bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
College students’ knowledge, attitude, and practices on COVID-19 prevention post e-health education program
Authors: Villarino Resti Tito , Villarino Maureen Lorence , Temblor Maria Concepcion , Bernard Prosper , Plaisent Michel
Published: March 2023

This study explored if significant improvements in knowledge, attitude, and practices among college students will be observed post E-health education program on COVID-19 prevention. The study reports a pre-post quantitative research on 178 college students. The participants received nine sessions of e-health education developed using the Communicable Disease Control Health Education Curriculum Analysis Tool (HECAT) through Zoom. The adapted and modified questionnaire was developed from previously published literature regarding viral epidemics related to MERS-CoV disease, infection prevention, and control measures for COVID-19 by World Health Organization and the Communicable Disease Control and Prevention guidelines. The first phase gathers the relevant profile and background of the participants, and the last phase comprises post-evaluation. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 27. The results indicate above-average means for knowledge on COVID-19 prevention in the pretest (17.75±2.27) and the posttest (17.60±2.95). Moreover, the participants were aware of the importance of vaccination, social distancing measures, following health protocols, and the essentiality of compliance with government agencies' guidelines. However, the participants were not practicing some of these health measures, as evidenced by the low means in the pretest (1.75±0.97) and posttest (1.66±1.08). All tests for significant differences of pretest and posttest means of knowledge (p=0.46), attitude (p=0.12), and practices (p=0.41) on COVID-19 prevention were all insignificant. Our study provides evidence that the online health education program improved college students' knowledge and attitude toward COVID-19 prevention. Still, they did not adhere to or practice some of the health measures to prevent its transmission.
Eco-health survey effort to diagnose readiness for sustainability dengue prevention and control
Authors: Siyam Nur , Hermawati Bertakalswa , Fauzi Lukman , Nur Fadila Fahma , Lestari Niken , Janah Sifa Ul , Sungatno Sungatno , Utomo Nadia Insrswari
Published: March 2023

The prevention and control of dengue fever with the eco-health approach are crucial especially at the household level. However, the implementation is still limited and has continued to experience several obstacles. This study aimed to analyze the eco-health-based dengue vector control at the household level, identify the factors influencing decision-making, and assess household readiness towards the implementation. The study was conducted in Bandarharjo Village, the coastal area of Semarang City and the samples were residents who had settled for at least six months, selected using the purposive sampling technique. Furthermore, the household survey used a mixed method with quantitative and qualitative approaches. Data were collected through a Google Form, which consists of a questionnaire, an observation checklist by respondents, and interview guidelines with open- ended answer questions. The data were further analyzed with Univariate Analysis and qualitative data were processed with the Uwe Flick method. The results showed that the majority or 65.1% of the community is ready to carry out prevention and control with the eco-health method as indicated by the excellent and good readiness criteria of 14.7% and 50.5% respectively. Social capital and support from stakeholders, as well as community leaders, were found to strengthen community readiness for sustainable eco-health prevention and control of dengue fever.
Pneumothorax and pneumomediastinum among COVID-19 patients with mechanical ventilation: a case series
Authors: Luthfiana Kartika , Faisal Achmad , Rosadi Bramastha Aires
Published: March 2023

The incidence of pneumothorax is 10% of all COVID-19 patients and increases in patients who develop acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) with mechanical ventilation, responsible for 24% of the population. As many as 60.7% of patients who have complications of pneumothorax or pneumomediastinum lead to mortality. This study was established to determine the potential of early tracheostomy in preventing the occurrence of pneumothorax and pneumomediastinum in COVID-19 and reducing mortality. This research was conducted as a descriptive study by case series of three COVID-19 patients in Jakarta, Indonesia in the span of 2021-2022. Tracheostomy performed within 10 days, did not develop a pneumothorax. Although, the patient did not have any comorbidities, age below 70 years, and coagulopathy problem, there was still a risk of recurrent pneumothorax post COVID-19 after tracheostomy. However, a tracheostomy is a procedure that poses an aerosol risk, so there is concern about the transmission of COVID-19 to medical personnel who perform it. Early tracheostomy has the potential to accelerate the resolution of COVID-19 disease in patients and has a positive impact on lung vitality. It is aimed to prevent hypoxic conditions and optimize the lung recruitment process. In addition, they did not experience complications from COVID-19 in the form of an air leak syndrome such as a pneumothorax or pneumomediastinum.
A note on the occurrence of Cremnochonchus conicus (Blanford, 1870) in Mumbai, India
Authors: Kaji Naman , Yadav Shubham
Published: March 2023

The Caenogastropod family Littorinidae is almost exclusively marine, but a unique freshwater genus, Cremnoconchus, is known from India. Cremnoconchus conicus (Blanford, 1870) were observed on 11th of July, 2021 in healthy populations in Conservation Education Centre of Mumbai. The species preferred streams and smaller waterfalls (cascades) with stony substrate and dense riparian vegetation. The note emphasizes on extension of its present known range and habitat preferences.
Assessment of population, habitat, and threats to Cycas pectinata Buch.-Ham. (Cycadaceae), a vulnerable cycad in Bhutan
Authors: Tobgay Sonam , Wangdi Tenjur , Wangchuck Karma , Dolkar Jamyang , Nidup Tshering
Published: March 2023

Cycas pectinata Buch.-Ham. is an ancient gymnosperm that is now confined to pockets of habitats in the Indian subcontinent but was once widely distributed. Its decline is attributable to habitat loss, and has reached the point where C. pectinata is listed as ‘Vulnerable’ in the IUCN Red List. C. pectinata is the only species of Cycas found in Bhutan, and in this biodiversity-rich area it is present as a relic of great scientific and conservation value because of its rarity and long evolutionary history. Although it is well known in India, it has not been studied in detail in Bhutan. This study assessed populations and threats to C. pectinata in two places in Bhutan. Field visits were made to document the distribution, habitats, and associated threats to the populations. Plants were observed growing in steep rugged terrain in the open Chir Pine forest. Populations are significantly threatened due to human activities such as habitat destruction and over collection as ornamental plant. Possible expansion of populations is naturally threatened by low seed production and by predators.
Ecological niche modeling to find potential habitats of Vanda thwaitesii, a notified endangered orchid of Western Ghats, India
Authors: Decruse S. William
Published: March 2023

Conservation planning of a threatened species essentially requires information on its present population and extent of distribution. Ecological niche modeling (ENM) is a suitable machine learning technique to predict potential distribution of a species enabling to identify suitable habitat for conservation action. The present study undertook distribution modeling of Vanda thwaitesii, a notified endangered orchid species of the Indian Western Ghats and Sri Lanka using maxent software. Geographical coordinates of 54 occurrence points at 1 km resolutions gathered during the study were utilized for modeling. A total of 37 variables including bioclimatic, topographical, and seasonal climate subjected to principal component analysis extracted into three components based on temperature and precipitation. Four representative variables from each component in all possible combinations resulted consistent output showing distribution of the species extending from Gavi in Periyar Tiger Reserve of Kerala to Chikkamagalur of Karnataka. Habitat suitability was confined to the cooler regions receiving an average 3,400 mm annual mean precipitation, 22.70C annual mean temperature, and 290 mm summer precipitation. A total of 2,557 km2 in Kerala and Karnataka mostly outside protected forests demonstrated as the highly suitable habitats. Silent Valley National Park, Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary, Periyar Tiger Reserve, and Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary in addition to a few reserve forests hold sufficient area for reinforcement of diversity of V. thwaitesii from vulnerable locations. The present study revealed niche modeling as a useful tool to find suitable habitats for V. thwaitesii in the Western Ghats.
Redefining Pallisentis ophiocephali (Thapar, 1930) Baylis, 1933 from two freshwater fishes of Channidae family of Hooghly District, West Bengal, India
Authors: Banerjee Prabir , Modak Biplob Kumar
Published: March 2023

The genus Pallisentis has been mostly found among the freshwater fishes of Channidae family. Pallisentis ophiocephali is characterized with some unique characters of proboscis, hooks, and spines. However, initial description is a little sketchy and yet not updated. The present study communicates the detail morphology of an acanthocephalan species obtained from two host fishes of Channidae family—Channa striatus and Channa punctatus—during a one-year survey from different places of Hooghly District, West Bengal. The parasite is examined under light microscope as well as under scanning electron microscope. Unique four hook circles with different sizes, collar, and trunk spines, male and female genital organs are described for taxonomic study. Scanning electron microscopic study also provides the detailed information about the surface topography including longitudinal muscle, retractor muscles, and posterior ends. Comparing the studied specimen with other closely related species, the present acanthocephalan specimen has been identified as P. ophiocephali from Channa striatus. The retractable nature of proboscis has also been studied from the live specimens with the help of light microscope.
An extended distribution and rediscovery of Rhynchosia suaveolens (L.f.) DC. (Fabaceae) for Maharashtra, India
Authors: Mishra Ajay K. , Gupta Vedhika , Rajurkar Ajay V. , Dhole Pankaj A. , Wagh Vijay V.
Published: March 2023

Rhynchosia suaveolens (L.f.) DC. was reported for the first time from the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra. It is rediscovered after 144 years from Maharashtra. Previously, this species was recorded only from the southern part of India. In the present article detailed description, illustration, digital photographs, and relevant notes are provided to facilitate its easy identification.
Photographic evidence of bioluminescent mushroom Mycena chlorophos (Mycenaceae) from Goa
Authors: Patil Swanand R. , Mirjoy M. Mathew  , Abhijeet V. Patil  , Ramesh N. Zarmekar  , Pankaj R. Lad  , Grenville Dcosta
Published: March 2023

This study provides photographic evidence of presence of species of glowing mushroom Mycena chlorophos in Goa. The species was observed in buffer area of Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary.
Documenting butterflies with the help of citizen science in Darjeeling-Sikkim Himalaya, India
Authors: Pradhan Aditya , George Rohit , Dewan Sailendra
Published: March 2023

The availability of information on the distribution and occurrence of different species in a landscape is crucial to developing an informed conservation and management plan, however such information in the Himalaya is often limited. Citizen science, which builds on the knowledge and interest of communities to contribute to science, can be a solution to this problem. In this study, we used butterflies as a model taxon in the Darjeeling-Sikkim Himalaya which shows how citizen science can aid in documenting biodiversity. The study employed both citizen science, and researcher-survey approaches to collect data, and the collective effort resulted in 407 species, which is the highest by any study carried out in the region. Results show that citizen science can be helpful as a supplementary tool for data collection in biodiversity documentation projects, and can aid in adding to the diversity and distribution records of species, including those that are unique, rare, seasonal, and nationally protected. Citizen science outreach was used to muster potential participants from the local community to participate in the study. Thus, it is advisable for citizen science projects to find means to recruit a larger pool of contributors, and citizen science outreach can be key to their success.
Habitats and nesting habits of Streaked Weaver Ploceus manyar in select wetlands in the northern districts of Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: M. Pandian
Published: March 2023

The habitats and nesting habits of Streaked Weaver Ploceus manyar was studied in the Narrow Leaf Cattail Typha angustifolia (Typhaceae) wetlands in Ranipet, Kancheepuram, and Viluppuram districts of northern Tamil Nadu. A total of 349 nests, in various developmental stages, in 24 colonies and of 536 adult individuals were enumerated. Of these 349 nests, 43 nests were in wad stage, 28 in ring stage, 123 in helmet stage, 55 egg-chamber-closed stage, and 100 complete nests including two abnormal nests were recorded. Streaked Weaver used fibres of T. angustifolia for building nests. Females were also observed to be engaged in nest construction, while males placed blobs of cow dung on the inner or both walls of helmet stage nests before pairing with females; 88.7% helmet stage nests had deposition of cow dung on their inner walls and the remaining 11.3% nests had no such deposits. In 59% nests the entrance tubes were found facing east. They showed communal foraging and the flock size ranged from 50─80 birds. No antagonistic interactions were observed between Streaked Weavers and other species over sharing of common perching sites and foraging grounds. Harvesting of nest-supporting reeds and sightings of avian predators, such as House Crow Corvus splendens, Large-billed Crow Corvus macrorhynchos, and Rufous Treepie Dendocitta vagabunda near nest colonies may pose threats to Streaked Weavers.
New distribution records of two uncommon microhylid frogs, Melanobatrachus indicus Beddome, 1878 and Mysticellus franki Garg & Biju, 2019 from Nelliyampathy, Kerala, India
Authors: Agashe Madhura , Ghosh Avrajjal , K. Dilshad  , Sil Maitreya , Datta-Roy Aniruddha
Published: March 2023

New distribution points add to our knowledge of species distribution patterns and can have conservation implications for threatened species. In this note, we report an additional distribution point for the rare anuran species—Melanobatrachus indicus and Mysticellus franki—from Nelliyampathy in the southern Western Ghats, the latter of which is recorded from the southern Western Ghats for the first time since its description.
PARADIGM SHIFT FOR THE CONSUMERS ON THE EDGE OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL CRISIS: BIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF NEW ENVIRONMENTAL PARADIGM
Authors: ÇELİK Asiye Ayben
Published: March 2023

In the era of Anthropocene, with Dominant Social Paradigm the humankind has intruded nature with a greed to dominate and possess more. Adoption of consumer/consumption-oriented economy models caused pollution, climate change, and damage to the environment. In 1978 New Environmental Paradigm was introduced to exclaim the need for a new worldview to increase the awareness and support of mankind in favor of nature. It’s been adopted by several disciplines and used in the environmental behavior literature to assess the environmental concern/attitudes. Since attitudes shapes the behavior, and the pro-environmental behavior has a transformative power on the sustainability and the survival of the nature, its determinants were analyzed through several theories. With this study, it’s aimed to focus on New Environmental Paradigm and reveal its dominance in environmental behavior literature with a bibliometric analysis demonstrating the most productive and influential studies, authors, universities and countries to shed light for researchers.
DOES BETTER ACCESS TO FINANCE LEAD TO HIGHER INNOVATION?
Authors: GÜLTEKİN Havva , İŞCANOĞLU ÇEKİÇ Ayşegül
Published: March 2023

This study mainly focuses on the impact of various financing channels on corporate innovations. For this purpose, three kinds of external financing sources and two kinds of internal financing sources are considered. The study covers 18 Turkis h companies traded in Istanbul Stock Exchange with the highest R&D expenditures of the year 2019. The analyzes are carried out using dynamic panel data analysis. The estimation results show that loans have a negative and statistically significant effect on R&D expenditures. Moreover, according to the findings, there is no statistically significant effect of internal financing on R&D expenditures. The results of the study provide valuable information on how companies finance innovation processes.
DOES THE RISK-TAKING OR RISK-SHIFTING CHANNEL OF MONETARY POLICY WORK IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES? EVIDENCE FROM TVP-VAR APPROACH
Authors: YILDIRIM Durmuş Çağrı , ERDOĞAN Seyfettin , ESEN Ömer , ÇEVİK Emrah İsmail
Published: March 2023

In the study, the validity of the risk-taking channel was investigated using the monthly data between 2003 and 2018, in particular for Brazil, South Africa and Turkey countries. According to test results, for Turkey the response of leverage rate to unexpected increases in policy interest rate was measured positively; for Brazil it was measured positively and for South Africa, it was measured positively during the sample period.
Finally, for all countries the reaction of industrial production to shocks in the policy interest rate was calculated to be negative during the sample period. Thus, it is concluded that the risk-taking channel is effective for these countries during the analysis period (especially in times of crisis), and that monetary policy could be used as an effective tool for managing macroeconomic risk.
DETERMINING THE CAUSAL RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN BALTIC DRY INDEX (BDI) AND MACROECONOMIC VARIABLES BY TODA-YAMAMOTO ANALYSIS
Authors: ÖZCAN AKDAĞ Nesrin , KOCABIYIK Turan , KARAATLI Meltem
Published: March 2023

The Baltic Dry Index (BDI) is the most critical indicator taking the pulse of maritime trade. Hence, it is essential to determine the macroeconomic variables that affect the BDI, which is a solid indicator for global economic activities in maritime transport.
This research paper studies the association between macroeconomic indicators and the BDI. For this purpose, the Toda-Yamamoto approach was performed to examine the causal association between macroeconomic variables and the BDI. The Lee-Strazicich (LS) unit root test was applied based on Model C (break) to determine the stationary of the model series.
The research's findings shed significant light on the relationship between the BDI and macroeconomic variables. According to the Toda-Yamamoto causality test results: BDI has a two-way relationship with S&P 500 and MSCI World indexes; besides, there is a one-way relationship from €/$ parity to BDI and from BDI to BCOM index.
THE EFFECT OF MACROECONOMIC FACTORS ON ONLINE LABOR PLATFORM USERS: THE CASE OF TURKEY
Authors: TUNA Murat Fatih , KARADAŞ Hacı Ahmet
Published: March 2023

This study examines the relationship between the online labour force and real economic factors. Since the Online labour index is one of the main determinants of the GIG economy, this study also reveals which macroeconomic variables the GIG economy is based on. The aim of the study is to determine the effect of real economic factors (unemployment, economic growth, inflation) on the count of online platform users. As a result of the econometric analysis conducted with Turkey's data set for the period of June 2017 -January 2021, it has been determined that real economic factors have a statistically significant effect on the count of online platform users. According to the results of the analysis, the increase in unemployment rate and economic growth will cause an increase in the count of online platform users, while increase in inflation will cause an opposite effect.
A FIELD RESEARCH FOR THE APPLICATION PROCESS OF UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE BENEFITS IN TERMS OF SOCIAL POLICIES AND LABOR FORCE MANAGEMENT
Authors: DİNÇAY İsmail Hakkı , BALUN Bora , KURTER Osman
Published: March 2023

The aim of this study is to determine the depression, anxiety, and stress levels of those who apply for unemployment insurance benefits using the DASS-21 scale, which is an important social policy aiming to partially and temporarily compensate the income loss of the employees whose job was terminated, and to shed light on the policies to be created in this direction. For this purpose, the research was carried out with a total of 479 individuals, 279 of whom were women and 280 were men, who applied for Unemployment İnsurance Benefits at Turkiye Employment Agency (İŞKUR) Eskişehir Provincial Directorate between September 1-30, 2022. The data obtained from this study shows that there is no significant difference in the levels of depression, anxiety, and stress according to the gender of the participants. Considering the same case in terms of marital status and education level, it was observed that depression, anxiety, and stress levels were higher if the individuals were married, and the education level of the individuals was higher. In addition, it has been observed that the depression, anxiety, and stress levels of individuals who work in the same workplace for longer periods than the shorter ones displayed higher levels of emotions on the measurements while applying for unemployment insurance benefits.
SAFETY CLIMATE PERCEPTION OF CABIN ATTENDANTS IN TURKEY: SAMPLE STUDY FOR AN AIRLINE COMPANY
Authors: ULUFER KANSOY Seçil , ÇAKIR TEMEL Nisan Nur
Published: March 2023

Some researches show that employees who perceive the workplace as safe encounter fewer work accidents than those who perceive the workplace as dangerous. This result also coincides with the result that there are fewer accidents in safe workplaces. Similarly, it was stated that the anxiety and stress levels of the employees who found the workplace safe were low and that they were exposed to environmental risks arising from fewer workplaces. Climate perception is a concept for how employees perceive the safety environment in the organization. In the aviation industry, where safety is a top priority, a positive perceived safety climate is of great importance. The current research aimed to investigate whether cabin attendants' perceptions of safety climate differ according to their socio-demographic characteristics. From this point of view, the analysis of the research, which used a survey technique to measure the safety climate perception of 230 cabin attendants, was made with the SPSS 26.0 program. The findings show that cabin crew's perception of safety climate does not differ according to age, gender and marital status.
Kakothrips acanthus Berzosa (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) in Türkiye, with an illustrated key to the species of Kakothrips
Authors: NEGİŞ İNCİ ŞAHİN
Published: March 2023

Kakothrips acanthus Berzosa, previously known only from Spain and Sicily, is newly reported from Türkiye, based on a single female. Diagnostic characters of the specimen are provided, also an illustrated key to the eight species of Kakothrips Williams, and available data on the plant associations of these species. Females of Kakothrips priesneri are considered remarkable among Thripinae in having sternal pore plates.
Mindfulness and Diversity Acceptance as Indicators of Frugality-linked Sustainability Behaviour During COVID-19: Mediating Role of Happiness
Authors: Rishi Parul , BK Pavan , Gupta Soumya , Sinha Shruti
Published: March 2023

Sustainable behaviour promotes pro-ecological behaviour and is a practice of consuming and utilizing resources responsibly. The ongoing COVID-19-induced pandemic has already put economic, social and psychological distress across the globe. Meanwhile, it has become vital to think of issues related to the sustainable management of resources. Behavioural norms play a prominent role while promoting sustainable living. This research examines how the sustainable dimension in one’s behaviour influences the decision-making in their daily life. Previous studies have shown the importance of sub-factors like happiness, diversity constraint and frugal actions as factors affecting sustainable behaviour. These indicators mainly define the action one will choose to react to while buying and consuming different resources. The study identifies happiness as the mediating variable which influences the relationship between the predictor variables—mindfulness and diversity acceptance and the criterion variable—frugality-linked sustainable behaviour. With a sample of 324 participants, Baron and Kenny’s mediation model was outlined to test the mediation. Results showed a positive relationship between frugality, diversity, mindfulness and happiness. Happiness was found to be mediating between mindfulness, diversity acceptance and frugality-linked sustainable behaviour indicating that mindfulness and diversity acceptance alone have limited potential to impact the frugality-linked sustainable approach that individuals take. Happiness, as explained through a positive frame of mind, plays a very important role in enhancing sustainability behaviour.
Depiction of Science and Technology in Post-Millennial Tamil Cinema
Authors: Mahalakshmi Mangudi Ramgopal , Rajendran Lavanya
Published: March 2023

Technological advancement worldwide has impacted the cinema’s narratives, and Indian cinema is no exception to this. Science fiction is one of the fascinated genres of the Indian film industry. Incorporating science concepts in plots with the usual commercial elements provides a unique platform for the creators. This hybridisation by the creators instigates imagination among the audience. This paper explains the scientific concepts handled in the sci-fi genre of contemporary Tamil cinema (2010–2020). The study aims to track down how science concepts are dealt with in contemporary Tamil films. Films are classified into five categories based on the themes identified from the plots. A survey was conducted among the Tamil audience to know their opinion about Tamil sci-fi films.
Sustainability, Resilience, and Returns During COVID-19: Empirical Evidence from US and Indian Stock Markets
Authors: Yadav Neetu , Bhama Vandana
Published: March 2023

The growing number of consulting reports published globally show mixed evidence of higher returns for environmental, social, and governance (ESG) indices as compared to equity indices. The present study analyzes whether or not sustainability provided resilience, during turbulent times, to the US and India, who were worst hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. The study tests whether higher ESG scores led to higher stock returns during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings revealed little and negative associations of sustainability with stock returns for sample firms during the COVID-19 crisis. There is no empirical evidence indicating that sustainability guarantees resilience during crisis times. Investors have their own preference channels and taste for sustainability that are beyond their financial motives.

JEL Codes: Q01, G120
Creating Social Sustainability Through Distributing Leadership and Co-Responsibility in Corporate Volunteering
Authors: Hatami Akram , Hermes Jan , Keränen Anne , Ulkuniemi Pauliina
Published: March 2023

In this article, we apply a distributed perspective on leadership to the study of co-responsibility and social sustainability in corporate volunteering. An approach to leadership as a distributed and collective phenomenon, in which leadership is shared, is highlighted as a method of developing a more responsible and people-focused approach to sustainability. Co-responsibility highlights the transition from individual to co-created responsibility, influenced by different actors and offering a wider approach to responsibility. The present qualitative study employs two corporate volunteering cases from Finland as an empirical context for distributing leadership. As a result, the study suggests three transitions in organizational life and leadership, including transition in values, organizing, and dynamism. The study contributes to the discussion of social sustainability by demonstrating how several transitions in terms of leadership are necessary to enable an emerging sense of co-responsibility in companies which is argued as the key to companies’ social sustainability.
Injectable Platelet-Rich Fibrin and Microneedling—A Non-Surgical Approach for Gingival Augmentation: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Soundarajan Subasree , Malaippan Sankari
Published: March 2023

Aim:

The present study aimed to assess the efficacy of combining microneedling (MN) and injectable platelet-rich fibrin (i-PRF) administration with i-PRF alone in augmenting the thickness of gingiva to manage thin periodontal phenotype.

Methodology:

The clinical trial involved 36 patients who were diagnosed with thin periodontal phenotype. They were randomized under two groups: MN + i-PRF versus i-PRF alone, carried out as a split-mouth trial. One quadrant was treated only with i-PRF delivery through the gingival sulcus, while the contralateral side was treated with MN and i-PRF in 3 sessions at 10-day intervals. The primary parameter measured was the thickness of the gingiva, at baseline and 3 months following therapy. Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann-Whitney U test. Wilcoxon’s signed ranking test for inter-group and intra-group analysis, respectively.

Results:

The study results showed a significantly greater increase in gingival thickness (GT) in sites where both MN and i-PRF injection was done, compared to i-PRF alone, with a p value of .04.

Conclusion:

Both treatment modalities showed improvement in GT, being a minimally invasive alternative for mucogingival surgery. Adjunctive MN was found to be more beneficial than i-PRF alone. However, further research should be carried out to address the drawbacks of the study and for a better understanding of this novel approach.
Book review: Ishita Mehrotra, Political Economy of Class, Caste and Gender: A Study of Rural Dalit Labourers in India
Authors: Mukhia Anmol
Published: March 2023

Ishita Mehrotra, Political Economy of Class, Caste and Gender: A Study of Rural Dalit Labourers in India. Routledge India, 2022, ix + 213 pp., ₹1,295. ISBN: 978-1032425627.
Schistes Lustrés in a hyper-extended continental margin setting and reinterpretation of the limit between the Mont Fort and Tsaté nappes (Middle and Upper Penninics, Western Swiss Alps)
Authors: Pantet Adrien , Epard Jean-Luc , Masson Henri , Baumgartner-Mora Claudia , Baumgartner Peter Oliver , Baumgartner Lukas
Published: March 2023

The Schistes Lustrés form a large and complex unit at the top of the Penninic nappe stack of the Alpine belt. Calcschists, partly of Late Cretaceous age, constitute the dominant lithology. They are closely associated both with blueschist facies Piemont-Ligurian ophiolites and continent-derived Mesozoic metasediments. The question of whether the Schistes Lustrés originated on continental or oceanic crust has been extensively debated among Alpine geologists and is locally still controversial. We present here new structural and stratigraphic observations, as well as Raman graphite thermometry (RSCM) data, for the Schistes Lustrés complex of the Combin zone in the Hérens, Dix and Bagnes valleys. Our observations indicate that the basal part of this Schistes Lustrés complex (defined as the Série Rousse) is systematically devoid of ophiolitic material, and rests in stratigraphic contact on the underlying Triassic - Lower Cretaceous metasediments and Paleozoic basement of the Mont Fort nappe (Prepiemont paleogeographic domain). The unconformity at the base of the Schistes Lustrés complex is interpreted as resulting from the sedimentation of the Série Rousse on a paleorelief formed by remnants of Jurassic normal fault scarps, and not as an Alpine tectonic contact, as previously proposed. The lithostratigraphic comparison with the Breccia nappe in the Prealps, as well as a foraminifer discovery, allows us to better constrain the age of the Série Rousse. It extends from the middle of the Early Cretaceous (Aptian?) to the Late Cretaceous (Campanian to earliest Maastrichtian?). In contrast, the upper contact of the Série Rousse with the ophiolite-bearing Schistes Lustrés clearly corresponds to an Alpine thrust. The thrust zone is underlined by thin and discontinuous slices of highly strained continental-margin derived Mesozoic metasediments (Frilihorn slices). RSCM data show that the recrystallization of the organic matter progressively increases on both sides towards this contact. This contact, internal to the Schistes Lustrés complex, is reinterpreted as the major tectonic contact separating the Middle Penninic Mont Fort nappe from the Upper Penninic Tsaté nappe (defined here as including only the ophiolite-bearing Schistes Lustrés and associated meta(ultra-)basites). This study clearly documents that the Schistes Lustrés consist of sediments either deposited on oceanic crust, showing locally preserved stratigraphic contacts with ophiolitic or serpentinized sub-continental mantle slivers, or sediments still resting stratigraphically on a former hyper-extended continental margin.
Identification of kukoamine a as an anti-osteoporosis drug target using network pharmacology and experiment verification
Authors: Luo Liying , Guan Zhiyuan , Jin Xiao , Guan Zhiqiang , Jiang Yanyun
Published: March 2023

Background

Osteoporosis (OP) is a major and growing public health problem characterized by decreased bone mineral density and destroyed bone microarchitecture. Previous studies found that Lycium Chinense Mill (LC) has a potent role in inhibiting bone loss. Kukoamine A (KuA), a bioactive compound extract from LC was responsible for the anti-osteoporosis effect. This study aimed to investigate the anti-osteoporosis effect of KuA isolated from LC in treating OP and its potential molecular mechanism.

Method

In this study, network pharmacology and molecular docking were investigated firstly to find the active ingredients of LC such as KuA, and the target genes of OP by the TCMSP platform. The LC-OP-potential Target gene network was constructed by the STRING database and network maps were built by Cytoscape software. And then, the anti-osteoporotic effect of KuA in OVX-induced osteoporosis mice and MC3T3-E1 cell lines were investigated and the potential molecular mechanism including inflammation level, cell apoptosis, and oxidative stress was analyzed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), micro-CT, ELISA, RT-PCR, and Western Blotting.

Result

A total of 22 active compounds were screened, and we found KuA was identified as the highest active ingredient. Glycogen Phosphorylase (PYGM) was the target gene associated with a maximum number of active ingredients of LC and regulated KuA. In vivo, KuA treatment significantly increased the bone mineral density and improve bone microarchitecture for example increased BV/TV, Tb.N and Tb.Th but reduced Tb.Sp in tibia and lumber 4. Furthermore, KuA increased mRNA expression of osteoblastic differentiation-related genes in OVX mice and protects against OVX-induced cell apoptosis, oxidative stress level and inflammation level. In vitro, KuA significantly improves osteogenic differentiation and mineralization in cells experiment. In addition, KuA also attenuated inflammation levels, cell apoptosis, and oxidative stress level.

Conclusion

The results suggest that KuA could protect against the development of OP in osteoblast cells and ovariectomized OP model mice and these found to provide a better understanding of the pharmacological activities of KuA again bone loss.
Investigation of Experimental Devices for Finger Active and Passive Tactile Friction Analysis
Authors: Zhou Xue , Masen Marc A. , Mo Jiliang , Shi Xinyu , He Yaosheng , Jin Zhongmin
Published: March 2023

Complicated tribological behavior occurs when human fingers touch and perceive the surfaces of objects. In this process, people use their exploration style with different conditions, such as contact load, sliding speed, sliding direction, and angle of orientation between fingers and object surface consciously or unconsciously. This work addressed interlaboratory experimental devices for finger active and passive tactile friction analysis, showing two types of finger movement. In active sliding experiment, the participant slid their finger freely against the object surface, requiring the subject to control the motion conditions themselves. For passive sliding experiments, these motion conditions were adjusted by the device. Several analysis parameters, such as contact force, vibration acceleration signals, vibration magnitude, and fingerprint deformation were recorded simultaneously. Noticeable friction differences were observed when comparing active sliding and passive sliding. For passive sliding, stick-slip behavior occurred when sliding in the distal direction, evidenced by observing the friction force and the related deformation of the fingerprint ridges. The employed devices showed good repeatability and high reliability, which enriched the design of the experimental platform and provided guidance to the standardization research in the field of tactile friction.
Prolactin and oxytocin: potential targets for migraine treatment
Authors: Szewczyk Anna K. , Ulutas Samiye , Aktürk Tülin , Al-Hassany Linda , Börner Corinna , Cernigliaro Federica , Kodounis Michalis , Lo Cascio Salvatore , Mikolajek David , Onan Dilara , Ragaglini Chiara , Ratti Susanna , Rivera-Mancilla Eduardo , Tsanoula Sofia , Villino Rafael , Messlinger Karl , Maassen Van Den Brink Antoinette , de Vries Tessa ,   on behalf of the European Headache Federation School of Advanced Studies (EHF-SAS)
Published: March 2023

Migraine is a severe neurovascular disorder of which the pathophysiology is not yet fully understood. Besides the role of inflammatory mediators that interact with the trigeminovascular system, cyclic fluctuations in sex steroid hormones are involved in the sex dimorphism of migraine attacks. In addition, the pituitary-derived hormone prolactin and the hypothalamic neuropeptide oxytocin have been reported to play a modulating role in migraine and contribute to its sex-dependent differences. The current narrative review explores the relationship between these two hormones and the pathophysiology of migraine. We describe the physiological role of prolactin and oxytocin, its relationship to migraine and pain, and potential therapies targeting these hormones or their receptors.

In summary, oxytocin and prolactin are involved in nociception in opposite ways. Both operate at peripheral and central levels, however, prolactin has a pronociceptive effect, while oxytocin appears to have an antinociceptive effect. Therefore, migraine treatment targeting prolactin should aim to block its effects using prolactin receptor antagonists or monoclonal antibodies specifically acting at migraine-pain related structures. This action should be local in order to avoid a decrease in prolactin levels throughout the body and associated adverse effects. In contrast, treatment targeting oxytocin should enhance its signalling and antinociceptive effects, for example using intranasal administration of oxytocin, or possibly other oxytocin receptor agonists. Interestingly, the prolactin receptor and oxytocin receptor are co-localized with estrogen receptors as well as calcitonin gene-related peptide and its receptor, providing a positive perspective on the possibilities for an adequate pharmacological treatment of these nociceptive pathways. Nevertheless, many questions remain to be answered. More particularly, there is insufficient data on the role of sex hormones in men and the correct dosing according to sex differences, hormonal changes and comorbidities. The above remains a major challenge for future development.
Room-temperature ammonia gas sensing via Au nanoparticle-decorated TiO2 nanosheets
Authors: Hwang Jeong Yun , Lee Yerin , Lee Gyu Ho , Lee Seung Yong , Kim Hyun-Sik , Kim Sang-il , Park Hee Jung , Kim Sun-Jae , Lee Beom Zoo , Choi Myung Sik , Jin Changhyun , Lee Kyu Hyoung
Published: March 2023

A high-performance gas sensor operating at room temperature is always favourable since it simplifies the device fabrication and lowers the operating power by eliminating a heater. Herein, we fabricated the ammonia (NH3) gas sensor by using Au nanoparticle-decorated TiO2nanosheets, which were synthesized via two distinct processes: (1) preparation of monolayer TiO2nanosheets through flux growth and a subsequent chemical exfoliation and (2) decoration of Au nanoparticles on the TiO2nanosheets via hydrothermal method. Based on the morphological, compositional, crystallographic, and surface characteristics of this low-dimensional nano-heterostructured material, its temperature- and concentration-dependent NH3gas-sensing properties were investigated. A high response of ~ 2.8 was obtained at room temperature under 20 ppm NH3gas concentration by decorating Au nanoparticles onto the surface of TiO2nanosheets, which generated oxygen defects and induced spillover effect as well.
Proteomic analysis of sialoliths from calcified, lipid and mixed groups as a source of potential biomarkers of deposit formation in the salivary glands
Authors: Musiał Natalia , Bogucka Aleksandra , Tretiakow Dmitry , Skorek Andrzej , Ryl Jacek , Czaplewska Paulina
Published: March 2023

Salivary stones, also known as sialoliths, are formed in a pathological situation in the salivary glands. So far, neither the mechanism of their formation nor the factors predisposing to their formation are known despite several hypotheses. While they do not directly threaten human life, they significantly deteriorate the patient’s quality of life. Although this is not a typical research material, attempts are made to apply various analytical tools to characterise sialoliths and search for the biomarkers in their proteomes. In this work, we used mass spectrometry and SWATH-MS qualitative and quantitative analysis to investigate the composition and select proteins that may contribute to solid deposits in the salivary glands. Twenty sialoliths, previously characterized spectroscopically and divided into the following groups: calcified (CAL), lipid (LIP) and mixed (MIX), were used for the study. Proteins unique for each of the groups were found, including: for the CAL group among them, e.g. proteins from the S100 group (S100 A8/A12 and P), mucin 7 (MUC7), keratins (KRT1/2/4/5/13), elastase (ELANE) or stomatin (STOM); proteins for the LIP group—transthyretin (TTR), lactotransferrin (LTF), matrix Gla protein (MPG), submandibular gland androgen-regulated protein 3 (SMR3A); mixed stones had the fewest unique proteins. Bacterial proteins present in sialoliths have also been identified. The analysis of the results indicates the possible role of bacterial infections, disturbances in calcium metabolism and neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in the formation of sialoliths.
How and why we should move beyond natural selection in museums to tackle teleology
Authors: Smith Shelley L.
Published: March 2023

Background

Museum displays commonly use a “VIST” approach (Variation, Inheritance, Selection, and Time) to explain evolution to visitors. I contend that this framework, by focusing narrowly on natural selection, unintentionally reinforces intuitive teleological thinking and a “survival of the fittest” mentality. Exhibits that incorporate all the forces (or mechanisms) of evolution will instead challenge visitors’ preconceptions and enable them to develop a deeper understanding of evolution. In particular, visitors will appreciate that evolution is not progressive, with modern humans as the “most evolved” species.

Results

Explicit and implicit description of the forces of evolution is surveyed in 12 museums: 4 in Texas, 7 elsewhere in the U.S., and the Natural History Museum in London. Museum exhibits focus primarily on natural selection (explicit in 10 of 12) and often mention mutation (explicit in 7). Only the American Museum of Natural History in New York, in my sample, provides an explicit explanation of genetic drift.

Conclusions

Heavy emphasis on natural selection and limited explanation of stochastic forces contributes to an impoverished view of evolution. Exhibits should more effectively convey the complexity of microevolution. Computer simulations showing the interactions of evolutionary forces can accomplish this goal.
Venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation treatment for acute respiratory distress syndrome and non-occlusive mesenteric ischemia due to Pasteurella multocida-related sepsis with purpura fulminans: a case report
Authors: Fukuhara Aya , Fushimi Seiko , Nakata Masatoshi , Takamatsu Jumpei
Published: March 2023

Background

Pasteurella multocida-related sepsis can cause purpura fulminans (PF), a rare thrombotic disorder that often presents acutely and is potentially fatal. As a consequence of disseminated intravascular coagulation, this hematological emergency originates from micro-thrombotic occlusion of peripheral blood vessels and resulting circulatory failure. Thus far, no studies have reported the use of venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) for saving lives in patients with worsening respiratory and circulatory failure. Moreover, the development of non-occlusive mesenteric ischemia after VA-ECMO has not yet been documented. Here, we describe the case of a 52-year-old female patient with PF and non-occlusive mesenteric ischemia due to Pasteurella multocida-related sepsis who received VA-ECMO.

Case presentation

A 52-year-old-female patient presented to the hospital with a week-long fever and worsening cough. Chest radiography findings revealed ground-glass opacity. We made a diagnosis of acute respiratory distress syndrome due to sepsis and initiated ventilatory management. Because respiratory and circulatory parameters were not maintained, VA-ECMO was introduced. After admission, ischemic findings were observed in the periphery of the extremities, and a diagnosis of PF was made. Pasteurella multocida was detected in blood cultures. On day 9, the sepsis was cured with antimicrobial treatment. The patient’s respiratory and circulatory status improved, and she was weaned off VA-ECMO. However, on day 16, her stable circulatory system collapsed again, and her abdominal pain worsened. We performed exploratory laparotomy and noted necrosis and perforation of the small intestine. As a result, partial resection of the small intestine was performed.

Conclusion

In this case, VA-ECMO was used to maintain circulatory dynamics during septic shock in a patient with Pasteurella multocida infection who developed PF. Surgery was also performed for complicated ischemic necrosis of the intestinal tract, helping save the patient's life. This development illustrated the importance of paying attention to intestinal ischemia during intensive care.