bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Light Polymerization through Glass-ceramics: Influence of Light-polymerizing Unit’s Emitted Power and Restoration Parameters (Shade, Translucency, and Thickness) on Transmitted Radiant Power
Authors: Farah Ra’fat I. , Alblihed Ibrahim A. , Aljuoie Alhareth A. , Alresheedi Bandar 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background:
This in vitro study assessed light transmission through ceramic discs varying in shade, translucency, and thickness using light-polymerizing units with different radiant power/flux (RP) outputs.

Methods:
Disc-shaped specimens (0.5 mm, 1.0 mm, and 2.0 mm) were made from high and low-translucency glass-ceramic ingots (IPS e.max Press) in shades A1 and A4, totaling 60 discs. Two light-polymerizing units with different power outputs were used, and their emission spectra were verified. The transmitted RP values for each ceramic specimen were measured and irradiance and radiant energy influx were calculated. Differences between the light-polymerizing units and the influence of the three ceramic parameters were evaluated using an independent-samples t-test and three-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) tests (α = 0.05).

Results:
A statistically significant difference was observed in the mean transmitted RP values between the two light-polymerizing units. Furthermore, the three-way ANOVA test showed a significant effect of shade, translucency, and thickness, as well as a significant interaction between each pair of variables and all three variables on the transmitted RP (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:
Despite the significant attenuation in the transmitted RP, especially in ceramics with higher shade chromaticity and thickness and lower translucency, the calculated minimal irradiance values for both light-polymerizing units (their emitted power ≥ 500 mW) were greater than the minimum recommended irradiance threshold (100 mW/cm2). However, the exposure duration needs to be increased to provide the resin with sufficient radiant exposure for adequate polymerization.
Oral Manifestations of Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia 2B Syndrome: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Banerjee Sohini , Kar Debkamal 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) 2B syndrome is a rare autosomal dominant hereditary condition of neuroendocrine origin characterized by pheochromocytoma, marfanoid habitus, and mucocutaneous neuromas. Multiple mucosal neuromas on the tongue, lips, cheeks, and inner eyelids are often appeared as the earliest signs in most of the undiagnosed cases. Early diagnoses, recognition of phenotype, adequate surgery, and appropriate genetic counseling are very much essential as patients often develop medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) and pheochromocytoma. This case report would highlight the oral manifestations of MEN 2B in a 22-year-old female patient with multiple mucosal neuromas and a previous history of thyroidectomy due to MTC.
Antibacterial Effects of Silver Diamine Fluoride with and without Potassium Iodide against Streptococcus mutans
Authors: Alvarez-Marín Carlos Alonso , Robles-Bermeo Norma Leticia , Hassan Moustafa Wael Hegazy , Medina-Solís Carlo Eduardo 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is a topical treatment for carious lesions and a primary preventative for newly exposed high-risk surfaces such as fissures and roots in the first molars. Using potassium iodide (KI) after applying SDF has been recommended as a way of reducing the severity of black staining, as well as preserving its antibacterial effect useful in deep caries.

Objective:
The objective of this research was to compare the antibacterial effect of SDF, with and without KI, on Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) and dental biofilm.

Methods:
The antibacterial effects of SDF, KI, and the combination of both were measured using three different techniques (inhibition halo, minimum inhibitory effect [MIE], and colony-forming unit [CFU], testing).

Results:
The results were then subjected to statistical analysis. Analyzed by means of the Kruskal–Wallis statistical test, the inhibition halos yielded a value of P = 0.3309. Using the MIE test, only the SDF treatment produced an antibacterial effect, at 10%, compared to the KI group, with P = 0.001. Finally, the CFU test revealed a total absence of colonies for all three reagents. All three substances analyzed achieved total inhibition of S. mutans. SDF is effective even in its minimal commercial concentration. Its antibacterial capacity decreases with the addition of KI.

Conclusions:
The three substances analyzed at their maximum concentrations exhibited an antibacterial effect against S. mutans, resulting in total inhibition.
Efficacy and Safety of Probiotics for Dental Caries in Preschool Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Panchbhai Aarati S. , Khatib Mahalaqua Nazli , Borle Rajiv M. , Deolia Shravani S. , Babar Vijay M. , Vasistha Anjali H. , Parida Ritika P. 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background:
Early childhood caries is one of the most serious and high-priced oral health conditions among young children. With advancing dental sciences, the focus of dental caries treatment is shifted from restorative procedures to preventive measures, and a modality grabbing attention is probiotics. Probiotics exert their effects in many ways as chemical inhibition of pathogenic bacteria and stimulation of the immune response through the production of immunoglobulin A and many more.

Objective:
This systematic review aims to explore the efficacy and safety of probiotics in dental caries in preschool children.

Methodology:
The study was registered in the PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (registration number: CRD42020159058). The search was done for randomized control trials in electronic databases such as Cochrane, PubMed, ClinicalTrials.gov, Medline, and Embase. It has further included manual searches of journals, conference abstracts, and books. Three reviewers done the selection of the study as per the criteria and also did the risk of bias assessment independently and wherever required, a fourth reviewer resolved the discrepancy in case of disagreement.

Results:
The nine randomized control trials were included in the study, and the pooled analysis revealed probiotics as an effective intervention in preschool children with dental caries.

Conclusion:
The results about the efficacy of probiotics in the prevention of dental caries are very encouraging, though the level of evidence is still inadequate.
Effect of Different Mini Implant Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion (MARPE) Designs on Maxillary Protraction in Skeletal Class III malocclusion: An FEM Study
Authors: Suresh Ashik , Velath Ajith Vallikat , Sarika K. , Prabha Rahul Damodaran , Varma N. K. Sapna 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background:
Four different designs of mini-implant-assisted rapid palatal expansion (MARPE) and protraction in nasomaxillary complex and mid-palatal sutures in late adolescent skeletal Class III malocclusion were compared using a three-dimensional finite element analysis.

Methods:
A finite element model of skull and related sutures was constructed using the computed tomography scan of a 16-year-old female patient with skeletal Class III and ANB of −2°. Four appliance designs: Type I: MARPE with palatal force, Type II: MARPE with buccal force, Type III: Hybrid hyrax with palatal force, and Type IV: Hybrid hyrax with buccal force. Protraction vectors were and analyzed using Ansys software (ANSYS 2021 R2). The displacement pattern of the nasomaxillary structures and the stress distribution in the sutures were examined in all four appliance designs.

Results:
All the appliance designs resulted in a forward movement of the maxilla, while Type I and III, which used palatal protraction force, caused the greatest forward displacement. In Type I, II, and III, along with forward movement, a clockwise rotation of maxilla was observed, while in Type IV, an anticlockwise rotation of maxilla was observed. Type I, II, and III resulted in higher stress distribution around the superior structures, while Type IV resulted in less stress distribution around the superior structures of maxilla.

Conclusion:
The forward displacement was enhanced when palatal plates were used to protract the maxilla. The effective appliance design for skeletal class III with open bite case was Type I, II, and III and Type IV for deep bite cases.
Evaluation of the Color Stability of Three Resin-Ceramic Materials Using a Spectrophotometer and a Digital Photography Software
Authors: Naffah Nicolas , Ounsi Hani , Ozcan Mutlu , Salameh Ziad 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background:
Computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) resin ceramics allow easier milling than glass ceramics but are suspected to be more stainable. Although Photoshop® is widely used for picture analysis, its potential for shade selection has not been properly assessed.

Aim:
Purpose primary: To evaluate the color stability of three CAD/CAM resin ceramics and Lithium Disilicate. Secondary: to compare the color evaluation between a spectrophotometer (Vita Easyshade compact) and Photoshop software.

Materials and Methods:
Three CAD/CAM resin ceramic materials (n = 10) and a fourth group of lithium disilicate were used. Half of each group were thermocycled (5°C and 55°C; 3000 cycles). All samples were immersed in colored beverages (coffee, tea and red wine) for 30 days. Values were obtained by spectrophotometry and photographs analyzed using Photoshop software. The parameters measured were CIEL*a*b, and the color difference (ΔE) was analyzed. A mixed model test was used to compare the results through time and materials (α = 0.05). The comparison between the spectrophotometer and Photoshop results was performed using the bivariate Pearson’s correlation test.

Results:
Lithium disilicate glass ceramic exhibited less color change (ΔE = 14) than resin ceramics (15.7 < ΔE < 18.7). The least change was noted with GC Cerasmart (ΔE = 15.7) followed by Vita Enamic (ΔE = 17*) and Brilliant Crios (ΔE = 18.7*). Spectrophotometer and Photoshop values showed low correlations.

Conclusions:
Resin ceramics may suffer from color change in clinical use. Photoshop is technique sensitive; pictures are easily affected by the light conditions and camera settings.
Epithelioid angiosarcoma of the pericardium: Case report of the challenges in the management of a rare malignancy with poor prognosis
Authors: Guleria Bhupesh , Guleria Prerna , Husain Azhar , Jain Anurag , Raphael Jes , Sengupta Prasanta 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
A primary epithelioid angiosarcoma of the pericardium is a rare soft tissue malignancy. This report describes a young adult woman who presented with progressive dyspnea and pericardial effusion. She was found to have pericardial mass on imaging along with extensive myocardial infiltration. The biopsy of the mass revealed epithelioid angiosarcoma, which was CD34 and CD31-immuno-positive. Due to unresectable disease, she was given a trial of immunotherapy followed by conventional chemotherapy. She showed partial response on interim assessment, but progressed soon after the completion of six cycles and succumbed to her rapidly progressive illness within nine months of diagnosis. This report discusses the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges faced while managing this disease of aggressive tumor biology.
Current Landscape of Work Modes and Tools in Higher Education in the Research Development Field
Authors: Malaby Heidi L. H. , Balakrishnan Kaushik , Milutinovich Mark , Holloway Kim 
Published: March 2024

We conducted an online survey of National Organization of Research Development Professionals (NORDP) members in the higher education research enterprise to identify trends in work modes and expand insights into how the current workforce is shaping the profession. We find: (1) Hybrid work has emerged as a dominant work mode and likely is here to stay; (2) Flexibility, communication, and expectations around RD work is critical for successful teamwork as RD professionals need to connect with leadership and investigators and meet their varying expectations; (3) Remote workers have the highest rated rates of personal productivity and personal well-being; (4) In-person workers perceived their work mode as the most permanent. Remote workers are unlikely to consider fully in-person roles in future; and (5) While institutions have done well in terms of providing basic technology support (laptop, monitors), they have neglected to provide resources for their remote workers (e.g., coverage for internet, phone and office supplies). With this first of its kind study in the RD field, our goals are to share the potential of work modes and empower our colleagues to either leverage these results into their institutions or advance the research by expanding the survey.
MOTIVATIONS AND CHALLENGES IN SPECIALIZING TECHNOLOGY AND LIVELIHOOD EDUCATION: A PHENOMENOLOGICAL INQUIRY
Authors: Mamayabay Mary Jane B. , Quilestino Maria Rina T. 
Published: March 2024

This paper aimed to analyze and interpret the students’ motivations and challenges in specializing in Technology and Livelihood Education during the hit of a pandemic. The study interpreted the shared experiences of the 12 BTLEd students using the phenomenological approach and a six-phase approach to thematic analysis (TA), popularized by (Clarke &amp; Braun, 2006). The findings showed four (4) common themes: continuity of previous academic journey, financial problems, access to supplementary learning materials, and TLE as a complex field of study. These recurring themes indicate that the absence of face-to-face interaction resulted in the students’ difficulties acquiring the required skill set for the subject. Moreover, future research on this particular topic may be carried out to investigate the particular areas or dimensions of the TLE program more in-depth.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0756/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>
INFLUENCE OF INSTRUCTIONAL SUPERVISION IN PROMOTION OF CHILD-FRIENDLY LEARNING ENVIRONMENT IN RURAL PUBLIC PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN MERU COUNTY, KENYA
Authors: Kihara Daniel Wambugu , Kimiti Richard Peter , Mulwa David 
Published: March 2024

Effective head teachers’ management practices should be aimed at fostering all-inclusive and child-focused learning environments for quality learning and the general well-being of all learners. The purpose of the study was to investigate the influence of instructional supervision in the promotion of a child-friendly learning environment in rural-based public primary schools in Meru County. The study utilised a descriptive survey design and targeted 775 teachers in rural-based public primary schools in Meru County. Simple random sampling was used to select a sample of 155 teachers. Data was collected through questionnaires. Data analysis was carried out through descriptive and inferential statistics. The results of the study revealed a significant relationship between instructional supervision and the promotion of a child-friendly learning environment (r (146) = .22, P = .007). The instructional supervision practices in the study were focused on: supervision of instructional processes, professional development, teacher empowerment, and instruction and guidance on curriculum delivery. Based on the findings, there is a need to improve on direct supervision of instructional processes towards enhancing teaching conditions and quality of learning. The study recommends that head teachers need to receive more in-service training in areas of professional development, and curriculum and assessment. The study further recommends that the government needs to avail more resources for continuous teacher empowerment and professional development plans.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0758/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>
CRISIS SITUATION AND THE CHALLENGES OF PRIMARY SECONDARY SCHOOL TRANSITION IN THE ENGLISH SPEAKING REGIONS OF CAMEROON
Authors: Yuomeyse Kenneth , Ngamaleu Henri Rodrigue Njengoué 
Published: March 2024

The study aims to identify the challenges that affect primary secondary school transition in crisis situations in the English-speaking regions of Cameroon. The attacks on students and teachers, forcing schools to close, destruction of teaching and learning facilities by Anglophone non-state armed groups have affected the transition from primary to secondary schools. Several hundreds of school children and students have dropped out of school as a result of the crisis that started in 2016. The dropout of students from schools because of the crisis motivated the researchers to carry out this study. The study made use of a qualitative research design. An interview guide was used for individuals and for focus group discussions to collect data. The sample was 60 participants including school dropouts, heads of households, school administrators, civil society, and religious authorities. The purposive sampling technique was employed to select the respondents. Data collected from the respondents was analysed using thematic content analysis. The results indicate the social and cultural norms, economic and systematic factors that limit primary secondary school transition, programmes implemented, and ways to prevent students from leaving schools before completing their studies. All children after finishing primary school would like to enroll in secondary education. The ministries of education should formulate policies and take appropriate measures that will meet international expectations and standards for effective transition from primary to secondary school in Cameroon. Children get the best of their future through education.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/lit/0758/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>
EDUCATIONAL ASPECTS ON SPECIAL NEED AND “CHARISMATIC” STUDENTS
Authors: Leontopoulos Stefanos , Skenderidis Prodromos , Liapopoulos Vaios , Chatzitheodorou Vasilios 
Published: March 2024

Teaching at any stage becomes effective when the student operates under the influence of learning motivation. However, in some cases, there are students who either appear learning difficulties or request special interests on their own and can be characterized as “charismatic”. In Greece, “charismatic” students are usually not separated from the rest of the students and often study and receive the same education as the rest of the students. As a result, their potential is not exploited and their motivation and school grades are reduced.The purpose of this work is to record the actions and means that should be used to teach students who have learning difficulties but also students who can be characterized as “charismatic”. In conclusion, teaching with the use of computers and other digital media can be integrated and significantly helps the teaching and learning of all subjects of the curriculum at all levels of education.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0798/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>
TEACHERS’ AVAILABILITY, SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION IN PUBLIC PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN BAYELSA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Ugolo Stella Peremoboere , Alonge Hezekiah O. 
Published: March 2024

The study is predicated on the assumption that teaching manpower is critical to education service delivery which is a vehicle for effecting sustainable growth and development of any society. The study therefore analyzed teachers’ availability, supply, and distribution in public primary schools in Bayelsa State. The study was descriptive adopting ex- post facto research design. The population of the study comprised all 3,571 teachers distributed across the 547 public primary schools in Bayelsa State as of the 2022/2023 academic session. It was a census study; therefore, a sample was not made. A checklist titled: Teachers Availability Distribution and Supply Checklist (TADSC) was used to collect data for the study. The data collected were analyzed using percentages and histogram charts. Findings from the study revealed that the enrolment of pupils in public primary schools was generally low and varied by local government area. It was also found that teachers were not adequately supplied while the available ones were not equitably distributed across the eight local government areas. Lastly, the results of the findings showed that the existing public primary schools in the State require adequately qualified classroom teachers for effective pedagogical-related assignments. Arising from the findings, it was recommended that the State government should provide existing public primary schools with basic teaching and learning facilities including qualified and adequate teaching manpower; rural communities should be provided with basic amenities while rural allowance/incentives for teachers should be increased to promote high teacher retention in local and rural areas; teachers should be redistributed across schools and local government areas for equity, fairness, and effective utilization by relevant authorities like the State Universal Education Board {SUBEB} and the State Ministry of Education.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/edu/0798/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>
THE MEDIATING EFFECT OF INTERPERSONAL COMMUNICATION ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE SELF-EFFICACY AND WORK ENGAGEMENT OF PUBLIC ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TEACHERS
Authors: Pudang Mariel M. , Apostol Raymunda L. 
Published: March 2024

The purpose of this study was to determine the mediating effect of interpersonal communication on the relationship between the self-efficacy and work engagement of teachers. Utilizing quantitative, non-experimental design via correlational technique, data were obtained from 300 respondents of the study who are teachers among public elementary schools in Baganga North and South District, province of Davao Oriental. The researcher utilized the Raosoft software for determining the number of respondents and an online survey mode of data collection. The researcher also utilized the statistical tools mean, Pearson r, and Medgraph using the Sobel z-test. From the results of the study, it was found that there is a very high level of self-efficacy, work engagement, and interpersonal communication among teachers. Also, results revealed that there is a significant relationship between self-efficacy and work engagement of teachers but showed no significant relationship between self-efficacy and interpersonal communication of teachers and between interpersonal communication and work engagement of teachers. Also, interpersonal communication has no significant mediating effect on the relationship between the self-efficacy and work engagement of teachers in public elementary schools.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0658/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>