bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of dental midline shifting among 7- to 15-year-old children in Babylon/Iraq
Authors: Salman Omaima L. , Al Khafaji Sarah Y. , Wais Zahraa M. H. 
Published: November 2023

OBJECTIVE:
This study aimed to determine the prevalence of dental midline shifting in a group of children with mixed dentition aged 7–15 years in Babylon/Iraq and assess the association between different variables including gender, age stages, residency, and Angle's classes of malocclusions with midline shifting.

MATERIALS AND METHOD:
A total of 300 dentate children aged 7–15 years (119 males and 131 females) were randomly chosen from children who visited the Department of Orthodontics, Pedodontics, and Prevention at the College of Dentistry/University of Babylon. The participants were from various environmental areas (162 urban and 88 rural area subjects). The dental midline shifting evaluation includes verifying the maxillary and mandibular dental midline positions with respect to the facial midline, taking philtrum as a guide. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0 for Windows was used for data analyses using Pearson's Chi-square tests. The significance level was set at P < 0.05.

RESULTS:
More than half of the total sample had dental midline shifting (55.66%), which was relatively more prevalent in the mandible than in the maxilla. The prevalence of dental midline shifting was more common in females (31.3%), subjects over the age of 12 years (20%), and subjects from urban areas (37%). The midline deviation was more frequent in Angle's class I (34%) and class II (13%) malocclusion than in Angle's class III malocclusion (9%) with statistically significant differences (P = 0.028). 63.47% of the sample had midline shifts of 2 mm or more.

CONCLUSIONS:
About half of the studied sample showed a maxillary–mandibular dental midline shift. The dental midline shift is more commonly noticed in females and children over 12 years old. A statistically significant difference was found between the shift of the dental midline and Angle's classes of malocclusions, with class I having the greatest midline shift.
Assessment of self-perceived malocclusion and barriers to orthodontic treatment: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Zulkiffili Aiman Muhamad , Roslan Luqman Hakim , Azrin Nurul Husna Ilyana , Azmi Nuruljannah Nor , Manivannan Prathap Chandar , Yap Yeannie Hui-Yeng 
Published: November 2023

CONTEXT:
Malocclusion is a common dental issue that can lead to significant oral health problems. However, patient management and treatment options for malocclusion can vary, and there is a lack of information regarding self-perception and barriers to orthodontic care.

AIMS:
This study aimed to assess the self-perception of malocclusion and explore barriers to orthodontic care among residents of Bandar Saujana Putra in Klang Valley, Malaysia.

SETTINGS AND DESIGN:
A cross-sectional study through the use of a validated questionnaire was distributed to the residents of Bandar Saujana Putra. Responses were collected from June 2021 to February 2022 via both online (Google Forms) and physical forms.

METHODS AND MATERIAL:
The questionnaire consists of four sections, which assessed the respondents' demographics, understanding and awareness toward malocclusion, and barriers to orthodontic care.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED:
Responses were analyzed using the Pearson Chi-square test with IBM SPSS version 26.

RESULTS:
A total of 231 responses were collected from 83 (35.9%) males and 148 (64.1%) females. Females had a significantly higher level of awareness and knowledge regarding malocclusion compared to males (P < 0.05). The majority of the female respondents (83.8%) agreed that malocclusion can lead to dental caries (P = 0.02) and 60.8% of them identified “unpleasant appearance” as the main barrier to orthodontic treatment (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS:
The findings suggest that clear braces could be a viable alternative for patients who are concerned with their appearance and may be a solution to the barrier of “unpleasant appearance.” Our study contributes to the existing literature on malocclusion and barriers to orthodontic care in Malaysia.
Comparative evaluation of impact strength of mechanically modified heat polymerized polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) resin with addition of 0.5, 1, 2 wt% of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs): An in-vitro study
Authors: Mithran Akash , Rakhra Jaismeen , Jain Saket Kumar , Chikkanna Meenakumari , Gowrish S , Pillai Sonal Gurunath , Babu Suresh J , Swarnalatha C , Nayyar Abhishek Singh 
Published: November 2023

OBJECTIVE:
Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) is one of the most widely used denture base material because of favorable esthetics and desirable characteristics such as easy handling. Acrylic resins, although, have some inherent disadvantages such as relatively poor physical and mechanical properties. The objective of the present study was to evaluate and compare the impact strength of unmodified and modified heat cure PMMA-based denture base material with addition of different concentrations of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) (0.5, 1, 2 wt%).

METHODS:
The present in-vitro study comprised of a total of 60 samples allocated to four groups with Group A samples consisting of heat cure acrylic resin without any modification (used as control); Group B samples consisting of heat cure acrylic resin modified with 0.5 wt% of AgNPs; and subsequently, Group C and Group D samples consisting of heat cure acrylic resin modified with 1 wt% and 2 wt% of AgNPs, respectively. The impact strength of the prepared acrylic samples was evaluated using Izod/Charpy Impact Tester, while the values obtained were tabulated and subjected to statistical analysis. Statistical analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 17.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA), while one-way analysis of variance and Tukey's multiple post-hoc procedures were used for statistical analysis. P < .05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS:
The highest impact strength was found in Group C samples consisting of heat cure acrylic resin modified with 1 wt% of AgNPs to be closely followed by Group B samples consisting of heat cure acrylic resin modified with 0.5 wt% of AgNPs. Group D samples consisting of heat cure acrylic resin modified with 2 wt% of AgNPs, although, revealed relatively lower impact strength compared to Group B and Group C samples.

CONCLUSIONS:
Within the limitations of the present study, it was concluded that the impact strength of mechanically modified heat polymerized PMMA resin was significantly enhanced with addition of varying concentrations of AgNPs, although, it was observed that with an increase in the concentration of AgNPs, a subsequent decrease in the tensile strength of the final polymer material was observed.
Comparative evaluation of variations in torque expression in maxillary incisor and canine using different bracket prescriptions placed at different crown levels by finite element (FE) method: An in-vitro analysis
Authors: Sivanandam Muruganandam , Venkata Kalyan Vikram , Rajendran Ramya , Arafath M. Mohamed , Sudhakar V , Chinnasamy Anandadevi , Mallela Santhi Sree , Babu Suresh J , Swarnalatha C , Nayyar Abhishek S. 
Published: November 2023

OBJECTIVE:While using preadjusted brackets, the position of the bracket on the crown is one of the deciding factors that determine the tooth's final tip, torque, height, and rotation. The final tooth position is not optimal if the bracket is placed incorrectly or if the varying crown morphology does not correspond with the bracket design. The present study was conducted to evaluate and compare the variations in torque expression in maxillary incisor and canine using different bracket prescriptions placed at different crown levels by finite element method.METHODS:For the present study, three-dimensional models of maxillary right central incisor and canine were made using CREO version 4.0 software. CREO is a powerful three-dimensional (3-D) computer-based, computer-aided design (CAD) software developed by Parametric Technology Corporation (PTC) to aid in design processes. Simulation was done to replicate the clinical situation of an active palatal root torque acting on the incisor and canine. The induced palatal movement of root tips and labial movement of crowns tips, overall stress, and von Mises stress generated in the brackets and the total equivalent strains developed in the periodontal ligament (PDL) were calculated, while the values obtained were tabulated and subjected to statistical analysis.RESULTS:Based on the findings of the present study, the average maximum stress produced in the bracket was calculated as 265.069 Mpa in incisor and 166.742 Mpa in the canine. Likewise, the average of the maximum displacement of root apex observed in the present study was calculated as 0.01401 mm in the incisor and 0.00421 mm in the canine, while the average strain developed in the PDL was calculated as 0.0587 for incisor and 0.0498 for the canine. Furthermore, it was, also, observed that the magnitude of strain developed in the PDL increased with increase in the stress produced by the bracket prescription for both incisor and canine.CONCLUSIONS:Within the limitations of the present study, it was concluded that the magnitude of displacement of root apex was significantly influenced by bracket prescription and bracket position. Also, the stress developed in the bracket was influenced by bracket prescription and position, while the variation in crown morphology in the incisor and canine played a significant role in the eventual strain developed in the PDL after torque application.
Assessment of the influence of metal ions released from the fixed orthodontic appliances on the static friction and surface topography of stainless steel and I archwires: An in-vitro study
Authors: Yakop Hussein S. , Al Qassar Sarmad S. Salih , Aljoubory Mahmood Ahmad Hamood 
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND:
Static friction force between the orthodontic brackets and wire impacts the sliding mechanics that affect teeth movements and treatment duration. This sliding media is jam-packed with released metal ions from the fixed appliances. This study aimed to assess the static frictional force and surface topography of stainless steel (SS) and I archwires in dry conditions and in media fully with metal ions that were released from fixed appliances.

METHODS:
In this research study, a set of 60 as-received straight archwires specimens (5 cm wire) were employed and categorized into two groups based on the material type [30 super elastics new I archwires gauge (0.018 × 0.014 inch) and 30 SS archwires 0.018 × 0.022” as a control]. The archwires' static friction force was measured while sliding a loaded Roth SS brackets (0.018”) on the archwire using a universal tensile testing machine in dry and metal ions released media, while the surface topography was assessed using a noncontact AFM machine.

RESULTS:
The static friction of I archwire was significantly lower than the SS wire in dry condition. Metal ions media released from fixed appliances significantly reduced the Static friction compared to dry and wet conditions with deionized water for both wires. An Atomic Force Microscope machine surface roughness reports revealed that the highest mean of all three roughness parameters was found in the SS group, followed by I archwires in descending order. Additionally, metal ions media significantly reduce all roughness parameters.
Clinical profiles and predictors of survival in severe dengue cases
Authors: Che Isa Zainura , Lim Jo Anne , Ain Amelia Mohamed , Othman Fatin Aliaa , Kueh Yee Cheng , Tew Mei Mei , Masnan Maz Jamilah , Ibrahim Aznita 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Introduction:
Dengue is endemic in tropical countries. Severe dengue has a high risk of morbidity and mortality. We aimed to identify factors associated with dengue survival among our intensive care unit (ICU) patients.

Methods:
A retrospective study was conducted among dengue cases admitted to the ICU of Hospital Sultan Abdul Halim, Kedah, Malaysia from 2016 to 2019.

Results:
Out of 1,852 dengue cases admitted to the hospital, 7.2% of patients required ICU admission. Survival rate was 88.6% among severe dengue cases. The majority of severe dengue patients were obese, while other notable comorbidities included hypertension and diabetes mellitus. Also, 73% of patients presented in the critical phase, at a median of Day 4 of illness. All patients admitted to the ICU had a history of fever. The predominant warning signs were lethargy, fluid accumulation and haemoconcentration with rapid platelet reduction. Among nonsurvivors, 69.2% had fulminant hepatitis, 53.8% had massive bleeding or disseminated intravascular coagulation, 38.5% had haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis and 30.8% had myocarditis. The predominant serotypes were DENV-3 and DENV-1. The least number of cases was seen in 2017, when all serotypes were equally presented. Multiple logistic regression showed that Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score, peak international normalised ratio, peak partial thromboplastin time and aspartate aminotransferase on admission were independent risk factors for survival. This model had an area under the curve of 0.98, giving an overall 98.2% accuracy.

Conclusions:
Specific warning signs and blood investigations in dengue patients may aid in early decision for ICU admission. Monitoring of SOFA scores plus coagulation and liver enzyme profiles could improve dengue survival rates.
β-Blockers in Hepatosplenic Schistosomiasis: A Narrative Review
Authors: Gelape Fernanda Alves , Couto Claudia Alves , Cançado Guilherme Grossi Lopes 
Published: November 2023

ABSTRACT.
Hepatosplenic schistosomiasis (HSS) is a serious complication of chronic schistosomiasis that can result in portal hypertension and variceal bleeding. β-blockers, a class of medications commonly used to treat hypertension and other cardiovascular conditions, have been investigated for their potential use in preventing variceal bleeding in HSS. Several studies have shown that β-blockers can reduce portal pressure and prevent variceal bleeding effectively in these patients. However, there are limited data on the long-term efficacy and safety of β-blockers in this setting, and further research is needed to determine the optimal use of these medications. This review summarizes the evidence supporting current recommendations of β-blocker use in patients with HSS.
Philosophy of econophysics
Authors: Rickles Dean 
Published: November 2023

As its portmanteau naming implies, econophysics applies the concepts and methods of physics to economic systems. Given that economic phenomena are exhibited as emergent features of highly complex systems (e.g. financial markets), it is most often statistical physics that is employed (especially the theory of cooperative phenomena and of phase transitions), though other physics-based structural analogies have been made (for example, with the fibre bundles and connections of gauge theories and with quantum theory). Philosophical investigation of econophysics tends to focus on three key areas, each centring on issues of modelling: (1) realism and methodology; (2) the nature and explanation of economic features; and (3) emergence and complexity. These issues fall within philosophy of science rather than philosophy of economics because the phenomena econophysicists aim to reproduce (and explain) are patterns in data, rather than the underlying social behaviours that generated the data. Thus, though social behaviours generated the data, econophysics treats that data as if its source was just another complex natural phenomenon.
However, and somewhat paradoxically, a claim often made in support of econophysics is that, in being modelled after experimental physics, it offers a more physically realistic (and therefore methodologically superior) treatment of economic phenomena than does orthodox (‘neo-classical’) economics, which is based instead on deriving such phenomena as theorems from a priori (i.e. not derived from experience) principles (e.g. the axiom stating the perfect rationality of economic agents). That is, econophysics tends to be promoted as firmly rooted in economic reality (in the empirically observed facts, such as price changes, from which theories are then constructed) while standard economics is presented as dealing in ideal, unreal models. This often has an explicitly revolutionary flavour. As one popular econophysics textbook puts it, ‘econophysicists deny the very rules of the game on which mainstream academic research in economics is based’ (Challet et al. 2005: 14).
Causal explanation
Authors: Skow Bradford 
Published: November 2023

An explanation is an answer to a why-question, and so a causal explanation is an answer to ‘Why X?’ that says something about the causes of X. For example, ‘Because it rained’ as an answer to ‘Why is the ground wet?’ is a causal explanation.
Causal explanation is philosophically important because explanation-in-general is philosophically important, and causal explanation is a basic kind of explanation. So a complete philosophy will include a theory of explanation, and a complete theory of explanation will offer criteria for being a causal explanation.
The simplest theory of causal explanation says that ‘E happened because X’ is a causal explanation if X describes one or more causes of E. Another theory permits explanations that do less to count as causal explanations; it is enough to say something about the causes of E, without identifying any particular cause. The ‘manipulationist’ theory, by contrast, demands more. For any event E, there are factors which, had they been different, E would not have happened, or would have happened differently; this theory requires a causal explanation to both identify some of those factors and convey how E depends on them. No known theory is without problems.
If causal explanation is one basic kind of explanation, what are the others? Two candidates are teleological explanation (e.g. ‘the plant’s leaves turned east in order to face the sun’) and reason-for-action explanation (e.g. ‘that store sells milk; that was Smith’s reason for shopping there’). But it may be that explanations of these kinds are implicitly causal explanations – maybe, for example, every teleological explanation is equivalent to a causal explanation.
Effective field theories
Authors: Fraser James 
Published: November 2023

An effective field theory is a quantum field theory that is taken to describe the physical world in a limited range of length scales. While a fabled final theory of physics is supposed to describe the world down to arbitrarily small length scales, effective field theories provide a coarse-grained description of the behaviour of quantum fields and particles above some finite length scale. This way of thinking about quantum field theory models arose in the 1970s along with a framework called the renormalisation group. From this, and related techniques, a new methodology has arisen for constructing models of the behaviour of quantum particles at a particular physical scale.
Effective field theories have been connected to a number of epistemological and metaphysical debates in the philosophy of science. Some have seen the effective field theory concept as hostile to scientific realism, while others have attempted to use it to articulate and defend a form of scientific realism. Some have seen the relationship between effective field theories at different scales as exemplifying a form of emergence in physics, while others have argued that it falls under the purview of standard accounts of intertheoretic reduction. While little consensus has been reached on these questions it is, at least, agreed that the effective field theory ideology represents an important conceptual shift in the way that physicists think about scale which philosophers of science need to take into account.
Scientific imagination
Authors: Salis Fiora 
Published: November 2023

The scientific imagination is a cognitive ability that is crucial to a number of scientific practices aimed at producing new knowledge of contingent features of the world. Philosophers of science have generally neglected its roles as limited to the psychological or the social dimensions of scientific practices. This general attitude, however, has changed since the turn of the twenty-first century, when a vast literature on the scientific imagination started to emerge which focused on its uses in scientific thought experiments and scientific models. Three main questions are central to this literature.
The first is a foundational question concerning the nature of the scientific imagination. What is the scientific imagination? For a long time, philosophers of science have assumed a pre-theoretical notion of imagination as visual mental imagery (see Imagery). In 2020 the first taxonomy of the scientific imagination identified two main varieties of imagination: objectual imagination, which includes mental imagery; and propositional imagination, which includes at least supposition, counterfactual imagination, and make-believe.
The second question has to do with the contribution that imagination makes to a characterisation of scientific thought experiments and scientific models as objects that intrinsically involve imagination. Objectual imagination and propositional imagination map onto the two main accounts of the nature of scientific thought experiments and models developed in terms of imagination: the mental modelling account and the make-believe account. On the mental modelling account, scientific thought experiments are mental kinds, which involve sensory-like representations of objects that can be actively manipulated and transformed. On the make-believe account, both scientific thought experiments and scientific models are akin to aesthetic objects, specifically fictions. This account has been developed in different ways within the fiction view of models.
The third question concerns the contribution of imagination to scientific knowledge. What sort of knowledge, if any, does imagination produce in scientific practice? Historically, the role of imagination in science has been limited to the context of discovery, where new ideas and hypotheses are generated. On this picture, imagination has no role to play in the context of justification, which is the proper context of knowledge and epistemic standards. The traditional distinction between discovery and justification has been put under scrutiny since the second half of the twentieth century. In particular, two cognitive theories of discovery have been developed in terms of the mental modelling account and the make-believe account. Whether imagination can provide justification for scientific knowledge, however, is a matter of debate.