Successful Practice Research Articles

Painless dentistry techniques for successful practice growth

Painless dentistry techniques for successful practice growth

Role of Digital Technologies in Promoting Gender Equality in Kazakhstan

The dynamics of digital technologies affect the economy and society, opening up new opportunities and prospects for promoting gender equality in the workplace. The aim of this paper is to explore the role of digital technologies in promoting gender equality, assess their impact on various aspects of women's lives, and identify the main challenges and prospects associated with their use. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, including secondary data analysis, surveys, and case studies, to assess the impact of digitalization on women's employment and professional development. Special attention is paid to comparing the results of countries in international rankings, which allows us to identify the most successful practices and general trends. Despite the measures taken by Kazakhstan to ensure gender equality in areas such as digitalization and the successes achieved, it is still being revealed that there are many inequalities in the labor market of Kazakhstan. Surveys conducted among 174 respondents (59.7% women) revealed that 55.7% believe digital technologies can reduce gender discrimination in the labor market, and 56.3% recognize the contribution of digital labor to gender equality. Findings suggest that digital platforms enhance women's participation in the labor market, offering flexible work arrangements and professional growth opportunities. However, barriers such as limited access to digital education and persistent gender stereotypes still hinder women's full participation in the digital economy. The paper concludes with recommendations for policymakers to develop gender-focused digital strategies to ensure equitable access to digital resources and opportunities.

Strategies and Barriers to Technological Innovation in the Hospitality Industry: A Qualitative Exploration

Innovation is a concept that plays a crucial role in the success of the hospitality industry and provides many positive organizational outcomes. The concept of technological innovation in the hospitality industry has attracted great attention, especially due to the widespread impact of emerging technologies on organizations. The purpose of this study is to identify technological innovation strategies and challenges to successful innovation practices in the hospitality industry. 17 hospitality professionals worldwide, selected through convenience sampling, constitute the participant profile of this study. The current study, based on a qualitative research design, used text analysis to identify patterns in the data set. QSR NVivo 10 software was used to identify major themes from the transcripts. As a result of the analysis, 4 technological innovation strategies were identified, namely setting strategic direction, culture of innovation, organizational alignment and collaboration and partnerships, and 4 challenges were identified, namely lack of understanding technology, data overload, failure to meet user needs and the speed of change, which pose obstacles to innovation in the hospitality industry. This study contributes to innovation research in the hospitality literature by providing an in-depth evaluation of technological innovation strategies and the challenges in this process and approaching the topic holistically.

A compliance and audit model for tackling tax evasion in Nigeria

Tax evasion remains a significant challenge for Nigeria, undermining economic stability and reducing public revenue. This paper proposes a comprehensive compliance and audit model designed to address tax evasion in Nigeria. The model integrates enhanced compliance strategies, advanced audit procedures, and the strategic use of technology to create a robust framework for tackling tax evasion. The proposed model emphasizes proactive measures to improve taxpayer compliance through targeted education and outreach programs, streamlined reporting processes, and incentivization. On the audit front, it advocates for the adoption of sophisticated audit techniques and technologies, including data analytics and automated systems, to detect and address evasion more effectively. The implementation framework outlines a phased approach involving key stakeholders such as the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), local tax authorities, and the private sector. By examining domestic and international case studies, the paper highlights successful practices and potential challenges, providing actionable insights for adapting these strategies to the Nigerian context. Evaluation metrics are proposed to assess the model’s effectiveness, with expected outcomes including improved tax revenue, enhanced compliance rates, and strengthened public trust in the tax system. The study concludes with recommendations for further research and policy adjustments to refine and expand the model's application. This approach aims to not only mitigate tax evasion but also contribute to a more transparent and equitable tax system in Nigeria.

Research on the Impact of Digital Financial Technology on the Business Model Transformation of Commercial Banks

This paper explores in depth the broad impact of digital financial technologies on the business models of commercial banks and analyzes in detail the transformation strategies that commercial banks should adopt in response to these changes. With the rapid development of cutting-edge technologies such as big data, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and blockchain, digital finance has become an irreversible trend in the financial industry, which has not only changed the way financial services are provided, but also reshaped the market competition pattern of commercial banks. This paper first expounds the impact of digital financial technology on the traditional business model of commercial banks, including the reduction of market entry threshold, the change of competition focus and the innovation of risk management model. Then, the paper focuses on the specific strategies of commercial bank business model transformation, including technological innovation, organizational structure optimization, process management improvement, talent training and introduction, and strengthening cooperation and win-win situation. Through the introduction of the actual case analysis, it shows the successful practice and lessons of commercial banks in the business model transformation. Finally, this paper concludes that the key to the successful transformation of commercial banks' business model lies in the deep integration of technology and business, as well as the ability to flexibly respond to market changes and customer needs. Only in this way can commercial banks remain competitive and achieve sustainable development in the era of digital finance.

Perceptions of scientific assessment effectiveness

The science-policy interface process known as ‘scientific assessment’ convenes large numbers of experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to deliberate and synthesise cross-disciplinary knowledge. Considering the increasingly frequent and widespread use of scientific assessments over the past 30 years, globally and in South Africa, it is surprising that few effectiveness evaluations have been undertaken. A case-study mixed methods approach was used to evaluate the perceived effectiveness of six scientific assessment cases – two global, two regional and two national. To measure perceptions, a Generic/Procedural framework was developed, consisting of thirteen indicators based on the science-policy ‘dimensions’ of Credibility, Relevance and Legitimacy (CRELE). The cases were perceived to have performed better than average with respect to Output quality, Procedural fairness, Use in decision-making, Trustworthiness and Iterativity, and below average for Coproduction, Capacity building, Media communications, Transdisciplinarity and Financial resources. Perceptions of effectiveness varied based on participant role, age, and country income levels, revealing both pluralistic viewpoints and the subjective nature of participant-led evaluations. While Relevance is often considered the keystone dimension of CRELE, the cases performed better for indicators foundational to Credibility and Legitimacy, rather than those foundational to Relevance. Future successful scientific assessment practice will require more conscious consideration of Relevance, coupled with innovative epistemic practices in the spirit of the Pragmatic-Enlightened Model (PEM) of science-policy interaction.

До питання відновлення України після війни з Росією

This research article is devoted to the topical issues of restoration and modernization of Ukraine in the post-war period, the study of strategies for the restoration and reconstruction of economic and social structures in the regions of Ukraine that have been devastated by the war with russia. The research is based on the analysis of the experience of other countries that have experienced similar challenges, as well as on the study of successful practices and possible failures in the implementation of recovery measures. The paper emphasizes the importance of cooperation between different levels of government, civic initiatives, and international support to achieve effective and sustainable results. The article aims to make a practical contribution to solving the problems of recovery after a military conflict and to expand the theoretical understanding of the impact of military conflicts on society and the economy. The article is aimed at solving a number of problems related to the restoration of Ukrainian regions after the military conflict with Russia. One of the key problems is the destruction of economic and social structures in these regions, which requires careful analysis and strategic planning for their effective recovery. An important challenge is also the need to identify optimal recovery strategies that take into account the unique requirements of each region and promote rapid and sustainable recovery. It is also a challenge to ensure cooperation between different levels of government, community initiatives and international partnerships to achieve synergies and maximize results. The study should also take into account the importance of rebuilding infrastructure, adapting society to the new conditions, and consider the socio-economic consequences of the conflict and their impact on regional development. This formulation of the problem allows for a deeper understanding of the complex challenges and the search for effective strategies for recovery from military conflict.

Advocating ‘eco-village’ for sustainable development: The dayalbagh way of life

<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 120%; layout-grid-mode: char; mso-layout-grid-align: none; punctuation-wrap: simple; margin: 12.0pt 0cm 6.0pt 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 120%; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; color: black; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-fareast-language: JA;">India as a country has its identity deeply rooted in its rural culture. Whether we talk about agriculture, tradition, food, art, or music, the rural society of India has always proven itself a representation towards the national front. The Dayalbagh society in Agra city of Uttar Pradesh (India) is engaged to strengthen the nation’s roots through education, technology, sustainability, management, innovation, research, and most importantly, selfless service. The major potential for economic growth in India lies in the development of its rural areas. This article is an attempt to spot the outlook of a society that has its inception for the past 100 years and is continuously making efforts to glorify the message of sustainable development, environmental protection, and rural development through its effective plans in designing an eco-village-based society. Based on the narrative description approach, this article highlights the efforts and strategies employed by the Dayalbagh society to promote sustainable development, environmental protection, and rural development. The focus is on how society integrates education, technology, sustainability, management, innovation, research, and selfless service to achieve these goals. The Dayalbagh society’s initiatives have taken into consideration economic, social, environmental, and human aspects, demonstrating significant contributions towards sustainable development and rural empowerment. The philosophy and successful practices of the Dayalbagh society can inspire and guide others in developing action plans for effective environmental protection and sustainable rural development. By adopting such approaches, other organizations, decision-makers, and individuals can contribute to the overall growth and well-being of rural areas in India.</span></p>

PROPOSING RESTORATIVE JUSTICE MODELS AS ALTERNATIVE APPROACHES TO ADDRESSING CRIMINAL MATTERS: A CASE STUDY OF JUDICIAL SYSTEMS IN CIVIL AND COMMON LAW COUNTRIES

Background: In recent years, restorative justice has emerged as a mechanism to enhance the involvement of victims in criminal proceedings. Its primary objective is to repair the damage caused by the offence, acknowledging it as a genuine injury in need of healing. While criminal proceedings might vary across jurisdictions based on fundamental principles of human rights, the broader aim is to offer a more comprehensive response to crime, aiming not only to punish but also to reform offenders and reduce future criminal behaviour. Methods: This qualitative study employed a descriptive, analytical method, utilising case studies and comparative analysis to explore restorative justice models in established judicial systems and their applicability to unestablished framework countries. By analysing and synchronising secondary materials, the research aimed to provide in-depth insights into successful practices and potential adaptations. Results and conclusions: The results reveal that several restorative justice models have been developed all over the world to align with the legal, socio-political, and cultural contexts of different regions and jurisdictions, such as Canada, New Zealand, and Norway. Despite the variety of restorative justice models, this exploratory study scrutinised four non-adversarial decision-making models: victim-offender mediation, community reparative boards, family group conferencing, and circle sentencing. These four models illustrate an alternative approach to community involvement in crime response, emphasising the diversity and shared themes of community engagement in sanctioning processes. The results offer resourceful guidelines for unestablished judicial systems like Vietnam to choose models best suited to specific needs.

Abstract C011: The Critical Role of Developmental Evaluation in Supporting and Enhancing an Equitable Transdisciplinary Approach to Address Cancer Disparities

Abstract Background: Complex problems such as cancer disparities require deeper integration of social and scientific problem-solving and a broader systems approach. Given the nature of disparities, it also demands that we not just seek equitable outcomes but collaborate in ways that reflect equity in the process. To address breast and lung cancer disparities, we developed a unique transdisciplinary approach that creates teams inclusive of community, clinicians, and researchers and builds capacity to understand at a deep level the factors that underpin disparities and design and implement newer sustainable solutions. Methods: This study focuses on a phase I planning period for a transdisciplinary process with five teams locally embedded where lung and breast cancer disparities are significant. A leadership team that included primary investigators from academic medicine and public health supported community-based facilitators and evaluators responsible for guiding local teams. Deep equity, considerations on the biology to policy spectrum, and systems thinking are grounding principles in our approach. At the end of phase I, an evaluator facilitated After-Action Reviews (AAR) to assess effectiveness in maintaining fidelity to the framework and to identify successful practices and areas for improvement. These data informed changes to our approach to implementation to further root our commitment to equity during implementation. Seven AAR sessions were conducted: individual teams members, facilitators and evaluators, and the leaderships team (n-=50). The evaluator triangulated the data from the different AARs and facilitated a discussion of the integrated findings to the expanded leadership team. Results: The AAR highlighted three primary themes for critical self-reflection including (1) strengthening the understanding and use of our approach, (2) reducing ambiguity while preserving slack (e.g. flexibility with resources) and creativity, and (3) integrating project’s partners intentionally into our wider transdisciplinary network. In examining these themes, we identified several strategies for improving our transdisciplinary approach during implementation and for wider replication of our framework with future integrated science-social problem solving. These areas included improved systems for 360-degree communication, clear expectations of roles, and additional support for transdisciplinary collaboration and application of grounded principles to better self-organize a transdisciplinary system within a wider less resilient system like academic medicine. Discussion: To successfully innovate socially and scientifically within complexities of cancer disparities, we need to push beyond conventional models of research and program intervention. This means incorporating methods across fields and sectors including evaluation. An After-Action Review is an effective evaluation tool for assessing a complex process with numerous contributors to ensure a stronger outcome including more refined and relevant research questions and sustainability program, policy and practice. Citation Format: Tobi Cawthra, Laura Pinsoneault, Jerica Broeckling, Kristen Gardner-Volle, Tim Meister, Kailey Taebel, Jada Proctor, Felicia Fairfield, Kelly Hackett, David Frazer, Staci Young, Melinda Stolley. The Critical Role of Developmental Evaluation in Supporting and Enhancing an Equitable Transdisciplinary Approach to Address Cancer Disparities [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr C011.

Training of Teachers for Cadet Classes: Approaches and Successful Practices

The article offers an analysis of approaches and successful practices of teacher training for cadet classes. Various groups of methods were used in the course of the study, including the method of comparative analysis of normative and legal documents; analysis, systematization and generalization of the data obtained; complex analysis, classification and structuring of information and statistical data; modeling method; generalization of research results. As a result, system solutions for the training of teachers of cadet classes have been developed and theoretically substantiated. It should be noted that one of the conceptual ideas of teacher training for cadet classes is the idea of continuity and individualization of professional development of teachers in the field of education and socialization of students. Continuous professional development of teachers, including teachers of cadet classes, is carried out through the integration of formal and non-formal education, as well as through self-education and self-education. Teachers of cadet classes should have the competencies necessary for the full implementation of professional functions in the organization of education and socialization of students, since the teacher of the cadet class works not only with students, but also with cadet families, focusing on issues of social protection, education, formation of healthy public opinion and mood. The tasks of the educator of the training course include studying the mood, requests and needs of child-parent relations in cadet families and systematically informing the management and specialists of various services about the urgent tasks of working with cadet parents. The training of teachers of cadet classes is focused on the formation of a number of skills among educators: to analyze the academic performance and involvement of students in the educational process, to build effective communication, to organize activities to prevent negative manifestations and offenses.

Психологическое сопровождение социокультурной адаптации иностранных студентов в системе высшего образования: итоги проектно-аналитической сессии

The paper analyzes the experience of psychological support for the socio-cultural adaptation of foreign students at universities of the Russian Federation. The relevance of the work is due to the significant socio-cultural, psychological, and academic difficulties that foreign students face when studying at Russian universities and, in this regard, the need to replicate the successful experience of organizing measures to adapt this target group of students in the higher education system. The results of a monitoring survey of psychological services specialists conducted at the sites of 13 universities participating in the pilot testing of the psychological service model in the higher education system in terms of psychological support for foreign students are presented. The results of the design and analytical session organized by the Federal Resource Center for Psychological Services in the Higher Education System of the Russian Academy of Education are presented in order to further replicate successful practices of psychological support for foreign students at the university. A comprehensive program of measures for psychological support of foreign students at the university is proposed. Conclusions are drawn about the expediency of integrating individual measures to accompany and support foreign students into the overall structure of the psychological service of the university.

Knowledge Management and the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR): A Recent Systematic Review

Concerning the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) era, associated with the rapid integration related to advanced technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), blockchain, and the IoT (Internet of Things) into society, effective Knowledge Management (KM) is crucial for organizations in this dynamic landscape. This systematic review explores the evolving relationship between KM and 4IR, addressing how organizations adapt their KM practices to leverage 4IR technologies and address associated challenges. Our review examines recent research in KM and 4IR, highlighting key themes, trends, and findings. Using a rigorous systematic review methodology, final primary data (n=28) published between 2021 and 2023 through advanced searches in Scopus and Econbiz databases were analyzed. The results reveal a dynamic landscape where organizations embrace 4IR technologies to enhance knowledge creation, storage, sharing, and application. The synthesis of existing research underscores the need for a strategic and adaptable KM approach in the 4IR era, emphasizing the critical roles of organizational culture, leadership, and technological infrastructure in shaping successful KM practices in this transformative context. This systematic review serves as a guide for scholars, professionals, and decision-makers, aiding them in navigating the complexities of 4IR and emphasizing the value of knowledge as a key resource in this evolving field.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices on Covid-19 Prevention of Vietnamese Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant global impact, and although it has been controlled at the moment, the possibility of a resurgence is remains high if appropriate preventive measures are taken. Da Nang was one of the largest cities where the epidemic broke out and spread intensively in Vietnam. Knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) towards COVID-19 play an important role in controlling and preventing the disease. Objectives: To evaluate the KAP toward COVID-19 prevention among patients who visit to Da Nang Hospital for examinations and identify some related factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 350 patients who visited the Department of Medical Examination of DaNang Hospital from November 2022 to April 2023. The questionnaire assessing knowledge, attitude, and practice of COVID-19 prevention of patients with 30 items was used and revised with the permission of the original author. Chi-square tests and odds ratios (ORs) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) were used to identify factors related to patient characteristics and knowledge, attitude, and practices of COVID-19 prevention. The results were considered statistically significant when p < 0.05. Results: The percentage of participants with good knowledge, positive attitude, and successful practice on COVID-19 prevention accounted for 86.6%, 89.1%, and 56.3% respectively. Factors related to knowledge include sex (OR=1.88, 95% CI: 0.99-3.52, p-value < 0.05), age, education level, and family economy; attitudes include education level, place of residence (OR=0.44, 95% CI: 0.20-0.84, p-value < 0.05), occupation; and COVID-19 infection status (OR=0.47, 95% CI: 0.23-0.95, p <0.05); and practices include sex (OR=0.57, 95% CI: 0.37-0.88, p-value <0.05), age, education level , place of residence (OR= 0.65, 95% CI: 0.42-0.95, p-value <0.05) and occupation . Conclusion: Research results showed that patients who visit to Da Nang Hospital for examinations have a high level of good knowledge and a positive attitude, while successful practices in COVID-19 prevention were not high. Thus, it is still necessary to promote and improve patients' knowledge about disease prevention vaccines, as well as enhance the practice of washing hands and covering mouths when coughing and sneezing for better disease prevention.

Historical Examination and Contemporary Conservation Challenges of the Architectural Decorations of Traditional Folk Houses of the Mulao People in the Hechi Region of China

In the southern regions of China, the Mulao ethnic group is regarded as one of the most ancient ethnic communities. This group possesses a long-standing history and a rich cultural heritage, making it a crucial component in the study of regional ethnic histories. It holds a significant place in the historical evolution of China's ethnic diversity. The traditional residential architecture of the Mulao people, along with its decorative elements, forms a vital part of the cultural heritage of the Mulao community. These structures serve not merely as places of residence but also as venues for cultural transmission and practice, reflecting the profound historical and cultural depth of the Mulao people. As carriers of history, these buildings document the culture, art, and spiritual qualities of the ethnic group, playing an indispensable role in the preservation and development of Mulao culture. This paper conducts an in-depth study of the historical evolution of traditional Mulao residential architectural decoration, aiming to explore its traditional features and modern innovations while, the dissertation examines the various challenges currently faced by conservation efforts. The study extensively compares the traditional features and modern innovations of Mulao residential architectural decoration, showcasing unique styles in form, color, and patterns. Through case analysis, successful preservation practices are identified, providing valuable experiences.This provides invaluable experience and profound insights for future cultural preservation efforts.This research contributes to a better understanding and respect for Mulao cultural heritage, offering substantial support for the continued preservation and evolution of Mulao traditional architectural decoration.

Japanese Cross-Cultural Management in Indian Business-to-Business Marketing Situations: A Study of Evolving Intra-Asian Differences in Cultural Values

ABSTRACT Purpose Extensive research has been conducted on cross-cultural comparisons between Eastern and Western organizational cultures in major trading domains. However, there is a lack of examination of intra-comparative management nuances within Asian regions. This research paper focuses on the under-explored topic of the values, beliefs, and attitudes (VBAs) that influence the outcomes of East Asian (e.g. Japan) marketing strategies and operations when implemented in South Asian (e.g. India) markets and organizational contexts. The study aims to analyze the impact of VBAs on marketing effectiveness and provide insights for marketers in cross-cultural settings. The article analyzes the customer satisfaction orientation (CSO) of Japanese business executives and draws insights that offer lessons related to cultural VBAs for overall marketing strategy and foreign investors. Methodology/approach The paper employs a social constructivist paradigm and gathers empirical research through multiple interviews. These facilitate novel and normally rare access and insights into Japanese business leaders’ lived experience of CSO in B2B Indian intercultural situations. Findings Interpretivist data analysis reveals several push-pull factors that influence CSO practice. The research identifies shared values such as long-termism and harmony that have the potential to boost CSO as a marketing strategy in India. Research implications The paper develops a conceptualization of cultural VBAs that lead to successful CSO practice in India and is of relevance to foreign investors. Practical implications This study suggests that East Asian marketers should carefully consider the impact of VBAs on their marketing strategies. Our research sheds light on the ongoing discussion on static versus evolving nature of culture and highlights the need to pay attention to cultural change, particularly congruence and confluence in workplace values. Originality The intercultural study contributes to the literature on international marketing strategy by highlighting the nature and importance of understanding traditional and evolving cultural VBAs for appreciating receptivity to adoption and thereby efficacy of home country marketing strategy.

Legal frameworks for sustainable tourism: balancing environmental conservation and economic development

ABSTRACT Tourism is a vital part of the global economy but often imposes significant environmental pressure, necessitating robust legal frameworks for sustainability. This study explores the role of environmental law in promoting sustainable tourism, motivated by the need to assess the effectiveness of existing regulations. It hypothesises that while numerous international and national laws exist to mitigate tourism's environmental impacts, their effectiveness is often hindered by enforcement challenges and socio-economic factors. Using a mixed-methods approach, including a literature review and case studies, the research highlights the dual nature of tourism’s impact, showing economic benefits alongside environmental costs. Case studies from Egypt, UAE, and KSA illustrate successful sustainable practices when strong legal frameworks and community involvement are present. The study concludes that a combination of regulatory measures, economic incentives, and public-private partnerships is crucial for sustainable tourism, recommending enhanced enforcement and global cooperation.

Adapting EFL materials and its influences on Indonesia secondary school students’ language learning

Educators encounter challenges in performing materials adaptation stemming from time limitations, institutional responsibilities, administrative demands, and a dearth of formal training in materials development resulting in improper adaptation and ineffective learning activities. This research investigated the process of adapting materials as a qualitative case study. The data were gathered from a senior high school teacher in Banda Aceh, Indonesia, by means of document analysis (e.g., teaching materials), observation, and interview. The results revealed that the instructor frequently added and modified educational resources to facilitate learning through several modalities. The act of deleting, simplifying, and rearranging was occasionally performed. Nevertheless, students’ reflection on course contents, inadequate level of difficulty, demanding tasks, and excessive reliance on first language remained as issues. This study emphasizes the role of adaptation in promoting meaningful learning experiences and urges the integration of culturally relevant themes with a variety of learning activities. Educators can use these findings to support professional developments focused on effective material adaption tactics, allowing them to reflect on their existing methods, try new approaches, and interact with colleagues to share successful practices.

Effectiveness of XP-Endo Finisher, Endoactivator, and PUI agitation in the penetration of intracanal medicaments into dentinal tubules: A confocal laser scanning microscope analysis.

This investigation assessed the impact of irrigation activation systems on the depth of penetration of intracanal medicaments into dentinal tubules. Ninety-six mandibular premolar teeth were prepared using ProTaper Next up to size X3. The teeth were randomly divided into four groups based on the final irrigation activation systems (n=24): group 1: EndoActivator, group 2: XP-Endo Finisher, group 3: Passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI), and group 4: control. After the final irrigation, all the samples were divided into two subgroups (n=12): subgroup A: calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2 ) and subgroup B: modified triple antibiotic paste (mTAP). Statistical analysis involved three-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). EndoActivator, XP-Endo Finisher, and PUI activation methods significantly increased the penetration of intracanal medicaments compared to conventional needle irrigation (P<0.05). The XP-Endo Finisher group exhibited the highest penetration percentage and maximum penetration depth, showing a statistically significant difference from the EndoActivator group (P<0.001). No significant difference was observed between XP-Endo Finisher and PUI, nor between PUI and EndoActivator (P>0.05). mTAP showed a higher percentage of dentinal tubule penetration than Ca(OH)2, although no significant difference was found in maximum penetration depth. The coronal region demonstrated the highest penetration percentage and depth, while the apical region showed the lowest. This study showed the effectiveness of XP-Endo Finisher in improving the penetration of intracanal medicaments into dentinal tubules. The findings emphasize the importance of selecting appropriate irrigation activation systems to improve treatment outcomes in endodontics. By demonstrating the effectiveness of advanced systems like XP-Endo Finisher, this research supports their integration into routine clinical practice for better endodontic success.

Community-led vs. subsidised housing. Lessons from informal settlements in Durban

Rapid urbanization, poverty and socio-economic inequalities are causes of the backlog of informal settlements in South Africa, as dwellers cannot access formal housing schemes. Such unplanned settlements often need more basic services, social facilities and adequate housing. Nevertheless, informal settlements are core parts of the urban form rather than places for eradication. This article examines self-building and community-led upgrading practices in three case studies of partially and non-serviced informal settlements in Durban. It adopts action research participatory methods to coproduce knowledge and map various perspectives around community-led housing upgrading, building materials and construction skills in an effort to enhance community resilience and self-reliance. The findings reveal the key drivers and challenges associated with self-building, informal procurement and overall project management of the housing process. Successful grassroots practices demonstrate community ownership and dweller control beyond the physical upgrading per se. The lessons learned call for inclusive, participatory, and incremental approaches for effective community organization, self-reliance, social capital and livelihood development.