bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A field test of computer-vision-based gaze estimation in psychology
Authors: Valtakari Niilo V. , Hessels Roy S. , Niehorster Diederick C. , Viktorsson Charlotte , Nyström Pär , Falck-Ytter Terje , Kemner Chantal , Hooge Ignace T. C.
Published: April 2023

Computer-vision-based gaze estimation refers to techniques that estimate gaze direction directly from video recordings of the eyes or face without the need for an eye tracker. Although many such methods exist, their validation is often found in the technical literature (e.g., computer science conference papers). We aimed to (1) identify which computer-vision-based gaze estimation methods are usable by the average researcher in fields such as psychology or education, and (2) evaluate these methods. We searched for methods that do not require calibration and have clear documentation. Two toolkits, OpenFace and OpenGaze, were found to fulfill these criteria. First, we present an experiment where adult participants fixated on nine stimulus points on a computer screen. We filmed their face with a camera and processed the recorded videos with OpenFace and OpenGaze. We conclude that OpenGaze is accurate and precise enough to be used in screen-based experiments with stimuli separated by at least 11 degrees of gaze angle. OpenFace was not sufficiently accurate for such situations but can potentially be used in sparser environments. We then examined whether OpenFace could be used with horizontally separated stimuli in a sparse environment with infant participants. We compared dwell measures based on OpenFace estimates to the same measures based on manual coding. We conclude that OpenFace gaze estimates may potentially be used with measures such as relative total dwell time to sparse, horizontally separated areas of interest, but should not be used to draw conclusions about measures such as dwell duration.
Transition Metal Oxides as the Electrode Material for Sodium-Ion Capacitors
Authors: Gupta Yamini , Siwatch Poonam , Karwasra Reetika , Sharma Kriti , Tripathi S.K.
Published: April 2023

The research of energy-storage systems has been encouraged in the last ten years by the rapid development of portable electronic gadgets. Hybrid-ion capacitors are a novel kind of capacitor-battery hybrid energy storage device that has earned a lot of interest because of their high power density while maintaining energy density and a long lifecycle. Mostly, lithium-based energy storage technology is now being studied for use in electric grid storage. But the price increment and intermittent availability of lithium reserves make lithium-based commercialization unstable. Therefore, sodium-based technologies have been proposed as potential substitutes for lithium-based technologies. Sodium-ion capacitors (SICs) are acknowledged as potential innovative energy storage technologies which have lower standard electrode potentials and lower costs than lithium-ion capacitors. However, the large radius of the sodium ion also contributes to unfavorable reaction kinetics, low energy density, and brief lifespan of SICs. Recently, transition metal oxide (TMO)-based candidates have been considered potential due to the large theoretical capacity, environmental friendliness, and low cost for SICs. This brief study summarizes current advancements in research of TMOs and sodium-based TMOs as electrode candidates for SIC applications. Also, we have covered in detail the state of the exploration and upcoming prospects of TMOs for SICs.
USO DE DIFERENTES DOSES DE GEL HIDROFÍLICO DE TINGUI EM SUBSTRATO NA PRODUÇÃO DE MUDAS DE SCHIZOLOBIUM PARAHYBA VAR. AMAZONICUM (HUBER EX DUCKE) BARNEBY
Authors: Souza Flávia Bezerra , Silva Renata Carvalho Da , Sousa Hygor Gomes de Almeida , Aguiar Bruno Aurélio Campos , Lopes Valéria Cardoso , Veloso Amanda Carine Bispo , Dantas Heloisa Araújo , Emigodio João Pedro Felipe , Alvarez Sergisclei Ferreira , Souza Priscila Bezerra de
Published: April 2023

Introdução: A demanda por produtos florestais está expandindo cada vez mais no Brasil e, para atendê-la, faz-se necessária a implantação de novos plantios, seja de espécies exóticas ou nativas. Desta forma, ao se levar em consideração a instalação de povoamentos florestais, um dos fatores a serem priorizados é o substrato com boa retenção de água e porosidade, pois só assim diminuiria custos com nutrientes e irrigação. Objetivo: Sendo assim, objetivou-se avaliar a viabilidade de diferentes doses do gel hidrofílico natural formado a partir do tegumento de Magonia pubescens St. Hil. (tingui) aplicados em substrato, no crescimento e desenvolvimento de mudas de Schizolobium parahyba var. amazonicum (Huber ex Ducke) Barneby (paricá). Material e Métodos: Os parâmetros avaliados foram altura da planta, diâmetro do coleto, número de folhas, massa seca da parte aérea, massa seca da raiz, massa seca total e índice de qualidade de Dickson. Os diferentes tratamentos geraram respostas distintas e, no geral, influenciaram positivamente no crescimento e a qualidade das mudas. Resultados: O tratamento 4 constituído de 4g/l-1 do substrato comercial Tropstrato Florestal® foi a dosagem que indicou maior média de diâmetro, altura, massa seca da parte aérea, massa seca da raiz, massa seca total e índice de qualidade de Dickson aos 60 dias. Conclusão: Conclui - se que a incorporação do hidrogel natural de tingui influenciou expressivamente o crescimento e o padrão de qualidade das mudas de Schizolobium parahyba var. amazonicum (Huber ex Ducke) Barneby (Paricá), demostrando ser uma alternativa promissora e eficiente para a produção de mudas dessa espécie florestal.
A FEIRA DO PRODUTOR E SUA INFLUENCIA SOBRE A PAISAGEM DA VÁRZEA AMAZÔNICA: EXPERIÊNCIA PRODUTIVA DAS COMUNIDADES RIBEIRINHAS DO FURO CACHOEIRA NO ESTADO DO PARÁ
Authors: Silva Elisane Pereira Da , Silva Ricardo Gilson Da Costa
Published: April 2023

O presente artigo tem como objetivo analisar a transformação da paisagem das comunidades ribeirinhas do Furo Cachoeiry, a partir da construção da feira do produtor, no ano de 2008 até 2018. Ressalto ainda a função social que a agricultura familiar desempenha frente a importância desta atividade produtiva, pois é geradora de renda em nível local. A agricultura familiar fomenta o emprego do contingente de mão-de-obra ociosa e também comercializa os produtos agropecuários tanto de maneira complexa (mercado, quitandas e outros intermediários) como de maneira direta (na propriedade rural ou em feiras), que gera e faz circular a renda em nível local, muito importante no âmbito do desenvolvimento sustentável. A feira livre representa um importante canal de comercialização interna dos produtos da agricultura familiar, motivo que torna esta, objeto de estudo deste trabalho. Desse modo, enfatizo a partir do estudo de caso da feira do produtor rural da cidade de Oriximiná-Pá, Feira do Produtor Rural Luiz Allágio de Souza, da fundação (2008) até o ano de 2018 e como está estrutura física influência na paisagem das comunidades ribeirinhas do Furo Cachoery.
A Heating Mechanism via Magnetic Pumping in the Intracluster Medium
Authors: Ley Francisco , Zweibel Ellen G. , Riquelme Mario , Sironi Lorenzo , Miller Drake , Tran Aaron
Published: April 2023

Turbulence driven by active galactic nuclei activity, cluster mergers, and galaxy motion constitutes an attractive energy source for heating the intracluster medium (ICM). How this energy dissipates into the ICM plasma remains unclear, given its low collisionality and high magnetization (precluding viscous heating by Coulomb processes). Kunz et al. proposed a viable heating mechanism based on the anisotropy of the plasma pressure under ICM conditions. The present paper builds upon that work and shows that particles can be heated by large-scale turbulent fluctuations via magnetic pumping. We study how the anisotropy evolves under a range of forcing frequencies, what waves and instabilities are generated, and demonstrate that the particle distribution function acquires a high-energy tail. For this, we perform particle-in-cell simulations where we periodically vary the mean magnetic field
B
(t). When
B
(t) grows (dwindles), a pressure anisotropy P
⊥ > P
∥(P
⊥ < P
∥) builds up (P
⊥ and P
∥ are, respectively, the pressures perpendicular and parallel to
B
(t)). These pressure anisotropies excite mirror (P
⊥ > P
∥) and oblique firehose (P
∥ > P
⊥) instabilities, which trap and scatter the particles, limiting the anisotropy, and providing a channel to heat the plasma. The efficiency of this mechanism depends on the frequency of the large-scale turbulent fluctuations and the efficiency of the scattering the instabilities provide in their nonlinear stage. We provide a simplified analytical heating model that captures the phenomenology involved. Our results show that this process can be relevant in dissipating and distributing turbulent energy at kinetic scales in the ICM.
The GMRT High Resolution Southern Sky Survey for Pulsars and Transients. V. Localization of Two Millisecond Pulsars
Authors: Sharma Shyam S. , Roy Jayanta , Kudale Sanjay , Bhattacharyya Bhaswati , Behera Arpit K. , Singh Shubham
Published: April 2023

The timing follow-up of newly discovered millisecond pulsars (MSPs) is hindered by the larger positional uncertainty (a few tens of arcminutes) associated with the discovery. In this paper, we present the localization of two MSPs, discovered by the GMRT High Resolution Southern Sky survey, up to arcsecond accuracy using a 33 MHz offline coherently dedispersed gated correlator. This gated correlator is an upgraded version of the earlier 16 MHz design. This new development with a factor of 2 enhancement in the observing bandwidth offers better sensitivity in the image domain, leading to more precise localization. Aided by the precise position, we followed up these two MSPs with sensitive phased-array (PA) beams of upgraded GMRT from 300 to 1460 MHz. More sensitive observations in the PA mode for these two MSPs yield precise (∼sub-μs) time-of-arrivals, with dispersion measure uncertainties in the range of 10−4–10−5 pc cm−3. We also report the profile evolution of the two MSPs over 300–1460 MHz. Finally, we discuss the suitability of these MSPs for the pulsar timing array experiments aimed to detect low-frequency gravitational waves.
The Formation of Hard Very High Energy Spectra from Gamma-ray Burst Afterglows via Two-zone Synchrotron Self-Compton Emission
Authors: Khangulyan Dmitry , Taylor Andrew M. , Aharonian Felix
Published: April 2023

Electron Compton scattering of target photons into the gamma-ray energy band (inverse Compton scattering; IC) is commonly expected to dominate the very high energy (VHE) spectra in gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) especially during the afterglow phase. For sufficiently large center-of-mass energies in these collisions, the effect of the electron recoil starts reducing the scattering cross-section (the Klein–Nishina regime). The IC spectra generated in the Klein–Nishina regime is softer and has a smaller flux level compared to the synchrotron spectra produced by the same electrons. The detection of afterglow emission from nearby GRB190829A in the VHE domain with H.E.S.S. has revealed an unexpected feature: the slope of the VHE spectrum matches well the slope of the X-ray spectra, despite expectations that, for the IC production process, the impact of the Klein–Nishina effect should be strong. The multi-wavelength spectral energy distribution appears to be inconsistent with predictions of one-zone synchrotron–self-Compton models. We study the possible impact of two-zone configuration on the properties of IC emission when the magnetic field strength differs considerably between the two zones. Synchrotron photons from the strong magnetic field zone provide the dominant target for cooling of the electrons in the weak magnetic field zone, which results in a formation of hard electron distribution and consequently of a hard IC emission. We show that the two-zone model can provide a good description of the Swift's X-ray Telescope and VHE H.E.S.S. data.
CHIME/FRB Discovery of 25 Repeating Fast Radio Burst Sources
Authors: The CHIME/FRB Collaboration  , Andersen Bridget C. , Bandura Kevin , Bhardwaj Mohit , Boyle P. J. , Brar Charanjot , Cassanelli Tomas , Chatterjee S. , Chawla Pragya , Cook Amanda M. , Curtin Alice P. , Dobbs Matt , Dong Fengqiu Adam , Faber Jakob T. , Fandino Mateus , Fonseca Emmanuel , Gaensler B. M. , Giri Utkarsh , Herrera-Martin Antonio , Hill Alex S. , Ibik Adaeze , Josephy Alexander , Kaczmarek Jane F. , Kader Zarif , Kaspi Victoria , Landecker T. L. , Lanman Adam E. , Lazda Mattias , Leung Calvin , Lin Hsiu-Hsien , Masui Kiyoshi W. , Mckinven Ryan , Mena-Parra Juan , Meyers Bradley W. , Michilli D. , Ng Cherry , Pandhi Ayush , Pearlman Aaron B. , Pen Ue-Li , Petroff Emily , Pleunis Ziggy , Rafiei-Ravandi Masoud , Rahman Mubdi , Ransom Scott M. , Renard Andre , Sand Ketan R. , Sanghavi Pranav , Scholz Paul , Shah Vishwangi , Shin Kaitlyn , Siegel Seth , Smith Kendrick , Stairs Ingrid , Su Jianing , Tendulkar Shriharsh P. , Vanderlinde Keith , Wang Haochen , Wulf Dallas , Zwaniga Andrew
Published: April 2023

We present the discovery of 25 new repeating fast radio burst (FRB) sources found among CHIME/FRB events detected between 2019 September 30 and 2021 May 1. The sources were found using a new clustering algorithm that looks for multiple events colocated on the sky having similar dispersion measures (DMs). The new repeaters have DMs ranging from ∼220 to ∼1700 pc cm−3, and include sources having exhibited as few as two bursts to as many as twelve. We report a statistically significant difference in both the DM and extragalactic DM (eDM) distributions between repeating and apparently nonrepeating sources, with repeaters having a lower mean DM and eDM, and we discuss the implications. We find no clear bimodality between the repetition rates of repeaters and upper limits on repetition from apparently nonrepeating sources after correcting for sensitivity and exposure effects, although some active repeating sources stand out as anomalous. We measure the repeater fraction over time and find that it tends to an equilibrium of

2.6

−
2.6

+
2.9

% over our total time-on-sky thus far. We also report on 14 more sources, which are promising repeating FRB candidates and which merit follow-up observations for confirmation.
Estimating the Evolution of Sparks in the Partially Screened Gap of Pulsars from Subpulse Drifting
Authors: Basu Rahul , Mitra Dipanjan , Melikidze George I.
Published: April 2023

A novel scheme has been developed to show that the observed phase behavior associated with subpulse drifting from two pulsars, J1034−3224 and J1720−2933, can be used to obtain the magnetic field configuration in the partially screened gap (PSG). The outflowing plasma along the open magnetic field line region of pulsars is generated as a result of spark discharges in an inner acceleration region (IAR) above the polar cap. The IAR has been modeled as a PSG with a steady supply of positively charged ions emitted from the heated polar cap surface dominated by strong non-dipolar magnetic fields. In a PSG the sparks are tightly packed and constrained to be present along the polar cap boundary. The sparks lag behind the rotation of the star during their lifetimes. As a result, the sparking pattern evolves along two different directions in a clockwise and counterclockwise manner around a stationary central spark and can be associated with the observed phenomenon of subpulse drifting. PSR J1034−3224 has four prominent components and exhibits bi-drifting where alternate components show the opposite sense of drifting, while PSR J1720−2933 has a single component profile and shows systematically coherent drift bands. We show that the differences in their drifting behavior can be directly linked to different natures of the non-dipolar surface magnetic field configurations.
On the Anticorrelation between Duration and Redshift in Gamma-Ray Bursts
Authors: Lloyd-Ronning Nicole , Johnson Jarrett , Cheng Roseanne M. , Luu Ken , Sanderbeck Phoebe Upton , Kenoly Lailani , Toral Celia
Published: April 2023

For gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) with durations greater than two seconds (so-called long GRBs), the intrinsic prompt gamma-ray emission appears, on average, to last longer for bursts at lower redshifts. We explore the nature of this duration–redshift anticorrelation, describing systems and conditions in which this cosmological evolution could arise. In particular, we explore its dependence on the metallicity of a massive star progenitor, because we can securely count on the average stellar metallicity to increase with decreasing redshift. Although stars with higher metallicity/lower redshift lose mass and angular momentum through line-driven winds, in some cases these stars are able to form more extended accretion disks when they collapse, potentially leading to longer-duration GRBs. We also examine how this duration–redshift trend may show up in interacting binary models composed of a massive star and compact object companion, recently suggested to be the progenitors of radio-bright GRBs. Under certain conditions, mass loss and equation-of-state effects from massive stars with higher metallicity and lower redshift can decrease the binary separation. This can then lead to spin-up of the massive star and allow for a longer-duration GRB upon the massive star’s collapse. Finally, the duration–redshift trend may also be supported by a relatively larger population of small-separation binaries born in situ at low redshift.
L’enfance, les enfants et le cinéma
Authors: Vignaux Valérie , Taïbi Nadia
Published: April 2023

Le cinéma, avec ces nouveaux outils que sont nos smartphones, nos « téléphones intelligents », est en train de se réinventer, or cette réinvention n’est pas sans relation avec les formes et les usages développés dès les années 1920, avec le Pathé Baby. Cet entretien revient sur cette évolution en plaçant au centre la question de l’enfance et des enfants au cinéma.
Reduced-order modeling using the frequency-domain method for parabolic partial differential equations
Authors: Seo Jeong-Kweon , Shin Byeong-Chun
Published: April 2023

This paper suggests reduced-order modeling using the Galerkin proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) to find approximate solutions for parabolic partial differential equations. We first transform a parabolic partial differential equation to the frequency-dependent elliptic equations using the Fourier integral transform in time. Such a frequency-domain method enables efficiently implementing a parallel computation to approximate the solutions because the frequency-variable elliptic equations have independent frequencies. Then, we introduce reduced-order modeling to determine approximate solutions of the frequency-variable elliptic equations quickly. A set of snapshots consists of the finite element solutions of the frequency-variable elliptic equations with some selected frequencies. The solutions are approximated using the general basis of the high-dimensional finite element space in a Hilbert space. reduced-order modeling employs the Galerkin POD for the snapshot subspace spanned by a set of snapshots. An orthonormal basis for the snapshot space can be easily computed using the spectral decomposition of the correlation matrix of the snapshots. Additionally, using an appropriate low-order basis of the snapshot space allows approximating the solutions of the frequency-variable elliptic equations quickly, where the approximate solutions are used for the inverse Fourier transforms to determine the approximated solutions in the time variable. Several numerical tests based on the finite element method are presented to asses the efficient performances of the suggested approaches.
Global weak solutions of nonlinear rotation-Camassa-Holm model
Authors: Dou Zheng , Luo Kexin
Published: April 2023

A nonlinear rotation-Camassa-Holm equation, physically depicting the motion of equatorial water waves and having the Coriolis effect, is investigated. Using the viscous approximation tool, we obtain an upper bound estimate about the space derivative of the viscous solution and a high order integrable estimate about the time-space variables. Utilizing these two estimates, we prove that there exist $ H^1(\mathbb{R}) $ global weak solutions to the rotation-Camassa-Holm model.
Riqueza de mamíferos no voladores en un remanente de bosque andino en Soacha (Cundinamarca, Colombia)
Authors: Díaz-S‍ Vanessa , Mahecha-J‍ Oscar , Bolívar‍ Laura , Vásquez-A Estephania , Gómez Sandra
Published: April 2023

La región andina de Colombia alberga la mayor parte de la población humana en el país, lo que conlleva a que se genere un gran impacto ambiental en los distintos biomas de montaña, provocado por diversas actividades antrópicas, tales como: la construcción de infraestructura para redes electicas, vías e hidroeléctricas, la minería, entre otras. Esto puede ocasionar la disminución y pérdida de especies, como es el caso de los mamíferos, los cuales presentan un rol ecológico valioso, puesto que cumplen diversas funciones en el mantenimiento de las redes tróficas y el equilibrio del hábitat, además de prestar diversos servicios ecosistémicos. Por tal razón, los mamíferos son usados como bioindicadores debido a la alta sensibilidad a los cambios en la estructura del paisaje, lo que provoca cambios en los patrones de diversidad, por lo que son idóneos para elaborar iniciativas de conservación. No obstante, aún es desconocida la composición de especies de mamíferos en diferentes áreas geográficas del país, en especial las áreas que están cerca de las grandes ciudades como Bogotá. El presente estudio pretende contribuir al conocimiento de la riqueza de mamíferos no voladores en un bosque andino en Soacha, Cundinamarca. Se realizaron muestreos desde abril-2015 a enero-2016, empleando métodos estandarizados como recorridos diurnos y nocturnos, cámaras trampa, trampas Sherman y Tomahawk. Se reporta una riqueza total de 18 especies, destacando especies como Choloepus hoffmanni, Cryptotis thomasi, Aoutus lemurinus, Nasua nasua, Nasuella olivacea, Cuniculus taczanowskii, y Mustela frenata. Pese a ser un bosque periurbano aledaño a la ciudad de Bogotá, en el área de estudio se evidenció la presencia de especies de mamíferos no voladores emblemáticos y endémicos de los biomas de montaña para el país, como es el caso del mico nocturno A. lemurinus, lo que permitió inferir el buen estado de conservación del bosque andino en el área de estudio, sugiriendo la importancia de esta zona, como un punto geográfico importante para mantener la conectividad con otros remanentes de bosque andino presentes en la región.
Emotional Intelligence in the School Context: The Case of Greece for Teachers’ Attitudes and the Role of Mobiles and ICTs
Authors: Papoutsi Chara , Drigas Athanasios , Skianis Charalabos , Pappas Marios
Published: April 2023

The purpose of this study was to examine teachers’ attitudes and perceptions regarding the integration and development of Emotional Intelligence (ΕΙ) in preschool, primary, and secondary teaching levels within the school context. ΕΙ is a gateway to a balanced life. It is a major factor for a healthy development of interpersonal relationships, whether we are referring to relationships in personal or professional life. Because of its importance, teachers should be informed and trained how to develop their ΕΙ and how to cultivate and strengthen their students’ ΕΙ. In this study is presented an online questionnaire which was designed in order to assess teachers’ attitudes and perceptions regarding El development in Greek schools. Psychometric evaluation on data from 242 teachers indicates that the proposed scale is valid and reliable.
Improving Opportunities in Supply Chain Processes Using the Internet of Things and Blockchain Technology
Authors: Samar Raza Talpur  , Alhamzah F. Abbas  , Nohman Khan  , Sobia Irum  , Javed Ali
Published: April 2023

The present study looks at how the internet of things and blockchain technology might be used to improve prospects in supply chain procedures. The current pandemic has highlighted the significance of resilient and dependable supply chain systems that are less dependent on humans and more efficient in cycling goods supply chains. The present study included and excluded records from two recognised databases, Scopus and Web of Science, using the PRISMA declaration 2020. After following the inclusion and exclusion criteria details, investigated the forty-seven articles with two significant data streams (traceability of supply chain management, resin and sustainability). Results illustrated that in today's environment, the rivalry has shifted from "firm vs firm" to "supply chain vs supply chain." As a result, the ability to optimise the supply chain has arisen as a significant issue for organisations seeking a competitive advantage. However, it has become increasingly challenging to traceability of products and merchandise while they are moving through the value chain network. The Internet of Things (IoT) applications and blockchain technologies can help companies observe, track, and monitor products, activities, privacy, security and processes within their respective value chain networks. Other applications of IoT include product monitoring to optimise operations in warehousing, manufacturing, food supply chain and transportation. Combined with IoT, Blockchain technology can enable various application scenarios to enhance supply-chain transparency and trust. When combined, IoT and Blockchain technology can increase the effectiveness and efficiency of modern supply chains. First, we illustrate how deploying Blockchain technology in combination with IoT infrastructure can streamline and benefit modern supply chains and enhance value chain networks. Second, we also identified that the resilience of big data analytics, machine learning and artificial intelligence is helpful for the sustainable development of social, economic and environmental contexts.
Recombinant Bacillus Calmette–Guérin Expressing SARS-CoV-2 Chimeric Protein Protects K18-hACE2 Mice against Viral Challenge
Authors: Mambelli Fábio , Marinho Fábio V , Andrade Juvana M , de Araujo Ana C V S C , Abuna Rodrigo P F , Fabri Victor M R , Santos Bruno P O , da Silva João S , de Magalhães Mariana T Q , Homan E Jane , Leite Luciana C C , Dias Greicy B M , Heck Nicoli , Mendes Daniel A G B , Mansur Daniel S , Báfica André , Oliveira Sergio C
Published: April 2023

COVID-19 has accounted for more than 6 million deaths worldwide. Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG), the existing tuberculosis vaccine, is known to induce heterologous effects over other infections due to trained immunity and has been proposed to be a potential strategy against SARS-CoV-2 infection. In this report, we constructed a recombinant BCG (rBCG) expressing domains of the SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid and spike proteins (termed rBCG-ChD6), recognized as major candidates for vaccine development. We investigated whether rBCG-ChD6 immunization followed by a boost with the recombinant nucleocapsid and spike chimera (rChimera), together with alum, provided protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection in K18-hACE2 mice. A single dose of rBCG-ChD6 boosted with rChimera associated with alum elicited the highest anti-Chimera total IgG and IgG2c Ab titers with neutralizing activity against SARS-CoV-2 Wuhan strain when compared with control groups. Importantly, following SARS-CoV-2 challenge, this vaccination regimen induced IFN-γ and IL-6 production in spleen cells and reduced viral load in the lungs. In addition, no viable virus was detected in mice immunized with rBCG-ChD6 boosted with rChimera, which was associated with decreased lung pathology when compared with BCG WT-rChimera/alum or rChimera/alum control groups. Overall, our study demonstrates the potential of a prime-boost immunization system based on an rBCG expressing a chimeric protein derived from SARS-CoV-2 to protect mice against viral challenge.
New floristic data of vascular plants from central Italy
Authors: Conti Fabio , Falcinelli Francesco , Giacanelli Valeria , Santucci Bruno , Miglio Marinella , Manzi Aurelio , Bartolucci Fabrizio
Published: April 2023

Based on field, herbarium and bibliographic research, we report distributional data for 21 species and subspecies (11 natives included 1 regional alien and 1 cryptogenic, 10 aliens) whose presence has been ascertained for some administrative regions of central Italy. In particular, 10 taxa are new or confirmed to Abruzzo, 7 to Umbria, 2 to Lazio, and 1 to Marche. Some taxa are particularly interesting from a phytogeographical or conservational point of view. Specifically, Astragalus exscapus and Salix pentandra are very rare in Italy. The new findings of Erythronium dens-canis and Thesium alpinum, in Umbria and Lazio respectively, represent the southernmost limits of their Italian distribution.
Histopathologic and immunohistochemical findings of odontogenic jaw cysts treated by decompression technique
Authors: Mustansir-Ul-Hassnain Syed , Chandavarkar Vidyadevi , Mishra Mithilesh Narayan , Patil Pavan Manohar , Bhargava Deepak , Sharma Ritika
Published: April 2023

Context:

Odontogenic cysts are among the most common lesions to affect the oral and maxillofacial region. Cysts are capable of causing significant bony disfigurement, tooth displacement and pathological fractures. Several surgical approaches exist for the management of larger cysts of the jaws. These include enucleation, marsupialization and decompression.

Aims:

1. Analysis of histopathologic findings in odontogenic cysts before and after decompression

2. Analysis of Ki-67 expression in odontogenic jaw cysts before and after decompression.

Settings and Design:

Decompression technique was used for the treatment of 10 cases of odontogenic cysts in the study. Incisional biopsies of cystic lining (pretreatment) and corresponding excisional biopsies (posttreatment) were received for histopathologic and immunohistochemical examination.

Subjects and Methods:

Hematoxylin and eosin stain was used for histopathologic findings, and Ki-67 was used for immunohistochemical findings using antibody Ki-67 in fresh tissue samples.

Results:

Overall, radicular cysts, dentigerous cysts, and sialo-odontogenic cyst contained fewer Ki-67 + cells than odontogenic keratocysts. The average scores were found to be 2.2 and 1 for before and after decompression, respectively. A statistically significant difference was observed between the two groups. The two-tailed P value was found to be <0.0001. The confidence interval was found to be 95%.

Conclusions:

The proliferative activity evaluated by Ki-67 marker was greater in predecompression epithelial lining compared to postdecompression. Our study infers that proliferative rate of the cystic epithelial lining is significantly diminished after decompression.
Erosive oral lichen planus inflicts higher cellular stress than reticular type
Authors: Jana Abhishek , Thomas Jincy , Ghosh Pratiti
Published: April 2023

Background:

Lichen planus is a chronic inflammatory mucocutaneous disease which frequently involves the oral mucosa. The most common types of oral lichen planus (OLP) are reticular (asymptomatic) and erosive (ulcerative) with malignant potentiality. The aims of the present study are to assess the cellular stress level in both types of OLP lesions with respect to oxidative stress, DNA damage and inflammation.

Materials and Methods:

Freshly diagnosed untreated 25 OLP reticular type and 25 OLP erosive (OLP-E) type patients aged 35–55 years were enrolled in the study along with age and sex-matched 25 healthy subjects as control. Tissue antioxidant enzymes were measured biochemically, single-cell DNA damage was measured by comet assay and the molecular markers for inflammation were assessed by using semi-quantitative reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction. Statistical analyses were performed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc test.

Results:

Oxidative stress was significantly greater in OLP-E type compared to the reticular. mRNA expression of cyclooxygenase-2 was significantly elevated (P < 0.0001) in erosive form, but such expression of nuclear factor kappa beta, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, Interleukin-6 and inducible nitric oxide synthase did not significantly differ between the two disease groups. Comet assay revealed a higher degree of DNA strand breakage in erosive lesions.

Conclusions:

The unhandled free radicals may imbalance the homeostatic network toward pro-inflammatory, DNA damaging responses, creating a vicious cell-damaging spree resulting in stress. Molecular analyses showed that erosive lichen planus is more under stress than the reticular form.
Antifungal effects of tulsi, garlic, cinnamon and lemongrass in powder and oil form on Candida albicans
Authors: Prajapati Mitul , Shah Monali , Ranginwala Amena , Agrawal Prakhar , Acharya Dhruval , Thakkar Shreya
Published: April 2023

Introduction:

The use of plants for treating diseases is as old as the human species. Medicinal plants have been a major source of therapeutic agents for alleviation and cure of diseases.

Objectives:

The objective of the study was to evaluate and compare the antifungal activity of garlic, cinnamon, lemongrass and tulsi in powder and oil form at different concentrations on Candida albicans.

Materials and Methods:

Powder and oil of garlic, cinnamon, lemongrass and Tulsi dissolved in inert solvent dimethyl formamide to obtain different concentration. Stock solution of different concentration was inoculated on Petri plates containing C. albicans and incubated at 30°C for 48 h. The inhibition zones were measured in millimeters using Vernier caliper. The collected data were analyzed using statistical test like mean value and one-way analysis of variance.

Results:

Maximum zone of inhibition for the C. albicans was 42 mm at concentrations of 50% for the oil of lemongrass; followed by cinnamon 40 mm, garlic 24 mm and tulsi 20 mm. The P value obtained 0.050, 0.040, 0.036 and 0.031 were found to be statically significant for C. albicans at 20%, 30%, 40% and 50% concentrations of the various oil preparations, respectively. The P value obtained 0.043, 0.033, 0.032 and 0.027 were found to be statically significant for C. albicans at 20%, 30%, 40% and 50% concentrations of various plant powder, respectively.

Conclusions:

Lemongrass and cinnamon oil shows best antifungal effect against C. albicans as compared to garlic and tulsi. Compared to powder preparations, the oil preparations are better to inhibit the growth and higher the concentrations, greater the zone of inhibition seen in all the plant extracts and in oil.
Secretory carcinoma of salivary gland – A systematic review of pediatric case reports and case series
Authors: Vasanthi V , Ramadoss R
Published: April 2023

Aim:

Mammary analog secretory carcinoma (MASC) is a new pathological entity of salivary gland origin recognized as Secretory Carcinoma (SC) in the WHO 2017 classification. Pediatric cases of MASC were reviewed systematically from 2010 to 2019.

Materials and Methods:

Databases were searched from 2010 to 2019 for pediatric case reports and case series, excluding retrospective studies. A total of 12 manuscripts were reviewed for clinical, histological and immunohistochemical findings.

Results:

A total of 13 pediatric cases (11 case reports and 1 case series of 2 cases) of MASC in pediatric patients were found. The youngest reported age was 5 years. The common site was parotid gland usually presenting as a slowly growing firm, painless mass.

Conclusion:

MASC should be considered in the differential diagnosis of salivary gland tumors in pediatric population, especially from parotid gland. Extended research on such recent entities with more inputs from new cases reported in literature may outstretch the possibilities of therapeutic fusion inhibition in future.
A comparative assessment of pomegranate extract, sodium hypochlorite, chlorhexidine, Myrrh (Commiphora molmol), tulsi extract against Enterococcus faecalis, Fusobacterium nucleatum and Staphylococci epidermidis
Authors: Sisodiya Mallwika , Ahmed Shadab , Sengupta Ranjan , Priyanka  , Saha Ankit Kumar , Verma Gourav
Published: April 2023

Background:

The presence of pathogenic bacteria, toxins and byproducts in the root canal system show a decisive part in success of endodontic therapy. Thus, the complete removal of this bacterium is highly desirable. Several intracanal medicaments were tried to disinfect the root canal before obturation.

Aim:

The present study was conducted to compare Pomegranate, sodium hypochlorite, Chlorhexidine, Myrrh (Commiphora molmol), tulsi extract against Enterococcus faecalis, Fusobacterium nucleatum and Staphylococci epidermidis.

Settings and Design:

Cross-sectional observational prospective study.

Materials and Methodology:

Aqueous extract of 20% pomegranate peel, 20% pomegranate peel, 0.2% CHX, 2.5% sodium hypochlorite, Tulsi extract and Myrrh (Commiphora molmol) was used as agent against E. faecalis, F. nucleatum and Staphylococci Epidermidis. Zone of inhibition and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was calculated and compared using analysis of variance and Mann–Whitney test. The information was statistically evaluated with SPSS software version 20 with P < 0.05.

Results and conclusion:

The mean zone of inhibition against E. faecalis, F. nucleatum and S. Epidermidis was highest in chlorhexidine and sodium hypochlorite groups compared to herbal groups. MIC was least with group III followed by group II against all bacterial species (P < 0.05). Sodium hypochlorite found comparatively better followed by chlorhexidine and other agents against E. faecalis, F nucleatum and S. epidermidis.
Investigating the access barriers to oral and dental health services for children from the perspective of parents attending the health centers of Kerman
Authors: Vali Leyla , Zare Zahra , Jahani Yones , Kalavani Khalil
Published: April 2023

Background:

Oral health plays a key role in people's overall health. Dental caries is the most important problem in children's oral health. Despite significant advances made in the area of oral health around the world, there is inequality in access to oral health within Iran and abroad, and this is considered a public health challenge. This study was conducted to investigate the access barriers to children's oral health services from the perspective of parents attending the health centers of Kerman, Iran.

Materials and Methods:

The present descriptive-analytical study was carried out, as a cross-sectional survey, on 410 parents of children living in Kerman, Iran. The data were collected by access barriers questionnaire, and then were analyzed by SPSS software using descriptive statistical methods and the multiple linear regression test. Confidence interval (CI) in this study was 95% (95% CI).

Results:

The most common access barrier to children's oral health was the high treatment cost. The access barriers to children's oral health services were significantly associated with parental education (P = 0.00), maternal employment (P = 0.04), supplementary insurance (P = 0.00), and family income (P = 0.01). Parental satisfaction was also significantly correlated to the child's sex (P = 0.04), supplementary insurance (P = 0.04), and number of filled teeth (P = 0.04). The mean score of parental satisfaction was 1.83 ± 0.34; within the range of 1–3 from satisfied to dissatisfied.

Conclusion:

The cost of dental treatment services high and there are many barriers to accessing children's oral health.
Investigation of the antifungal effects of curcumin against nystatin-resistant Candida albicans
Authors: Hajifathali Soha , Lesan Simin , Lotfali Ensieh , Salimi-Sabour Ebrahim , Khatibi Mandana
Published: April 2023

Background:

Emergence of nystatin-resistant Candida albicans (C. albicans) strains has raised some concerns in the recent years. Recent scientific evidence proves that turmeric, especially curcumin, has anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal activity. The aim of this study was the investigation of the antifungal effects of curcumin against nystatin-resistant C. albicans.

Materials and Methods:

This in vitro, experimental study evaluated standard-strain (ATCC 16201) and 10 nystatin-resistant C. albicans strains. The antifungal activity and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of curcumin were evaluated using the CLSI-M27-A3, and the MIC of curcumin was compared with that of nystatin. The results were analyzed using the one-way ANOVA.

Results:

The MIC of curcumin was 15.6, 32.25, 15.6, 7.8, 32.25, 15.6, 15.6, 15.6, 32.25, and 15.6 μg/mL for the 10 resistant strains and 62.5 μg/mL for the standard strain of C. albicans. Curcumin in the above-mentioned concentrations significantly inhibited the proliferation of nystatin-resistant C. albicans strains (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

According to this research, it was shown that curcumin with MIC value of 7.8–32.25 μg/mL has inhibitory effects on nystatin-resistant C. albicans strains.
Human papillomavirus in oral squamous cell carcinoma using p16 and its co-relationship with cervical lymph node metastasis and clinicopathological parameters
Authors: Khalesi Saeedeh , Eskandari Shahnaz , Jahanshahi Gholamreza , Nasr Faezeh
Published: April 2023

Background:

Due to the increasing prevalence of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) in Iran and especially in young people, this study aimed to identify human papillomavirus (HPV) using p16 in OSCC.

Materials and Methods:

In this descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study, 40 samples from the archives of the Pathology Department of Kashani Hospital were selected by a definitive diagnosis of OSCC with neck dissection. Demographic information including age, gender, location, and size of the lesion was obtained. Samples were divided into two groups based on lymph node (LN) metastasis. Immunohistochemical staining was performed for p16. Data were entered into SPSS 24 software and statistically analyzed by t-test, ANOVA, and Spearman nonparametric test. P <0.05 was statistically significant.

Results:

The mean age of patients was 59.7 ± 17.11 which in terms of age and gender there was no significant difference between the two groups including with and without cervical LN metastasis (P > 0.05). There was no significant difference between the two groups based on the grade of tumor, perninural invasion, tumor size and location (P > 0.05). The only significant difference between the two groups was based on lymphovascular invasion and disease stage (P < 0.05). The p16 expression also showed a significant difference between the two groups (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

In OSCCs without cervical LN metastasis, a significant increase in p16 expression was observed compared to samples with cervical LNs metastasis. The presence of HPV was higher in samples with less LNs metastasis and possibly a better prognosis.
General awareness of symptoms of myocardial infarction and the need for urgent treatment
Authors: E Thirumurugan , K Gomathi , P Swathy , Afrin Syed Ali , Alekhya Ponduri Lakshmi , B Jishnu , Das Banashree
Published: April 2023

Objective:

To investigate the golden-time-awareness of and the necessary actions in response to acute myocardial infarction among the general public.

Methods:

This study was conducted with the use of a descriptive research design and convenience sampling. A sample of 800 subjects, using self-structured knowledge questionnaires, was selected for data collection and analysis. The study was conducted at Dr. M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute, India, from February to November 2022. Awareness of myocardial infarction symptoms and intervention timeline (the golden time) was investigated. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the demographic factors affecting the recognition of the golden time of acute myocardial infarction.

Results:

A total of 800 subjects were included. Among the subjects, 367 (45.8%) were male, 433 (54.2%) were female, and 443 (55.3%) participants failed to recognize the golden time. Our multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that people with a bachelor’s degree (OR=0.41, 95% CI: 0.23-0.74, P=0.03) and a high school level diploma (OR=0.55, 95% CI: 0.31-0.97, P=0.03) are more likely to know about myocardial infarction (golden time) than illiterate people. Additionally, people who are employed (OR=0.59, 95% CI: 0.41-0.85, P=0.05) are more likely to know about myocardial infarction (golden time) than those who are not.

Conclusions:

The majority of people in the awareness group realize that taking myocardial infarction patients to the hospital would be the best course of action. The unawareness of the ideal treatment window for myocardial infarction may cause a delay in seeking medical attention, which can lead to an increase in mortality and morbidity.
Gestational glucose intolerance (GGI) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) among antenatal women attending urban community health centers of Lucknow: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Gautam Pradeep K. , Agarwal Monika , Agarwal Anjoo , Singh V. K. , Jauhari Sugandha
Published: April 2023

ABSTRACT

Background:

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is an emerging public health concern in India, which has detrimental effects on both the mother and the baby. The data on prevalence of GDM was unavailable at secondary urban health facilities, from where a majority of pregnant women seek antenatal services, and the following study identifies this burden.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted from May 2019 to June 2020 among pregnant women attending the antenatal outpatient department (OPD) at secondary level health facilities in urban Lucknow. A semi-structured interview schedule was administered to the study subjects for collecting the relevant information and 75 g of oral glucose tolerance test was performed irrespective of the meal. The cut-off points taken for the diagnosis of GDM and gestational glucose intolerance (GGI) was as per the guidelines of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare for diagnosis of GGI/GDM.

Results:

The overall prevalence of GDM and GGI in the study was 11.6% and 16.8%, respectively. Three-fourth of the women (22/29) were diagnosed with GDM in the second trimester of pregnancy. The prevalence of GDM (16.7%) was significantly higher in pregnant women aged more than 25 years and in those who were overweight. Mean birth weight (3.2 ± 8.1 kg) of the babies was significantly higher in the women with GDM. Among the fetal complications was respiratory distress observed among 28 pregnant women and 31% of them had GDM and this was statistically significant.

Conclusion:

The prevalence of GGI and GDM was found 16.8% and 11.6%, respectively. Gestational age, pre-pregnancy weight, pre-pregnancy BMI, weight gain during the pregnancy, family history of diabetes. PCOS, macrosomia and GDM in prior pregnancies was found to significant with GDM in the study.