bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Inclusion financière numérique et productivité agricole
Authors: Kitoto Patrick Arnold Ombiono 
Published: February 2024

Cet article interroge les effets de l’inclusion financière numérique (IFN) sur la productivité agricole partielle de la terre (PPT) d’un panel de 18 pays d’Afrique subsaharienne (ASS) choisi pour la période 2015-2020. Dans cette optique, les données secondaires ont fait l’objet d’une estimation effectuée à l’aide des méthodes des moments généralisés en panel dynamique (MMGPD). Les résultats obtenus montrent que l’IFN (mesurée par l’accès et l’utilisation des services financiers d’argent mobile) contribue significativement à la croissance de la PPT. Ces résultats suggèrent de stimuler la transformation agricole en ASS en promouvant des services financiers numériques en fonction des besoins des agriculteurs.
Les soutiens publics à l’agriculture et à l’alimentation
Authors: Tapsoba Abdoul Fattath , Brun Matthieu 
Published: February 2024

À partir de données issues de l’Observatoire mondial des soutiens publics à l’agriculture et à l’alimentation, cet article vise à analyser et comprendre le fonctionnement actuel des soutiens publics tout en évaluant dans quelle mesure ils sont effectivement orientés vers la promotion de systèmes agricoles durables. À l’aide d’une analyse d’économie politique des soutiens publics, nous montrerons au niveau global les différences de soutien et le manque d’outils et de dispositifs financés pour accélérer les transitions agricoles.
An integrated exploration of heat kernel invariant feature and manifolding technique for 3D object recognition system
Authors: Usha Subramaniam , Karthik Murugesan , Jothibasu Marappan , Gowtham Vijayaragavan 
Published: February 2024

Spectral Graph theory has been utilized frequently in the field of Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition to address challenges in the field of Image Segmentation and Image Classification. In the proposed method, for classification techniques, the associated graph's Eigen values and Eigen vectors of the adjacency matrix or Laplacian matrix created from the images are employed. The Laplacian spectrum and a graph's heat kernel are inextricably linked. Exponentiating the Laplacian eigensystem over time yields the heat kernel, which is the solution to the heat equations. In the proposed technique K-Nearest neighborhood and Delaunay triangulation techniques are used to generate a graph from the 3D model. The graph is then represented into Normalized Laplacian (NL) and Laplacian matrix (L). From each Normalized Laplacian and Laplacian matrix, the feature vectors like Heat Content Invariant and Laplacian Eigen values are extracted. Then, using all of the available clustering algorithms on datasets, the optimum feature vector for clustering is determined. For clustering various manifolding techniques are employed. In the suggested method, the graph heat kernel is constructed using industry-standard objects which are taken from the Engineering bench mark Data set.
Role of antiphospholipid antibodies in Covid-19 and its correlation with disease progression
Authors: Ibrahim Toqa M , Moussa Mohamed M , Nabih Nermeen A , Abdelfatah Rana G 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background
The SARS-CoV2 infection that leads to COVID-19 is a condition with an erratic and changeable course. The majority of patients have the mildest form, which frequently has flu-like symptoms so mild that the illness can go unnoticed. Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), progressive hypoxemia, and unilateral or bilateral pneumonia are among the severe manifestations that occur in about 15% of infected patients and may necessitate mechanical ventilation support. When systemic hyperinflammation is in its worst, multiple organs are affected (cytokine storm), lymphopenia is present, and levels of ferritin, D-dimers, C-reactive protein, chemokines and cytokines, are markedly elevated.

Aim of the work
To research the association between COVID-19 patient antiphospholipid (APL) markers and thrombotic events.

Patients and methodology
Our study was a cross-sectional study and patients were selected from ward and ICU unit in Dar El Shefa Hospital, Cairo governorate.

Results
Our study demonstrated that cases with risk factors for thromboembolic events had worse outcomes more frequently; obesity was a statistically significant factor in these differences. Additionally, we discovered that cases with cytokine storm had worse outcomes more frequently, and that the differences in thromboembolic events and deep venous thrombosis were statistically significant.

Conclusion
In COVID-19 pneumonia patients, the clinical significance of antiphospholipid syndrome (APAs) is still unknown. Furthermore, it is still unclear how long these APAs last and how much they contribute to thrombotic events in patients.
Recurrent Pneumonia in a Child: Identifying an Underlying Pulmonary Sequestration
Authors: Goswami Gauri , Bhatnagar Ruchika , Tandon Rajeev 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background:
Pulmonary sequestration is a rare foregut abnormality, accounting for a small percentage of lung malformations, with intralobar type being more common than extralobar.

Clinical Description:
A 10-year-old girl presented with recurring symptoms of breathlessness, cough, chest pain, and intermittent fever since 6 months of age. Earlier, she had been hospitalized four times in the past, and even received antitubercular treatment, but without any relief. Evaluation at our hospital revealed a cystic mass in the left lower lung with anomalous feeding vessels, leading to a diagnosis of pulmonary sequestration.

Management and Outcomes:
Surgical correction in the form of lobar resection and ligation of the feeding vessels was done. The patient’s symptoms significantly improved postoperatively, and there were no complications or recurrence during follow-up.

Conclusion:
Pulmonary sequestration is a rare abnormality. Misdiagnosis as a common respiratory infection can delay appropriate management. Surgical treatment through lobar resection can dramatically alleviate symptoms.
Clinical Features and Mutations in Children with Liddle Syndrome: A Systematic Review of Case Reports
Authors: Dev Vishnu , Jayan Jyotsna Aranakkal , Kumar Amber , Malik Shikha , Bhatt Girish Chandra 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background:
Liddle syndrome, an autosomal dominant condition, is a rare cause of hypertension, resulting from gain-of-function mutation in genes which encode the subunits of the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC).

Objective:
The present systematic review focuses on clinical features, genes involved, mutations, and pharmacological management.

Methods:
A comprehensive search was done in major databases, PubMed and Google Scholar using defined search terms encompassing case reports or case series on Liddle syndrome. The identified reports underwent screening by three different authors for inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Results:
In total, 44 cases were included from 35 articles. The median age of the children was 14 years, with a slightly higher proportion of males 63.63% (28/44). The most common clinical feature was hypertension (97.7%). Hypertension was controlled in all patients using ENaC channel blockers, amiloride, or triamterene.

Conclusion:
This is one of the first reviews collating data on Liddle syndrome. Mutations in SCNN1B were most common, with hypertension being the most consistent clinical feature.
Porphyria in an Adolescent Girl: A Clinician’s Quagmire
Authors: Varshney Jai Pratibha , Seth Atul 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background:
Porphyrias are a group of potentially life-threatening, metabolic disorders resulting from defective heme biosynthesis. They have a myriad of multisystem manifestations and pose a diagnostic and management challenge. Acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) is a severe and the most common form of porphyria. Awareness of this uncommon entity and a high index of suspicion are warranted for a successful outcome.

Clinical Description:
A 12-year-old girl was referred to us with a history of severe pain in the abdomen and generalized tonic-clonic seizures. She had episodic abdominal pain for the past 6 months associated with abnormal menstrual cycles. She had acutely raised blood pressure. She had urine was orange-pink in color, which led us to suspect a diagnosis of AIP. A urine examination confirmed the presence of porphobilinogen. On genetic testing, a pathogenic missense variation (c.518G>A) in exon 9 of the hydroxymethylbilane synthase (+) gene, which is autosomal dominant, was detected, which confirmed the diagnosis.

Management:
Seizures were treated with lorazepam and levetiracetam. Hypertension was managed with labetalol infusion followed by amlodipine. Tramadol was given for severe pain abdomen. Persistent severe hyponatremia (serum sodium 104 mEq/L) was initially managed with normal saline 3% saline and later, with fluids restriction.

Conclusion:
The diagnosis of AIP should be suspected, especially in pubertal girls who present more than once with persistent symptoms of acute abdomen, vomiting, hypertension, or symptoms linked to the menstrual cycle.
Defining the end point of drug therapy in tuberculosis of spine: Analysis of 76 cases in a tertiary care centre
Authors: Bhargava Aayush , Arora Rajesh , Dhammi Ish Kumar , Yadav Manish , Haq Rehan-Ul , Jain Anil K 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background:
The duration of chemotherapy for the tubercular spine is an unresolved issue. Various drug regimens have been used for various durations.

Objectives:
(1) To calculate the duration of antitubercular therapy (ATT) for achieving the healed status of the tubercular spine, (2) to report the behavior of kyphotic deformity, and (3) outcome of neurological deficit.

Materials and Methods:
This longitudinal descriptive study included 76 cases of tubercular spine diagnosed on clinico-imaging and/or on histopathology/molecular tests. They were treated as per the DOTS regime. Surgery was done for predetermined indications. ATT was stopped once healed status was demonstrated on CE-MRI/PET-CT. Kyphotic deformity was measured by modified Konstam’s method, and neurological grading was assessed by Tuli’s grading.

Results:
The mean duration of healing was 20.08 ± 8.09 months (range 9–48 months) in primary spinal TB with no recurrence after the mean follow-up of 15 months (range 3–108 months). Overall, 92.6% showed good neural outcomes at the final follow-up. Mean kyphotic deformity was found to be 16.75° ± 12.23°, 18.78° ± 12.62°, and 18.78° ± 12.53° at presentation, after stopping ATT and at the final follow-up.

Conclusion:
It is unscientific to stop ATT in spinal TB till healed status is demonstrated by contrast-enhanced MRI or PET-CT. Although the sample size is small, the data is enough to prove this point that if all patients were treated till healed status was achieved, there would be no recurrence.
An analysis of maxillary anterior teeth dimensions for the existence of golden proportion in the representative North Indian population
Authors: Handa Aashish , Bhullar Kanwalpreet Kaur , Sandhu Roohan Malhar 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Context:
Esthetic appearance of the face is a major concern in self-image among the majority of the population. The dimensions, anatomy, and arrangement of maxillary anterior are the key factors in the esthetic appearance of the face.

Aim:
The present study aimed to measure the mesiodistal dimensions of maxillary anterior teeth and analyzing the golden proportion in the representative North Indian population.

Materials and Methods:
Subjects were seated in the upright position in a dental clinical chair. A digital Vernier caliper was used to record the mesiodistal dimensions of central incisors (CIs), lateral incisor (LI), and canine (C) teeth in maximum smile position. A total of three sets of recordings were made by a single observer to avoid the measurement bias of both left and right sides of teeth. Digital images were also captured. Obtained measurements were used for the calculation of ratios and statistical analysis was done.

Results:
The prevalence of golden ratio between right CI/LI was observed in 3.1% males and 3.2% females. The calculated median ratio was 1.2 for males and 1.3 for females which differs significantly (P > 0.05) from the golden ratio. The divine proportion between visible portion of right C/LI was seen in 39.5% males and 32.3% females with calculated median value for males being 0.6 and that for females was 0.7.

Conclusion:
The prevalence of golden proportion between the CI/LI in esthetically pleasing smiles was too small (mean-3.9 in males and 2.75 in females) while the golden ratio of 0.6 was found in the majority of the population irrespective of the gender.
The incidence of dental fractures in the Italian population during the COVID-19 pandemic: An observational study
Authors: Abdellatif Dina , Iandolo Alfredo , Pisano Massimo , Fornara Roberto , Sangiovanni Giuseppe , Amato Massimo 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background:
The COVID-19 infection has become a pandemic after breaking out in China in the past months of 2019 and spreading rapidly worldwide. To counter this pandemic, several governments worldwide have taken several drastic measures to try to stop the spread of the virus, including a very strict lockdown that has caused a sudden and, in many cases, negative change in people’s daily lives. In the literature, several studies have shown how the pandemic has significantly impaired many people’s mental health, causing short- and long-term stress, anxiety, and sleep disturbances.

Introduction:
This study aims to analyze the correlation between the stress caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the parafunctions of the temporomandibular joint and masticatory muscles, which in turn, have led to an increase in the incidence of fractures and dental injuries. The ultimate goal is to understand the best choice the dentist must make in the preventive and therapeutic fields.

Materials and Methods:
A questionnaire called “Incidence of tooth fractures during the COVID-19 pandemic” was prepared using the Google® Forms platform. This questionnaire consists of 13 questions. This electronic questionnaire was addressed to all dentists in the Campania Region (ITA) and disseminated through social networks such as WhatsApp® or Facebook® or E-mail.

Results:
A total of 730 dentists completed the survey. Of these, 450 (61.7%) stated that the number of patients reporting muscle and joint pain in the morning had increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. 414 (56.7%) dentists noted an increase in parafunction and 392 (53.6%) an increase in dental fractures during the pandemic period.

Discussion and Conclusions:
As can be seen from the study results, an important correlation was found between the stress resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic and dental fractures. The dental elements treated endodontically, depending on the extent of the damage, require restoration, which is also the best preventive strategy in the case of dental fractures.
An in vitro comparison of calcium ions release and diffusion ability of calcium hydroxide-based intracanal medicament in combination with three different vehicles like propolis, chitosan, and propylene glycol
Authors: Thomas Pinku T. , Issac Jyoti Sumi , Girija Parvathy , Chandran Lekshmi S. , Arjun D. S. , Siddik A. J. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Context:
Calcium hydroxide, which is an intracanal medicament, is widely used in endodontics. Improvements can be made to its effectiveness, as calcium hydroxide is dependent on the vehicle.

Aim:
The study aims to compare and evaluate the release and diffusion ability of calcium hydroxide when mixed with – propolis, chitosan, and propylene glycol.

Methods:
For this study, 33 single-rooted extracted premolar teeth have been decoronated. After the working length and enlargement of the canals had been established, different preparations of calcium hydroxide with vehicles such as propolis, chitosan, and propylene glycol were loaded into the canals. Atomic absorption spectrophotometry was used to analyze the release of calcium ions in three groups, while a digital pH meter was used to determine an acid change.

Results:
Atomic absorption spectrophotometry showed sustained releases of calcium ions and the digital pH meter showed increased diffusion capacity in the propylene glycol paste group in comparison to the other two groups.

Conclusion:
Propylene glycol vehicle made it easier to enter calcium hydroxide into the dentinal tubules.
Is a mix – A fix? “A microscopic analysis of depth of penetration of three combinations of irrigants”
Authors: Sunanda Yantrapragada Lakshmi , Parvathaneni Krishna Prasad , Raju T. B. V. G. , Seshadri Abitha , Varma Nadimpalli Mahendra , Dondapati Gowtam Dev 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Aims:
The aim of the study is to evaluate the penetration depth of irrigants mixed with NaOCl into dentinal tubules at the apical third of the root canal using a confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM).

Materials and Methods:
Thirty-six single-rooted teeth were selected, decoronated, and straight-line access established. Then, the canal was enlarged with hand Protaper till size F3. The samples were divided randomly into three groups: Group 1 was irrigated with 3% NaOCl mixed with 1% phytic acid; Group 2 was irrigated with 3% NaOCl mixed with 18% etidronic acid; and Group 3 was irrigated with 3% NaOCl mixed with chitosan. The samples were subjected to CLSM evaluation. One-way analysis of variance with Tukey’s post hoc was used for statistical analysis.

Results:
Group 3 (NaOCl with chitosan) showed a greater depth of penetration in comparison to Groups 1 and 2.

Conclusion:
Within limitations, it can be concluded that chitosan, in combination with NaOCl can be used as an alternative to the current irrigation protocol.
Minimal intervention dentistry: What is its clinical application and effectiveness in different continents? – A scoping review
Authors: Perrone Beatriz Ribeiro , Bottesini Victor Cavallaro , Duarte Danilo Antonio 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
The aim of minimal intervention dentistry (MID) is to maximize the preservation of dental tissues through the use of modern and effective techniques and procedures. The central objective of MID is to increase the functional life of dental elements and, consequently, the quality of life of the population. The present study aimed to analyze and map the diffusion and clinical application of MID in different continents around the world. To perform this scoping review, the PRISMA checklist was used, adopting the following: population – dentists; concept – effectiveness of MID; and context – continents. The following databases were used: PubMed, European Archives of Paediatric Dentistry, Scientific Electronic Library, Latin Literature American and Caribbean Association in Health Sciences, and SCOPUS. The following keywords were used in the searches: “pediatric dentistry,” “atraumatic restorative treatment,” “dental caries,” “child health,” and “glass ionomer cements” using “and” and “or” combined with “minimal intervention dentistry.” Studies published before 2010 as well as theses, dissertations, opinion articles, editorials, and guidelines, were excluded from the study. A total of 160 articles were obtained, and 17 articles were screened and selected for full reading. The analysis of the studies reveals the disparity in the use of minimal intervention techniques among continents due to a lack of knowledge of these techniques or lack of confidence in changing professional approaches, thus emphasizing the need for the dissemination and teaching of MID.
Effect of various disinfectant solutions on the tensile strength of gutta-percha using the rapid sterilization technique
Authors: Rudranaik Sandeep , Nagashetty Yoganatha Hanasoge , Gowda Sahadev Chikmagarvalli Krishna , Jaganath Bharath Makonahalli , Nirmala K. B. , Gowda M. C. Bharath 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Context:
Gutta-percha (GP) gets contaminated during handling. It becomes imperative to ensure GP is sterile before placement in root canal space.

Aims:
The aim of the study was to evaluate and compare the tensile strength of GP treated with four different disinfectant solutions: 3% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), amla juice (AJ), Aloe vera (AV) juice, and pancha tulsi (PT).

Settings and Design:
The study design was an in vitro study.

Materials and Methods:
Fifty GP cones with a size of 30 were procured from sealed packages in five different groups. Experimental groups were disinfected for 1 min with 3% NaOCl, AJ, AV, and PT except the control group. Tensile and Brinell Testing Machine is used to measure the tensile strengths of GP.

Statistical Analysis Used:
Results were subjected to statistical analysis using the Kruskal–Wallis test followed by Dunn’s post hoc test.

Results:
The mean tensile strength values for Groups A, B, C, D, and E are 9.49 Mpa, 13.33 Mpa, 12.58 Mpa, 12.69 MPa, and 13.56 MPa, respectively. In the herbal disinfectant group, such as AJ, AV, and PT, the tensile strength was not significantly altered, whereas in the 3% NaOCl group, it was reduced considerably.

Conclusions:
AJ, AV juice, and PT as a GP disinfectant do not alter the tensile strength of GP cones.
The relationship between anxiety and academic identity and the motivation to study nursing and midwifery in the covid-19 pandemic: A structural model
Authors: Khoramirad Ashraf , Shojaei Sarallah , Ghaderi Heydar , Abedini Zahra 
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:
The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic had a great psychological effect on health service providers and students of related fields. The study aimed to investigate the relationship between COVID-19 anxiety and academic identity and the motivation to study nursing and midwifery during the COVID-19 pandemic.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:
In a cross-sectional study 221 nursing and midwifery students at—University of Medical Sciences in 2020 using census sampling were studied. The questionnaires were GADQ-7, the student’s academic identity standard questionnaire, the coronavirus anxiety scale, and academic motivation in nursing and midwifery. Pearson’s correlation coefficient, regression coefficient, and path analysis were used in statistical software AMOS (version 21) and SPSS (version 22).

RESULTS:
The results showed that motivation and anxiety with a significant overall effect of 0.43 and -0.36 were the main determining variables of academic identity respectively (P < 0.001). COVID-19 anxiety was recognized as responsible for 24% of the changes in motivation to study nursing (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS:
Academic identity and motivation to study nursing and midwifery have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The need for psychological attention in this situation is required for nursing and midwifery students.