which is measured with the average price bias. The results correspond to other studies worldwide.

Conclusions
The authors' preferred Linex approach detects price asymmetries, even with large data samples with frequent changes in trends and volatilities. According to the approach, the question is not whether prices are formed asymmetrically but the size of the asymmetry.
Decision-Making Model to Support Agricultural Policies in Realizing Economic and Social Sustainability
Authors: Žgajnar Jaka , Stirn Lidija Zadnik 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Achieving economic and social sustainability is the goal of any policy when defining measures. We focus on the beef sector, where many challenges have arisen due to its structural characteristics, such as an unfavourable scale structure, high costs, low efficiency, and a low environmental footprint. This paper presents an example of the support provided by a mathematical programming model in the development of a Common Agricultural Policy Strategic Plan for the period 2023-2027.

Methods/approach
It is a model based on linear programming that allows such an ex-ante analysis by calculating production plans at the farm level and aggregating the results at the sector level.

Objectives
When defining the interventions, the question arose as to what the reform of the Common Agricultural Policy will bring and to what extent the sector should be supported in meeting these challenges. These were the concerns of agricultural policy that we sought to support by modelling different scenarios.

Results
The results show that the situation of the sector will worsen, especially for larger farms, but they also show the great importance of production-related payments to mitigate the negative trend.

Conclusions
The applied approach proves to be suitable for supporting the design of agricultural policy and achieving greater economic and social sustainability in the sector.
Analysing Economic Growth and Environmental Quality: A Classical and Bayesian Approach
Authors: Yang Fan 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
This empirical study investigates the intricate relationship between the ecological environment and economic growth within the context of Zhejiang Province, China - a region characterised by its rapid urbanisation and significant economic development. By analysing data spanning from 2011 to 2020, the research applies the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) model, which hypothesises an inverted U-shaped relationship between environmental degradation and economic growth, within both classical and Bayesian statistical frameworks to examine the province’s per capita GDP. Findings from both statistical approaches reveal a distinct correlation between economic progression and environmental conditions, underscoring the Environmental Kuznets Curve hypothesis. Additionally, this study conducts a comparative analysis between Vector Autoregression (VAR) and Bayesian Vector Autoregression (BVAR) models to evaluate their predictive capabilities concerning the interplay between ecological health and economic advancement in Zhejiang. The BVAR model, with its incorporation of Bayesian statistics, demonstrates superior forecasting precision, providing valuable insights into the dynamics governing the relationship between economic growth and the ecological environment in Zhejiang Province.
Was bleibt: das Vertrauen in die Sprache. Franz Hodjaks neue Gedichte
Authors: Jakabházi Réka 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
This paper examines the persistent evolution of themes and motifs in Franz Hodjak‘s poetry since his literary beginnings, focusing on his latest collection of poems. Hodjak‘s recent works delve into familiar themes such as freedom, existential emptiness, and the absence-defined concepts of identity, homeland, illusions, and freedom. Additionally, these poems address core life aspects like transience, farewell, hope, love, grief, dreams, and happiness. While these themes echo in his earlier works, Hodjak‘s unflinching perspective unveils the interconnectedness and impermanence of the world. The focus of this analysis lies in the enduring trust in language that permeates Hodjak‘s work.
Problembewältigung auf dem Sessellift, der zum Philosophieren einlädt in Klaus Eckels Komödie Ruhe da oben. Après Ski
Authors: Kory Beate Petra 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
The present paper aims to analyze the five stages of overcoming problems in the one-man comedy
Ruhe da oben. Après Ski
by the Austrian cabaret artist and author Klaus Eckel, which ultimately lead to acceptance of the situation through desperation, anger, disappointment and resignation. The double title of the piece should also be explained and the production at the DSTT will be discussed.