bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cervical vertebral maturation as a predictor of the adolescent growth spurt
Authors: Grave Keith , Townsend Grant 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the application of an improved version of the Cervical Vertebral Maturation (CVM) method in a group of indigenous Australians and to relate the ossification events to the timing of peak growth in both stature and the mandible. Data were obtained from longitudinal records of 74 Australian Aboriginal children living at Yuendumu Settlement in the Northern Territory of Australia. CVM stages were limited to particular growth periods: in a large percentage of subjects stage 1 occurred in the pre-peak period of growth, stages 2 and 3 in the peak period, and stages 4 and 5 in the post-peak period. Our findings were similar to those reported in other ethnic groups, suggesting that they can be applied more generally in orthodontic practice to assess a child’s growth activity. In the majority of boys, CVM stage 2 would appear to be a good time to commence an orthopaedic phase of treatment, whereas in girls, results would support an earlier more cautious approach, sometime before stage 2 is reached. Peak growth occurs between stages 2 and 3 and timing is extremely important to maximize the effects of growth in the treatment process.
Comparison of radiation levels from computed tomography and conventional dental radiographs
Authors: Ngan Daniel C.S. , Kharbanda Om P. , Geenty Joseph P. , Ali Darendeliler M. 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Background: With the increasing use of computed tomography (CT) in oral diagnosis and treatment planning, concern has been expressed about the high levels of radiation used, and the associated risks.
Objectives: The purpose of this study was to compare the radiation doses of facial CT scans with the radiation doses taking a lateral cephalometric radiograph, a panoramic radiograph (OPG), an occlusal film, and an intra-oral periapical radiograph. Methods: An Alderson-Rando anthropomorphic phantom head was used for the analysis. Thirty-six lithium fluoride thermoluminescent dosimeters were placed in the phantom head in locations representing radiosensitive sites. Standard facial CT scans and conventional radiographs (lateral cephalometric, OPG, maxillary occlusal, intra-oral periapical) were then taken of the phantom head.
Results: The following radiation doses were measured: maxillo-mandibular CT scan, 2.1 mSv; maxillary CT scan, 1.40 mSv; mandibular CT scan, 1.32 mSv; lateral cephalometric radiograph, 0.005 mSv; OPG, 0.010 mSv; maxillary occlusal, 0.007 mSv; intra-oral periapical radiograph, 0.005 mSv.
Conclusions: CT scans produce significantly more ionising radiation than conventional radiographs. This factor should be taken into account when considering a CT scan as an alternative to a survey with conventional radiographs. While CT scans offer many advantages over conventional radiography the high radiation dose to patients, and the cost of this procedure should be considered.
An investigation of maxillary and mandibular morphology in different overjet groups
Authors: Baydaş Bülent , Yavuz İbrahim , Dagsuyu İlhan Metin , Bölükbaşi Berrin , Ceylan İsmail 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Background: It has been suggested that overjet may be related to the form of the maxilla and mandible.

Aims: The aims of this study were to compare the gender differences in the maxillary and mandibular morphology in different overjet groups, and to determine the associations between overjet and craniofacial morphology in the same subjects. Methods: The material consisted of lateral cephalometric radiographs of 80 untreated subjects (40 boys, 40 girls), aged 13 to 15 years, selected from records held in the Orthodontic Department, Atatürk University. The subjects were divided into four overjet groups. Thirteen linear, one angular, and three area measurements were used to assess maxillary and mandibular form in the male and female subjects.

Results: The results showed that there were statistically significant differences in the maxillary anterior and posterior dentoalveolar heights (MxAABH, MxPABH), effective mandibular length (Cd-Gn), corpus length (Go-Gn), and ramus width (RW) between the overjet groups. In 15 out of 17 measurements the males were significantly larger than the females. There were no gender differences in antegonial notch depth (AND) and the gonial angle. Furthermore, significant negative correlations were found between overjet and Cd-Gn, and between overjet and Go-Gn in the girls. Significant positive correlations were found between overjet and MxAABH, and overjet and RW in the boys.

Conclusions: Evaluation of the maxillary dentoalveolar heights and some mandibular parameters, such as Cd-Gn, Go-Gn and RW, in different overjet patterns may be useful in the analysis of the malocclusion, and prediction of treatment success.
Orthodontic treatment need of Nigerian outpatients assessed with the Dental Aesthetic Index
Authors: Onyeaso Chukwudi O. 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Background: When limited resources are available for orthodontic treatment, it is important that those with the greatest need receive treatment.

Aims: The aims of this study were to determine the orthodontic treatment needs of Nigerian children and young adults attending a University Hospital as outpatients, and to determine if a relationship exists between social class and orthodontic treatment need.

Methods: Of 148 consecutive patients attending a hospital department for orthodontic treatment, 136 were children and young adults (67 males, 69 females) between 6 and 18 years of age. These subjects were assessed with the Dental Aesthetic Index (DAI), and classified into two social classes with the Standard Occupational Classification.

Results: Almost 30 per cent of the children and young adults presenting for treatment had “no/little” need of orthodontic treatment, 20 per cent had DAI scores between 26 and 30 indicating that treatment was “elective”, 15 per cent had a “desirable” need for treatment, and 35 per cent had a “mandatory” need for treatment. There was a significant association (p < 0.05) between treatment need and social class: more subjects from the lower social classes (semi-skilled and unskilled occupations) needed orthodontic treatment than subjects from the higher social classes (professional, managerial, and skilled occupations). Conclusion: The study has shown that not all outpatients presenting/referred for orthodontic treatment “need” treatment. Patients from the semi-skilled and unskilled occupations were more likely to need orthodontic treatment than patients from the professional, managerial and skilled occupations.
Using Tuff and Limestone Sand to Minimize Water Consumption of Pavement Construction in Arid Regions
Authors: Mammeri Abdelhamid , Lallam Mostefa , Guellati Salah Eddine , Shamsaei Mohsen 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Soil compaction is a significant parameter for road construction projects. Since materials and soil compaction play important roles in the stability and durability of roads. This study focuses on the importance of the problems related to water resources in arid regions, considering both the economy and the population in these areas. For this reason, the local materials in Bechar (Algeria) were used to enhance the road construction process. Hence, using the combination of tuff and limestone sand (LS) materials to minimize the amount of water for the road construction compaction is investigated. Different combinations, including 100% tuff, 80% tuff and 20% limestone sand, 70% tuff and 30% limestone sand, and 60% tuff and 40% limestone sand, were evaluated with the Proctor and California Bearing Ratio (CBR) tests. The test results showed that using 60% tuff and 40% limestone sand resulted in the minimum water content of 10.5% compared to other combinations of tuff and limestone sand of this study, and it will be beneficial in arid regions where there is a water shortage. Three different percentages of lime (1%,2%, and 3%) were also added to the optimum mixture. However, the results showed that adding this material has no significant mechanical effects.
New records of Cecidomyiidae and other Sciaroidea (Diptera) from Slovakia
Authors: Sikora Tomáš , Sopuch Kryštof , Ševčík Jan 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
In this contribution, we present the first records of species from the families Cecidomyiidae, Keroplatidae, Mycetophilidae, and Sciaridae from Slovakia. A total of 45 species were identified, of which 44 species are new to Slovakia—29 in Cecidomyiidae, 3 in Keroplatidae, 8 in Mycetophilidae, and 4 in Sciaridae. New records for central Europe are as follows, Campylomyza nigroliminata Mamaev, 1998, Gynapteromyia brevipalpis (Mamaev, 1964), Arctepidosis jamalensis Mamaev, 1990, Asynapta magdalini Panelius, 1965, Camptomyia oldhammeri Jaschhof & Jaschhof 2019, Glemparon sagittifer Jaschhof, 2013, Neurepidosis hybrida Jaschhof & Jaschhof, 2019, Paratetraneuromyia nobilis (Felt, 1913), Porricondyla leacheana (Walker, 1856), Pseudepidosis lunaris Mamaev, 1966, Stackelbergiella rickebasta Jaschhof, 2013, Tetraneuromyia discrepans Jaschhof & Jaschhof 2019, T. moldaviensis (Spungis, 1987), and Sciophila minuta Zaitzev, 1982.
Climate change as a factor enhancing the invasiveness of alien species
Authors: Solarz Wojciech , Najberek Kamil , Tokarska-Guzik Barbara , Pietrzyk-Kaszyńska Agata 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Climate is one of the key factors governing the biological invasions of alien species, thus its change may have significant consequences for the scale of this process. We analyzed the predicted influence of climate change on the invasiveness of alien species in Poland and identified species susceptible to climate change. A total of 60 species of alien plants and 58 animals were assessed through an expert elicitation process. For 79 species climate change was assessed as the factor enhancing the likelihood of introduction, establishment, spread and/or impact in the future. Currently, the majority of these species are not widespread in Poland, and this list includes species totally absent, or present only in cultivation and captivity. Climate change will increase the number of high-risk invasive alien species (IAS) from 38 to 63. Species originating in warmer parts of the world are most susceptible to climate change. The majority of the high-risk IAS are regulated under the EU and Polish legislature. However, no restrictions have been imposed on some of the high-risk IAS. Since climate change will further increase their invasiveness, implementation of legal provisions towards these species is recommended.
Biophysical and anthropogenic factors affecting human and Tapanuli orangutan (Pongo tapanuliensis) conflict in Sumatran tropical rain forest, Indonesia
Authors: Samsuri  , Zaitunah Anita , Ashari Riyan Hari , Kuswanda Wanda 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Tapanuli orangutan (Pongo tapanuliensis) is a critically endangered species that must be conserved. One of the locations where it is found is Dolok Sipirok Natural Reserve. The threat to this species arises from land use of agriculture and accessibility to the area, resulting in human-orangutan conflict. Identification of conflict areas is necessary. Information on the contributing factors to conflicts between humans and orangutans is also important. This research analyzed the relationship between spatial characteristics with conflict location. The factors including distance to the forest boundary, road, and the river, slope, altitude, and land cover were analyzed. Statistical analysis was performed using Rank Spearman correlation coefficient was. The results showed that distance to farmland and altitude were the main factors affecting the conflict, while the weakest factor was distance from the road. Arse Nauli village was the place where most conflicts occurred. The most robust relationship with conflict was altitude.
The effect of osmotic stress, lighting spectrum and temperature on growth and gene expression related to anthocyanin biosynthetic pathway in wild strawberry (Fragaria vesca L.) in vitro
Authors: Vinskienė Jurgita , Bendokas Vidmantas , Stanys Vidmantas , Sasnauskas Audrius , Rugienius Rytis 
Published: December 2023

ABSTRACT
The goal of this research was to evaluate the effect of light, temperature, sucrose and PEG on the growth of Fragaria vesca in vitro and the expression of regulatory Myb10, WD40 and enzyme-coding genes CHI, CHS, DFR, EGL, F3H and UFGT, which are essential for anthocyanin biosynthesis. We observed plants’ response to osmotic stress, the decrease in growth and microshoot weight. A change in the expression of the investigated genes was evident under the suboptimal concentration of sucrose. The addition of PEG to the medium caused a decrease in microshoot weight and gene expression. Blue + red lights of the LED lighting system significantly affected microshoot growth in vitro. Red and blue + red + UV lights slightly reduced microshoot weight and caused a reddish colour of petioles, which indicate increased anthocyanin synthesis. Moreover, most of the studied genes’ expression tended to increase when shoots were exposed to blue, blue + red and blue + red + UV lights. A temperature of 15°C (vs 22°C) significantly reduced the mean fresh weight of microshoots while increasing CHI and CHS gene expression and decreasing WD40 gene expression. Exposure to a higher temperature (30°C) induced the vitrification of microshoots, although the fresh weight did not differ from that of the control. Gene expression also depended on the duration of exposure. In the case of CHS, gene expression remained the same or increased after exposure for 1 week and then decreased after exposure for 4 weeks.
Short-term duration of diabetic retinopathy as a predictor for development of diabetic kidney disease
Authors: Duan Jiayu , Liu Dongwei , Zhao Zihao , Liang Lulu , Pan Shaokang , Tian Fei , Yu Pei , Li Guangpu , Liu Zhangsuo 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Background
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a risk factor for diabetic kidney disease (DKD). Whether the duration, especially the short-term duration, of DR is associated with the development and progression of DKD remains unclear.

Materials and Methods
A retrospective study and two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis were conducted. Kidney disease was defined by the urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) and the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). DR was diagnosed by an expert ophthalmologist by using a digital fundus camera. Binary and ordinal logistic regression analyses were performed. A restricted cubic spline was utilized to detect nonlinear associations. Summary statistics for DR- and DKD-associated single-nuclear polymorphisms (SNPs) were extracted from the FinnGen and the UK Biobank consortia.

Results
A total of 2674 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and type 2 diabetic kidney disease (T2DKD) were included. The prevalence and mean duration of DR increased with elevation of ACR and decline in eGFR. Renal function was significantly reduced in patients with DR in the fifth year of life. Binary and ordinal logistic regression showed that each 1-year increase in DR duration was associated with a 19% risk increase in the development of DKD, 16% in the elevation of ACR, and 21% in the decline of renal function. MR estimates indicated that DR was causally associated with DKD development, with an odds ratio of 2.89.

Conclusions
DR and the duration of DR were independent risk factors for the development and progression of DKD. The short-term duration of DR may be associated with DKD development. DR had a statistically significant effect on DKD.
Reducing Error Rate in Property Tax Declaration Forms through Simplification and Highlighting Instructions
Authors: Sloboda Matúš , Šmeringaiová Monika , Pavlovský Patrik 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The paper is mixed-method research on reducing administrative burden and, more specifically, the learning costs of filling out a property tax declaration form. It presents the development process of a guidebook, which simplified the instructions and experimentally tested the effectiveness of the guidebook in lowering the error rate. Young Slovak adults (N=43) were divided into two groups; the treatment group worked with the guidebook, and the control group used the official instructions the Ministry of Finance provided. The guidebook aimed to decrease learning costs using behavioural support (simplification, highlighting, examples, and the like). The results suggest that the guidebook helps significantly decrease the number of errors compared to the complex instructions the Ministry of Finance provided. However, while the guidebook is very effective in reducing errors in simple tasks, it may not be sufficient help for more complex tasks such as mathematical calculations. Therefore, simplified instructions must go hand-in-hand with interventions such as pre-populating of forms.
Automated differential diagnostics of respiratory diseases using an electronic stethoscope
Authors: Arhypenko Diana , Panaskin Denis , Babko Dmytro 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Introduction: The outbreak of the coronavirus infection, which has escalated into a pandemic, has worsened the already unfavourable situation with respiratory system diseases in Ukraine. The burden on doctors has significantly increased, necessitating the exploration of simplified and expedited methods for conducting routine respiratory examinations. The research aims to describe a model for creating an automated differential diagnosis of respiratory noise using an electronic stethoscope, combining medical and clinical information about the types of respiratory noise characterizing the normal or pathological state of the respiratory system with a means of its information and technical processing.

Material and methods: The research methods were analysis of theoretical information about the types of respiratory noise, analysis of technical information for choosing an information technology tool for processing biological signals; synthesis of the results; modelling.

Results: The research resulted in a model of automated differential diagnosis based on the principle of auscultation, which includes the process of extracting the sound of air movement inside and outside the lungs and the classification of the extracted sounds. Automation of this process concerned only the classification of the extracted sounds since the principle of extraction itself was the same for both mechanical and automatic implementations.

Conclusions: The automatic classification process was intended to reduce the time of the procedure and reduce the influence of the human factor, eliminating the possibility of medical error. To implement the process, a deep machine learning method was used, the array of information for which was to be a created phonotheque of acoustic signals of the respiratory system, which would include all types of respiratory noise concerning normal or pathological processes in the body.
Analytical Hierarchy Method for Evaluating the Environmental Sustainability in the Context of Ecosystem Services Enhancing: A Case Study of the Biosphere Reserve, Ukraine
Authors: Rusyn Bohdan , Alokhina Olga , Korus Mykola , Ivchenko Daria , Pits Natalia 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The ability of natural systems to provide services is critical to the sustainability of the environment. The increasing environmental pressures necessitate the creation of conditions conducive to the preservation and sustainability of natural ecosystems. A review of similar studies reveals that when evaluating ecosystem services, more consideration should be given to evaluating ecosystem stability. The Ukrainian Biosphere Reserve was chosen as the study polygon due to its importance as a conservation area and the diversity of natural ecosystems. The Analytical Hierarchy Method, in this case, provides a very straightforward way to analyze such complicated systems. The first step is to identify and value the services offered by the Biosphere Reserve’s wetland, forest, and aquatic ecosystems. Then, four criteria (C1–C4) and impacts (P1–Pn) that directly affect the ecological sustainability of a certain ecosystem within each criterion were identified. The overall weight of each impact on specific ecosystem sustainability was computed and estimated to reach the main goal (G). The integrated ecological stability evaluation index (CEI) was then calculated using the overall weight values. Wetland and forest ecosystem indices were calculated to be 0.63 and 0.64, indicating that these systems are moderately stable. The stability index for aquatic ecosystems is 0.75, indicating that the system is ecologically stable. As a result, it is critical to focus on reducing negative factors affecting wetlands and forest ecosystems, such as sylvatization and/or recreational activities, to strengthen ecosystem stability and the ability to provide services.
Why is the Teleological Argument so Popular?
Authors: Hunt Marcus W. 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Why are teleological arguments based on biological phenomena so popular? My explanation is that teleological properties are presented in our experiences of biological phenomena. I contrast this with the view that the attribution of teleological properties to biological phenomena takes place at an intellective level – via inference, and as belief or similar propositional attitude. I suggest five ways in which the experiential view is the better explanation for the popularity of such teleological arguments. Experiential attributions are more easy, impactful, and implastic. The experiential view accommodates cases of conflicting attributions, and it makes sense of the readiness with which we follow such teleological arguments. I respond to objections and explain how my view builds on existing answers to this question found in the philosophical literature.
Sechs Ansatzpunkte für eine nachhaltige und sozialverträgliche grüne Transformation
Authors: Brandt Nicola , Grundke Robert , Krill Zeev 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Germany wants to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045, which requires a substantial acceleration in emission reduction. The OECD suggests six levers for a successful sustainability transformation. More comprehensive and coherent greenhouse gas pricing, involving a phase out of environmentally harmful subsidies would set better incentives to switch consumption, production and innovation to climate­friendlier products and technologies. Direct revenue refunds to households would avoid overburdening lower­income groups. Furthermore, there are a number of costly and poorly targeted subsidies for the deployment of renewables that can be reduced gradually. This would make room to offer more support for expediting development of green energy technologies and infrastructure. Workers in energy­intensive industries will need support to retrain and potentially move to other industries or places.
Recycling seltener Metalle: ein Weg zu resilienten grünen Lieferketten
Authors: Wolf André 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Green technologies, like electric motors, contain valuable rare metals. Recycling these would represent an important step towards a green circular economy. However, the development of supply chains for recycled metals faces difficulties such as a lack of technical standardisation, low collection rates of end-of-life products and low efficiency of recycling technologies. European policymakers must address these obstacles by a targeted approach, combining requirements on data transparency and supply chain cooperation with new support schemes to accelerate the upscaling of recycling capacities. An auction-based production premium for recyclers can help to overcome the funding gap in the early stages of capacity development.