bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of Dental Caries and Associated Factors Among Secondary School Students in Kigali, Rwanda: A Cross-sectional study
Authors: Mamani Susana Judith Tito , Mukamuligo Judith , Uwambaye Peace , Andegiorgish Amanuel Kidane 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background: Dental caries is a worldwide alarming health problem among children and adolescents in developing countries. However, few studies were conducted regarding dental caries in Rwanda. Hence, this study determined the prevalence of dental caries and its associated factors among secondary school students in Kigali, Rwanda.
Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 646 secondary school students in the City of Kigali. Data on dental caries were collected with a structured questionnaire adapted from the World Health Organization. Pre-testing of the instrument was done using Cronbach’s Alpha (0.80). Data were analyzed with SPSS version 25. Proportions and mean decayed missing and filled teeth index (DMFT) were computed. Bivariate and Poisson regression analyses were used to test the associated factors to dental caries.
Results:
The average age of study participants was 16 years. Almost half of the study participants were female (50.5%) and 50% were from an urban place of residence. The overall prevalence of dental caries was 61.1% with a mean decayed missing and filled teeth index of 3.3 (SD = 3.9). Notably, 5.1% of children had missing teeth, however, only 1.7% had filled teeth. The lower molars were the most affected teeth by tooth decay 38.7%. Being a female was 1.5 times more likely to develop dental caries (AOR=1.5, CI:1.4-1.6, P=0.001) compared to males. Children from rural places had a 1.1 times higher odds of dental caries (AOR=1.1, CI:1.0-1.3, P<0.001) when compared to their urban counterparts. Similarly, children who don’t use toothpaste were 1.2 times more likely to develop dental caries than those who use it regularly and the difference was significant (AOR=1.2, CI:1.1-1.3, P<0.001). Visiting a dentist was significantly associated with 30% lower odds of dental caries (AOR:0.7, CI:0.6-0.8, P<0.001). Moreover, being young age 12-14 years, and coming from a poor family were significantly associated with a 40% and 20% lower likelihood of dental caries compared to their counterparts.
Conclusion:
Dental caries was found a public health problem among secondary school students in Kigali, Rwanda with highly untreated dental caries. Lack of dental visits, coming from poor families, residing in rural areas, and being female were found associated factors to dental caries among secondary school students in Rwanda.
Impact of contamination due to ingestion of microplastics on commercial fish in relation to their trophic habits
Authors: Bastidas Jackeline Jasmin Cañón , Molina Andres , Duque Guillermo 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The abundance of microplastic particles may be linked to fish populations through ingestion, due to the presence of debris throughout the marine environment. In this study, the influence of biological characteristics on the ingestion of microplastics was evaluated in 28 species of fish from the Sciaenidae family and 12 from the Ariidae family in the estuaries of Tumaco and Buenaventura Bay. The samples were collected in high and low precipitation seasons during the years 2020 and 2021, then a characterization of the stomach contents of 894 specimens in Tumaco Bay (479 Sciaenidae and 415 Ariidae) and 758 specimens in Buenaventura Bay was carried out. (267 Sciaenidae and 491 Ariidae) the number of microplastics per stomach was recorded. Additionally, their trophic level (TL) was calculated, and they were grouped into three groups (high, medium, low). As the main result, a positive correlation was found between the trophic level and the consumption of microplastics for both the Ariidae family (p=0.0254) and the Sciaenidae family (p=0.0028). Additionally, differences in consumption were found between TL for the Ariidae family (p(Per)=0.017) and Sciaenidae (p(Per)=0.031), with the high TL being the one that presented the greatest presence of microplastics (MP). This agrees with what was found in studies carried out in estuarine coastal areas, where a positive relationship is shown between the abundance of microplastics and the trophic level of organisms. Likewise, the Condition Factor (CF) presented lower values (<1) in adult individuals that consumed MP, which indicates that the well-being of fish species decreases with this contaminant. These findings indicate that microplastics generate a negative effect on the normal development of fish, as has been reported in other parts of the world.
Controlled release of hydrogel-encapsulated adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells-conditioned medium promotes functional liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy in a rodent model of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease
Authors: Kasahara Naoya , Teratani Takumi , Doi Junshi , Yokota Shinichiro , Shimodaira Kentaro , Kaneko Yuki , Ohzawa Hideyuki , Sakuma Yasunaru , Sasanuma Hideki , Fujimoto Yasuhiro , Urahashi Taizen , Yoshitomi Hideyuki , Yamaguchi Hironori , Kitayama Joji , Sata Naohiro 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Surgical excision is a key therapeutic approach for liver tumors with curative potential. However, hepatic steatosis can lead to delayed liver regeneration and higher post-operative complication risk. Globally, the prevalence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is increasing, and there is an urgent need to develop innovative therapies that promote liver regeneration following hepatectomy for this disease. Mesenchymal stem cells conditioned medium (MSC-CM) is considered a rich source of paracrine factors that can repair tissues and restore the function of damaged organs. Meanwhile, hydrogels have been widely recognized to load MSC secretome and achieve sustained release. This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effect of hydrogel-encapsulated MSC-CM on liver regeneration of partial hepatectomy (PHx) in a rodent model of diet-induced hepatic steatosis.
Methods
Male Lewis rats were fed with a methionine and choline–deficient diet. After 3 weeks of feeding, PHx was performed and were randomly allocated into two groups that received hydrogel-encapsulated MSC-CM or vehicle via the intramesenteric space of superior mesenteric vein (SMV) perfused area immediately after PHx.
Results
The number of each TUNEL- and cleaved caspase-3 positive nuclei in hepatocytes at 9 hours after PHx were significantly decreased in the MSC-CM group, suggesting that MSC-CM suppressed apoptosis. MSC-CM increased serum immunoregulatory cytokine interleukin 10 and interleukin 13 at 30 hours after PHx. The regeneration of the remnant liver at 30 and 168 hours after PHx was significantly accelerated, and the expressions of proliferating cell nuclear antigen were significantly enhanced in the MSC-CM group. Additionally, mitotic figures and cyclin D1 expression decreased and hepatocyte size increased in the MSC-CM group, implying that this mode of regeneration was mainly through cell hypertrophy rather than cell division. Gene ontology analysis on differentially expressed genes exhibited a significant depletion for genes involved in sensory perception of smell in the MSC-CM group. MSC-CM treatment significantly increased hepatic ATP and β-hydroxybutyrate content at 168 hours after PHx, indicating that MSC-CM fosters regeneration not only in volume but also in functionality.
Conclusions
MSC-CM represent a novel therapeutic approach for patients with MASLD requiring PHx.
Remote Sensing Detection and Geological Verification of the Qiaobei Town-Suqian Fault: A Case Study of the Sihong Section
Authors: Wu Hao , Xu Zhiying , Wang Cheng , Sheng Jian , Zhu Yinan , Wang Jian 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The Tan-Lu Fault Zone, a significant geological structural boundary in Eastern China, has historically been the source of numerous major earthquakes. This study zeroes in on a pivotal branch of this fault zone—the Qiaobei Town-Suqian Fault, situated in Sihong County. Present knowledge regarding the seismic activity patterns and potential hazards of this fault segment is somewhat restricted. Through the synthesis of remote sensing technology and field investigations, this paper endeavors to precisely delineate the geographical distribution of the Qiaobei Town-Suqian Fault in the vicinity of Sihong, aiming to provide scientific backing for regional earthquake risk evaluation and disaster prevention initiatives.
Using the Behaviour Change Wheel and Theoretical Domains Framework in the Co-Design of a Recycling Intervention Implemented in a Rural Australian Public Hospital
Authors: Letts Alexander , Knight Kay , Halliday Daniel , Singleton Judith 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Healthcare waste is growing annually at a rate of 2–3% globally with negative implications for environmental and population health. Improving recycling of non-contaminated healthcare waste can reduce carbon emissions and landfill use with consequent financial and health co-benefits. This paper reports the development of a co-designed behavioural change recycling intervention in a small, rural hospital in Queensland, Australia. The aim was to reduce the amount of potentially recyclable or reusable non-contaminated waste currently ending up in landfill.
Methods
This study utilised co-design to develop a behavioural change intervention informed by an evidence-based, theoretical framework – the integrated Behaviour Change Wheel (BCW) and Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF). This study was undertaken in a 20-bed rural Queensland Health hospital and included hospital staff in the co-design of a recycling intervention. The waste streams chosen were commingled recycling stream and waste accepted by the Containers-for-Change recycling scheme. Two co-design workshops were held onsite at the hospital on 2nd June (n = 8) and 3rd August 2023 (n = 6) followed by a visit to the hospital on 31st August 2023 to implement the recycling intervention. Final data collection was undertaken at the end of November 2023.
Results
The co-designed intervention comprised placing commingled bins (grey with yellow lids) and CFC bins (grey with white lids) at points of recyclable waste generation with signage and ‘train-the-trainer’ education sessions with the green champions. Over the 3-month post-intervention data collection period there was a reduction of 1.25t for the general waste stream, 0.1042t of recyclable waste was recycled through the newly introduced CFC scheme, and an increase of 0.07t of commingled recyclable waste after the intervention. In summary, across a three-month period, this co-designed recycling intervention reduced CO2e by 2t. This equates to a reduction of 13,652 km of car travel in an Australian sedan or light SUV. Importantly, it also diverted approximately 3,000 plastic bottles and 866 aluminium cans from landfill.
Conclusions
Despite the small number of participants in the two co-design workshops, combining co-design with an evidence-based theoretical framework (BCW + TDF) produced a robust, fit-for-purpose, recycling intervention that led to behaviour change (recycling).
Perception of concern and associated factors during the COVID-19 pandemic: an epidemiological survey in a Brazilian municipality
Authors: Barbosa Adriano Pires , Batista Marília Jesus 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic impacted mental health. This cross-sectional study analyzed the perception of concern related to the pandemic in the population of Jundiaí-SP in June 2020. Participants consisted of residents of households selected by probability sampling and individuals with respiratory symptoms who sought Basic Health Units (UBS). The participants underwent rapid testing for SARS-CoV-2 and answered a questionnaire. The outcome was the perception of concern and the independent variables were socioeconomic characteristics, behavioral variables, signs and symptoms, and rapid test results. Bivariate analysis was performed and variables with p<0.20 were included in a binary logistic regression model (p<0.05) using SPSS 20.0. A total of 2,432 individuals participated in the study, including 1,181 from UBS and 1,251 from households. Females (OR:1.42; CI:1.18-1.71), black and mixed race participants (OR:1.40; CI:1.15-1.71), participants with an income up to 3 minimum wages (MW) (up to 1 MW: OR:2.58; CI:1.80-3.70; 1 to 3 MW: OR:1.64; CI:1.35-1.98), and younger participants (18-39 years: OR:3.07; CI:2.39-3.94; 40-59 years: OR:2.42; CI:1.89-3.10) were more concerned. Greater concern was perceived by more vulnerable individuals, regardless of testing positive for COVID-19. Knowledge of the concerns caused by the pandemic is important to prevent more serious mental health conditions.
Experimental Study of Rock Fracture Behavior under Direct Tension using Three-Dimensional Digital Image Correlation
Authors: Guo Xiaoxiao , Tang Yang , Liu Jianfeng , Chen Cancan , Zhang Hailong , Zhang Fan , Okubo Seisuke 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Understanding the mechanical characteristics of rocks when subjected to direct tension is crucial for assessing the stability of rock formations. Within the scope of this research, a series of tests was conducted using Tage tuff to assess the deformation behavior and crack extension of rock under direct tension. The axial, lateral, and shear strain fields as well as crack propagation, localized deformation behavior, and failure mode of the rocks were analyzed using three-dimensional digital image correlation method. The results showed that the axial strain fields on the specimen surface were heterogeneous, with different locations and localization occurring in the pre-peak stage, which was similar to the evolution of shear strain, whereas the lateral strain only showed slight changes. The crack extension direction was inferred, indicating that both tensile and shear stress occurred in the tests. Furthermore, different stress–strain responses were observed for the inside and outside of the localized bands. Then, the surface patterns of specimen failure were scanned and analyzed to assess the failure mode and residual strength of the specimen under direct tensile stress. Finally, the results of direct tension, uniaxial compression, and Brazilian split tests for Tage tuff were compared, and the complete stress–strain curve of uniaxial tension (UT) was simulated using a nonlinear-variable-compliance constitutive equation. This study provides a deeper understanding into the damage behavior of rocks under direct tension.
Experimental Determination of Gas-Liquid Interfacial Tension for POE ISO 10/R-134a Mixtures Using the Maximum Bubble Pressure Method
Authors: Pizarro-Recabarren Rodrigo A. , Ferreira Júlio C. A. , Barbosa Jader 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

This paper presents the development of an experimental apparatus designed for measuring the interfacial tension of a POE ISO 10/R-134a mixture under varying solubility conditions using the maximum bubble pressure method (MBPM). The apparatus features two capillary tubes immersed in a liquid volume against which a vapor bubble expands to determine interfacial tension. Key parameters of the MBPM, including bubble formation frequency and chamber volume, were meticulously fine-tuned for accurate calibration. Calibration was performed using a water/N2 mixture within the same apparatus, and the results were validated against established literature data. The experimental setup exhibited high sensitivity to bubble formation frequency, requiring precise maintenance at a constant rate of 1.0 Hz. Notably, the two-capillary model demonstrated superior performance compared to classical constant-adjusted models. A satisfactory fit for the R-134a/POE ISO 10 system was achieved with a mixing-law coefficient of r=1/7, highlighting significant deviation from ideal mixture behavior (r=1)
Application of minimally invasive dermabrasion in deep second-degree facial burn wounds during the early postburn stage
Authors: Zhang Chuwei , Li Zihan , Zhang qingrong , Jiang Ming , Zhu zhihan , Wang Bolin , Zhang Xunrui , Zhu Xihua , Qi Jun , Cai Yuhui , Wang lei , Hu Kesu , Zhang Yi 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Objective
To explore the therapeutic effect of minimally invasive dermabrasion in deep second-degree facial burn wounds during the early postburn stage.
Methods
Thirty-five patients with deep second-degree facial burn wounds were treated with minimally invasive dermabrasion using the hydrodynamic debridement system within 2–4 days after injury. Then, wounds were covered with human biological dressings. We observed the wound infection rate, wound healing time and healing quality after debridement. Level of Evidence: Level V, therapeutic study.
Result
In this group of 35 patients with deep second-degree facial burn wounds, no infection was observed after debridement. The wound healing time was 9–17 days with an average healing time of 12.26 ± 2.15 days. The wound healing quality was satisfactory. The healing scars of the burn wounds were assessed using the Vancouver Scar Scale and had an average score of 0.86 ± 0.84.
Conclusions
Minimally invasive dermabrasion during the early postburn stage can reduce wound infection, prevent wound deepening, shorten wound healing time, improve wound healing quality, and reduce the occurrence of pigmentation and scar hyperplasia contracture deformity. Therefore, minimally invasive dermabrasion during the early postburn stage is of great significance in the treatment of deep second-degree facial burn wounds.
Lateral approach for regenerative surgery of intrabony defects associated with edentulous alveolar ridge/third molar removal: A prospective case series
Authors: Hromčík Filip , Halusková Adéla , Hollá Lydie Izakovičová 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
This study evaluated the clinical efficacy of the lateral approach, designed explicitly for unchallenged isolated intrabony defects associated with edentulous alveolar ridges, combined with an enamel matrix derivative (EMD) and bovine-derived bone grafting in the regenerative surgical treatment.
Methods
Seven intrabony defects distal to the lower second molar were treated using a lateral approach combined with EMD and bone grafting. The primary parameters measured were clinical attachment level (CAL) and pocket probing depth (PPD). Clinical outcomes were assessed 6 months post-surgery and compared with the baseline values.
Results
Pocket closure and primary wound healing occurred in 100% of cases, and no complications were reported in terms of flap dehiscence, graft exposure, or suture failure. At the 6-month re-evaluation, the initial median CAL of 6 mm (interquartile range: 5–8 mm) was reduced to 3 mm (3–5 mm). The corresponding median PPD was reduced from 6 mm (6–8 mm) to 4 mm (3–5 mm). The differences were statistically significant for both primary parameters (p <0.05).
Conclusions
The lateral approach is a valid technique for the surgical treatment of intrabony defects associated with the edentulous ridge. This method seems particularly suitable for distal intrabony defects in the lower second molars, which frequently develop after third molar extraction.
Study Registration
This study was not intended as a clinical trial and according to https://grants.nih.gov/policy/clinical-trials/definition.htm is not considered a clinical trial, since its main purpose is “solely to refine measures”. The registration was therefore not required by the Ethics Committee approving the study protocol.
Application of Bedside Small-group Problem-based Learning in Clinical Practice Teaching of Dermatology
Authors: Tang Xianfa , Wang Wenjun , Shen Songke , Tang Huayang 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background and aims
The problem-based learning (PBL) teaching model has significant advantages in inspiring and improving clinical thinking among medical students. Bedside teaching has always been regarded as one of the ideal clinical teaching modes. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of bedside small-group PBL on dermatologic teaching in medical students.
Methods
Fifty interns (undergraduates) were randomly divided into the study and control groups. The study group received bedside PBL teaching while the control group received traditional bedside teaching. The teaching effectiveness of the two groups was evaluated by the computer-based case simulations (CCS), the mini clinical evaluation exercise (mini-CEX) and students’ satisfaction surveys.
Results
The average CCS score of the study group was significantly higher than that of the control group (P < 0.05). For the mini-CEX, the medical interviewing skills, clinical judgment, counseling skills, organizational efficiency and overall clinical competence in study group significantly higher than those of the control group (P < 0.05). The overall satisfaction, stimulation of active learning, improvement of clinical skills, facilitation of counseling skills and enhancement of teamwork were higher than those of the control group (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
The bedside small-group PBL teaching model can not only stimulate the actively learning for undergraduates, but also improve their clinical reasoning, counseling skills and overall clinical competence, which can be served as a training system of dermatological clinical practice for medical undergraduates.
Relationship between quantitative tracheal geometry and clinical course in various types of vascular ring
Authors: Fukushima Naoya , Maeda Jun , Yoshimura Yukihiro , Shibuya Kazuhiko , Nagamine Hiroki , Miura Masaru 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Purpose
To investigate the relationship between quantitative tracheal geometry and clinical course among various types of vascular ring and to identify factors correlating with symptom presentation.
Methods
Patients with vascular ring diagnosed between April 2010 and December 2022 were included. All the patients were classified as type 1 (complete double aortic arch); type 2 (incomplete double aortic arch); type 3 (circumflex aorta); type 4 (right aortic arch and aberrant left subclavian artery with a left retroesophageal diverticulum of Kommerell); or type 5 (mirror-imaged right aortic arch with retroesophageal aortic diverticulum). Their clinical characteristics and quantitative variables on computed tomography (CT) imaging were compared.
Results
Of the 50 patients enrolled, type 1 tended to have a smaller luminal tracheal diameter at the level of the ring. The median symptom-free survival time was shortest in this group (16.0 days [95% confidence interval (CI): 9.4–51.0]), followed by type 3 (138.0 days [95% CI 0.0–851.4]). Type 1 (hazard ratio [HR]: 10.7; 95% CI: 1.8–23.9; P = 0.001), type 3 (HR: 4.5; 95% CI: 1.4–14.2; P = 0.011), and the percentage of tracheal narrowing in the anteroposterior projection (HR: 0.87; 95% CI: 0.79–0.97; P = 0.010) were significantly associated with symptom presentation in the time-dependent course.
Conclusions
Aortic arch encircling the entire circumference in type 1 and high-pressure vasculature in front of the vertebral body in types 1 and 3 may contribute to raising the risk of symptom presentation.